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Architectural Lighting Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

HDR

Lighting Designer 2

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

Work with project teams on all aspects of the art, science and business of architectural lighting design * Take responsibility for training and providing guidance to maintain CAD/model production ...

HDR

Lighting Designer 2

Philadelphia, PA

Work with project teams on all aspects of the art, science and business of architectural lighting design * Take responsibility for training and providing guidance to maintain CAD/model production ...

legence

Lighting Designer

El Segundo, CA

The ideal candidate will have recent architectural lighting design training, or lighting adjacent design training (interiors / architecture / landscape architecture / theatrical lighting) and 2 - 3 ...

HOK

Architecture Lighting Designer

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

Assists in planning, developing and coordinating integrated interior and exterior architectural lighting design solutions in conjunction with Project Lighting Designer or more senior staff.

W3Global Inc.

Lighting Designer II

Dallas, TX

$85K - $105K/yr

Coordinate & communicate with allied team members (architects, engineers, manufacturers, etc.) * Develop & validate lighting design concepts against project goals & criteria * Plan, produce, and ...

AE Design

Lighting Designer

Denver, CO · On-site

$87K - $99K/yr

Collaborate with clients, consultants, architects, and internal design teams to develop conceptual through detailed lighting designs * Perform photometric calculations and analysis to verify design ...

AE Design

Lighting Designer

Denver, CO · On-site

$87K - $99K/yr

Collaborate with clients, consultants, architects, and internal design teams to develop conceptual through detailed lighting designs * Perform photometric calculations and analysis to verify design ...

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All JobsArchitectural Lighting Design Jobs

Architectural Lighting Design information

See salary details

$49K

$72.8K

$94K

How much do architectural lighting design jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for architectural lighting design in the United States is $72,767.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,000.00 and $80,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Architectural Lighting Design vs Lighting Designer?

AspectArchitectural Lighting DesignLighting Designer
CredentialsDegree in architecture, interior design, or lighting design; certifications like LC or CLDLighting-specific certifications; often holds LC or CLD
Work EnvironmentCollaborates with architects, interior designers on building projectsFocuses on lighting solutions for various spaces, including theaters, events, or architectural projects
Industry UsageUsed in architectural firms, design studios, construction projectsFound in design firms, entertainment, retail, and architectural projects

Architectural Lighting Design involves integrating lighting into building architecture, working closely with architects and interior designers. Lighting Designers focus on creating lighting solutions for specific spaces or events, often with a broader scope beyond architecture. Both roles require specialized knowledge, but Architectural Lighting Design emphasizes building integration, while Lighting Design centers on space ambiance and functionality.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in architectural lighting design, and how can they be addressed?

Architectural lighting designers often encounter challenges such as balancing aesthetic goals with energy efficiency and budget constraints, coordinating with multiple stakeholders, and keeping up with evolving technologies. Successful designers address these challenges by maintaining clear communication with architects, engineers, and clients, staying informed about the latest lighting innovations and codes, and using advanced software for visualization and planning. Proactively managing expectations and collaborating early in the design process can also help ensure that both functional and creative objectives are met.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Architectural Lighting Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Architectural Lighting Designer, you need a deep understanding of lighting principles, architectural concepts, and electrical systems, often supported by a degree in lighting design, architecture, or a related field. Proficiency with lighting simulation software (such as DIALux or AGi32), CAD programs, and knowledge of relevant lighting codes and standards are typically required. Strong communication, creativity, and project management skills help designers collaborate effectively with clients, architects, and engineers. These abilities ensure that lighting solutions are both aesthetically pleasing and functional, enhancing architectural projects and meeting client needs.

What is architectural lighting design?

Architectural lighting design is the art and science of using light to enhance the appearance, functionality, and mood of a building or space. It involves selecting and placing lighting fixtures to complement the architecture, highlight features, ensure safety, and create the desired ambiance. Lighting designers work closely with architects, interior designers, and engineers to develop lighting solutions that are both aesthetically pleasing and energy-efficient. Their work covers various settings, including residential, commercial, and public spaces.
More about Architectural Lighting Design jobs
What cities are hiring for Architectural Lighting Design jobs? Cities with the most Architectural Lighting Design job openings:
What states have the most Architectural Lighting Design jobs? States with the most job openings for Architectural Lighting Design jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Architectural Lighting Design jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Architectural Lighting Design jobs are:
Architectural Lighting Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Architectural Lighting Design job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,767 per year, or $35 per hour.

Lighting Designer

IA Interior Architects

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Position: Lighting Designer
Please include a portfolio or work samples with your application. Experience and skills in Revit are a plus!
IA Interior Architects translates client goals, brand and culture into powerful environments built around people, processes, technologies and business drivers. Our clients in diverse markets worldwide require high-performance, visually compelling and sustainable environments to move their enterprise forward, support their culture, engage their staff, integrate technology and drive efficiencies. As architects, designers, workplace strategists and environmental specialists in the largest global architecture firm concentrating exclusively on interiors, we help clients articulate and align their business strategies and core values with the dynamic use of space.
Our team members are collaborative, creative, professional, expert and entrepreneurial. Joining our team requires skill, daring, leadership, teaming, humor and a love of interiors. We are presently searching for a Lighting Designer for our San Francisco Studio. The Lighting Designer, working under the leadership of a more senior Lighting team member or Project Manager, designs and develops architectural lighting from schematic through construction documents. May also be involved in design strategy and concept development depending on level of experience.
Other responsibilities include:
  • Actively participates in and oversees the design, development and production of Lighting Designs
  • Prepares lighting plans, lighting schedules, specifications, sections, elevations and drawing packages
  • Creates innovative, creative and complete design concepts and may present to clients
  • May mentor the work of Junior and Intermediate Lighting Designers

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Interior Design, Lighting Design, Industrial Design; equivalent experience may be substituted
  • 5+ years of experience or equivalent educational experience: architectural lighting design; custom light fixture design, detailing for lighting and 3D design/visualization

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Demonstrated competency in all phases of architectural lighting
  • Expert knowledge of working drawings and procedures
  • Knowledge of electrical principles as they relate to artificial lighting
  • Intermediate knowledge of lighting control systems, energy codes, and energy-efficient design principles
  • Proven ability to work collaboratively
  • Intermediate presentation and graphic communication skills

As well as Advanced skills and/or knowledge in the following areas:
  • Knowledge of lighting products
  • Sketching and rendering skills
  • Revit skills, a plus
  • Lighting calc skills (AGI132, Elumtools or similiar)
  • Adobe Create Suite skills
  • Verbal and written communication skills

Please submit a portfolio or work examples with your application
Salary: $70,000 - $90,000 annually, pending licensing, education, and industry experience.
Interior Architects, Inc. (IA) provides equal opportunity in all aspects of recruitment and employment to all persons without regard to their race, color, creed, religion or belief, sexual orientation, marital status, nationality, national origin or ancestry, sex, age, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, veteran status, uniformed service member and to promote the full realization of equal employment opportunities.

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