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Lighting Design Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

HLB Lighting Design

Senior Lighting Designer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$85K - $91K/yr

Bachelor's degree or above in Lighting Design or Architectural Engineering or Architecture or Interior Design or Theatrical Lighting or related education and experience * 3 to 5 years' experience

IMEG

Lighting Project Designer

Chicago, IL

Proficiency of industry standard engineering and design software and tools including AGI32 or ... Architectural Lighting Team Highlights * The team blends the art and science of lighting, with ...

IMEG

Lighting Project Designer

Chicago, IL · On-site

Proficiency of industry standard engineering and design software and tools including AGI32 or ... Architectural Lighting Team Highlights * The team blends the art and science of lighting, with ...

Ghafari Associates LLC

Lighting Designer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

The Lighting Designer will also provide the design and engineering to develop the construction documents for the installation, interconnection and control of lighting fixtures. Essential Job ...

Ghafari Associates LLC

Lighting Designer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$70K - $85K/yr

The Lighting Designer will also provide the design and engineering to develop the construction documents for the installation, interconnection and control of lighting fixtures. Essential Job ...

CannonDesign

Lighting Designer III

Chicago, IL · On-site

$73K - $92K/yr

Design lighting and control systems for healthcare, education and commercial clients. Analyze lighting and engineering documents and layout systems in regards to components and parts. Research and ...

Acuity, Inc.

Senior Design Engineer

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

Through our two business segments, Acuity Brands Lighting (ABL) and Acuity Intelligent Spaces (AIS ... In everything the Lead Design Engineer does, both in projects and daily tasks, LEAN Process ...

GFT.

Traffic Design Engineer

Schaumburg, IL · Hybrid

$80K - $110K/yr

GFT is seeking a Traffic Design Engineer to join our Transportation Team in Schaumburg or Chicago ... This role combines knowledge in traffic operations, traffic safety, signal systems, lighting ...

GFT.

Traffic Design Engineer

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

GFT is seeking a Traffic Design Engineer to join our Transportation Team in Schaumburg or Chicago ... This role combines knowledge in traffic operations, traffic safety, signal systems, lighting ...

GFT.

Traffic Design Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$80K - $110K/yr

GFT is seeking a Traffic Design Engineer to join our Transportation Team in Schaumburg or Chicago ... This role combines knowledge in traffic operations, traffic safety, signal systems, lighting ...

GFT.

Traffic Design Engineer

Schaumburg, IL · Hybrid

$80K - $110K/yr

GFT is seeking a Traffic Design Engineer to join our Transportation Team in Schaumburg or Chicago ... This role combines knowledge in traffic operations, traffic safety, signal systems, lighting ...

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All JobsLighting Design Engineer JobsLighting Design Engineer Jobs in Illinois

Lighting Design Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$22

$37

$61

How much do lighting design engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for lighting design engineer in Illinois is $37.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.69 and $44.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Lighting Design Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, lighting principles, and building codes, typically supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with lighting design software such as DIALux, AGi32, AutoCAD, and knowledge of industry standards like IES or LEED certification is often required. Strong communication, creativity, and project management skills help you collaborate effectively with architects, clients, and construction teams. These skills ensure safe, energy-efficient, and aesthetically pleasing lighting solutions that meet both client needs and regulatory requirements.

What is the difference between Lighting Design Engineer vs Lighting Technician?

AspectLighting Design EngineerLighting Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in lighting design, architecture, or related field; certifications like LC or CLDTechnical diploma or certification in lighting technology or electrical work
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, architectural firms, construction sitesInstallation sites, maintenance facilities, event venues
Industry UsageDesigning lighting plans, creating concepts, collaborating with architectsInstalling, maintaining, troubleshooting lighting systems

The Lighting Design Engineer focuses on creating lighting concepts and plans, working closely with architects and clients. In contrast, the Lighting Technician handles the installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of lighting systems. Both roles are essential in the lighting industry but serve different stages of project development.

What are some common challenges faced by lighting design engineers when working on large-scale projects?

Lighting Design Engineers on large-scale projects often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multidisciplinary teams (architects, electrical engineers, and interior designers) to ensure lighting solutions meet both aesthetic and technical requirements. Balancing energy efficiency, regulatory compliance, and client expectations within tight deadlines is another frequent hurdle. Additionally, adapting designs to unforeseen site constraints or last-minute changes requires flexibility and strong problem-solving skills. Effective communication and project management are key to overcoming these obstacles and delivering successful lighting solutions.

What does a lighting design engineer do?

A Lighting Design Engineer is responsible for designing, planning, and implementing lighting systems for buildings, outdoor spaces, or events. They use technical knowledge and creativity to ensure that lighting is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, while also meeting safety and energy efficiency standards. Lighting Design Engineers collaborate with architects, interior designers, and electrical engineers to select appropriate fixtures, create lighting layouts, and oversee installation. They also use specialized software to model lighting scenarios and may be involved in troubleshooting and maintaining lighting systems after installation.

What are popular job titles related to Lighting Design Engineer jobs in Illinois?

For Lighting Design Engineer jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Lighting Design Engineer jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Lighting Design Engineer jobs in Illinois are:

Lighting Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lighting Design Engineer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,920 per year, or $37.9 per hour.

Lead Lighting Engineer

DAVID MICHAEL PRODUCTIONS INC

Woodridge, IL • On-site

$35 - $40/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Free food & snacks
  • Free uniforms
  • Vision insurance

About the Role:
Join DAVID MICHAEL PRODUCTIONS INC as a Lead Lighting Engineer, where you'll play a pivotal role in creating stunning visual experiences. We're seeking an innovative professional to lead our lighting design efforts, collaborating with a talented team in a dynamic environment.
Equipment Management Responsibilities:
  • Quarterly firmware updates on consoles and lighting equipment audit (deep QC/content check)
  • Summer/Winter cleaning of moving lights
  • Tracking of gear flagged for repair or out for servicing - oversee repair and communicate out of service inventory to Project Managers.
  • Assist with purchasing new equipment and supplies as needed
  • QC power distro, dimmer, all lighting elements.
Show Production Responsibilities:
  • CAD layouts and renderings per requests; assist with rigging plots.
  • Design and implement lighting concepts for various productions, ensuring quality and creativity.
  • Collaborate with Project Managers and production teams to achieve desired visual effects.
  • Manage lighting equipment selection, setup, and maintenance for all projects.
  • Fixture labels and truss tape as needed.
  • Oversee and train lighting assistant in warehouse. Conduct training sessions for new warehouse staff on current and new equipment as instructed.
  • Conduct site surveys to assess lighting needs and develop effective solutions.
  • Stay updated on industry trends and technologies to enhance production quality.
  • Ensure compliance with safety standards and protocols during all lighting operations.
Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree in Lighting Design, Theatre, or a related field.
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in lighting design for live events or productions.
  • Proficiency in industry-standard lighting software and tools.
  • Strong leadership skills and ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
  • Excellent problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
  • Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends as needed.
  • Strong communication skills to effectively liaise with diverse teams.
  • Passion for the arts and a commitment to delivering high-quality productions.