1

Associate Designer Jobs in Hackensack, NJ (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Showing results 41-60

Associate Designer information

See Hackensack, NJ salary details

$21.3K

$63.9K

$95.4K

How much do associate designer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate designer in Hackensack, NJ is $63,869.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,900.00 and $74,200.00 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.

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 working under the supervision of senior designers.

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. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with specialized skills or in high-demand markets can earn more. Compensation often includes benefits such as health insurance and paid time off.

What are the most commonly searched types of Designer jobs in Hackensack, NJ?

The most popular types of Designer jobs in Hackensack, NJ are:

What are popular job titles related to Associate Designer jobs in Hackensack, NJ?

For Associate Designer jobs in Hackensack, NJ, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Associate Designer jobs in Hackensack, NJ look for?

The top searched job categories for Associate Designer jobs in Hackensack, NJ are:

What cities near Hackensack, NJ are hiring for Associate Designer jobs?

Cities near Hackensack, NJ with the most Associate Designer job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Designer job openings in Hackensack, NJ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 60% In-person, 20% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,869 per year, or $30.7 per hour.

Associate Designer - Madewell Handbags

Madewell

New York, NY • On-site

$64K - $79K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Madewell rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 32 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 104 rated fashion retailers


Job description

Our Story
At Madewell, we believe that great style starts with great design. Since 2006, we've been creating premium denim and foundational wardrobe pieces for men and women that balance quality, authenticity, and versatility. From iconic jeans perfected by denim experts to the essential tee, the most versatile shoe, and the timeless leather bag-if it's Madewell, it's made well.
Our dedication to Diversity, Equity, Belonging & Sustainability has been celebrated with industry recognition, reflecting our commitment to fostering an inclusive and sustainable workplace.
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, organizational skills, and the ability to translate design vision into compelling, commercially viable products while meeting key development milestones.
Key Responsibilities
  • Partner closely with Sr. Designer to develop concepts, silhouette direction, materials, and color stories for seasonal handbag assortments.
  • Create and maintain professional presentation boards including sketches, inspiration imagery, materials, hardware, and construction details.
  • Research and interpret seasonal trends, themes, and detail direction relevant to handbags and accessories.
  • Organize and manage material, color, and hardware libraries; prepare samples and standards for milestone meetings.
  • Execute and maintain seasonal line lists, ensuring alignment with the product development calendar and key deadlines.
  • Collaborate with Technical Design to ensure accuracy of specifications from initial concept through technical design packages.
  • Participate in fittings, reviews, and product walkthroughs with the Designer or Design Director.
  • Work cross-functionally with Production to maintain design intent throughout the development and production process.
  • Track development progress and proactively follow up on outstanding items to ensure timely execution.
Qualifications
  • 2-4 years of design experience, preferably in handbags or accessories
  • Bachelor's degree in Fashion Design or related field
  • Strong aesthetic sensibility with a high level of creativity and attention to detail
  • Excellent presentation and visual communication skills
  • Strong illustration and sketching abilities (hand and digital)
  • Knowledge of handbag construction, materials, hardware, and trims
  • Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Proactive, detail-oriented, and able to meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
  • Collaborative team player with strong follow-through
  • Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop; working knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel

#LI-ED1
We welcome you to apply, even if you don't check all the boxes. Our passion is scouting life-long learners who are driven by curiosity, and who feel connected to our brands and share our desire to make an impact. We're always seeking bright new talent who leverage their unique experiences to discover, grow and evolve with our teams.
Benefits + Perks
  • Health & Well-being - Eligible associates and family members receive medical, dental, prescription and vision insurance, family planning (fertility, adoption & surrogacy support), fitness discounts, medical travel and more.
  • Associate Discount - We love our products just as much as you do! That's why we offer a great associate discount across all of our brands (J.Crew, J.Crew Factory, and Madewell).
  • Summer Fridays - In addition to our hybrid work model, we also close our office at 1:00 PM every Friday during the Summer months.
  • Community Impact - We support the communities where we live and work through our philanthropic efforts and the J.Crew Cares Program.
  • Winter Break - In addition to our PTO package, J.Crew Group offers a winter break at the end of December to eligible full-time associates at the Home Office to provide time to refresh and recharge.

Note: Availability of these benefits and perks may be subject to work location & employment type and may have certain eligibility requirements.
Salary Range: $64,200.00 - $79,600.00
At J.Crew Group (JCG) we aim to pay competitively for our company's size and industry. The base salary offered will take into account internal equity and may vary depending on the candidate's geographic region of work premises, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors. The base salary is just one component of J.Crew Group's competitive total rewards strategy that also includes the opportunity for bonus, competitive benefits and perks.
One of our core focuses here at JCG is creating a community and culture that builds belonging. We are deeply committed to our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion efforts, and we warmly welcome job applicants of all backgrounds.
JCG is proud to affirmatively provide equal opportunity to all associates and qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, national origin or citizenship, age, sex, marital status, ancestry, legally protected physical or mental disability, veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation or any other basis protected under applicable law.

What Madewell employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom