Head of Lighting – OVO

Head of Department, Lighting – OVO

Stage Lighting

Full‑Time Position

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Head of Department (HOD), Lighting to lead the Lighting and Video operations for one of Cirque du Soleil’s touring shows. Reporting to the Technical Director and working in close collaboration with the Artistic Director and Technical Services, this role is responsible for all aspects of lighting, projection/video, and special effects, ensuring their seamless integration to elevate the overall show experience. The HOD Lighting oversees the safe installation, dismantling, operation, and maintenance of related systems, including networks, power and UPS systems, dimming systems, projection and video technology, consoles, and special effects equipment.

The ideal candidate is a collaborative leader with a strong technical foundation, exceptional organizational skills, and the ability to balance multiple priorities while thriving in a fast‑paced international touring environment.

Responsibilities

• Manage and supervise the department during rehearsals, performances, training sessions, set‑ups, tear‑downs, and city transfers.
• Support the Technical Director to hire, train, and supervise employees, including permanent, temporary, and local crew, handling all HR‑related tasks (timesheets, scheduling, onboarding, disciplinary procedures, evaluations).
• Collaborate with the Technical Director and Show Support to manage budgets, forecasting, and capital expense projections.
• Lead and contribute to special projects, including research, purchasing, construction, installation, integration of new show elements, equipment upgrades, and technical initiatives.
• Maintain comprehensive departmental documentation, including equipment specifications, cue tracks, maintenance logs, safety records, inventories, and customs documentation.
• Uphold artistic integrity in collaboration with the Artistic and Design teams, ensuring compliance with show standards.
• Operate and maintain Lighting, Projection and Special Effects systems during rehearsals, performances, and training sessions; run show tracks as needed, including cross‑departmental support.
• Develop and oversee Lighting, Projection and Special Effects safety inspections and preventive maintenance programs; inspect and maintain Lighting, Projection and Special Effects equipment with proper documentation.
• Serve as an instructor for Health & Safety trainings, emergency rescue procedures, and support the development of technical staff while promoting Cirque du Soleil’s safety culture.
• Ensure compliance with OSHA, local regulations, and Cirque du Soleil protocols.
• Maintain adequate stock of materials and equipment to ensure seamless technical operations.
• Support contingency planning for system or equipment failures to ensure uninterrupted show operations.
• Participate in departmental and production meetings, city transfers, and act as crew chief during set‑up, runs, and tear‑downs.
• Respond appropriately to on‑site injuries or emergencies, documenting incidents in line with safety protocols.
• Foster a collaborative, respectful, and safe working environment aligned with Cirque du Soleil’s values.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Availability to tour internationally full‑time and work in foreign countries.
• Degree or diploma in live entertainment, theatre production, or equivalent professional experience.
• Minimum 5 years experience in Lighting, Projection/Video & Special Effects within the entertainment industry.
• Minimum 3 years of leadership experience in a technical entertainment setting and 2 years of touring experience.
• In‑depth knowledge of and experience with the installation, operation, and maintenance of large‑scale theatrical lighting, projection/video, and special effects systems.
• Must have experience with Lighting Consoles, Video Servers, PC hardware setup and administration, large‑format video projectors, video cameras, hardware and software video capture, editing and compression experience.
• Strong knowledge / operation / setup of performer tracking systems.
• Strong knowledge of ethernet and wireless technology (TCP/IP, UDP, VLANs, Switches, firewalls).
• Strong knowledge of DMX, Midi and Timecode protocols.
• Understanding of multiple digital video formats.
• Comprehension of strong principles of:
  • AC/DC electricity;
  • Electronics;
  • Computer operations, as it pertains to lighting, projection and special effects systems.
  • Reading and interpreting schematics and technical diagrams.
• Proven leadership and team‑building skills; ability to foster a collaborative work environment.
• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite and CAD software (AutoCAD, SOLIDWORKS).
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with a professional demeanor.
• Excellent problem‑solving, adaptability, and time‑management skills.
• Fluent in English (written and spoken); additional languages are a plus.
• Ability to perform the essential functions of the job including, but not limited to: crouching, kneeling, standing, lifting, sometimes for extended amounts of time; heavy lifting unassisted, etc. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate against applicants or employees because of their race, creed, color, age, religion, sex, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, military status, national origin or ancestry.

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