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Lighting Design Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

HLB Lighting Design

Senior Lighting Designer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$85K - $91K/yr

As a designer, taking the design intent and turning it into the work product. 20% designer, 80 ... Exhibits expertise or desire to specialize in a specific lighting project type or application and ...

IMEG

Lighting Project Designer

Chicago, IL

Design lighting layouts that include basic control sensors and draft lighting control sequences of operations and zone schedules in Revit or, more rarely, AutoCAD * Coordinate internally or ...

IMEG

Lighting Project Designer

Chicago, IL · On-site

Design lighting layouts that include basic control sensors and draft lighting control sequences of operations and zone schedules in Revit or, more rarely, AutoCAD * Coordinate internally or ...

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

$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 ...

SmartSource

Lighting Designer

Glendale Heights, IL · On-site

Design & Preproduction * Develop lighting concepts for meetings, general sessions, exhibits, and special events. * Create equipment recommendations, lighting plots, and basic venue layouts.

SmartSource

Lighting Designer

Glendale Heights, IL · On-site

Design & Preproduction * Develop lighting concepts for meetings, general sessions, exhibits, and special events. * Create equipment recommendations, lighting plots, and basic venue layouts.

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Lighting Design information

See Illinois salary details

$47.5K

$70.5K

$91.1K

How much do lighting design jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for lighting design in Illinois is $70,513.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,000.00 and $77,500.00 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 Illinois?

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

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

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

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

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

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Lighting Design jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Lighting Design job openings:

Lighting Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lighting Design job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,513 per year, or $33.9 per hour.

Senior Lighting Designer

Chicago, IL • On-site

HLB Lighting Design
Architectural Services • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about HLB Lighting Designexternal

$85K - $91K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Description
Supports and/or manages the work of 1 or more team members, is a project manager, has some input on relevant (local) office decisions, and is becoming a leader in their respective office. As a designer, taking the design intent and turning it into the work product. 20% designer, 80% project manager.
Achieving Results - Project Responsibilities
  • Reviews monthly fee drafts with Project Manager/Associate/Principal
  • Understands how to apply authorized scope of work to tasks and meet deadlines
  • Manages agendas, meeting minutes, and regular project status communications
  • Develops technical skills appropriate to area of expertise and continually improves skills and knowledge through supplemental education, seminars, etc.
  • Capable of full delivery of a project from start to finish with team / ownership of all associated tasks, but does this with the guidance of an Associate or Principal
  • Supports and assists in managing the team to produce work efficiently and profitably
  • Creating labor hour budgets for projects relative to work they have generated or as needed
  • Ability to multi-task and establish priorities
  • Reviews deliverables prior to issue based on QA/QC procedures
  • Exhibits expertise or desire to specialize in a specific lighting project type or application and manages those types of projects (Practice Leader Group - PLG)

Working with Clients - Client Responsibilities
  • Develops good client and/or related business relationships resulting in client satisfaction and continued loyalty from that client
  • Enhance HLB's value to the client and promote the firm
  • Uses communication tools to manage client expectations

Working with Teammates and Managers - Management Responsibilities
  • Exhibits flexibility and cooperation with teammates
  • Manage and / or support team effectively
  • Manages their work and shows ability to prioritize time of others in the team
  • Starting to understand good framework for resolving issues
  • Interfaces among the principals, design/technical staff and business team as needed
  • Has a leadership role in office-wide coordination of resources and staff

HLB's Corporate Culture and Values - Responsibilities to HLB initiatives
  • Participation in and contribution to procedures and environment that are in the best interest of the firm
  • Participation in recruiting and retaining efforts
  • Represents the firm in a professional manner
  • Participation in Designing Our Future/HLB 10:10 Vision, C2Q initiatives
  • Reinforce HLB values - Artistry, Curiosity, Balance, Integrity, Legacy
  • Looks for opportunities to collaborate with other HLB offices on project, DOF, business workgroup avenues in a meaningful way

Requirements
Skill Set
  • Excellent Organizational skills
  • Proven technical skills appropriate to work area
  • Oral and written skills
  • Computer programs: Revit, Excel, Word, Power Point, Adobe Suite including Acrobat, Photoshop and InDesign, AutoCAD, AGI or Visual or Elum Tools, Diva, Grasshopper, Ecotect, Radiance, Daysim, Rhino, Radiance, VantagePoint - as applicable to their role or business group
  • Ability to prioritize / time management skills
  • Self-motivated and self-directed
  • Team player
  • Motivator
  • Dependable

Education
  • 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
  • Certification in Lighting Design (e.g. LC) or certification related to their field / degree
  • LEED BD+C or endeavors to achieve
  • IALD Associate level or above
  • Consider CLD certification
  • Participate in industry related professional organizations locally

Compensation
$85,400 to $91,000
The final agreed upon compensation is based on cost of living, individual education, qualifications, and experience.
Benefit Clause: Includes but not limited to Medical, Dental & Vision plans, flexible spending account, 401(k) plans, life & AD&D insurance, short/long term disability plans, holidays, and paid time off.

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