Lighting Programmer Jobs in Minneapolis, MN (NOW HIRING)

MISSION

PD Instore is a future-forward creator of brand solutions that enlightens, inspires, and transforms the consumer's experience.

ABOUT PD

Founded in 1938, PD is a world-renowned design-to-build partner that crafts custom, future-forward brand solutions for some of the largest brands in retail.

Summary

At PD Instore, we create engaging retail environments that help brands connect with shoppers and drive results. As a Lighting Engineer, you will lead the technical development, specification, and integration of lighting systems across custom retail displays, fixtures, shop-in-shop environments, and branded experiences.

This role combines engineering expertise with creative problem-solving to deliver lighting solutions that enhance product presentation, reinforce brand identity, and support manufacturing efficiency. You will collaborate with engineering, creative, sourcing, production, and client teams to ensure lighting systems are functional, cost-effective, scalable, and visually impactful.

If you are passionate about LED technology, product development, and creating innovative retail experiences, we'd love to hear from you.

Essential Duties/Responsibilities

• Develop and specify LED lighting solutions for custom retail displays, fixtures, shop-in-shop environments, and branded experiences.
• Select and evaluate lighting components, including LED strips, modules, panels, edge-lighting systems, drivers, power supplies, transformers, wiring, and controls.
• Determine color temperature, CRI, lumen output, beam characteristics, and other lighting requirements based on project objectives and brand standards.
• Create lighting specifications, schematics, wiring diagrams, and installation documentation that balance performance, manufacturability, cost, reliability, and sustainability.
• Design lighting systems that integrate effectively into retail fixtures and display structures while supporting production efficiency.
• Support prototype development, mockups, testing, validation, troubleshooting, and continuous product improvement.
• Review photometric data and manufacturer specifications to confirm components meet project, quality, and performance requirements.
• Troubleshoot issues related to illumination, power distribution, thermal management, controls, installation, and overall system performance.
• Collaborate with sourcing, production, suppliers, and manufacturing partners to evaluate technologies, resolve technical challenges, and improve product quality.
• Provide technical guidance during fabrication, assembly, installation, and the development of standards and best practices for lighting integration.
• Partner with modelers/drafters, account managers, project managers, clients, and cross-functional teams throughout the project lifecycle.
• Present lighting recommendations, support value engineering efforts, and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced design-build environment.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Fosters a culture that values family, innovation, collaboration, and empowerment.
• Follows all safety and workplace policies.

Competencies and Skills

• Strong technical knowledge of LED strips, modules, panels, light engines, drivers, power supplies, transformers, and control systems.
• Understanding of color temperature, CRI, lumen output, light distribution, low-voltage electrical systems, wiring practices, thermal management, and product reliability.
• Experience reading and creating electrical schematics and technical documentation.
• Familiarity with lighting controls, dimming systems, sensors, and smart lighting technologies.
• Proficiency with CAD software such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Inventor, or similar design tools.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and collaboration abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple deadlines while maintaining high standards of quality and accuracy.
• Ability to demonstrate and apply our workplace values.
• Flexibility to travel between multiple PD locations.
• Demonstrated commitment to valuing diversity and contributing to an inclusive working environment.

Education/Certification

• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Product Design, Industrial Technology, or a related field; equivalent experience will be considered.
• Lighting Certified (LC) credential or equivalent industry certification is a plus.

Experience

• 3-5+ years of experience in lighting engineering, LED systems, electrical product development, retail fixtures, displays, signage, or a related industry.
• Experience in retail display, point-of-purchase (POP), point-of-sale (POS), signage, architectural products, or custom fixture manufacturing preferred.
• Knowledge of UL standards, electrical safety requirements, and industry best practices preferred.
• Experience working with overseas suppliers and manufacturing partners preferred.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

Walking, sitting, bending, twisting, reaching, pushing, pulling, and lifting may be required throughout the workday.

Benefits and perks we offer to full-time, regular employees

• Health, Dental and Vision Insurance
• 4% 401k Match with 5% Employee Contribution
• Paid Time Off
• Parental Leave
• 8 Paid Holidays
• Flex Time
• STD, LTD and Group Life Insurance
• FSA and HSA Options
• Voluntary
  • Life Insurance
  • Critical Illness Insurance
  • Accident Insurance
  • Legal and Identity Theft Plans
• Employee Assistance Program
• Employee Referral Program
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Career Advancement
• Professional Development Opportunities
• Employee Recognition
• English as a Second Language Education
• Online Training Opportunities