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Design Assistant Jobs in Prior Lake, MN (NOW HIRING)

Assistant Design Phase Manager SUMMARY Mortenson is currently seeking an Assistant Design Phase Manager with the ability to interact with a variety of staff at all levels in an ever-changing ...

The Assistant Design Phase Manager is responsible for providing technical project leadership during the design phase as it relates to customer experience, financial performance, schedule, estimating ...

Associate AI Solution Architect

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$65.75 - $86.75/hr

Architect and Design: assist in the design and development of enterprise-grade application architecture applications and platforms, with a focus on scaling for production. This includes defining the ...

We design, manufacture, and install a complete line of custom closets, home office furniture, media ... Carpentry Installer Assistant assist Installers with installation of products in a safe, high ...

Painter

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

... other design-assist services. A few things we have to offer: * Competitive Wages * Medical, Dental & Vision for employee & family including domestic partners. * 401k with match * Tuition ...

Showing results 21-40

Design Assistant information

See Prior Lake, MN salary details

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How much do design assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for design assistant in Prior Lake, MN is $25.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $29.38 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 Prior Lake, MN?

The most popular types of Design jobs in Prior Lake, MN are:

What job categories do people searching Design Assistant jobs in Prior Lake, MN look for?

The top searched job categories for Design Assistant jobs in Prior Lake, MN are:

What cities near Prior Lake, MN are hiring for Design Assistant jobs?

Cities near Prior Lake, MN with the most Design Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Design Assistant job openings in Prior Lake, MN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,567 per year, or $25.3 per hour.

Assistant Design Phase Manager

Mortenson

Minneapolis, MN • Hybrid

$102K - $137K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


Mortenson rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Assistant Design Phase Manager 

SUMMARY 

Mortenson is currently seeking an Assistant Design Phase Manager with the ability to interact with a variety of staff at all levels in an ever-changing environment, remaining flexible, resourceful, proactive, and efficient with a high level of professionalism and confidentiality. The Assistant Design Phase Manager is responsible for providing technical project leadership during the design phase as it relates to customer experience, financial performance, schedule, estimating, design, and planning that results in a smooth transition to construction operations. Provide project leadership during the design phase of smaller-scale projects and/or support the Design Phase Manager with project leadership during the design phase of larger-scale projects. May work on two (2) projects simultaneously or one (1) larger project. 

RESPONSIBILITIES 

  • Lead project team to achieve schedule alignment, integrated team experience, and construction readiness 

  • Establish and manage project budget and scope expectations 

  • Manage budget trending logs and associated communications 

  • Support Design Phase Manager/Project Executive with design phase cost issues 

  • Create and manage project schedules and key milestones 

  • Lead due diligence for permitting and code compliance 

  • Ensure regulatory approvals and permits are obtained 

  • Manage proposal and design phase in alignment with estimates and RFPs 

  • Coordinate and manage proposal process during active RFPs 

  • Align design documents and project execution plans with stakeholders 

  • Identify and resolve technical design and specification concerns 

  • Manage/attend project site visits during pursuit and design phases 

  • Coordinate design reviews with Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) team 

  • Handle bid packages and contract manuals 

  • Coordinate Design Phase meetings with Owner, Design partners, and internal team 

  • Support negotiations for agreements with owners, designers, trade partners, etc. 

  • Coordinate Risk and Legal review of EPC Agreement and key Exhibits 

  • Ensure timely constructability reviews by project teams 

  • Assist in developing and aligning project margin plans 

  • Foster integrated team experience through communication and collaboration 

  • Manage, mentor, and guide design phase team engineers and project/field engineers 

  • Manage project transition to project management team 

  • Build relationships with diverse backgrounds and organizational levels 

  • Lead by example, provide coaching, and manage team performance 

  • Perform other duties as assigned 

QUALIFICATIONS 

  • Bachelor's degree in Construction, Civil, Mechanical, Electrical or Architectural Engineering, Construction Management, Estimating, or equivalent field   

  • Minimum five years of relevant experience  

  • Strong teamwork orientation, initiative, communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills   

  • Detail orientation sufficient to organize and manage multiple project tasks   

  • Basic understanding of construction law and generally accepted business practices   

  • Microsoft Office, project, and pertinent web application skills at an intermediate level  

  • Shown positive and professional attitude, and strong customer service skills   

  • Ability to interpret and communicate Mortenson policies   

  • Active listening skills and effective communication including an openness to diverse input and feedback  

  • Knowledge of Equal Employment Opportunity, inclusive behaviors, and Affirmative Action plans and their intended use  

  • Ability to travel up to 100% 

A few benefits offered include: 

(for Non-Craft & Non-Union Craft working 25+ hours / week) 

  • Medical and prescription drug plans that includes no additional cost vision coverage 

  • Dental plan 

  • 401k retirement plan with a generous Mortenson match  

  • Paid time off, holidays, and other paid leaves 

  • Employer paid Life, AD&D, and disability insurance 

  • No-Cost mental health tool and conciergewith extensive work-life resources 

  • Tuition reimbursement 

  • Adoption Assistance 

  • Gym Membership Discount Program 

The base pay range for this role is $102,000 - $137,700. (Actual range is higher for the following office locations: Denver, CO and Chicago, IL - 5%, Seattle, WA, and Portland, OR - 10%, Washington, D.C. - 12.5%). 

Base pay is positioned within the range based on several factors including an individual's knowledge, skills, and experience, with consideration given to internal equity.  This position is eligible for Mortenson's incentive plan. 

#LI-HC1 #LI-<> 

Please make note:  

  • Visa sponsorship is not offered for this position.  

  • Our postings are typically open a minimum of 5 days and an average of 44 days. 

ABOUT MORTENSON 

As a top builder, developer, and EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction), our expertise spans markets like sports, renewable energy, data centers, healthcare, and more. We are builders at heart, working to ensure the built environment has a lasting positive impact. 

Let's Redefine Possible 

Equal Employment Opportunity 

Your uniqueness brings new and creative perspectives to the team. Mortenson is committed to providing equal opportunities of employment (EOE) to all individuals, regardless of your race, religion, gender, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, marital status or any other legally protected category. 

Other Items to Note 

  • Mortenson reserves the right to hire any individual without legal or financial obligation on unwanted solicitations.No agency emails, calls, or solicitations are accepted without a valid agreement. 

  • Must be currently legally authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g., H1B status, 0-1, TN, CPT, OPT, etc.). We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.  


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M. A. Mortenson logo

About M. A. Mortenson

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

M. A. Mortenson is a prominent name in the construction industry, based out of Minneapolis, MN, US. Established in 1954 by M.A. Mortenson Sr., the company has over six decades of experience offering construction services that have contributed to building lasting infrastructures across various sectors, including healthcare, energy, corporate, and sports. Mortenson has proven its exceptional expertise through a range of complex building and facility projects across the US fulfilling the customer's specifications and exceeding their expectations. Moreover, the company's core values are outlined as ‘Do the Right Thing’, ‘We Before I’, ‘Inspire What’s Possible’, and ‘In it for the long haul’.

Industry

Manufacturing and construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Minneapolis, MN, US

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