On Tour Lighting Director/Operator

This is a Freelance Job

Lighting Director/Operator for Thorn Fall 25 Tour

Job Title: Lighting Lead (LD/L1) - The Thorn National Tour

Job Description:
The Thorn is seeking a skilled and experienced Lighting Director (LD) to join our national touring production. This role requires both technical expertise and creative sensitivity, as the LD will serve as crew chief during load-ins and load-outs and operate the lighting console during performances.

We tour with a GrandMA3 console, running a pre-programmed show on GrandMA2 software, with approximately 80% of cues automated via timecode from QLab. The remaining cues are manually executed during live scenes. The LD will collaborate closely with our L2 and L3 techs, oversee the ZacTrack performer tracking system (setup primarily handled by L2), and ensure all lighting elements are fully operational and calibrated at each venue.

In addition to technical execution, the LD will work directly with our Director and Stage Manager to ensure that lighting design enhances the emotional impact and storytelling of every scene.

Key Responsibilities:
-Lead and supervise lighting crew during load-ins and load-outs across all tour stops
-Operate GrandMA3 console running GrandMA2 show files for all live performances
-Collaborate with L2 and L3 to set up lighting rigs and troubleshoot systems
-Oversee ZacTrack performer tracking system setup and operation
-Integrate timecode-based cue automation with manual show control as needed
-Maintain lighting integrity across different venues and adapt to space-specific constraints
-Work closely with the Director and Stage Manager to align lighting with narrative and performance dynamics
-Respond quickly to technical issues and ensure safe, efficient operation of all lighting equipment

Qualifications:
-Extensive experience with GrandMA2/3 consoles and QLab timecode integration
-Proven leadership in touring productions, including managing crew and complex load-ins
-Strong understanding of intelligent lighting systems, tracking technology (ZacTrack preferred), and cue-based show control
-Ability to troubleshoot under pressure and adapt to varying venue specs
-Excellent communication skills and a collaborative, story-first mindset
-Availability for full touring schedule, including weekends and travel days
-Preferred: Prior experience in large-scale theatrical or faith-based productions and familiarity with immersive or multimedia staging.

PLEASE NOTE: It is possible this job could include Production Manger responsibilities, if the candidate qualifies and chooses to accept. If this is the case, pay will reflect this.