Assistant Lighting Supervisor in WASHINGTON, District of Columbia at Washington Drama Society Inc

WHO WE ARE

Arena Stage is the voice of American theater resident in our nation's capital. Focused on American artists, our productions are innovative and representative of stories from across the country. We nurture new plays and reimagine classics. We celebrate our democracy and diversity through a multitude of voices in our productions and community engagement programs to inspire people to action.

WHAT WE VALUE

A work culture that values experimentation and collaboration.

Excellence in all aspects of our endeavor.

Diversity, Equity, Accessibility and Inclusion throughout the Organization and within our audience and the community.

Community Service through education and public engagement.

Lead effective partnerships and collaboration to serve artists and arts professionals.

WHAT YOU'LL DO

The Associate Lighting Supervisor supports the artistic and technical execution of all Arena Stage productions, events, and facility lighting needs. Working closely with the Lighting Supervisor, this position assists with the planning, installation, operation, maintenance, and administration of the Lighting Department. The Associate Lighting Supervisor provides technical expertise, supervises crews as needed, helps maintain lighting systems and equipment, and contributes to a safe, collaborative, and efficient production environment.

As a key member of the Production Department, you will help ensure the successful execution of Arena Stage productions and events by supporting all aspects of lighting operations. This role combines hands-on production work, technical maintenance, system administration, and team leadership. You will collaborate with designers, production staff, stagehands, and other departments to maintain high artistic and operational standards while helping the Lighting Department meet production deadlines and organizational goals.

• Assist with the implementation, installation, focus, maintenance, operation, and strike of lighting systems for productions, events, and facility needs.
• Prepare, maintain, and interpret lighting paperwork, plots, schedules, and other production documentation.
• Maintain and troubleshoot lighting fixtures, dimming systems, control consoles, networking infrastructure, and related equipment.
• Coordinate and participate in routine maintenance, repairs, inventory management, and equipment tracking.
• Assist with planning departmental workloads, project timelines, and production schedules to ensure deadlines are met.
• Supervise and provide guidance to lighting staff, overhire technicians, and stagehands during work calls and production activities.
• Support lighting operations for rentals, community events, donor functions, and other special events hosted by Arena Stage.
• Operate lighting control systems and provide production support during rehearsals, performances, and special events as assigned.
• Maintain accurate departmental records, inventories, maintenance logs, and technical documentation.
• Ensure compliance with safety procedures and industry best practices while promoting a safe and collaborative work environment.
• Serve as acting department lead in the absence of the Lighting Supervisor when necessary.
• Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Theatre Technology, Lighting Design, Technical Production, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
• Demonstrated experience in theatrical lighting production, system maintenance, and crew leadership.
• Working knowledge of ETC EOS consoles, ETC dimming systems, DMX distribution, networking protocols, and automated lighting equipment.
• Ability to read and interpret lighting plots, technical drawings, and production documentation.
• Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and industry-standard lighting software.
• Ability to work evenings, weekends, and irregular hours based on production schedules.
• Ability to safely lift and move equipment up to 50 pounds and work at heights using ladders, personnel lifts, and catwalk systems.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in a LORT, regional, or professional performing arts environment.
• ETC Certification or advanced lighting systems training.
• Experience with Vectorworks, Lightwright, and networking management tools.
• Experience supervising crews and coordinating multiple concurrent projects.