Career roadmap
How to Become a Lighting Technician
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a lighting technician, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a lighting technician: (1) learn lighting basics, (2) work as a stagehand, (3) learn consoles, (4) earn certifications, (5) advance. Most people need about 6 months–2 years. BLS lists “postsecondary nondegree award” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a lighting technician
Learn lighting basics
Fixtures, color and electricity.
Work as a stagehand
Gain hands-on experience.
Learn consoles
Program and operate.
Earn certifications
Pursue ETCP.
Advance
Become a lead tech, programmer or designer.
Education and training requirements
A postsecondary certificate is common, and many technicians learn on the job.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Postsecondary nondegree award |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | Short-term on-the-job training |
| Typical training time | 6 months–2 years |
Certifications and licenses
- ETCP Entertainment Electrician: Certification for entertainment electricians.
- ETCP Rigger: Rigging certification.
- Console training: Training on ETC or grandMA.
- OSHA 10: Safety training.
Skills to build now
Start with lighting fixtures, dmx and control systems, and console programming, and practice teamwork and creativity. Learning the lighting technician vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Stagehand: Assist with lighting.
- Lighting Technician: Hang, focus and run lights.
- Programmer or Gaffer: Program consoles or lead crews.
- Lighting Designer: Design lighting.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Lighting Technician training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
Do lighting techs need a degree?
Not usually.
How long does it take to become a lighting technician?
Most people need about 6 months–2 years of training. A postsecondary certificate is common, and many technicians learn on the job.
Do you need a degree to be a lighting technician?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “postsecondary nondegree award” as the typical entry-level education, plus short-term on-the-job training.
What certifications are available for lighting technicians?
Common credentials include ETCP Entertainment Electrician, ETCP Rigger, Console training, and OSHA 10. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 27-4015 (Lighting technicians).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Lighting technicians (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.