Design Manager Assistant

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager Assistant

Company: Got Light

Location: San Francisco, CA

Job Type: Part-Time

Category: Event Production Operations

Date Posted: 2026-08-06

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Supports the Design Manager in the execution of technical aspects for lighting, audio, and video at special events.

• Operates and troubleshoots specialized event production equipment, including lighting consoles, dimming racks, and AV systems.

• Manages and guides assigned crews on-site, ensuring adherence to project scopes and company standards.

• Facilitates seamless internal operations through proactive communication and adherence to event deets and show notebooks.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a critical support function within the field operations team, focusing on technical execution and internal team coordination rather than client-facing responsibilities. The emphasis on "Got Light's Signature Style" and specific equipment indicates a need for specialized knowledge within the event production niche.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Execute technical setup, operation, and strike for lighting, audio, and video elements on-site as directed by the Design Manager.

• Operate and troubleshoot specific lighting consoles, including Leprecon, ColorSource, and MA3, ensuring smooth show execution.

• Manage power distribution, including patching, safety checks, and load balancing for dimmer racks and generator operations.

• Lead and delegate tasks to assigned event crews, providing clear instructions and technical guidance to ensure project scope adherence.

• Conduct basic AV support, including troubleshooting audio and video systems as required for event success.

• Ensure all technical operations and crew management align with Got Light's established signature style and best practices.

• Maintain a safe, organized, and efficient work environment throughout the installation, operation, and dismantling phases of events.

• Accurately interpret and follow Event Deets Packages and Show Notebooks in collaboration with the Design Manager.

• Proactively communicate any operational issues, equipment malfunctions, or logistical challenges to the Design Manager immediately.

• Adhere to union regulations and company policies, including those outlined in the Employee Handbook.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical proficiency, hands-on execution, and leadership within a specific project scope. The emphasis on internal communication and adherence to specific company directives (e.g., "Signature Style," "Event Deets Package") suggests a structured operational environment where precision and following established protocols are paramount.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Formal education in event production, lighting design, audio-visual technology, or a related technical field is beneficial but not explicitly required. Practical experience and demonstrated proficiency will be prioritized.

Experience: Minimum of 2 years of professional experience in live event production, lighting design, technical theater, or a closely related field. Experience in a support or assistant role to a lead technician or manager is highly valued.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in operating lighting consoles: Leprecon, ColorSource, and MA3.

• Solid working knowledge of power distribution systems, including cable types, gauges, load limits, and safe generator operation.

• Experience with DMX protocol and basic AV system troubleshooting.

• Demonstrated ability to patch and operate dimmer racks (e.g., Leppy Dimmer Packs, ETC Sensor Dimmer Racks).

• Experience controlling and patching wireless lighting fixtures like Astera, including app control and CRMX.

• Familiarity with personnel and scissor lift operation.

• Ability to execute and follow "calls" or lighting cues in alignment with established styles (e.g., FW, SW, DF, trees, bars).

• Completion of a rigging best practices workshop or equivalent experience.

• Strong organizational and time management skills for efficient project execution.

• Clear and precise communication skills for internal team coordination.

• Ability to work independently within a defined scope of responsibility. Preferred Skills:

• Basic understanding of audio and video system setup and troubleshooting.

• Familiarity with union regulations in event production environments.

• Experience in coaching or refreshing crew skills on-site.

• Knowledge of Got Light's specific "Signature Style" in lighting design.

• Experience with venue sweeps and ensuring site cleanliness during load-in and load-out.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize hands-on technical skills with specific event production equipment and systems. The blend of required and preferred skills suggests that while core technical competencies are essential, an understanding of the company's specific aesthetic and operational nuances will be advantageous.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrations of technical setup and execution for past live events, highlighting specific equipment used (lighting consoles, power distribution, AV).

• Case studies or project examples showcasing crew management, delegation, and on-site leadership within a defined scope.

• Documentation of troubleshooting scenarios and their resolutions for lighting, AV, or power-related issues.

• Evidence of understanding and adherence to technical specifications, cue sheets, or design notes.

• Examples of clear internal communication, such as logs, reports, or status updates to a supervisor. Process Documentation:

• Showcase familiarity with event deets packages and show notebooks, demonstrating the ability to extract critical information for execution.

• Illustrate understanding of power distribution safety protocols, cable management, and load balancing procedures.

• Provide examples of how you ensure adherence to a specific company's "signature style" or design aesthetic in your technical execution.

• Detail experience in managing on-site logistics for gear, power, and truck management within a delegated scope.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, a portfolio is less about design aesthetics and more about demonstrating practical execution, technical problem-solving, and operational efficiency. The emphasis should be on showcasing hands-on experience with the specified equipment and the ability to manage tasks and teams effectively in a live event setting.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $30 - $40 per hour.

Explanation: This range is based on the provided information and typical hourly rates for part-time technical event production roles in the San Francisco Bay Area. The specific rate within this range will likely depend on the candidate's demonstrated experience and proficiency with the required technical skills and consoles.

Benefits:

• A dynamic and creative work environment within a thriving event production company.

• Opportunities for growth and development in a high-energy industry.

• Collaborative team culture where contributions directly impact event success.

Working Hours: This is a Part-Time position. While specific hours will vary based on event schedules, candidates should expect a flexible schedule that includes evenings, weekends, and holidays. The stated maximum of 40 hours per week suggests that roles can extend to full-time equivalents depending on event volume.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is explicitly provided. The benefits listed are qualitative and focus on the work environment and career potential, which is common for part-time roles in creative industries. The flexible schedule is a critical component for event-based work.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Special Event and Wedding Production (Lighting, Audio, Video, Staging, Drape). Got Light focuses on creating unique and memorable experiences through advanced technical production.

Company Size: Based on the LinkedIn data, Got Light likely falls within the small to medium-sized business (SMB) range. This implies a close-knit team where individual contributions are highly visible and impactful. For operations professionals, this means opportunities for broader exposure to different facets of event production and potentially faster learning curves.

Founded: Founded in 2004, Got Light has established itself over two decades in the competitive San Francisco event market. This longevity suggests a stable company with a proven track record, a deep understanding of its industry, and a potentially strong client base.

Team Structure:

• The field team is structured hierarchically, with a Design Manager overseeing Design Manager Assistants (DMAs).

• DMAs are responsible for executing specific scopes of work and managing smaller crews assigned to those scopes.

• Communication flows primarily through the Design Manager, who acts as the single point of contact for external parties.

• Collaboration is expected to be strong internally, with DMAs working closely with their Design Manager and the crews they lead. Methodology:

• Technical Execution: Emphasizes adherence to "Got Light's Signature Style" for a consistent brand experience.

• Process Adherence: Relies on detailed "Event Deets Packages" and "Show Notebooks" for precise execution of technical plans.

• Team Management: Focuses on clear delegation, on-site coaching, and efficient crew coordination to meet project timelines and quality standards.

• Safety Focus: Incorporates strict protocols for power distribution, rigging, and equipment operation.

Company Website: https://www.got-light.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is characterized by a passion for "Making Art. Having Fun. Being Proud." This suggests an environment that values creativity, teamwork, and a strong sense of accomplishment. The operational focus is on delivering high-quality, branded experiences in a fast-paced, deadline-driven industry.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is an entry-to-mid-level position within the technical operations of event production. It serves as a stepping stone for individuals aiming to grow into more senior technical or management roles within the company. The "Assistant" title signifies a supportive capacity, with direct mentorship from a Design Manager.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager Assistant reports directly to the Design Manager. This provides a clear line of communication for direction, feedback, and issue resolution, essential for timely project execution in live events.

Operations Impact: While not client-facing, the DMA's impact is critical to the successful delivery of events. Their technical execution, crew leadership, and adherence to standards directly influence the quality of the final production, client satisfaction (indirectly through the DM's success), and the company's reputation for reliable, high-quality event services.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise with specific lighting consoles (MA3, ColorSource), dimming systems, and wireless fixture control.

• Leadership Development: Progression from managing small crews to potentially leading larger teams or entire project scopes as a Design Manager.

• Broader Event Production Skills: Exposure to audio, video, staging, and rigging best practices, offering a holistic view of event operations.

• Mentorship: Direct guidance from experienced Design Managers, fostering skill development and understanding of industry best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is ideal for individuals passionate about live event technology who are looking to build a career in production operations. The growth path is clearly defined towards management within the technical operations field, leveraging hands-on experience.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This role is primarily field-based, operating at various event venues throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. While there might be a central office for administrative tasks or equipment storage, the core work occurs on-site at client locations (e.g., hotels, convention centers, private estates).

Office Location(s): The primary work locations will be diverse event venues across the San Francisco Bay Area. Candidates must have reliable transportation to reach these sites, which can vary widely in type and accessibility.

Workspace Context:

• Dynamic & Varied: Workspaces change daily depending on the event venue, ranging from intimate settings to large-scale production environments.

• Hands-On & Technical: The environment is highly practical, involving direct interaction with technical equipment, cabling, and staging elements.

• Collaborative & Fast-Paced: DMAs will work closely with their Design Manager and event crews, often under tight deadlines, requiring efficient communication and teamwork.

• Safety-Oriented: Emphasis on maintaining safe work practices in potentially complex and busy event setups.

Work Schedule: This is a Part-Time position with a flexible schedule that is heavily event-driven. Expect to work evenings, weekends, and holidays, as these are common times for special events. The role may require extended hours during setup and strike.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is characterized by its dynamic, on-location nature, requiring adaptability and a strong commitment to the event schedule, which often falls outside standard business hours.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess experience with required technical skills and event production background.

• Technical Assessment/Interview: This may involve a discussion about your experience with specific lighting consoles (MA3, ColorSource, Leprecon), power distribution, and AV troubleshooting. You might be asked to describe how you would approach specific technical scenarios or equipment setups.

• On-site/Field Simulation (Potential): A practical demonstration or discussion about your ability to manage a small crew, interpret technical documents (like cue sheets or event notes), and adhere to safety protocols.

• Cultural Fit Interview: Discussion about your understanding of Got Light's "Make Art. Have Fun. Be Proud." ethos, your ability to work within a team structure, and your communication style with internal colleagues.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Execution: Highlight your hands-on technical contributions to events. Use photos or short videos if possible to showcase setups you've worked on.

• Quantify Experience: Specify the types of events you've worked on (weddings, corporate, galas), the scale of productions, and the specific equipment you operated.

• Demonstrate Problem-Solving: Include examples of technical challenges you encountered and how you resolved them, especially those related to lighting, AV, or power.

• Showcase Leadership: If you have experience leading crews, provide examples of how you delegated tasks, managed team dynamics, and ensured project completion.

• Highlight Safety & Efficiency: Mention any specific safety protocols you followed or initiatives you took to improve efficiency during setup or strike.

Challenge Preparation:

• Technical Scenarios: Be prepared to discuss how you would troubleshoot common issues with lighting consoles, power distribution, or AV equipment.

• Crew Management: Practice explaining how you would delegate tasks to a small crew, provide clear instructions, and ensure tasks are completed accurately and on time.

• Company Style Adherence: Think about how you would interpret and apply a specific "signature style" to your technical work, ensuring consistency with the client's vision and the company's brand.

• Communication: Be ready to articulate how you would communicate critical information (issues, progress) to your Design Manager effectively and concisely.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process will likely focus on practical, hands-on technical skills and the ability to execute under pressure within a team. A portfolio that clearly demonstrates these capabilities will be crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Lighting Consoles: Leprecon, ColorSource, MA3 (Advanced proficiency required for MA3, solid working knowledge for others).

• Dimming Racks: Leppy Dimmer Packs, ETC Sensor Dimmer Racks (12, 24, and 48 channel) – requires patching and operation knowledge.

• Wireless Fixture Control: Astera fixtures (pairing, control via app, CRMX control on MA3).

• Power Distribution: Familiarity with cable types, gauges, load limits, generator operation, metering, and safe use of distribution units.

• AV Systems: Basic AV support and troubleshooting capabilities for audio and video.

• Safety Equipment: Personnel and scissor lifts operation.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Event Documentation: Event Deets Packages and Show Notebooks are key for understanding project scope and requirements.

• Internal Communication Tools: Standard communication methods for reporting issues and progress to the Design Manager (likely email, internal messaging platforms, or direct verbal communication).

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this role's core responsibilities, which are field-based technical execution. However, understanding how project details are managed internally might be beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is highly specific to the live event production industry, with a strong emphasis on lighting control and power management. Proficiency with the listed consoles and equipment is a non-negotiable requirement.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Make Art: A commitment to creative excellence and delivering visually stunning lighting and AV designs.

• Have Fun: Fostering a positive, engaging, and dynamic work environment where team members enjoy their work.

• Be Proud: Encouraging a sense of ownership, pride in craftsmanship, and accomplishment in delivering successful events.

• Technical Competence: Valuing precision, reliability, and a deep understanding of event production technology.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Emphasizing internal cooperation, clear communication, and mutual support to achieve common goals.

• Safety & Professionalism: Upholding high standards for workplace safety and professional conduct on-site.

Collaboration Style:

• Hierarchical & Directive: Collaboration is structured, with clear direction flowing from the Design Manager to the DMA and then to assigned crews.

• Internal Focus: All collaboration is within the Got Light team; external client or vendor interaction is handled by the Design Manager.

• Proactive Communication: Encourages immediate reporting of issues to ensure swift problem resolution and maintain project momentum.

• Knowledge Sharing: On-site coaching and skill refreshing within crews suggest a culture of shared learning and development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's stated values ("Make Art. Have Fun. Be Proud.") are central to its culture. Operations professionals in this environment are expected to be passionate about their craft, work well in a team, and maintain a positive attitude, even under pressure.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Dynamic Event Schedules: The part-time, event-driven nature means unpredictable hours, requiring significant flexibility and adaptability.

• Technical Complexity: Mastering a range of specialized lighting and AV equipment, including specific console operations and power distribution, demands continuous learning.

• On-Site Pressure: Working in fast-paced event environments with tight deadlines and the need for immediate problem-solving can be demanding.

• Limited Client Interaction: The role's internal focus means success is measured by execution quality and team communication, requiring satisfaction from behind-the-scenes contributions.

• Physical Demands: The role involves significant physical activity, including lifting, bending, and standing for extended periods.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Console Training: Deepen expertise with MA3, ColorSource, and other industry-standard lighting control systems.

• Specialized Event Technology: Gain hands-on experience with advanced lighting fixtures, rigging techniques, and AV integration.

• Crew Leadership Skills: Develop stronger delegation, communication, and motivational skills for managing event crews.

• Project Management Fundamentals: Learn about event logistics, resource management, and execution planning from experienced Design Managers.

• Industry Exposure: Work on a diverse range of high-profile events, expanding your portfolio and network within the special event industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant opportunities for practical, hands-on learning in a specialized technical field. The primary growth path involves advancing technical skills and moving into leadership positions within event production operations.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Technical Proficiency: "Describe your experience with MA3 consoles. What are some common troubleshooting steps you would take if a light fixture isn't responding?" "Walk me through how you would safely set up and patch a 24-channel dimmer rack for a small stage setup." "How do you ensure power distribution is safe and balanced, especially when using generators?"

• Team & Operations Management: "How would you delegate tasks to a crew of three technicians for a stage lighting setup, ensuring everyone understands their role and the timeline?" "Imagine a critical lighting fixture fails mid-show. How would you communicate this to your Design Manager and what immediate steps would you take?" "Describe a time you had to adapt your plan on-site due to an unforeseen issue. What was the challenge and how did you handle it?"

• Company Alignment: "What does 'Make Art. Have Fun. Be Proud.' mean to you in the context of event production?" "How do you ensure you adhere to a specific company's design style when executing technical elements?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working specifically with Got Light and our approach to event production?"

• "How do you handle working flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as required in the event industry?"

• "Describe your ideal team dynamic when working on-site for a live event." Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Showcase Technical Execution: Use photos/videos of setups you've worked on, highlighting your role in their implementation. Detail the specific equipment and consoles used.

• Illustrate Problem-Solving: Present a brief case study of a technical challenge encountered on-site and how you resolved it, emphasizing your decision-making process and the outcome.

• Demonstrate Leadership: If applicable, present an example of a time you successfully managed a small crew, explaining your delegation strategy and how you ensured task completion.

• Highlight Safety Protocols: Briefly explain your understanding and application of safety procedures in a live event setting.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to discuss specific technical equipment and operational scenarios. Demonstrating an understanding of the company's values and a proactive, team-oriented approach will be key to success.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager Assistant position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on the Got Light careers portal.

• Tailor your resume: Highlight your experience with specific lighting consoles (MA3, ColorSource, Leprecon), power distribution, AV support, and any crew leadership roles. Quantify your experience where possible (e.g., "Operated MA3 on 50+ events," "Managed crews of up to 5 technicians").

• Prepare your portfolio: Curate examples of event setups you've contributed to, focusing on technical execution and problem-solving. Be ready to discuss your specific contributions and the equipment used.

• Research Got Light: Familiarize yourself with their website, the types of events they produce, and their company ethos ("Make Art. Have Fun. Be Proud."). Understand their "Signature Style" as much as possible.

• Practice interview responses: Prepare to answer technical questions about lighting consoles, power distribution, and AV troubleshooting, as well as behavioral questions about teamwork, problem-solving, and adapting to flexible schedules.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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