Lighting technician

What does a Lighting Technician do? – Tasks and work environment

A Lighting Technician works with planning, installation, operation, and maintenance of lighting in various environments such as theaters, concert halls, TV studios, event venues, and sometimes within construction and property sectors. The role involves close collaboration with lighting designers, set designers, and technicians from related fields to create the right lighting environment and atmosphere for different productions or settings. Tasks include both technically advanced work like programming lighting consoles and simpler practical tasks such as mounting and troubleshooting fixtures. The work environment can be diverse and physically demanding, often involving working at heights, under time pressure, and with irregular hours depending on the projects.

Salary development over time

Lighting Technicians have experienced clear salary growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 35,100 SEK per month and increased slightly to 35 500 SEK in 2023. Between 2023 and 2024, there was a more significant increase to 38 600 SEK, corresponding to a growth of approximately 8.7% during this period. This positive salary trend can be partly explained by increased demand for technical skills in the event and cultural sectors, as well as a general move towards more advanced lighting control and digitalization. The salary increase is also driven by greater competition for qualified personnel and higher requirements for education and certifications in the field.

Lighting Technician salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 38 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 33,600 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 43,700 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 232 SEK
• Men (average): 38 800 SEK
• Women (average): 37 300 SEK
• Women’s salary as % of men’s: 96%
• Regional differences: Data unavailable

Education and qualifications

To work as a Lighting Technician, a post-secondary education in lighting, sound, or stage technology is usually required, often combined with practical experience in the industry. Many employers demand documented technical competence and sometimes specific certifications depending on the workplace and responsibilities. The educational path can vary, and there are several opportunities for specialization within different technical areas based on interest and labor market needs.

• Post-secondary education: YH program in lighting, sound, and stage technology (1.5–2 years)
• Certifications: Courses in electrical safety and lighting control
• Internship: Often mandatory practical training or trainee period during education
• Prerequisites: High school diploma, preferably from Electrical and Energy program or Arts program
• Further education: Opportunities for specialization via online courses and industry training

Common benefits and compensations

Lighting Technicians are often offered benefits such as overtime pay for evening and weekend work, wellness allowances, work clothing, and sometimes opportunities for further training at the workplace. Some employers also provide access to technical equipment for home use, as well as insurance and pension contributions according to collective agreements.

Competition and challenges

The competition within the profession of Lighting Technician varies depending on the region and the economic situation in the event and cultural sectors. Since the profession requires both technical skills and practical experience, it can be difficult for recent graduates to secure permanent positions immediately. Rapid technological changes and digitalization demand continuous skills development. Irregular working hours, physically demanding environments, and occasional high workload are other challenges that can affect both work environment and work-life balance.

Tips for aspiring Lighting Technicians

To succeed as a Lighting Technician, a combination of technical interest, creativity, and good teamwork skills is beneficial. Gaining practical experience early through internships or involvement in school projects and events provides an advantage in job hunting. Precision during installations and troubleshooting is crucial, as is flexibility during rapid changes in productions. Staying updated with new technologies and lighting systems via courses or industry seminars is an investment in the future. Good communication skills facilitate collaboration with other technicians and production teams. Finally, initiative and problem-solving abilities are highly valued, especially when facing unexpected technical challenges.

Key facts about Lighting Technicians

• Education level: Post-secondary YH program (1.5–2 years)
• Work environment: Events, theater, TV studios, and construction projects
• Typical employment: Project-based or permanent
• Demand: 620 available jobs within the profession
• Special skills: Lighting programming and electrical safety

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years in the profession, opportunities exist to advance to roles such as lighting designer, technical project manager, or supervisor in larger productions. Some choose to specialize in digital lighting control, programming, or education. According to the Employment Service, no specific forecast is made for Lighting Technicians due to limited data, but within the broader group of lighting, sound, and stage technicians, demand remains and 620 jobs have been identified. However, the profession is influenced by economic cycles and the development of the event industry, which can lead to periods of variation in job availability and projects.

Frequently asked questions about Lighting Technicians

• What does a Lighting Technician earn?
  - A Lighting Technician has an average salary of 38 600 SEK per month.
• How has the salary development been for Lighting Technicians?
  - The salary has increased from 35,100 SEK (2022) to 38 600 SEK (2024), which corresponds to an increase of approximately 8.7%.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  - Yes, women earn on average 96% of men's salaries in the profession.
• What education is required to become a Lighting Technician?
  - A post-secondary YH education in lighting, sound, or stage technology is recommended, often combined with practical experience.
• What is the work environment like for a Lighting Technician?
  - The work environment is varied and can involve working at heights, irregular hours, and physically demanding tasks.
• What are the future prospects for Lighting Technicians?
  - The profession is part of a broader occupational group with 620 available jobs, but no specific forecast is provided by the Employment Service.
• What benefits are common in the profession?
  - Common benefits include overtime pay, wellness allowances, work clothing, and opportunities for further training.