What are the responsibilities and job description for the Lighting (AV) Department Manager - Live Event Production (Phoenix, AZ) position at Hardwired Production?
We are a Live Event Production Company based in Phoenix, AZ.
Experience in live event production is MANDATORY to this position, and compensation will be dependent on experience.
Our future Lighting Department Manager will own the day-to-day operation of the lighting department - from warehouse prep and system readiness to equipment management and department operations.
This is a primarily warehouse-based role, combining technical audio expertise, team leadership, and operational thinking. On-site involvement is provided as needed for troubleshooting and critical technical support.
What You’ll Do
- Oversee lighting prep, maintenance, inventory, repairs, and quality control, ensuring systems are tested, configured, and show-ready
- Plan event lighting systems and packages, including fixture selection, DMX addressing and patching, power distribution, lighting network configuration (sACN/Art‑Net), console programming, rigging plots, and full lighting deployment
- Build and improve SOPs, workflows, and department processes to increase efficiency and consistency
- Collaborate with other department heads to support multiple projects and event needs
- Provide on-site deployment, system checks, tuning, troubleshooting, and technical leadership for critical events
- Stay current with lighting technology and ensure the department maintains reliable, professional production standards
- Lead, develop, and schedule lighting technicians, warehouse staff, and freelancers; set priorities and drive accountability
What Sets You Apart
- You’re a technical leader, not just a great technician
- You bring structure and accountability without micromanaging
- You’re proactive about solving problems before they become show-day problems
- You can balance people, equipment, deadlines, and multiple projects
- You’re hands-on when needed and focused on building a strong, independent team
What You Bring
- 5 years of live event production experience, showing your passion for lighting
- Experience leading teams and managing warehouse or production workflows
- Expert-level knowledge of professional live event lighting systems, fixtures, power distribution, DMX addressing and patching, advanced lighting network protocols (sACN/Art‑Net), and modern lighting consoles
- Strong troubleshooting, organizational, and problem-solving skills
- Experience with inventory systems such as Flex is a plus
- Valid driver’s license
Pay: $30.00 - $50.00 per hour
Expected hours: 30.0 – 50.0 per week
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
- When would you be available to start this position?
- What is your favorite part of Live Event productions?
Experience:
- FLEX: 1 year (Preferred)
- LIGHTING / LIGHTING DESIGN (Live events): 5 years (Required)
- TEAM LEADING: 2 years (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $30 - $50