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Event Ready

Industry Snapshot: The Live Events Sector

Why the Events Industry Matters?

• Live events are a £70 billion contributor to the UK economy every year.

• The sector includes concerts, theatre, festivals, conferences, sports, exhibitions, and more.

• Manchester is one of the UK’s leading cultural hubs, home to Aviva Studios, AO Arena, Manchester International Festival, Parklife, and countless theatres and music venues.

Industry Snapshot: The Live Events Sector

Jobs and Opportunities

• Over 1 million people are employed across the UK’s live events and creative industries.

• Roles range from technical crew (lighting, sound, staging) to creative, logistics, and management.

• Events rely on behind-the-scenes teams to make the “magic” happen every gig, show, or festival needs skilled technicians.

Industry Snapshot: The Live Events Sector

Demand for New Talent

• The industry faces a skills shortage: more trained crew are needed as demand for live events grows.

• Employers are actively looking for young people with practical skills, teamwork, and enthusiasm.

• Entry-level opportunities often start with freelance work, casual crew shifts, or apprenticeships building into sustainable careers.

A Day In The Life.

'A day at Factory International is never the same as we put on so many different shows.'

Simon (Stage Technician)

Factory International Technicians.

Listen to some of the Factory International Technicians and what got them interested about the industry and some helpful advice they would give to someone starting thier tech journey.

What Role Is Best For You?

Answer the questions below and find out which backstage role might be the best fit for you.

Start

In a group project, what role do you naturally take on?

The Problem Solver

The Creative

The Helper

The Organiser

I like making sure everything runs smoothly.

I jump in when something goes wrong.

I love coming up with visual or technical ideas.

I prefer supporting others and getting stuck in.

Which of these sounds most exciting to you?

Being backstage, making sure everything is safe and on time.

Designing or running lights that transform the space.

Controlling the sound so the music feels amazing.

Setting up the stage before the audience arrives.

What’s your attitude towards technology?

I’m open to trying anything practical if I get shown how.

I’m not a tech whizz but I like being hands-on.

I enjoy experimenting with sound or visuals.

I like learning how things work, even if it’s complex.

When under pressure, how do you usually respond?

I work hard to support the team and keep things moving.

I focus on the details to make sure things look/sound right.

I thrive on the buzz and excitement.

I stay calm and focus on solutions.

You are

Stage/Production Crew

You’re organised, reliable, and thrive on making things run smoothly. You’d shine in stage management or crew roles where teamwork and planning are key.

Next

You are

Sound Technician

You’ve got an ear for detail and love the buzz of live sound. Mixing tracks, balancing instruments, or controlling microphones could be your path.

Next

You are

Lighting Technician

You’re creative and technical, with an eye for design. Lights, colours, and effects are your toolkit to wow audiences.

Next

You are

All-Rounder (Crew/Support Roles)

You’re practical, adaptable, and a great team player. You’d fit into many backstage roles and could grow into any technical specialism.

Next

Technicians

What Job Is For You?

Sound Technicians

Lighting Technicians

Technical Coordinator

Sound Engineer (Live Sound)

Light Technicians Roadmap (Click Me)

Technical Coordinator

Sound Engineer (Live Sound)​

Sound Technicians

Lighting Technicians

Sound Technicians Roadmap (Click Me)

Technical Coordinator Roadmap (Click Me)

Sound Engineer Roadmap (Click Me)

Next

Light Technicians Roadmap.

Lighting Operator / Programmer

Lighting Designer

Lighting Trainee

Lighting Technician

Lighting Crew Chief / Senior Tech

Go Back

Lighting Trainee(Entry-Level)

An entry-level position focused on learning the basics of lighting and supporting experienced technicians during setups and shows. What you do:

• Assist with rigging, cabling, and packing down lighting equipment.

• Observe and support focusing sessions under supervision.

• Learn how to handle lights, cables, and tools safely.

• Clean, test, and maintain lighting fixtures and accessories.

• Help label, store, and organize lighting equipment.

• Shadow technicians and operators to understand workflow and show procedures.

Gain practical experience, technical confidence, and safety awareness to move up to a Lighting Technician role.

Lighting Trainee

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Lighting Technician

Handles the setup, operation, and maintenance of lighting systems for rehearsals, live performances, and events. What you do:

• Install and connect lighting fixtures, dimmers, and control lines.

• Operate lights during rehearsals and performances.

• Focus and adjust fixtures according to lighting plans.

• Perform regular maintenance and minor repairs on equipment.

• Troubleshoot lighting faults and replace damaged components.

• Assist designers, programmers, and crew chiefs during productions.

Build strong technical skills and reliability to operate lighting systems independently and contribute to professional productions.

Lighting Trainee

Lighting Technician

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Lighting Operator / Programmer

Operates and programs lighting consoles to bring the lighting designer’s creative vision to life through precise cue execution. What you do:

• Program and edit lighting cues, sequences, and effects on control consoles.

• Operate lighting systems during live shows, events, or recordings.

• Collaborate closely with the lighting designer during rehearsals.

• Adjust cue timings, colors, and transitions to enhance performance quality.

• Troubleshoot console, DMX, or fixture communication issues.

• Save and manage show files and backup configurations.

Deliver seamless and expressive lighting control that enhances each production’s visual atmosphere and timing.

Lighting Trainee

Lighting Technician

Lighting Operator / Programmer

Go Back

Lighting Crew Chief / Senior Tech

Leads the lighting team, ensuring all equipment is installed safely, correctly, and on schedule for each production. What you do:

• Supervise lighting crew during rigging, focusing, and de-rigging.

• Coordinate with designers, operators, and production management.

• Oversee safety checks and ensure compliance with regulations.

• Manage equipment maintenance, inventory, and repairs.

• Schedule crew tasks and allocate equipment for each project.

• Solve on-site technical problems quickly and efficiently.

Ensure smooth, safe, and professional lighting operations while supporting both the creative and technical goals of the production.

Lighting Trainee

Lighting Technician

Lighting Operator / Programmer

Lighting Crew Chief / Senior Tech

Go Back

Lighting Designer

Creates the visual design and mood of a production through creative use of color, angles, and lighting effects. What you do:

• Develop lighting concepts that complement the script, music, and set design.

• Design lighting plots, cue sheets, and documentation for productions.

• Select fixtures, gels, and lighting technologies to achieve desired effects.

• Lead focus sessions and collaborate with the operator to program cues.

• Adjust lighting looks during rehearsals to refine visual impact.

• Work closely with directors, set, and sound designers to maintain artistic unity.

Craft expressive and cohesive lighting designs that elevate the story, mood, and aesthetic of the production.

Lighting Trainee

Lighting Technician

Lighting Operator / Programmer

Lighting Crew Chief / Senior Tech

Lighting Designer

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Sound Technicians Roadmap.

Monitor Engineer

Sound Trainee / Stagehand (Entry-Level)

Sound Designer/System Engineer

Sound Technician

Front of House (FOH) Engineer

Go Back

Sound Trainee / Stagehand (Entry-Level)

An entry-level position where you learn the basics of live or studio sound by assisting experienced technicians. What you do:

• Help set up and pack down microphones, speakers, and cabling.

• Assist in positioning and testing microphones and monitors.

• Run cables safely and organize stage and backstage equipment.

• Learn basic soundboard operations and signal flow.

• Clean and maintain audio equipment after use.

• Shadow senior technicians to understand workflow and troubleshooting.

Build foundational knowledge and hands-on experience to progress to a Sound Technician role.

Sound Trainee / Stagehand (Entry-Level)

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Sound Technician

Responsible for operating and maintaining audio equipment during rehearsals and live events. What you do:

• Set up and connect microphones, speakers, amplifiers, and mixers.

• Conduct sound checks and balance levels for performers.

• Troubleshoot faulty cables, mics, or speakers.

• Maintain and repair basic audio equipment.

• Monitor and adjust sound quality during performances.

• Support FOH or monitor engineers during complex shows.

Gain technical proficiency and reliability in live sound operations to advance to specialized engineering roles.

Sound Trainee / Stagehand (Entry-Level)

Sound Technician

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Monitor Engineer

Manages on-stage sound for performers, ensuring they hear themselves and the mix clearly. What you do:

• Set up and operate stage monitors and in-ear monitor (IEM) systems.

• Mix live sound feeds specifically for performers on stage.

• Adjust monitor levels and EQ during rehearsals and shows.

• Troubleshoot on-stage sound issues quickly.

• Communicate with performers and FOH engineers to optimize mixes.

• Maintain monitor equipment and cables.

Ensure performers hear a balanced mix, improving performance quality and on-stage confidence.

Sound Trainee / Stagehand (Entry-Level)

Sound Technician

Monitor Engineer

Go Back

Front of House (FOH) Engineer

Controls the main sound mix that the audience hears, balancing levels, effects, and overall audio quality. What you do:

• Operate the main mixing console during live performances.

• Adjust levels, EQ, dynamics, and effects to deliver a clear, balanced mix.

• Conduct sound checks with performers and troubleshoot issues.

• Collaborate with monitor engineers and performers for consistent audio.

• Maintain and organize FOH audio equipment.

• Record or manage live audio feeds when required.

Deliver an immersive, high-quality audio experience for the audience that supports the performance.

Sound Trainee / Stagehand (Entry-Level)

Sound Technician

Monitor Engineer

Front of House (FOH) Engineer

Go Back

Sound Designer / System Engineer

Creates the overall soundscape for productions, designing audio effects, layouts, and systems for live or recorded events. What you do:

• Design sound concepts and effects that enhance storytelling and mood.

• Plan speaker layouts, PA systems, and acoustic treatments for venues.

• Select microphones, mixers, and audio processors for the production.

• Lead the setup, programming, and tuning of sound systems.

• Collaborate with directors, designers, and engineers to integrate sound creatively.

• Oversee complex productions, ensuring technical and artistic quality.

Craft immersive and cohesive sound experiences that enhance both the audience and performer experience.

Sound Trainee / Stagehand (Entry-Level)

Sound Technician

Monitor Engineer

Front of House (FOH) Engineer

Sound Designer/System Engineer

Go Back

Sound Engineer (Live Sound) Roadmap.

Monitor Engineer

Sound Trainee / Stage Crew (Entry Level)

System Engineer / Sound Designer

Junior Sound Tech/Assistant Sound Engineer

FOH (Front of House) Sound Engineer

Go Back

Sound Trainee / Stage Crew (Entry Level)

An introductory role focused on learning the basics of live sound and supporting experienced engineers during setups and events. What you do:

• Assist with setting up and packing down microphones, speakers, and cabling.

• Run cables neatly and safely across stage and venue areas.

• Help test microphones, DI boxes, and playback systems.

• Observe and support sound checks under supervision.

• Maintain, clean, and organize audio equipment and cases.

• Learn the basics of signal flow, mixing desks, and stage layouts.

Gain hands-on experience and technical understanding to move into a junior technician or assistant engineer role.

Sound Trainee / Stage Crew (Entry Level)

Go Back

Junior Sound Tech/Assistant Sound Engineer

A developing role where you assist senior engineers with system setup, testing, and operation during rehearsals and shows. What you do:

• Set up microphones, monitors, amplifiers, and signal processors.

• Patch audio signals between the stage, desk, and outboard gear.

• Assist FOH and monitor engineers during sound checks.

• Diagnose and fix basic audio or cabling issues.

• Operate small-scale sound systems under supervision.

• Learn mixing techniques and digital console operation.

Strengthen technical and operational skills to handle live audio confidently and prepare for specialist mixing roles.

Sound Trainee / Stage Crew (Entry Level)

Junior Sound Tech/Assistant Sound Engineer

Go Back

Monitor Engineer

Responsible for delivering clear, balanced mixes to performers on stage through monitors or in-ear systems. What you do:

• Set up and operate monitor consoles and in-ear monitor (IEM) systems.

• Mix separate monitor feeds tailored to each performer’s needs.

• Adjust EQ, levels, and effects in real time during performances.

• Communicate with musicians to ensure comfort and clarity on stage.

• Troubleshoot signal, feedback, or connection issues quickly.

• Maintain and test stage monitor systems between shows.

Provide performers with precise and reliable on-stage sound to ensure confident, high-quality performances.

Sound Trainee / Stage Crew (Entry Level)

Junior Sound Tech/Assistant Sound Engineer

Monitor Engineer

Go Back

FOH (Front of House) Sound Engineer

Controls the overall mix that the audience hears, balancing clarity, dynamics, and tone to create the best possible sound experience. What you do:

• Operate the main mixing console during rehearsals and live events.

• Conduct sound checks, balance levels, and fine-tune EQ across instruments and vocals.

• Manage effects, dynamics, and transitions throughout the performance.

• Collaborate with the monitor engineer to maintain consistent sound between stage and audience.

• Oversee and maintain all FOH equipment, amplifiers, and processors.

• Adapt quickly to venue acoustics and audience response.

Deliver a polished, high-quality mix that enhances the audience’s experience and reflects the performers’ artistic intent.

Sound Trainee / Stage Crew (Entry Level)

Junior Sound Tech/Assistant Sound Engineer

Monitor Engineer

FOH (Front of House) Sound Engineer

Go Back

System Engineer / Sound Designer

Oversees the design, setup, and optimization of audio systems or creates the overall sound concept for productions. What you do:

• Design and configure PA systems and audio signal networks for venues or tours.

• Calibrate and tune sound systems for optimal coverage and clarity.

• Plan and implement acoustic design or sound effects for productions.

• Select and position microphones, speakers, and processing equipment.

• Collaborate with directors, FOH engineers, and production teams on sound aesthetics.

• Troubleshoot and maintain large-scale system performance during events.

Ensure the sound system and design deliver maximum impact, clarity, and artistic quality across every performance or production.

Sound Trainee / Stage Crew (Entry Level)

Junior Sound Tech/Assistant Sound Engineer

Monitor Engineer

FOH (Front of House) Sound Engineer

System Engineer / Sound Designer

Go Back

Technical Coordinator Roadmap.

Assistant Technical Coordinator/Crew Chief

Senior Technical Manager / Production Technical Director

Stagehand /Junior Technician (Entry Level)

Technical Coordinator / Technical Manager

Multi-skilled Technician / Show Tech

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Stagehand/Junior Technician (Entry Level)

An introductory role focused on assisting technical departments with the setup, operation, and pack-down of equipment for productions and events. What you do:

• Help load in and load out lighting, sound, video, and staging equipment.

• Run and tape down cables safely across performance areas.

• Assist technicians during setup, rehearsals, and performances.

• Maintain and organize backstage areas, tools, and gear.

• Learn basic rigging, electrical, and safety procedures.

• Support quick scene or equipment changes during shows.

Build a strong technical foundation and understanding of live production workflows to move into a multi-skilled technician role.

Stagehand /Junior Technician (Entry Level)

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Multi-skilled Technician / Show Tech

A hands-on role operating and maintaining various technical systems — lighting, sound, video, or stage — during events and productions. What you do:

• Set up, test, and operate multiple technical systems for shows.

• Handle troubleshooting during rehearsals and live performances.

• Assist with rigging, power distribution, and control systems.

• Perform maintenance and inspections on technical equipment.

• Follow production documentation and cue sheets accurately.

• Collaborate with other departments to ensure smooth show operation.

Develop a broad technical skillset and reliability to take on leadership or specialist roles within the production team.

Stagehand /Junior Technician (Entry Level)

Multi-skilled Technician / Show Tech

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Assistant Technical Coordinator/Crew Chief

Supports the technical manager or coordinator by supervising small teams and ensuring technical setups are completed safely and efficiently. What you do:

• Lead small technical teams during setup and pack-down.

• Coordinate between lighting, sound, and staging departments.

• Ensure all equipment and cabling are installed safely and correctly.

• Assist with scheduling, logistics, and crew organization.

• Communicate with stage management and production teams.

• Provide technical support during rehearsals and performances.

Gain leadership and coordination experience to progress into a full Technical Coordinator or Manager position.

Stagehand /Junior Technician (Entry Level)

Multi-skilled Technician / Show Tech

Assistant Technical Coordinator/Crew Chief

Go Back

Technical Coordinator/Technical Manager

Oversees the technical planning, setup, and operation of productions, ensuring all departments work together efficiently and safely. What you do:

• Manage all technical elements of productions from planning to execution.

• Coordinate lighting, sound, video, and stage departments.

• Create and manage schedules, budgets, and crew assignments.

• Oversee equipment maintenance, safety checks, and compliance.

• Solve complex technical issues and adapt to production needs.

• Liaise with designers, directors, and production management.

Ensure all technical aspects of productions run smoothly, safely, and on schedule while meeting artistic and operational requirements.

Stagehand /Junior Technician (Entry Level)

Multi-skilled Technician / Show Tech

Assistant Technical Coordinator/Crew Chief

Technical Coordinator / Technical Manager

Go Back

Senior Technical Manager/Production Technical Director

A senior leadership role responsible for overseeing all technical and production operations across multiple shows, venues, or large-scale projects.

• What you do:

• Lead technical planning and execution for major events or tours.

• Manage technical teams, budgets, and resource allocation.

• Supervise safety compliance, risk assessments, and venue standards.

• Oversee integration of all technical departments and systems.

• Advise on equipment investments, upgrades, and logistics planning.

• Collaborate with producers, creative teams, and venue management.

Provide strategic technical leadership and ensure all productions achieve the highest professional and safety standards across every department.

Stagehand /Junior Technician (Entry Level)

Multi-skilled Technician / Show Tech

Assistant Technical Coordinator/Crew Chief

Technical Coordinator / Technical Manager

Senior Technical Manager / Production Technical Director

Go Back

Student Voices

'Event Ready has given me the confidence I have needed to work in the events industry.'

Event ready Student Voices.

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