ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Lighting Designer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Clark Nexsen

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 ...

Clark Nexsen

Lighting Practice Leader

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$125K - $140K/yr

Lead lighting designer for complex projects across various markets (e.g., education, government, healthcare, workplace, civic) * Develop innovative lighting concepts that integrate with architectural ...

Shades of Light,LLC

Lighting Finisher I

Midlothian, VA · On-site

$16/hr

... lighting designs. Since that time, the company has grown to become a national, multi-channel ... retailer of lighting and other home decor products, including rugs, furniture, mirrors, fans, and ...

Rosendin

Data Center Designer III

Hanover, VA · On-site

Lead lighting design and controls effort using Owner requirements and RFP information to determine appropriate solutions. This includes the supervision of other designers to implement a complete ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsLighting Designer JobsLighting Designer Jobs in Virginia

Lighting Designer information

See Virginia salary details

$48.6K

$72.1K

$93.2K

How much do lighting designer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for lighting designer in Virginia is $72,143.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,400.00 and $79,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 Virginia? The most popular types of Lighting Designer jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Lighting Designer jobs in Virginia? For Lighting Designer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lighting Designer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Lighting Designer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Lighting Designer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Lighting Designer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Lighting Designer jobs in VA? For Lighting Designer jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Lighting Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lighting Designer job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,143 per year, or $34.7 per hour.
Lighting Designer

Lighting Designer

Johnson Mirmiran and Thompson, Inc.

Virginia Beach, VA • On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson rating

9.8

Company rating: 9.8 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 443 rated engineering

Job description


Join Clark Nexsen, a JMT Company, and become part of a dynamic, collaborative team dedicated to delivering exceptional service to our clients-while making a meaningful impact on our communities and the world through the projects we help bring to life.
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 types, including commercial, institutional, government, and mixed-use projects. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, creative, and eager to grow their technical and design skills in a collaborative team environment.
Immigration sponsorship or support (e.g. H1B, F-1 CPT/OPT/STEM OPT) is not available for this position, except for qualified candidates eligible for the TN visa classification.
Compensation for this position is $70,000.00 - $80,000.00, commensurate with experience, education and certifications. The provided range is a good faith estimate based on the requirements described within the job description. We notice that we receive a wide variety of applicants and recognize that the person selected may be less experienced or more experienced. If so, the actual salary range may vary from the estimate provided.
General responsibilities include but are not limited to the following
  • Assist in the development of lighting design concepts under the direction of senior staff
  • Perform lighting calculations using software such as AGi32, ElumTools, or LightStanza
  • Create lighting layouts and details in Revit and/or AutoCAD
  • Support the preparation of specifications, schedules, and lighting control strategies
  • Coordinate with architects, interior designers, and engineers to integrate lighting into the overall design
  • Conduct research on lighting products and technologies
  • Assist with the preparation of presentations, renderings, and documentation

Required Experience
  • 0-5 years of Experience with IES standards, energy codes, and NEC
  • Knowledge of daylighting strategies, including LEED/WELL design concepts
  • Working knowledge of Revit and lighting control systems
  • Membership or interest in IES, IALD, or similar professional organizations

Working Conditions
At JMT, we prioritize a healthy work/life balance and offer a flexible hybrid working schedule. The selected candidate is expected to work in a JMT office location at least three days per week or as needed to perform assigned duties. While most of our work is desk-based, there may be times when standing, walking, bending and lifting of minimal weight are required. Our office environment is comfortable, has adequate lighting and temperature, and is free from noise, dust, and other hazards. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law.
#firstline-KW1

What Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply