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Console Operator

Programmes and runs the lighting desk (DMX/network) on set or in studio so cues, levels and movers track the DoP/Gaffer brief.

Duties

• Read the call sheet and sides before arriving
• Maintain radio/set etiquette and H&S
• Hand over notes/kit status at wrap
• Programme cues and looks
• Operate desk on shoot days
• Back up showfiles

Reports to

Gaffer / Best Boy

Works with

Sparks, Camera/DoP, Video Assist, studio gallery on TV

Career path

Spark → Desk Op → Senior Console Op

Day to day

Patch and address fixtures; build palettes/cues; run looks during takes; save showfiles; coordinate focus notes with sparks; protect backups.

Call times

Lighting/pre-light call is often earlier than general unit; shoot sparks usually match unit call (commonly 07:00–08:00 on UK drama) and wrap after camera unless a lighting wrap is called. Night exteriors flip the day — always read the call sheet header.

What to wear

Matte blacks; steel toe-caps or production-approved boots; gloves for hot lamps; hard hat on rigs; hi-vis when Locations require; weather layers for UK exteriors; radio pouch.

Tools & kit

USB drives, laptop for offline editors, console keys if issued.

Tips

Confirm title, agreement, budget band, prep/wrap and kit fee on the deal memo before accepting. We never invent Bectu figures — check bectu.org.uk ratecards / your branch.

Software

• ETC Eos / grandMA2/3 offline editors (vendor)
• Lightwright
• ChatGPT for syntax reminders (verify on desk)
• Lightwright / Vectorworks / CAD plot PDFs
• Shared call sheets (StudioBinder / Yamdu / PDF)
• ShotDeck / PureRef for look refs
• DMX desk familiarity (ETC Eos, grandMA basics)
• ChatGPT / Claude for quick gel/CCT notes (verify on set)

Bectu rate cards for this role are in the app.

Related roles

Gaffer

More Lighting roles