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Lighting Programmer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Using applicable codes and standards, design and engineer lighting and power distribution systems, low voltage systems (fire alarm systems, telecommunications, data networks, lighting control systems ...

Electrical Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Using applicable codes and standards, design and engineer lighting and power distribution systems, low voltage systems (fire alarm systems, telecommunications, data networks, lighting control systems ...

Electrical Project Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$98K - $128K/yr

Electrical Team Highlights • IMEG's electrical engineers design power distribution, lighting, and specialty electrical systems for buildings and infrastructure • The team's work ranges from ...

Electrical Team Highlights IMEG's electrical engineers design power distribution, lighting, and specialty electrical systems for buildings and infrastructure The team's work ranges from medium ...

Senior Electrical Engineer

Skokie, IL · On-site

$125K - $135K/yr

Visual Comfort & Co. is the premier resource for decorative and architectural lighting, ceiling ... This position reports directly to Director Engineering (Electrical) within the Engineering ...

Electrical Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$100K - $160K/yr

Project Engineer - Electrical Location: Chicago, IL Salary Range: $100,000 - $160,000 annually ... The position involves the design of power, lighting, and fire alarm systems , coordination with ...

Electrical Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$100K - $160K/yr

Project Engineer - Electrical Location: Chicago, IL Salary Range: $100,000 - $160,000 annually ... The position involves the design of power, lighting, and fire alarm systems , coordination with ...

Senior Electrical Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$100K - $144K/yr

Power, Lighting and low voltage systems design experience. * Experience and interest in sustainable ... engineering, interiors, planning, and building optimization for new builds, renovations, and ...

Electrical Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$100K - $160K/yr

Project Engineer - Electrical Location: Chicago, IL Salary Range: $100,000 - $160,000 annually ... The position involves the design of power, lighting, and fire alarm systems , coordination with ...

Senior Project Engineer I

Lisle, IL · On-site

$97K - $127K/yr

The Senior Project Engineer I will also lead and support a multi-discipline team through the development of designs for electrical power distribution systems, transportation systems, roadway lighting ...

Showing results 41-60

Lighting Programmer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

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$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.

(P.E.) Buildings Electrical Engineer

Primera Engineers

Chicago, IL

$100K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Description

Continue to grow in your electrical engineering career with challenging work in a wide range of projects in the built environment. Connect with great people, learn and grow, and have some fun doing it.  

WHO WE ARE

We're a people-first organization. We value knowledge and learning. We believe in the power of connection and collaboration and we seek to build relationships that mean something. We employ some of the best and brightest in the industry and we work hard to maintain a culture that our people can be proud of. 

WORKING FOR PRIMERA

Our Buildings division is a talented team of experts working together to deliver buildings and systems that perform better. We provide full-service engineering and design services for both new and existing facilities. Ever focused on providing a first-class client experience, our 30-plus-year history includes projects for school, university, healthcare, government, aviation, laboratory, campus, and municipal facilities. 

WHO YOU ARE

  • You studied electrical engineering. A bachelor's in electrical or architectural engineering is a must. Having your EIT is required. 
  • You know electrical engineering. With at least 3+ years of experience under your belt, you're equipped with knowledge of electrical standards and key design aspects for lighting, power, and fire alarm systems. You understand electrical circuiting for power and lighting as well as key telecommunications, mechanical, and architectural considerations as they relate to electrical equipment. You also understand industry standard and loss prevention practices. 
  • You are a people person. While the ability to work independently is important, you are skilled at interfacing and collaborating effectively with other team members at all levels. Your strong organization, communication, and presentation skills will contribute to your success. 
  • You are proficient with business and engineering applications. Microsoft Office, AutoCAD, and Revit skills are a must; knowledge of electrical-specific calculation software tools is a plus. 


WHAT YOU'LL DO

  • You'll exercise your electrical engineering skills. You'll prepare: electrical load short circuit and voltage drop calculations; electrical power, lighting, and fire alarm drawings; and punchlists under supervision. Likewise, you'll complete electrical schedules, size feeders, branch circuits, and panels. You'll also assist with the review of electrical shop drawings and offer your opinion of probably cost for Division 26 equipment and systems. 
  • You'll ensure adherence to client and industry standards. The details make a difference. You'll apply our clients' standards, guidelines, specifications, practices and procedures or appropriate industry standards in preparing design drawings.  
  • You'll spend some time in the field. You'll perform surveys and field observations of electrical systems and equipment.  
  • You'll connect with people. You'll regularly communicate and coordinate project activities with internal team members and interface with clients with the goal of building lasting relationships. Similarly, you'll interface directly with vendors to evaluate and select equipment, with the help of your supervisor as needed. 
  • You'll enjoy what you do. You'll work with great people, learn, grow and have a good time doing it. 

SOME OF WHAT YOU'LL ENJOY

  •  An excellent benefits package including 401K match and employee stock ownership, gym and transit subsidies, paid volunteer time off, parental leave, continuing education reimbursement and much more
  • Flexible work scheduling in a fast-growing company
  • A fun, inclusive, and collaborative environment
  • Colleagues that appreciate differences in people, perspectives, cultures, and ideas
  • The fruits of our employee-led committees focused on offering engaging social, wellness and community service activities all year long

For more information about Primera please visit our website: PrimeraEng.com

Equal Employment Opportunity

Primera is committed to the principles of equal employment opportunity. Primera's practices and employment decisions, including those regarding recruitment, hiring, assignment, promotion and compensation, shall not be based on any person's race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, age, ancestry, disability, physical handicap, marital status, sexual orientation, veteran status, citizenship status or other protected group as defined by law.