PAR Can
A PAR Can is a basic but essential type of stage lighting fixture commonly used in theaters, concerts, and events. The name "PAR" stands for "Parabolic Aluminized Reflector," but recruiters just need to know it's a standard spotlight-style lamp. Think of it as the workhouse of stage lighting - it's like a basic spotlight that creates a bright, focused beam of light. These lights are popular because they're reliable, affordable, and easy to use. You might also see them called "PAR lights," "PAR fixtures," or "stage cans" in job descriptions and resumes.
Examples in Resumes
Maintained and operated 50+ PAR Can fixtures for local theater productions
Designed lighting plots incorporating PAR Cans and LED fixtures for concert venues
Programmed lighting cues using PAR fixtures for Broadway-style shows
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 design a lighting plot for a large concert venue using PAR Cans and modern fixtures?
Expected Answer: A senior technician should discuss mixing traditional PAR Cans with newer technology, placement strategies for different stage areas, power distribution planning, and backup solutions for equipment failure.
Q: What factors do you consider when maintaining a large inventory of PAR Cans?
Expected Answer: Should mention inventory tracking systems, regular maintenance schedules, bulb life management, safety inspections, and cost-effective replacement strategies.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you troubleshoot common PAR Can issues during a show?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain quick fixes for common problems like blown bulbs, loose connections, or dimmer issues, while maintaining show quality.
Q: Explain how you would focus PAR Cans for different stage effects.
Expected Answer: Should describe different beam spreads, positioning techniques, and how to achieve various lighting effects for different performance needs.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the basic parts of a PAR Can and their functions?
Expected Answer: Should be able to identify the housing, lamp, lens, power cable, and safety cable, explaining the basic purpose of each component.
Q: What safety precautions do you take when handling PAR Cans?
Expected Answer: Should mention heat concerns, proper handling of hot fixtures, use of safety cables, proper power handling, and basic electrical safety.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic fixture setup and focusing
- Safe handling and maintenance
- Simple troubleshooting
- Following lighting plots
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced troubleshooting
- Creating basic lighting designs
- Power distribution knowledge
- Multiple fixture type operation
Senior (5+ years)
- Complex lighting design
- Crew supervision
- Venue-wide system planning
- Budget management
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of basic electrical safety
- Unfamiliarity with industry-standard connectors and power requirements
- Lack of experience with DMX control systems
- No understanding of basic color theory and lighting angles
Related Terms
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