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Lighting Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Lighting Design Engineer supports the design and documentation process from concept development through turnover to operations. Responsibilities include lighting layout development, fixture and ...

We provide lighting and AV design services for museum exhibitions, theme parks, live events, activation, and experiential industries. We also offer technical labor and equipment rentals in North ...

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 ...

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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 Jul 11, 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 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.

How much does a lighting designer get paid?

Lighting designers typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Senior or specialized lighting designers working on large-scale projects can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $100,000 annually. Compensation may also include benefits such as health insurance and opportunities for overtime or freelance work.

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 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.

What does a lighting designer do?

A lighting designer plans and creates lighting schemes for various environments such as theaters, events, or architectural projects. They select and position lighting fixtures, use design software, and collaborate with clients and other professionals to achieve the desired visual effect. Knowledge of electrical systems, color theory, and industry standards is essential for this role.

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.

Are lighting designers in demand?

Lighting designers are in demand in industries such as architecture, entertainment, and events, where specialized knowledge of lighting technology and design principles is valued. Employment opportunities depend on project availability and regional development, with skills in CAD software and knowledge of energy-efficient lighting increasing job prospects.

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.
More about Lighting Design jobs
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:

Lighting Design Technician

Sandbox Testing Account

Airway Heights, WA โ€ข On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 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 Conditions

  • Willing 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 Qualifications

  • High 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.