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Lighting Designer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Saigepartners

Electrical Engineer

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$70 - $95/hr

CLD (Certified Lighting Designer) or CTS (Certified Technology Specialist) certification. * Experience with ComCheck, energy modeling, arc flash studies, and electrical coordination studies.

Saige Partners

Electrical Engineer

Iowa City, IA · On-site +1

M.S. in Electrical Engineering or related field PE licensure in multiple states CLD (Certified Lighting Designer) or CTS (Certified Technology Specialist) certification Experience with ComCheck ...

Ruekert & Mielke

Electrical Engineer

Iowa City, IA · On-site

Handle electrical and technology system designs, including power distribution, lighting, fire detection, access control, and security * Ensure quality control, adherence to timelines, and budget ...

KCL Engineering

Electrical Designer

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

As an Electrical Designer - Level 1-2, you will play a key role in designing and coordinating electrical power and lighting systems within 3D architectural models, leveraging your skills in Autodesk ...

PSC Distribution Inc

Showroom Cabinet Designer

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$20 - $24.50/hr

The Showroom Cabinet Designer is responsible for guiding homeowners, contractors, and designers ... Dust, noise, or varying lighting conditions * Active construction or renovation areas * Exposure to ...

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All JobsLighting Designer JobsLighting Designer Jobs in Iowa

Lighting Designer information

See Iowa salary details

$46K

$68.3K

$88.3K

How much do lighting designer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for lighting designer in Iowa is $68,347.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,100.00 and $75,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

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.

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.
More about Lighting Designer jobs

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

What job categories do people searching Lighting Designer jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Lighting Designer jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Lighting Designer jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Lighting Designer job openings:

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

Lighting Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lighting Designer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,347 per year, or $32.9 per hour.

Electrical Engineer

Saigepartners

Iowa City, IA • On-site

$70 - $95/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Electrical Engineer Job Overview

Our client, in Civil Engineering, is seeking to add a NEW Electrical Engineer to their team. This role involves coordinating and supporting multi‑disciplinary engineering projects from initial planning through construction closeout. You’ll play a key role in managing project schedules, ensuring technical accuracy, and maintaining quality assurance. Collaboration with in‑house engineers, architects, and external partners will be essential to delivering high‑quality, integrated design solutions.

Responsibilities
  • Design and coordinate electrical and technology systems, including power distribution, lighting, fire detection, access control, and security systems.
  • Oversee project quality control, adherence to schedules, and budget alignment.
  • Prepare construction documents, technical specifications, and reports using Autodesk Revit, Bluebeam Revu, and electrical design software (ETAP/SKM).
  • Ensure compliance with applicable codes, project requirements, and industry standards.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to deliver cohesive, high‑performing designs.
  • Support project documentation, reporting, and review processes.
  • Contribute to the continuous improvement of design practices and workflows.
  • Communicate effectively with team members, clients, and project stakeholders.
Qualifications
  • B.S. in Electrical Engineering or a related field.
  • Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in Iowa, or ability to obtain licensure within 60 days.
  • Proficiency in Autodesk Revit, Bluebeam Revu, and electrical design software.
  • Demonstrated experience in commercial electrical design, including power, lighting, controls, and fire alarm systems.
  • Excellent problem‑solving, analytical, and organizational abilities.
  • Strong communication and client management skills.
  • Preferred: M.S. in Electrical Engineering or related field.
  • PE licensure in multiple states.
  • CLD (Certified Lighting Designer) or CTS (Certified Technology Specialist) certification.
  • Experience with ComCheck, energy modeling, arc flash studies, and electrical coordination studies.
  • Familiarity with ETAP/SKM software and AutoCAD MEP.
Compensation and Benefits
  • Employee ownership opportunities.
  • Performance‑based and extra‑hours bonuses.
  • Flexible and remote work options.
  • Generous paid time off and holiday schedule.
  • Comprehensive health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance.
  • 401(k) and Roth 401(k) with employer match.
  • Flexible spending accounts.
  • Tuition reimbursement and professional development support.
  • Employee Assistance Program and prepaid legal services.
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