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Lighting Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Legence

Lighting Designer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$72K - $88K/yr

As a Lighting Designer you will be supporting the design team and projects in all aspects and phases. You will work alongside the design team in preparing documentation to present lighting, testing ...

HLB Lighting Design

Lighting Designer

Culver City, CA · On-site

$76K - $81K/yr

Position is 70% designer / 30% project manager. Achieving Results - Project Responsibilities * Use ... Bachelor's degree or above in Lighting Design or Architectural Engineering or Architecture or ...

EwingCole

Lighting Designer I

Manhattan, NY · Hybrid

$72K - $95K/yr

The Lighting Designer I performs lighting design and documentation as the lead-role on smaller projects and under the support of a senior lighting designer on larger more complex projects. Individual ...

EwingCole

Lighting Designer I

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$72K - $95K/yr

The Lighting Designer I performs lighting design and documentation as the lead-role on smaller projects and under the support of a senior lighting designer on larger more complex projects. Individual ...

Ghafari Associates LLC

Lighting Designer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

The Lighting Designer will also provide the design and engineering to develop the construction documents for the installation, interconnection and control of lighting fixtures. Essential Job ...

Arup

Lighting Designer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

As lighting designers, we use the medium of light to shape and influence how people interact with the built environment and our team creates expressive, sustainable and award-winning concepts with ...

Ghafari Associates LLC

Lighting Designer

Dearborn, MI · On-site

The Lighting Designer will also provide the design and engineering to develop the construction documents for the installation, interconnection and control of lighting fixtures. Essential Job ...

Clark Nexsen

Lighting Designer

Charlotte, NC · On-site

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 ...

MGE LDC

Lighting Designer

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

The Lighting Designer is a trusted member of the project team, working under the direct supervision of the Assistant Lighting Manager to provide valuable design and project management support to the ...

MG Engineering

Lighting Designer

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

Job Type Full-time Description The Lighting Designer is a trusted member of the project team, working under the direct supervision of the Assistant Lighting Manager to provide valuable design and ...

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Lighting Designer information

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How much do lighting designer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for lighting designer in the United States is $72,767.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,000.00 and $80,000.00 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.

How do you become a lighting designer?

To become a lighting designer, individuals typically pursue a bachelor's degree in theater, architecture, interior design, or a related field. Gaining experience through internships, developing skills in lighting software like Vectorworks or Lightwright, and building a portfolio are important steps. Certification from professional organizations can also enhance job prospects.

What qualifications do I need to be a lighting designer?

A lighting designer typically needs a bachelor's degree in theater, architecture, interior design, or a related field. Relevant skills include knowledge of lighting technology, design software, and an understanding of electrical systems; professional experience or internships can also be valuable. Certifications in lighting design or electrical safety may enhance job prospects.

What does a light designer do?

A lighting designer plans, creates, and implements lighting schemes for performances, events, or architectural projects. They select and position lighting equipment, such as fixtures and controls, to achieve desired visual effects and ensure proper illumination. The role often requires knowledge of lighting technology, design principles, and collaboration with other production or construction teams.

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 are lighting designers paid?

Lighting designers typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Senior or specialized lighting designers working on large productions or commercial projects can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $100,000 annually. Many lighting designers also work freelance or on contract, which can affect their income levels.

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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Lighting Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lighting Designer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,767 per year, or $35 per hour.
Residential Lighting Designer

Residential Lighting Designer

HLB Lighting Design

Denver, CO • On-site

$72K - $77K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Description
Horton Lees Brogden Lighting Design (HLB) is an internationally recognized design firm focused on architectural lighting for both interior and exterior environments. We are inspired by the artistry of light and its impact on the natural and architectural environment. We infuse our core values of artistry, legacy, curiosity, balance, and integrity into every project.
In our niche within HLB, our residential team specializes in high-end residential lighting design. From a project's inception to the fine tuning at a project's completion, we oversee our designs from start to finish. With over 1,000 projects under our belt, we have an incredibly diverse portfolio with projects that have graced the cover of national and international publications. As IALD lighting designers, we are free to specify the best products from any manufacturer. Where some designers stamp out designs, we look at each new project as an opportunity to do something we've never done before. We are always pushing the envelope of design creativity, while ensuring that our designs are well balanced and tailored to the needs of each project.
In this position you will be working hand-in-hand with design teams, owners, and construction teams to create balanced, well-thought-out spaces. You will find yourself interacting with some of the most powerful people in the world.
Description
The High-End Residential Lighting Designer will support the work of 1 or more team members and lead and assist in the lighting design process. This position is in our Denver, Colorado office.
In this position you will be involved in all aspects of lighting design. This will include but is not limited to participation in meetings, design presentations to clients, CAD drafting, site visits, assembling cut sheet packages, fixture specifications, phone and email coordination with design and construction teams and aiming of adjustable lights. We are looking for someone with enough residential lighting design experience to understand all aspects of design and specification, but not so much experience that you cannot adapt to our standards, philosophy, and procedures. The ideal candidate will have good listening skills and should be able to take direction and run with it. We put a lot of effort into mentoring new designers. Only people who are passionate about lighting design and who are looking for a place to work for the long term should apply. Travel to Colorado mountain resort communities will be common while travel to out-of-state projects will vary depending upon the mix of our projects over time. Although some weeks are filled with conventional workdays, our work hours can best be described as asymmetric. There are many times where our work hours extend beyond daylight hours. This position will be fun, challenging, constantly evolving and very rewarding.
Requirements
Skill Set
  • MS Word, PowerPoint and Excel
  • Basic understanding of residential dimming control systems
  • Proficiency with AutoCAD is a must
  • AGI, Revit, Photoshop, iPad, InDesign, Manufacturers' Dimming System Software, etc. are a plus, but not required
  • Thoroughness, and understanding of how to put together complete specifications and design documents

Education
  • Undergraduate degree in lighting design related field
  • 5 - 10 years' experience in the professional world of residential lighting design

Compensation
$72,600 to $77,200
The final agreed upon compensation is based on cost of living, individual education, qualifications, and experience.
Benefit Clause: Includes but not limited to Medical, Dental & Vision plans, flexible spending account, 401(k) plans, life & AD&D insurance, short/long term disability plans, holidays, and paid time off.

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