Source Four
The Source Four is a very popular type of stage lighting fixture made by ETC (Electronic Theatre Controls). When someone mentions this in their resume, they're referring to their experience with professional theater lighting equipment. It's like the industry standard spotlight that most theaters use, similar to how Microsoft Word is a standard in offices. These lights are known for being reliable and versatile, which is why they're found in most theaters, concert venues, and TV studios. When candidates mention Source Four experience, it shows they're familiar with professional-grade lighting equipment.
Examples in Resumes
Maintained and operated 24 Source Four spotlights for main stage productions
Programmed lighting cues using Source Four instruments for touring Broadway shows
Supervised installation of new Source Four inventory and trained staff on proper usage
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 and oversee a large-scale lighting equipment upgrade from conventional fixtures to Source Fours?
Expected Answer: A senior candidate should discuss budget planning, installation scheduling, staff training needs, and how to maintain productions during the transition. They should also mention inventory management and maintenance protocols.
Q: What factors do you consider when creating a Source Four maintenance schedule for a busy venue?
Expected Answer: They should discuss regular cleaning schedules, lamp hour tracking, lens maintenance, preventative repairs, and how to coordinate maintenance around show schedules.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What are the common troubleshooting steps for a Source Four that's not working properly?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain checking power, lamp inspection, checking connections, and basic repair procedures. Should mention safety protocols when handling hot equipment.
Q: How do you determine the appropriate Source Four lens degree for different staging situations?
Expected Answer: Should explain how throw distance, stage size, and desired lighting effect influence lens choice, and demonstrate understanding of available lens options (5°, 10°, 14°, 19°, 26°, 36°, 50°, 70°, 90°).
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the basic parts of a Source Four and their functions?
Expected Answer: Should identify main components like the lamp, reflector, lens tube, shutters, and gel frame holder, and explain their basic purposes.
Q: What safety procedures should be followed when handling Source Fours?
Expected Answer: Should mention heat concerns, proper handling techniques, use of gloves when needed, and basic electrical safety awareness.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic fixture handling and maintenance
- Understanding of safety procedures
- Basic focusing and shuttering techniques
- Proper cable management
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced troubleshooting
- Efficient fixture installation
- Inventory management
- Training junior technicians
Senior (5+ years)
- System design and planning
- Budget management
- Team supervision
- Venue-wide maintenance programs
Red Flags to Watch For
- No knowledge of basic safety procedures
- Unfamiliarity with industry-standard lighting terminology
- Lack of hands-on experience with professional lighting equipment
- No understanding of basic maintenance requirements
Need more hiring wisdom? Check these out...
Cracking the Code: How to Source Talent in APAC and EMEA with Cultural Sensitivity
Global Compliance Checks: The Hidden Puzzle Pieces of Background Screening Revealed
Workforce Solutions Aggregators: The Next Big Thing You Didn't Know You Needed
