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Lighting Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Musco Lighting

Application Developer I

Oskaloosa, IA · On-site

Musco Lighting is a company specializing in sports and large-area lighting and technology. They are seeking an Application Developer I to join their Information Technology team, responsible for ...

Musco Lighting

Application Developer II

Oskaloosa, IA · On-site

Musco Lighting is seeking an Application Developer II in their Oskaloosa Office. The role involves developing, testing, and maintaining software tools to support business objectives, as well as ...

Saige Partners

Electrical Engineer

Iowa City, IA · On-site +1

Design and coordinate electrical and technology systems, including power distribution, lighting ... S in Electrical Engineering or a related field Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in Iowa, or ...

DLR Group

Senior Electrical Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$104K - $136K/yr

Proven experience as an Electrical Engineer designing power and lighting building systems on complex projects. * Experience with BIM, specifically Revit MEP. Preferred Qualifications: * LEED ...

ISG

Electrical Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$75K - $140K/yr

ISG is hiring an engineer for our Electrical Engineering team to bolster our growing power, lighting, low voltage, and control system services that support our Food + Industrial, Energy, Education ...

University of Iowa

Electrician

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$24.50 - $33.50/hr

Designs, installs and troubleshoots electrical control systems including lighting, programmable controllers, and heating and cooling system programmable controllers. * Designs, programs, installs and ...

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All JobsLighting Engineer JobsLighting Engineer Jobs in Iowa

Lighting Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$23

$37

$57

How much do lighting engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for lighting engineer in Iowa is $37.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.60 and $39.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lighting Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lighting Engineer, you need a solid understanding of electrical engineering principles, lighting design, and relevant safety codes, often backed by a degree in engineering or related fields. Familiarity with lighting simulation software (such as DIALux or AGi32), CAD tools, and knowledge of industry standards are typically required. Attention to detail, creativity, and strong communication skills help in collaborating with architects, designers, and clients to achieve optimal lighting solutions. These competencies are crucial to ensure safe, efficient, and aesthetically pleasing lighting systems that meet project specifications and regulatory requirements.

What is the difference between Lighting Engineer vs Lighting Designer?

AspectLighting EngineerLighting Designer
CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications in lighting or electrical engineeringDesign-focused education, architecture or interior design background
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, technical planning, electrical systemsArchitectural projects, creative design, client presentations
Industry UsageConstruction, infrastructure, technical lighting projectsArchitectural, theatrical, interior design projects

Lighting Engineers focus on technical aspects, electrical systems, and ensuring compliance, while Lighting Designers emphasize aesthetic, creative concepts, and user experience. Both roles collaborate but serve different primary functions within lighting projects.

What Do Lighting Engineers Do?

A lighting engineer or technician works on the lights and their accompanying equipment for live or recorded entertainment. As a lighting engineer, your duties include inspection and testing of these electrical fixtures, as well as the development of a set-up and setting that works best for the show. You work collaboratively with stage and camera techs to create both functional and visually appealing lighting. Experience in the specific type of show you are lighting is beneficial, as lights for a theater performance are different than a rock concert.

What are Lighting Engineers?

Lighting Engineers are professionals who design, implement, and manage lighting systems for a variety of spaces, such as theaters, film sets, architectural projects, and public events. They ensure that lighting enhances visibility, safety, and aesthetics while also meeting technical and energy efficiency requirements. Lighting Engineers work closely with architects, designers, and other engineers to create effective lighting solutions that meet the needs of each project.

What are some common challenges faced by Lighting Engineers when working on large-scale projects?

Lighting Engineers on large-scale projects often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple departments, adapting designs to budget constraints, and ensuring compliance with safety and energy regulations. Balancing creative lighting concepts with practical installation limitations can also be demanding. Effective communication with architects, project managers, and electricians is essential to keep projects on track and achieve the desired results. These challenges require strong problem-solving skills and flexibility to adapt to evolving project needs.
More about Lighting Engineer jobs
What are popular job titles related to Lighting Engineer jobs in Iowa? For Lighting Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Lighting Engineer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Lighting Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Lighting Engineer jobs in IA? For Lighting Engineer jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Lighting Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lighting Engineer job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,826 per year, or $37.4 per hour.
Entertainment Engineer

Entertainment Engineer

Musco Sports Lighting

Oskaloosa, IA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Entertainment Engineer
The Musco Entertainment Engineering Team has an opening for a Entertainment Engineer in Oskaloosa, IA. If your experience aligns with the qualifications outlined below, we look forward to hearing from you!
Essential Criteria:
  • 2 or 4 year degree in Computer Science, Programming, Lighting Design, Theater Lighting, or related field. Practical experience of 3-5 years a plus.
  • General proficiency in computer skills
  • Hands-on experience in lighting design, lighting programming, and operation, with experience as a lighting technician, lighting programmer, console operator or similar role.
  • Familiarity with Audio Visual Lighting (AVL) networking
  • Knowledge of DMX, sACN, Artnet and other lighting protocols
  • Experience with lighting consoles and ETC hardware/software, such as GrandMA, Hog, Eos, and Mosaic Designer would be a plus.
  • Experience with advanced lighting and design tools such as, VectorWorks, WYSIWYG, Capture, Unreal Engine or equivalent Pre-Visualization (Pre-Vis) software.
  • Familiarity with web programming, networking, and scripting is an advantage and enhances system customization capabilities is a plus
  • Strong organizational skills, with a keen attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, capable of conveying complex technical concepts to diverse audiences.
  • Proven ability to collaborate effectively with internal teams and external stakeholders, ensuring project objectives are met and customer satisfaction is achieved.
  • Demonstrated ability to work well under pressure in dynamic environments, maintaining composure and professionalism on jobsites.
  • Strong interpersonal skills, with a capacity to build positive relationships and communicate effectively in a collaborative setting.

Roles and Responsibilities:
  • Engage directly with clients to understand their creative and technical vision. Translate these requirements into tailored lighting solutions.
  • Oversee all lighting programming and engineering aspects of entertainment lighting systems, including the development and implementation of sophisticated control interfaces, lighting effects, and user interfaces.
  • Provide lighting tech style technical support for the servicing and maintenance of theatrical lighting fixtures, lasers, and other specialized entertainment technologies. Ensure all equipment is calibrated, tested, and functioning at peak performance levels for live events. Troubleshoot complex technical issues and resolve discrepancies to maintain the integrity and functionality of all installed systems.
  • Utilize 3D modeling and pre-visualization software to create precise lighting simulations. Develop pre-vis renderings that offer clients a clear understanding of the final light show design and functionality before deployment.
  • Work with the sales team to produce high-quality rendered content and light show demonstrations.
  • Adhere to team standards for documentation, maintaining up-to-date records that capture the full scope of the project's technical details, configurations, and modifications.
  • Undertake additional technical or project-based responsibilities as assigned, contributing to the continuous improvement and innovation of lighting solutions and the overall success of the project.
  • Other duties as assigned

Who is Musco:
For more than 50 years, Musco has specialized in sports and large-area lighting and technology, providing innovative solutions for projects in more than 135 countries. Headquartered in Oskaloosa, Iowa, Musco has more than 2,100 team members worldwide. Musco was named an Iowa Top Workplace by The Des Moines Register (2023-2025) and a USA TODAY Top Workplace (2025-2026). Learn more at www.musco.com.
Team Culture and Partnerships:
At Musco, we offer meaningful work in a team-first culture with continuous learning and professional development. We value work-life balance, providing flexibility for community involvement, family activities, and personal time.
As supporters of recreational organizations, we help ensure safer and more enjoyable playing experiences worldwide. If giving back resonates with you, learn more about our partnerships.
At Musco, we make it happen and want you to be a part of it.
Stay connected with us!
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