Moving Lights
Moving Lights are advanced stage lighting fixtures that can change position, color, and create special effects automatically. Unlike traditional fixed lights, these can move, rotate, and change their beam patterns without someone physically adjusting them. They're commonly used in theaters, concerts, TV studios, and other entertainment venues. Some people also call them "intelligent lights," "automated lights," or "moving heads." Think of them as spotlights that can dance and change on their own, controlled by a lighting console or computer.
Examples in Resumes
Programmed Moving Lights for national touring Broadway productions
Maintained inventory of 50+ Automated Lights for major concert venue
Designed lighting plots incorporating Intelligent Lights and conventional fixtures
Technical director responsible for Moving Head installation and maintenance
Typical job title: "Moving Light Technicians"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Moving Light Technicians
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you plan maintenance schedules for a large inventory of moving lights?
Expected Answer: Should discuss preventive maintenance, tracking fixture hours, organizing repair schedules during dark days, maintaining spare parts inventory, and coordinating with production schedules.
Q: Describe your experience with programming complex moving light shows.
Expected Answer: Should explain experience with various lighting consoles, creating cue lists, timing sequences, troubleshooting during live shows, and backing up show files.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What steps do you take when a moving light stops responding during a show?
Expected Answer: Should describe quick troubleshooting steps like checking power, data connections, addressing, and having backup plans or alternative solutions ready.
Q: How do you organize and maintain moving light profiles in your console?
Expected Answer: Should discuss keeping fixture libraries updated, testing new profiles, organizing by manufacturer/type, and maintaining backup copies.
Junior Level Questions
Q: Can you explain the basic parts of a moving light?
Expected Answer: Should be able to identify main components like the head, yoke, base, lamp, color mixing system, and basic controls.
Q: What safety precautions do you take when hanging moving lights?
Expected Answer: Should mention safety cables, proper mounting hardware, weight limits, power requirements, and personal safety equipment.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic moving light setup and addressing
- Understanding of DMX protocols
- Basic maintenance and cleaning
- Simple programming concepts
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced programming techniques
- Troubleshooting and repair
- Multiple console types experience
- Show operation in live environments
Senior (5+ years)
- System design and installation
- Complex show programming
- Team leadership and training
- Budget management and maintenance planning
Red Flags to Watch For
- No hands-on experience with actual moving light fixtures
- Unfamiliarity with common lighting consoles
- Lack of basic electrical knowledge
- No experience with live event operations
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