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Lighting Designer Jobs in Baltimore, MD (NOW HIRING)

Create and implement lighting designs that enhance worship services, events, and broadcasts using GrandMA3 consoles. Routing, Patching, and System Management (20%) * Oversee DMX routing, universe ...

Create and implement lighting designs that enhance worship services, events, and broadcasts using GrandMA3 consoles. Routing, Patching, and System Management (20%) * Oversee DMX routing, universe ...

Create and implement lighting designs that enhance worship services, events, and broadcasts using GrandMA3 consoles. Routing, Patching, and System Management (20%) * Oversee DMX routing, universe ...

Designer II is a mid-level designer responsible for creating marked drawings, model development ... Mark up branch circuit lighting and power plans and fill in panel board schedules with moderate

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Lighting Designer information

See Baltimore, MD salary details

$48.7K

$72.3K

$93.4K

How much do lighting designer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for lighting designer in Baltimore, MD is $72,291.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,600.00 and $79,500.00 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 the most commonly searched types of Lighting Designer jobs in Baltimore, MD?

The most popular types of Lighting Designer jobs in Baltimore, MD are:

What are popular job titles related to Lighting Designer jobs in Baltimore, MD?

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

What job categories do people searching Lighting Designer jobs in Baltimore, MD look for?

The top searched job categories for Lighting Designer jobs in Baltimore, MD are:

Infographic showing various Lighting Designer job openings in Baltimore, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 82% In-person, and 18% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $72,291 per year, or $34.8 per hour.

Lighting Director

Union Church

Glen Burnie, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

About Us:
At Union, we exist for one thing - to unite people with purpose by helping them know God, find freedom, discover purpose, and make a difference. We are Spirit-led, enjoyable, generous, purpose-driven, and excellent. That has been our goal for over 20 years and has guided us every single day. We are one church meeting in 8 different locations and while we're amazed by what God is doing, we aren't stopping here. What happens next will be beyond what we can imagine. Our vision has always been to impact lives by making church as accessible as possible to as many people as possible. That's why leading people isn't just an expectation; it's a necessity. It's a cornerstone of our culture. It's why we're always seeking leaders-leaders like you-to bring your skills to Union. We want to help you become the person God made you to be.
More about our story
More about our beliefs
More about Pastor Stephen & Pastor Zai Chandler
The Lighting Director is responsible for designing, programming, and executing all lighting elements across Union Church locations. This role ensures high-quality lighting for worship services, special events, and broadcasts, enhancing the overall worship experience while maintaining technical excellence. The Lighting Director also oversees volunteer training, lighting maintenance, and system integration across all campuses.
Key Responsibilities:
Lighting Design & Programming (50%)
  • Create and implement lighting designs that enhance worship services, events, and broadcasts using GrandMA3 consoles.

Routing, Patching, and System Management (20%)
  • Oversee DMX routing, universe assignments, and patching across multiple locations.

Team Leadership & Volunteer Training (20%)
  • Recruit, train, and mentor volunteer lighting operators.

Lighting Maintenance & Upgrades (10%)
  • Ensure lighting systems and equipment are maintained and upgraded as needed.

Principal Responsibilities
Mid-Week Responsibilities
  • Design and program lighting looks for upcoming weekend services and special events.
  • Oversee lighting maintenance and address any system malfunctions.
  • Train and develop volunteers and part-time staff in lighting operation.
  • Attend weekly production team meetings to align creative and technical needs.
  • Manage patching and routing for all lighting systems.

Weekend Responsibilities
  • Lead lighting execution for all worship services and events.
  • Operate or oversee GrandMA3 lighting programming during services.
  • Troubleshoot real-time lighting issues and ensure smooth service flow.
  • Provide leadership and support to lighting volunteers and operators.
  • This description is not all-inclusive; other duties may be assigned as necessary.

Key Performance Measurements
  • 100% operational readiness of all lighting systems before each weekend.
  • Volunteer training goal: At least 5 trained operators per campus by the end of the year.
  • Programming deadline: Ensure all lighting presets and cues are locked in 48 hours before service.
  • Quarterly lighting system audit to ensure reliability and recommend upgrades.
  • Annual maintenance and upgrade plan developed and presented to leadership.

Additional Expectations
  • Sunday-Thursday work schedule, with frequent weekends or evenings as needed
  • Occasional travel may be requested
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds (physical demands)
  • Ability to stand for extended periods (up to 30 minutes)

Must-Have's
  • Bachelor's degree in related field
  • 3-5 years of relevant work experience

Benefits & Compensation
Union Church offers a generous compensation package. The salary for this position is commensurate with experience. In addition to the total compensation package, Union Church staff receive medical, dental, and vision insurance, short- and long-term disability, life insurance, 403(b) retirement plan, paid time off (PTO), and paid holiday days.
Our Beliefs, Culture, and Commitment to Diversity
  • At Union Church, every staff member is a minister and is expected to engage in the church's ministry fully. We consider ministry readiness and an individual's capacity to represent Union Church's beliefs as a minister during the selection process for all staff positions. An essential function within every position held by a staff member Union Church is to uphold and represent the beliefs of Union Church. Learn more about what we believe at Union Church.
  • While we unite around our mission, we know unity doesn't mean uniformity. Our calling is too great, and our mission is too important not to be intentional about strengthening our team through diversity. We know that diverse perspectives in race, ethnicity, background, age, and gender are essential to reaching the world for Christ. To learn more about how we strengthen our team through diversity, visit our careers page.