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Architectural Lighting Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lighting Designer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

IA Interior Architects translates client goals, brand and culture into powerful environments built ... The Lighting Designer, working under the leadership of a more senior Lighting team member or ...

Lighting Designer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$70K - $90K/yr

IA Interior Architects translates client goals, brand and culture into powerful environments built ... The Lighting Designer, working under the leadership of a more senior Lighting team member or ...

Work with project teams on all aspects of the art, science and business of architectural lighting ... Certified Lighting Designer (CLD) through IALD * Master's degree in Architectural Lighting or ...

Work with project teams on all aspects of the art, science and business of architectural lighting ... Certified Lighting Designer (CLD) through IALD * Master's degree in Architectural Lighting or ...

Work with project teams on all aspects of the art, science and business of architectural lighting ... Certified Lighting Designer (CLD) through IALD * Master's degree in Architectural Lighting or ...

This is not a traditional theatrical or architectural lighting design position. Success in this ... Designers during project development. • Participate in brainstorming sessions and creative ...

Senior Lighting Designer (Chicago)

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$85 - $105/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This Senior Lighting Designer position would service The Lighting Practice's Chicago office. We are ... At least seven years of experience in the architectural lighting industry * Poised and persuasive ...

New

Lighting Designer

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$72K - $88K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Designer to join our team ... The ideal candidate will have recent architectural lighting design training, or lighting adjacent ...

Lighting Designer

Mankato, MN · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Partner with architects, interior designers, and engineers to align lighting strategies with overall project goals * Design innovative lighting concepts that elevate aesthetics, enhance functionality ...

Residential Lighting Designer

Denver, CO · On-site

$72K - $77K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are inspired by the artistry of light and its impact on the natural and architectural ... As IALD lighting designers, we are free to specify the best products from any manufacturer. Where ...

This role is ideal for a designer who enjoys collaborating with architects and project teams, refining details, and growing into expanded responsibility and leadership within lighting and control ...

Lighting Designer

Nashville, TN · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

This role is ideal for a designer who enjoys collaborating with architects and project teams, refining details, and growing into expanded responsibility and leadership within lighting and control ...

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Architectural Lighting Designer information

See salary details

$40.5K

$74.5K

$111K

How much do architectural lighting designer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for architectural lighting designer in the United States is $74,539.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,000.00 and $85,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an architectural lighting designer?

Architectural Lighting Designers are professionals who specialize in planning and implementing lighting systems for buildings and outdoor environments. They work with architects, interior designers, and engineers to create lighting solutions that enhance both the functionality and aesthetics of spaces. Their expertise covers technical knowledge of lighting technology, energy efficiency, and how lighting affects human experience. They ensure that lighting supports the design intent, safety, and sustainability goals of a project.

How does an architectural lighting designer typically collaborate with architects and engineers during a project?

Architectural Lighting Designers work closely with architects and engineers from the early conceptual stages through project completion. They attend coordination meetings to understand the building's design intent, discuss technical requirements, and ensure their lighting solutions align with architectural aesthetics and functional needs. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as Lighting Designers often provide detailed drawings, specifications, and mock-ups, while responding to feedback from the broader design team to refine their proposals. This collaborative process helps create cohesive, energy-efficient, and visually appealing lighting environments.

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 solid background in lighting design principles, architecture, and visual arts, typically supported by a degree in architecture, interior design, or related fields. Proficiency in lighting simulation software (such as DIALux, AGi32, or Revit), AutoCAD, and knowledge of building codes and sustainability standards is essential. Creativity, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help distinguish top performers in this role. These skills ensure that lighting solutions are both aesthetically pleasing and functional, meeting clients’ needs and regulatory requirements.

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

AspectArchitectural Lighting DesignerLighting Designer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in architecture, interior design, or lighting design; certifications like LC or LC+ are commonOften holds a degree in lighting design, interior design, or related fields; certifications like LC or LC+ are also common
Work EnvironmentWorks on building exteriors, interiors, and architectural projects within construction or design firmsWorks on various projects including theatrical, event, or commercial lighting, often in entertainment or production settings
Industry UsageUsed primarily in architecture, construction, and design industries for building projectsUsed in entertainment, events, and specialized lighting projects

Architectural Lighting Designers focus on integrating lighting into building architecture, working closely with architects and interior designers. Lighting Designers often work on entertainment, theatrical, or event lighting, with a broader scope outside traditional architecture. Both roles require similar credentials but differ in work environment and project focus.

Are architectural lighting designers in demand?

Architectural lighting designers are in demand due to the growing focus on energy efficiency, sustainability, and aesthetic quality in building design. They often work alongside architects and engineers, utilizing tools like CAD and lighting simulation software, and certification such as LEED can enhance job prospects.

How do you become an architectural lighting designer?

To become an architectural lighting designer, typically a bachelor's degree in architecture, interior design, or a related field is required. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions, developing skills in lighting design software like Dialux or Revit, and obtaining professional certifications such as the LC or CLD can enhance career prospects.

How much does an architectural lighting designer make?

The average salary for an architectural lighting designer in the United States ranges from $50,000 to $90,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Senior designers or those with specialized skills and certifications can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $100,000 per year.
More about Architectural Lighting Designer jobs

What cities are hiring for Architectural Lighting Designer jobs?

Cities with the most Architectural Lighting Designer job openings:

What states have the most Architectural Lighting Designer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Architectural Lighting Designer jobs include:

Infographic showing various Architectural Lighting Designer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,539 per year, or $35.8 per hour.

Architectural Lighting Designer

Tirschwell & Co, Inc

Manhattan, NY • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Tirschwell & Co., Inc. is looking for a full-time lighting designer who is keen to detail and has two to four years of relevant work experience in residential or commercial lighting design.

The candidate will be well organized, resourceful, dedicated, and have excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills. The candidate should aspire to rise in their profession and witness their projects come to life, in person.

At TLD we want you to be the best you. Our mission is to see our projects come into actuality while giving you the opportunity to build yourself up in the lighting sector. If you have an excellent resume, meet the requirements, and are ready to make a change to a company that values what you bring to the table, we are excited to speak with you.

Look, any lighting design firm will have pretty photos of past projects. That is great, but it doesn't give you a sense of the culture and vibe of the office. So ask around. Ask the sales reps if you know any of the following: Ho-San Chang, Jennifer Mason, Matthew Dacey, Jason Leeds, Mark Gold, or Asher Schoenberg.

After you send in your resume and if we do contact you, the first interview is with Matthew Tirschwell. But you are the interviewer. You get to ask the questions. We want you to be excited about what we do here. And then, if you think this could be the right place for you to grow, then you tell us if you would like to continue the interview process.

The position of lighting designer requires exceptional architectural and lighting knowledge from both academia and professional experience.

The ideal candidate will have:

• A degree in architecture, engineering, interior design, or lighting design is preferred.

Work experience in residential and commercial projects with an understanding and interest in lighting design.

• Superb AutoCAD (not Vectorworks) and Adobe Suite skills

• For our commercial studio, Revit and AGI experience

• Working knowledge of Sketchup

• Appreciation for design and an exceptional eye for detail.

• Ability to problem solve and make decisions based on many different conditions.

• Excellent communication skills.

The candidate must be legal to work in the United States from day one.

These are just a few of the responsibilities:

The designer will join several top lighting designers working on extremely high-end residential, corporate, hospitality, and landscape projects

• Work collaboratively as a team member of TLD on multiple projects.

• Actively participate in all levels of design, from research to completion.

• Produce lighting designs via CAD or Revit layouts, including lighting details, light fixture specifications, mock-ups, renderings, and lighting control specifications.

• Engage in the final aiming of lighting fixtures and programming lighting controls at the project site.

And most importantly, you will represent TLD to industry partners.