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Senior Lighting Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AE Design

Lighting Designer

Denver, CO · On-site

$87K - $99K/yr

Support project goals, deadlines, and deliverables alongside the Senior Lighting Designer * Perform other duties as assigned What You Bring to the Table * 2-5 years of professional experience in an ...

AE Design

Lighting Designer

Denver, CO · On-site

$87K - $99K/yr

Support project goals, deadlines, and deliverables alongside the Senior Lighting Designer * Perform other duties as assigned What You Bring to the Table * 2-5 years of professional experience in an ...

Eagle Brook Church

Lighting Designer

Centerville, MN · On-site +1

$25 - $28/hr

Reports to the Sr. Lighting Designer ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS * Participates as a part of Stage Design team and supports the implementation of stage design elements * Supports lighting repairs and ...

Eagle Brook Church

Lighting Designer

Centerville, MN · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Reports to the Sr. Lighting Designer ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS * Participates as a part of Stage Design team and supports the implementation of stage design elements * Supports lighting repairs and ...

George Sexton Associates, LLC

Be Seen First

Junior Lighting Designer - Architect

Washington, DC · On-site

$55K - $70K/yr

Working with senior designers and project managers to provide excellent lighting design services to clients Other duties may include client communication and traveling for meetings and site visits to ...

George Sexton Associates, LLC

Be Seen First

Junior Lighting Designer - Architect

Washington, DC · On-site

$55K - $70K/yr

Working with senior designers and project managers to provide excellent lighting design services to clients Other duties may include client communication and traveling for meetings and site visits to ...

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

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 ...

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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 Jul 23, 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.

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Senior Lighting Designer, and why are they important?

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.

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.
More about Senior Lighting Designer jobs
What cities are hiring for Senior Lighting Designer jobs? Cities with the most Senior Lighting Designer job openings:
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Senior Lighting Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Lighting Designer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $105,882 per year, or $50.9 per hour.
Lighting Designer

Lighting Designer

AE Design

Denver, CO • On-site

$87K - $99K/yr

Full-time

Vision, Retirement

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

At AE Design, we believe great design starts with great people. Founded in 2004 on a foundation of friendship and shared vision, our firm has grown into a dynamic team dedicated to delivering exceptional design solutions. Our culture is built on collaboration, curiosity, and a commitment to excellence. We foster an environment where knowledge is shared, ideas are valued, and every team member is empowered to contribute to our success. Through proactive communication and meticulous attention to detail, we create seamless experiences for our clients-anticipating needs, solving challenges, and delivering thoughtful, responsible designs.
As an integral part of the Denver AEC community, we take pride in supporting industry organizations and local nonprofits that align with our values. Sustainability, innovation, and partnership are at the heart of everything we do, ensuring that our work not only meets today's needs but also contributes to a better future. At AE Design, we don't just complete projects-we build lasting relationships, provide high-touch service, and make our clients' lives easier. Our passion for design and dedication to excellence drive us forward, shaping the spaces and communities we serve.
General Role Description
At AE Design, our Lighting Designers create thoughtful, innovative lighting solutions that enhance the built environment and support the overall project vision. This role works collaboratively with internal design teams, clients, and consultants to develop lighting concepts from programming through construction documentation for projects of varying size and complexity.
The ideal candidate is creative, detail-oriented, and proactive, with a passion for design collaboration and technical execution.
How You'll Spend Your Day
  • Assist in the design and development of lighting solutions across a variety of project types and complexities
  • Collaborate with clients, consultants, architects, and internal design teams to develop conceptual through detailed lighting designs
  • Perform photometric calculations and analysis to verify design intent and performance
  • Support the preparation and coordination of construction documents and specifications
  • Review drawings and construction documents for alignment with design intent
  • Participate in client and project meetings throughout the project lifecycle
  • Coordinate with multidisciplinary teams to ensure integrated project solutions
  • Support project goals, deadlines, and deliverables alongside the Senior Lighting Designer
  • Perform other duties as assigned

What You Bring to the Table
  • 2-5 years of professional experience in an architectural, lighting design, or MEP environment with a focus on lighting design
  • Undergraduate degree in Architectural Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Lighting Design, or a related discipline
  • Experience with AutoCAD, Revit, Bluebeam, COMcheck, and photometric software
  • Strong communication and collaboration skills
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment
  • Passion for design, problem-solving, and continuous learning

What You'll Enjoy When You Join Us
  • Competitive salary and benefit plan (401k, HSA and more)
  • An environment which supports continued education, professional development and personal growth with opportunities to learn outside of the office and through our mentorship program
  • An open office, enthusiastic and collaborative coworkers, and out of office events ranging from happy hours to ski trips
  • A dedication to a true work-life balance
  • The chance to work on a variety of projects, and learn about low-voltage, audio/visual, special systems, commissioning and the other services we provide
  • The opportunity to get out of the office for site visits, client visits, seminars and networking opportunities
  • A condensed 4.5 day work week - we work full time, but we love our half day Fridays!
  • A great bonus incentive program
  • Opportunity to help grow with a highly reputable company who does beautiful work

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