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Lighting Programmer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

As a leading engineer and manufacturer of technologically advanced lighting solutions, we are renowned for inspiring unique, cutting-edge designs. Our extensive product portfolio combines superior ...

As a leading engineer and manufacturer of technologically advanced lighting solutions, we are renowned for inspiring unique, cutting-edge designs. Our extensive product portfolio combines superior ...

Electrical Engineer

Palatine, IL · On-site

$80K - $120K/hr

Electrical Engineer Client: Architecture and Engineering Firm Duration: Full-Time (Permanent ... Lighting & lighting controls * Fire alarm systems * Support sustainability and energy-efficiency ...

Senior Electrical Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$110K - $144K/yr

Licensed Professional Engineer. * 7+ years' experience as an Electrical Engineer designing power and lighting building systems on complex projects. * Experience with consulting engineering or A/E ...

Senior Electrical Engineer

Chicago, IL

$110K - $144K/yr

Licensed Professional Engineer. * 7+ years' experience as an Electrical Engineer designing power and lighting building systems on complex projects. * Experience with consulting engineering or A/E ...

Mechanical Engineer

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$100K - $100K/yr

The Mechanical Engineer is responsible for the design, development, testing, and continuous improvement of LED lighting products and related mechanical systems. This role works closely with ...

Design low voltage power distribution systems, street lighting, traffic signals, area lighting ... Professional Engineer (PE) certification * Experience with Roadway and Highway Lighting

New

Sound Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$29/hr

The AV Engineer is responsible for managing and executing all audio components for live performances and events at The Bassment, with limited support in lighting and projection as needed. This role ...

Electrical Engineer

Lisle, IL · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

A Day in the Life of an Electrical Engineer at Hanson Here's a snapshot of what you would do in ... Site lighting design * Electrical medium voltage distribution * Generator systems * Emergency ...

Showing results 21-40

Lighting Programmer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$40

$70

How much do lighting programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for lighting programmer in Chicago, IL is $40.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.54 and $53.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a lighting programmer do?

A Lighting Programmer is responsible for programming and operating lighting control systems for live events, theater productions, concerts, and broadcasts. They work closely with Lighting Designers to translate creative visions into executable lighting cues using specialized software and consoles. Their role involves troubleshooting technical issues, ensuring smooth transitions, and sometimes live-operating the lighting during performances. Strong technical knowledge of lighting equipment and software, such as GrandMA or ETC Eos, is essential.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lighting programmer?

A successful Lighting Programmer requires a solid background in lighting design, programming logic, and often a relevant degree or technical training in entertainment technology. Proficiency with industry-standard lighting consoles (such as MA Lighting grandMA or ETC Eos), DMX protocols, and show control systems is expected, along with certifications in these systems being advantageous. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills are vital, as Lighting Programmers frequently collaborate with designers, directors, and stage crews under tight deadlines. Mastery of these areas ensures seamless and visually impactful productions, efficient troubleshooting, and effective collaboration in high-pressure environments.

What are the typical responsibilities of a lighting programmer during a live production?

As a Lighting Programmer, you are responsible for setting up, programming, and operating complex lighting cues that align with the vision of the lighting designer and the overall production. This role often involves working closely with lighting designers, directors, and stage management to translate creative concepts into technical execution, attending rehearsals, and making on-the-fly adjustments during performances. You may also be tasked with troubleshooting equipment, maintaining show files, and supporting other crew members as needed. The role requires both technical precision and creative interpretation to ensure every cue enhances the audience’s experience. Expect a collaborative and sometimes fast-paced work environment, particularly during tech rehearsals and live events.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lighting Programmer jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Lighting Programmer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Infographic showing various Lighting Programmer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,780 per year, or $40.8 per hour.

Electrical Lighting Designer 2 - Energy & Industrial Group

Sargent & Lundy

Chicago, IL • Hybrid

$58K - $87K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Sargent & Lundy rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

121st of 446 rated engineering


Job description

This position allows for a hybrid work schedule with a mix of work spent in office and working remote from home. 

  • This position will offer you the opportunity to work and lead others in a project team environment in the design, modification, and/or upgrade of new and existing power plant lighting systems.
  • Under the direction of the Electrical Project Lead, you will work with multi-disciplined engineering and design project teams in the development of the following:
    • Lighting single line diagrams
    • Lighting Load Sheets
    • Lighting Calculations
    • Lighting Circuiting
    • Lighting fixture location drawings
    • Lighting bill of materials
    • Lighting general notes and detail drawings
  • In addition, you will also have the opportunity to perform the following:
    • Conduct field walkdowns and data gathering at client facilities
    • Supervise and mentor less experienced employees
    • Review drawings produced by other personnel and vendors, and incorporate them into project drawings
    • Create life cycle cost analysis
    • Update in house design standards

We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.

Essential skills and experience:

  • Associates degree
  • 6+ years of electrical systems experience dedicated to lighting design development/engineering
  • Exceptional AutoCAD and/or MicroStation design experience on power plants or large facility projects
  • Extensive experience with the following:
    • Producing various types of lighting deliverables for installers and electricians
    • Assisting engineers with initial design requirements
    • Conceptualizing plans and details to accurately convey lighting requirements
    • Developing low-voltage circuit designs, including single line diagrams and electrical distribution panel layouts
    • Using commercial lighting calculation programs, such as Visual
  • Must keep up with the latest advancements in lighting technology,  lighting controls, energy codes, and electrical systems
  • Must be detail oriented, flexible, courteous, organized, and have good communication skills
  • Willing to travel to client facilities to perform walkdowns and attend meetings

Valued but not required experience:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Architecture or non-ABET Accredited Engineering Technology degrees

At Sargent & Lundy, we care about the health and well-being of our employees. Our commitment extends beyond the workplace, offering comprehensive healthcare plans and generous paid time off to support our team members in every aspect of their lives. We understand the importance of work-life balance, which is why we are proud to provide competitive, award-winning benefits. Our dedication to employee satisfaction has earned us the prestigious Top Workplaces Culture Excellence Award for compensation and benefits in 2022, 2023, and 2024.

Health & WellnessFinancial BenefitsWork-Life Balance
  • Health Plans: Medical, Dental, Vision
  • Life & Accident Insurance
  • Disability Coverage
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Back-Up Daycare
  • FSA & HSA
  • 401(k)
  • Pre-Tax Commuter Account
  • Merit Scholarship Program
  • Employee Discount Program
  • Corporate Charitable Giving Program
  • Tuition Assistance
  • First Professional Licensure Bonus
  • Employee Referral Bonus
  • Paid Annual Personal/Sick Time (PST)
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Paid Bereavement Leave
  • Flexible Work Arrangements

$58,930.00 - $87,460.00
Sargent & Lundy discloses compensation ranges that comply with all local and state regulations. The total compensation package for eligible positions will include a base salary or an hourly rate and a comprehensive benefits package, reflecting our commitment to rewarding performance and supporting the overall well-being of our employees. Individuals may also be eligible to participate in our yearly discretionary bonus.

The Energy & Industrial Group (EIG) specializes in delivering advanced engineering solutions across various sectors, including power generation, environmental compliance, oil & gas, and industrial projects, from new plant design to plant betterment and upgrade services for operating facilities. We have designed nearly 900 conventional power plants, yielding over 100,000 megawatts (MW) of generation capacity. Our expertise includes numerous recent and ongoing combined cycle projects that leverage the latest advanced machinery, including combustion turbines, steam turbines, and heat recovery steam generators from all leading suppliers. EIG is recognized for its commitment to decarbonization through innovative technologies in renewable energy, carbon capture, and hydrogen power. We excel in detailed engineering services for photovoltaic (PV) solar projects and energy storage integration, and lead the industry in carbon capture technologies, managing projects from conceptual studies, pilot demonstrations and through commercial scale implementation for utilities and industrial plants.


Sargent & Lundy is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any protected status as defined by applicable law.


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About Sargent & Lundy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Sargent & Lundy is one of the most experienced full-service architect-engineering firms in the world. Founded in 1891, the firm is a global leader in power and energy with expertise in grid modernization, renewable energy, energy storage, nuclear power, and fossil fuels. Sargent & Lundy delivers comprehensive project services--from consulting, design and implementation to construction management, commissioning and operations/maintenance--with an emphasis on quality and safety. The firm serves public and private sector clients in the power and energy, gas distribution, industrial, and government sectors.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1891

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