Lighting Design Consultant

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Lighting Design Consultant

Company: NV5

Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States

Job Type: OTHER

Category: Lighting Design & Engineering Consulting

Date Posted: April 30, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: Remote OK

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive innovative, high-performance lighting designs for diverse facilities, including performance venues, educational institutions, civic buildings, hospitality, and entertainment spaces.

• Collaborate closely with architectural teams and clients to translate conceptual ideas into detailed, evidence-based lighting solutions.

• Develop comprehensive project documentation, including reports, specifications, drawings, and illuminance models, ensuring adherence to quality and budget constraints.

• Conduct on-site measurements, controls testing, and inspections to validate design implementation and performance.

• Support business development initiatives, including client interviews and proposal development, to foster growth within the lighting design practice.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within NV5's Technology and Acoustics group, specifically supporting their specialized lighting design practice. The description emphasizes a collaborative, technically curious, and client-focused approach, aligning with typical expectations for a senior consultant role in a professional services firm. The "OTHER" employment type is noted, but the description implies a full-time, permanent position.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Contribute to the project design team by providing creative, collaborative, and evidence-based lighting design solutions.

• Conduct client interviews to gather requirements and draft comprehensive Lighting Basis of Design reports.

• Develop high-quality lighting design deliverables, including detailed reports, drawings, specifications, illuminance models, and cost analyses.

• Utilize computer modeling software to analyze and validate lighting solutions, ensuring optimal performance and energy efficiency.

• Review and approve submittals and shop drawings to ensure compliance with design intent and project specifications.

• Perform on-site lighting measurements and controls testing to verify system functionality and adherence to design parameters.

• Conduct on-site inspections to assess the implementation of lighting design solutions and identify any discrepancies.

• Coordinate with firm Principals and marketing staff on business development activities, including sales meetings, interviews, and proposal writing.

• Attend project meetings, site visits, and virtual conferences, and perform on-site observations and testing as required.

• Assist with business development activities, including lead generation and client engagement, as requested.

• Ensure all project work is completed on time, within budget, and to NV5's high standards of quality.

• Perform additional duties as assigned to support the team and project objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical design, project management, client interaction, and business development, indicating a senior-level consultant role. The emphasis on "on-time, on-budget, and high standards of quality" is critical for consulting environments.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• A minimum of 6 years of progressive experience as a consultant in lighting design.

Required Skills:

• Expertise in a broad range of lighting design disciplines, including interior architectural lighting, stage lighting, lighting for video production, and exterior/site lighting design.

• Exceptional attention to detail and a meticulous approach to design documentation and analysis.

• Excellent oral and written communication skills, essential for client interaction and technical reporting.

• Demonstrated values of integrity, responsibility, and accountability in professional conduct.

• Ability to work effectively both as an individual contributor and as part of a collaborative team.

• Capacity to maintain a professional and positive attitude in a fast-paced, dynamic consulting environment.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) for reporting, analysis, and communication.

• Experience with industry-standard lighting design software, including AGi32, AutoCAD, and BlueBeam.

• Familiarity with Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) Lighting Library Reference Standards.

Preferred Skills:

• Lighting Certification (LC).

• Certified Lighting Controls Professional (CLCP) certification.

• Experience with ElumeTools for lighting analysis.

• Experience with Revit / BIM software.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a Bachelor's degree in specific fields and the "6 years' experience" strongly suggest a mid-to-senior level consultant role. The inclusion of certifications like LC and CLCP as "highly desirable" indicates a focus on professional credentialing. The blend of technical software, code knowledge, and soft skills (communication, collaboration) is typical for client-facing roles in consulting.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a range of completed lighting design projects, demonstrating expertise across different facility types (e.g., performance, education, civic, hospitality, entertainment).

• Provide detailed case studies for at least 2-3 significant projects, highlighting the design process from concept to completion.

• Include examples of technical deliverables such as lighting reports, Basis of Design documents, detailed drawings, and specification sections.

• Present evidence of illuminance modeling and analysis, showcasing the use of software like AGi32 to validate design outcomes.

Process Documentation:

• Illustrate your approach to client consultation and requirements gathering, including how you develop a Lighting Basis of Design.

• Detail your workflow for creating lighting documentation, from initial concept sketches and CAD drawings to final specification documents.

• Show examples of how you conduct lighting analysis using modeling software and interpret the results to optimize design performance and energy efficiency.

• Document your process for reviewing submittals and shop drawings, ensuring design intent is maintained throughout project execution.

• Provide examples of on-site testing, measurement, and inspection protocols you follow to ensure successful project implementation.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a consulting role like this, a portfolio is crucial. The emphasis should be on demonstrating a structured design process, technical proficiency with specific software, and the ability to translate complex technical information into clear, actionable deliverables for clients and project teams. Highlighting the "evidence-based" and "technical exploration" aspects from the job description will be key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Based on the experience level (5-10 years), location (Philadelphia, PA), and industry (Engineering Consulting), a competitive salary range for a Lighting Design Consultant is estimated to be between $85,000 and $115,000 annually. This range can vary based on specific qualifications, certifications, and the candidate's business development track record.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Medical Insurance

• Dental Insurance

• Life Insurance coverage

• Paid Time Off (PTO) for work-life balance

• 401(k) retirement savings plan

Working Hours:

• The role is expected to require approximately 40 hours per week.

• While the position is remote, candidates should be prepared for occasional overnight travel for site visits, client meetings, and off-hours luminaire aiming and testing as needed to support design services.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on industry benchmarks for similar roles in engineering consulting in major US metropolitan areas with a 5-10 year experience requirement. Benefits listed are directly from the provided data. The remote nature is balanced with the expectation of travel for project-specific needs.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering Consulting, Technology, Compliance, and Design Services. NV5 operates within the broader AEC (Architecture, Engineering, Construction) industry, with a specialized focus on technology and acoustics solutions for the built environment.

Company Size: NV5 is a publicly traded company (NASDAQ: NVEE) with a significant global presence, indicating a structured corporate environment with ample resources. The Technology and Acoustics group, while specialized, benefits from the scale and stability of the parent organization.

Founded: NV5 was founded in 2006, making it a relatively established firm with a track record of growth and acquisition. This history suggests a company culture that values strategic expansion and integration of diverse expertise.

Team Structure:

• The lighting design practice operates within the Technology and Acoustics group, suggesting a multidisciplinary environment where lighting designers collaborate with specialists in audiovisual, IT, security, healthcare technologies, acoustics, and vibration control.

• The team is described as "close-knit," implying a collaborative and supportive atmosphere despite the broader corporate structure.

Methodology:

• Data Analysis and Insights: Emphasis on using advanced analysis tools and illuminance modeling software (e.g., AGi32) to provide evidence-based lighting solutions.

• Workflow Planning and Optimization: Focus on developing efficient design processes, from client interviews and Basis of Design to specification writing and on-site validation, ensuring quality and adherence to project timelines and budgets.

• Automation and Efficiency Practices: While not explicitly detailed, the use of software like AutoCAD, BlueBeam, and potentially Revit/BIM suggests an embrace of technology to streamline workflows and improve accuracy.

Company Website: www.nv5.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context highlights NV5 as a substantial, growth-oriented firm with a specialized technology and acoustics division. The "close-knit team" description within this division suggests a culture that balances the benefits of a large corporation with the agility and camaraderie of a smaller, specialized unit.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a mid-to-senior level Lighting Design Consultant. It requires a minimum of 6 years of experience and involves contributing to project design, client interaction, and supporting business development. The responsibilities suggest an individual contributor role with significant autonomy and the expectation of leading design efforts on specific project components.

Reporting Structure: The Lighting Design Consultant will likely report to a Principal or Senior Manager within the Technology and Acoustics group. They will collaborate closely with project managers, architectural teams, clients, and potentially other specialists within the broader NV5 organization.

Operations Impact: The Lighting Design Consultant directly impacts the success of projects by ensuring aesthetically pleasing, functional, and energy-efficient lighting solutions. Their work contributes to client satisfaction, project profitability, and NV5's reputation for delivering high-quality, innovative designs. The business development aspect also contributes to the firm's growth and market presence.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization & Expertise: Deepen expertise in specific lighting design niches (e.g., sustainable lighting, advanced controls, theatrical lighting) or gain proficiency in emerging technologies.

• Leadership Development: Progress to Project Manager roles, leading larger projects and teams, or move into Principal-level positions with increased business development and strategic responsibilities.

• Professional Credentialing: Pursue and maintain certifications such as LC and CLCP, becoming a recognized expert in the field.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Gain exposure to other disciplines within the Technology and Acoustics group, potentially leading to broader consulting capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path indicated is typical for a technical consultant in a professional services firm, moving from individual contribution to project leadership and business development. The emphasis on "technical exploration and professional development" suggests a company that supports continuous learning.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a remote position, offering flexibility for candidates across the United States. While the core work is done remotely, the role necessitates occasional on-site visits for project-specific needs.

Office Location(s): While not tied to a specific physical office, candidates are welcome from major cities beyond those listed. NV5 has a broad network of offices, and the company's headquarters are in New York, NY. The primary work location for this role will be the candidate's home office.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Despite being remote, the role emphasizes collaboration with internal teams (architects, other consultants) and external clients through virtual meetings, calls, and shared digital platforms.

• Tools and Technology: Access to industry-standard design and analysis software (AGi32, AutoCAD, BlueBeam, potentially Revit/BIM) is essential. A reliable internet connection and a dedicated home office space are implied requirements.

• Team Interaction: Regular participation in project meetings, virtual conferences, and team calls will be expected to foster connection and ensure project alignment.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is approximately 40 hours per week.

• Flexibility in managing the remote workday is likely, but candidates must be available for scheduled meetings and client calls during core business hours.

• Availability for occasional off-hours work is noted for specific project tasks like luminaire aiming and testing.

📝 Enhancement Note: The remote work arrangement is a key feature, but the expectation of travel and occasional off-hours work for specific project phases is crucial for candidates to understand. This hybrid approach balances flexibility with the practical demands of consulting.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess experience, qualifications, and alignment with the role's requirements.

• Technical Interview: Likely involves a discussion of your lighting design philosophy, technical expertise, and experience with specific software and codes. Expect questions about your approach to design challenges.

• Portfolio Review Session: A dedicated session where you will present selected projects from your portfolio, explaining your design process, technical solutions, and the impact of your work. Be prepared to discuss specific case studies in detail.

• Behavioral & Cultural Fit Interview: Assessment of your soft skills, including communication, collaboration, problem-solving, and how you align with NV5's values (integrity, responsibility, accountability). You may meet with a Principal or hiring manager during this stage.

• Business Development Discussion: If your experience aligns, there may be a discussion about your capabilities and experience in business development activities.

• Final Offer: Following successful interviews and reference checks.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best showcase your range, technical proficiency, and problem-solving skills relevant to NV5's project types.

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the client's needs, your design approach, the technical challenges you overcame, and the measurable outcomes (e.g., energy savings, aesthetic improvements, client satisfaction).

• Highlight Technical Depth: Clearly explain your use of software like AGi32, AutoCAD, and BlueBeam. Showcase specific drawings, calculations, and modeling results.

• Demonstrate Code Compliance: Illustrate how you integrated and satisfied relevant lighting codes (ASHRAE 90.1, Title 24, IECC) within your designs.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the value of your lighting designs (e.g., energy reduction percentages, lux levels achieved, budget adherence).

• Prepare for Q&A: Anticipate questions about your design choices, problem-solving strategies, and how you handle challenging client or project situations.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss hypothetical design scenarios or to walk through a specific project in detail, focusing on your decision-making process.

• Familiarize yourself with NV5's recent projects and their overall approach to lighting design and technology consulting.

• Practice articulating your value proposition, particularly how your skills and experience can contribute to NV5's business development goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is structured to assess technical skills, design methodology, client management, and business acumen. A strong portfolio presentation is critical, focusing on demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of lighting design principles, software proficiency, and project outcomes.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• AGi32: Essential for illuminance modeling, analysis, and rendering of lighting designs. Expect to demonstrate proficiency in creating accurate models and interpreting results.

• AutoCAD: Core software for developing detailed lighting plans, elevations, and details.

• BlueBeam Revu: Critical for document management, PDF annotation, markups, and collaboration on project drawings and specifications.

• Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook): Standard for reporting, data analysis, communication, and project administration.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Illuminance Modeling Software (e.g., AGi32): Used for quantitative analysis of light levels, uniformity, and glare.

• Specification Software/Tools: For creating detailed technical specifications for lighting fixtures, controls, and installation.

• Reporting Tools (within Office Suite): For compiling project findings, design reports, and cost analyses.

CRM & Automation:

• Potential CRM Use: While not explicitly stated, experience with CRM systems for tracking business development leads and client interactions would be beneficial, given the business development responsibilities.

• BIM/Revit: Desirable but not required. Experience with Building Information Modeling software like Revit could enhance collaboration and model integration within larger architectural projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with AGi32, AutoCAD, and BlueBeam is a must-have. Experience with Revit/BIM is a strong plus. The role requires the ability to leverage these tools for detailed design, analysis, and documentation.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity, Responsibility, and Accountability: These are foundational values expected in all NV5 employees, particularly in a consulting role where trust and reliability are paramount.

• Technical Exploration and Professional Development: A culture that encourages continuous learning, staying abreast of new technologies, and refining design methodologies.

• Collaboration and Teamwork: The "close-knit team" description highlights the importance of working effectively with colleagues, clients, and architectural partners.

• Client Focus: A commitment to "Delivering Solutions and Improving Lives" implies a dedication to understanding and meeting client needs with high-quality, impactful designs.

• Efficiency and Quality: The expectation to deliver work "on-time, on-budget, and consistently within NV5’s high standards of quality" underscores a focus on both productivity and excellence.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Expect to work closely with architects, engineers, and other specialists within NV5's Technology and Acoustics group. This requires clear communication and an understanding of how lighting design interfaces with other building systems.

• Process Review and Feedback: A culture that likely encourages constructive feedback to refine designs and processes, fostering continuous improvement.

• Knowledge Sharing: The emphasis on professional development suggests an environment where team members share insights, best practices, and technical knowledge to elevate the collective expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company values are clearly stated and align with professional services expectations. The team culture emphasizes collaboration, continuous learning, and a strong client-centric approach, all vital for success in a consulting environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creative Design with Technical Constraints: Effectively integrating aesthetic lighting goals with performance requirements, energy codes, and budget limitations.

• Managing Multiple Concurrent Projects: Juggling deadlines, client demands, and design complexities across various projects simultaneously in a remote setting.

• Staying Current with Technology and Codes: Keeping pace with rapid advancements in lighting technology, controls, and evolving energy efficiency codes.

• Effective Remote Collaboration: Maintaining strong communication and team cohesion while working remotely, ensuring seamless coordination with internal and external stakeholders.

• Business Development Integration: Successfully contributing to business development efforts while maintaining a strong focus on project delivery.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Lighting Design Techniques: Opportunities to specialize in areas like sustainable lighting design, advanced lighting controls integration, or performance-specific lighting (e.g., sports venues, theaters).

• Software and Technology Proficiency: Deepening expertise in modeling software, BIM, or exploring new analysis tools and emerging lighting technologies.

• Professional Certifications: Support for obtaining or maintaining certifications such as LC and CLCP, enhancing professional credibility.

• Project Leadership: Potential to grow into project management roles, leading design teams and client engagements.

• Business Development Skills: Developing and honing skills in client relationship management, sales presentations, and proposal writing.

📝 Enhancement Note: Recognizing potential challenges and growth paths is key for candidates. This role offers significant opportunities for technical and professional development within a specialized field and a large, reputable firm.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for developing a Lighting Basis of Design for a new project." (Focus on client interaction, research, and initial concept formulation.)

• "Walk me through a complex lighting design challenge you faced on a past project and how you resolved it. What software did you use?" (Demonstrate problem-solving, technical skills, and use of tools like AGi32.)

• "How do you ensure compliance with lighting codes like ASHRAE 90.1 and Title 24 while meeting client aesthetic and performance goals?" (Showcase your understanding of regulatory frameworks and design integration.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about NV5 and our Technology and Acoustics group specifically?" (Research NV5's recent projects, values, and the specific services offered by this division.)

• "How do you approach collaboration with architects and other engineering disciplines?" (Emphasize your communication skills and ability to integrate lighting design into broader architectural visions.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Presentation: Begin with an overview of NV5's needs, then present 2-3 key projects. For each project: context, client needs, your design approach, technical solutions (show renderings, plans, spec excerpts), challenges overcome, and outcomes.

• Highlight Key Technologies: Explicitly demonstrate your use of AGi32, AutoCAD, and BlueBeam. Show screenshots or brief demos of your modeling and documentation.

• Quantify Results: Use metrics to showcase the impact of your designs – energy savings, lux levels, improved user experience, budget adherence.

• Be Prepared for Technical Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about your design choices, calculations, and software usage.

• Connect to Business Development: If applicable, frame your project experience in a way that demonstrates your ability to win and deliver projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on showcasing a blend of technical expertise, a structured design process, client-centric problem-solving, and an understanding of the business of consulting. The portfolio is your primary tool to demonstrate these capabilities.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Lighting Design Consultant position:

• Submit your application through the NV5 careers portal via the provided link.

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight the specific skills and experience mentioned in the job description, such as your years of lighting design consultancy, proficiency in AGi32, AutoCAD, BlueBeam, and knowledge of lighting codes. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Reduced energy consumption by X% through optimized lighting design").

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, visually appealing, and includes detailed case studies of relevant projects. Be ready to present specific examples of your work, including technical drawings, illuminance models, and specifications.

• Anticipate Interview Questions: Review the "Interview Preparation" section of this description and practice articulating your responses, especially for strategy, technical, and behavioral questions. Prepare to discuss your business development experience if applicable.

• Research NV5: Understand NV5's company mission, values, recent projects, and the specific services offered by their Technology and Acoustics group. This will help you tailor your answers and demonstrate genuine interest.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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