Dimmer Assignment
Dimmer Assignment is a fundamental process in theatrical and event lighting where lighting technicians organize and connect stage lights to specific power controls (dimmers). It's like creating a map that tells each light which 'power switch' it should respond to. This setup is essential for any theatrical production, concert, or live event where lights need to be controlled precisely. Similar terms include "patch assignment" or "dimmer patching." Think of it as organizing a complex set of Christmas lights where each bulb needs to be connected to the right switch to create the desired lighting effect.
Examples in Resumes
Managed Dimmer Assignment and setup for 200+ lighting instruments in regional theater productions
Created and maintained Dimmer Patch documentation for touring Broadway shows
Supervised Dimmer Assignment and power distribution for major music festivals
Typical job title: "Lighting Technicians"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Lighting Technicians
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you plan dimmer assignment for a touring production that needs to adapt to different venues?
Expected Answer: A senior technician should discuss creating flexible plans that can adapt to different theater setups, maintaining clear documentation, and ensuring power requirements are met across various venues. They should mention backup plans and troubleshooting strategies.
Q: How do you manage power distribution and dimmer assignment for a large-scale outdoor event?
Expected Answer: Should explain load balancing, safety considerations, weather protection, backup power systems, and how to organize multiple dimmer racks efficiently while maintaining clear documentation.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What factors do you consider when creating a dimmer assignment plan?
Expected Answer: Should discuss power requirements, circuit locations, type of lighting fixtures, ease of access for maintenance, and how to document the setup clearly for other team members.
Q: How do you troubleshoot common dimmer assignment problems?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain checking physical connections, verifying patch assignments, testing dimmers, and maintaining clear communication with the lighting board operator.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is the purpose of dimmer assignment?
Expected Answer: Should explain that dimmer assignment connects lighting fixtures to specific power controls, allowing the lighting board operator to control specific lights or groups of lights during a show.
Q: How do you label and document dimmer assignments?
Expected Answer: Should describe basic documentation methods, including labeling cables, creating channel charts, and maintaining accurate paperwork for the lighting setup.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of electrical safety
- Reading lighting plots
- Simple dimmer patching
- Basic documentation skills
Mid (2-5 years)
- Complex dimmer system setup
- Troubleshooting electrical issues
- Power distribution planning
- Digital lighting console operation
Senior (5+ years)
- Advanced power distribution design
- Tour planning and management
- Team supervision
- Complex venue adaptation
Red Flags to Watch For
- Lack of basic electrical safety knowledge
- Unable to read lighting plots or technical drawings
- No experience with modern lighting control systems
- Poor documentation habits
- Limited understanding of power loading and distribution
Related Terms
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