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Lighting Designer Programmer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

W3Global Inc.

Lighting Designer

El Cajon, CA · Hybrid

$80K - $120K/yr

Lighting Designer Employment Type: Full-Time, Hybrid (2 days onsite) Location: El Cajon, CA Job ... Work with engineering teams, architects, and contractors to ensure design accuracy and ...

HLB Lighting Design

Lighting Designer

Culver City, CA · On-site

$76K - $81K/yr

Position is 70% designer / 30% project manager. Achieving Results - Project Responsibilities * Use ... 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

Pay Range: $40.00-$43.00, overtime eligible The Lighting Designer will support the Director of ... Bachelor of Architectural Engineering - Lighting Design Degree required * Hospitality Lighting ...

HLB Lighting Design

Lighting Designer

Culver City, CA · On-site

$76K - $81K/yr

Position is 70% designer / 30% project manager. Achieving Results - Project Responsibilities * Use ... Bachelor's degree or above in Lighting Design or Architectural Engineering or Architecture or ...

Americas Region

Lighting Designer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

As lighting designers, we use the medium of light to shape and influence how people interact with ... Bachelor in Lighting Design, Architectural Engineering, Architectural or Interior Design * 4+ years ...

P2S

Lighting Designer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

P2S|CMTA stands as a provider of professional engineering services to a broad range of markets ... As a Lighting Designer you will be supporting the design team and projects in all aspects and ...

Arup

Lighting Designer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

As lighting designers, we use the medium of light to shape and influence how people interact with ... Bachelor in Lighting Design, Architectural Engineering, Architectural or Interior Design * 4+ years ...

Legence

Lighting Designer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

P2S|CMTA stands as a provider of professional engineering services to a broad range of markets ... As a Lighting Designer you will be supporting the design team and projects in all aspects and ...

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 ...

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 ...

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All JobsLighting Designer Programmer JobsLighting Designer Programmer Jobs in California

Lighting Designer Programmer information

What is a lighting designer programmer?

Lighting Designer Programmers are professionals responsible for creating, programming, and operating lighting designs for live events, theater productions, concerts, television, and other performances. They work with directors, producers, and other designers to develop lighting schemes that enhance the visual impact and mood of the production. Using specialized lighting software and control consoles, they program lighting cues, adjust lighting effects, and ensure smooth transitions throughout the show. Their technical expertise and creative vision are crucial in achieving the desired atmosphere and supporting the overall storytelling.

How does a lighting designer programmer typically collaborate with other production team members during a live event?

A Lighting Designer Programmer works closely with directors, stage managers, and audio-visual teams to ensure that lighting cues are perfectly synchronized with the overall production. During rehearsals and live events, they communicate frequently with these team members to adjust lighting designs in real-time based on performance needs and technical requirements. Collaboration is key, as the lighting must complement set changes, performer movements, and audio elements. This role often involves troubleshooting on the fly and adapting to last-minute changes, making teamwork and clear communication essential.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lighting designer programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lighting Designer Programmer, you need a strong background in lighting design principles, electrical systems, and typically a degree in theatre technology or related fields. Proficiency with lighting consoles (such as MA Lighting or ETC), programming software, and CAD visualisation tools is essential. Creativity, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for collaborating with directors and production teams. These skills ensure precise, dynamic lighting designs that enhance performances and meet technical and artistic requirements.

What is the difference between Lighting Designer Programmer vs Lighting Technician?

AspectLighting Designer ProgrammerLighting Technician
CredentialsLighting design certifications, programming skillsTechnical certifications, electrical knowledge
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, live events, theatersOn-site at venues, installation sites
Employer & IndustryEvent production companies, theaters, concertsProduction companies, touring shows, installations

Lighting Designer Programmers focus on creating lighting designs and programming lighting control systems, while Lighting Technicians handle installation, setup, and maintenance of lighting equipment. Both roles require technical skills, but their responsibilities and work environments differ significantly.

Are lighting designer programmers in demand?

Lighting designer programmers are in demand in the entertainment, theater, and event production industries, especially as technology advances and integrated lighting systems become more complex. Skills in programming lighting control software like DMX, MIDI, and visual programming tools increase employability, with opportunities often available for those with experience in design and technical troubleshooting.

How much does a lighting designer programmer get paid?

Lighting designer programmers typically earn between $50,000 and $90,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Salaries can increase with proficiency in programming languages like DMX, MIDI, or Art-Net, and familiarity with lighting control software such as GrandMA or Vectorworks.

What cities in California are hiring for Lighting Designer Programmer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Lighting Designer Programmer job openings:

Lighting Designer

El Cajon, CA • Hybrid

W3Global Inc.
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about W3Global Inc.external

$80K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Role: Lighting Designer
Employment Type: Full-Time, Hybrid (2 days onsite)
Location: El Cajon, CA

Job Summary:
We are seeking a detail-oriented Lighting Designer with strong technical design skills and experience in lighting systems for commercial projects. The ideal candidate will be responsible for developing lighting layouts, photometrics, fixture specifications, and lighting controls while ensuring compliance with applicable California codes, energy standards, and industry best practices.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Lighting Design: Develop lighting system designs including layouts, fixture selection, lighting controls, and photometric studies

  • Code Compliance: Ensure designs meet California Electrical Code, Building Code, Energy Code, Green Building Code, ADA Standards, NFPA 1104, and IESNA guidelines

  • Technical Drawings: Read and interpret construction documents and develop coordinated lighting design solutions

  • Photometrics & Calculations: Perform lighting calculations including Title 24 energy compliance and photometric analysis

  • Documentation: Prepare design documentation, respond to RFIs, and review submittals

  • Coordination: Work with engineering teams, architects, and contractors to ensure design accuracy and constructability

  • Tools & Software: Utilize AutoCAD, Revit, AGI32, Visual Lighting Design tools, Design Master, Energy Pro, and Microsoft Office applications

  • Field Support: Conduct site visits and coordinate with field teams as required

  • Supervision: Support and supervise junior technicians when needed

Required Qualifications:

  • 1-3 years of lighting design experience

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Architectural Engineering, Lighting Design, Architecture, or related field

  • Strong understanding of lighting design fundamentals including photometrics, fixture specifications, and lighting controls

  • Experience reading and interpreting construction documents

  • Knowledge of California Electrical, Building, Energy, and Green Building Codes

  • Experience with Title 24 calculations and energy compliance requirements

  • Proficiency in AutoCAD and Revit

  • Experience with lighting design tools such as AGI32, Design Master, Energy Pro, or similar software

  • Strong communication, coordination, and documentation skills

Work Environment:

  • Hybrid work model (2 days onsite, 3 days remote)

  • Fast-paced engineering and design environment

  • Collaborative multi-disciplinary team setting

  • Office and occasional field/site work required

Benefits:
100% paid Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance, Life and Disability Insurance, Flexible Spending Accounts, 401(k) with matching, Paid Time Off, Paid Holidays, Performance Bonuses, Continuing Education, Training, Career Development, Cell Phone Reimbursement

W3Global logo

About W3Global

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

W3Global has been delivering staffing solutions for nearly two decades; we know which recruiting strategies work best. Our expert team is committed to developing a customized solution to fit your company’s unique needs. As a W3Global client, you’ll also receive personalized assistance from a seasoned team of staffing specialists. We are committed to providing both technical support and industry expertise to simplify the hiring process. We know that your time matters. W3Global will help you streamline the hiring process, getting it done and getting it right.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Frisco, TX, US

Year founded

2006

View All W3Global Jobs