Lighting Designer

The Lighting Designer is responsible for the design, programming, setup, and operation of lighting systems for corporate meetings, trade shows, general sessions, and live events. 

This role combines both creative design and hands-on execution. The Lighting Designer will work directly with sales, project managers, and clients to develop practical lighting solutions that align with event objectives and budgets while also serving as the lead lighting technician onsite for assigned events. 

The ideal candidate is equally comfortable creating lighting concepts during the planning phase and operating lighting systems in a live event environment. 

• Develop lighting concepts for meetings, general sessions, exhibits, and special events. 
• Create equipment recommendations, lighting plots, and basic venue layouts. 
• Collaborate with Project Managers and Solutions team members to support proposals and customer presentations. 
• Review venue specifications and identify lighting, power, and rigging requirements. 
• Assist with labor planning and execution strategies for assigned events. 
• Balance creative design objectives with budget and operational requirements. 

• Program and operate lighting consoles during rehearsals and live events. 
• Configure intelligent fixtures, lighting networks, DMX distribution, and control systems. 
• Lead installation, focus, rehearsal, show execution, and strike activities. 
• Troubleshoot lighting systems and resolve onsite technical issues. 
• Ensure consistent show quality and customer satisfaction throughout event execution. 

• Coordinate with video, audio, LED, rigging, and event leadership teams. 
• Maintain a professional, customer-focused presence while interacting with clients and presenters. 
• Support training and development of internal technical staff. 

• Assist with maintenance, testing, and preparation of lighting inventory. 
• Recommend new technologies and equipment improvements. 
• Ensure proper documentation, labeling, and operational readiness of lighting equipment. 

• 3-5 years of experience in live event production, theatrical lighting, or corporate event environments. 
• Experience programming and operating professional lighting consoles. 
• Working knowledge of intelligent fixtures, conventional fixtures, dimming systems, and power distribution. 
• Understanding DMX, sACN, Art-Net, and lighting networking concepts. 
• Experience creating lighting layouts and basic production drawings. 
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills. 
• Excellent communication and customer service abilities. 
• Ability to travel and work evenings, weekends, holidays and extended event schedules. 

SmartSource is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. SmartSource does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender (including non-binary/third gender), transgender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation or affectional preference, national origin, citizenship, age, disability, status as a protected veteran, military status, marital status, or status in any group or class protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. SmartSource makes reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Rehabilitation Act, and applicable state and local laws.