Lighting

What does a lighting technician do? – Tasks and work environment

A lighting technician is responsible for designing and managing lighting for stage productions, concerts, film and TV recordings, and other events where lighting plays a crucial role in mood and visual expression. Tasks include both artistic design of lighting and practical work with installing, programming, and controlling lighting equipment. Daily work often involves close collaboration with directors, set designers, technicians, and other creative roles. The work environment can vary greatly – from theaters and TV studios to outdoor stages and tours – with work often during inconvenient hours, including evenings and weekends. Safety procedures and physical stamina are important, as the work frequently involves working at heights and handling heavy equipment.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salaries for lighting technicians have shown a clear upward trend. In 2022, the average salary was 35,100 SEK per month, increasing to 35 500 SEK in 2023. The most significant increase occurred between 2023 and 2024, when the average salary rose to 38 600 SEK, representing an increase of approximately 8.7% over two years. This positive salary trend can partly be linked to increased demand in the culture and event sector, as well as technological developments requiring broader skills among lighting technicians. An increase in large events and productions has also contributed to raising salary levels, especially in the private sector where competition for experienced lighting technicians is fierce.

Lighting technician salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 38 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 33,600 SEK/month (female), 36,100 SEK/month (male)
• Highest salary: 40,300 SEK/month (female), 43,700 SEK/month (male)
• Hourly wage (average): 232 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 37 300 SEK, men 38 800 SEK – women earn 96% of men's salaries
• Regional differences: No specific data available, but metropolitan areas tend to offer higher salaries

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a lighting technician often involves a combination of technical studies, artistic education, and practical experience. Many professionals have post-secondary education in lighting design or stage and event technology, often supplemented with internships or trainee positions to build relevant experience. Continuous education in new technical systems and digital lighting consoles is common, as the industry develops rapidly.

• Post-secondary education: Lighting design or stage and event technology (1–3 years)
• Certifications: Courses in electrical safety, rigging, and advanced lighting control
• Internships: Strongly recommended during education
• Prerequisites: Basic technical understanding and interest in aesthetics
• Further education: Courses in digital lighting control and new technology

Common benefits and compensations

Lighting technicians are often offered benefits such as overtime pay for work in evenings and on weekends, wellness allowances, opportunities for skill development, and insurance through collective agreements. Larger productions may also provide travel allowances and per diems, especially when working in different locations or on tours.

Competition and challenges

Competition for the most attractive lighting assignments is intense, especially in larger cities where many productions take place. Challenges include the pace and irregular hours often associated with the profession, as well as the need to stay updated on new technology and working methods. The availability of permanent positions is limited, meaning many work freelance or on a project basis. The industry’s sensitivity to economic fluctuations, along with periods of low production, can affect job security. At the same time, the profession requires high flexibility and resilience to handle rapid changes and work under pressure.

Tips for aspiring lighting technicians

To succeed as a lighting technician, it’s good to combine technical curiosity with a creative mindset. A strong interest in both technology and aesthetics provides a solid foundation, so early practical experience through internships or volunteer work at smaller venues is recommended. Precision and problem-solving skills are crucial, especially when technical challenges arise during productions. Being communicative and collaborative facilitates teamwork with other departments and helps in understanding the director’s vision. Flexibility and resilience are needed to handle irregular hours and quick changes, and ongoing education in new lighting systems increases opportunities for interesting assignments.

Key facts about lighting technicians

• Education level: Post-secondary education 1–3 years most common
• Work arrangement: Often project-based or freelance employment
• Average salary: 38 600 SEK/month
• Gender distribution: Women earn 96% of what men do
• Available jobs: 620 within the lighting, sound, and stage technology sector

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, there are good opportunities to advance to roles such as chief lighting technician, technical coordinator, or lighting designer for larger productions. Some choose to specialize in areas like digital lighting control or work internationally. Forecasts from the Employment Service show no precise assessment for lighting technicians due to limited data, but within the lighting, sound, and stage technology sector, about 620 jobs are reported. Future prospects are influenced by the industry’s economic cycle and developments within culture, media, and events, where technical skills and experience remain highly valued.

Frequently asked questions about lighting technicians

• What does a lighting technician earn?
  - A lighting technician has an average monthly salary of 38 600 SEK, with variations depending on experience, employer, and region.
• What is the highest salary for a lighting technician?
  - The highest salary is 43,700 SEK for men and 40,300 SEK for women, often within the private sector and with post-secondary education.
• What education is required to become a lighting technician?
  - Post-secondary education in lighting design or stage and event technology, typically 1–3 years, is most common.
• Are there differences between men and women in the profession?
  - Yes, women earn on average 96% of what men do within the profession.
• What is the job market like for lighting technicians?
  - There are approximately 620 available jobs within the sector, but no exact forecast for lighting technicians specifically.
• What is the work environment like for lighting technicians?
  - The work environment is varied and can involve indoor and outdoor work, often during inconvenient hours.
• What qualities are important for a lighting technician?
  - Technical knowledge, creativity, problem-solving skills, and flexibility are especially important qualities.