1

Associate Designer Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

CAD Designer/ Drafter

Lenexa, KS · On-site

$25 - $34.75/hr

Prototype designs are printed in 3D concept visualization and multi-phase testing. Desire to learn ... Associate degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field, or equivalent experience PREFERRED:

CAD Designer/ Drafter

Lenexa, KS · On-site

$25 - $34.75/hr

Prototype designs are printed in 3D concept visualization and multi-phase testing. Desire to learn ... Associate degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field, or equivalent experience PREFERRED:

CAD Designer/ Drafter

Lenexa, KS · On-site

$25 - $34.75/hr

Prototype designs are printed in 3D concept visualization and multi-phase testing. Desire to learn ... Associate degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field, or equivalent experience PREFERRED:

Apply Early

CAD Designer

Kansas City, KS · On-site

$25.50 - $35.25/hr

Associate degree or higher in Mechanical Design, CAD Technology, Mechanical Engineering, or related field. * Minimum 7+ years of product design/CAD experience * Strong proficiency in Autodesk ...

Apply Early

GAI Consultant's Inc. is seeking a Civil Designer 3 to join the team in any of our offices. You ... Associate Degree from an accredited Technical School or equivalent experience. Certification ...

We're in search of a Senior RCDD Designer, someone who can blend expertise and creativity to ... Associate or Bachelor's degree in Drafting and Design preferred. * 6+ years of CAD/BIM experience ...

Apply Early

Create designs in 2D and 3D through rendering, technical drawings, and assembled samples * Designs ... Associate degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field, or equivalent experience PREFERRED:

Apply Early

We develop leaders and empower our associates to use their skills and talents to positively impact ... At CESO, a Mechanical Staff Designer II is proficient in basic engineering practices which helps ...

We develop leaders and empower our associates to use their skills and talents to positively impact ... At CESO, a Mechanical Staff Designer II is proficient in basic engineering practices which helps ...

Apply Early

next page

Showing results 1-20

Associate Designer information

See Kansas salary details

$17.4K

$52.2K

$78K

How much do associate designer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate designer in Kansas is $52,227.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,300.00 and $60,600.00 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 Kansas? The most popular types of Designer jobs in Kansas are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Designer jobs in Kansas? For Associate Designer jobs in Kansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Designer jobs in Kansas look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Designer jobs in Kansas are:
What cities in Kansas are hiring for Associate Designer jobs? Cities in Kansas with the most Associate Designer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Designer jobs in KS? For Associate Designer jobs in KS, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Associate Designer job openings in Kansas as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 23% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,227 per year, or $25.1 per hour.
Substation Physical Designer

Substation Physical Designer

GAI Consultants

Overland Park, KS • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

GAI Consultants is seeking a Designer for Substation Physical Design that will perform physical design related tasks and technical guidance/training/mentoring of lower-level CAD staff. These projects range from simple AutoCAD Red-line corrections to integrated 3D model designs. The successful candidate will work on various substation engineering projects including detailed design for high voltage substation projects from 12kV through 500kV. Thrive in GAI's corporate culture that empowers employee advancement with support for career and professional development and engages with staff to build mutual trust and respect and consideration for diverse perspectives, people, experiences, and ideas. We value work-life balance and offer flexibility - this position can be performed in a hybrid or fully remote capacity. #Hybrid, #Remote, #INDHP,
Job Duties:
  • Performs physical design for projects with minimal input.
  • Creates detailed design documentation.
  • Ensures drawings meet project design goals.
  • Ensures drawings are high quality and are checked per GAI's quality management system.
  • Suggests improvement to the project, based on initial design.
  • Performs work under minimal supervision.
  • Handles complex issues and problems and refers only the most complex issues to higher-level staff.
  • Possesses comprehensive knowledge of AutoCAD and 3D Computer Modeling.
  • Provides leadership, coaching, onboarding, and/or mentoring to a subordinate group when required.
  • May act as a lead or first-level supervisor.
  • Must be flexible to handle shifting deadlines and scope changes.
  • Must have resource management skills and the ability to identify project barriers and mitigate them without schedule impacts.
  • Must be able to manage and prioritize multiple projects simultaneously and be able to work effectively under the pressure of deadlines and unexpected developments.
  • Ability to work extended hours or after hours when required.
  • 3D design experience is preferred.

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to work indoors in professional office settings.
  • Ability to sit for extended periods while performing computer-based tasks.
  • Frequent use of hands and fingers for typing, writing, and handling office equipment.
  • Visual acuity to read printed materials, digital screens, detailed documents, and perform detailed work.
  • Occasional standing, walking, bending, or reaching within the office environment. Ability to move between workstations and attend in-person meetings.
  • Ability to lift and carry office materials or equipment weighing up to 10-20 pounds, with or without assistance.
  • Adequate hearing to participate in conversations, phone calls, and virtual meetings.
  • Ability to travel for meetings, training, or business purposes.

General Characteristics
  • Strives to become proficient in aspects of the software. Seeks to advance his or her knowledge of project design development

Minimum Years of Experience
  • 5-10+ Years of Experience

Education
  • Associate Degree from an accredited Technical School or equivalent experience

Technical Responsibilities
  • Performs and guides others on deliverables with focus on adherence to CAD standards, software utilization and data management procedures; and ability to independently perform analyses

Project and Task Management
  • Responsible for personal task management and adherence to deadlines and scope

Management Responsibility
  • Provides minimal oversight and mentoring to lower-level CAD Operators
  • Close supervision for difficult projects

Communication Skills
  • Possess basic effective oral and written communication skills. Interacts with Project Team

Why GAI?
At GAI, exceptional people have an exceptional place to work, grow, lead, and achieve. Explore an array of opportunities in locations across the U.S. and join accomplished colleagues in tackling challenging projects for a range of markets. Enjoy comprehensive benefits and feel good about being part of a collaborative team that's committed to supporting the communities we serve. Join GAI and distinguish yourself in a company poised for unlimited growth.
Benefits To Working at GAI Include:
  • Competitive salary - GAI is committed to paying market-based salaries
  • Comprehensive benefits package including medical, vision, dental, company paid Long Term Disability, and Short-Term Disability (benefits start within 30 days of hire)
  • New paid Maternity/Paternity/Adoption program
  • Generous Paid Time Off and 7 paid holidays
  • 401k company match
  • Tuition Reimbursement

#INDHP
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

GAI Consultants logo

About GAI Consultants

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

GAI Consultants is an employee-owned corporation offering comprehensive engineering, planning, and environmental consulting services to diverse industry sectors, located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in the United States. The company operates in the field of engineering consulting and provides sustainable and economically-viable solutions to clients ranging from bridge design, community planning, to industrial facilities, ecological studies, and more. GAI Consultants was founded in 1958 and, over more than six decades, has grown significantly with a strong commitment to advancing clients' projects and contributing to community development. The firm operates on the core values of integrity, client satisfaction, quality, and workforce development, all of which raises the bar on client service and project excellence, ultimately contributing to the company’s mission, which is 'to create and deliver superior, innovative consulting solutions that enrich the lives of our people and enhance the world we live in.'

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Pittsburgh, PA, US

Year founded

1958

Social media