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Lighting Design Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

W3Global Inc.

Lighting Designer

El Cajon, CA · Hybrid

$80K - $120K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

legence

Lighting Designer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

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

HLB Lighting Design

Lighting Designer

Culver City, CA · On-site

$76K - $81K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

Hilton Waikiki Beach

Lighting Designer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$40/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

Hilton Waikiki Beach

Lighting Designer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$40/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

Stanford Hotels

Lighting Designer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$40/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

HLB Lighting Design

Lighting Designer

Culver City, CA · On-site

$76K - $81K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

AlfaTech

Sr. Designer (Lighting)

Monrovia, CA · Hybrid

Sr. Lighting Designer About Us At AlfaTech we believe in more than just engineering solutions; we ... As a leading consulting engineering firm, we provide thoughtful engineering design that is ...

AlfaTech

Sr. Designer (Lighting)

Monrovia, CA · On-site

Sr. Lighting Designer About Us At AlfaTech we believe in more than just engineering solutions; we ... As a leading consulting engineering firm, we provide thoughtful engineering design that is ...

AlfaTech

Sr. Designer (Lighting)

Monrovia, CA · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Sr. Lighting Designer About Us At AlfaTech we believe in more than just engineering solutions; we ... As a leading consulting engineering firm, we provide thoughtful engineering design that is ...

Rebel and Company Lighting

Be Seen First

Retail Sales and Lighting design

Los Gatos, CA · On-site

$60K - $90K/yr

  • PTO

Pay: $60,000.00 - $95,000.00 per year Lighting Designer & Sales Rebel and Company Lighting Los Gatos, CA | Full-Time | In-Person Are you a passionate lighting and interior design professional who ...

HLB Lighting Design

Senior Designer

Culver City, CA · On-site

$89K - $95K/yr

Description Horton Lees Brogden Lighting Design Inc. seeks a Senior Designer (Culver City, CA) to plan, design, and furnish lighting designs through analysis of electrical lighting controls, build ...

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All JobsLighting Design JobsLighting Design Jobs in California

Lighting Design information

See California salary details

$48.4K

$71.8K

$92.8K

How much do lighting design jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for lighting design in California is $71,814.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,100.00 and $79,000.00 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.

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

The most popular types of Lighting Design jobs in California are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Lighting Design jobs?

Cities in California with the most Lighting Design job openings:

Lighting Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lighting Design job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,814 per year, or $34.5 per hour.

Lighting Designer

W3Global Inc.

El Cajon, CA • Hybrid

$80K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Role: Lighting Designer
Employment Type: Full-Time, Hybrid (2 days onsite)
Location: El Cajon, CA

Job Summary:
We are seeking a detail-oriented Lighting Designer with strong technical design skills and experience in lighting systems for commercial projects. The ideal candidate will be responsible for developing lighting layouts, photometrics, fixture specifications, and lighting controls while ensuring compliance with applicable California codes, energy standards, and industry best practices.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Lighting Design: Develop lighting system designs including layouts, fixture selection, lighting controls, and photometric studies

  • Code Compliance: Ensure designs meet California Electrical Code, Building Code, Energy Code, Green Building Code, ADA Standards, NFPA 1104, and IESNA guidelines

  • Technical Drawings: Read and interpret construction documents and develop coordinated lighting design solutions

  • Photometrics & Calculations: Perform lighting calculations including Title 24 energy compliance and photometric analysis

  • Documentation: Prepare design documentation, respond to RFIs, and review submittals

  • Coordination: Work with engineering teams, architects, and contractors to ensure design accuracy and constructability

  • Tools & Software: Utilize AutoCAD, Revit, AGI32, Visual Lighting Design tools, Design Master, Energy Pro, and Microsoft Office applications

  • Field Support: Conduct site visits and coordinate with field teams as required

  • Supervision: Support and supervise junior technicians when needed

Required Qualifications:

  • 1-3 years of lighting design experience

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Architectural Engineering, Lighting Design, Architecture, or related field

  • Strong understanding of lighting design fundamentals including photometrics, fixture specifications, and lighting controls

  • Experience reading and interpreting construction documents

  • Knowledge of California Electrical, Building, Energy, and Green Building Codes

  • Experience with Title 24 calculations and energy compliance requirements

  • Proficiency in AutoCAD and Revit

  • Experience with lighting design tools such as AGI32, Design Master, Energy Pro, or similar software

  • Strong communication, coordination, and documentation skills

Work Environment:

  • Hybrid work model (2 days onsite, 3 days remote)

  • Fast-paced engineering and design environment

  • Collaborative multi-disciplinary team setting

  • Office and occasional field/site work required

Benefits:
100% paid Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance, Life and Disability Insurance, Flexible Spending Accounts, 401(k) with matching, Paid Time Off, Paid Holidays, Performance Bonuses, Continuing Education, Training, Career Development, Cell Phone Reimbursement

W3Global logo

About W3Global

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

W3Global has been delivering staffing solutions for nearly two decades; we know which recruiting strategies work best. Our expert team is committed to developing a customized solution to fit your company’s unique needs. As a W3Global client, you’ll also receive personalized assistance from a seasoned team of staffing specialists. We are committed to providing both technical support and industry expertise to simplify the hiring process. We know that your time matters. W3Global will help you streamline the hiring process, getting it done and getting it right.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Frisco, TX, US

Year founded

2006

View All W3Global Jobs