Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Shutters • Follow Spot • Wash Light

Hog Console

Term from Theatrical Lighting industry explained for recruiters

A Hog Console (also known as a Wholehog Console) is a specialized control desk used to manage stage lighting in theaters, concerts, and live events. It's like a command center that lets lighting designers and technicians control complex lighting systems with the push of buttons and slides. Made by High End Systems, these consoles are industry standards, similar to how Microsoft Word is standard for word processing. When someone mentions Hog Console experience on their resume, they're indicating they know how to program and operate professional lighting equipment for live performances.

Examples in Resumes

Programmed lighting sequences using Hog Console for Broadway-style theatrical productions

Operated Wholehog lighting console for national touring concert series

Trained junior technicians on Hog programming and operation

Typical job title: "Lighting Console Programmers"

Also try searching for:

Lighting Console Operator Lighting Programmer Lighting Board Operator Lighting Director Production Electrician Entertainment Lighting Technician

Where to Find Lighting Console Programmers

Online Communities

Job Boards

Professional Networks

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you approach programming a complex musical with multiple cue lists and effects?

Expected Answer: Should explain organizing cues by scenes, using groups and palettes efficiently, and ensuring backup systems are in place. Should mention experience with troubleshooting during live shows.

Q: Describe a challenging technical issue you've solved during a live production.

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate leadership in crisis management, backup plans, and ability to maintain show quality while resolving technical problems.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you organize your programming workflow for a new show?

Expected Answer: Should explain setting up groups, palettes, and basic cue structure, showing understanding of efficient programming practices.

Q: What's your process for backing up show files and handling console crashes?

Expected Answer: Should discuss regular backup procedures, understanding of show file management, and basic troubleshooting steps.

Junior Level Questions

Q: Can you explain the basic components of a Hog console?

Expected Answer: Should identify main sections like playback faders, programming keys, and touch screens, showing basic familiarity with console layout.

Q: How do you record a basic lighting cue?

Expected Answer: Should explain simple cue recording process, demonstrating understanding of basic console operation and simple programming tasks.