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Associate Designer Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

Technical Diploma in Mechanical CAD Drafting or Associate Degree in Mechanical Design Technology ... Prepares mechanical designs for power, lighting, and low voltage electrical system installations or ...

Associate degree in drafting technology, design or related fields or High School Diploma with ... Designers and constructability personnel in a multi-disciplined project team environment to resolve ...

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 ...

CAD Designer/ Drafter

Lenexa, KS

$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:

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Associate Designer information

See Kansas salary details

$17.4K

$52.2K

$78K

How much do associate designer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 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?

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.

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.

How much do associate designers make?

Associate designers typically earn between $45,000 and $65,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. In larger markets or specialized fields, salaries can be higher, and roles often require proficiency in design tools like Adobe Creative Suite and collaboration with cross-functional teams.

What does an associate designer do?

An associate designer supports the design team by creating visual concepts, sketches, and prototypes using tools like Adobe Creative Suite. They assist in developing design ideas, preparing presentations, and ensuring projects meet client or company standards, often gaining experience to advance in design roles.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,227 per year, or $25.1 per hour.

Senior Industrial Designer - OEM/Exhibits

Garmin International, Inc.

Olathe, KS • On-site

$98K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Garmin rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 161 rated electronics manufacturers


Job description

Overview
We are seeking a full-time Senior Industrial Designer - OEM / Exhibits at Garmin's U.S. headquarters in the Greater Kansas City area. In this role, you will be responsible for leading the conceptualization and development of new products, programs, and exhibit solutions and will collaborate with other designers, engineering, product managers, marketing, and sales teams of the assigned projects.
Essential Functions
  • Leads in the conceptualization and development of multiple new products, programs, and exhibits
  • Able to mentor less experienced designers through all phases of a project, guide design direction, and collaborate with project team to accomplish design deliverables and meet deadlines
  • Able to work collaboratively/professionally with leadership, clients, and project stakeholders to determine project scope, priorities, requirements, and design constraints
  • Works with design leadership and project stakeholders (engineering, marketing, etc.) in the development of the project schedule, milestones, estimates, and deliverables
  • Leverages design/fabrication experience to lead in the development of innovative concepts, compelling designs and pragmatic solutions
  • Able to prioritize tasks/assignments for multiple projects and establish process milestones
  • Able to manage project schedules, action items, and coordinate with staff to meet deadlines
  • Able to present design concepts, deliverables, and provide project status to design leadership, segment leadership or external client
  • Accepts/acts on leadership/client feedback to refine/improve designs and solutions
  • Able to guide selection of materials, colors, and design language that represents segment vision
  • Able to estimate project efforts, timing of resource needs, and execute project planning
  • Able to provide clear communication to suppliers, oversee the production of construction documents, contribute to the method of production and value engineering
  • Provides leadership at show site and meeting support as needed (travel required)
  • Provides department organizational leadership (shop, equipment, software, computer, etc.)
  • Stays current and mentors' associates on prototyping, presentation, graphics, and software

Basic Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in Industrial Design, Product Design, Engineering or related field OR an equivalent combination of education and relevant work experience
  • Minimum of 7 years of work experience performing a role substantially similar to the essential functions of this job description OR a minimum of 6 years work experience as an Industrial Designer at Garmin
  • Demonstrated strong and effective verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills
  • Must demonstrate knowledge and proficiency in the following software: SolidWorks, Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite and CorelDRAW Graphics Suite
  • Demonstrated ability to lead research efforts, present data, explain exhibit use and industry trends
  • Able to design and develop physical mock-ups, models, and exhibits (samples / portfolio)
  • Ability to complete shop tasks, fabricate medium projects, and contribute to large project efforts
  • Working knowledge of shop safety procedures and experience working with shop equipment (Saws, milling machines, routers, jointers, drill press, sanders and hand tools)
  • Working knowledge and experience with a variety of materials such as model board, wood, metal, plastics, and similar materials

Desired Qualifications
  • Environmental, display, and tradeshow design experience (portfolio examples are required)
  • Experience developing exhibit specifications that meet clients and show requirements
    Experience working with color, finish and materials relevant to current tradeshow trends and themes
  • Experience leading in the fabrication, crating, and logistical planning associated with assigned projects
  • Working knowledge of millwork construction methods and machinery (CNC experience preferred)
  • Working understanding of low voltage lighting, sound, and electrical systems

Garmin International is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran's status, age or disability.
This position is eligible for Garmin's benefit program. Details can be found here: Garmin Benefits

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