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Design Assistant Jobs in Charleston, SC (NOW HIRING)

The CAD Drafter will be an integral part of the team creating/updating Technical Data Packages; being familiar with ASME standards, Technical Data Packages, and military drawing standards desired.

The CAD Drafter will be an integral part of the team creating/updating Technical Data Packages; being familiar with ASME standards, Technical Data Packages, and military drawing standards desired.

Writes supporting documentation for procedures and technical reports; may assist in writing ... Identifies design errors, omissions, and other deficiencies, and recommends revisions, engineering ...

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Design Assistant information

See Charleston, SC salary details

$10

$23

$36

How much do design assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for design assistant in Charleston, SC is $23.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.98 and $26.78 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 Charleston, SC?

The most popular types of Design jobs in Charleston, SC are:

What are popular job titles related to Design Assistant jobs in Charleston, SC?

For Design Assistant jobs in Charleston, SC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Design Assistant jobs in Charleston, SC look for?

The top searched job categories for Design Assistant jobs in Charleston, SC are:

What cities near Charleston, SC are hiring for Design Assistant jobs?

Cities near Charleston, SC with the most Design Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Design Assistant job openings in Charleston, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,935 per year, or $23 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


SAIC rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 81 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

103rd of 226 rated it services


Job description


SAIC is seeking an Entry Level CAD Laborer to support the US Navy in Hanahan, SC. The ideal candidates will be responsible for providing design and drafting support to complete large complex assembly models and drawings.
The CAD Drafter will be an integral part of the team creating/updating Technical Data Packages; being familiar with ASME standards, Technical Data Packages, and military drawing standards desired. The Drafter / CAD Operator will coordinate frequently with the drafting team lead for current assignments, as well as coordinating with the project engineer, to meet the customer demands. The candidate will be required to occasionally travel, locally, to the customer's facility where the vehicles are located to work with the engineers and technicians to develop prototype mounting solutions. Efforts will be focused toward GFE and custom fabrication integration for military C4ISR systems.
Job Duties: (include but are not limited to)
  • Provide drafting support to complete large complex parts, assemblies, and 2D drawings. Efforts will be focused toward GFE and custom metalwork/fabrication integration for military C4I systems
  • Drafting and documentation of equipment racks, equipment mounting kits, and equipment subassemblies
  • Create detailed drawings/designs using SOLIDWORKS 3D CAD software and AutoCAD 2D for Technical Data Packages (TDP)
  • Create/modify solid models and assemblies and maintain configuration management of engineering drawings
  • Must be able to understand and create drawings based on the Engineering Drawing Standards Guide (EDSG) as well as MIL-STD-31000
  • Under general supervision, performs a variety of moderately complex tasks and uses tools to include calipers, gage tools, tape measures and other mechanical devices to aid in design, development, verification, and validation of the prototype fabrications
  • Candidate will be utilizing an advanced Configuration Management (CM) tool called "Windchill PDMLink" by PTC for storage and workflows of tasking to maintain CM

Qualifications
Education and Experience:
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • U.S. Citizen with the ability to obtain a Public Trust clearance. Active DoD clearance accepted

About Us
SAIC® is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.
We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.

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