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Lighting Designer Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Substation Designer

Portland, OR · On-site

$30 - $55/hr

We are seeking an in office Substation Designer to support the design and development of electric ... lighting, electrical schematics, AC and DC services, substation batteries, and related substation ...

New

Graphic Designer

Vancouver, WA · Hybrid

$28 - $30/hr

POSITION SUMMARY: The Graphic Designer is a key component to Audigy's design team, able to ... Frequently manipulate, retouch, color correct, adjust lighting, and create clipping paths for ...

Graphic Designer

Vancouver, WA · Hybrid

$28 - $30/hr

POSITION SUMMARY: The Graphic Designer is a key component to Audigy's design team, able to ... Frequently manipulate, retouch, color correct, adjust lighting, and create clipping paths for ...

Designer

Portland, OR · On-site

$17.25/hr

Floor & Decor Designers provide a seamless start to finish consultative design service that builds lasting relationships and brand loyalty with the customers we serve. At Floor & Decor Designers are ...

Floor & Decor Designers provide a seamless start to finish consultative design service that builds lasting relationships and brand loyalty with the customers we serve. At Floor & Decor Designers are ...

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Showing results 1-20

Lighting Designer information

See Portland, OR salary details

$52K

$77.2K

$99.7K

How much do lighting designer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for lighting designer in Portland, OR is $77,170.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,900.00 and $84,800.00 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 Portland, OR?

The most popular types of Lighting Designer jobs in Portland, OR are:

What are popular job titles related to Lighting Designer jobs in Portland, OR?

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

What job categories do people searching Lighting Designer jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Lighting Designer jobs in Portland, OR are:

What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Lighting Designer jobs?

Cities near Portland, OR with the most Lighting Designer job openings:

Infographic showing various Lighting Designer job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 70% In-person, 10% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,170 per year, or $37.1 per hour.

Experienced Lighting Designer, LUMA- Portland, Oregon at PAE CONSULTING ENGINEERS INC Portland, OR

Downtown Boulder Partnership

Portland, OR • On-site

$71.80 - $95.90/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Job Title

Experienced Lighting Designer, LUMA – Portland, Oregon (PAE CONSULTING ENGINEERS INC.)

Job Details
  • Level: Experienced
  • Job Location: Portland, OR
  • Position Type: Full Time
  • Job Category: Design
Who We Are

We are a firm that values and respects our staff, fosters an environment that encourages learning and growth, and is committed to the success of our clients. At LUMA, we treat others with dignity and respect. We take individual responsibility and pride in our work. We are responsible for the success of the company. We value and recognize contributions. We promote creativity and growth.

What You'll Do
  • Lead the design direction and execution of the lighting design under the direction of the EOR/DOR
  • Lead meetings with internal and external team members representing PAE under the LUMA brand
  • Develop skills to create project workplans, tasks and assignments for the team
  • Lead and support development and production of the lighting control design
  • Mentor junior staff in design, production and calculations
  • Perform lighting calculations, design communication graphics, REVIT production and mock‑ups
  • Write lighting product specifications, create luminaire schedule, and demonstrate an understanding of advanced product research approaches
  • Gain experience in technical detailing of lighting systems
  • Facilitate project design and construction phases
  • Support the project lighting cost control
  • Lead cross‑trade coordination of lighting and lighting control systems
  • Lead construction phase reviews of submittals and RFIs and attend site visits
  • Participate in lighting industry organizations and events to build supporting relationships and knowledge
  • Model accountability as an integral member of the design teams in which you are involved
  • Perform other duties as assigned
What You Bring
  • College Degree (or equivalent design related training) required, preferable in Architecture, Interior Design, Lighting Design or related field
  • 3–5 years practicing lighting design in the built environment space
  • Deep understanding and practice of integration of light with architecture and people
  • Consistent practice of professionalism
  • Time management and organization of multiple roles on projects
  • Proficiency in time management and organizing teams and tasks on multiple projects
  • Excellent graphic and oral communication of basic and advanced design concepts
  • Complex Building Information Modeling (REVIT) expertise
  • Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite (emphasis on Photoshop and InDesign), illumination calculation software (AGI), digital design modeling software (SketchUp, 3D Max, Rhino, or similar), and Bluebeam
  • Microsoft Office Suite
What We Offer
  • Hiring Base Salary Range: $71,800–$95,900 annual
    • This position is eligible for time and a half overtime pay

The base salary is one component of LUMA | PAE's competitive compensation package for employees. We take into consideration a variety of factors including but not limited to skills, abilities, experience, education, credentials, internal equity and geographic location in determining exact salary offered. At LUMA | PAE, roles are eligible for additional rewards, including salary increases and annual bonuses based on individual performance. The above range represents LUMA | PAE's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.

In addition, LUMA | PAE offers a comprehensive benefits package which includes the following: Performance Bonus, employer‑paid health insurance (medical, dental, vision), 401k account contribution, professional development reimbursements including state registration and professional association dues, commuter benefit, cell phone stipend, life insurance and disability benefits, employee assistance program, paid time off for sick leave, family leave, community service, holidays and vacation.

Pay Equity & Compensation

PAE is a JUST label certified company; we demonstrate JUST label requirements within pay equity. Pay scales should meet or exceed applicable legislated wage requirements and industry standards and compensate, on the same basis, all individuals performing the same or similar work and work of equal value. We are committed to the principle of pay equity – paying employees equitably for substantially similar work. To learn more about pay equity and our commitments to equitable business practices, you may view our JUST label certification. To find out more, visit our website.

Vision

Why are we in business at LUMA? To bring life and architecture together through light.

Mission

What do we do? We produce new solutions and fresh ideas that are the outgrowth of our collaborative process. How do we do it? We listen to our clients and deeply understand their goals. We hire and retain the best staff. We provide innovative design solutions that work.

Culture Statement

As team members, we are held accountable for putting our Culture Statement and Core Values at the forefront of our daily interactions with our community members, business partners, and each other.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

In order to provide equal employment and advancement opportunities to all individuals, employment decisions at PAE will be based on merit, qualifications and abilities. PAE does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, religion, gender (sex), national origin, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical characteristics historically associated with race, disability, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. PAE will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities unless doing so would result in an undue hardship. This policy governs all aspects of employment including: selection, job assignment, compensation, discipline, termination and access to benefits and training.

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