Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Hog Console • Beam Angle • Cyclorama Lighting

Gobo Selection

Term from Theatrical Lighting industry explained for recruiters

A gobo selection refers to a collection of templates or patterns used in theatrical lighting to create special effects and projected images. Think of them like stencils that are placed in front of stage lights to project various shapes, patterns, or designs onto the stage or backdrop. When someone mentions gobo selection skills on their resume, they're indicating experience in choosing and using these lighting effects for different theatrical or event productions. This is a fundamental skill in theatrical lighting design, similar to knowing how to use different types of stage lights or understanding color mixing.

Examples in Resumes

Managed and maintained a library of over 200 Gobo Selection patterns for multiple theater productions

Created custom lighting effects using Gobo combinations for Broadway-style shows

Trained junior technicians in proper Gobo installation and selection techniques

Typical job title: "Lighting Technicians"

Also try searching for:

Lighting Designer Stage Lighting Technician Theatre Electrician Lighting Board Operator Production Electrician Master Electrician

Where to Find Lighting Technicians

Professional Organizations

Online Communities

Job Resources

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you approach designing a gobo lighting plan for a complex production with multiple scene changes?

Expected Answer: A senior candidate should discuss assessing script requirements, coordinating with the director's vision, managing inventory, considering timing of changes, and training crew members on execution.

Q: How do you handle emergency situations when gobo effects malfunction during a live show?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of backup plans, quick troubleshooting, communication with the team, and ability to make quick decisions while maintaining show quality.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What factors do you consider when selecting gobos for different types of performances?

Expected Answer: Should mention stage size, lighting positions, surface materials, desired mood, practical considerations like heat resistance, and coordination with other design elements.

Q: How do you maintain and organize a gobo inventory?

Expected Answer: Should discuss cataloging systems, handling and storage procedures, damage prevention, and inventory management practices.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is a gobo and how is it typically used in theatrical lighting?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that gobos are templates for creating light patterns and describe basic installation and alignment procedures.

Q: Can you describe the different types of gobos available?

Expected Answer: Should know the difference between metal, glass, and plastic gobos, and basic applications for each type.