Senior Lighting Designer (Concerts & Events)

Placements24; Randfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Lighting Designer to lead lighting design for concerts, festivals, and large-scale events. Located in Rustenburg, the role blends creative concepting with technical execution across global stages and tours.

The ideal candidate brings 8+ years in lighting design, strong software proficiency, and a passion for visual storytelling through light. This contractor role offers a competitive rate and opportunities to work with world-class artists.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Theatre Design, Lighting Design, Fine Arts, or related field, or equivalent extensive experience.
• 8+ years of professional experience in concert and event lighting design with a strong portfolio.

Responsibilities

• Conceptualize and design innovative lighting systems for concerts, festivals, corporate events, and theatre productions.
• Create detailed lighting plots, cue sheets, and renderings using design software.
• Specify lighting fixtures, equipment, and control systems, ensuring compatibility and adherence to budgets.
• Collaborate closely with directors, production managers, stage managers, and other creative personnel.
• Oversee the installation, programming, and operation of lighting systems during rehearsals and live events.
• Troubleshoot technical issues swiftly and effectively during show run.
• Mentor junior lighting designers and technicians.

Tools

Vectorworks Spotlight

WYSIWYG

Capture

GrandMA

Hog

Job description

About the Role

An internationally recognized event production company is seeking a Senior Lighting Designer for concert tours and large-scale events. Based out of Rustenburg, North West, this role requires a visionary artist to conceptualize, design, and oversee the implementation of lighting schemes that transform venues and captivate audiences. The ideal candidate possesses a unique blend of technical expertise in lighting technology and a powerful artistic sense, capable of creating breathtaking visual experiences. This position offers the chance to work with world-class artists and crews, contributing to unforgettable performances across various global stages and within Rustenburg's own event landscape.

Key Responsibilities

• Conceptualize and design innovative lighting systems for concerts, festivals, corporate events, and theatre productions.
• Create detailed lighting plots, cue sheets, and renderings using design software.
• Specify lighting fixtures, equipment, and control systems, ensuring compatibility and adherence to budgets.
• Collaborate closely with directors, production managers, stage managers, and other creative personnel.
• Oversee the installation, programming, and operation of lighting systems during rehearsals and live events.
• Troubleshoot technical issues swiftly and effectively during show run.
• Mentor junior lighting designers and technicians.
• Stay current with emerging lighting technologies, trends, and sustainable practices.
• Manage project timelines and communicate effectively with clients and stakeholders in Rustenburg and beyond.
• Ensure all designs meet safety regulations and technical rider requirements.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Theatre Design, Lighting Design, Fine Arts, or a related field, or equivalent extensive experience.
• A minimum of 8 years of professional experience in concert and event lighting design, with a robust portfolio showcasing diverse projects.
• Proficiency in lighting design software such as Vectorworks Spotlight, WYSIWYG, or Capture.
• In-depth knowledge of various lighting fixtures, dimming systems, moving lights, and control consoles (e.g., GrandMA, Hog).
• Strong understanding of color theory, composition, and visual storytelling through light.
• Experience with LED technology, projection mapping, and other advanced lighting techniques.
• Ability to work under pressure, travel extensively, and adapt to changing production needs.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to make critical decisions in live environments.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills for effective team collaboration and client relations, particularly within the North West region.
• Experience in sustainable event design practices is advantageous.

Benefits

This is a contractor role offering a competitive rate, commensurate with experience and project scope. While remote work is the primary mode for design, on-site work during tours and events will be required. This position provides the opportunity to work with a leading production company, collaborate with high-profile artists, and gain exposure to global productions. We offer a stimulating creative environment and the chance to shape unforgettable visual spectacles. Join our team and illuminate the world from Rustenburg.