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Lighting Designer Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

ETC has a great opportunity to join our Entertainment Systems department as an Entertainment Lighting Systems Designer located at our global headquarters in Middleton, WI. ETC is proud to be 100 ...

Entertainment Lighting Systems Designer

Middleton, WI · On-site

$102K - $140K/yr

ETC has a great opportunity to join our Entertainment Systems department as an Entertainment Lighting Systems Designer located at our global headquarters in Middleton, WI. ETC is proud to be 100 ...

Visual Comfort & Co. is the premier resource for decorative and architectural lighting, ceiling fans, system controls and automated shading solutions from the most influential designers in the world.

Revit Designer

Madison, WI · Hybrid

$27 - $40/hr

Contribute to the design of protective relaying, distributed metering, lighting controls, high ... Ensure designs comply with applicable design codes, specification requirements, and life safety ...

Ascendium is hiring a Multimedia Designer to join our dynamic, award-winning creative team. In this ... Experience operating digital video cameras, lighting equipment, and audio equipment in studio or on ...

New

Ascendium is hiring a Multimedia Designer to join our dynamic, award-winning creative team. In this ... Experience operating digital video cameras, lighting equipment, and audio equipment in studio or on ...

New

Designer - Electrical

Green Bay, WI · On-site

$20 - $40/hr

Designer - Electrical Department: Electrical + Technology Employment Type: Full Time Location ... Design power distribution, lighting, fire alarm, and low-voltage systems * Perform load ...

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Showing results 1-20

Lighting Designer information

See Wisconsin salary details

$49.5K

$73.4K

$94.9K

How much do lighting designer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for lighting designer in Wisconsin is $73,447.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,600.00 and $80,700.00 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.
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What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Lighting Designer jobs? Cities in Wisconsin with the most Lighting Designer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Lighting Designer jobs in WI? For Lighting Designer jobs in WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Lighting Designer job openings in Wisconsin as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,447 per year, or $35.3 per hour.

Lighting Supervisor (Head Lighting)

Confluence Council Inc

Eau Claire, WI • On-site

$17 - $23.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Description:

SCOPE OF REPSONSIBILITIES

The primary responsibility of the Lighting Supervisor is to oversee the production lighting department and implement lighting needs for events presented by and/or at the Pablo Center. This position helps lead the Production Team to execute production details of multiple events, with many occurring simultaneously or in close sequence in Pablo Center’s two theatres and alternate event spaces. The Lighting Supervisor will creatively solve production problems while working within the guidelines of labor and rental agreements, budgets, existing inventory, available schedule; and in keeping with the policies, procedures, and standards of Pablo Center. The Lighting Supervisor will manage and maintain the lighting inventories for Pablo Center as well as assist in establishing standards and procedures for lighting systems throughout the Center.


The Lighting Supervisor will ensure UWEC campus events held at Pablo Center are adequately lit, such as Department of Music concerts and Chancellor’s Office events. In addition, the Lighting Supervisor will provide support for community events held at Pablo Center in roles ranging from technician, advisor, or mentor.


This is a full-time, exempt position. As such, the Lighting Supervisor must be able to work flexible shifts including nights, weekends, and holidays as determined by the Pablo Center calendar.


This staff member is responsible for upholding the Pablo Center Mission through dedicated job performance and service excellence, with a commitment to holistic student development, and will exhibit behaviors that properly represent Pablo Center’s mission, vision and values including taking substantive measures to create and maintain an inclusive environment free of bias, leading and communicating in a way that champions diversity, and creating inclusive awareness for greater understanding of diversity.


PRINCIPAL FUNCTIONS & DUTIES

? Serve as House Electrician/House Lighting Designer/House Lighting Director for events presented by Pablo Center – including national touring productions – and for constituent productions as needed.

? Advise affiliate theatre companies on Pablo Center lighting standards and procedures.

? Maintain lighting equipment, track lighting inventory, and keep accurate light plots and paperwork.

? Conduct lighting calls as needed to advance, strike and restore light plots as well as perform maintenance.

? Assist in training crew on safe, professional standards for lighting installation and care.

? Assist with advancing shows and providing visiting Designers and Technicians with accurate information.

? Serve as House LD and/or Board Op for certain events presented by Pablo Center as needed.

? Coordinate crew and work assignments with other Pablo Center departments.

? Participate in training for position, safety, first aid, and emergency procedures.

? Follow the employee handbook and code of conduct.

? Know safety protocols for lighting work and alert staff when safety is an issue.

? Wear PPE in accordance with current building, county health, and OSHA guidelines.

? Work collaboratively for extended periods of time in close proximity (i.e., distances under five feet) with Artists, Patrons, Students, Community Members, and Pablo Center Staff.

? Other duties as assigned or as experience and opportunity allow.

Requirements:

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

? At least 18 years of age.

? Bachelor’s degree in a relevant area of study from a nationally accredited institution or comparable professional experience.

? Previously demonstrated strong leadership, mentoring and training experience in performing arts production.

? Production experience in venues of varying sizes.

? Minimum of 2 – 4 years of professional experience in theatrical or concert lighting. ? Knowledge and understanding of principles of lighting design and technology, and electrical safety.

? Fluent in conventional, LED and moving light fixtures, including hang, focus, circuiting, and patching.

? Able to read a light plot and lighting paperwork and effectively communicate data to crew.

? Strong, effective, and positive interpersonal and communication skills.

? Fixture repair and maintenance skills

? Positive completion of a criminal background check

? Valid driver’s license.


PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

? B.A. or B.F.A. in Theatre or comparable professional experience; with training in multiple departments of technical theatre and production design including – but not limited to – lighting, rigging, projections, audio, stagecraft, and stage management.

? Previous professional experience in theatre and live production as a Production Electrician/L1.

? Able to program within the EOS family of consoles. Pablo Center uses the ETC Gio@5 in both main spaces

? Experience with automated lighting programming and DMX protocols.

? Computer proficiency as it relates to current lighting and projections technology, preferably in both Mac and Windows environments.

? Working knowledge of Vectorworks Spotlight and Lightwright 6.

? Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite including Word, Excel, PowerPoint

? Experience in a training role and managing people of varying backgrounds and skill sets in professional and pre-professional environments.

? Able to effectively lead a group, work within a group, and work independently.

? Organized, attentive, accountable, and creative.

? Effective at prioritising, troubleshooting and problem-solving.

? Strong interest in providing a superior experience to artists and audiences.

? Established commitment to maintaining a safe work environment.


PHYSICAL DEMANDS

? Must be willing to work on ladders and at heights exceeding 25’ in bucket, boom, or scissor lifts.

? Must be able to work independently in elevated, exposed workspaces such as front-of-house catwalk positions, lighting grids, and fly towers.

? Must be able to properly use fall-protection equipment.

? Must have manual dexterity to efficiently operate a keyboard, use hand tools, and grasp small objects.