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Lighting Designer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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

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

Designers work with customers to help plan and design their spaces. Through elevated designs and ... Understanding of basic design functions including spatial planning, fabric selection, lighting ...

Instructional Designer

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$62K - $85K/yr

SEACORP is seeking Instructional Designers at various levels to support mission-critical defense programs by developinghigh-quality dynamic, engaging, and experiential learning content with ...

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

Manufacturing Manager

Midlothian, VA · On-site

$88K - $107K/yr

Shades of Light started from humble beginnings in 1986 as a small, single retail location in historic Richmond, Virginia selling unique, high-style lighting designs. Since that time, the company has ...

Electrical Designer/Engineer At Salas O'Brien we tell our clients that we're engineered for impact ... Understanding and design of lighting systems, electrical, and fire alarm systems. * Perform ...

The ideal candidate is a self-driven designer with strong technical skills, experience in ... Experience with grounding studies, lightning protection studies, and lighting studies. At Kimley ...

Electrical Designer/Engineer At Salas O'Brien we tell our clients that we're engineered for impact ... Understanding and design of lighting systems, electrical, and fire alarm systems. * Perform ...

The ideal candidate is a self-driven designer with strong technical skills, experience in ... Experience with grounding studies, lightning protection studies, and lighting studies. Why Kimley ...

Showing results 41-60

Lighting Designer information

See Virginia salary details

$48.6K

$72.1K

$93.2K

How much do lighting designer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 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.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Lighting Designer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Lighting Designer jobs in Virginia 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:
Infographic showing various Lighting Designer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $72,143 per year, or $34.7 per hour.

Full-time

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Re-posted 14 hours ago


Rosendin Electric rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 53 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

24th of 80 rated construction


Job description

Whether you're a recent grad or a seasoned professional, you can experience meaningful career growth at Rosendin. Enjoy a true sense of ownership as you work with a proven industry leader on some of the most exciting and high-profile projects in the nation. We offer a wide range of job opportunities, competitive compensation, full benefits, an Employee Stock Ownership Plan and more.

Why Rosendin?Committed. Innovative. Engaged.

If you're looking to take your career to the next level and work with some of the best and brightest in the industry, we want to hear from you. Since our founding over 100+ years ago, Rosendin has been driven to positively impact the communities where we live and work. We are an organization built on integrity and we have a culture that empowers people, embraces diversity, and inspires everyone to do their best. As one of the largest EMPLOYEE-OWNED electrical contractors in the United States, you will have the unique benefit of being a shareholder at a company that is experiencing tremendous growth and success. When our people succeed and fuel our success, we reward them. We'd love to have you as a shareholder!

YOUR NEXT OPPORTUNITY:

Designer III is a senior designer position responsible for the development of the design to show equipment and device layouts and branch circuiting for power lighting and auxiliary drawings. Provide calculations and documentation for the design of lighting and power systems. Provide details as required to define and clarify the intent of the design on drawings. Work closely with project manager and project lead engineer and take design lead on projects. Coordinates with clients, architects, and other discipline engineers to complete drawings.

WHAT YOU'LL DO:
  • Mark up branch circuit lighting and power plans and fill in panel board schedules with moderate supervision.

  • Perform Energy Code calculations, documentation, and local jurisdiction energy requirements with little supervision.

  • Apply Rosendin standards for wire sizing, transformer feeders, and protection from published schedules.

  • Calculate illumination levels and layout fixtures with minimal supervision

  • 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 lighting and control design.

  • Calculate power loads, size feeders, and determine a distribution system's estimated demand load summary.

  • Lead coordination with all other trades,such as architectural, structural, mechanical, plumbing, fire protection, vertical transportation, kitchen equipment, and OFCI systems. Ability to direct and obtain information and requirements for electrical installation.

  • Create details as required to define installation for construction

  • Perform short circuit and thermal calculations as overseen by the Analytics group.

  • Apply the requirements of the National Electrical Code and Local jurisdictions for work, including ug distribution, gndg, over current protection, emergency & standby systems,

  • Attend project design team meetings. Interface with various team members, particularly the client, architect, and mechanical contractor/engineer.

  • Work closely with the Rosendin Operations Project Manager and Engineering Team Lead to coordinate the design criteria, budget, & schedule.

  • Back-check of own work as well as the work of other designers under their supervision for accuracy and completeness before passing on to others.

  • Comprehensive field work and surveying skills.

  • Independently layout Electrical Room, including clearances.

  • The duties and responsibilities describe this position's general nature and scope of work. This is a partial listing, and other responsibilities will be assigned based on the position's role within the business unit.

WHAT YOU BRING TO US:
  • Some college or technical training in engineering or related discipline

  • Minimum 5 years of experience as a Designer

  • Ability to obtain certification in energy, lighting, sustainability, commissioning, signal, grounding, etc.

  • Can be a combination of education, training, and relevant experience

COMPETENCIES:
  • Teamwork

  • Productivity

  • Strategic thinking

WHAT YOU'LL NEED TO BE SUCCESSFUL:
  • Advanced knowledge of NFPA and local building codes

  • Proficient in Microsoft Office (Teams, Chat, Outlook, Word, Excel, etc.) and Illuminance software

  • Manage multiple tasks and projects, changing priorities as necessary according to the supervisors' direction

  • Ability to calculate illumination levels and provide layouts based on the results of the calculations and to complete energy compliance docs for inclusion on drawings

  • Effective fieldwork and surveying skills

  • Ability to provide input on design hours for projects and activities.

  • Ability to provide direction to other designers on a project.

  • Knowledge of load summary and power calculations is required.

  • Ability to perform LEED calculations with minimum supervision.

  • Develop a complete set of design documents with minimal supervision.

  • Provide design modeling training to designers and engineers.

  • Fluency in 3D modeling and REVIT with a passing score on the Design/BIM assessment

  • Work under time pressure and adapt to changing requirements positively

  • Effective oral and written communication skills

  • Self-motivated, proactive, and an effective team player

  • Interact effectively and professionally with all levels of employees, both management and staff alike, vendors, clients and others.

TRAVEL:
  • Up to 20% (Does not include local field visits)

WORKING CONDITIONS:
  • General work environment - sitting for long periods, standing, walking, typing, carrying, pushing, bending. Work is conducted primarily indoors with varying environmental conditions, such as fluorescent lighting and air conditioning

  • Noise level is usually low to medium

  • Occasional lifting of up to 40 lbs.

  • We fully comply with the ADA and applicable state law, including considering reasonable accommodation measures that may enable qualified disabled applicants and employees to perform essential functions.

YOU Matter - Our Benefits
  • ESOP - Employee Stock Ownership

  • 401 K

  • Annual bonus program based upon performance, profitability, and achievement

  • 17 PTO days per year plus 10 paid holidays

  • Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance

  • Term Life, AD&D Insurance, and Voluntary Life Insurance

  • Disability Income Protection Insurance

  • Pre-tax Flexible Spending Plans (Health and Dependent Care)

  • Charitable Giving Match with our Rosendin Foundation

Our success is rooted in our people. We all come together around long-term vision and a sense of shared ownership. As a group, we do whatever it takes to ensure the success of our business...and your career.

Rosendin Electric is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.Employment decisions are considered regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status.


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