Lighting Designer Jobs
Lighting Designer jobs are open across entertainment, architecture, theater, and commercial construction, with specializations in theatrical lighting, architectural lighting design, and live event production, at every level from junior designer to senior and principal. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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About CM KLING + ASSOCIATES
Since 1980, CM KLING + ASSOCIATES (CMK) has delivered architectural lighting design and lighting controls design services, collaborating closely with design visionaries, architects, interior designers and owners. We have completed more than 4,000 projects worldwide, across industries from healthcare to government.
Our practice is grounded in high-end and luxury hospitality design, where lighting is integral to the architectural narrative. We apply that same standard to projects of every scope and scale, with an emphasis on integrated, sustainable lighting solutions.
Our work sits at the intersection of people, technology and the environment. Our collaborative design team is expanding, and we are seeking a senior designer to help lead it forward.
The role
The Senior Lighting Designer leads the design and documentation of architectural lighting and lighting controls across all phases of a project, from schematic design through construction administration. You will develop lighting concepts, direct the production of drawings and specifications, and coordinate lighting with architectural and interior design. You will work in collaboration with our Design Managers and Studio Directors, lead portions of the design effort, and engage directly with clients and project teams.
This position suits a designer with 3 to 6 years of experience who is ready for greater technical and project ownership. At CMK, senior is defined by depth of experience and quality of work, not by age.
This is a full-time, in-person position at our Alexandria, VA office. Travel to project sites, locally and globally, is part of the role.
What you'll do
Design leadership
- Develop lighting design concepts and strategies in collaboration with Studio Directors and Design Managers, and lead design development through every phase, from schematic design to construction administration.
- Integrate lighting and lighting controls solutions with architectural and interior design plans, finishes and spatial layouts.
- Lead concept presentations that communicate design intent to clients and project teams.
- Engage directly with clients, consultants and multidisciplinary teams, and represent CMK in client communication.
Documentation and specification
- Oversee the preparation of lighting design drawings, specifications and system layouts, ensuring each package is complete, coordinated and issued on schedule.
- Develop and manage luminaire schedules to meet project requirements and industry standards.
- Coordinate fixture selections and compile cut sheet packages with project stakeholders.
Construction administration and field work
- Review submittals, and respond to RFIs and contractor questions, to support design intent through installation.
- Conduct field work and quality-control reviews, and guide site visits that produce punch lists.
- Participate in on-site fixture focusing, aiming and lighting controls programming.
- Plan and run lighting mockups as needed.
Technical analysis and BIM
- Perform advanced photometric calculations and simulations to optimize lighting performance, visual quality and energy efficiency.
- Create and manage Revit families to streamline workflows and maintain consistency across projects.
- Provide guidance on lighting controls strategies and system layouts.
- Help maintain design standards and best practices across projects.
Project management
- Manage your own time, tasks and schedules, and lead select projects, in collaboration with the Design Manager and Studio Director.
- Manage multiple projects concurrently, and communicate overlapping tasks and deadlines to your manager and team.
- Track project fees, scope and budgets, and review cost estimates against client budgets.
- Assist with project scheduling, and manage up and down within the team.
- Anticipate and resolve technical and coordination issues, and escalate to the team when appropriate.
Mentorship, business development and the CMK community
- Mentor junior designers, interns and beginning staff, and support designers with their tasks and responsibilities.
- Support business development, including proposals, fee negotiation and client relationships.
- Participate in recruiting and onboarding.
- Serve as a CMK ambassador, advocating the firm's core values.
- Participate in industry organizations, attend networking events, and engage with the design community.
- Pursue continuing education opportunities.
What you bring
Experience and education
- 3 to 6 years of professional experience in architectural lighting design or a related field, with a demonstrated record of successful projects.
- A portfolio of architectural lighting design work, submitted with your application.
- Bachelor's degree in Lighting Design, Architecture, Interior Design, Engineering or a related discipline (or equivalent).
- Knowledge of lighting fundamentals, fixture technologies and industry standards.
- Working knowledge of lighting controls systems and strategies, including integration with architectural and interior design concepts.
- Practical knowledge of field work, product knowledge, construction administration and project budgets.
Technical proficiency
- Expert proficiency in Revit and AutoCAD (at least 3 years in each), including the development of complex lighting models and documentation.
- Proficiency in lighting calculation software such as AGi32, Visual or DIALux.
- Proficiency in Adobe InDesign and Photoshop for presentations and visualization.
- Strong command of the Microsoft Office suite for project management, deliverables and communication.
Professional competencies
- Problem solving: you take initiative to prevent or resolve issues, and you know when to seek input from your team and when to work through a problem independently.
- Collaboration and leadership: you work effectively with junior designers and senior leadership, and you delegate when appropriate.
- Interpersonal skills: you collaborate with diverse groups and understand their perspectives.
- Planning and organization: you define the tasks required, work to schedule and keep the team informed throughout. You are detail-oriented, with a rigorous eye for quality and precision.
- Communication: you convey design concepts and technical solutions clearly to clients, stakeholders and project teams, in visual, written and verbal form.
- Initiative: you are a motivated self-starter who is proactive in a fast-paced, demanding environment.
- Firm culture: you advocate CMK's core values and promote the firm.
Logistics
- Must be able to work in the United States, on-site at our Alexandria, VA office.
- CMK does not offer visa sponsorship.
- Available to travel, or commute to job locations, locally and globally.
Nice to have
- LEED or WELL certification.
- Proficiency with project management software, specifically Trello and Monograph.
What we offer
- Pay: $55,000 to $75,000 per year, plus performance-based bonus pay.
- Time off: unlimited paid time off.
- Health: health, dental and vision insurance.
- Retirement: 401(k).
- Growth: professional development assistance.
- A waiting period may apply to benefits.
Job details
- Job type: full-time, Monday to Friday, in person at our Alexandria, VA office.
- Education: Bachelor's degree (required).
- Experience: Revit, 3 years (required). AutoCAD, 3 years (required).
- Learn more about our work at www.cmkling.com.
Equal opportunity employer
CM KLING + ASSOCIATES is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities throughout the hiring process; please let us know if you need one.
Pay: $55,000.00 - $75,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
About CM KLING + ASSOCIATES
Since 1980, CM KLING + ASSOCIATES (CMK) has delivered architectural lighting design and lighting controls design services, collaborating closely with design visionaries, architects, interior designers and owners. We have completed more than 4,000 projects worldwide, across industries from healthcare to government.
Our practice is grounded in high-end and luxury hospitality design, where lighting is integral to the architectural narrative. We apply that same standard to projects of every scope and scale, with an emphasis on integrated, sustainable lighting solutions.
Our work sits at the intersection of people, technology and the environment. Our collaborative design team is expanding, and we are seeking a senior designer to help lead it forward.
The role
The Senior Lighting Designer leads the design and documentation of architectural lighting and lighting controls across all phases of a project, from schematic design through construction administration. You will develop lighting concepts, direct the production of drawings and specifications, and coordinate lighting with architectural and interior design. You will work in collaboration with our Design Managers and Studio Directors, lead portions of the design effort, and engage directly with clients and project teams.
This position suits a designer with 3 to 6 years of experience who is ready for greater technical and project ownership. At CMK, senior is defined by depth of experience and quality of work, not by age.
This is a full-time, in-person position at our Alexandria, VA office. Travel to project sites, locally and globally, is part of the role.
What you'll do
Design leadership
- Develop lighting design concepts and strategies in collaboration with Studio Directors and Design Managers, and lead design development through every phase, from schematic design to construction administration.
- Integrate lighting and lighting controls solutions with architectural and interior design plans, finishes and spatial layouts.
- Lead concept presentations that communicate design intent to clients and project teams.
- Engage directly with clients, consultants and multidisciplinary teams, and represent CMK in client communication.
Documentation and specification
- Oversee the preparation of lighting design drawings, specifications and system layouts, ensuring each package is complete, coordinated and issued on schedule.
- Develop and manage luminaire schedules to meet project requirements and industry standards.
- Coordinate fixture selections and compile cut sheet packages with project stakeholders.
Construction administration and field work
- Review submittals, and respond to RFIs and contractor questions, to support design intent through installation.
- Conduct field work and quality-control reviews, and guide site visits that produce punch lists.
- Participate in on-site fixture focusing, aiming and lighting controls programming.
- Plan and run lighting mockups as needed.
Technical analysis and BIM
- Perform advanced photometric calculations and simulations to optimize lighting performance, visual quality and energy efficiency.
- Create and manage Revit families to streamline workflows and maintain consistency across projects.
- Provide guidance on lighting controls strategies and system layouts.
- Help maintain design standards and best practices across projects.
Project management
- Manage your own time, tasks and schedules, and lead select projects, in collaboration with the Design Manager and Studio Director.
- Manage multiple projects concurrently, and communicate overlapping tasks and deadlines to your manager and team.
- Track project fees, scope and budgets, and review cost estimates against client budgets.
- Assist with project scheduling, and manage up and down within the team.
- Anticipate and resolve technical and coordination issues, and escalate to the team when appropriate.
Mentorship, business development and the CMK community
- Mentor junior designers, interns and beginning staff, and support designers with their tasks and responsibilities.
- Support business development, including proposals, fee negotiation and client relationships.
- Participate in recruiting and onboarding.
- Serve as a CMK ambassador, advocating the firm's core values.
- Participate in industry organizations, attend networking events, and engage with the design community.
- Pursue continuing education opportunities.
What you bring
Experience and education
- 3 to 6 years of professional experience in architectural lighting design or a related field, with a demonstrated record of successful projects.
- A portfolio of architectural lighting design work, submitted with your application.
- Bachelor's degree in Lighting Design, Architecture, Interior Design, Engineering or a related discipline (or equivalent).
- Knowledge of lighting fundamentals, fixture technologies and industry standards.
- Working knowledge of lighting controls systems and strategies, including integration with architectural and interior design concepts.
- Practical knowledge of field work, product knowledge, construction administration and project budgets.
Technical proficiency
- Expert proficiency in Revit and AutoCAD (at least 3 years in each), including the development of complex lighting models and documentation.
- Proficiency in lighting calculation software such as AGi32, Visual or DIALux.
- Proficiency in Adobe InDesign and Photoshop for presentations and visualization.
- Strong command of the Microsoft Office suite for project management, deliverables and communication.
Professional competencies
- Problem solving: you take initiative to prevent or resolve issues, and you know when to seek input from your team and when to work through a problem independently.
- Collaboration and leadership: you work effectively with junior designers and senior leadership, and you delegate when appropriate.
- Interpersonal skills: you collaborate with diverse groups and understand their perspectives.
- Planning and organization: you define the tasks required, work to schedule and keep the team informed throughout. You are detail-oriented, with a rigorous eye for quality and precision.
- Communication: you convey design concepts and technical solutions clearly to clients, stakeholders and project teams, in visual, written and verbal form.
- Initiative: you are a motivated self-starter who is proactive in a fast-paced, demanding environment.
- Firm culture: you advocate CMK's core values and promote the firm.
Logistics
- Must be able to work in the United States, on-site at our Alexandria, VA office.
- CMK does not offer visa sponsorship.
- Available to travel, or commute to job locations, locally and globally.
Nice to have
- LEED or WELL certification.
- Proficiency with project management software, specifically Trello and Monograph.
What we offer
- Pay: $55,000 to $75,000 per year, plus performance-based bonus pay.
- Time off: unlimited paid time off.
- Health: health, dental and vision insurance.
- Retirement: 401(k).
- Growth: professional development assistance.
- A waiting period may apply to benefits.
Job details
- Job type: full-time, Monday to Friday, in person at our Alexandria, VA office.
- Education: Bachelor's degree (required).
- Experience: Revit, 3 years (required). AutoCAD, 3 years (required).
- Learn more about our work at www.cmkling.com.
Equal opportunity employer
CM KLING + ASSOCIATES is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities throughout the hiring process; please let us know if you need one.
Pay: $55,000.00 - $75,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
See All 16 Lighting Designer Jobs
Find roles that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Lighting Designer JobsLighting Designer Job Market
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Consulting & Professional Services
What Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in lighting designer jobs.
- Proficiency in Vectorworks Spotlight or AutoCAD for drafting light plots
- Hands-on experience programming lighting consoles such as ETC Eos or MA Lighting
- Bachelor's degree in theatrical design, architecture, or a related field
- Knowledge of electrical systems, fixture types, and DMX control protocols
- Experience reading and producing technical drawings and documentation packages
- ETCP Entertainment Electrician or Rigger certification preferred for live event roles
Tips for Your Lighting Designer Job Search
Tailor your portfolio to the sector
Theatrical, architectural, and live event employers each want to see project types relevant to their work. Curate separate portfolio sections for each so hiring managers see only the work that matches their context, not a generic reel.
List your software by name
Employers filter resumes for tools like Vectorworks Spotlight, Vision, Capture, AutoCAD, and ETC Eos. Spell each one out in your skills section exactly as it appears in job postings so your resume clears automated screening.
Apply early to roles that fit
Migrate Mate lists lighting designer openings from across the United States in one place, so you can find roles that match and apply directly to each listing.
Target roles by project type not title
Job titles vary widely: lighting designer, lighting consultant, theatrical lighting designer, and EV lighting engineer can all describe distinct roles. Search by deliverable and project type to avoid missing openings that match your skills but carry an unexpected title.
Prepare a documentation walkthrough for interviews
Many lighting designer interviews include a live review of your paperwork, light plots, or section drawings. Practice talking through your design decisions layer by layer, explaining fixture choices, circuit assignments, and how you handled last-minute changes on set.
Negotiate project credits before you accept
Portfolio rights and production credits are negotiable at the offer stage. Ask explicitly which projects you can list publicly and whether your name appears in program credits, because many employers do not offer this automatically and reversing it after signing is difficult.
Lighting Designer Jobs: Frequently Asked Questions
Which companies are hiring the most lighting designers?
The most active employers for lighting designers right now are Bard Rao & Athanas Consulting Engineers, Kugler Ning Lighting Design, and Tesla, and the most openings are in Texas, Florida, and New York, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. Demand is concentrated in markets with active entertainment production, large-scale construction, and touring live events.
How many lighting designer jobs are remote?
About 50% of lighting designer openings are fully remote or hybrid as of November 2026, with most remote work concentrated in pre-production planning, drafting, and documentation roles rather than on-site installation or programming. Positions requiring console operation, site surveys, or live event calls are almost always in-person.
How do you become a lighting designer?
Most lighting designers start with a degree in theatrical design, architecture, or electrical engineering, then build hands-on experience through internships, assistant roles, or community theater work. Learning industry-standard software like Vectorworks Spotlight, gaining console programming time on real productions, and building a documented portfolio of original light plots are the practical steps that move candidates into full designer roles.
Can you get hired as a lighting designer with little experience?
Yes, entry-level lighting designer roles and assistant positions regularly go to candidates with strong portfolios built through academic productions, community theater, or volunteer event work rather than paid credits. Demonstrating drafting fluency, console familiarity, and the ability to document a design from concept to paper tech matters more to most employers than a long list of professional productions.
What does the lighting designer interview process look like?
Most lighting designer interviews include a portfolio review where you walk through light plots, fixture schedules, and design rationale for past projects. Employers in theatrical and live event sectors often ask how you handled technical problems under tight timelines, while architectural and commercial firms focus on your documentation process, client communication, and coordination with electrical contractors.
Where can I find and apply to lighting designer jobs?
You can find and apply to lighting designer jobs on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings from across the United States. Find roles that match your specialization and experience level, then apply directly to each listing from the same place.
See All 16 Lighting Designer Jobs
Find roles that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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