1

Lighting Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Lighting Engineer

Dearborn, MI ยท On-site

$65K - $166K/yr

The Ford Exterior Lighting Engineer role spans a variety of engineering fields including mechanical, electrical, software, and optics. This position involves responsibilities including definition of ...

Lighting Engineer

Dearborn, MI ยท Hybrid

$65K - $166K/yr

The Ford Exterior Lighting Engineer role spans a variety of engineering fields including mechanical, electrical, software, and optics. This position involves responsibilities including definition of ...

The Integrated Lighting Systems Engineer develops integrated lighting solutions for exterior automotive systems, with a primary focus on accent lighting, illuminated exterior features, and new ...

The Integrated Lighting Systems Engineer develops integrated lighting solutions for exterior automotive systems, with a primary focus on accent lighting, illuminated exterior features, and new ...

At least 2 years of experience in statistical analysis, dimensional management and engineering ... respect to exterior lighting domain Experience in Troubleshooting, Analytical and Client ...

Provide technical guidance to product designers and engineers on integrating lighting solutions into product designs. * Research and recommend appropriate lighting technologies, components, and ...

Possess / demonstrate the engineering knowledge and understanding to design, analyze, and engineer electrical systems for the installation, interconnection, and control of lighting systems, sizing of ...

Possess / demonstrate the engineering knowledge and understanding to design, analyze, and engineer electrical systems for the installation, interconnection, and control of lighting systems, sizing of ...

Designer - Lighting

Dearborn, MI ยท On-site

$86K - $166K/yr

Working on Advanced & Production lighting projects, the successful candidate will have to develop ... Collaborate with Engineering, Suppliers and other partners to progress the design development.

next page

Showing results 1-20

Lighting Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$20

$33

$51

How much do lighting engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for lighting engineer in Michigan is $33.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.66 and $35.34 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lighting engineer?

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 does a lighting engineer 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lighting engineer?

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 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.

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.

How much does a lighting engineer earn?

Lighting engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior or specialized lighting engineers can earn higher salaries, especially when working on large projects or in high-demand markets.

What are popular job titles related to Lighting Engineer jobs in Michigan?

For Lighting Engineer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Lighting Engineer jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Lighting Engineer jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Lighting Engineer jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Lighting Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Lighting Engineer jobs in MI?

For Lighting Engineer jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Lighting Engineer job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 89% In-person, 9% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,653 per year, or $33.5 per hour.

Lighting Engineer

Dearborn, MI โ€ข On-site

Ford Motor Company
Civil Engineering Constructionย โ€ขย 51 - 200 employees

$65K - $166K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Job description


We made history and now we work to transform the future - for our customers, our communities and our families. You'll see your work on the road every day, helping people move freely and pursue their dreams. At Ford, you can build more than vehicles. Come build what matters.
In this position...
The Ford Exterior Lighting Engineer role spans a variety of engineering fields including mechanical, electrical, software, and optics. This position involves responsibilities including definition of requirements, product design, tooling, validation testing, and launching in an assembly plant during the development of Exterior Lighting products throughout a vehicle's lifecycle. This role requires an engineer to lead and drive a cross functional team that includes lighting suppliers, optics, software, studio, purchasing, manufacturing, and quality functions.
Our ideal candidate desires to build their career as an engineer within exterior lighting. This candidate must demonstrate clear communication and project management skills and is a passionate, hard-working person who enjoys taking on challenges and following through with robust solutions.
Responsibilities
  • Systems Engineering for Exterior Lighting
  • Generate and execute technical solutions for Exterior Lighting components to support new vehicle programs
  • Manage and review system-level CAD content utilizing CATIA and 3DEXPERIENCE (3DX)
  • Lead live digital design reviews and resolve packaging, clearance, and interface issues within the system context
  • Position geometry and develop high-level preliminary CAD proposals or study parts
  • Perform complex engineering evaluation analysis
  • Work cross-functionally to implement cost savings, product improvements, and to support prototype and production build activities
  • Balance attributes such as cost, weight, complexity, and timing
  • Production release of Exterior Lighting systems, subsystems, components, and features
  • Core requirement and technology development
  • Communicate information to and from internal and external organizations
  • Lead team meetings (suppliers, designers, engineers, manufacturing, supplier quality, etc.)
  • Travel as required (including international)

Qualifications
Required Skills
  • Bachelor of Science Degree in Engineering discipline
  • 2+ years of related automotive and/or lighting applications experience (inclusive of professional, co-op, and internship positions).

Preferred Skills
  • Bachelor of Science Degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Optical, or Software Engineering
  • Master's Degree or other Advanced Degree
  • Familiarity with the engineering design of exterior lighting components
  • Proficiency with CAD software (CATIA and 3DEXPERIENCE (3DX)) to lead digital design reviews, perform packaging/clearance studies, position geometry, and develop high-level preliminary CAD proposals
  • Familiarity with Design For Six Sigma process
  • Experience with DFMEA (Design Failure Mode and Effect Analysis), GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing), and ISO standards
  • Knowledge of plastic materials, plastic injection molding, optics, basic electrical/electronic circuitry, software, lamp manufacturing processes, tooling, fixture design and product validation
  • Knowledge of global lighting regulations

You may not check every box, or your experience may look a little different from what we've outlined, but if you think you can bring value to Ford Motor Company, we encourage you to apply!
As an established global company, we offer the benefit of choice. You can choose what your Ford future will look like: will your story span the globe, or keep you close to home? Will your career be a deep dive into what you love, or a series of new teams and new skills? Will you be a leader, a changemaker, a technical expert, a culture builder...or all of the above? No matter what you choose, we offer a work life that works for you, including:
โ€ข Immediate medical, dental, vision and prescription drug coverage
โ€ข Flexible family care days, paid parental leave, new parent ramp-up programs, subsidized back-up child care and more
โ€ข Family building benefits including adoption and surrogacy expense reimbursement, fertility treatments, and more
โ€ข Vehicle discount program for employees and family members and management leases
โ€ข Tuition assistance
โ€ข Established and active employee resource groups
โ€ข Paid time off for individual and team community service
โ€ข A generous schedule of paid holidays, including the week between Christmas and New Year's Day
โ€ข Paid time off and the option to purchase additional vacation time.
This position is a salary grade 5 through salary grade 8. Potential salaries can range from $65,100-$166,200.
Final determination of salary grade will be based on candidate's skills and experience, and base salary will be set within the applicable range according to job scope, responsibility and competitive market value.
For more information on salary and benefits, click here: https://fordcareers.co/GSR
Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
Candidates for positions with Ford Motor Company must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status or protected veteran status. In the United States, if you need a reasonable accommodation for the online application process due to a disability, please call 1-888-336-0660.
This position is hybrid with a requirement to be onsite four or more days per week. #LI-Hybrid
#VehicleHardwareEngineering #LI-KH2

Ford logo

About Ford

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Ford Motor Company, we believe freedom of movement drives human progress. With our incredible plans for the future of mobility, we have a wide variety of opportunities for you to accelerate your career and help us define tomorrow's transportation.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Doral, FL, US

Year founded

1982