1

Associate Designer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Salary: $95,000+ Associate Designer The Associate Designer plays a pivotal role in supporting the firms design projects by taking ownership of defined project components while collaborating closely ...

Associate Designer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

The Associate Designer will utilize his or her strong acumen for fashion to create and interpret concepts to generate a final product for a specific brand. He or she will collaborate with different ...

Our client, a private label apparel company based in Downtown Los Angeles, is looking for an Associate Designer to join their growing team. This is a full-time, on-site role. This is a great ...

Associate Designer

Pasadena, CA · Hybrid

$85K - $100K/yr

The Associate Designer will play a critical role in maintaining organized project documentation, supporting the upkeep of design resources, and assisting with executional tasks that enable A&D and ...

Associate Designer

Cypress, CA · On-site

$72K - $73K/yr

The Associate Designer, in partnership with the cross-functional team (Pre-production, Production, Graphics, etc.) assists the Designer and Director directly to execute product. They research ...

The Associate Designer will coordinate, under the direction of the Designer, the execution of garments in the Johnny Was line. They will also collaborate with cross - functional teams such as sewing ...

The Associate Designer is responsible for assisting Designers in the following menswear categories: polos, wovens, bottoms, jackets, sweaters, t-shirts, hats, footwear, accessories and more. As well ...

The Associate Designer will coordinate, under the direction of the Designer, the execution of garments in the Johnny Was line. They will also collaborate with cross - functional teams such as sewing ...

Founded in 2000, FAM Brands designs, manufactures, and sells men's and women's sportswear and active wear apparel to major retailers, big box stores, and specialty boutiques across the country and ...

Associate Designer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$32 - $42/hr

Founded in 2000, FAM Brands designs, manufactures, and sells men's and women's sportswear and active wear apparel to major retailers, big box stores, and specialty boutiques across the country and ...

Founded in 1978 in San Francisco, we continue to evolve our heritage of exploration through thoughtfully designed apparel and accessories that blend timeless style with exceptional craftsmanship. Our ...

About the Role In this role, you will work in an energizing, inclusive, and creative environment focused on concepting and creating sustainable product that exceeds customers' expectations. Your goal ...

Associate Designer I

Cypress, CA · On-site

$27 - $28/hr

The Associate Designer I, in partnership with the cross-functional team (Pre-production, Production, Graphics, etc.) assists the Designer and Director to execute product. They assist with research of ...

SOME OF WHAT YOU'LL DO * Support the design process for assigned category, from concept to final product. * Maintain all style and design information in Centric PLM. * Collaborate with the sales ...

Sr. Associate Designer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

The Senior Associate Designer for the Denim segment will utilize their acumen for fashion to create and interpret concepts to generate a final product. This is a permanent full time role for a ...

We're looking for an imaginative, trend-savvy Associate Designer in our Hardlines group to help bring our characters to life through products that delight fans of all ages. If you're equal parts ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Associate Designer information

See California salary details

$19.2K

$57.8K

$86.4K

How much do associate designer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate designer in California is $57,794.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,900.00 and $67,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is an Associate Designer?

An associate designer is responsible for assisting the lead designer or art director with the production and design of creative projects. Associate designers can work in a variety of industries, include fashion, graphic design, and interior design. As an associate designer, your job duties vary significantly by industry, but they generally involve researching trends, communicating with clients, and procuring materials necessary for designing the project. Regarding academic qualifications, you need a bachelor’s degree in fine arts or a major related to the specific industry in which you choose to work. Some employers may require previous experience or a portfolio that proves your design skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Associate Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Designer, you generally need a strong foundation in design principles, proficiency with design software (such as Adobe Creative Suite), and a relevant degree or portfolio showcasing your work. Familiarity with tools like Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, and sometimes prototyping platforms like Figma or Sketch is often required. Strong attention to detail, creativity, and effective communication skills help you excel in collaborative environments and respond to feedback. These skills ensure you can contribute high-quality, innovative designs that meet client or project objectives in a fast-paced industry.

Is Associate designer higher than designer?

In most organizations, an Associate Designer is considered a junior or entry-level role, while a Designer is typically a more experienced or mid-level position. The hierarchy can vary depending on the company's structure, but generally, Designers have more responsibilities and require a higher skill level than Associate Designers.

What does an associate designer do?

An associate designer supports the design team by creating visual concepts, drafting layouts, and developing prototypes using tools like Adobe Creative Suite. They assist in project development, collaborate with senior designers, and often gain experience to advance in the design field.

How does an Associate Designer typically collaborate with other team members during a project?

Associate Designers work closely with senior designers, project managers, and cross-functional teams such as marketing, engineering, or product development. Collaboration often involves participating in brainstorming sessions, contributing design ideas, and iterating on feedback from multiple stakeholders. Regular communication—via meetings, design reviews, and digital collaboration tools—is essential to ensure that design concepts align with project goals and brand guidelines. This teamwork helps Associate Designers learn from experienced colleagues and refine their skills in a supportive environment.

What is the difference between Associate Designer vs Junior Designer?

AspectAssociate DesignerJunior Designer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in design or related field; some employers may prefer internship experienceBachelor's degree in design or related field; entry-level position
Work EnvironmentCollaborates with senior designers, participates in projects, and supports design teamsAssists in design tasks, learns workflows, and gains practical experience
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across creative agencies, in-house design teams, and studiosCommon entry-level role in similar settings

Associate Designers typically have more responsibilities and may oversee parts of projects, while Junior Designers focus on learning and supporting design tasks. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds, but Associate Designers are often more experienced and involved in project execution.

What is the highest paid designer job?

The highest paid designer roles are often senior positions such as Creative Director or Design Director, especially in large corporations or specialized fields like user experience (UX) or product design. These roles typically require extensive experience, leadership skills, and proficiency with design tools, and they can earn six-figure salaries or more depending on the industry and location.

How much do associate designers make?

Associate designers typically earn between $45,000 and $65,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with specialized skills or in high-demand markets can earn more.
What are the most commonly searched types of Designer jobs in California? The most popular types of Designer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Designer jobs in California? For Associate Designer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in California are hiring for Associate Designer jobs? Cities in California with the most Associate Designer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Designer jobs in CA? For Associate Designer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Associate Designer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,794 per year, or $27.8 per hour.
Associate Designer

Associate Designer

Anyon LLC

San Francisco, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 12 hours ago


Job description

Salary: $95,000+

Associate Designer Job Description

The Associate Designer plays a pivotal role in supporting the firms design projects by taking ownership of defined project components while collaborating closely with Design leadership and staff. This position bridges the gap between Junior and Senior levels, providing both design execution and project coordination while developing leadership skills, with a heavy focus on project management. The Associate Designer is expected to manage portions of multiple projects with growing independence, support client relationships, mentor Junior Designers, and contribute to the overall quality and creativity of the firms work.


Job Functions/Responsibilities:

Client & Project Support

  • Partner with Design leadership to manage defined aspects of client projects from concept through installation.
  • Assist in client communication by preparing meeting agendas, participating in client meetings, and ensuring follow-up notes and action items are completed.
  • Contribute to proposals, design intent documentation, and project presentations.


Project Oversight & Coordination

  • Manage up to 6 full-service residential projects concurrently, from design presentation through installation (typically 824 month timelines).
  • Assist Principal, and Senior Design staff in coordination of smaller projects.
  • Serve as liaison between Principal, Senior Design team and vendors, contractors, and the internal design team to execute projects.
  • Develop, monitor, and maintain comprehensive project schedules, budgets, and progress reports.
  • Conduct site visits and oversee quality control throughout each phase of the project. Travel to multiple states may be required.
  • Coordinate with architects, contractors, and consultants to ensure design intent is executed accurately.
  • Review shop drawings, submittals, and on-site conditions to ensure quality control
  • Establish and maintain project scope, budgets, and schedules
  • Maintain clear communication with all project stakeholders, ensuring timelines and expectations are met.


Design Development & Execution

  • Develop design concepts, CAD drawings, and presentation in collaboration with Design Team
  • Develop finish schedules, specifications, and furniture/fixture selections for review, ensuring alignment with client goals and project budget ranges.
  • Maintain consistency and accuracy across all design documentation and client deliverables.
  • Ensure that all drawings and presentation documentation are current and accurately reflect design intent with support from junior designer and design assistant.
  • Maintain organized digital project files with G-Suite, physical project materials and project tasks in Asana.
  • Coordinate and attend site visits, installations, and client presentations.
  • Partner with Senior Designers and Design Director in the production of detailed architectural drawings, elevations, and construction documentation; with support from junior team members.
  • Develop millwork, lighting, and material specifications with precision and clarity
  • Communicate conceptual ideas into design solutions that reflect the Anyons aesthetic
  • Create and manage presentation materials, and client documentation.


Vendor, Purchasing & Coordination

  • Participate in all consultant coordination, escalating issues to Design Leadership as needed.
  • Review proposals and purchase orders to ensure accuracy, and expediting reports to ensure delivery schedules are in coordination with project timelines.
  • Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with artisans, suppliers, and contractors to ensure quality craftsmanship and service.


Team Collaboration & Mentorship

  • Provide day-to-day guidance to Junior Designers, assigning and reviewing their work while continually supporting their development.
  • Collaborate with the operations team to ensure deadlines and quality standards are met.

Time & Workflow Management

  • Manage time effectively across multiple projects, meeting billable targets.
  • Maintain accurate project timelines and communicate updates to Design Leadership.


On-Site & Installation Support

  • Coordinate and attend site visits and installations, managing portions of the on-site work independently in a professional manner.
  • Ability to troubleshoot minor issues, document site and installation progress with photos and accurate notes, for the project team and client to reference.


Administrative and Other Duties

  • Consistently model and integrate the firms Core Values in every aspect of work from daily interactions and decision-making to project execution and client service ensuring they are reflected in both individual performance and team collaboration.
  • Participate in design-related events, vendor presentations, or marketing initiatives as required.


Requirements:

  • Bachelors Degree in Interior Design or Interior Architecture
  • Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in high-end residential interior design
  • Advanced proficiency in AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite, Bluebeam for design with proven ability to produce refined design documentation and compelling client presentations.
  • Strong capability in interpreting architectural drawings, and developing interior finish schedules.
  • Exceptional verbal and written communication skills; able to communicate confidently and professionally with clients, vendors, contractors, and internal teams.
  • Professional demeanor: polished, intelligent, discreet, and able to represent the firm with warmth and confidence.
  • Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to balance multiple projects, deadlines, and shifting priorities.
  • Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment while independently managing assigned tasks and responsibilities.
  • Familiarity with high end showrooms, vendors, and industry resources; established trade relationships strongly preferred.
  • Adaptability and flexibility in responding to evolving project needs.
  • Ability to work in-person a majority of the time.


Physical Requirements:

  • Ability to work in a seated environment for up to or in excess of 8 hours a day.
  • Ability to work on a computer for up to or in excess of 8 hours a day.
  • Ability to use the phone for extended period of times.


Anyon LLC. is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse workforce. We provide equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, service member status, amnesty or status as a covered veteran, or any other protected classification under applicable federal, state, and local laws.