ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Lighting Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Gordon Prill

Electrical Designer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

Gordon Prill, Inc. has an opening for an Entry Level Electrical Engineering Designer to participate ... lighting and lighting control systems, emergency/standby and cogeneration generator systems ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsConstruction JobsElectrical JobsElectrical Systems Designer JobsEntry Level Lighting Designer Jobs

Entry Level Lighting Designer information

What does an entry level lighting designer do?

An entry level lighting designer assists in creating lighting plans for various environments, such as theaters, concerts, architectural spaces, or events. They work under the guidance of senior designers to select lighting fixtures, create layouts, and use design software to visualize concepts. Their tasks often include preparing technical drawings, collaborating with other design professionals, and sometimes helping with the setup and programming of lighting systems. This role is a great starting point for those interested in the artistic and technical aspects of lighting design.

What are some typical projects and responsibilities for an entry level lighting designer?

As an entry level lighting designer, you will often support senior designers on a variety of projects, such as architectural, theatrical, commercial, or event lighting. Your daily tasks may include preparing lighting plans, creating 3D renderings, assisting with fixture selection, and coordinating with architects, engineers, or production teams. You may also attend site visits, help with lighting calculations, and participate in client meetings to understand project goals. This collaborative environment offers valuable learning opportunities and exposure to the industry's best practices.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level lighting designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Lighting Designer, you need a foundational understanding of lighting principles, architectural design, and a relevant degree such as in lighting design, architecture, or theater. Familiarity with lighting design software like AutoCAD, Revit, and visual rendering tools, as well as basic knowledge of lighting control systems, is typically required. Strong attention to detail, creativity, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with architects, engineers, and clients. These skills ensure that you can design functional, visually appealing lighting solutions that meet client needs and project specifications.

What is the difference between Entry Level Lighting Designer vs Lighting Technician?

AspectEntry Level Lighting DesignerLighting Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate's or Bachelor's in Lighting Design, Architecture, or related fieldTechnical diploma or certification in lighting or electrical work
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, theaters, event spaces, architectural projectsOn-site at events, theaters, film sets, or construction sites
Employer & Industry UsageArchitectural firms, theater companies, event productionProduction companies, theaters, live events, film sets
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

While both roles involve lighting, an Entry Level Lighting Designer focuses on creating lighting plans and concepts, often requiring design education. A Lighting Technician handles the technical setup, installation, and operation of lighting equipment. The designer is more creative and planning-oriented, whereas the technician is more technical and hands-on.

What cities are hiring for Entry Level Lighting Designer jobs?

Cities with the most Entry Level Lighting Designer job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Lighting Designer jobs?

The most popular types of Lighting Designer jobs are:

What states have the most Entry Level Lighting Designer jobs?

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

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Lighting Designer jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Lighting Designer jobs are:

Entry Level Lighting Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Lighting Designer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Lighting Designer (Entry-Level): Building Construction

McParlane & Associates, Inc.

San Diego, CA • On-site

$65K - $85K/yr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Lighting Designer (Entry-Level): Building Construction

Locations: San Diego, CA (hybrid work schedule)


About the Role


We're looking for an entry-level Lighting Designer to join our growing lighting department. You'll work directly under our Certified Lighting Designer (CLD) leadership, building the foundational skills of architectural lighting design on real projects from your first week. This is an ideal role for someone with solid Revit skills and a strong design eye who is eager to learn through mentorship, peer review, and hands-on project work, and to grow into a designer who leads work of their own.


Your Impact


  • Model lighting within Revit through all project phases, from schematic design through construction documentation.
  • Perform lighting photometric calculations and renderings to study target light levels and understand how a space looks and feels.
  • Generate light fixture schedules (Excel) and cutsheet packages.
  • Conduct submittal reviews (Bluebeam) and support quality checks.
  • Prepare and assist with design presentations (PowerPoint) for clients.
  • Collaborate with architects, our integrated MEP team, and clients from concept through construction.
  • Bring a designer’s eye—walk into a room or study a rendering and tell what is working, what is not, and why.
  • Support a broad spectrum of projects: healthcare, higher education, commercial office, life science, high-rise multifamily, public sector, retail/hospitality, exterior site, and themed campus.


What You’ll Bring


  • Bachelor’s degree in lighting design, architectural engineering, architecture, interior design, or a related field.
  • 0–3 years relevant experience (e.g., internships, coursework, or related work experience).
  • Proficiency in Revit required.
  • Strong attention to detail and a commitment to client satisfaction.
  • Good communication skills and willingness to learn through self-driven professional study, mentorship and peer review.
  • A portfolio (required): completed projects, studio or competition work, personal explorations, or a curated set of images that showcase your eye and point of view.


Nice to Have (Preferred)


  • Familiarity with LightStanza or other lighting/photometric software.
  • Exposure to lighting controls and Title 24 Part 6.
  • Experience with light fixture schedules, cutsheet packages and submittal review workflows.
  • Knowledge of Excel, PowerPoint, Procore, AutoDesk Construction Cloud, Claude


Benefits & Development


  • Mentorship and a clear career path with direct guidance from a Certified Lighting Designer.
  • Live projects from your first week, on a path toward leading design work of your own.
  • Competitive salary—$65K–$85K based on experience.
  • Comprehensive benefits: health insurance, 401(k), paid time off, and tuition reimbursement.
  • Schedule of four nine-hour days with a half day on Friday, so you get the most out of your weekend.
  • Hybrid working schedule: four days in the office, one day remote.


Why This Role is a Great Fit


  • Real-World Growth: work end-to-end on live projects, from concept and design through construction.
  • Career Foundation: mentored directly by a CLD on a clear path toward leading your own design work.
  • Integrated Team: sit inside an MEP engineering firm, so designs are well coordinated and deliverables are seamlessly integrated.
  • Design-First Culture: your input and your point of view are valued and developed here.


To apply, please send your resume, portfolio, and a letter of interest.

Apply