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Lighting Designer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Graphic Designer

Rock Valley, IA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Graphic Designer Client: Heavy Machine Manufacturing Company Location: Rock Valley, IA 51247 Duration: 12 Months (Possible extension) Shift: 1st Shift (8:00 AM - 4:30 PM) Job Summary Entry-level ...

Job Type Full-time Description Shive-Hattery's Iowa City office has an immediate full-time opening for an Interior Designer with 2 to 5 years of experience. We are a full-service design firm offering ...

Utilize engineering software and tools to create detailed designs, specifications, and calculations according to code requirements and IMEG standards. * Interact with clients to understand their ...

Marketing Visual Designer The TRX Marketing Design team is looking for a Marketing Visual Designer to support Picksy, a new offering from People Inc. The primary focus for this role will be helping ...

Substation Physical Designer Department: Power Employment Type: Full Time Location: Des Moines, IA Compensation: $75,000 - $100,000 / year Description Founded in 1973, ISG is a multi-disciplinary ...

New

Senior Electrical Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$104K - $136K/yr

Proven experience as an Electrical Engineer designing power and lighting building systems on complex projects. * Experience with BIM, specifically Revit MEP. Preferred Qualifications: * LEED ...

Senior ICT Designer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$99K - $106K/yr

In the role of Senior ICT Designer, we'll count on you to: * Evaluate, select and apply state-of-the-art ICT system, techniques, procedures, design and modifications * Design and specify ICT systems ...

Senior ICT Designer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$99K - $106K/yr

In the role of Senior ICT Designer, we'll count on you to: * Evaluate, select and apply state-of-the-art ICT system, techniques, procedures, design and modifications * Design and specify ICT systems ...

At dbHMS, we employ engineers in mechanical, electrical, and plumbing design; industry professionals focusing on sustainability and technical concepts; lighting designers; technology engineers; and ...

Showing results 41-60

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.

What are popular job titles related to Lighting Designer jobs in Iowa?

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:

What are popular job titles related to Lighting Designer jobs in IA?

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

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.

Graphic Designer

Three Point Solutions

Rock Valley, IA • On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Job Title:         Graphic Designer

Client:              Heavy Machine Manufacturing Company
Location:         Rock Valley, IA 51247
Duration:         12 Months (Possible extension)
Shift:                1st Shift (8:00 AM – 4:30 PM)

Job Summary

Entry-level Graphic Designer responsible for creating marketing materials, product photography, and brand-aligned visual content. Focus on Adobe Creative Suite, customer-centric design, and supporting marketing initiatives through creative execution.

Key Responsibilities (Mobile-Friendly)

• Design marketing materials (flyers, packaging, signage)
• Perform product photography and post-production editing
• Ensure brand guidelines and templates are followed
• Conduct customer-focused analysis (VOC, journey mapping)
• Research market trends and design benchmarks
• Support customer experience and design initiatives
• Deliver small design projects within timelines
• Maintain and support data/design systems
• Identify and report compliance or branding issues
• Handle parts for photography (up to 50 lbs if needed)

Core Duties

• Graphic design & visual content creation
• Product photography & editing
• Brand management & consistency
• Market & customer research support
• Project execution & coordination

Work Environment / Role Nature

• Creative + manufacturing hybrid role
• Mix of design work and hands-on photography
• Independent contributor with minimal supervision
• Requires attention to detail and brand alignment

Required Skills

• Adobe Photoshop & InDesign – 2+ years
• Graphic design experience – 2+ years
• Product photography (DSLR basics) – 1+ year
• Adobe Illustrator / Acrobat – 1+ year
• Excel proficiency – 1+ year
• Communication & self-management – 1+ year

Preferred Skills

• Adobe Lightroom / Camera Raw / Bridge – 1+ year
• Cataloging tools (Easy Catalog) – 1+ year
• Retail packaging design – 1+ year
• Point-of-purchase (POP) design – 1+ year
• Market research & customer insights – 1+ year

Technical / Functional Exposure

• Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator) – 2+ years
• Product photography & image editing – 1+ year
• Brand management & design systems – 1+ year
• Customer experience (VOC, journey mapping) – 1+ year
• Marketing collateral design – 1+ year

Education / Experience

• Minimum 2-year degree (Design/Creative field preferred)
• 4-year degree preferred
• 2–3 years of graphic design / photography experience

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