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Design Assistant Jobs in Lawrence, KS (NOW HIRING)

Estimator

Shawnee, KS ยท On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Experience with conceptual estimating, design-assist projects, and/or public sector/commercial bidding. * Familiarity with LEED/sustainable construction practices and cost impacts. * OSHA 10 or 30 ...

Design Engineer

Topeka, KS

$45 - $70/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

Design Engineer Position: Contract (17 months). Contractors Needed: 2 Salary: $45.00 to $70.00 an ... Produce detailed system protection and control project scopes and cost estimates to assist in multi ...

Design Sales Consultant

Topeka, KS ยท On-site

$18/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Promote the Design program & assist the Designer to achieve established Design program sales goals * Consistently execute the LaZBoy selling process and strive to provide a favorable experience to ...

Roadway Design Engineer - Kansas City, KS

Lenexa, KS ยท On-site +1

$72K - $88K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Experienced in the design of roadways for KDOT (or other DOT clients) with the ability to oversee and assist in analyses, developing calculations, develop of technical reports and preparing contract ...

We engineer and design solutions that improve the world around us. As a company, we promise to ... May assist in the preparation of project studies by completing drawings, sketching, or acquiring ...

CAD Specialist I

Kansas City, KS ยท Remote

$50K - $74K/yr

Ability to effectively communicate with Cad Manager, Project Manager or field technician when ... If you need a reasonable accommodation to assist with your job search or application for employment ...

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Design Assistant information

See Lawrence, KS salary details

$10

$23

$36

How much do design assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for design assistant in Lawrence, KS is $23.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.12 and $26.97 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 Lawrence, KS?

The most popular types of Design jobs in Lawrence, KS are:

What job categories do people searching Design Assistant jobs in Lawrence, KS look for?

The top searched job categories for Design Assistant jobs in Lawrence, KS are:

What cities near Lawrence, KS are hiring for Design Assistant jobs?

Cities near Lawrence, KS with the most Design Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Design Assistant job openings in Lawrence, KS as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,306 per year, or $23.2 per hour.

Estimator

Populus Recruiting

Shawnee, KS โ€ข On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Key Responsibilities
  • Review architectural, structural, civil, MEP, and other construction drawings, specifications, and addenda to fully understand project scope.
  • Perform detailed quantity takeoffs for all divisions of work (concrete, masonry, steel, finishes, specialties, MEP, sitework, etc.).
  • Solicit, receive, analyze, and scope subcontractor and supplier bids/quotes; negotiate pricing and clarify scopes to ensure complete coverage.
  • Develop accurate cost estimates including labor, material, equipment, subcontractor costs, general conditions, overhead, profit, bonds, insurance, and contingencies.
  • Prepare conceptual / schematic design estimates, design development budgets, and guaranteed maximum price (GMP) or hard-bid proposals.
  • Identify value engineering opportunities, constructability issues, and potential project risks; present alternatives to project teams and clients.
  • Collaborate with project managers, superintendents, architects, engineers, and owners during pre-bid and preconstruction phases.
  • Assemble clear, professional bid proposals, scope clarifications, and bid documents for submission.
  • Participate in bid reviews, post-bid clarifications, and turnover meetings to operations teams.
  • Maintain and update unit cost databases, historical cost data, and estimating templates/software.
  • Support marketing efforts by providing conceptual budgets and assisting with proposal narratives when needed.
  • Stay current on market pricing trends, labor rates, material costs, and construction best practices in the commercial sector.
Required Qualifications
  • 38+ years of progressive estimating experience in commercial construction (office, retail, healthcare, hospitality, industrial, or similar).
  • Proven track record preparing competitive bids as a general contractor estimator (experience with both hard-bid and negotiated/GMP projects preferred).
  • Strong ability to read and interpret complex construction drawings, specifications, and contracts.
  • Excellent mathematical, analytical, and problem-solving skills with high attention to detail and accuracy.
  • Proficiency in construction estimating software (e.g., Procore, PlanSwift, Bluebeam, On-Screen Takeoff, Sage Estimating/Timberline, DESTINI, or similar).
  • Solid understanding of commercial construction means and methods, building codes, and industry standards.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills for working with subcontractors, vendors, design teams, and internal staff.
  • Ability to manage multiple estimates and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture, Quantity Surveying, or related field (or equivalent field experience).
  • Experience with conceptual estimating, design-assist projects, and/or public sector/commercial bidding.
  • Familiarity with LEED/sustainable construction practices and cost impacts.
  • OSHA 10 or 30 certification.
  • Local market knowledge (regional material/labor pricing and subcontractor networks).