Sr. 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
Senior Associate Lighting Designer
Location: Novato, CA (Marin County)
Salary Range: Excellent benefits and competitive compensation commensurate with experience
Our client is seeking an experienced Senior Associate Lighting Designer to lead complex architectural lighting projects from concept through construction.
This position is ideal for a senior-level lighting professional who enjoys balancing technical excellence, client engagement, project leadership, and team mentorship. The successful candidate will manage multiple active projects simultaneously, collaborate directly with firm leadership, and play a key role in maintaining the firm's reputation for design quality and technical rigor.
Key Responsibilities
Project Leadership
Lead lighting design efforts across multiple concurrent luxury residential and hospitality projects.
Manage project scope, schedules, budgets, and consultant coordination. Ensure design intent is maintained throughout all project phases.
Design & Technical Delivery
Develop lighting layouts, fixture specifications, submittals, and documentation. Produce and oversee AutoCAD-based lighting design packages.
Review Ketra circuiting, power supply layouts, fixture tagging, and design review plans. Evaluate new lighting technologies and control systems to support innovation and quality standards.
Key Responsibilities
Client & Stakeholder Management
Serve as a primary point of contact for clients and project teams. Lead project meetings with architects, interior designers, contractors, and owners. Communicate technical requirements and design decisions clearly and effectively.
Team Development
Mentor and support junior designers. Delegate drafting and specification tasks appropriately. Review work product and provide constructive feedback to maintain quality standards.
Site Involvement
Conduct site visits to verify installation quality. Participate in evening lighting focus and adjustment sessions as required.
Ideal Candidate Profile
Experience
5–7+ years of architectural lighting design experience.
Experience within luxury residential, hospitality, restaurant, or related sectors preferred.
Proven success managing multiple projects simultaneously.
Technical Skills
Advanced AutoCAD proficiency. Strong working knowledge of Bluebeam and Microsoft Office applications.
Familiarity with residential and hospitality lighting fixtures and controls.
Knowledge of California Title 24 Energy Code.
Revit, InDesign, and rendering experience are advantageous.
Personal Attributes
Exceptionally detail-oriented and organized. Strong communicator with polished clientfacing skills. Collaborative and low-ego team player. Comfortable mentoring junior staff and providing leadership.
Able to thrive in a fast-paced, highly customized project environment.
Additional Requirements
Valid driver's license with clean driving record. Ability to climb ladders and participate in onsite project inspections.
Compensation & Benefits
EJA offers a competitive compensation package that includes:
Performance-based bonus opportunity
100% employer-paid medical and dental coverage
Company-paid life, short-term disability, and long-term disability insurance
401(k) with employer match
Generous PTO package
96 hours vacation to start
40 hours sick leave
10 paid holidays
Quarterly wellness reimbursement
Company-provided laptop and tablet
Monthly mobile phone stipend
Regular team lunches and wellness perks
Hybrid work flexibility after onboarding
Career Growth
This role offers direct involvement in some of the Bay Area's most prestigious residential and hospitality projects, along with a clearly defined advancement path toward Associate Principal and Principallevel leadership positions.
Why This Opportunity Stands Out
This is an excellent opportunity for a senior lighting designer seeking greater ownership, leadership responsibility, and exposure to high-profile projects within a respected boutique design practice. Candidates who enjoy combining technical precision, design excellence, and client engagement will find significant long-term growth potential at EJA Lighting Design.
