Lead Lighting Specialist

Job Posting Title:

Lead Lighting Specialist

Req ID:

10156567

Job Description:

ESPN’s Directing team is looking for their next Lead Lighting Specialist! The Lead Lighting Specialist will help oversee and maintain all production lighting and studio electrical infrastructure. This individual will work to create the best product for our fans in partnership with the studio directors and the lighting team. They will also help define departmental Standard Operating Procedures and performance standards for the team.

Responsibilities:

• Demonstrates strong knowledge of lighting elements in all studios, including lighting boards and instruments used, and regularly communicates progress with the Manager.  
• Performs intermediate programming on all lighting consoles in all studios. 
• Creates and updates lighting cues, magic sheets, macros, and palettes while keeping the Lighting Team and studio staff abreast of all updates.  
• Contributes to all lighting requests in all studios with other Lighting Team members.  
• Assists in planning and the implementation of lighting plot and scenic lighting elements. 
• Contributes to high-profile lighting-based initiatives, from planning stages to completion, with lighting team members acting in advisory roles.  
• Works with show directors to identify and implement lighting enhancements in assigned studio spaces.  
• Collaborates with Studio Operations Mgmt. and scheduling teams to secure space as needed and updates team and Manager accordingly.  
• Demonstrates ability to manage multiple assignments and requested lighting projects with minimal supervision.   
• Keeps apprised of the latest technology trends in lighting by researching new or improved equipment and making appropriate recommendations. 
• Assists in setting up vendor demo arrangements with appropriate staff members.  
• Updates plots in Vectorworks and Lightwrite in assigned studio spaces. Updates all programming and paperwork related to the project and keeps all necessary personnel updated.  
• Demonstrates the ability to troubleshoot and perform repairs on lighting instruments and associated equipment. 
• Follows up with Studio Operations and TSG as necessary and provides monthly updates to the Manager.
• Coordinates RMA’s and works with distributors and vendors on all repairs.  

Required Qualifications:

• Minimum of three years of professional experience in a studio or theatrical background.
• Demonstrates strong knowledge of lighting elements in all studios, including lighting boards and instruments used. 

Preferred Qualifications:

• Familiarity with Microsoft-based software (Word, Excel, Teams), and PowerPoint. 

Required Education:

• High School Diploma or Equivalent.

Preferred Education:

• A College or Technical School degree in communications, electronics, television production or a related field. 

#ESPNMedia

The hiring range for this position in Bristol, CT is $72,000 to $96,500 per year. The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the candidate’s geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors. A bonus and/or long-term incentive units may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to the full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the level and position offered.

Job Posting Segment:

ESPN Sports Production

Job Posting Primary Business:

ESPN Directing

Primary Job Posting Category:

Lighting

Employment Type:

Full time

Primary City, State, Region, Postal Code:

Bristol, CT, USA

Alternate City, State, Region, Postal Code:

Date Posted:

2026-07-29