Lighting Practice Leader Clark Nexsen United States, Virginia, Virginia Beach Aug 13, 2026 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. Compensation for this position is $125,000.00 - $140,000.00, commensurate with experience, education and certifications. The provided range is a good faith estimate based on the requirements described within the job description. We notice that we receive a wide variety of applicants and recognize that the person selected may be less experienced or more experienced. If so, the actual salary range may vary from the estimate provided. General responsibilities include but are not limited to the following: 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 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
Preferred Experience:
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 Working Conditions At JMT, we prioritize a healthy work/life balance and offer a flexible hybrid working schedule. The selected candidate is expected to work in a JMT office location at least three days per week or as needed to perform assigned duties. While most of our work is desk-based, there may be times when standing, walking, bending and lifting of minimal weight are required. Our office environment is comfortable, has adequate lighting and temperature, and is free from noise, dust, and other hazards. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. #LI-KW1