Event Technician (Lighting Engineer) in Manchester

Location: Manchester (Office, Warehouse, Site & Field Based)

Salary: £30,000 - £37,500 per annum

Hours: 9:00am – 5:00pm (42.5 hours per week)

Overview

We are looking for a skilled and motivated Event Technician (Lighting Engineer) to join our established technical team based in Manchester. Working across a diverse portfolio of corporate, commercial and private events, you will be responsible for the design, preparation, installation and operation of professional lighting systems for productions ranging from small-scale events through to major projects with budgets exceeding £1 million. This is a varied, hands-on role combining warehouse preparation, office-based planning and onsite event delivery. You'll work closely with project managers, producers, clients and fellow technicians to deliver exceptional event experiences while maintaining the highest standards of safety, presentation and technical excellence. As part of a department of 17 technicians, supported by a dedicated scheduling team, you'll have the opportunity to lead freelance crews, mentor junior team members and contribute to the continued development of our lighting capabilities. Flexibility is essential, as the role will involve travel throughout the UK and occasional evening and weekend work in line with event schedules.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, prepare, install and operate lighting systems for a wide range of corporate, commercial and private events, ensuring projects are delivered to the highest technical and creative standards.
• Collaborate with project managers, producers and creative teams to understand event objectives, develop lighting solutions and adapt designs throughout the project lifecycle.
• Programme, configure and operate lighting consoles and associated software, ensuring reliable performance during live events and productions.
• Lead, supervise and support freelance crew, junior technicians and event staff, promoting safe working practices and efficient project delivery.
• Maintain, test, troubleshoot and prepare lighting equipment within warehouse facilities, whilst coordinating equipment logistics, deliveries and collections using company vehicles.
• Build strong working relationships with clients, suppliers, venues and event stakeholders, ensuring compliance with health & safety regulations, industry best practices and company standards at all times.

Essential Requirements

• Minimum 2 years' experience as a Lighting Engineer within the live events industry (corporate event experience preferred).
• Proficiency with industry-standard lighting consoles, including GrandMA and/or Avolites.
• Strong knowledge of DMX protocols, networking and lighting control systems.
• Experience working with intelligent lighting fixtures and LED technology.
• Ability to read and interpret CAD drawings and lighting plots.
• Excellent communication, organisational and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a wider team.
• High standard of personal presentation and professionalism when representing the company.
• Flexible approach to working hours, including evenings, weekends, overnight stays and travel when required.
• Highly motivated with the confidence to lead by example and take ownership of projects.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to maintaining equipment to a high presentation standard.
• Full UK Driving Licence.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to safely lift and carry equipment weighing up to 25kg.
• Comfortable working at height and in low-light environments.
• Good manual dexterity for operating technical equipment and handling small components.

Benefits

Core Benefits

• 33 days annual leave (including bank holidays).
• Additional birthday day off after 3 years' continuous service.
• Additional annual leave day after 5 years' continuous service.
• Company pension scheme.
• Staff recognition programme.
• Free on-site parking.
• Company social events.

Additional Benefits (Following Successful Probation)

• Award-winning healthcare package including private medical treatment, mental health support, GP access and more.
• Dental, optical and audiology cover.
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP).
• Company sick pay scheme.
• Enhanced maternity, paternity and shared parental pay.
• Long service rewards.
• Cycle to Work scheme.
• Electric Vehicle scheme.

If you're passionate about live events, enjoy working with cutting-edge lighting technology and thrive in a fast-paced environment where no two days are the same, we'd love to hear from you.