2

Entry Level Lighting Designer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Cares about redefining how energy is designed, applied and consumed. Cares about thoughtfully ... Demonstrates ability to layout conduit systems, various lighting systems, basic control systems ...

Cares about redefining how energy is designed, applied and consumed. Cares about thoughtfully ... Demonstrates ability to layout conduit systems, various lighting systems, basic control systems ...

Shift Lead (Red Shirt)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$14.25 - $17.50/hr

... is an entry-level leadership position designed to help you develop the skills needed for a ... Lighting is maintained at a low level. The physical demands described here are representative of ...

This is an entry level position with opportunities for career advancement. Normally scheduled days ... The is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or ...

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 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:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Lighting Designer jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Entry Level Lighting Designer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Lighting Designer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Lighting Designer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Lighting Designer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 80% In-person, and 20% Hybrid job distribution.

Electrical Engineering Graduate - Designer 1

Naperville, IL • Hybrid


IMEG
Specialized Design Services • 1 - 5K employees

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

266th of 450 rated engineering

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students


Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Electrical Engineering New Graduate | Naperville, IL

100% Employee-Owned Big-firm resources, local-team relationships, ONE IMEG culture

This posting is for Summer 2027 New Graduate opportunities.

IMEG is hiring an Electrical Engineering New Graduate in Naperville, Illinois, to support the design, analysis, and implementation oversight of electrical systems in buildings. This entry-level role offers hands-on design, analysis, and project execution experience, with mentorship, training, and opportunities to grow your expertise from day one.

You will support project planning, design documentation, quality control, client communication, and multidisciplinary coordination while working within project budgets and helping meet project goals and client expectations.


At a Glance

Location: Naperville, IL

Discipline: Electrical Engineering

Markets: Education

Ownership: 100% employee-owned (ESOP)

Travel: Up to 5%

Work Schedule: Full-time hybrid

Sponsorship: Not available

What You'll Do

Assist in the design and analysis of electrical systems, using engineering software and tools to create detailed designs, specifications, and calculations in accordance with code requirements and IMEG standards

Interact with clients to understand needs, gather project requirements, communicate technical information effectively, and help build and maintain client relationships through professional communication

Support the execution of consulting projects as part of a project team, including assisting with project planning and scheduling to meet deadlines and objectives

Assist with documenting design decisions and client instructions while monitoring project design progress

Analyze low to medium complexity engineering tasks and propose innovative solutions in collaboration with senior engineers and consultants

Participate in IMEG quality control processes to help ensure designs and solutions meet IMEG quality standards, industry standards, and client requirements

Stay up to date with industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in electrical engineering, and contribute to research, development, and innovation efforts within IMEG

Prioritize safety in all aspects of engineering work by identifying and mitigating potential safety risks associated with electrical systems

Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including other engineers, architects, and project managers, to deliver integrated solutions that meet project goals

What You'll Bring

Required

Education

Bachelor of Science (BS) Degree in Electrical Engineering, or equivalent required

Experience

None required

Required Skills/Abilities

Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and concepts involved in the production of technical plans and specifications

Strong technical and analytical skills including knowledge of principles relating to circuit theory, electromagnetism, power systems, and electronics as they relate to electrical systems design for buildings

Knowledge of industry standard engineering software and tools, including lighting photometric calculation software such as AGI, Elum Tools, Visual Lighting, or other; energy compliance software such as ComCheck; and familiar use of Adobe or Bluebeam Revu

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; Ability to clearly communicate in both oral and written communication to individuals or groups

Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment

Attention to detail and problem-solving skills

Eagerness to learn and adapt to new challenges

Basic knowledge in the use of Building Information Modeling (Building Information Model) software

Proficient with MS Office Suite including but not limited to Word, Excel, and Outlook

Ability to travel up to 5% with occasional overnight stays

Preferred

Prior internship experience in the building design consulting industry preferred

Engineering in Training (EIT) License preferred

Physical Requirements

Regularly required to sit, walk, stand, talk, see, hear, and lift objects up to 25Pounds

Occasionally required to drive, kneel, stoop, crouch, crawl, reach with hands or arms, and grasp or pull

Will have limited exposure to outside weather conditions and loud noises

Why IMEG

We put people at the center of who we are, creating positive outcomes for people, communities, and our planet.

Consultancy 101: our structured development program that builds your consulting and technical foundation from day one

An assigned mentor to guide your growth from day one

IDEA Program: a firm-wide innovation accelerator where employees across every discipline develop and scale new tools, from VR and AI to carbon-reduction technology

MEG, our in-house AI platform, helps employees find information and build agents that streamline project workflows and calculations

Employee ownership (ESOP): fully vested at all times, with a 3% to 6% company contribution, plus year-end profit sharing

PE, SE, and other license exam prep, with a clear path from EIT to PE

Dress for Your Day flexibility (wear what fits your day)

Generous time off, including 6 paid holidays and 3 additional floating holidays

Medical, dental, and vision coverage starting day one, with preventive care at 100%, a $50/month wellness credit, and a Calm subscription

State of Illinois Salary Range: $78,000-$82,000 per year

The range listed above represents the base pay IMEG reasonably and in good faith expects to pay for this position in the work location identified above at the time of posting. For positions available in multiple locations, the minimums and maximums may vary based on work location.

Individual compensation will be determined based on job-related factors, including the candidate's experience, education, knowledge, skills, abilities, and licensure and certifications.

Other rewards may include annual bonuses and stock ownership options. In addition, IMEG provides a variety of benefits to employees, including health insurance coverage, an employee wellness program, life and disability insurance, a retirement savings plan, paid holidays, and paid time off (PTO). This information is being provided in compliance with local laws. Additional information regarding employee benefits may be found on our company website at www.imegcorp.com.

Bring Your Career to IMEG

Apply today and start building your career at IMEG while helping create positive outcomes for people, communities, and our planet.

IMEG, an employee-owned corporation, is committed to investing in employees' futures through professional development programs and opportunities for career advancement. We offer a comprehensive benefits package including generous PTO, flexible schedule, and assistance with tuition reimbursement. Additionally, employees are eligible to enroll in health, dental, vision, and life insurance on their first day of employment.

Want to learn more about IMEG and our other amazing career opportunities? Please visit https://www.imegcorp.com/careers/.

IMEG is committed to providing equal employment opportunities in all employment practices, without regard torace, color, religion, sex (including sexual orientation or gender identity), gender, national origin, disability, age, genetic information(including family medical history), parental status (including pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions includinglactation), ethnic origin, hair type (including hairstyle or hair texture), citizenship status, marital status, military service, veteran'sstatus, political affiliation, non-merit-based factors, or any other characteristic protected by law. In accordance with antidiscrimination law, it is the purpose of this policy to put into effect these principles and mandates. IMEG prohibitsdiscrimination and harassment of any type. IMEG conforms to the spirit as well as to the letter of all applicable laws andregulations.

All applicants have the right to request access, correction, and deletion of their personal information from our system. In order to make a request, please email careers@imegcorp.com.



What IMEG employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom