Lighting Studio Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Lighting Studio Design Manager

Company: BARD RAO & ATHANAS CONSULTING ENGINEERS LLC (BR+A)

Location: Boston, MA, US

Job Type: Full Time

Category: Design Management / Lighting Design Operations

Date Posted: September 14, 2026

Experience Level: 8+ Years

Remote Status: Hybrid (4 days in-office, 1 day remote)

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the strategic direction and day-to-day operations of the Borealis Lighting Studio in Boston, driving practice expansion and client relationship development.

• Manage architectural lighting design projects from initial concept and design development through to construction administration, ensuring high-quality, human-centric, and sustainable outcomes.

• Serve as the primary creative voice and design leader, bringing a distinctive point of view and the ability to influence and persuade stakeholders, including architects and clients.

• Mentor and develop junior design staff, fostering a collaborative environment that encourages learning, growth, and the adoption of advanced technical systems alongside design vision.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a design-leadership opportunity within a specialized lighting studio that operates at the intersection of lighting design and engineering. The emphasis on building new relationships, pushing the practice in new directions, and carrying creative conviction suggests a significant operational responsibility for business development and studio growth, beyond traditional project management.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Spearhead the conceptualization and execution of architectural lighting design projects, ensuring alignment with client objectives, design intent, and firm standards.

• Manage project lifecycles, including client communication, team coordination, budget oversight, and construction administration, ensuring timely and successful project delivery.

• Develop and articulate a unique design vision, translating complex technical requirements into compelling and effective lighting solutions for diverse environments such as healthcare, laboratories, and specialized facilities.

• Mentor and guide junior lighting designers, providing constructive feedback, technical instruction, and career development support to enhance team capabilities.

• Cultivate and manage client relationships, identifying opportunities for new business development and expanding the studio's portfolio into new markets like hospitality, corporate, and museum installations.

• Collaborate closely with the BR+A engineering team to integrate lighting design with mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection systems, ensuring cohesive and efficient building performance.

• Champion sustainable design principles and human-centric lighting strategies, focusing on occupant comfort, safety, and well-being in all project designs.

• Oversee the use of design software and tools, ensuring proficiency and adherence to best practices for BIM integration, energy analysis, and visual representation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The description implies the manager will not only lead projects but also actively shape the studio's future direction and market presence. Responsibilities extend to business development, practice growth, and strategic client engagement, requiring a blend of design expertise and operational leadership.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited program specializing in Lighting Design, Architecture, Interior Design, or a closely related field. Experience:

• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in architectural lighting design.

• Demonstrated experience in leading projects from concept through construction administration.

• Proven track record of managing client relationships and business development initiatives.

• Experience in mentoring and directing junior design staff. Required Skills:

• Design Leadership & Vision: Ability to originate and carry design concepts from first principles, develop a distinctive and confident design sensibility, and persuasively sell design solutions.

• Project Management: Comprehensive understanding of project lifecycles, client management, team coordination, and construction administration for complex lighting projects.

• Technical Proficiency: Fluency in industry-standard design software, including Revit, AutoCAD, AGI32, Adobe Photoshop, and Adobe InDesign.

• Certifications: LC (Lighting Certified) or CLD (Certified Lighting Designer) certification is mandatory.

• Communication & Interpersonal Skills: Excellent ability to communicate design intent clearly, build rapport with clients and architects, and mentor junior team members.

• Human-Centric Design: Deep understanding and application of principles that enhance occupant comfort, safety, and inspiration through lighting.

• Sustainability Practices: Knowledge and application of sustainable design principles in lighting solutions.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in specialized environments such as healthcare, laboratories, or advanced therapy centers.

• Familiarity with building commissioning processes.

• Experience with exterior, landscape, corporate, hospitality, or museum/art installation lighting projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for both LC and CLD certifications, along with 8+ years of experience, indicates a need for a highly seasoned professional. The emphasis on "selling it persuasively" and "pushing the practice in new directions" highlights the importance of business acumen and strategic thinking alongside design and technical skills.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Process Documentation: Showcase the journey of a lighting design project, including concept sketches, ideation iterations, mood boards, mockups, and technical development stages.

• Project Leadership Evidence: Clearly define your specific role, responsibilities, and contributions on each presented project, especially highlighting leadership and client interaction.

• Technical Integration: Demonstrate how lighting design integrates with architectural plans and engineering systems, using BIM models or detailed CAD drawings.

• Problem-Solving Case Studies: Present specific examples of complex lighting challenges (e.g., technical constraints, unique spatial requirements, specific client needs) and how you devised and implemented innovative solutions.

• Client Communication Examples: Include visual or narrative examples of how you presented and defended design concepts to architects and clients.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Illustrate your approach to structuring and managing lighting design projects, including task delegation, timeline management, and quality control processes.

• System Implementation Standards: Detail how you ensure the correct specification and implementation of lighting fixtures and control systems, adhering to performance and aesthetic requirements.

• Performance Analysis: Provide examples of how you measure and analyze project success, potentially referencing post-occupancy evaluations or client feedback related to lighting performance and occupant satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application explicitly requests a portfolio that "show[s] the design process behind the results – concept sketches, iterations, mockups – not just final project photography." This strongly suggests a need for candidates to meticulously document their design thinking and problem-solving methodologies, demonstrating a structured approach to creative execution and project management.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $110,000 - $145,000 annually

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Medical Insurance

• Dental Insurance

• Life Insurance

• Disability Insurance

• 401K Plan with Company Match

• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO)

• Opportunities for professional development and growth within a large, established engineering firm. Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours, with a hybrid work arrangement requiring 4 days per week in the Boston office and 1 day remote. This structure is designed to foster collaboration and team cohesion while allowing for some flexibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is competitive for a senior-level design management role in a major metropolitan area like Boston. The inclusion of a 401K match and comprehensive insurance benefits, common for full-time positions at firms of this size, enhances the overall compensation package. The hybrid model indicates a balance between collaborative in-office work and individual remote focus.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Consulting Engineering, Architecture, Lighting Design, Building Technology Systems. BR+A operates within the broader AEC (Architecture, Engineering, Construction) industry, providing specialized consulting services.

Company Size: Over 500 employees across multiple offices, indicating a large, established, and resource-rich organization.

Founded: 1975, providing a long history and significant experience in the market.

Team Structure:

• The Borealis Lighting Studio is a specialized unit within BR+A, implying a focus on lighting design expertise.

• It operates at the convergence of lighting design and engineering, working closely with BR+A's core mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection engineering teams.

• This structure suggests a collaborative environment where cross-disciplinary input is valued, and integrated design solutions are a priority. Methodology:

• Human-Centric Design: Prioritizes creating spaces that make people feel comfortable, safe, and inspired through thoughtful lighting.

• Sustainability & Responsibility: Designs with environmental consciousness and long-term impact in mind.

• Technical Integration: Balances advanced technical systems with strong design vision, particularly in complex environments.

• Autonomy & Exploration: The studio has the freedom to pursue diverse project types and market segments based on team interests and emerging opportunities.

Company Website: www.brplusa.com

📝 Enhancement Note: BR+A's extensive network of offices and large employee base suggests a stable and reputable employer. The existence of a dedicated "Borealis Lighting Studio" highlights a strategic investment in specialized design services, offering a unique environment for a lighting professional to lead and innovate. The emphasis on collaboration with engineering teams is a key differentiator.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Studio Design Manager role, indicating a senior-level position with significant leadership responsibilities. It is a step beyond individual contributor or project designer roles, requiring strategic oversight, team management, and business development input.

Reporting Structure: While not explicitly stated, a Studio Design Manager typically reports to a higher-level Principal, Director, or Partner within the firm, or potentially a VP of Design. They would, in turn, manage a team of junior designers.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct impact on revenue generation through project leadership and business development, as well as on the firm's reputation through the quality and innovation of its lighting designs. The manager's ability to "push the practice in new directions" is key to the studio's growth and profitability.

Growth Opportunities:

• Studio Expansion: Opportunity to significantly influence and grow the Borealis Lighting Studio's capabilities, client base, and project portfolio.

• Leadership Development: Potential to move into higher leadership roles within BR+A, such as Principal or Director of Design, overseeing multiple studios or broader service lines.

• Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in niche areas of lighting design (e.g., advanced controls, therapeutic lighting, complex facade lighting) through specialized projects and professional development.

• Mentorship & Training: Develop leadership and training skills by mentoring junior staff and potentially developing internal training programs.

• Cross-Disciplinary Learning: Gain deeper insights into integrated building systems through close collaboration with BR+A's engineering departments.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career advancement for experienced lighting designers who aspire to leadership. The opportunity to shape a studio's future and contribute to business development is a significant growth prospect beyond purely design execution.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid work model, with a primary expectation of 4 days per week in the Boston office. This suggests a structured approach to fostering in-person collaboration, team building, and client engagement.

Office Location(s): The role is based in the Boston office, which is BR+A's main office, suggesting access to a broad range of internal resources and a central hub of operations.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The hybrid model and close proximity to BR+A's engineering teams indicate a workspace designed for interaction, brainstorming, and cross-functional teamwork.

• Tools & Technology: Access to industry-standard design software (Revit, AutoCAD, AGI32, Adobe Suite) and likely advanced visualization and BIM tools.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities to work closely with a team of talented lighting designers and engineers, fostering a culture of shared learning and mutual support.

• Professional Atmosphere: As part of a well-established consulting engineering firm, the environment is expected to be professional, client-focused, and driven by technical excellence.

Work Schedule: A standard full-time schedule is implied, with the hybrid arrangement providing a degree of flexibility on the designated remote day. The focus on proximity sharpening the work and strengthening the team suggests that in-office days are highly valued for collaborative tasks and team cohesion.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model is a modern approach that balances the benefits of in-person collaboration with the flexibility of remote work. For operations professionals, this typically means structured collaboration days and focused individual work periods.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio to assess qualifications, experience, and alignment with role requirements.

• Portfolio Presentation & Discussion: Candidates will likely be asked to present their portfolio, discussing their design process, specific contributions to projects, and how they approach client relationships and technical challenges.

• Technical & Design Interviews: Discussions focused on lighting design principles, software proficiency, problem-solving abilities, and design philosophy.

• Behavioral & Cultural Fit Interviews: Assessment of leadership style, mentorship capabilities, collaboration approach, and alignment with BR+A's values and the studio's culture.

• Final Round/Leadership Interview: Meeting with senior leadership to discuss strategic vision for the studio and overall fit within the firm.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Show, Don't Just Tell: Emphasize the "how" and "why" behind your designs. Include concept sketches, diagrams, iterative design studies, and rationale for material and fixture selections.

• Define Your Role Clearly: For each project, explicitly state your responsibilities, contributions, and the impact you made. Differentiate between team efforts and your individual leadership.

• Highlight Problem-Solving: Select projects that showcase your ability to tackle complex challenges (technical, aesthetic, programmatic) and present your strategic approach to resolving them.

• Demonstrate Client Acumen: Include examples of how you managed client expectations, presented proposals, and navigated feedback to achieve successful project outcomes.

• Organize for Clarity: Structure your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or by demonstrating a progression of skills. Ensure it is easy to navigate and digest.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Scenarios: Be prepared to discuss how you would approach a hypothetical lighting design challenge for a specific building type (e.g., a hospital waiting room, a museum exhibit, a tech office lobby).

• Mentorship Scenarios: Anticipate questions about how you would guide a junior designer facing a design dilemma or technical issue.

• Business Development Strategy: Consider how you would identify and pursue new client opportunities or expand services within existing client relationships.

• Software Proficiency: Be ready to discuss your experience with specific software features and workflows, and how you leverage them for efficiency and design quality.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit request for process documentation in the portfolio means candidates should prepare to articulate their methodologies for project planning, design iteration, and problem-solving in a structured, evidence-based manner, not just showcasing final aesthetics.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Revit: Essential for BIM (Building Information Modeling), integrated design, and coordination with architectural and engineering disciplines. Expected proficiency in creating and managing lighting elements within BIM environments.

• AutoCAD: Standard for 2D drafting, detailed drawings, and plan generation.

• AGI32: Critical for advanced lighting calculations, simulations, and rendering, enabling precise analysis of light levels, glare, and visual comfort.

• Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, InDesign): Used for conceptual visualization, mood boards, client presentations, report creation, and graphic design elements of the portfolio.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly mentioned as separate tools, proficiency in AGI32 and potentially other simulation software implies an ability to analyze performance metrics such as illuminance, uniformity, glare indices (e.g., UGR), and energy consumption.

• The ability to translate these technical analyses into clear, persuasive reports for clients and stakeholders is crucial. CRM & Automation:

• While BR+A likely has a firm-wide CRM for client management, the role's emphasis on business development suggests the manager should be adept at using CRM tools to track leads, manage client communications, and nurture relationships.

• Any automation tools would likely be related to project management workflows or design documentation processes, though specific tools are not listed.

📝 Enhancement Note: The mandated software suite (Revit, AutoCAD, AGI32, Adobe Suite) is standard for high-level lighting design roles. Proficiency in these tools, particularly AGI32 for advanced analysis and Revit for integrated design, is non-negotiable. The ability to use these tools to generate compelling visual and analytical output for presentations is key.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Design Conviction & Excellence: A commitment to developing and executing strong, defensible design ideas that push the boundaries of lighting design.

• Human-Centricity: A core belief in designing light to enhance human experience, comfort, safety, and well-being.

• Sustainability & Responsibility: A dedication to environmentally conscious design practices and long-term stewardship.

• Collaboration & Integration: Valuing teamwork, open communication, and close integration with engineering and architectural partners to achieve holistic solutions.

• Continuous Learning & Innovation: An ethos of staying current with technology, design trends, and industry best practices to drive innovation.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Synergy: Strong emphasis on working collaboratively with BR+A's engineering teams to achieve integrated building systems and comprehensive design solutions.

• Client-Focused Partnership: Building strong, trusting relationships with clients and architects, acting as a strategic partner rather than just a service provider.

• Mentorship & Knowledge Sharing: A culture that encourages senior staff to guide and develop junior talent, fostering an environment of mutual learning and skill development.

• Autonomy with Accountability: Empowering individuals and teams to take ownership of their work and drive projects forward, while maintaining accountability for results.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "human-centric design," "sustainability," and "working side by side with our BR+A engineering team" points to a culture that values both creative vision and technical integration, with a strong focus on occupant experience and environmental responsibility.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Technical and Creative Demands: Effectively integrating complex engineering requirements with ambitious design visions, especially in specialized environments like healthcare.

• Driving Practice Expansion: Identifying and capitalizing on new market opportunities and building new client relationships in a competitive landscape.

• Mentoring Diverse Talent: Guiding junior designers with varying skill sets and experience levels to foster their growth and maintain studio quality.

• Adapting to Evolving Technologies: Keeping pace with rapid advancements in lighting technology, controls, and design software.

• Client Persuasion: Convincing clients and architects of the value and impact of innovative lighting design, particularly when it involves new approaches or higher initial investment.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Leadership Skill Enhancement: Developing strategic planning, business development, and team management skills through direct experience and potential firm-provided training.

• Specialized Project Exposure: Gaining in-depth experience in complex project typologies (e.g., healthcare, scientific facilities, art installations) that offer unique design and technical challenges.

• Cross-Disciplinary Expertise: Deepening understanding of MEP, fire protection, and technology systems through ongoing collaboration with BR+A's engineering divisions.

• Industry Engagement: Opportunities to represent BR+A at industry events, conferences, and potentially contribute to professional organizations.

• Portfolio Growth: Building a robust and diverse portfolio of award-winning projects that showcase innovative and impactful lighting design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents a significant opportunity for a designer to transition into a leadership position where they can shape a studio's strategic direction, manage its growth, and impact the firm's overall success, while continuing to engage with high-level design challenges.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to developing a unique design concept from scratch for a challenging project type (e.g., a specialized research lab)." (Focus on your process: research, inspiration, iteration, technical integration, client engagement).

• "How would you balance the need for advanced technical systems with a strong, human-centric design aesthetic in a healthcare setting?" (Highlight your understanding of both technical requirements and occupant experience).

• "Imagine you need to persuade a skeptical architect to adopt a new lighting control strategy. What steps would you take, and what arguments would you present?" (Emphasize communication, evidence-based reasoning, and understanding stakeholder needs). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you most about BR+A and the Borealis Lighting Studio specifically, and how do you see yourself contributing to our growth?" (Research BR+A's projects and values; articulate your vision for the studio).

• "Describe your experience mentoring junior designers. What is your philosophy on developing talent and fostering a collaborative team environment?" (Provide concrete examples of your mentorship approach).

• "How do you ensure sustainability is integrated into your lighting design process, beyond just energy efficiency?" (Showcase your understanding of broader sustainability impacts and human well-being). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Narrative Arc: Structure your presentation to tell a compelling story about each project, highlighting the problem, your creative and technical solution, and the positive outcome.

• Process Visualization: Use sketches, diagrams, and early renderings to show your thinking process, not just polished final images. Clearly label your contributions.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, use metrics (e.g., energy savings, improved visual comfort scores, client satisfaction feedback) to demonstrate the effectiveness of your designs.

• Concise & Focused: Be mindful of time. Select 3-4 key projects that best represent your skills, leadership, and design philosophy.

• Engage Your Audience: Be prepared to answer questions and invite discussion, demonstrating your confidence and ability to articulate your design choices.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not just design skill, but also leadership potential, business acumen, and a collaborative spirit. Candidates should be ready to articulate their methodologies for design, project management, and team development.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Lighting Studio Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the ADP WorkForce Now portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to showcase projects that highlight your leadership in architectural lighting design, your process from concept to completion, and your ability to manage client relationships. Prioritize examples demonstrating your work in complex environments and your unique design sensibility.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly articulates your 8+ years of experience, specific software proficiencies (Revit, AutoCAD, AGI32, Adobe Suite), LC or CLD certification, and any business development or team leadership achievements.

• Interview Preparation: Practice presenting your portfolio, articulating your design philosophy, and preparing thoughtful answers to behavioral and technical questions, focusing on your leadership style and strategic vision for the studio.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with BR+A's project portfolio (www.brplusa.com), their core services, and their commitment to integrated design and sustainability to demonstrate your alignment with their mission.

⚠️ 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.