1

Associate Designer Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Collaborate closely with Designers, Project Managers, and Field personnel to create effective ... Associate degree or certificate in Architectural Drafting, Architectural Technology, CAD Drafting ...

Designer - Bridge Design

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$59K - $89K/yr

From designing innovative solutions to building stronger communities, we approach every project ... Associates or Bachelor's degree in a Technical discipline preferred. * Experience: No previous ...

Collaborate closely with Designers, Project Managers, and Field personnel to create effective ... Associate degree or certificate in Architectural Drafting, Architectural Technology, CAD Drafting ...

Collaborate closely with Designers, Project Managers, and Field personnel to create effective ... Associate degree or certificate in Architectural Drafting, Architectural Technology, CAD Drafting ...

Stratus ® designs spaces, systems, and solutions that perform, endure, and make an impact ... Associate's degree or certification in CAD, BIM, Mechanical Engineering Technology, or a related ...

Summary Our Cary, NC office is seeking a motivated and collaborative Revit Designer to support our ... Associate's degree, Bachelor's degree, or certification in, Engineering, Drafting, or a related ...

The Mechanical Designer I performs their job functions under the supervision of a project ... Applicable Associate degree or technical trade school certification * 0 to 3 years of experience ...

The Mechanical Designer I performs their job functions under the supervision of a project ... Applicable Associate degree or technical trade school certification * 0 to 3 years of experience ...

Substation Designer

Cary, NC · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Substation Designer to join our team at K&A ... A 2 year associates degree in engineering technology or drafting is preferred * Proficient with ...

We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Substation Designer to join our team at K&A ... A 2 year associates degree in engineering technology or drafting is preferred * Proficient with ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Associate Designer information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$19K

$56.9K

$85.1K

How much do associate designer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate designer in Raleigh, NC is $56,922.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,100.00 and $66,100.00 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Designer jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Designer jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Designer jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Associate Designer jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Designer jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Designer jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Associate Designer jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Associate Designer job openings:
Architectural Designer

Architectural Designer

Precision Walls

Raleigh, NC • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Advanced Exterior Systems, a local Architectural cladding design and fabrication firm, is seeking a qualified individual with experience in architectural drafting and detailing. This job is an in person role located in Raleigh, NC. Not a remote position.

Remote/Hybrid locations: Charlotte, NC, Richmond, VA, and Nashville, TN.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Create and revise detailed architectural and cladding system drawings using CAD (e.g. AutoCAD) and other drafting tools.
  • Collaborate closely with Designers, Project Managers, and Field personnel to create effective integrated designs.
  • Extensive working knowledge of Architectural drafting principles.
  • Experience reading and interpreting architectural and/or structural plans & specs.
  • Ability to communicate in a professional manner over phone and through email.
  • Ability to work in a production oriented atmosphere.
  • Friendly, professional, outgoing, team member mindset.

Qualifications and Experience

  • Associate degree or certificate in Architectural Drafting, Architectural Technology, CAD Drafting, or related field, or equivalent drafting experience.
  • Two years of experience in the CAD Drafting industry.
  • Use CAD software (AutoCAD, Revit, or similar) to produce 2D and 3D drawings.
  • Strong attention detail and accuracy.

Benefits:

  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Retirement Plans
    • 401K Savings Plan
    • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
  • Health Plan
  • Dental Plan
  • Vision Plan
  • Flexible Expending Account for healthcare
  • Long and Short Term Disability
  • Life Insurance
  • Advancement and growth opportunities
  • Performance bonuses (Incentive program)

Employment with Advanced Exterior Systems is contingent upon successful completion of a pre-employment background check and drug screening. Each situation is reviewed individually in accordance with company policy.

100% Employee Owned

As an employee-owned company, we are passionate and dedicated to working like owners and as a team to enhance the success of the company. We are proud to be able to share in the benefits of our success through our ESOP program.

Advanced Exterior Systems is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome all qualified applicants to apply - regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

Military Friendly Employer
We value the knowledge, skills and abilities you acquired in the military. Whether you are an active serve member transitioning or a military spouse, we want you to consider a rewarding career.