Lighting Technician

MFAH • Houston, TX

17h

About The Position

The Lighting Technician is responsible for installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting all lighting systems throughout the museum, including exhibition lighting, specialty lighting, architectural lighting, and general facilities illumination. This role ensures that all artworks are presented safely and effectively, with lighting that enhances visitor experience while meeting conservation and curatorial standards .

Requirements

• Must be able to work at various heights up to 85 feet, able to perform physical tasks including lifting and carrying 50 lbs., bending, stooping, climbing ladders, and working on platforms
• Knowledge of museum conservation lighting standards (lux levels, UV control, heat management).
• Must have a working knowledge of lighting fixtures used in lighting exhibitions
• Working knowledge of basic electrical formulas is necessary for extending or modifying existing systems or wiring unique lighting systems
• Ability to read lighting plots, wiring diagrams, and technical documentation.
• Strong interpersonal skills and effectively communicating and interacting with Museum employees, outside contractors, and the general public.
• Excellent troubleshooting, problem‑solving, and time‑management skills
• Strong enthusiasm for learning and rigorous on-the-job training
• Must be available for overtime, including weekends and 24-hour on-call
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Minimum two years of experience in operating and maintaining lighting systems for art galleries and exhibitions, or related experience

Nice To Haves

• Maintenance Electrician License or ability to obtain one, desirable

Responsibilities

• Install, focus, adjust, and program lighting for gallery exhibitions and unique installations under the direction of the Lighting Design Manager or Chief Electrician
• Read exhibit plans and design effective lighting systems
• Work closely with curators, exhibition designers, and conservation teams to implement lighting that meets artistic vision and preservation guidelines.
• Maintain and troubleshoot specialty lighting systems such as track lighting, fiber-optic systems, UV-limited fixtures, and controlled-environment lighting.
• Measures light intensity with light meters and adjust the lighting to reach optimal levels of intensity to provide optimal lighting levels for the viewing public and to minimize harmful effects on works of art
• Conduct routine inspections, maintenance, and repairs of all museum-wide lighting, including public areas, offices, event spaces, and outdoor architectural lighting.
• Maintain and update inventory of lighting fixtures, lamps, gels, filters, and lighting control equipment.
• Operates various aerial lifts (20ft to 85ft) and fork lifts to complete tasks
• Drives cargo van, box truck, and pickup truck to and from work sites
• As part of the essential staff- protects museum properties during natural disasters (hurricanes, floods, ice storms, etc.)
• Performs other duties as assigned

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED