Lighting Technician CV Example [+ A 2024 Illuminating Guide] - CV Plaza

Lighting Technician CV Example [+ A 2024 Illuminating Guide]

author Sobhan Mohmand, CV Writing Expert         date 4 Nov 2023

Are you looking to write your perfect Lighting Technician CV?

Lighting technicians play a crucial role in creating captivating visual experiences in various entertainment industries, from theatre and film to concerts and events.

Crafting an exceptional CV is vital to showcase your skills, qualifications and achievements in this specialised field. Your CV should not only highlight your technical abilities but also demonstrate your adaptability and creativity.

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the process step by step, offer valuable tips and provide you with real examples to help you create a standout CV that will illuminate your career prospects. Let’s begin!

Table of contents

CV Example

Oliver Reid

242 Gloucester Circus
Hertfordshire
HX7 4EA
Mob: 079 3451 8865       Email: [email protected]

Personal profile statement

I am a creative and ambitious Lighting Technician with two years of experience working for a major theatre and production company. My willingness to push the boundaries with every production coupled with my technical competence has enabled the company to host some of their most successful shows to date.

Achievements
  • Achieved a 2:1 degree in Lighting Design & Technology
  • In charge of lighting management at Encore Productions Ltd

Education
2010 – 2013BSc Lighting Design & TechnologyUniversity of WalesGrade achieved: [2:1]

Relevant Modules:

  • Introduction to Lighting Design & Technology
  • Networks and Control Applications
  • Studio Set Design and Execution
  • Entertainment Lighting Design
  • Advanced Control System Control for Lighting & Media

2009 – 2010
Results: English: A Mathematics: B Electronics: B
A LevelsHall Cross Sixth Form
2004 – 2008
Results: 8 GCSEs at Grades A-C.
GCSEsBath Secondary School

Work experience
Feb 2015- PresentLighting Technician         Encore Productions Ltd

Main duties performed:

  • Discussing with clients the lighting requirements for upcoming events
  • Helping to pack and unpack equipment before and after events
  • Assisting in the actual setting up of lighting equipment according to plans/drawings during different events, performances and shows
  • Planning the placement of lighting equipment to ensure safety and practicality
  • Operating the equipment according to the pre-determined plans during the show
  • Assisting the Set Designer with scene design
  • Assisting the Sound Engineers with setting up speakers and microphones
  • Monitoring current levels of equipment and ensuring its serviceability
  • Testing of all equipment before performances to ensure their workability
  • Repairing lighting equipment; electric sockets, bulbs, wiring, etc.
  • Researching and purchasing new equipment whenever needed
  • Assisting in the safe removal and packing of equipment after the show

Jan 2014 – Dec 2015Assistant Electrician         Fast Electricians

Main duties performed:

  • Shadowing the senior electricians in their day-to-day responsibilities
  • Assisting the senior Electricians in attending to electrical faults
  • Monitoring stock levels
  • Ordering in extra parts when necessary
  • Ensuring the serviceability of items in the warehouse
  • Performing general admin duties, including filing and photocopying

Qualifications
  • 2-day Technical Workshop – Association of British Theatre Technicians
  • Award in Communication Cabling – City & Guilds
  • Level 2 ECDL – BCS

Skills
  • Time Management skills: I have worked on three shows simultaneously which demonstrates that I can manage my time well and that I am capable of working on multiple projects at once, without compromising on performance.
  • Physically fit: Able to handle heavy tools, equipment, cables and wires while adhering to safety protocols at all times.
  • Techniques: I have experience in implementing dozens of different methods and techniques in which I use lighting to effectively enhance and alter the performance of a show or recording.
  • Team player: Able to work well in a team of other production professionals by successfully working to each other’s strengths and minimising disruptions.

Hobbies and interests

In my free time, I enjoy the weekly football sessions that I play with my colleagues and friends. I also enjoy going to the theatre, which has further increased my interest to work in this field and make a real difference in events, shows and performances.

References

Mr Peter Mills
Lighting Supervisor, Encore Productions Ltd
Address: 9 Gordon Rd, Surrey, SE8 1YY
Tel: 0773 5689 5999
Email: [email protected]
Mr Sam Vaughan
Manager, Fast Electricians Ltd
Address: 75 Gray St, Holt, H10 7XC
Tel: 0955 3245 0662
Email: [email protected]


Preview

Lighting Technician CV Template

Lighting Technician CV Template 2

What makes this CV good and effective?

  • Tailored to the job: The candidate tailors the CV to the lighting technician role by emphasising their relevant experience in lighting design, equipment operation and troubleshooting.
  • Ideal length: The CV is a suitable length (i.e. it does not exceeding two pages), offering a comprehensive overview of the candidate’s qualifications and experience without unnecessary details.
  • Logical layout: • The CV follows a clear and professional structure, starting with personal details, personal profile, work experience, qualifications, skills and references.
  • Chronological order: The candidate’s work experience and qualifications are listed in reverse chronological order, making it easy for the reader to see the candidate’s most recent and relevant roles first.
  • Clear language: The CV has a professional tone, avoiding jargon or technical terms that might be unclear to a non-specialist reader. This is very important because not all hiring managers will be familiar with the terminologies and jargon of the industry.
  • White space: The CV features a well-balanced use of white space, making it visually appealing and easy to navigate.

Download CV template

CV template


How to format your CV

  • Utilise a clear structure: Organise your CV into sections, such as personal details, personal profile, work experience, qualifications, skills and references, ensuring that it’s easy to navigate. Consider using a ready-made CV template from here and here.
  • Prioritise work experience: Place your work experience section near the top, as this is the most crucial aspect of your CV for a lighting technician role.
  • Highlight achievements: Include bullet points under each job role that showcase your accomplishments, like “Successfully executed complex lighting designs for a major theatre production.”
  • Quantify results: Where possible, use numbers to quantify your achievements, such as “Reduced equipment setup time by 25%.”
  • Avoid irrelevant details: Omit any information that isn’t directly related to the job, such as unrelated work experience or personal hobbies.
  • Check for errors: Proofread your CV thoroughly to eliminate any spelling or grammatical errors that may diminish its professionalism. Consider using an online grammar checker and/or ask a family member or friend to review your CV for you.

How to Write a Lighting Technician CV

Personal details

Your CV’s personal details section is where you provide essential information about yourself. It should include your full name, contact details (phone number and email address), and your address.

Make sure to double-check the accuracy of this information, as it is how potential employers will get in touch with you. Employers are busy people and it’s unlikely that they will keep trying to contact you if they fail in the first couple of attempts!

Example:
  • Ethan Clark
  • 12 Sheffield Lane, Manchester, M1 2DP
  • Mob: 07890 123456       Email: [email protected]

Personal profile

Your personal profile in a CV is your chance to introduce yourself to potential employers.

It’s a short paragraph that highlights your key strengths, experience and career goals.

This section is crucial because it provides employers with a snapshot of who you are and what you can offer, helping them quickly assess if you’re a good fit for the role.

If your personal profile is good, they will probably continue reading the rest of your CV. However, if it doesn’t grab their attention, they might quickly move on to other applicants, missing the chance to discover your full potential and what you can offer to the role. So, make sure your personal profile shines as it’s your first opportunity to make a strong impression.

Lighting technician personal profile example:

With over 5 years of experience as a Lighting Technician in the entertainment industry, I have demonstrated expertise in designing and executing complex lighting setups for major theatre productions. My proficiency in operating DMX lighting control systems has consistently delivered striking visual effects that enhance audience experiences. I excel in troubleshooting and maintaining equipment, ensuring seamless performances and events.

Achievements

In your CV’s achievements section, you highlight specific accomplishments and successes from your career, education or life that demonstrate your skills and contributions.

Read more: A list of best achievements to put on a CV.

Example:
  • Achieved a promotion to Lead Lighting Technician within 2 years due to outstanding performance and leadership skills.
  • Graduated with a First-Class Honours degree in Lighting Technology from a renowned university.
  • Implemented cost-effective lighting upgrades in a corporate setting, resulting in a 20% reduction in energy consumption.
  • Mentored junior lighting technicians, supporting their professional development and growth in the field.

Employment and work experience

The employment section of your CV summarises your work history, detailing your previous job roles, responsibilities and accomplishments.

Guidelines:

  • Start with your most recent job and work backwards.
  • Include job title, company name, dates of employment, and location.
  • Use action verbs to describe your responsibilities and achievements.
  • Focus on quantifiable results and specific accomplishments.
  • Tailor the section to match the Lighting Technician job requirements.
  • Keep the descriptions concise and to the point.

May 2018 – Present Lighting Technician         Starlight Productions

Main duties and responsibilities performed:

  • Designed and executed complex lighting setups for various theatre productions, enhancing the visual impact.
  • Efficiently operated and maintained DMX lighting control systems, contributing to seamless performances.
  • Collaborated with renowned lighting designers, ensuring the successful implementation of lighting concepts for major events.
  • Received accolades for troubleshooting and resolving critical lighting malfunctions during live broadcasts, preventing downtime.

Lighting technician duties to add to your CV

  1. Designing and implementing lighting schemes for diverse entertainment productions.
  2. Operating and maintaining lighting equipment, including control systems and fixtures.
  3. Collaborating with lighting designers and directors to execute their creative vision.
  4. Troubleshooting and resolving lighting system malfunctions during live events.
  5. Rigging and safely installing lighting fixtures and cabling.
  6. Conducting routine maintenance to ensure the optimal performance of lighting equipment.
  7. Adhering to safety protocols and regulations to create a secure working environment.
  8. Programming and controlling lighting cues to synchronise with performances or events.
  9. Training and supervising junior lighting technicians and crew members.
  10. Staying up-to-date with emerging lighting technologies and techniques to enhance performance quality.

Educational background

The education section of your CV provides information about your academic background, including details about the qualifications you’ve obtained and the institutions you’ve attended.

Include a range of qualifications, such as degrees, A-Levels, GCSEs, diplomas etc.

For each entry, you should include the name of the institution, the location, the dates of attendance and the qualifications you earned. Including a list of the subjects studied will be beneficial, too.

Example:
2016 – 2019 Bachelor of Arts in Lighting Design Brighton University Degree Classification: Second Class Honours (Upper Division).

Subjects Studied:

  • Lighting Technology and Techniques
  • Stagecraft and Production
  • Design Principles in Theatre
  • 2014 – 2016
    Results: Physics: A, Mathematics: B, Theatre Studies: A.
    A-Levels Brighton College

Professional training and qualifications

The professional training and qualifications section of your CV provides a comprehensive list of relevant courses, certifications and training you have completed, enhancing your qualifications for the lighting technician role.

You could include qualifications such as technical courses in lighting design, safety certifications, equipment operation training and any relevant industry-specific workshops you’ve completed to demonstrate your expertise in the field.

Example:
  • Level 4 Certificate in Lighting Technology – Lighting Institute of London
  • Health and Safety Executive (HSE) Certified – National Safety Authority
  • Advanced Rigging Techniques – Technical Training UK
  • DMX Lighting Control Course – British Lighting Association
  • First Aid at Work Certification – St. John Ambulance
  • Electrical Wiring Regulations (17th Edition) – City & Guilds
  • Fire Safety Awareness – British Safety Council

Skills and competencies

The skills section is where you showcase the specific abilities and expertise that make you a valuable candidate for the role.

This section should include technical skills, such as proficiency in lighting control systems (e.g., DMX), rigging techniques, and equipment operation.

It should also cover soft skills, like problem-solving, attention to detail, teamwork and adaptability, which are crucial for success in the field.

Additionally, you can mention any additional skills like knowledge of lighting software (e.g., GrandMA, ETC EOS), safety awareness and creativity in lighting design.

Example:
  • Technical skills: Proficient in DMX lighting control systems, with hands-on experience in programming complex lighting cues for live events and productions.
  • Safety and compliance: Exceptional safety awareness, consistently adhering to industry regulations and best practices to create a secure working environment for both crew and performers.
  • Communication and teamwork: Excellent communication skills, fostering effective collaboration with lighting designers, directors and fellow crew members to achieve the desired visual effects.

10 useful lighting technician skills to add to your CV

  1. Rigging techniques: Skilled in safely rigging and installing lighting fixtures, ensuring secure setups for performances.
  2. Equipment operation: Expertise in the operation of various lighting fixtures, consoles and accessories.
  3. Lighting design: Ability to create and implement visually appealing lighting schemes to enhance the atmosphere of productions and events.
  4. Problem-solving: Effective at troubleshooting and resolving lighting system malfunctions during live events.
  5. Creativity: A creative approach to lighting design, contributing to captivating visual effects.
  6. Technical knowledge: In-depth understanding of lighting technology and equipment, allowing for efficient operation and maintenance.
  7. Adaptability: The capacity to adapt to various lighting equipment and systems.
  8. Time management: Efficiently manage time and resources to meet production schedules and deadlines.
  9. Electrical knowledge: Understanding of electrical principles relevant to lighting systems.
  10. Maintenance: Conduct routine maintenance to ensure lighting equipment is in optimal condition.

Hobbies & interests

The hobbies and interests section of your CV is a brief overview of your personal interests and extracurricular activities, providing employers with insights into your personality and how you spend your time outside of work.

You might include hobbies such as “Amateur Theatre Acting” to showcase your creativity, public speaking skills and ability to work effectively in a team. Another example could be “Photography” to highlight your attention to detail, visual creativity and technical skills, which can be applicable to roles involving lighting and visual design.

Related: Best hobbies to include on a CV (examples).

Example:
Enthusiastic about photography and stage lighting design, with a passion for exploring innovative lighting techniques. A member of a local photography club, regularly experimenting with lighting effects to enhance visual storytelling.

Referees

In this section, you can provide the names and contact details of individuals who can vouch for your professional character, education and work history.

Typically, referees should be individuals who have directly supervised or worked with you, such as former managers, colleagues, teachers or mentors.

You should include their full name, job title, company name, email address and a contact phone number.

Related: How to write references for a CV.

Example:
Ian Reynolds
Technical Director, Starlight Productions
Address: 27 Sparkle Street, Manchester, M12 3AB
Tel: 01234 567890
Email: [email protected]
Wendy Ingram
Technical Supervisor, Spectrum Lighting
Address: 21 Milk Street, Liverpool, L6 1MN
Tel: 05555 112233
Email: [email protected]

Note: If you do not wish to disclose your references on your CV, you should write, “References are available upon request.”


Tips to make your CV more effective

  • Highlight key skills: Showcase your technical skills such as DMX programming, fixture maintenance and rigging expertise prominently in your CV. For example, “Utilise advanced DMX programming techniques to create dynamic lighting effects.”
  • Use industry terminology: Employ lighting industry terminology to demonstrate your familiarity with the field, e.g., “Proficient in using intelligent lighting fixtures.”
  • Include a tailored cover letter: Write a tailored cover letter for each application, explaining your passion for the role and your unique contributions.
  • Demonstrate passion: Convey your genuine passion for lighting design and your commitment to creating memorable experiences through impactful lighting solutions.
  • Commit to continuous learning: Demonstrate your commitment to staying updated with industry trends and technology, e.g., “Regularly attend lighting design workshops and seminars.”

Written by Sobhan Mohmand
Sobhan is a qualified Careers Advisor and Professional CV Writer with over 10 years of experience in helping job seekers get a job. He is a Member of the Careers Development Institute (CDI) and is listed on the official UK Register of Career Development Professionals. He holds a Level 6 Diploma in Career Guidance and Development (QCF).
lighting-technician

OVERVIEW

  • SALARY RANGE
    £15.000 – £25.000
  • ENTRY
    Relevant Work Experience
  • WORKING HOURS
    38+ hours per week

Competencies

  • Communication Skills
    Effectively communicating with other members of the production crew
  • Computing Skills
    Excellent knowledge and expertise in IT
  • Practical Skills
    Having hands-on experience with using media tools and equipment
  • Teamwork
    Working with people with diverse skill sets and different backgrounds
  • Problem Solving
    Excellent problem-solving skills to deal with issues or emergencies when required
  • Observation Skills
    Paying attention to every aspect of the task or project and taking action swift whenever required

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