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Associate Lighting Designer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Electrical Designer

Plainfield, IL · On-site

$62K - $74K/yr

... lighting calculations and associated reports. The role reports to the Engineering Manager and ... Associates Degree or 2 year technical degree or equivalent experience preferred. * Typically 3 to 4 ...

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Associate Lighting Designer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$20.1K

$60.3K

$90.1K

How much do associate lighting designer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate lighting designer in Chicago, IL is $60,326.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $70,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate lighting designer?

To thrive as an Associate Lighting Designer, you need a solid understanding of lighting design principles, electrical systems, and a relevant degree or technical training in theater, architecture, or lighting design. Familiarity with lighting control consoles, CAD software (such as AutoCAD or Vectorworks), and visualization tools is typically required. Creativity, strong communication, and attention to detail are crucial soft skills for collaborating with design teams and translating artistic visions into practical solutions. These skills ensure effective project execution, aesthetic impact, and safety in diverse performance or architectural environments.

What is an associate lighting designer?

Associate Lighting Designers are professionals who assist the lead Lighting Designer in developing and implementing the lighting vision for theatre, film, television, or live events. Their responsibilities often include creating lighting plots, managing equipment, coordinating with production teams, and ensuring the lighting design is executed correctly. They may also handle technical aspects, supervise crew members, and step in for the lead designer when needed. This role requires both creative and technical skills, as well as the ability to collaborate effectively with other departments.

What are some common challenges faced by associate lighting designers when working on large-scale productions?

Associate Lighting Designers on large-scale productions often face challenges such as coordinating with multiple departments, managing rapid changes during technical rehearsals, and ensuring the lead designer's vision is executed accurately within tight timelines. They must also adapt to evolving production needs and troubleshoot unexpected technical issues. Effective communication, flexibility, and strong organizational skills are crucial for navigating these high-pressure environments and contributing to a successful show.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lighting Designer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Lighting Designer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Associate Lighting Designer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,326 per year, or $29 per hour.

Electrical Designer

CB&I

Plainfield, IL • On-site

$62K - $74K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Company Overview
CB&I delivers integrated storage and asset-management solutions that help customers operate safely, reliably, and efficiently across the lifecycle of their facilities. Through our two global business units - Storage Solutions, the world leader in tanks, terminals, and storage systems, and Asset Solutions, a leading provider of operations, management, wells and decommissioning services - we combine technical excellence with execution capability to extend asset life, optimize performance, and maximize value.
Overview
The Electrical Designer is responsible for developing the electrical scope within a 3D Model environment and utilizing the software to generate the assigned electrical discipline deliverables for a CB&I Storage Solutions project associated with the Low Temperature and Cryogenic Storage Tank product line.
The work includes among other things development of Electrical block diagrams, Electrical wiring diagrams, Electrical location drawings, Electrical Cable Schedule, Electrical Installation details, Bulk material take offs, general drafting and development of lighting calculations and associated reports. The role reports to the Engineering Manager and routinely interacts with other discipline engineers and designers such as: Project, Process, Mechanical, Piping, Instrumentation and Structural.
Responsibilities
  • Coordinate with other disciplines
  • Read and understand design criteria for specified design
  • Gather supporting documents and information for assigned tasks
  • Review and understand supplier and subcontractor documentation
  • Able to populate the SmartPlant 3D environment with the requisite electrical information and use it to generate engineering deliverables
  • Review design deliverables
  • Utilize project and National Codes and specifications in execution of design

Qualifications
  • High School diploma or equivalent with some college required.
  • Associates Degree or 2 year technical degree or equivalent experience preferred.
  • Typically 3 to 4 years' experience with design modelling, drafting and design
  • Proficient in current engineering design and drafting software (Autocad®, Microstation®)
  • Has experience with 3D design using SmartPlant 3D®
  • Understanding of NFPA 70, NEC and IEC codes is beneficial
  • Understanding of electrical equipment and materials installed in hazardous environments is beneficial
  • Background in programming ladder/relay logic and/or process control and instrumentation is a plus
  • Working knowledge of the chemical processing / oil & gas industries is highly desired
  • Working knowledge of industrial design including basic wiring and circuit design, electrical wiring troubleshooting, and industrial controls.

Skills and Behaviors
  • Knowledge of CB&I products and markets
  • Proactively identifies and solves the complex problems
  • Mentally agile and ability to multi-task and manage tight deadlines
  • High emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills
  • Adaptability and agility to learn and contribute in varying and complex environments
  • Good communication and presentation skill, both written and verbal
  • Proactively embraces and promotes the company's values and culture, including diversity & inclusion and a healthy and safe work environment
  • Familiar with SmartPlant 3D®
  • Familiar with MicroStation®
  • Familiar with Microsoft Office applications (Excel®, Word®)
  • Organizational Level: T2
  • Reports to: Engineering Manager
  • Direct Reports: None
  • Permanent work location: Plainfield, IL Engineering Office

Benefits:
CB&I is proud to offer eligible employees a robust package of benefits, including major medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k)-matching program, FSA/HSA programs, long- and short-term disability options, life insurance, and AD&D. We also offer eligible employees paid holidays and paid time off. Benefits eligibility for permanent positions may vary by full-time or part-time roles, location, or position.
In accordance with applicable local and state laws or regulations, the compensation listed is the current estimated range for the position. Final offer details and future compensation may be determined by multiple factors, including, but not limited to, geographic location, market compensation data, skills, experience, and other relevant factors. Please discuss any compensation-related questions with your recruiter during the interview process.
Pay Range:
USD $62,000.00-$74,600.00/ Annually