Lighting technician

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

Lighting technicians work on planning, installing, and controlling lighting for concerts, theater performances, TV productions, and other events. Tasks include rigging and programming advanced lighting consoles, as well as collaborating closely with directors, set designers, and sound technicians to create the desired atmosphere on stage. The work often takes place in varied environments – from large stages and arenas to smaller cultural centers and outdoor events – and involves both day and evening shifts, sometimes including weekends. Physical ability and safety awareness are central to the work environment, as it often involves working at heights and heavy lifting under time pressure.

Salary development over time

Lighting technicians have experienced clear positive salary growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 35,100 SEK per month, which increased to 35 500 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary has risen further to 38 600 SEK, representing an increase of nearly 10% over a three-year period. This rise can largely be explained by increased demand for skilled lighting technicians as the event industry recovers after the pandemic and technical expertise becomes even more important. The market is characterized by a combination of technical requirements and the need for flexibility, which has helped push up salary levels, especially for experienced technicians.

Lighting technician salary – comprehensive 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
• Women earn: 96% of men's salary (37 300 SEK/month compared to 38 800 SEK/month)
• Regional differences: Salary levels can vary depending on location and employer, but larger cities and event centers often offer slightly higher wages.

Education and qualifications

To work as a lighting technician, a high school education in electrical and energy programs with a focus on event technology is usually required, or equivalent post-secondary education. Practical experience is highly valued, and it is common to supplement with courses in lighting design, stage production, or safety. The industry also accommodates self-taught individuals, but formal education and certifications increase employment opportunities and higher salaries.

• High school education: Electrical and energy program, with a focus on event technology (3 years)
• Post-secondary courses: Lighting design, stage production (1–2 years)
• Certifications: Working at heights, electrical safety
• Internship: Common and valuable for gaining experience
• Prerequisites: Technical interest and some physics knowledge are needed

Common benefits and compensations

Lighting technicians are often covered by collective agreements that provide benefits such as overtime pay, evening and weekend supplements, and pension schemes. Other common benefits include wellness allowances, work clothing, and opportunities for further training in technology and safety. In some cases, insurance and discounts on equipment or event tickets are also offered.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs in lighting technology is relatively high, especially in metropolitan regions where demand for large events is greatest. Seasonal variations and project-based employment mean that workload can fluctuate significantly throughout the year. Technological developments require continuous skills updates and the ability to handle new control systems and digital tools. Physical work environment, irregular hours, and sometimes heavy lifting pose additional challenges that require endurance and good health.

Tips for aspiring lighting technicians

To succeed as a lighting technician, it is good to combine technical interest with a problem-solving attitude and a creative mind. Being precise and methodical during installation and troubleshooting reduces the risk of errors during live productions. Flexibility and stress tolerance are important traits, as the work often demands quick adjustments and late shifts. Building a network within the industry and showing initiative by taking on extra tasks or further education is also valuable. Good teamwork and communication skills facilitate collaboration with directors and other technicians, while an eye for detail helps create the right atmosphere on stage. Finally, staying updated on new technology and seizing internship or project opportunities to gain experience pays off.

Key facts about Lighting Technicians

• Education level: High school or post-secondary courses
• Work environment: Varied, often stage, studio, or outdoor environment
• Common employment type: Project-based or freelance
• Number of job openings: 620 within the profession (May 2024)
• Gender salary distribution: Women earn 96% of men's salary

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a lighting technician can advance to more specialized roles such as lighting designer or technical coordinator, or move into project management for larger event productions. Opportunities also exist to work internationally on touring productions or at major theaters and TV stations. According to the Employment Service's forecast, no specific assessment is made for lighting technicians due to limited data, but the fact that there are 620 job openings suggests a certain demand. Technological development and increased digitalization may create new areas of work and specialization for those willing to further their education and keep pace with the industry's rapid changes.

Frequently asked questions about Lighting Technicians

• What is the average salary of a Lighting Technician?
  - The average salary for a lighting technician is 38 600 SEK per month.
• How does the salary difference between men and women look?
  - Women earn an average of 37 300 SEK, which is 96% of men's salary (38 800 SEK).
• What education is required to become a lighting technician?
  - The most common is a high school education in electrical and energy programs, often supplemented with post-secondary courses or certifications.
• Are there significant regional salary differences?
  - Salaries vary somewhat depending on location, with higher levels in larger cities and at major events.
• What is the job market like for lighting technicians?
  - Currently, there are 620 job openings within the profession, but no precise forecast is provided by the Employment Service.
• What are the main challenges in the profession?
  - Irregular working hours, physical strain, and the need for ongoing technical skills development are common challenges.