Design Manager Assistant - Special Events

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager Assistant - Special Events

Company: Got Light

Location: San Francisco, CA

Job Type: Part-Time

Category: Event Production & Design Operations

Date Posted: August 06, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on the operational execution of special event lighting and AV projects, ensuring technical proficiency and adherence to Got Light's signature style.

• The Design Manager Assistant (DMA) acts as a crucial support function for the Design Manager, managing on-site project execution and crew leadership for delegated scopes.

• Success is measured by the quality of technical execution, the strength of internal team communication, and the seamless implementation of event designs.

• This position requires a hands-on approach to technical operations, including equipment setup, programming, and troubleshooting within a dynamic event environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title includes "Design Manager Assistant," the core responsibilities lean heavily into technical operations, crew management, and on-site execution rather than traditional design or administrative support. The role is framed as a support function to the Design Manager, emphasizing execution and technical competence.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Execute lighting, audio, and video project scopes on-site, ensuring alignment with Got Light's signature style and technical specifications.

• Operate and program lighting consoles, including Leprecon, ColorSource, and MA3, to deliver programmed cues and effects.

• Manage power distribution, including safe setup, load balancing, and adherence to safety protocols for dimmer racks and power distribution units.

• Lead and delegate tasks effectively to event crews for assigned scopes, providing clear instructions and on-site coaching as needed.

• Perform basic AV support, including troubleshooting audio and video systems when required.

• Maintain meticulous internal communication with the Design Manager, reporting progress, issues, and logistical needs promptly.

• Ensure a safe, clean, and organized work environment during installation, show execution, and strike.

• Conduct venue sweeps during installation and strike to ensure all company equipment is accounted for and the venue is left in optimal condition.

• Handle internal logistics issues related to gear, power, and truck management within the scope assigned by the Design Manager.

• Adhere to union regulations where applicable and ensure crew compliance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical skill, leadership, and operational execution. The emphasis on "internal communication" and "all external-facing responsibilities remain with the Design Manager" clarifies the role's supportive and execution-focused nature, distinct from client-facing roles.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is listed, a strong understanding of technical production principles is implied. Completion of Got Light's rigging best practices workshop is a requirement.

Experience: Minimum of 2 years of professional experience in live event production, lighting, or a closely related technical field.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency with lighting consoles, specifically Leprecon, ColorSource, and MA3.

• Solid working knowledge of power distribution principles, including cable types, gauges, load limits, and safe use of equipment.

• Experience with DMX protocols and basic AV systems (audio and video troubleshooting).

• Ability to power, patch, and operate Leppy Dimmer Packs and ETC Sensor Dimmer Racks.

• Experience patching, programming, and running basic cues on the MA3 console.

• Familiarity with patching and operating the ColorSource console.

• Experience with Astera fixtures (pairing, app control, basic MA3 control via CRMX).

• Proven experience leading crews or managing specific scopes of work on-site.

• Strong organizational skills with meticulous attention to detail for execution and reporting.

• Excellent internal communication skills, with the ability to relay direction with precision.

• Availability to work flexible schedules, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

• Reliable transportation for travel to event sites throughout the Bay Area.

• Ability to work independently within an assigned scope with minimal supervision. Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with generator operation and metering.

• Experience operating personnel and scissor lifts.

• Understanding of union regulations in event production.

• Knowledge of Got Light's signature style (FW, SW, DF, trees, bars, etc.).

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills are highly technical and specific to live event production and lighting operations. The emphasis on console proficiency and power distribution indicates a need for practical, hands-on technical expertise.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate experience in executing technical event plans, showcasing successful project completion from setup to strike.

• Provide examples of technical problem-solving and troubleshooting in live event scenarios.

• Showcase any experience with crew leadership and delegation on project sites.

• Illustrate understanding of event production workflows, including power distribution and basic AV integration. Process Documentation:

• Highlight experience in reading and processing event documentation (e.g., Event Deets Packages, Show Notebooks).

• Showcase methods for ensuring adherence to company-specific styles and technical standards during execution.

• Detail approaches to maintaining safe, organized, and efficient work environments on-site.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal "portfolio" isn't explicitly requested, candidates should be prepared to discuss their past projects, technical expertise, and operational execution capabilities. The emphasis is on practical, on-site experience and the ability to follow established processes and styles.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $42 - $48 per hour.

Benefits:

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

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

• A collaborative team culture where contributions directly impact event success.

Working Hours: Part-time, with a typical expectation of 40 hours per week, often including evenings, weekends, and holidays due to the nature of special events.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hourly rate aligns with skilled technical positions in the San Francisco Bay Area for part-time event roles. The benefits are focused on the work environment and career development rather than traditional corporate benefits, typical for part-time event staff.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Special Event and Wedding Industry (Lighting, Audio, Video, Staging, Drape).

Company Size: The provided data does not specify company size, but the description suggests a company that produces "hundreds of events each year," indicating a significant operation with a dedicated field team.

Founded: Not specified, but described as a company with high employee retention and a fun, dynamic work environment.

Team Structure:

• The DMA works directly under a Design Manager (DM) as part of the field team.

• This role is internally focused; all external client and vendor communication is handled by the DM.

• Collaboration is expected with crew members who are delegated tasks by the DMA.

• Cross-functional interaction is implied with other event production departments (audio, video, staging). Methodology:

• Adherence to Got Light's "Signature Style" is paramount in all technical execution.

• Emphasis on structured event execution, from setup to strike, with clear delegation and communication protocols.

• Focus on technical competence, safety, and efficiency in on-site operations.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is described as fun, dynamic, and team-oriented, with a focus on employee retention. The "Make Art. Have Fun. Be Proud." slogan encapsulates this ethos. The internal-facing nature of the DMA role suggests a structure that prioritizes focused execution and clear reporting lines.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a mid-level operational support position within the event production field team. It offers a pathway for individuals with technical event experience to step into a leadership support role.

Reporting Structure: The DMA reports directly to the Design Manager, who oversees all client-facing aspects and overall project success.

Operations Impact: The DMA's impact is directly tied to the successful technical execution of events, ensuring that the lighting and AV designs are implemented flawlessly on-site, contributing to client satisfaction and the company's reputation for quality.

Growth Opportunities:

• Potential to grow into a Design Manager role or specialize further in lighting design/operation.

• Opportunities to gain extensive experience with a wide range of event types and technical setups.

• Development of leadership skills through crew management and delegation.

• Deepening technical expertise in advanced lighting and AV control systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a practical stepping stone for individuals looking to advance their careers in live event technical production, moving from hands-on execution to a role with some leadership and coordination responsibilities under direct supervision.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is primarily on-site at various event venues throughout the Bay Area, not based in a traditional office.

Office Location(s): San Francisco, CA, with travel required to event sites across the Bay Area.

Workspace Context:

• The work environment is dynamic, fast-paced, and often challenging, involving setup and breakdown in diverse venues under time constraints.

• Access to a wide array of professional lighting, audio, and video equipment.

• Opportunities for direct collaboration with the Design Manager and event crews during install, show, and strike phases.

Work Schedule: Flexible part-time schedule, requiring availability for evenings, weekends, and holidays, which are common for special events and weddings. This schedule requires strong personal time management.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is ideal for individuals who thrive in on-site, hands-on environments and are comfortable with the demanding schedule of the event industry. The work involves physical activity and requires adaptability to different venue conditions.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application Review: Focus on experience with lighting consoles (Leprecon, ColorSource, MA3), power distribution, and prior event production roles.

• Technical Assessment/Interview: Expect questions related to console programming, troubleshooting scenarios, power distribution safety, and your understanding of event production workflows. Be prepared to discuss specific console features and operational best practices.

• On-Site/Field Simulation: Potentially a practical demonstration or discussion of how you would handle specific on-site tasks, crew delegation, or problem-solving situations.

• Cultural Fit Interview: Discussion about your ability to work in a dynamic team environment, follow instructions, and align with Got Light's "Make Art. Have Fun. Be Proud." ethos.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Prepare to discuss specific events where you were responsible for lighting or AV execution. Highlight your technical contributions and how you managed your scope of work.

• Showcase examples of your console programming experience, perhaps through descriptions of cues you programmed or challenges you overcame.

• Detail your understanding of power distribution safety and best practices.

• Be ready to explain your approach to leading and delegating tasks to a crew. Challenge Preparation:

• Anticipate questions about how you would handle common event production challenges, such as equipment failure, tight timelines, or crew coordination issues.

• Prepare to articulate your understanding of Got Light's signature style and how you would ensure adherence to it during execution.

• Be ready to discuss your experience with flexible scheduling and working effectively in a part-time capacity.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely assess technical proficiency, operational execution capabilities, and fit within a high-energy, team-oriented event environment. Candidates should be prepared to speak concretely about their technical skills and on-site experience.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Lighting Consoles: Leprecon, ColorSource, MA3 (primary focus).

• Dimmer Racks: Leppy Dimmer Packs, ETC Sensor Dimmer Racks (12, 24, 48 channel).

• Wireless Control: Astera fixtures (app control, CRMX).

• AV Equipment: Basic audio and video systems for troubleshooting.

• Power Distribution: Various cable types, gauges, meters, generators.

• Lift Equipment: Personnel and scissor lifts.

Analytics & Reporting: While not a data analysis role, reporting on project status and issues to the Design Manager is key.

CRM & Automation: Not directly applicable to this operational role, but familiarity with event management software or project notes may be beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with specific lighting consoles and a strong understanding of power distribution are critical technical requirements. Familiarity with Astera fixtures is also noted.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Technical Excellence: Delivering high-quality lighting and AV execution with precision.

• Collaboration: Working effectively within the field team and supporting the Design Manager.

• Efficiency: Managing time and resources effectively to meet event deadlines.

• Safety: Prioritizing safe work practices in all on-site operations.

• Fun & Pride: Embracing the company's ethos of enjoying the creative process and taking pride in successful events.

Collaboration Style:

• Internal focus, with direct communication and support for the Design Manager.

• Leadership and delegation to event crews for assigned tasks.

• Teamwork is essential for successful event load-in, show, and strike.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture emphasizes a balance between professional execution and a positive, enjoyable work environment, reflecting the "Make Art. Have Fun. Be Proud." motto.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Working in a fast-paced, demanding event environment with tight deadlines and variable conditions.

• Managing multiple technical aspects simultaneously while ensuring adherence to Got Light's signature style.

• Leading and motivating crews effectively, often under pressure.

• Adapting to different venue setups and potential logistical hurdles.

• Maintaining clear and proactive communication with the Design Manager, especially during complex events. Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Deepen expertise in advanced lighting console programming and operation (MA3).

• Gain hands-on experience with a wide array of professional lighting and AV gear.

• Develop leadership and crew management skills in a practical setting.

• Enhance understanding of power distribution, rigging, and event logistics.

• Exposure to high-profile events, offering a chance to learn from experienced professionals.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents challenges inherent to the live event industry but also offers significant opportunities for technical and leadership skill development within a supportive team structure.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your experience with the MA3 console. What are its key features you utilize for event programming?" (Preparation: Review MA3 programming basics, specific features like cues, groups, and effects.)

• "How do you ensure adherence to a specific company's 'signature style' when executing a lighting design on-site?" (Preparation: Discuss your process for understanding design briefs and translating them into technical execution, focusing on attention to detail.)

• "Walk me through your process for managing a small crew on-site for a lighting setup. How do you delegate tasks and ensure everyone is aligned?" (Preparation: Prepare a step-by-step approach to crew management, emphasizing clear communication, task assignment, and problem-solving.)

• "Describe a time you encountered a technical issue with lighting or AV equipment during an event and how you resolved it." (Preparation: Use the STAR method to detail a specific problem, your actions, and the outcome, highlighting troubleshooting skills.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for Got Light and specifically in the special events industry?" (Preparation: Research Got Light's work, review their website and social media, and connect your passion for events and technical production.)

• "How do you approach working in a part-time capacity with flexible hours, including evenings and weekends?" (Preparation: Discuss your organizational skills and ability to manage your schedule effectively to meet the demands of the role.)

• "What does 'Make Art. Have Fun. Be Proud.' mean to you in the context of event production?" (Preparation: Reflect on how you contribute to a positive and productive team environment while delivering high-quality work.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Focus on quantifiable achievements where possible (e.g., successful execution of X number of events, resolution of Y technical issues).

• Be ready to visually describe or show examples of your work if permitted (e.g., photos of setups you managed, descriptions of console patches).

• Emphasize your technical expertise with the specified consoles and equipment.

• Clearly articulate your role in managing crews and ensuring operational efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating technical competence, operational execution skills, leadership potential, and alignment with the company's dynamic and collaborative culture.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Tailor your resume: Highlight your experience with lighting consoles (Leprecon, ColorSource, MA3), power distribution, AV support, and any crew leadership roles. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Prepare your talking points: Be ready to discuss your experience in live event production, your technical proficiency with the required equipment, and your ability to work effectively in a dynamic, on-site environment.

• Research Got Light: Understand their "signature style" and company ethos ("Make Art. Have Fun. Be Proud.") to articulate your fit during interviews.

• Gather examples: Mentally prepare specific examples of projects you've worked on, technical challenges you've overcome, and how you've managed crews.

⚠️ 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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