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Lighting Designer Programmer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lighting Designer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

The Lighting Designer will also provide the design and engineering to develop the construction documents for the installation, interconnection and control of lighting fixtures. Essential Job ...

Lighting Designer

Miami, FL · On-site

$68K - $73K/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 ...

Lighting Designer

Centerville, MN · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Responsible for lighting console programming, operation and execution * Other duties as assigned ... designed to help you stay healthy, feel secure and maintain work/life balance. Offering a ...

Lighting Designer

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

We are seeking a Lighting Designer to join our electrical team and will work under the direction of a senior engineer/designer. This individual will support lighting design for a variety of building ...

Lighting Designer

Centerville, MN · On-site +1

$25 - $28/hr

Responsible for lighting console programming, operation and execution * Other duties as assigned ... designed to help you stay healthy, feel secure and maintain work/life balance. Offering a ...

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 ...

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 ...

We are seeking a Lighting Designer to join our electrical team and will work under the direction of a senior engineer/designer. This individual will support lighting design for a variety of building ...

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 ...

Master's degree in Architectural Lighting or Architectural Engineering specializing in Lighting ... Designers (IALD) * Strong computer skill using AGI32, eLumtools, Revit, AutoCad and Microsoft ...

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 ...

Showing results 21-40

Lighting Designer Programmer information

See salary details

$81K

$144.5K

How much do lighting designer programmer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for lighting designer programmer in the United States is $142,701.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $143,000.00 and $143,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are hiring for Lighting Designer Programmer jobs?

Cities with the most Lighting Designer Programmer job openings:

What states have the most Lighting Designer Programmer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Lighting Designer Programmer jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Lighting Designer Programmer jobs?

For Lighting Designer Programmer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Lighting Designer

Chicago, IL • On-site

Ghafari Associates LLC
Architectural Services • 501 - 1,000 employees

$70K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Job Description:

General Summary

The Lighting Designer, with some supervision from the Director of Electrical Engineering or senior staff, provides design, analysis and engineering for lighting, lighting control systems and circuiting for new construction and/or renovation of industrial and commercial structures in conformance to client requirements and applicable codes. The Lighting Designer will also provide the design and engineering to develop the construction documents for the installation, interconnection and control of lighting fixtures.

Essential Job Functions:

  • Possess / demonstrate the engineering knowledge and understanding to design, analyze, and engineer electrical systems for the installation, interconnection, and control of lighting systems, sizing of equipment, etc.
  • Review and/or establish project scope, electrical budget, design approach, and applicable constraints with the Project Manager or client as appropriate.
  • Adhere to project quality, budget, and schedule.
  • Prepare feasibility studies and schematic design packages of lighting, lighting control systems, etc.
  • Possess / demonstrate the graphic ability to produce construction documents per company standards whether presenting mark-ups to CAD drafter or performing CAD drafting.
  • Communication and work with all other disciplines to produce coordinated construction documents.
  • With assistance, edit and draft project specifications.
  • Conduct field measuring and checking at the project site.
  • Maintain organized project file containing project calculations, correspondence, appropriate reference materials, etc.
  • Review project submittals (shop drawings) for conformance with contract documents; specify action required for conformance.
  • Perform related duties as assigned.

Employment Qualifications:

Education:

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field.

Experience

  • 5+ years related experience in the lighting design engineering field

Certification:

  • Lighting Certification (L.C). preferred

Skills/Competencies:

  • Proficiency in Autodesk Revit and AutoCAD
  • Proficiency in AGI32 and ElumTools Lighting Design Software
  • Knowledge and application skills for design of facility lighting systems including lighting and power branch distribution
  • Bluebeam
  • BIM 360 and Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC)
  • Excellent written and verbal communication
  • Strong attention to detail

Benefits:

At Ghafari, we offer a robust benefits package designed to support your overall wellbeing. In addition to a competitive salary, eligible employees receive Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Short-Term & Long-Term Disability, 401(k) match, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Teladoc, Employee Assistance Program, Professional License Reimbursement, Educational Assistance, Voluntary Pet Insurance, Parental Leave, Paid Time Off, and 8 Paid Holidays. The annual base salary range for this position is $70,000.00 to $85,000.00. Individual pay is based on factors such as relevant experience, job-related skills, education, and training

Since 1982, Ghafari Associates has taken a personal approach to highly technical projects in complex markets including: aviation, manufacturing, healthcare, retail, hospitality, K-12 and higher education. As a global team of engineers, architects, process designers, and consultants we blend insight with technological innovation helping clients elevate their efficiency, sustainability, and impact.

Continuously rated aTop Workplace to Work, Crain'sCool Place to Work, and aBest and Brightestcompany to work for in the US, Ghafari has made a name for itself through our culture, employee benefits, andportfolio of projects.

Over a quarter of Ghafari employees have diverse identities that are championed by our growing approach to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Ghafari supports hybrid and in-office work environments.

Through career mapping, Ghafari employees are encouraged to seek licensure, coached for knowledge growth, and provided opportunities for management and mentorship roles if interested. Our robust internship program recognizes undergraduate and graduate students from across the world, having an over 90% success rate of hiring our interns after graduation.

Join our team and work on forward-thinking projects all around the world. Ghafari's global reach creates an environment where individuals can build professional relationships while building sustainable and cutting-edge facilities. Are you ready to take that leap? Apply Now!

Ghafari Associates, LLC is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities in the employment application process. If you need an accommodation due to a disability in order to use our online system to apply for a position at Ghafari Associates, LLC, you may apply for positions in the following ways:

Connect to our job portal (https://ghafari.jobs)
By fax at 313.436.8624; Attn: Human Resources
By mail at 17101 Michigan Avenue, Dearborn, MI 48126; Attn: Human Resources
In person at 17101 Michigan Avenue, Dearborn, MI 48126.
By email at hr@ghafari.com
If there are any questions or additional accommodations that are required, please contact 313.441.3000 for assistance.

It is Ghafari Associates, LLC's policy not to discriminate in its employment and personnel practices because of a person's race, color, creed, religion, sex, national origin, age, weight, height, marital, pregnancy or parental status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service, status as a qualified individual with a disability or a protected veteran, or any other classification protected by federal, state or local law or ordinance.