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Lighting Design Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

IMEG

Lighting Project Designer

Seattle, WA

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 ...

Seattle Rep

Annual Fund Manager

Seattle, WA

$31.61 - $33.75/hr

The Annual Fund Manager will help design and build a comprehensive communication and solicitation plan and will engage the Seattle Rep community through community-centric fundraising strategies and ...

New

Seattle Rep

Annual Fund Manager

Seattle, WA · On-site

$31.61 - $33.75/hr

The Annual Fund Manager will help design and build a comprehensive communication and solicitation plan and will engage the Seattle Rep community through community-centric fundraising strategies and ...

New

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All JobsLighting Design JobsLighting Design Jobs in Seattle, WA

Lighting Design information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$55.8K

$82.8K

$107K

How much do lighting design jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for lighting design in Seattle, WA is $82,809.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,000.00 and $91,000.00 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 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.

How much money do lighting designers make?

Lighting designers typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior or specialized lighting designers working on large projects can earn over $100,000 annually. Many also work freelance or in entertainment, where income varies based on project scope and client budgets.

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, theater, film, and events, with employment opportunities growing as projects increasingly incorporate specialized lighting. Skills in CAD software and knowledge of energy-efficient lighting systems can enhance job prospects, especially in commercial and entertainment sectors.

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 does a lighting design do?

A lighting designer creates and plans lighting schemes for various spaces, such as theaters, architectural projects, or events, to achieve desired visual effects and functionality. They select appropriate fixtures, control systems, and placement, often using design software, to enhance aesthetics and ensure safety and efficiency.
What are popular job titles related to Lighting Design jobs in Seattle, WA? For Lighting Design jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lighting Design jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Lighting Design jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Lighting Design jobs? Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Lighting Design job openings:
Lighting Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lighting Design job openings in Seattle, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,809 per year, or $39.8 per hour.

Lighting Designer - Future Opportunities

HLB Lighting Design

Seattle, WA • On-site

$73K - $77K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 hours ago

Job description

Description
Supports the work of 1 or more team members and displays judgement and independent thinking in the design process. Position is 70% designer / 30% project manager.
Achieving Results - Project Responsibilities
  • Use critical thinking and discretion in assessing specific project needs and communicating effectively to the project manager.
  • Begin to familiarize/learn the process for reviewing monthly fee drafts with Project Manager/Associate/Principal.
  • Begins to understand how to apply authorized scope of work to tasks and meet deadlines.
  • Assist in managing agendas, meeting minutes, and regular project status communications to build knowledge in these areas.
  • Work independently on specific scopes of a project like calculations or documentation.
  • Supports the team to produce work efficiently and profitably.
  • Assists the project manager in creating labor hour budgets for projects. Working with Clients - Client Responsibilities
  • Develop good client and/or related business relationships.
  • Enhance HLB's value to the client and promote the firm.
  • Use communication tools to manage client expectations.

Working with Clients - Client Responsibilities
  • Starts to develop good client and/or related business relationships - working well with their equal at other firms
  • 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
  • Exhibit flexibility and cooperation with teammates.
  • Manage own work time and priorities and show ability to also do this with the project team.
  • Understand good framework for resolving issues.
  • Interface among the principals, design/technical staff and business team as needed.

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.
  • Represent 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.
  • Look for opportunities to collaborate with other HLB offices on project, DOF, C2Q, 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, Vision - as applicable to their role or business group
  • Ability to prioritize / time management skills
  • Self-motivated and self-directed
  • Team player
  • Motivator
  • Dependable

Education & Experience
  • Bachelor's degree or above in Lighting Design or Architectural Engineering or Architecture or Interior Design or Theatrical Lighting or related education and experience
  • 2 to 4 years' experience
  • Certification in Lighting Design (e.g. LC) or certification related to their field / degree or endeavoring to obtain it.
  • LEED BD+C or endeavors to achieve
  • IALD Associate level or above or endeavoring to obtain it.
  • Participate in industry related professional organizations locally

Compensation
$73,300 to $77,900
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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