Light Board Operator / Technician

Position Summary:

The Light Board Operator / Technicianis responsible forassistingwith the installation, programming, operation, and strike of lighting systems for assigned productions at The Ruth and Nathan Hale Theater. This role works closely with the Lighting Designer, Stage Management, and the Lighting & Media team to support the artistic vision of each production while ensuring safe, reliable, and consistent execution during rehearsals and performances.When applicable, this role may collaborate with the Lighting & Media team to support cue-based media integration as defined forthe production.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Lighting Install & Strike

• Assistwith the hang, circuiting, addressing, focus, and strike of lighting equipment under the direction of the Master Electrician or Head of Lighting & Media, as scheduled.

• Support the Lighting & Media team inmaintainingan organized, safe, and efficient lighting workspace during load-in, rehearsals, andstrike.

• Follow installation plans, paperwork, and task assignments provided for the production to ensure safe and consistent execution.

• Assistwith loading, unloading, andproperly storinglighting equipment before and afterproductions.

• Adhere to all safety protocols related to electrical systems, ladders, lifts, and theatrical work environments.

Programming &Pre-Production

• Program all lighting cues in the lighting console based on the Lighting Designers specifications.

• Build and organize cue structures, palettes, effects, and show files in a clear, repeatable format.

• Participate in lighting focus, paper tech, dry tech, and cueing sessions as scheduled.

• Prepare and backup showfiles according to department standards.

• Assistin troubleshootingconsole, network, or software issues in collaboration with the Lighting & Media team.

Rehearsals & Performances

• Operate the lighting console for all assigned technical rehearsals, dress rehearsals, and performances.

• Execute lighting cues accurately and consistently in coordination with the Stage Managers calls.

• Make approved cue adjustments or updates as needed during tech, rehearsals, or previews.

• Maintain consistent cue timing, levels, and transitions across performances.

Collaboration & Communication

• Work collaboratively with the Lighting Designer to implement notes, changes, and refinements.

• Communicate clearly with Stage Managementregardingcue timing, holds, or technical concerns.

• Coordinate with the Lighting & Media departmentregardingconsole setup, maintenance, and strike.

• Perform other related duties as assigned in support of thedepartment.

Safety & Professional Standards

• Follow all theater safety protocols related to electrical equipment and console operation.

• Maintain a clean,organized, andsecure programming and operating workspace.

• Represent the theater with professionalism, reliability, and respect for artists and staff.

Media Integration(When Applicable)

• Support basic media or projection programming when assigned, including triggering media cues from the lighting console or associated playback software.

• Collaborate with the Lighting Designer, Media Designer, and Lighting & Media department to implement approved media cues.

• Media responsibilities will be communicated in advance and are dependent on the scope and needs ofthe individualproduction.

Skills and Qualifications:

• Demonstrated experience programming and operating theatrical lighting consoles; experience with ETC EOS family consoles
  strongly preferred.

• Working knowledge of theatrical lighting systems, including dimming, DMX, networking basics, and cue execution.

• Ability to read and interpret lighting plots, channel hookups, magic sheets, cue sheets, and designer paperwork.

• Strong understanding of cue structure, timing, fades, effects, and transitions in a live performance environment.

• Highly detail-oriented, with the ability tomaintainclean, well-organized show files and consistent execution across performances.

• Comfortable making real-time adjustments during technical rehearsals and performances as directed by the Lighting Designer or Stage Management.

• Strong communicationskills and the ability to collaborate effectively with designers, stage management, and technical staff.

• Ability to work calmly and accurately under pressure during long technical rehearsals and live performances.

• Reliable, punctual, and able to manage time effectively in a production-driven schedule.

• Ability to sit or stand at a lighting console for extended periods andmaintainfocus in low-light environments.

• Ability to respond quickly and decisively to live cue calls and unforeseen technical issues.

• Mustbe comfortable working evenings, weekends, and extended technical rehearsal periods.

• Familiarity with safetybestpractices related to electrical equipment and theatrical environments.

Schedule & Time Commitment

• Attendance required for scheduled lighting focus, technical rehearsals, dress rehearsals, and performances.

• Programming and tech schedules vary by production and will be communicated in advance.

• Evening and weekend availabilityisrequired.