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Associate Designer Jobs in Colts Neck, NJ (NOW HIRING)

About The Role The Associate Designer is responsible for a variable amount of design, development and selection of materials, silhouettes, colors and patterns for a specific classification or area.

The Associate Designer, Handbags supports the Accessories design team across multiple handbag families, working closely with Design leadership throughout the creative process from concept through ...

Role + Purpose The Handbags Associate Designer will support the Sr. Designer in developing seasonal handbag collections from concept through production. This role requires strong creative sensibility ...

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Associate Designer information

See Colts Neck, NJ salary details

$19.7K

$59K

$88.2K

How much do associate designer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate designer in Colts Neck, NJ is $59,025.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,900.00 and $68,500.00 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 cities near Colts Neck, NJ are hiring for Associate Designer jobs? Cities near Colts Neck, NJ with the most Associate Designer job openings:
Infographic showing various Associate Designer job openings in Colts Neck, NJ as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,025 per year, or $28.4 per hour.
Associate Designer

Associate Designer

Perry Ellis International

New York, NY

$65K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Company Overview

Perry Ellis International, Inc. represents a diverse portfolio of lifestyle apparel brands. The Company, through its wholly owned subsidiaries owns and licenses nationally and with a brand portfolio of over 40 Brands domestically and internationally recognized brands including: Perry Ellis®, Original Penguin® by Munsingwear®, Laundry by Shelli Segal®, Rafaella®, Cubavera®, Ben Hogan®, Savane®, Grand Slam®, John Henry®, Manhattan®, Axist® and Farah®. The Company enhances its roster of brands by licensing trademarks from third parties, including: Nike® for swimwear, and Callaway®, PGA TOUR®, and Jack Nicklaus® for golf apparel.

SummaryPerry Ellis is seeking an Associate Designer to join the New York Women's Design team, working across our Rafaella and Laundry by Shelli Segal brands. The Associate Women's Designer will be responsible for administration and flow of product design process to include preparation of technical packages and seasonal presentation boards, understanding of PDM process, email correspondence, etc.Duties and Responsibilities
  • Sketching & Tech Pack Execution: Execute accurate flat sketches (Adobe Illustrator) and tech packs across multiple product categories within calendar timelines.
  • Market & Trend Research: Conduct store, runway, and trend research to supplement seasonal inspiration decks.
  • Commercial Ideation & Cost Engineering: Transform design inspirations into commercial, trend-right products that meet brand aesthetics and cost parameters.
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with Technical Design, Merchandising, overseas offices, and vendors to streamline communication and ensure on-time delivery.
Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities
  • Creativity: Strong eye for trend, color, silhouette, and detail. Must be able to translate inspiration into commercially viable product concepts through the lens of the customer and brand filter.
  • Technical Design Proficiency: Basic knowledge of garment construction, fabrications, trim detailing, and creating production-ready tech packs.
  • Proactive Problem Solving: A self-starter mindset with the ability to identify creative or process solutions independently.
  • Strong Communication: Excellent verbal, written, and visual communication skills, with the ability to confidently communicate with external vendors and serve as a central point of contact.
  • Software Expertise: High proficiency in Adobe Illustrator (for CADs and sketching) and Google Workspace (specifically Google Slides for presentation formatting).
Minimum Requirements
  • Experience: 2-3 years of experience in fashion design (experience working across multiple brands or high-volume corporate retail accounts is a plus).
  • Education: Bachelor's Degree in Fashion Design or a related field.
  • Portfolio: A strong portfolio demonstrating fashion sketching, comprehensive tech packs, and trend presentation decks.
  • Expertise in Adobe Illustrator

Salary offered will be at the discretion of the Company and based on a candidate's qualifications. For this position, the base salary will be between $65,000 - $75,000 annually. Other benefits associated with the position for eligible associates are listed below.

What's In It For You?

  • Comprehensive Health: Premium Medical, Dental, and Vision plans designed to keep you and your family healthy and thriving.
  • Financial Security: Secure your future with our 401(k) retirement plan (including a discretionary company match) plus company-provided Basic Life and AD&D Insurance.
  • Work-Life Balance: Take the time you need to recharge with generous Paid Time Off (PTO) and a full schedule of paid Holidays.
  • Growth & Support: We invest in your potential through our Tuition Reimbursement program for continuous learning and provide 24/7 personal support via our Member Assistance Program (MAP).
  • Team Culture: Join a community that celebrates your hard work with regular Associate Engagement Events, ranging from seasonal celebrations to on-site wellness activities.
  • Exclusive Style Perks: Look your best for less with generous Associate Clothing Discounts across all our company stores and e-commerce sites.

Legal Disclaimer:

Perry Ellis International is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or any other legally protected status. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their individual background and characteristics. We are committed to providing a workplace free of any discrimination or harassment. This commitment extends to all aspects of employment, including hiring, promotion, transfer, compensation, and termination. By submitting your application, you acknowledge and agree to the company's commitment to equal employment opportunities.

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