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