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Lighting Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rebel and Company Lighting

Be Seen First

Retail Sales and Lighting design

Los Gatos, CA · On-site

$60K - $90K/yr

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 ...

Clark Nexsen

Lighting Practice Leader

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$125K - $140K/yr

This role will oversee the full design process, from concept through construction, and will mentor ... Lead lighting designer for complex projects across various markets (e.g., education, government ...

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 ...

4pconsultinginc

Lighting Specialist II

Birmingham, AL · On-site

The ideal candidate has strong expertise in lighting design, NEC code compliance, photometrics, and electrical calculations , along with hands-on field experience and the ability to collaborate ...

Oral Roberts University

Lighting Designer

Tulsa, OK · On-site

OVERVIEW - FULL TIME Lighting design and implementation for ORU concerts and events. Responsible for all lighting inventory and maintenance of lighting equipment. Primary intelligent lighting ...

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Lighting Design information

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How much do lighting design jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for lighting design in the United States is $72,767.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,000.00 and $80,000.00 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.
More about Lighting Design jobs

What cities are hiring for Lighting Design jobs?

Cities with the most Lighting Design job openings:

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

The most popular types of Lighting Design jobs are:

What states have the most Lighting Design jobs?

States with the most job openings for Lighting Design jobs include:

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

The top searched job categories for Lighting Design jobs are:

Lighting Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lighting Design job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,767 per year, or $35 per hour.

Lighting Practice Leader

Johnson Mirmiran and Thompson, Inc.

Virginia Beach, VA • On-site

$125K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson rating

9.8

Company rating: 9.8 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 450 rated engineering

Job description


Join Clark Nexsen, a JMT Company, and become part of a dynamic, collaborative team dedicated to delivering exceptional service to our clients-while making a meaningful impact on our communities and the world through the projects we help bring to life.
We are looking for a Lighting Practice Leader who will be responsible for performing, directing, and supervising all aspects of lighting design across a diverse portfolio of projects. This role will oversee the full design process, from concept through construction, and will mentor junior designers. The ideal candidate is a creative, technically skilled, and client-focused professional with a strong portfolio in architectural lighting and the built environment.
Compensation for this position is $125,000.00 - $140,000.00, commensurate with experience, education and certifications. The provided range is a good faith estimate based on the requirements described within the job description. We notice that we receive a wide variety of applicants and recognize that the person selected may be less experienced or more experienced. If so, the actual salary range may vary from the estimate provided.
General responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:
  • Lead lighting designer for complex projects across various markets (e.g., education, government, healthcare, workplace, civic)
  • Develop innovative lighting concepts that integrate with architectural intent, within a multi-disciplinary firm with a focus on Integrated Design
  • Perform advanced lighting calculations, daylighting analysis, and energy code compliance
  • Oversee preparation of drawings, lighting layouts, schedules, specifications, and control strategies
  • Coordinate with internal and external design teams, clients, and consultants
  • Conduct site visits, mock-ups, and inspections
  • Manage lighting project budgets and timelines
  • Motivate and lead the lighting studio, supervise junior staff and contribute to staff development
  • Develop and maintain relations with various Clark Nexsen offices to ensure lighting design quality control / quality assurance is consistent, regardless of location
  • Interview, hire, and terminate staff when authorized. Evaluate the performance of department members and make recommendations for salary adjustments
  • Develop methods to incorporate "accountability" into individual performance
  • Monitor morale of the department
  • Develop systems of reward to recognize outstanding performance
  • Conduct annual department staff reviews and participate with Senior Leadership in review of staff assignments. Review and approve department staff timesheets and expense reports

Required Experience
  • Graduate of an ABET-accredited program with a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Architectural Engineering, Lighting Design, or related field
  • 10+ years of professional lighting design experience
  • Proficiency in AGi32, Elumtools or LightStanza, Revit, AutoCAD, and Microsoft Office Suite
  • Deep understanding of lighting technologies, controls, and code compliance
  • Excellent verbal and visual communication skills
  • Strong portfolio demonstrating creative and technical lighting design

Preferred Experience:
  • LC (Lighting Certified), LEED AP, or WELL AP
  • Experience with daylight modeling, parametric tools, or visualization software
  • Active involvement in IES, IALD, or similar organizations

Working Conditions
At JMT, we prioritize a healthy work/life balance and offer a flexible hybrid working schedule. The selected candidate is expected to work in a JMT office location at least three days per week or as needed to perform assigned duties. While most of our work is desk-based, there may be times when standing, walking, bending and lifting of minimal weight are required. Our office environment is comfortable, has adequate lighting and temperature, and is free from noise, dust, and other hazards. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law.
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