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Associate Designer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Gorman's

Interior Designer/Sales Associate

Troy, MI · On-site

$13.25 - $18/hr

Gorman's one of America's premier quality home furnishing companies, has an immediate opening for Full time Interior Designer/Sales Associate position to join our team! Why work for Gorman's Gorman ...

Kleinfelder Inc

Pipeline Designer

Detroit, MI · On-site

In this role, the Pipeline Designer will develop drawings and exhibits for design, permitting, land ... Associate degree, CAD Certification * Minimum 4 years' relevant experience * Proficiency in current ...

Kleinfelder Inc

Pipeline Designer

Detroit, MI

In this role, the Pipeline Designer will develop drawings and exhibits for design, permitting, land ... Associate degree, CAD Certification * Minimum 4 years' relevant experience * Proficiency in current ...

Kleinfelder Inc

Pipeline Designer

Detroit, MI · On-site

In this role, the Pipeline Designer will develop drawings and exhibits for design, permitting, land ... Associate degree, CAD Certification * Minimum 4 years' relevant experience * Proficiency in current ...

Pretium Packaging

Concept Designer

Birmingham, MI · On-site

$48K - $60K/hr

Plastics Packaging Concept Designer I (Level 1) Location: Hybrid: Birmingham, MI Department ... Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Industrial Design, Graphic Design, or related field * 0-2 years ...

ROUSH

Tooling Designer

Farmington, MI · On-site

The Tooling Designer will work with multiple internal and external customers to create injection ... Associates degree or technical certification in a related field If you share our passion for ...

Pretium Packaging

Concept Designer

Birmingham, MI · On-site

Plastics Packaging Concept Designer I (Level 1) Location: Hybrid: Birmingham, MI Department ... Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Industrial Design, Graphic Design, or related field * 0-2 years ...

Actalent

Designer

Benton Harbor, MI

$30 - $38/hr

Job Title: Product Designer We are seeking a talented Product Designer for a minimum 3-month ... Associates Degree in design/CAD or certificate and 3+ years of experience * Proficient in ...

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All JobsAssociate Designer JobsAssociate Designer Jobs in Michigan

Associate Designer information

See Michigan salary details

$17K

$51K

$76.3K

How much do associate designer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate designer in Michigan is $51,041.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,300.00 and $59,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a design associate?

A design associate is a professional who supports the design team by assisting with project development, creating visual concepts, and using tools like Adobe Creative Suite or CAD software. They often collaborate with senior designers and may need a relevant degree or portfolio to qualify for the role.

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.

Which designer is highly paid?

Senior and lead designers, especially those with specialized skills in user experience (UX), user interface (UI), or graphic design, tend to earn the highest salaries in the design field. Experience, industry, location, and proficiency with design tools like Adobe Creative Suite or Figma also influence compensation levels.

Is an associate designer the same as a junior designer?

An associate designer is often an entry-level or early-career role that involves supporting senior designers and developing foundational skills. A junior designer typically has less experience and works under supervision, focusing on learning design processes and tools like Adobe Creative Suite. While roles can vary by company, both positions are considered beginner-level and may have overlapping responsibilities, but titles and expectations can differ across organizations.

What does an Associate Designer do?

An Associate Designer is an entry- to mid-level professional who assists in the creation and development of design projects. They typically work under the supervision of senior designers or art directors and contribute to tasks such as creating layouts, preparing design concepts, and revising drafts based on feedback. Their responsibilities can vary depending on the industry—such as fashion, graphic design, or interior design—but generally involve supporting the execution of visual or conceptual elements to meet project goals. Associate Designers collaborate with cross-functional teams and help ensure that design work aligns with brand or project standards.

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 depending on the industry and location.
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Associate Designer jobs near you
Architectural Designer

Architectural Designer

Ghafari Associates LLC

Dearborn, MI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Job Description:
General Summary:
The Architectural Designer's primary role will be to develop project concepts into visually appealing and functional architectural designs. Working closely with the project team, the Architectural Designer contributes to the development of innovative and sustainable design solutions. This position requires a blend of creativity, technical proficiency, and a keen understanding of architectural design principles. The Architectural Designer shall also utilize the use of new design technologies including but not limited to: generative design, AI design, Augmented/Virtual Reality, and other emerging design tools.
Essential Job Functions:
  • Collaborate with project stakeholders to understand design requirements and objectives.
  • Participate and/or lead project programming to set project goals and scope of work.
  • Generate creative and innovative design concepts that align with project goals.
  • Produce sketches, mood boards, and other visual representations to communicate design ideas.
  • Utilize advanced 3D modeling software and/or technologies to create detailed and realistic representations of architectural designs.
  • Develop renderings and visualizations to effectively communicate design intent to clients and project stakeholders.
  • Participate in client presentations and meetings to articulate design concepts and respond to feedback.
  • Iterate design concepts based on feedback and project requirements.
  • Research and prepare submissions for Site Plan Approvals, including coordination with team members as lead or team member to others lead.
  • Collaborate with architects, engineers, and other professionals to integrate various design elements seamlessly into projects.
  • Collaborate with the project team to produce construction documents and assist in the permitting process as needed.
  • Assist in the preparation of detailed architectural drawings during the Design Development and Construction Document phases of projects, which may vary by project.
  • Assist in providing information on products, materials, and/or details to aid in the preparation of project specifications.
  • Ensure that designs comply with relevant building codes, regulations, and industry standards.
  • Stay informed about the latest trends, materials, and construction techniques in the field of design and architecture.
  • Research and recommend appropriate materials and finishes for projects.
  • Work closely with suppliers and manufacturers to source materials and product samples during the design phase for client approval.
  • Foster effective communication within the project team and with clients.
  • Assist project managers with budgeting design time, tracking delivery dates, and assisting in budget validations as required.
  • Contribute to the resolution of design-related issues during pre-construction/construction.
  • Assist in the construction administration of projects concerning design-related items.
  • Perform other design-related duties as assigned.

Qualifications
Education/Certifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Architecture required
  • Licensed as an Architect, not required but preferred
  • LEED Certification, not required but preferred
  • WELL Certification, not required but preferred

Experience:
  • 5+ years of experience in an Architectural Designer role
  • Experience in master planning, site planning, program development, conceptual design and 3D design visualization required

Skills/Competencies:
  • Proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, SketchUP, Enscape, Rhino, Dynamo, Photoshop, InDesign, PowerPoint, Bluebeam Review and MS Office products
  • Knowledge of AI Design/Visualization programs
  • Familiar with BIM360/Autodesk ACC
  • Knowledge of current building codes and zoning codes and how to apply them to projects
  • Knowledge of industry vendors (materials, finishes, furnishings and equipment)
  • Strong visual, verbal and written communication skills
  • Strong attention to design details

Since 1982, Ghafari Associates has taken a personal approach to highly technical projects in complex markets including: aviation, manufacturing, healthcare, retail, hospitality, K-12 and higher education. As a global team of engineers, architects, process designers, and consultants we blend insight with technological innovation helping clients elevate their efficiency, sustainability, and impact.
Continuously rated a Top Workplace to Work, Crain's Cool Place to Work, and a Best and Brightest company to work for in the US, Ghafari has made a name for itself through our culture, employee benefits, and portfolio of projects.
Over a quarter of Ghafari employees have diverse identities that are championed by our growing approach to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Ghafari supports hybrid and in-office work environments.
Through career mapping, Ghafari employees are encouraged to seek licensure, coached for knowledge growth, and provided opportunities for management and mentorship roles if interested. Our robust internship program recognizes undergraduate and graduate students from across the world, having an over 90% success rate of hiring our interns after graduation.
Join our team and work on forward-thinking projects all around the world. Ghafari's global reach creates an environment where individuals can build professional relationships while building sustainable and cutting-edge facilities. Are you ready to take that leap? Apply Now!
Ghafari Associates, LLC is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities in the employment application process. If you need an accommodation due to a disability in order to use our online system to apply for a position at Ghafari Associates, LLC, you may apply for positions in the following ways:
Connect to our job portal (https://ghafari.jobs)
By fax at 313.436.8624; Attn: Human Resources
By mail at 17101 Michigan Avenue, Dearborn, MI 48126; Attn: Human Resources
In person at 17101 Michigan Avenue, Dearborn, MI 48126.
By email at hr@ghafari.com
If there are any questions or additional accommodations that are required, please contact 313.441.3000 for assistance.
It is Ghafari Associates, LLC's policy not to discriminate in its employment and personnel practices because of a person's race, color, creed, religion, sex, national origin, age, weight, height, marital, pregnancy or parental status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service, status as a qualified individual with a disability or a protected veteran, or any other classification protected by federal, state or local law or ordinance.

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