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Senior Lighting Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Clark Nexsen

Lighting Designer

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

We are seeking a Lighting Designer to join our electrical team and will work under the direction of a senior engineer/designer. This individual will support lighting design for a variety of building ...

Clark Nexsen

Lighting Designer

Charlotte, NC · On-site

We are seeking a Lighting Designer to join our electrical team and will work under the direction of a senior engineer/designer. This individual will support lighting design for a variety of building ...

Clark Nexsen

Lighting Designer

Charlotte, NC · On-site

We are seeking a Lighting Designer to join our electrical team and will work under the direction of a senior engineer/designer. This individual will support lighting design for a variety of building ...

Ghafari Associates LLC

Lighting Designer

Dearborn, MI · On-site

General Summary The Lighting Designer, with some supervision from the Director of Electrical Engineering or senior staff, provides design, analysis and engineering for lighting, lighting control ...

Ghafari Associates LLC

Lighting Designer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

General Summary The Lighting Designer, with some supervision from the Director of Electrical Engineering or senior staff, provides design, analysis and engineering for lighting, lighting control ...

Clark Nexsen

Lighting Designer

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

We are seeking a Lighting Designer to join our electrical team and will work under the direction of a senior engineer/designer. This individual will support lighting design for a variety of building ...

Ghafari Associates LLC

Lighting Designer

Chicago, IL

$70K - $85K/yr

General Summary The Lighting Designer, with some supervision from the Director of Electrical Engineering or senior staff, provides design, analysis and engineering for lighting, lighting control ...

Ford Motor Company

Designer - Lighting

Dearborn, MI

$86K - $166K/yr

Ford Motor Company is looking for a highly creative/strategic Senior Lighting Designer for our design studios in Dearborn.Working on Advanced & Production lighting projects, the successful candidate ...

Ford Motor Company

Designer - Lighting

Dearborn, MI · On-site

$86K - $166K/yr

Ford Motor Company is looking for a highly creative/strategic Senior Lighting Designer for our design studios in Dearborn. Working on Advanced & Production lighting projects, the successful candidate ...

HDR

Lighting Designer 2

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

Work under the guidance of more-senior staff, as well as working independently, to support design ... Certified Lighting Designer (CLD) through IALD * Master's degree in Architectural Lighting or ...

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Senior Lighting Designer information

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$59K

$105.9K

$131K

How much do senior lighting designer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior lighting designer in the United States is $105,882.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $102,000.00 and $109,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a senior lighting designer do?

A Senior Lighting Designer is responsible for creating and implementing lighting solutions for architectural, theatrical, or event projects. They work closely with clients, architects, and engineers to develop lighting concepts that enhance aesthetics, functionality, and energy efficiency. Their role often involves designing lighting plans, selecting fixtures, managing teams, and ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations. Senior Lighting Designers also oversee project budgets, timelines, and coordinate with contractors during installation. Their expertise ensures that lighting enhances both the visual appeal and usability of spaces.

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

To thrive as a Senior Lighting Designer, you need expertise in lighting design principles, architectural understanding, and a degree in lighting, architecture, or a related field, often complemented by several years of professional experience. Mastery of technical tools like AutoCAD, Revit, Dialux, and lighting control systems, as well as relevant certifications such as LC (Lighting Certified), is typically required. Strong project management, creative problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills that distinguish top performers in this role. These abilities ensure innovative, functional, and visually compelling lighting solutions that meet client needs and project specifications.

How does a senior lighting designer typically collaborate with architects and other design professionals on large-scale projects?

A Senior Lighting Designer works closely with architects, interior designers, and engineers to ensure that lighting solutions complement the overall vision and functionality of a space. This collaboration often involves participating in design meetings, reviewing architectural plans, and providing technical guidance on lighting layouts, fixture selection, and energy efficiency. Effective communication and coordination are essential, as the lighting designer must balance aesthetic considerations with practical constraints like budgets, regulations, and installation timelines. These professionals also frequently lead project teams and mentor junior designers, supporting both creative and technical project goals.

What is the difference between Senior Lighting Designer vs Lighting Designer?

AspectSenior Lighting DesignerLighting Designer
CredentialsTypically requires 5+ years experience, relevant certifications, and advanced knowledgeEntry to mid-level experience, foundational certifications, and basic knowledge
Work EnvironmentLead projects, collaborate with clients and teams, oversee design developmentAssist in design tasks, support senior staff, and execute lighting plans
Industry UsageUsed across architecture, theater, film, and event industries for complex projectsCommonly employed in smaller projects or as part of a team in various industries

The main difference between a Senior Lighting Designer and a Lighting Designer lies in experience, responsibilities, and project scope. Senior Lighting Designers typically lead projects and have more advanced credentials, while Lighting Designers support project execution at an entry or mid-level. Both roles are essential in the lighting industry, but the senior position involves greater leadership and expertise.

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What are the most commonly searched types of Lighting Designer jobs?

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Senior Lighting Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Lighting Designer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,882 per year, or $50.9 per hour.

Lighting Designer

Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson, Inc.

Charlotte, NC • Hybrid

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson rating

9.8

Company rating: 9.8 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 450 rated engineering

Job description

Join Clark Nexsen, a JMT Company, and become part of a dynamic, collaborative team dedicated to delivering exceptional service to our clients—while making a meaningful impact on our communities and the world through the projects we help bring to life.

We are seeking a Lighting Designer to join our electrical team and will work under the direction of a senior engineer/designer. This individual will support lighting design for a variety of building types, including commercial, institutional, government, and mixed-use projects. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, creative, and eager to grow their technical and design skills in a collaborative team environment.

Immigration sponsorship or support (e.g. H1B, F-1 CPT/OPT/STEM OPT) is not available for this position, except for qualified candidates eligible for the TN visa classification.

General responsibilities include but are not limited to the following

  • Assist in the development of lighting design concepts under the direction of senior staff
  • Perform lighting calculations using software such as AGi32, ElumTools, or LightStanza
  • Create lighting layouts and details in Revit and/or AutoCAD
  • Support the preparation of specifications, schedules, and lighting control strategies
  • Coordinate with architects, interior designers, and engineers to integrate lighting into the overall design
  • Conduct research on lighting products and technologies
  • Assist with the preparation of presentations, renderings, and documentation

Required Skills
Required Experience
  • 0-5 years experience with IES standards, energy codes, and NEC
  • Knowledge of daylighting strategies, including LEED/WELL design concepts
  • Working knowledge of Revit and lighting control systems
  • Membership or interest in IES, IALD, or similar professional organizations

Working Conditions

At JMT, we prioritize a healthy work/life balance and offer a flexible hybrid working schedule. The selected candidate is expected to work in a JMT office location at least three days per week or as needed to perform assigned duties. While most of our work is desk-based, there may be times when standing, walking, bending and lifting of minimal weight are required. Our office environment is comfortable, has adequate lighting and temperature, and is free from noise, dust, and other hazards. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law.

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