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Lighting Designer Jobs in Alberta (NOW HIRING)

Lighting layouts * Power distribution drawings * Cable tray routing * Grounding layouts * Motor ... Ensure designs align with project scope, quality standards, and client requirements. * Leadership ...

Calculates Electrical loads, lighting levels, service, and distribution requirements. * Designs, sources, and evaluates fire alarm systems. * References the product cost estimate during the drawing ...

Designer - Electrical Location: Calgary, AB Job Type: Hybrid - WFH + In Office Who We Are Smith ... Develop lighting layouts and coordinate with other disciplines. * Develop power distribution ...

Intermediate Electrical Designer

Calgary, AB · On-site

CA$74K - CA$138K/yr

The designer works under the supervision of the design supervisor or the discipline lead engineer ... lighting, and grounding design drawings and associated MTOs - Prepare single line diagrams ...

Crate and Barrel Designers are passionate about helping customers envision possibilities with the ... Understanding of basic design functions including spatial planning, fabric selection, lighting ...

Intermediate Electrical Designer Come grow with us! Are you capable of more? Do you want broader ... AGI32 or Visual (lighting calculations) * Industry standards including CEC, NBC, NFPA, CSA and NECB ...

Interior Designer Full-time | Year-Round | Blackfalds, AB Aggregate Design Studio is a team of ... Exposure to niche design work such as signage, flooring, or lighting design * Understanding design ...

Interior Designer Full-time | Year-Round | Blackfalds, AB Aggregate Design Studio is a team of ... Exposure to niche design work such as signage, flooring, or lighting design * Understanding design ...

Interior Designer Full-time | Year-Round | Blackfalds, AB Aggregate Design Studio is a team of ... Exposure to niche design work such as signage, flooring, or lighting design * Understanding design ...

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Showing results 1-20

Lighting Designer information

See Alberta salary details

$16K

$67.9K

$98.5K

How much do lighting designer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for lighting designer in Alberta is $67,922.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,000.00 and $88,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are lighting designers in demand?

Lighting designers are in demand in industries such as entertainment, architecture, and events, where specialized knowledge of lighting technology and design is valued. Employment opportunities depend on project availability and regional market growth, with skills in CAD software and knowledge of energy-efficient lighting increasing employability.

What does a lighting designer do?

A Lighting Designer is responsible for creating the lighting scheme for theatrical productions, concerts, events, film, or architectural spaces. They work closely with directors, set designers, and other team members to establish the mood, focus, and atmosphere through lighting. Their role includes choosing lighting equipment, creating lighting plots, programming lighting consoles, and overseeing the setup and operation during performances. Lighting Designers use both creative and technical skills to enhance the visual impact of a production or environment.

What is a lighting designer?

A lighting designer (LD) designs the lighting setup for a stage production. It’s your job to create a “light plot” that dictates when and where specific lighting is needed on stage. Your typical job duties involve determining areas the light is needed, creating light cues for lighting changes, and collaborating with lighting technicians and electricians. Other common responsibilities are to edit the plan during rehearsals. Some lighting designers also manage the lighting budget. The job doesn’t usually entail actually running the lighting during performances.

What are some common challenges lighting designers face when working on live events or productions?

Lighting Designers often work under tight deadlines and must adapt quickly to last-minute changes in production or creative direction. Coordinating with directors, set designers, and technical crews requires clear communication to ensure the lighting plan enhances the overall vision without causing technical issues. Balancing creative goals with practical constraints like budget, venue limitations, and safety regulations is a frequent challenge. Additionally, troubleshooting equipment or programming issues during rehearsals or live performances demands strong problem-solving skills and the ability to stay calm under pressure.

What is the difference between Lighting Designer vs Lighting Technician?

AspectLighting DesignerLighting Technician
CredentialsOften requires a degree in lighting design, theater, or related field; certifications like CLD (Certified Lighting Designer) are commonTypically has technical training or certification in lighting technology or electrical work; may have hands-on experience
Work EnvironmentDesigns lighting plans for theaters, events, film, and architectural projectsSets up, operates, and maintains lighting equipment on set or stage
Employer & IndustryEmployed by theaters, production companies, architectural firms, or freelanceWorks for production companies, theaters, or as freelancers in live events and film

While both roles work with lighting, the Lighting Designer focuses on creating the overall lighting concept and plans, whereas the Lighting Technician handles the technical setup and operation of lighting equipment based on those designs.

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 entertainment and theater may earn higher salaries or project-based fees. Many also supplement income through freelance work or consulting.

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 strong understanding of lighting principles, color theory, and spatial design, often supported by a relevant degree or training in theatrical or architectural lighting. Familiarity with lighting design software (such as AutoCAD, Vectorworks, or WYSIWYG), lighting control systems, and industry-standard fixtures is essential. Creativity, attention to detail, and effective collaboration with directors and other design professionals are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure visually compelling, safe, and technically feasible lighting solutions that meet both artistic and practical project requirements.
What job categories do people searching Lighting Designer jobs in Alberta look for? The top searched job categories for Lighting Designer jobs in Alberta are:
What are popular job titles related to Lighting Designer jobs in AB? For Lighting Designer jobs in AB, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Lighting Designer job openings in Alberta as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 74% In-person, and 26% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $67,922 per year, or $32.7 per hour.

Job description

Purpose: Reporting to the Technical Director, the incumbent is responsible for maintenance and operation of company lighting and special effects equipment. The incumbent ensures good relations with a variety of interest groups, including casual labor, IATSE locals and personnel, the performing arts industry, and the community at large.

Responsibilities:

Leadership and Mentorship:

  • Provides a comfortable and safe place to work.
  • Motivates and develops direct reports.
  • Contributes to good inter-departmental communication and interpersonal relations.
  • Communicates our mission and values to all stakeholders.

Build and prepare for new creations and remounts/rentals:

  • Maintenance and pre-tour maintenance of all theatrical equipment, properties, scenic elements and cratage when required by senior management.
  • Installation of lighting plots as provided.
  • When required by the Ballet, adaptation of lighting designs for the various performance venues and execution of documentation required for the designs, including lighting plots, dimmer controls, cue sheets, and color lists.
  • Working closely with all members of the production department to ensure the highest possible quality of performance presentations.
  • Organization and delegation of all work in the department, including the hanging of lights, cabling, focusing, operation of the same and the placement of color in each performance venue.
  • Assist in the loading of the trailer prior to a tour and the unloading following the tour.
  • Must be fully versed in the operation of all lighting, special effects and miscellaneous technical equipment and accessories and on occasion will be called upon to operate such equipment while the company is on tour.
  • Assist in the unloading and loading of the trailer at performance venues.
  • Supervise and assist the department at all technical rehearsals, cueing sessions, and performances.
  • Act as Board Op for Alberta Ballet
  • Compiling all new design information including materials used, vendors and material pricing.
  • Acting as the liaison between production management and the casual lighting crew.
  • Determining if any supplemental pieces are required to fulfill the shows lighting requirements.
  • Managing the rebuild/maintenance requirements for the Nutcracker on a yearly basis as determined by the age and functionality of the lighting requirements.
  • Acting as the buyer for the department and gathering supplies as needed.

Expense tracking, budget management, and reporting:

  • Tracking all expenses for the department including invoices and visa statements.
  • Entering all expenses into a shared expense tracking worksheet as required.
  • Breaking down and managing maintenance budgets each year as required.

Administration:

  • Responsible for the general organization of information contained within the lighting department.
  • Managing all digital and hard copy files, digital archives are preferred over hard copy.
  • Maintain the company lighting inventory at the company warehouse location and in the venue.
  • Assist in implementation of company inventory database upgrade at warehouse.

Qualifications:

  • Sound interpersonal, team building skills, and a positive attitude.
  • Strong leadership skills.
  • 5 years minimum professional lighting experience that may include but not limited to theatre and film production.
  • A post-secondary education in theatrical lighting is of benefit but not required.
  • Strong understanding of the lighting design process.
  • Good working knowledge of Office365, Lightwrite, and Vectorworks or AutoCAD.
  • Good working knowledge of the Grand MA. Knowledge of ETC Gio an asset.
  • Budget management skills are an asset but not required.
  • Must be a full member of IATSE 212 or have sister status with IATSE 212 if from an outside local.
  • Must be Pink Card eligible.

Working conditions/physical requirements:

  • The schedule for prep in the warehouse is Monday to Friday 9:00am to 6:00pm and is outlined in the production schedule for days of work required.
  • The Lead Lighting will be required to travel with the company primarily between September and May (including December, no exceptions) or as outlined in the production schedule.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, walk, use hands, speak, and hear. The employee must lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
  • Must be prepared to use his or her own personal vehicle for occasional company business and will be reimbursed for such use on a kilometer basis.
  • A demonstrable ability to handle a deadline oriented, fast pace environment.

The Lead Lighting is expected to be punctual, personable, and work well with others. This position requires strong organizational, leadership, and problem-solving skills and self-motivated attitude towards the work.

Primarily, but not limited to, working at the Alberta Ballet Warehouse for prep and the Southern/Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium.

Key Relationships:

  • Ensure working relationships with the Artistic Director, Artistic Operations Manager, Rehearsal Directors, Production Department, Stage Management, Dancers, and Wardrobe as well as with representative of the School of Alberta Ballet.
  • Ensure working collaboration with Alberta Ballet administrative staff.
  • Foster good relations and communication with a variety of interest groups - these include suppliers, IATSE locals, the performing arts industry, and the community at large.
  • Act always in the best interest of Alberta Ballet in promoting its artistic objectives.

The position of Lead Lighting is subject to the rates, terms, and conditions as outlined in the IATSE White contract dated IATSE Canadian Pink Contract. This position is included as Alberta Ballet Regular Crew. The Lead Lighting position is subject to all Alberta Ballet company policies and procedures. The Lead Lighting will be required to complete a police background check as a condition of employment.