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Design Assistant Jobs in Cambridge, MA (NOW HIRING)

52Launch

Industrial Design Intern

Framingham, MA · On-site

$15/hr

Material Acquisitions: brainstorm and acquire proper materials necessary for project and product development * 3D CAD: assist in building 3D CAD models (SolidWorks or Rhino) for visual evaluation and ...

eth

Interior Design Sales Professional

Natick, MA

The Design Consultant works closely with the customer to create individualized design solutions to sell Ethan Allen products and services. The designs include space planning, fabric coordination ...

eth

Interior Design Sales Professional

Natick, MA · On-site

The Design Consultant works closely with the customer to create individualized design solutions to sell Ethan Allen products and services. The designs include space planning, fabric coordination ...

eth

Interior Design Sales Professional

Natick, MA · On-site

The Design Consultant works closely with the customer to create individualized design solutions to sell Ethan Allen products and services. The designs include space planning, fabric coordination ...

eth

Interior Design Sales Professional

Natick, MA · On-site

The Design Consultant works closely with the customer to create individualized design solutions to sell Ethan Allen products and services. The designs include space planning, fabric coordination ...

eth

Interior Design Sales Professional

Natick, MA · On-site

The Design Consultant works closely with the customer to create individualized design solutions to sell Ethan Allen products and services. The designs include space planning, fabric coordination ...

Dream Kitchens & Baths By Nelson, Inc

Be Seen First

Kitchen & Bath Designer

Burlington, MA · On-site

$25 - $32/hr

Design functional and aesthetically pleasing kitchens and bathrooms * Create detailed floor plans, elevations, and cabinetry layouts using 20/20 Design * Assist clients with selections of cabinetry ...

OMNI STAFFING

Electrical Estimator

Canton, MA · On-site

$95 - $125/hr

Provide accurate cost models for design-build and design-assist projects. * Work closely with plumbing, HVAC, and fire protection estimating teams to ensure complete and coordinated proposals.

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Design Assistant information

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How much do design assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for design assistant in Cambridge, MA is $26.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.01 and $31.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a design assistant?

Design Assistants are professionals who support designers or design teams in various creative industries, such as fashion, interior, graphic, or product design. Their responsibilities typically include assisting with research, organizing materials, preparing presentations, managing schedules, and helping with the execution of design projects. Design Assistants play a crucial role in ensuring that projects run smoothly and efficiently by handling administrative and creative tasks. They often collaborate closely with senior designers, clients, and vendors to bring creative concepts to life.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a design assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Design Assistant, you need a solid grasp of design principles, proficiency in graphic design or interior design basics, and a relevant educational background such as a degree or diploma in design. Familiarity with industry-standard software like Adobe Creative Suite, AutoCAD, or SketchUp is commonly required. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate clearly help you stand out in supporting senior designers and collaborating with clients. These competencies ensure efficient workflow, high-quality deliverables, and effective teamwork in fast-paced design environments.

What are some common challenges design assistants face when collaborating with senior designers and clients?

Design Assistants often navigate balancing creative input with following the vision set by senior designers and clients. Communication is key, as misunderstandings can arise regarding project expectations, deadlines, or feedback. Additionally, adapting to shifting priorities and managing multiple tasks simultaneously can be challenging, but these experiences help develop multitasking and problem-solving skills. Building strong relationships with team members and clients fosters a supportive work environment and facilitates professional growth.

What is the difference between Design Assistant vs Graphic Designer?

AspectDesign AssistantGraphic Designer
CredentialsAssociate's degree or related certificationBachelor's degree in Graphic Design or related field
Work EnvironmentSupportive role in design teams, often in studios or corporate settingsIndependent or team-based projects, creative agencies, or in-house departments
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with design tasks, preparing materials, organizing projectsCreating visual concepts, designing layouts, producing final artwork

While both roles involve visual design, a Design Assistant primarily supports senior designers by handling preparatory and organizational tasks. A Graphic Designer takes on the core creative responsibilities, producing original designs and visual content. The roles often overlap in work environment and credentials, but differ in scope and level of creative independence.

How do you become a design assistant?

To become a design assistant, candidates typically need a relevant associate's or bachelor's degree in design, art, or a related field. Gaining proficiency in design software such as Adobe Creative Suite and building a strong portfolio are important steps, along with relevant internship or work experience. Strong communication skills and attention to detail are also valuable in this role.

What skills do you need to be a design assistant?

A design assistant needs strong creativity, attention to detail, and proficiency in design software such as Adobe Creative Suite. Good communication skills, the ability to work collaboratively, and basic knowledge of design principles are also important for supporting creative projects effectively.

What are the most commonly searched types of Design jobs in Cambridge, MA?

The most popular types of Design jobs in Cambridge, MA are:

What are popular job titles related to Design Assistant jobs in Cambridge, MA?

For Design Assistant jobs in Cambridge, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Design Assistant jobs in Cambridge, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Design Assistant jobs in Cambridge, MA are:

What cities near Cambridge, MA are hiring for Design Assistant jobs?

Cities near Cambridge, MA with the most Design Assistant job openings:

Design Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Design Assistant job openings in Cambridge, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,985 per year, or $26.9 per hour.

Architecture - Design Professional

HOK Group, Inc.

Boston, MA • On-site

$65 - $90/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

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Job description

Posted Thursday, May 21, 2026 at 4:00 AM

HOK marked its 70th anniversary in 2025, and we continue to be a collective of future‑forward thinkers and designers committed to tackling the critical challenges of our time. Our mission is simple yet powerful: improve lives, serve our clients, and heal the planet. At HOK, design excellence thrives at the intersection of art and science-where creativity meets purpose.

HOK's Boston office is seeking Design Professionals to join our growing Transportation practice. Under close supervision, this individual will perform architectural assignments and will be responsible for working with the project team to assist overall effort of completing various project phases.

Application must include both resume and portfolio (or portfolio link).

RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Prepares and modifies architectural documents, elevations, sections, details, etc. as directed by others utilizing Building Information Modeling (BIM).
  • Develops solutions to technical and design problems following established standards.
  • Incorporates Integrated Sustainable Design solutions into projects.
  • With direction from the project designer or more senior design professionals, develops, modifies, and/or reviews drawings ensuring the incorporation of design intent.
  • Works closely with design team and assists to complete projects on aggressive schedules.
  • Assist in developing project scope, plan, and services and during the contract process. Translates planning concepts into comprehensible terms for clients, designers and project team members.
  • Develops a comprehensive understanding of clients’ program requirements and standards and policies for completion.
  • Prepares 2D and 3D presentation/design drawings.
  • Builds models for client/project team review.
  • Compiles data and performs elementary design computations.
  • Performs product research; assists project designers and project architects with materials selection and system research.
  • Assures HOK document standards are met and archives documents appropriately.
  • May assist team in construction administration document management.
  • May mentor and direct the work of intern staff.
  • Takes personal responsibility for fostering a green workplace through sustainable work practices.
  • Fosters a commitment to external and internal client service.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
  • Bachelor’s degree in architecture required
  • 0 to 3 years’ experience; or equivalent in appropriate education and experience required.
  • LEED accreditation or Green Associate preferred.

HOK invests in its people and communities, supporting both personal and professional growth through every stage of life. At HOK you’ll have a hybrid work environment , 10 paid holidays (including 2 floating holidays ) and a minimum of 4 weeks of paid time off with a cash out option. HOK offers comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, free mental wellness resources, life and AD&D coverage and short and long‑term disability benefits. HOK supports your growing family by offering 4 weeks of paid parental leave and fertility coverage. HOK helps to fund your future financial needs with matching contributions to our 401(K) plan which includes a well‑rounded investment menu as well as free guidance on retirement planning.

Wherever you are in your career, HOK provides opportunities to learn, develop and utilize your skills. Continued learning is promoted through financial support and study prep for licensure exams, CEU credit opportunities, mentorship programs, and paid professional memberships. To learn more about designing your career with HOK, explore our current job openings.

HOK is an EOE, including disability/vets.

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