Associate Lighting Designer
by Matt Gorgolinski CEO & Principal Recruiter
Produced
Big League Talent co.
ABOUT US
Our story began nearly 30 years ago with a vision of combining aesthetics and technical excellence in lighting design that would set the standard in the industry.
Our team collaborates with each client and design team to develop a unique lighting solution that completes their overall design vision.
Through professionalism, dedication and exceptional project management, we deliver the highest quality lighting design which enhances the architecture, art, interior design, and landscape of luxury residences and exclusive hospitality properties.
COMPANY VALUES
Diligent – Exceptional attention to detail and design quality
Earnest – Collaborative, humble, and authentic approach
Nimble – Adaptable and responsive in a fast-paced environment
Savvy – Strong technical expertise paired with design sensibility
INDUSTRY AWARDS (NATIONAL)
2024 IES Illumination Awards (San Francisco Section)
Awards of Merit: Interior, Lighting Control Innovation – Caymus-Suisun Winery, Suisun Valley
2022 IES Illumination Awards (San Francisco Section)
Awards of Merit: Interior, Energy & Environmental, Lighting Control Innovation – St. Joseph’s Art Society, San Francisco
2020 California Preservation Design Award for Historic Preservation – St. Joseph’s Art Society, San Francisco
INDUSTRY AWARDS (REGIONAL)
2024 IES SF Lux Awards
Second Place – Lighting Control Innovation - Caymus-Suisun Winery, Suisun Valley
Third Place - Interior Lighting – CaymusSuisun Winery, Suisun Valley
2022 IES SF Lux Awards
Award of Excellence – St. Joseph’s Art Society, San Francisco Awards of Merit – Interior, Outdoor, Control Innovation, Energy and Environmental Design – St. Joseph’s Art Society, San Francisco
Associate Lighting Designer
Location: Novato, CA (Marin County)
Salary Range: Excellent benefits and competitive compensation commensurate with experience
Our Client is seeking an Associate Lighting Designer to join their collaborative design team and contribute to the creation of exceptional lighting environments across multiple concurrent projects.
This role offers an opportunity to work closely with the Principal and experienced lighting professionals, taking ownership of lighting layouts, specifications, controls coordination, and project delivery from concept through installation and final focusing.
The ideal candidate combines technical expertise with strong organizational skills and a passion for creating thoughtful, high-quality lighting solutions.
Key Responsibilities
Design & Documentation
Develop lighting layouts and fixture specifications.
Produce lighting submittals, ordering cut sheets, and design review plans. Create preliminary lighting control system layouts.
Develop Ketra circuiting details. Add circuiting, power supplies, and fixture tagging to lighting plans.
Respond to lighting sketch revisions (LSKs) and design updates.
Project Coordination
Manage multiple projects and plan sets simultaneously. Track project tasks, budgets, and deliverables across project phases.
Prioritize daily workloads to meet project deadlines.
Communicate critical project information to the Principal and internal design team.
Delegate drafting and specification-related tasks where appropriate.
Key Responsibilities
Collaboration & Client Engagement
Attend internal and external project meetings. Collaborate with architects, interior designers, contractors, consultants, and other project stakeholders.
Build and maintain strong professional relationships with project teams. Evaluate and research new lighting and control products.
Site & Installation Support
Conduct site visits and installation reviews when required.
Verify lighting installations align with design intent.
Perform final lighting adjustments and fixture focusing upon project completion.
Ideal Candidate Profile
Essential Experience
Minimum 3 years' experience in: Lighting Design (Residential or Commercial), or Electrical Engineering with lighting-related project experience. Strong experience producing technical drawings in AutoCAD.
Working knowledge of lighting fixtures, controls, and lighting systems. Understanding of California Title 24 energy code requirements.
Experience coordinating multiple projects simultaneously.
Preferred Education
Bachelor's Degree in:
Architecture
Interior Design
Electrical Engineering
Related discipline
Personal Attributes
Successful candidates will demonstrate:
Passion for lighting design and the built environment.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Strong organizational and time-management abilities.
Confidence interacting with clients and project stakeholders.
Ability to work independently while thriving in a collaborative team environment. Professionalism, enthusiasm, and attention to detail.
Strong problem-solving skills and proactive thinking.
Additional Requirements
Ability to perform site visits, including occasional ladder work.
Valid driver's license and clean driving record.
Why This Opportunity Stands Out
This is an opportunity to work with a design-led practice known for delivering high-quality lighting solutions on prestigious projects. You will gain exposure to all phases of project delivery, collaborate with talented industry professionals, and continue developing your expertise in lighting design and controls.
The role offers:
Competitive compensation aligned with experience.
Comprehensive benefits package. Collaborative and supportive team environment. Opportunities for professional growth and development. Exposure to innovative lighting technologies and design solutions.
