Director of Lighting

Access Audio•Cincinnati, OH

1d•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a full-time Director of Lighting to lead and grow our lighting department. This is not a “keep the lights on” position. It’s a build-and-lead role. You will serve as the on-site lighting director and programmer for live events while also developing the systems, internal strategy, and team structure that will allow the department to scale. You will be a key leader in our organization and will have a major voice in how Access Audio’s lighting services evolve. For events where lighting is the primary discipline, the Director of Lighting may serve in a production management role. You will advance the event with the client, define lighting scope, quote lighting-only event packages, coordinate staffing and logistics, and lead execution from pre-production through strike. You will quarterback lighting-driven projects, ensuring crew structure, schedules, and pricing align with client goals while maintaining Access Audio’s high standards for quality, safety, and professionalism. Access Audio is in a season of rapid growth. That means there is real opportunity here, but it also means we are still building structure as we grow. If you enjoy taking initiative, creating systems, and building something meaningful alongside a team, you’ll thrive in this role. This position reports to the Director of Production.

Requirements

Minimum two years of recent lighting design and technology experience across a variety of event venues
Demonstrated ability to independently set up and tear down lighting systems
Experience leading and developing other A/V/L team members
Strong knowledge of entertainment lighting, event power distribution, and rigging systems
Proficiency in Vectorworks for drafting lighting plots, designs, and renderings
Ability to tech and maintain lighting inventory, including moving lights. Perform basic repairs and routine maintenance in-house. Facilitate outside repair of larger issues.
Experience with LED wall products and their interface with lighting
Familiarity with GrandMA and HOG, as well as other lighting platforms
Working knowledge of live event production logistics
Mac and PC file management and system familiarity
Highly organized with exceptional attention to detail
Self-starter who can work independently and solve problems quickly
Strong communicator with team members, clients, and vendors
Adaptable and steady under pressure in live production environments
Builder mindset: you enjoy creating systems, improving processes, and driving progress
Humble, service-oriented, and team-first
Alignment with and passion for Access Audio’s mission
Commitment to “The Hills We Die On”
Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record
Ability to drive a non-CDL 24 foot box truck
Ability to operate a fork truck
Availability to work weekdays, weekends, and some evenings
Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
Ability to climb ladders and stairs
Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
Ability to pass a basic background check

Responsibilities

Lead the day-to-day direction of the lighting department
Build and refine procedures for prep, load-in, show execution, strike, and return-to-service
Develop training processes and help recruit and mentor lighting technicians
Establish and maintain department standards for quality, safety, and organization
Recommend and plan future lighting inventory purchases based on company needs and strategy
Improve systems for shop workflow, equipment tracking, and maintenance
Advance lighting needs directly with clients, including run of show, staffing, arrival times, power requirements, and venue logistics. The ability to communicate with humans is a must.
Translate creative vision into executable lighting plans. The ability to take existing lighting inventory and come up with fresh looks is key.
Analyze lighting and rigging plots and proactively resolve potential issues
Interface directly with production managers, technical directors, stage managers, and clients
Provide creative design ideas during preproduction, setup, and rehearsals
Ensure lighting elements are executed safely, professionally, and at a high standard.
Hang, focus, patch, program, and operate lighting systems for live events. The ability to run a crew of people is the focus here.
Serve as on-site lighting director or technician as required
Operate a variety of lighting consoles and fixtures, including rented systems
Maintain a calm, solutions-oriented presence in live production environments
Prep, test, and pack lighting equipment for rentals and shows. We’re looking for impeccable lighting inventory.
Anticipate contingencies and ensure order accuracy
Inspect, test, and return equipment to service following events
Perform preventative maintenance and facilitate repairs
Help prioritize and delegate daily workflow to maximize productivity