Tell me about a time when you had to troubleshoot a complex lighting issue and how you resolved it.

Sample answer to the question

In a recent production, we encountered a complex lighting issue where a group of floodlights suddenly stopped working. I quickly assessed the situation by checking the power supply, cables, and connections. After ruling out any electrical issues, I decided to investigate the dimmer rack. I discovered that one of the dimmers controlling the floodlights had burned out, causing the entire group to malfunction. I promptly replaced the faulty dimmer and tested the floodlights to ensure they were working correctly. This resolved the issue, and the show continued without any further problems.

A more solid answer

During a live event, I encountered a complex lighting issue when a section of automated lights malfunctioned. To troubleshoot, I first checked the lighting plot and technical drawings to understand the setup. Upon inspecting the fixtures, I realized it was a DMX communication issue. I connected a DMX tester to identify the faulty cable and discovered a damaged connector. I swiftly replaced the connector and ensured a smooth communication flow. However, to prevent future issues, I updated the labeling system for all cables, improving the organization and troubleshooting process for the team.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer provides more detailed insights into the candidate's troubleshooting process, including relevant technical knowledge (DMX protocols) and problem-solving initiatives (improving the cable labeling system). It also addresses the evaluation areas more comprehensively.

An exceptional answer

In a production with a complex lighting setup, we faced a challenging issue when a particular color wash fixture was producing inconsistent colors. I began by examining the fixture's control settings and discovered that the software was not properly calibrated for that specific model. To resolve this, I researched and found a firmware update that addressed the color inconsistency. I installed the update and meticulously tested the fixture's color range to ensure accurate and consistent results. Additionally, I documented the firmware update process for future reference, helping the team efficiently troubleshoot similar issues in the future.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer goes above and beyond by showcasing the candidate's expertise in lighting software and firmware updates. It demonstrates their ability to research and find solutions independently, as well as their dedication to documenting processes for future reference. The answer provides a comprehensive solution while addressing the evaluation areas and job requirements in great detail.

How to prepare for this question

Familiarize yourself with lighting design software and firmware updates to stay updated on the latest advancements in the field.
Practice interpreting lighting plots and technical drawings to quickly identify and troubleshoot complex lighting issues.
Develop a solid understanding of DMX protocols and communication systems to effectively diagnose connectivity problems.
Stay updated on current electrical systems and safety practices to ensure compliance with regulations and minimize potential hazards.
Consider past experiences where you successfully resolved lighting issues and think about the lessons learned from those situations.

What interviewers are evaluating

Advanced knowledge of lighting equipment, systems, and software
Ability to read and interpret lighting plots and technical drawings
Familiarity with electrical systems and safety practices