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Lighting Designer Programmer Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Utility Designer

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

... lighting, and commercial, industrial, and residential development. The position requires using ... An engineering degree is preferred. * A valid driver's license is required. * Motor vehicle checks ...

Senior Technology Designer

Cleveland, OH · On-site

$125K - $160K/yr

... and transportation engineering, as well as lighting design and commissioning. As an ... We have an open door policy to drive creativity in our designs and thought methodology. As an ...

As a Substation Physical Designer, you'll develop the physical design of high-voltage substation ... Lighting, or equivalent). * Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification, with progress toward ...

Showing results 21-40

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.
Infographic showing various Lighting Designer Programmer job openings in Ohio as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Substation Physical Designer

Columbus, OH • On-site

Nexus Engineering Group
Specialized Design Services • 51 - 200 employees

$70K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Nexus Engineering Group is employee-owned, full-service, and growing our Substation Department. As a Substation Physical Designer, you'll develop the physical design of high-voltage substation projects - and grow from production support toward independent design.
You'll produce the general arrangement layouts, elevation and section views, grounding, conduit routing, and equipment placement that bring substations to life - from new builds to upgrades and expansions. Working alongside a collaborative team of engineers and designers, you'll take on more ownership as you develop, building toward independent design of substation physical packages.
Why Nexus
You'll own a piece of what you build. Nexus is employee-owned through our ESOP, so the value you help create comes back to you - not just outside shareholders. We invest in our engineers and give them room to grow into greater ownership of the work.
What you can expect:
  • Employee ownership (ESOP) - build equity in the firm as it grows
  • Real ownership that grows with you - from production support toward independent design
  • Mentorship from senior engineers and designers on a collaborative team
  • Full-service EPCm exposure, from concept through startup, across a diverse client base
  • Career paths that grow with you - toward technical leadership, project management, or discipline leadership
  • Flexible work arrangements where business needs allow

What You'll Do
  • Develop and revise physical layouts, elevation and section views, below-grade drawings, and supporting documentation in CAD, with growing independence as you develop.
  • Lay out grounding systems (IEEE Std 80), conduit and cable routing, bus arrangements, and equipment placement.
  • Build and maintain cable/conduit lists, nameplates, and client-specific documentation.
  • Assist the project lead in developing physical documentation, applying technical design standards.
  • Apply internal and external processes, procedures, and design standards (IEEE, ANSI, NEC, NESC).
  • Coordinate with drafters, designers, other disciplines, clients, and vendors to deliver complete, constructible packages.

What We're Looking For
Required Qualifications
  • Associate Degree in a technical discipline or equivalente technical experience.
  • 2+ years of experience in substation, power delivery, or electrical design.
  • Proficiency with CAD (AutoCAD and/or MicroStation).
  • Familiarity with substation physical design - layouts, grounding (IEEE Std 80), conduit and cable routing, and equipment placement.
  • Working knowledge of IEEE, ANSI, NEC, and NESC standards.
  • Ability to travel to project and substation sites, some of which are not accessible by public transportation.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Inventor or Substation Design Suite (SDS) experience.
  • Grounding or photometric analysis software (WinIGS, CDEGS, AGi32, Visual Lighting, or equivalent).
  • Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification, with progress toward Professional Engineer (PE) licensure.

Work Environment & Physical Demands
This role combines office-based design work with periodic visits to substation and construction sites. This role may require:
  • Periodic travel to substation and construction sites
  • Appropriate PPE on site, including arc-rated clothing
  • The ability to access outdoor substation yards and walk uneven terrain, with or without reasonable accommodation

$70,000 - $100,000 a year
The posted salary range represents the anticipated base pay for this position in accordance with applicable pay-transparency requirements and may vary based on experience, qualifications, skills, certifications, work location, and market conditions.
In addition to base pay, eligible employees may receive:
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) - an ownership stake and a share in the long-term success of Nexus
  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage, plus life and disability insurance
  • 401(k) with company match and discretionary bonus opportunities
  • Paid time off, holidays, and paid parental leave
  • Professional development and career advancement - training, certifications, licensure support, tuition assistance, and mentorship
  • Wellness benefits and a flexible schedule where business needs allow

About Nexus Engineering Group
Nexus Engineering Group, a distinguished independent full-service engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCm) firm, provides comprehensive support to clients from concept through startup. With over a decade of demonstrated engineering and design success, Nexus stands out as the firm of choice for those valuing integrity and expertise.
At Nexus, you will be part of a talented and passionate team dedicated to excellence and innovation. We foster a collaborative and engaging work environment, making it a place where you'll enjoy contributing to impactful projects. Joining Nexus means aligning with a firm renowned for its creativity, dedication, and relentless focus on achieving client goals.
Equal Opportunity Employer & Reasonable Accommodation
Nexus Engineering Group, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.
Nexus Engineering Group is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities throughout the application and hiring process. If you require an accommodation to participate in any part of the recruitment process, please contact us at [email protected].
Sponsorship & Work Authorization
Nexus Engineering Group does not provide employment visa sponsorship of any kind, including CPT, OPT, or employment-based visas. Candidates must be currently authorized to work in the United States and must be able to maintain that authorization throughout employment without any action, filing, or sponsorship by the company. This requirement applies both at the time of hire and on a continuing basis for the duration of employment.
Third-Party Agency Notice
Nexus Engineering Group does not accept unsolicited resumes or candidate submissions from external recruiters or agencies. We only engage approved third-party partners under a written agreement initiated by our Talent Acquisition team for specific searches. Any resumes submitted without prior authorization or a current agreement will not be eligible for placement fees and will be considered the property of Nexus Engineering Group.
We may use AI tools to help our recruitment team review and organize applications. These tools support - but never replace - human judgment, and final hiring decisions are made by people. If you'd like to know more about how your data is handled, contact us at [email protected].