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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 · 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 ...

AlfaTech

Designer (Lighting)

Monrovia, CA · On-site

If you have a passion for lighting design and innovation, are meticulous and thrive on challenges, and if you have a keen aspiration to deliver exceptional lighting solutions across diverse project ...

AlfaTech

Designer (Lighting)

Monrovia, CA · On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

If you have a passion for lighting design and innovation, are meticulous and thrive on challenges, and if you have a keen aspiration to deliver exceptional lighting solutions across diverse project ...

Alfatech

Designer (Lighting)

Monrovia, CA · On-site

If you have a passion for lighting design and innovation, are meticulous and thrive on challenges, and if you have a keen aspiration to deliver exceptional lighting solutions across diverse project ...

AlfaTech

Designer (Lighting)

Monrovia, CA · Hybrid

If you have a passion for lighting design and innovation, are meticulous and thrive on challenges, and if you have a keen aspiration to deliver exceptional lighting solutions across diverse project ...

Stanford Hotels

Lighting Designer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$40 - $43/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 · 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

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 · 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 ...

Legence

Lighting Designer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$72K - $88K/yr

Through AMA's design expertise in media, broadcast, and production facilities-and CMTA's national ... CMTA Lighting, a Business Unit of CMTA, formerly known as AMA Group, seeks an enthusiastic and ...

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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 Sep 15, 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 September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,814 per year, or $34.5 per hour.

Lighting Design release Engineer:

Irvine, CA • On-site

Pentangle Tech Services | P5 Group
See more jobs at Pentangle Tech Services | P5 Groupexternal

$43.25 - $49.50/hr

Other

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Lighting Design Release Engineer (Lighting DRE)

Location: Irvine, CA

Job Description

We are seeking a Lighting Design Release Engineer (Lighting DRE) with 6 months to 3+ years of experience in automotive exterior lighting design and release.

Key Responsibilities
  • Support the design, development, and release of automotive exterior lighting components and assemblies.
  • Work on headlamps, tail lamps, center light panels, and other exterior lighting systems.
  • Perform design and feasibility studies in collaboration with Styling and cross-functional teams.
  • Create and release lighting components using CATIA V6.
  • Review A-class surfaces, craftsmanship, manufacturability, and design feasibility.
  • Collaborate with Tier-1 suppliers on component design, cost, mass, joining methods, molding, and testing.
  • Support design validation and implement simulation recommendations.
  • Ensure lighting components meet quality, functionality, manufacturing, and program requirements.
Required Skills
  • 6 months to 3+ years of experience as a Lighting DRE.
  • Experience in automotive exterior lighting systems.
  • Strong hands-on experience with CATIA V6.
  • Knowledge of headlamps, tail lamps, and other automotive lighting components.
  • Understanding of automotive manufacturing processes, molding, joining, and testing.
  • Experience working with Styling teams and Tier-1 suppliers.
  • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
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