Principal Lighting Designer for Experiential Art Installations

Placements24; Vereeniging; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Lighting Designer for Vereeniging, Gauteng to lead lighting for large-scale experiential art installations. Translate artistic concepts into lighting, guide a multidisciplinary team, and oversee design from concept to commissioning.

The role requires 8+ years in lighting design, strong software skills (Vectorworks, AutoCAD, Dialux), DMX/Art-Net knowledge, budget and schedule oversight, and willingness to travel to project sites.

Qualifications

• Minimum 8 years as a Lighting Designer with a strong portfolio in art installations or experiential spaces.
• Proven ability to lead complex lighting projects from concept to on-site completion.
• Strong knowledge of DMX/Art-Net, color theory, and control systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design of lighting for large-scale experiential art installations from concept to commissioning.
• Collaborate with creative directors, artists, and technical teams to align lighting with artistic intent.
• Develop lighting plans, fixture selection, power, control programming, and cue sequencing.
• Oversee procurement, installation, and commissioning of lighting equipment.
• Conduct on-site tests and programming to achieve desired aesthetics and function.
• Manage budgets, timelines, and resources; ensure safety standards are met.

Skills

Lighting leadership

Lighting software

DMX control

Color theory

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Lighting Design or related

Tools

Vectorworks

AutoCAD

Dialux

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a renowned collective specializing in the creation of large-scale, interactive art installations that captivate and inspire audiences. They are seeking a Principal Lighting Designer with an exceptional artistic vision and technical expertise to conceptualize and execute the lighting schemes for their upcoming projects in Vereeniging, Gauteng. This role requires an individual who can translate abstract artistic concepts into breathtaking visual realities, manipulating light to evoke emotion, guide perception, and enhance the overall immersive experience. You will work at the forefront of experiential design, collaborating with a multidisciplinary team of artists, engineers, and fabricators to bring ambitious visions to life. This is a contract position with the potential for extension based on project needs and performance, offering a unique opportunity to leave a lasting artistic mark.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization and design of all lighting elements for experiential art installations, from initial sketches to final implementation.
• Collaborate closely with the creative director, artists, and technical team to ensure lighting design aligns with the overarching artistic intent.
• Develop detailed lighting plans, including fixture selection, power distribution, control system programming, and cue sequencing.
• Oversee the procurement, installation, and commissioning of all lighting equipment.
• Conduct on-site lighting tests, adjustments, and programming to achieve the desired aesthetic and functional outcomes.
• Manage lighting budgets, timelines, and resource allocation effectively.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant safety regulations and technical standards for lighting installations.
• Mentor junior lighting designers and technicians, providing guidance and support throughout the project lifecycle.
• Stay updated on the latest advancements in lighting technology, control systems, and sustainable lighting practices.

Requirements

• A minimum of 8 years of experience as a professional Lighting Designer, with a significant portfolio showcasing work in art installations, theatre, architectural lighting, or similar experiential environments.
• Demonstrated experience leading complex lighting design projects from conception through execution.
• Expertise in lighting design software (e.g., Vectorworks, AutoCAD, Dialux) and rendering tools.
• In-depth knowledge of a wide range of lighting fixtures, dimming systems, and control protocols (e.g., DMX, Art-Net).
• Strong understanding of color theory, light as a medium, and its psychological impact.
• Excellent visual-spatial reasoning and problem-solving abilities.
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively with diverse creative and technical teams.
• Experience managing project budgets and schedules.
• Bachelor's degree in Lighting Design, Theatre Technology, Fine Arts, Architecture, or a related discipline, or equivalent professional experience.
• Willingness to travel to project sites as needed.

Benefits

This contract role offers a highly competitive remuneration package based on experience and project scope. You will have the opportunity to work on innovative and high-profile art installations, collaborating with a passionate and talented team. The role provides significant creative autonomy and the chance to push artistic boundaries in the field of experiential design. This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned lighting professional to contribute to significant cultural projects in Vereeniging, Gauteng and beyond.