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Freelance Lighting Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SYPartners

Freelance Studio Designer

New York, NY · On-site

Using the tools of strategy and design, we work alongside CEOs, leaders, and their executive teams ... editing and playback, lighting, digital voting/polling systems, and live meeting support.

SYPartners

Freelance Studio Designer

New York, NY

Using the tools of strategy and design, we work alongside CEOs, leaders, and their executive teams ... editing and playback, lighting, digital voting/polling systems, and live meeting support.

Daily Wire

Technical Supervisor

Boca Raton, FL · On-site

... and freelancers, and collaborating with the Nashville team to maintain unified standards and ... Strong experience in multi-camera production and lighting design for both studio and field ...

Daily Wire

Technical Supervisor

Boca Raton, FL · On-site

... and freelancers, and collaborating with the Nashville team to maintain unified standards and ... Strong experience in multi-camera production and lighting design for both studio and field ...

Blue Danube Productions

Lighting operation: console programming, moving light operation, fixture setup & strike * Ability ... Set & Strike equipment as required by design and function of the event * Communicate event ...

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How much do freelance lighting design jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance lighting design in the United States is $47.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $61.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Freelance Lighting Design position, and why are they important?

Excelling as a Freelance Lighting Designer requires a deep understanding of lighting principles, color theory, and the technical aspects of lighting systems, often supported by a degree in lighting design, theater production, or a related field. Proficiency with industry-standard design software such as AutoCAD, Vectorworks, or Lightwright, as well as familiarity with DMX lighting consoles, is typically necessary. Outstanding communication, creativity, and project management skills help freelancers collaborate effectively with clients, directors, and production teams. These capabilities are vital for delivering visually impactful and professionally executed lighting solutions that meet creative and logistical demands.

What is a Freelance Lighting Design job?

A Freelance Lighting Design job involves designing and implementing lighting for various projects, such as theater productions, concerts, events, architecture, and film. Freelance lighting designers work independently, collaborating with clients to create visually effective and functional lighting setups. They handle tasks like selecting equipment, programming lighting effects, and ensuring proper illumination. This role requires technical knowledge, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Freelancers often manage their own schedules, finances, and client relationships.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance lighting designers, and how can they be managed?

Freelance lighting designers often encounter challenges such as tight project timelines, coordinating with multiple production teams, and adapting to varied budgets and technical setups. To manage these effectively, it is important to maintain strong organizational and communication skills, build a reliable network of industry contacts, and stay updated with evolving lighting technology. Flexibility and proactive problem-solving are crucial when working independently, as each project may require different creative and technical approaches. By continuously honing your design skills and managing client expectations, you can build a strong reputation and enjoy a diverse range of opportunities in the field.

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Freelance Lighting Design jobs near you
Freelance Studio Designer

Freelance Studio Designer

SYPartners

New York, NY • On-site

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

About SYPartners
SYPartners is a consulting firm that focuses on transformation. Using the tools of strategy and design, we work alongside CEOs, leaders, and their executive teams to design a better future for their organizations-particularly in times of great change. The animating idea that drives us is our belief that organizations designed for both humanity and performance create unprecedented impact. We partner with leaders in organizations that have the courage and rigor to pursue both as equally essential and mutually reinforcing. And we seek to design our own organization in alignment with this idea, as well.
SYPartners was founded in 1994. The company is headquartered in New York City with locations in San Francisco, and Abu Dhabi, and is a founding member of kyu, a collective of best-in-class creative firms.
SYPartners is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
The Role
The Studio is a small but mighty team of expert craftspeople and makers. As an Onsite & Events Production Specialist, you will be hands-on with both physical production and live event execution. You will work in our New York City office and travel to client sites as needed to deliver exceptional in-person experiences, print production, and technical event support.
Candidate Profile
  • You are obsessively devoted to detail, precision, and quality of craft - you sweat the small stuff.
  • You're a creative problem-solver who can quickly adapt to onsite challenges and find practical solutions under pressure.
  • Planning, execution, and logistics are your strength - you bring order to complex events and productions.
  • You are able to develop and build and sustain collaborative relationships with vendors SYP works with on larger productions
  • You are an expert in production who contributes strategically and elevates the final result.
  • You thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced environment and build strong relationships with both internal teams and clients.
  • You are "good with your hands," willing and able to do the manual tasks and stagecraft necessary to create an immersive experience.
  • You give the team and clients confidence through flawless execution and attention to every detail.
  • You are comfortable generating AI prompts to maximize your job efficiency, but are willing and able to abide by SYP's evolving policies regarding the use of AI, especially as relates to our clients' demands.
The Work You'll Do
  • Execute print and physical production: printing (small + large format), trimming, bookbinding, mounting, prototyping, laser cutting, 3D printing, and environmental builds.
  • Scrub, prep, and finalize files for both print and on-screen presentations.
  • Support full event execution: location assessment, set-up, technical production, and break-down for client experiences (both at SYP's Manhattan office as well as off-site).
  • Manage AV and technical elements onsite: running slideshows, audio/video editing and playback, lighting, digital voting/polling systems, and live meeting support.
  • Coordinate with vendors for printing and fabrication as needed.
  • Partner closely with Program Managers and designers to plan schedules, logistics, and contingency plans.
  • Deliver high-quality physical and digital assets that support immersive client experiences.
  • Photo-document events before (such as at a site visit), during (audience shots), and after (meeting artifacts and outcomes).
  • Own server and cloud storage organization, ensuring all files are accurately stored.
  • Maintain the SYP Studio, keeping it pristine and orderly, procuring and organizing machine supplies such as paper, ink, etc., and making sure all studio equipment and machines are calibrated and running properly (and working with the larger Studio team to contact the appropriate repair technicians if not).
Qualifications
  • 2+ years of relevant experience at an agency, in-house, or as a freelancer.
  • Must be based in or near New York City and able to work regularly at SYP's office + travel to client sites/events.
  • Strong hands-on production skills: cutting, mounting, installation, prototyping, and use of maker tools (3D printers, laser cutters, etc.).
  • Fluency in Figma, Adobe Creative Suite, Google Docs, and PowerPoint.
  • Technical AV knowledge and experience running live events, digital meetings, and voting systems is highly desired.
  • Ability to work in 2D & 3D environments.
  • Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills under tight deadlines.
  • Comfortable working in a physical studio environment and on your feet during event setup days.
  • This is a freelance position requiring regular on site presence in the NYC Manhattan office with additional travel to events as needed. Ideal for someone looking for a mix of studio production days and exciting onsite event work.
SYPartners Commitment to Diversity
At SYPartners, we are committed to the work of advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in our own organization and for the leaders and clients we partner with. Our vision of the future-one in which organizations are designed to create conditions for human flourishing-demands that we continually work to become a more diverse and inclusive organization ourselves.
We are committed to working with and designing for people of every race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, socio-economic status, physical ability or attribute, religion, national origin, or political belief. We recognize this commitment requires continual learning, reflection, and imagination.

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