Lighting Designer – Job Description
Overview
The Lighting Designer is responsible for designing, documenting, and coordinating lighting systems for commercial, institutional, and/or residential projects. This role collaborates with architects, engineers, and clients to develop creative, energy-efficient lighting solutions that meet aesthetic, functional, and code requirements.
Key Responsibilities
Lighting Design & Planning
- Develop lighting concepts, layouts, and specifications for projects such as commercial buildings, healthcare facilities, education, hospitality, and mixed-use developments
- Perform lighting calculations and analysis to ensure proper illumination levels and compliance with energy codes
- Select lighting fixtures, controls, and related equipment based on design intent, budget, and performance requirements
- Integrate daylighting strategies and sustainable design principles
Documentation & Technical Work
- Produce lighting plans, details, and schedules using AutoCAD and/or Revit
- Prepare photometric layouts and lighting calculations using software such as AGi32, Visual, or ElumTools
- Develop lighting specifications and cut sheets
- Ensure designs comply with IES, NEC, and local building codes
Coordination & Collaboration
- Coordinate lighting design with architects, electrical engineers, interior designers, and project teams
- Participate in project meetings and design reviews
- Respond to RFIs and support construction administration activities
- Review shop drawings and submittals for conformance with design intent
Client Interaction
- Present lighting concepts and design solutions to clients
- Modify designs based on client feedback, budget, and project requirements
Required Qualifications
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in Lighting Design, Architecture, Interior Design, Electrical Engineering, or related field preferred
Experience
- Typically 2–8+ years of lighting design experience (varies by level: junior, intermediate, senior)
Technical Skills
- Proficiency in AutoCAD and/or Revit
- Experience with lighting calculation software such as AGi32, Visual, or ElumTools
- Knowledge of lighting controls systems
- Familiarity with IES standards and energy codes (ASHRAE, IECC)
Preferred Qualifications
- LC (Lighting Certified) credential
- Experience working in architectural lighting design firms or MEP consulting firms
- Knowledge of sustainable design and LEED principles
- Experience with BIM workflows
Typical Project Types
- Commercial office buildings
- Healthcare facilities
- Educational institutions
- Hospitality and retail projects
- Mixed-use developments
Soft Skills
- Strong creative and technical problem-solving abilities
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills
- Attention to detail
- Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously