Lighting Design Consultant

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Lighting Design Consultant

Company: NV5

Location: Dallas, Texas, United States

Job Type: OTHER

Category: Engineering Consulting / Lighting Design

Date Posted: April 30, 2026

Experience Level: 6+ Years

Remote Status: Fully Remote (Work-from-home)

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is focused on providing specialized lighting design consulting services for diverse facilities, including performance, education, civic, hospitality, and entertainment venues.

• The position requires a blend of creative design, technical analysis using advanced modeling software, and client-facing communication to deliver high-quality lighting solutions.

• The Lighting Design Consultant will be an integral part of a collaborative, technically curious team within NV5's Technology and Acoustics group, contributing to multiple projects concurrently.

• Key responsibilities include developing design reports, specifications, drawings, and conducting on-site measurements and testing to ensure project success and client satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the listing is for a "Lighting Design Consultant," the core responsibilities and required skills align with a specialized engineering or technical consulting role within the built environment sector. The "OTHER" employment type is noted but the description clearly defines a professional consulting capacity. The remote nature of the role is a significant advantage for candidates outside of specific listed cities.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Contribute to project design teams by developing creative, collaborative, and evidence-based lighting design solutions.

• Conduct client interviews to understand project requirements and draft comprehensive Lighting Basis of Design documents.

• Prepare high-quality lighting design reports, detailed drawings, construction specifications, and accurate cost analyses.

• Utilize computer modeling software (e.g., AGi32) to analyze and validate lighting solutions, ensuring optimal performance and energy efficiency.

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

• Perform on-site lighting measurements, controls testing, and post-installation inspections to verify design implementation and performance.

• Collaborate with architectural team members and clients throughout the project lifecycle, attending meetings and virtual conferences.

• Support business development activities, including client meetings, proposal development, and interview preparation, in coordination with firm principals.

• Ensure all project deliverables are completed on time, within budget, and meet NV5's stringent quality standards.

• Participate in off-hours luminaire aiming and testing as required to support design services.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical design execution, project coordination, and business development support, indicating a role with significant client interaction and project ownership. The requirement for on-site measurements and testing suggests a need for practical field experience in addition to design skills.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

Required Skills:

• Expertise in various lighting design disciplines, including interior architectural lighting, stage lighting, lighting for video, and exterior/site lighting.

• Proficiency in industry-standard lighting analysis and modeling software such as AGi32.

• Strong command of AutoCAD for developing detailed drawings and plans.

• Excellent written and oral communication skills for client interaction, report writing, and team collaboration.

• Demonstrated understanding of key lighting codes, including CA Title 24, ASHRAE 90.1, and IECC.

• Exceptional attention to detail, ensuring accuracy in all design deliverables and calculations.

• Ability to work effectively both independently as a sole contributor and collaboratively within a team environment.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in business development within the professional services sector, with a specific focus on lighting design.

• Lighting Certification (LC) and/or Certified Lighting Controls Professional (CLCP) certifications.

• Familiarity with BlueBeam for document management and collaboration.

• Experience with Revit and Building Information Modeling (BIM) for integrated design processes.

• Experience with ElumeTools for lighting analysis.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "healthy appetite for technical exploration and professional development" is a qualitative requirement that suggests the company values continuous learning and proactive problem-solving from its consultants. The explicit mention of specific software like AGi32 and AutoCAD, alongside lighting codes, points to the essential technical toolkit for this role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 diverse lighting design projects, demonstrating a range of applications (e.g., commercial, educational, entertainment, exterior).

• Highlight projects where you developed comprehensive lighting designs from concept through construction documentation.

• Include examples of detailed lighting calculations, illuminance modeling outputs (e.g., renderings, false-color plots from AGi32), and technical specifications.

• Present case studies that illustrate your problem-solving approach, design rationale, and the impact of your lighting solutions on project aesthetics, functionality, and performance.

Process Documentation:

• Provide examples of your workflow for developing a Lighting Basis of Design document based on client interviews.

• Include samples of your specification writing process or completed specification sections.

• Showcase examples of how you analyze and validate lighting designs using software and how you document these findings.

• Present instances where you reviewed submittals or conducted on-site inspections, detailing your process and observations.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a consulting role at this level, a robust portfolio is critical. Candidates should prepare to present detailed case studies that not only showcase design proficiency but also their ability to manage projects, communicate effectively with stakeholders, and deliver measurable results, aligning with the "evidence-based" approach mentioned in the responsibilities.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Life Insurance coverage.

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

• 401(k) retirement savings plan.

Working Hours:

• The standard working hours are approximately 40 hours per week. As a fully remote position, there is an expectation of flexibility to manage tasks and client needs effectively, potentially including occasional off-hours work for specific testing or site visits.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on industry data for specialized consultants with 6+ years of experience in a major US city. Actual compensation will vary based on specific experience, qualifications, and negotiation. The benefits package is standard for a professional services firm and emphasizes professional growth, which is attractive to experienced consultants.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: NV5 operates in the Engineering Consulting sector, with a specific focus on technology, compliance, and engineering solutions for the built environment. Their Technology and Acoustics group, where this role resides, is known for delivering specialized services across audiovisual, IT, security, lighting, healthcare technologies, and acoustics. This context suggests a culture that values technical expertise, innovation, and client-centric problem-solving.

Company Size: NV5 is a large, publicly traded company (implied by its scale and services). This size indicates a stable organization with established processes, resources, and potential for career advancement, while also suggesting a need for consultants to navigate larger corporate structures and potentially more standardized workflows.

Founded: NV5 was founded in 2006. Its relatively recent founding for a large firm suggests a dynamic, growth-oriented company that has scaled rapidly by acquiring and integrating specialized firms, such as The Sextant Group (formerly relevant to this role).

Team Structure:

• This role is part of the Lighting Design practice within NV5's Technology and Acoustics group. The team is described as "close-knit," implying strong collaboration and peer support among highly qualified lighting designers.

• The reporting structure likely involves a direct report to a Principal or a Senior Lighting Designer who oversees project assignments and professional development.

Methodology:

• NV5 emphasizes an "evidence-based approach" to lighting design, suggesting a reliance on data, analysis, and proven methods.

• Workflow planning and optimization are critical, as the role involves managing multiple concurrent projects with a focus on on-time, on-budget delivery.

• Automation and efficiency practices are implied through the use of advanced analysis tools and the need for clear, responsive client communication.

Company Website: www.nv5.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture at NV5, as a large engineering consultancy, is likely to be professional, results-oriented, and client-focused. The emphasis on "Delivering Solutions and Improving Lives" suggests a mission-driven organization that values impactful work. The "close-knit" team description for the lighting practice hints at a supportive and collaborative environment within a larger corporate framework.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position aligns with a mid-to-senior level consultant role. With a mandatory 6+ years of experience, the role demands a high degree of autonomy, technical expertise, and the ability to manage project components with minimal supervision. It's a position where individuals are expected to contribute significantly to project success and client relationships.

Reporting Structure: The Lighting Design Consultant will likely report to a Principal within the Technology and Acoustics group or a Senior Lighting Designer. This structure offers opportunities for mentorship from experienced leaders and exposure to strategic decision-making within the practice.

Operations Impact: The role directly impacts the aesthetic, functional, and operational success of client facilities through expertly designed lighting systems. This includes influencing user experience, energy efficiency, safety, and the overall architectural vision. The business development aspect also means contributing to the firm's revenue growth and market presence.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization & Leadership: Advancement to Senior Lighting Designer, Project Manager, or Principal roles, leading larger projects, managing client relationships, and mentoring junior staff.

• Skill Development: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific lighting design areas (e.g., theatrical lighting, controls integration, sustainable design), gain new certifications (LC, CLCP), and become proficient in emerging technologies and software.

• Cross-Disciplinary Experience: Potential to gain exposure to other areas within NV5's Technology and Acoustics group, fostering a broader understanding of integrated building systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for a Lighting Design Consultant at a firm like NV5 typically involves progression from technical execution to project leadership and business development. The explicit mention of business development support suggests that individuals looking to expand their commercial acumen will find opportunities here.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a fully remote position, allowing candidates to work from home. This offers significant flexibility and eliminates commuting. The company emphasizes that candidates can apply from major cities beyond those specifically listed for other roles, indicating a broad geographic reach for remote talent.

Office Location(s): While the role is remote, the primary listed location is Dallas, TX. NV5 has numerous offices across the US, suggesting a national presence that supports project collaboration and client engagement across various regions.

Workspace Context:

• The remote work environment necessitates strong self-discipline, time management, and effective digital communication skills.

• Access to necessary software (AGi32, AutoCAD, BlueBeam, MS Office) is essential, and candidates should ensure they have a reliable home office setup.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is approximately 40 hours per week. The remote nature implies flexibility in structuring the workday, provided project deadlines are met and client needs are addressed. Occasional off-hours work may be required for specific on-site testing or critical project phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "work-from-home position" is a key perk. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate their ability to work autonomously and maintain high productivity in a remote setting, emphasizing their self-management skills and home office setup.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

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

• Technical Interview: Likely involves detailed discussions about your lighting design experience, project methodologies, software proficiency (AGi32, AutoCAD), and understanding of lighting codes. Be prepared to walk through specific project examples from your portfolio.

• Behavioral/Situational Interview: Focuses on your approach to collaboration, problem-solving, client management, handling pressure, and demonstrating core values like integrity and accountability. Expect questions about how you've handled challenging projects or client interactions.

• Business Development Discussion: If you have relevant experience, expect to discuss your approach to client engagement, proposal writing, and contributing to firm growth.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader or Principal, focusing on cultural fit, long-term career aspirations, and overall strategic alignment with NV5.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Select Projects: Choose 3-5 of your strongest projects that best represent your skills in architectural, stage, or exterior lighting design, showcasing diversity.

• Detail Your Role: Clearly articulate your specific contributions to each project, especially if working in a team. Use "I" statements for individual contributions and "we" for team efforts.

• Showcase Technical Depth: Include examples of your illuminance modeling (AGi32 outputs), detailed drawings, specification excerpts, and calculations. Explain your design rationale and how you addressed project challenges.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, highlight the impact of your designs – e.g., energy savings, improved user experience, aesthetic enhancements, compliance with codes.

• Organize Logically: Present your portfolio in a clean, professional format (PDF is standard). Organize projects chronologically or by type, with a clear introduction for each.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss how you would approach a hypothetical lighting design challenge for a specific type of facility (e.g., an educational institution or a hospitality venue).

• Prepare to elaborate on your process for developing a Lighting Basis of Design, including key questions you would ask clients.

• Practice articulating your understanding of specific lighting codes and how they influence design decisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is a crucial element for this role. Candidates should prepare a presentation that clearly demonstrates their technical acumen, design thinking, and ability to deliver professional-grade lighting solutions. Emphasize projects that show problem-solving capabilities and client satisfaction.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• AGi32: Essential for illuminance modeling, analysis, and validation of lighting designs. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in using this software for various design scenarios.

• AutoCAD: Required for creating detailed lighting plans, layouts, and construction drawings. Familiarity with architectural and engineering drafting standards is expected.

• BlueBeam: Preferred for document review, markups, collaboration on drawings and specifications, and efficient workflow management.

• Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook): Standard for reporting, data analysis, communication, and project management tasks. Excel is particularly important for cost analyses and performance tracking.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Illuminance Modeling Software (e.g., AGi32): Used for performance analysis, generating visual representations of light levels, and reporting on design outcomes.

• Specification Writing Software/Templates: While not explicitly named, candidates will need to produce detailed specifications, likely using industry-standard formats or templates.

• Reporting Tools: Proficiency in compiling data from analysis and site visits into comprehensive project reports.

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly listed as a requirement for the Lighting Design Consultant's day-to-day tasks, familiarity with CRM systems might be beneficial for business development activities.

• Automation in the context of this role primarily refers to efficient use of modeling and drafting software to streamline the design and documentation process.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in AGi32 and AutoCAD is non-negotiable. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with these tools in detail, including specific applications and problem-solving scenarios. Experience with Revit/BIM is a significant plus, indicating a forward-thinking approach to design integration.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity, Responsibility, and Accountability: These are explicitly stated values, suggesting a company culture that prioritizes ethical conduct, ownership of work, and reliability. Operations professionals are expected to uphold these principles in all project dealings.

• Technical Curiosity & Professional Development: The emphasis on a "healthy appetite for technical exploration" and professional development indicates a culture that values continuous learning, innovation, and staying abreast of industry advancements.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: The description of a "close-knit team" and the need to "work equally well as an individual contributor or team member" highlights the importance of collaborative spirit and effective teamwork.

• Client Focus & Quality Delivery: The mission "Delivering Solutions and Improving Lives" and the requirement to deliver "high caliber results in a timely manner" underscore a strong client-centric approach and a commitment to excellence in project execution.

Collaboration Style:

• Evidence-Based Approach: Decisions and designs are expected to be supported by data and analysis, fostering a culture of objective evaluation and problem-solving.

• Cross-Functional Integration: Collaboration with architects and other engineering disciplines is essential, requiring clear communication and a holistic understanding of project goals.

• Responsive Communication: The need for "clear, responsive client communication" suggests a proactive and engaged interaction style is valued within the team and with external partners.

📝 Enhancement Note: For candidates applying to this role, demonstrating alignment with these values—particularly integrity, accountability, and a drive for continuous learning—will be crucial. Highlighting instances where you've collaborated effectively or taken ownership of a challenging situation will strengthen your application.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Projects: Managing concurrent projects with varying deadlines and client demands requires exceptional organizational and time management skills.

• Remote Collaboration: Maintaining strong team cohesion and effective communication in a fully remote environment can be challenging, requiring proactive engagement.

• Technical Problem-Solving: Addressing complex lighting challenges in diverse facility types, ensuring both aesthetic and functional requirements are met, often requires creative and innovative solutions.

• Evolving Technology & Codes: Staying current with rapid advancements in lighting technology, controls, and increasingly stringent energy codes demands continuous learning and adaptation.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Certification Pursuits: NV5 encourages certifications like LC and CLCP, providing pathways for professional growth and validation of expertise.

• Advanced Technical Skills: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specialized areas of lighting design, controls integration, and advanced modeling techniques.

• Mentorship and Leadership: Learning from experienced Principals and Senior Designers offers invaluable insights into project management, client relations, and business development.

• Industry Exposure: Potential to work on high-profile projects and gain exposure to new design trends and technologies through professional development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for senior-level consulting roles. Candidates should be prepared to discuss how they proactively manage these challenges, highlighting resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex lighting design project you managed from concept to completion. What were the key challenges, how did you overcome them, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on your process, problem-solving, and results.)

• "How do you approach developing a Lighting Basis of Design for a new project, particularly when initial client requirements are vague?" (Highlight your client interview skills and systematic approach.)

• "Explain your process for using AGi32 or similar software to analyze lighting performance and resolve design issues. Provide an example." (Demonstrate technical proficiency and analytical thinking.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about NV5 and specifically our Lighting Design practice?" (Research NV5's projects and values; connect them to your career goals.)

• "How do you contribute to a collaborative team environment, especially in a remote setting?" (Provide examples of your teamwork and communication strategies.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure for Impact: Begin with a brief overview of your career and expertise. For each project, clearly state the client, project type, your role, the design challenges, your solutions, and the final outcomes.

• Visual Storytelling: Use high-quality renderings, diagrams, and before/after photos where possible. Explain why you made certain design decisions.

• Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use numbers to illustrate your impact (e.g., "achieved X% energy savings," "met Y lux levels," "reduced glare by Z%").

• Be Ready for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about your technical choices, software usage, and problem-solving approaches. Be prepared to discuss specific details of your calculations and design rationale.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not just technical skill, but also strong communication, problem-solving abilities, and a proactive, collaborative mindset suitable for a remote consulting role. The portfolio presentation is your primary opportunity to showcase your capabilities.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Lighting Design Consultant position:

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

• Customize your resume: Tailor your resume to highlight your 6+ years of lighting design consulting experience, proficiency in AGi32, AutoCAD, and knowledge of lighting codes. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Prepare your portfolio: Curate 3-5 of your strongest projects, ensuring clear documentation of your role, design process, technical analysis, and outcomes. Be ready to present this virtually.

• Research NV5: Familiarize yourself with NV5's projects, services, and company culture, particularly within their Technology and Acoustics group. Understand their mission and values.

• Practice your pitch: Rehearse your responses to common interview questions and practice presenting your portfolio, focusing on clarity, conciseness, and demonstrating your expertise and cultural fit.

⚠️ 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.