Lighting Technicians

Lighting technicians do many hands-on, creative tasks. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics explains that these workers “set up, maintain, and dismantle light fixtures, lighting control devices, and the associated lighting electrical and rigging equipment” for TV, film, and live shows ^[1]. They focus lights, wire equipment, and attach color filters to match a design.

Some technology already helps them. For example, modern light fixtures can be motorized and controlled by a computer console. Official job guides note that technicians may “operate … automated systems to control lighting” and program lighting consoles ^[2].

However, fully autonomous AI systems for lighting are not common today. In practice, humans still decide how and where to aim lights and adjust colors. So far, AI tools have mostly been used to assist creative professionals (like designers and artists) rather than replace them ^[3].

New AI tools for lighting are still at an early stage. Commercial systems for smart or adaptive lighting exist (for example, sensors that dim or move lights), but they are not yet widespread in everyday productions. Cost is a factor: lighting technicians earn about $58,000 a year on average ^[1], and studios must weigh any expensive new gear against paying experienced humans.

Another reason adoption may be slow is industry culture and rules. For instance, the theatrical crew union (IATSE) recently made deals with studios that include safeguards so AI cannot displace workers like lighting technicians ^[4]. Overall, most experts believe AI will augment lighting jobs by giving technicians new tools (for example, helping with design plans or quick adjustments) rather than fully taking over.

Lighting work is very hands-on and creative, and employees still guide the final artistic decisions ^{[3] [4]}. In our view, lighting technicians who learn to use these tools may find their jobs evolving in interesting ways, but human skill and judgment will remain important.