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Lighting Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AE Design

Lighting Designer

Denver, CO · On-site

$87K - $99K/yr

At AE Design, we believe great design starts with great people. Founded in 2004 on a foundation of ... General Role Description At AE Design, our Lighting Designers create thoughtful, innovative ...

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 ...

EwingCole

Lighting Designer I

Manhattan, NY · Hybrid

$72K - $95K/yr

The Lighting Designer I performs lighting design and documentation as the lead-role on smaller projects and under the support of a senior lighting designer on larger more complex projects. Individual ...

Liaison Technology Group

Lighting Designer

Nashville, TN · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Lighting Design & Specification * Develop lighting designs and coordinated specifications for residential and commercial projects * Translate design intent into detailed lighting and lighting control ...

EwingCole

Lighting Designer I

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$72K - $95K/yr

The Lighting Designer I performs lighting design and documentation as the lead-role on smaller projects and under the support of a senior lighting designer on larger more complex projects. Individual ...

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 ...

EwingCole

Lighting Designer II

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$120K/yr

The Lighting Designer II performs lighting design and oversees documentation of a variety of project types, sizes and market segments. Senior position within the lighting department with ...

HLB Lighting Design

Lighting Designer

Miami, FL · On-site

$68K - $73K/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 - $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

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 ...

EwingCole

Lighting Designer II

Manhattan, NY · Hybrid

$90K - $120K/yr

The Lighting Designer II performs lighting design and oversees documentation of a variety of project types, sizes and market segments. Senior position within the lighting department with ...

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Lighting Design information

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$49K

$72.8K

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How much do lighting design jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 19, 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 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.

What do you do as a Lighting Designer?

A Lighting Designer plans and creates lighting schemes for various spaces, such as theaters, events, or architectural projects. They select and position lighting fixtures, collaborate with clients and other designers, and use tools like lighting design software to achieve the desired visual effects. The role often requires knowledge of electrical systems, color theory, and safety standards.

How much do lighting designers make in the US?

Lighting designers in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000 to $80,000, with experienced professionals and those working on large projects earning higher wages. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and the complexity of projects, and many lighting designers also hold certifications or specialized skills in lighting software and design principles.

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 qualifications does a Lighting Designer need?

Lighting Designers typically need a bachelor's degree in lighting design, architecture, theater production, or a related field. Strong knowledge of lighting technology, design software, and safety standards is essential, along with creativity and good communication skills. Some roles may require certification or experience in specific lighting systems or environments.

How much are lighting designers 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 with advanced skills and certifications can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $100,000 annually.

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.
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Lighting Design jobs near you
Lighting Designer

Lighting Designer

AE Design

Denver, CO • On-site

$87K - $99K/yr

Full-time

Vision, Retirement

Posted 4 days ago

Be an early applicant

Job description

At AE Design, we believe great design starts with great people. Founded in 2004 on a foundation of friendship and shared vision, our firm has grown into a dynamic team dedicated to delivering exceptional design solutions. Our culture is built on collaboration, curiosity, and a commitment to excellence. We foster an environment where knowledge is shared, ideas are valued, and every team member is empowered to contribute to our success. Through proactive communication and meticulous attention to detail, we create seamless experiences for our clients-anticipating needs, solving challenges, and delivering thoughtful, responsible designs.

As an integral part of the Denver AEC community, we take pride in supporting industry organizations and local nonprofits that align with our values. Sustainability, innovation, and partnership are at the heart of everything we do, ensuring that our work not only meets today's needs but also contributes to a better future. At AE Design, we don't just complete projects-we build lasting relationships, provide high-touch service, and make our clients' lives easier. Our passion for design and dedication to excellence drive us forward, shaping the spaces and communities we serve.

General Role Description

At AE Design, our Lighting Designers create thoughtful, innovative lighting solutions that enhance the built environment and support the overall project vision. This role works collaboratively with internal design teams, clients, and consultants to develop lighting concepts from programming through construction documentation for projects of varying size and complexity.

The ideal candidate is creative, detail-oriented, and proactive, with a passion for design collaboration and technical execution.

How You'll Spend Your Day

  • Assist in the design and development of lighting solutions across a variety of project types and complexities
  • Collaborate with clients, consultants, architects, and internal design teams to develop conceptual through detailed lighting designs
  • Perform photometric calculations and analysis to verify design intent and performance
  • Support the preparation and coordination of construction documents and specifications
  • Review drawings and construction documents for alignment with design intent
  • Participate in client and project meetings throughout the project lifecycle
  • Coordinate with multidisciplinary teams to ensure integrated project solutions
  • Support project goals, deadlines, and deliverables alongside the Senior Lighting Designer
  • Perform other duties as assigned

What You Bring to the Table

  • 2–5 years of professional experience in an architectural, lighting design, or MEP environment with a focus on lighting design
  • Undergraduate degree in Architectural Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Lighting Design, or a related discipline
  • Experience with AutoCAD, Revit, Bluebeam, COMcheck, and photometric software
  • Strong communication and collaboration skills
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment
  • Passion for design, problem-solving, and continuous learning

What You'll Enjoy When You Join Us

  • Competitive salary and benefit plan (401k, HSA and more)
  • An environment which supports continued education, professional development and personal growth with opportunities to learn outside of the office and through our mentorship program
  • An open office, enthusiastic and collaborative coworkers, and out of office events ranging from happy hours to ski trips
  • A dedication to a true work-life balance
  • The chance to work on a variety of projects, and learn about low-voltage, audio/visual, special systems, commissioning and the other services we provide
  • The opportunity to get out of the office for site visits, client visits, seminars and networking opportunities
  • A condensed 4.5 day work week - we work full time, but we love our half day Fridays!
  • A great bonus incentive program
  • Opportunity to help grow with a highly reputable company who does beautiful work