A lighting tech is always the best way to go. But I'm a live sound engineer/live sound production company. I'm constantly advising bands to NOT do their own sound and lighting because the results tend to stretch the band thin and the performance will suffer.
Chances are, if you hire a lighting guy, you'll want to give up some amount of control to that individual. That's OK if they are listening to what you want done. I always feel dedicated specialists is the best way to go, be it lighting or sound. The best area to cut corners on is instrument techs for now, they are largely not needed at this level. That's not to say you shouldn't give your rigs an annual once-over.
On the positive side, you didn't waste money on gear that won't work for you.