Lighting Practice Leader

Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson•Virginia Beach, VA

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

Join Clark Nexsen, a JMT Company, and become part of a dynamic, collaborative team dedicated to delivering exceptional service to our clients—while making a meaningful impact on our communities and the world through the projects we help bring to life. We are looking for a Lighting Practice Leader who will be responsible for performing, directing, and supervising all aspects of lighting design across a diverse portfolio of projects. This role will oversee the full design process, from concept through construction, and will mentor junior designers. The ideal candidate is a creative, technically skilled, and client-focused professional with a strong portfolio in architectural lighting and the built environment. This position is not eligible for employer based sponsorship with the exception of the TN visa classification.

Requirements

Graduate of an ABET-accredited program with a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architectural Engineering, Lighting Design, or related field
10+ years of professional lighting design experience
Proficiency in AGi32, Elumtools or LightStanza, Revit, AutoCAD, and Microsoft Office Suite
Deep understanding of lighting technologies, controls, and code compliance
Excellent verbal and visual communication skills
Strong portfolio demonstrating creative and technical lighting design

Nice To Haves

LC (Lighting Certified), LEED AP, or WELL AP
Experience with daylight modeling, parametric tools, or visualization software
Active involvement in IES, IALD, or similar organizations

Responsibilities

Lead lighting designer for complex projects across various markets (e.g., education, government, healthcare, workplace, civic)
Develop innovative lighting concepts that integrate with architectural intent, within a multi-disciplinary firm with a focus on Integrated Design
Perform advanced lighting calculations, daylighting analysis, and energy code compliance
Oversee preparation of drawings, lighting layouts, schedules, specifications, and control strategies
Coordinate with internal and external design teams, clients, and consultants
Conduct site visits, mock-ups, and inspections
Manage lighting project budgets and timelines
Motivate and lead the lighting studio, supervise junior staff and contribute to staff development
Develop and maintain relations with various Clark Nexsen offices to ensure lighting design quality control / quality assurance is consistent, regardless of location
Interview, hire, and terminate staff when authorized.
Evaluate the performance of department members and make recommendations for salary adjustments
Develop methods to incorporate “accountability” into individual performance
Monitor morale of the department
Develop systems of reward to recognize outstanding performance
Conduct annual department staff reviews and participate with Senior Leadership in review of staff assignments.
Review and approve department staff timesheets and expense reports