ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Lighting Designer Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Paisley Park

Lighting Designer

Chanhassen, MN · On-site

$20 - $28/hr

Become a Lighting Designer for Paisley Park, where art, music, events, fashion, culture, and history are celebrated. This is an On-Call position located within the Production Department when events ...

Paisley Park

On Call Lighting Designer

Chanhassen, MN · On-site

$20 - $28/hr

Become a Lighting Designer for Paisley Park, where art, music, events, fashion, culture, and history are celebrated. This is an On-Call position located within the Production Department when events ...

ANCELRAN INC

Lighting Sales & Design

Eden Prairie, MN · On-site

$16 - $24/hr

We are seeking a customer-focused Lighting Sales & Design Consultant to assist homeowners, designers, builders, and retail customers with lighting selections, layouts, and product recommendations.

ANCELRAN INC

Lighting Sales & Design

Eden Prairie, MN · On-site

$16 - $24/hr

We are seeking a customer-focused Lighting Sales & Design Consultant to assist homeowners, designers, builders, and retail customers with lighting selections, layouts, and product recommendations.

ANCELRAN INC

Lighting Sales & Design

Eden Prairie, MN · On-site

$16 - $24/hr

Vision insurance We are seeking a customer-focused Lighting Sales & Design Consultant to assist homeowners, designers, builders, and retail customers with lighting selections, layouts, and product ...

Salas O'Brien, Inc.

Electrical Designer

Minneapolis, MN · Hybrid

$75K - $85K/yr

Electrical Designer (Hybrid) Job Summary / Responsibilities: Reports to: Senior Engineer and/or ... Lighting systems * Lighting controls * Receptacle layout and placement * Lighting and power ...

Salas O'Brien

Electrical Designer

Bloomington, MN · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Electrical Designer (Hybrid) Job Summary / Responsibilities: Reports to: Senior Engineer and/or ... Lighting systems * Lighting controls * Receptacle layout and placement * Lighting and power ...

Cushing Terrell

Electrical Designer

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$65K - $85K/yr

Familiarity with lighting design fundamentals, including IES footcandle standards and lighting ... Coordinate with Engineers of Record and fellow designers throughout the design process ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsLighting Designer JobsLighting Designer Jobs in Minnesota

Lighting Designer information

See Minnesota salary details

$48K

$71.3K

$92.1K

How much do lighting designer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for lighting designer in Minnesota is $71,269.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,700.00 and $78,400.00 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.
More about Lighting Designer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Lighting Designer jobs in Minnesota?

The most popular types of Lighting Designer jobs in Minnesota are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Lighting Designer jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Lighting Designer job openings:

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

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

Lighting Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lighting Designer job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $71,269 per year, or $34.3 per hour.

Lighting Designer

Paisley Park

Chanhassen, MN • On-site

$20 - $28/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Become a Lighting Designer for Paisley Park, where art, music, events, fashion, culture, and history are celebrated.  This is an On-Call position located within the Production Department when events are hosted onsite at Paisley Park.  Responsibilities- Efficiently run all lighting aspects during events, performances, and productions.- Working with events team and production team to create the right lighting show for each event.- Ability to turn an idea into a lighting concept and mood.- Participate in the installation, focus, and maintenance of lighting equipment. Qualifications- Minimum 2 years working as a lighting designer for productions or events.- Knowledge of multiple lighting consoles, software, and formats.- Excellent communication skills.- Excellent attention to detail.- Experience working with a team and independently.- Must be able to work under pressure, including time constraints, and achieve results thoroughly and quickly. Note: As Prince was a pescatarian, Paisley Park is a pescatarian food environment. Eggs, fish, and cheese are fine; beef, pork, chicken, and other meats can be eaten in your car, or you may take meals off-site.If offered the position, the offer is contingent upon passing a background check and a four-panel background screen which does NOT include THC.
Job Posted by ApplicantPro