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Lighting Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lighting Designer

El Cajon, CA ยท Hybrid

$80K - $120K/yr

Lighting Design: Develop lighting system designs including layouts, fixture selection, lighting controls, and photometric studies * Code Compliance: Ensure designs meet California Electrical Code ...

LIGHTING DESIGN CONSULTANT The Lighting Design Consultant focuses on providing design service for both walk-in and trade customers, and is a member of our sales team. Design Service Having a keen eye ...

Lighting Designer

Nashville, TN ยท On-site

$25/hr

Lighting Design & Specification * Develop lighting designs and coordinated specifications for residential and commercial projects * Translate design intent into detailed lighting and lighting control ...

Lighting Designer

Nashville, TN ยท On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Lighting Design & Specification * Develop lighting designs and coordinated specifications for residential and commercial projects * Translate design intent into detailed lighting and lighting control ...

The ideal candidate will have recent architectural lighting design training, or lighting adjacent design training (interiors / architecture / landscape architecture / theatrical lighting) and 2 - 3 ...

Lighting Designer

Nashville, TN ยท On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Lighting Design & Specification * Develop lighting designs and coordinated specifications for residential and commercial projects * Translate design intent into detailed lighting and lighting control ...

Lighting Designer

Culver City, CA ยท On-site

$76K - $81K/yr

Interface among the principals, design/technical staff and business team as needed. HLB's Corporate ... Bachelor's degree or above in Lighting Design or Architectural Engineering or Architecture or ...

Lighting Designer

Miami, FL ยท On-site

$68K - $73K/yr

Interface among the principals, design/technical staff and business team as needed. HLB's Corporate ... Bachelor's degree or above in Lighting Design or Architectural Engineering or Architecture or ...

Prepare lighting design layout * Prepare lighting detail and sightline studies * Prepare lighting fixture specification package including: * Lighting fixture schedule * Lighting fixture take-off

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Lighting Design information

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$49K

$72.8K

$94K

How much do lighting design jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for lighting design in the United States is $72,767.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,000.00 and $80,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is lighting design?

Lighting design is the art and science of planning and creating lighting solutions for various environments, such as theaters, architectural spaces, events, or film sets. Lighting designers use their knowledge of aesthetics, technology, and spatial awareness to enhance visibility, mood, and functionality within a space. They select and position lighting fixtures, choose colors and intensities, and often collaborate with architects, interior designers, or directors to achieve the desired effect. Good lighting design can dramatically influence the atmosphere and usability of a space.

How do lighting designers typically collaborate with architects and other team members during a project?

Lighting designers often work closely with architects, interior designers, and engineers to ensure that lighting plans enhance both the aesthetics and functionality of a space. Early in a project, they participate in design meetings to understand the vision and constraints, then develop lighting concepts that complement the architectural elements. Throughout the project, they coordinate with other disciplines to address technical requirements, budget limitations, and installation logistics, making communication and teamwork essential skills for success in this role.

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

To thrive as a Lighting Designer, you need a solid background in design principles, spatial awareness, and technical knowledge of lighting systems, often supported by a degree in lighting design, architecture, or a related field. Familiarity with lighting design software such as AutoCAD, DIALux, or Revit, as well as understanding industry standards and certifications like LEED or IES, is crucial. Creative problem-solving, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help Lighting Designers translate client needs into effective visual solutions. These skills and qualifications ensure that lighting designs are both aesthetically pleasing and functionally effective, meeting safety, sustainability, and client requirements.

What is the difference between Lighting Design vs Lighting Technician?

AspectLighting DesignLighting Technician
CredentialsDegree in lighting design, architecture, or related field; certifications like LC or CLDTechnical training, certifications in electrical work or lighting installation
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, client meetings, project planningOn-site installation, maintenance, and operation of lighting systems
Employer & IndustryArchitectural firms, entertainment, theater, commercial projectsConstruction companies, event production, theater, film sets

Lighting Design involves creating lighting plans and concepts, focusing on aesthetics and functionality. Lighting Technicians execute these plans through installation and maintenance. While both roles work closely, Lighting Designers focus on design and planning, whereas Lighting Technicians handle the technical implementation.

Are lighting designers in demand?

Lighting designers are in demand in industries such as architecture, theater, film, and events, with employment opportunities growing as projects increasingly emphasize aesthetic and energy-efficient lighting. Skills in CAD software and knowledge of sustainable lighting practices enhance job prospects in this field.

How do you become a lighting designer?

To become a lighting designer, individuals typically pursue a bachelor's degree in lighting design, theater, architecture, or a related field. Gaining experience through internships, developing skills with lighting software, and building a portfolio are important steps; professional certifications can also enhance job prospects.

How much money does a lighting designer make?

Lighting designers typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, location, and industry sector. Senior or specialized lighting designers working on large projects or in high-demand markets can earn over $100,000 annually. Compensation often includes project-based fees, hourly rates, or salaries, and proficiency with lighting design software and technical skills can influence earning potential.

What does a lighting design do?

A lighting designer creates and plans lighting schemes for various environments such as theaters, architectural projects, or events. They select appropriate fixtures, control systems, and placement to achieve desired visual effects, often using design software and collaborating with clients and other professionals. Their work enhances aesthetics, functionality, and safety of the space.
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What cities are hiring for Lighting Design jobs?

Cities with the most Lighting Design job openings:

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

The most popular types of Lighting Design jobs are:

What states have the most Lighting Design jobs?

States with the most job openings for Lighting Design jobs include:

Infographic showing various Lighting Design job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,767 per year, or $35 per hour.

Lighting Design Technician

Sandbox Testing Account

Airway Heights, WA โ€ข On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Job Summary:Responsible for producing engaging, immersive, and innovative lighting designs that will resonate with audiences during live events. Collaborates with artists and representatives in developing the lighting design for a variety of events. Key Duties and Responsibilities: These functions are intended as a general illustration of the work performed in this job classification and are not all inclusive for this position.Collaborate closely with content and production teams to create and implement compelling lighting designs.Use creativity, innovation, and technical expertise to create lighting design elements.Apply problem-solving in lighting design projects and quickly provide solid design solutions that resonate with audience.Performs the Load-in of band equipment and rental equipment.Set Up and break-down of band and event equipment.Focus and lighting adjustments to artist or event specifications.Spotlight Operations/Lighting Control Boards operation & programming.Maintenance of the lighting systems which includes changing blown lamps, focusing fixtures, cleaning fixtures, helping facilitate repairs, maintaining console show files, and system documentation.Accommodate artist/ event A/V requirements.Responsible for safe and consistent operation of lighting.Assist with the technical advance with Artists representatives.Ensure proper care and handling of all rental lighting & A/V equipment.Interact with visiting production crews to ensure a successful show.Distribute or create lighting plot plans.Oversee and operate systems pertaining to lighting throughout the entire event.Assist audio crew with stands, microphones, cables, etc.Attend Production Meetings.Attend all scheduled sound checks.Maintain a clean and orderly working environment at all times.Communicate updates and issues to applicable stakeholders.Assist in emergency procedures.Perform other duties as assigned.General ConditionsWilling and able to work evenings, late nights, weekends and holidays in a high profile and high-stress environment.Demonstrate ability to prioritize effectively and efficiently in a fast-paced environment.Demonstrate strong time management, problem-solving, and organizational skills.Demonstrate strong verbal and written communication skills.Demonstrate positive attitude and ability to effectively collaborate with others.Demonstrate personal initiative and resourcefulness; ability to act and resolve needs independently.Demonstrate ability to deliver excellence with minimal supervision and/or direction.Job QualificationsHigh school diploma or GED. Extensive related work experience may be considered in lieu of educational requirement.Minimum of three (3) years' experience working live events, including production rigging, lighting, and lighting design.Experience in stage lighting, pro audio systems and basic video systems.Experience in the set-up, patching, and operation of conventional, intermediate, and advanced lighting consoles.Strong understanding of conventional, LED, and automated fixtures.Experience in hanging cabling, and patching lighting fixtures of all types.Experience assembling truss.Working knowledge of the principles and practices of workplace safety.Working knowledge and skill using Microsoft Office Suite applications and various lighting software; Grad MA2/3, High-End Systems, Vectorworks, WYSIWYG and Pathscape.Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by a team member to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be considered to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.While performing the duties of this Job, the team member is regularly required to sit; stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; ascend or descend ladders, stairs, scaffolding, ramps, poles; maintain body equilibrium to prevent falling when walking, standing, crouching, or navigating narrow, slippery, or erratically moving surfaces; bend body downward and forward by bending spine and legs; talk or hear.This job is active in nature. Must be able to stand for long periods while performing various duties. Moderate to heavy lifting (25 - 100 pounds) required.Specific hearing and vision abilities required by this job; Work in an environment with moderate to loud noise level, extreme lighting changes, strobes & moving lights; Able to wear a radio earpiece during the scheduled shift.