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Lighting Design Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

W3Global Inc.

Lighting Designer

El Cajon, CA · 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 ...

legence

Lighting Designer

El Segundo, CA

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

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 ...

HLB Lighting Design

Lighting Designer

Culver City, CA · 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 ...

Stanford Hotels

Lighting Designer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$40/hr

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

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

$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 ...

AlfaTech

Sr. Designer (Lighting)

Monrovia, CA · On-site

As a leading consulting engineering firm, we provide thoughtful engineering design that is ... Provide lighting design solutions appropriate to the client brief, budget, and relevant standards.

LPA Design Studios

Lighting Designer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$66K - $97K/yr

Our "No Excuses" integrated design approach was recognized by the AIA as "a trailblazer in ... We're currently seeking an Entry-Level Lighting Designer to join our MEP+L Systems team. You'll be ...

Legence

Lighting Designer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

You will work alongside the design team in preparing documentation to present lighting, testing and validating the design with mock-ups and calculations, and having a key role executing technical ...

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 Jul 29, 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 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.
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,814 per year, or $34.5 per hour.

Lighting Design Project Coordinator

DMF Lighting

Carson, CA • On-site

$55K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

DMF Lighting is a fast-growing leader in the lighting industry, always hard at work engineering what comes next. We have an exciting opportunity for a Lighting Design Project Coordinator.

  • Pay range is $55,000 to $80,000 annually (based on skills/knowledge/experience)
  • Location: onsite in Carson, CA

The Project Coordinator will collaborate closely with our design team, dealers, and representatives to intake new projects, conduct scope calls to establish project parameters, and work alongside account managers to facilitate invoices. They must possess the capability to read and understand construction sets to evaluate if all essential information for initiating the project has been received. Additionally, they will monitor project status, maintain project log and coordinate with multiple disciplines to acquire the necessary documentation.

Primary Job Responsibilities:

· Initial project intake and processing

· Effectively review documentation and assess missing information needed for design services

· Communicate with clients, designers and sales teams on additional information needed to complete projects in a timely manner

· Communicate with clients on project deadlines and give updates on progress

· Update and maintain team calendar and project coordination board

· Would conduct initial calls to clarify project scope, services required, product needs and client specific direction.

· Produce clear documentation that summarizes initial call information to communicate to design team for successful deliverables that satisfies clients requirements

· Collaborate with account managers to provide quotations

· Display a commitment to quality by following required procedures and practices; take all appropriate measures to ensure quality

· Work with assigned outside sales managers to track the status of projects in the pipeline and to maintain customer satisfaction with project deliverables and processes.

· Identify and assess customers’ needs to achieve satisfaction

· Self-motivated individual with ability to complete tasks in a timely manner

Primary Job Requirements:

· 3-5 years of project management or experience in related fields such as interior design, architecture, or lighting design.

· Demonstrated knowledge of design sets (plans, elevations, sections etc.)

· Successful history of written and verbal customer communication skills

· Demonstrated proficiency in administrative and documentation procedures

· Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite of products (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

· Proficient with AutoCAD not required but would be a plus

· Must have the ability to manage multiple and shifting priorities in a fast-paced and constantly changing environment

· Must have a high degree of initiative and the ability to manage multiple tasks, work under pressure, and meet deadlines as required

Educational Requirements: High School Diploma. Bachelor’s degree in interior design, Architecture or Architectural Engineering

Program Proficiencies: Microsoft suite, Bluebeam Revu, AutoCAD (a plus), Outlook

Company Description

DMF Lighting designs and builds industry-leading LED downlighting that sets the standard for flexibility, performance, and quality. Founded over 30 years ago, DMF has grown into a leader in the lighting industry, driven by a passion for innovation and customer service.
Our in-house engineers constantly push the boundaries of lighting, delivering products that combine exceptional performance with beautiful design. At DMF, we believe in a collaborative, forward-thinking culture that empowers our team to bring creative ideas to life and make a lasting impact. If you’re looking for a company where creativity and innovation are part of the DNA, DMF is the place for you.
DMF Lighting is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.