Freelance firework display operator

Established firework display companies and event organisers who need extra trained crew in busy periods.

A day rate or fee per show. Work is seasonal, so income is lumpy, with most shows clustered in a few peak weeks.

• Safety-minded and calm under pressure
• Following a detailed plan and instructions
• Physical fitness for carrying kit and working outdoors at night

• Check whether the companies you work for cover you under their insurance, or whether you need your own public liability cover
• Professional display fireworks are tightly controlled under explosives law; check what you can and cannot handle or store yourself
• Shows can be cancelled for weather, so check how you are paid if that happens
• Late nights, outdoor work and seasonal gaps make this hard to rely on as sole income at first

Startup costs are typically around £400 to £2,000, depending on the training you choose, protective clothing and kit, and any insurance you take out yourself. Costs depend on what each display company expects you to bring.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £400 to £2,000, depending on how many shows you crew. Work is busiest around Bonfire Night, New Year and summer events, so it can be hard to rely on as sole income at first.

Check whether the companies you work for cover you under their insurance or whether you need your own public liability cover. Check what you can handle or store under explosives law, and how you are paid if weather cancels a show.