LIGHTING TECHNICIAN (broadcasting) JOB

Lighting technicians set up and operate lighting equipment under the supervision of a lighting director or lighting camera operator in television, or a gaffer or director of photography in film, high-budget television drama and commercials. At entry level, job titles include (apprentice) lighting technician, lighting electrician or lighting assistant. In film, more experienced technicians can specialise as a moving light operator, practical light operator, gunny operator, console operator, or take a supervisory post as 'best boy'.

The lighting team's work is crucial to any performance or programme. Lighting creates the right atmosphere to evoke an audience's response and demands high-level technical and creative skills. Depending on the production you are working on and your particular experience, you may be involved in all or some of the activities outlined below with the director and/or other staff to interpret their creative vision into the lighting design. Managing the lighting budget advising on the purchase/hire of suitable equipment.

Visiting and assessing locations for technical purposes. Conducting risk assessments for health and safety purposes. Establishing lighting requirements. Plotting the lighting deciding on crew numbers and equipment needed. Employing the crew and hiring equipment. Co-ordinating the equipment and the technical crew. Training other crew members as required. Assembling all the lighting and filter equipment needed. Ensuring all lighting equipment is in working order. Organising scaffolding and cranes, if required pre-rigging the lighting.

Ensuring all cables and wires are safely concealed. Loading automated colour change systems. Programming and operating lighting consoles. Supervising the focusing of lighting at rehearsals. Operating and maintaining equipment during the shoot. Changing lighting between shots, as necessary. De-rigging all equipment at the end of the broadcast/production ensuring all equipment is stored/transported back safely from location. Reviewing footage shots with the director with the floor manager, producer and sound technician throughout the project.