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Design Assistant Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Floor & Décor

Design Studio Design Consultant

Vienna, VA · On-site

$20.14 - $36.66/hr

Pay Range $20.14 - $36.66 Purpose The Design Consultant is responsible for setting appointments, meeting with customers in store and to determine design needs in the selection of tile, wood, stone ...

CoreSite

Design Manager (Remote)

Washington, DC · Remote

$120K - $135K/yr

Assist with maintaining CoreSite's OPR to reflect lessons learned, market trends, and technological ... Design Management:Prepare for and support project kickoff meetings with internal stakeholders to ...

Stantec

Senior Plumbing Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$126K - $189K/yr

Incorporate sustainable design methods in buildings and prepare green rating system documentation; * Assist in spatial coordination with architecture and other engineering systems; * Deliver projects ...

Stantec

Senior Plumbing Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$118K - $162K/yr

Incorporate sustainable design methods in buildings and prepare green rating system documentation; * Assist in spatial coordination with architecture and other engineering systems; * Deliver projects ...

Stantec

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$126K - $189K/yr

Incorporate sustainable design methods in buildings and prepare green rating system documentation * Assist in spatial coordination with architecture and other engineering systems * Deliver projects ...

Stantec

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$126K - $189K/yr

Incorporate sustainable design methods in buildings and prepare green rating system documentation * Assist in spatial coordination with architecture and other engineering systems * Deliver projects ...

The Shade Store

Design Consultant

Washington, DC

$65K - $75K/yr

Title: Design Consultant Location: Washington, DC Compensation: The base salary range for this ... Showroom Operations: * Assist in managing daily showroom operations to create a clean and inviting ...

EMCOR Group Inc

Dynalectric Company

Dulles, VA

$70K - $100K/yr

For both new construction and renovation projects, we offer design-build/design-assist, value engineering, and CAD services, working with biotech, healthcare, commercial, transportation, and ...

The Shade Store

Design Consultant

Washington, DC · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

Title: Design Consultant Location: Washington, DC Compensation: The base salary range for this ... Showroom Operations: * Assist in managing daily showroom operations to create a clean and inviting ...

The Shade Store

Design Consultant

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

Title: Design Consultant Location: Bethesda, MD Compensation: The base salary range for this ... Showroom Operations: * Assist in managing daily showroom operations to create a clean and inviting ...

Alpha Corporation

Roadway Design Engineer

Sterling, VA

$78K - $96K/yr

Develop plan, profile, typical sections, and cross-sections for roadway design packages. * Assist in preparing maintenance of traffic (MOT), signing, and pavement marking plans. * Prepare ...

The Shade Store

Design Consultant

Bethesda, MD

$65K - $75K/yr

Title: Design Consultant Location: Bethesda, MD Compensation: The base salary range for this ... Showroom Operations: * Assist in managing daily showroom operations to create a clean and inviting ...

Alpha

Roadway Design Engineer

Baltimore, MD

$77K - $94K/yr

Develop plan, profile, typical sections, and cross-sections for roadway design packages. * Assist in preparing maintenance of traffic (MOT), signing, and pavement marking plans. * Prepare ...

JCM Associates

HVAC Service Technician

Arlington, VA · On-site

These services include new construction, renovation and maintenance of HVAC and Plumbing systems for plan-spec, design-build and design-assist commercial and high-rise residential buildings. Key ...

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All JobsDesign Assistant JobsDesign Assistant Jobs in Reston, VA

Design Assistant information

See Reston, VA salary details

$11

$25

$40

How much do design assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for design assistant in Reston, VA is $25.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.00 and $29.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 to 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. Developing skills in design software such as Adobe Creative Suite and building a strong portfolio are important steps, along with gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions in design environments.

What is the highest paid assistant job?

The highest paid assistant jobs are often executive assistants or personal assistants working in high-level industries such as finance, law, or technology, with salaries exceeding $80,000 annually. Specialized skills, experience, and working in major metropolitan areas can lead to higher compensation for these roles.

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 is the work of an assistant designer?

An assistant designer supports lead designers by preparing sketches, creating digital designs using software like Adobe Creative Suite, and assisting with project coordination. They often help with research, material selection, and ensuring design deadlines are met in a collaborative environment.

What are Design Assistants?

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 is a design assistant's salary?

A design assistant's salary typically ranges from $40,000 to $60,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced assistants or those with specialized skills can earn more. Salaries often include benefits such as health insurance and paid time off.
What are the most commonly searched types of Design jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Design jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Design Assistant jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Design Assistant job openings:
Design Assistant jobs near you

Drafter/ Design Coordinator

DMV Foundation Solutions

Alexandria, VA • On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Role Overview

We are seeking a detail-oriented Drafter / Design Coordinator to join our team at Harry Braswell Design + Build. You will be the technical engine behind our design process, taking conceptual ideas and on-site measurements and turning them into precise, actionable drawings. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys the "nitty-gritty" of construction documentation and wants to see their drawings come to life in high-end, historic, and custom residential projects.


Key Responsibilities

  • On-Site Measuring: Visit project sites (often older or historic homes) to accurately measure existing conditions.
  • Technical Drafting: Use AutoCAD to produce detailed floor plans, electrical plans, interior/exterior elevations, and cabinetry drawings.
  • Detailed Documentation: Produce precise drawings that builders and subcontractors can use for seamless implementation without ambiguity.
  • Design Support: Assist the Senior Design/PM team (Gretchen and Marta) by translating their creative vision into technical sets.
  • Presentation & Organization: Utilize digital tools to assemble design presentations and client materials to keep projects moving efficiently.
  • Project Evolution: Maintain and update drawings as project scopes shift during the renovation process.

Technical Skills & Qualifications

  • Software Proficiency (Required): Strong command of AutoCAD is a primary must-have. You must be able to create comprehensive plan sets (elevations, floor plans, electrical).
  • Administrative & Presentation Tools: Proficiency in Excel, PowerPoint, Google Workspace, and creative tools like Canva or Photoshop to assist in project organization and client presentations.
  • Construction Knowledge: Ability to understand residential construction sequencing and how interior details (trim, cabinetry, tile) integrate.
  • Experience with cabinetry design is a strong bonus.
  • Education: A degree in Architecture, Interior Design, or a technical drafting certificate. (A two-year degree is welcomed if technical skill is high).
  • Historical Sensibility: An appreciation for older homes and the unique challenges they present during measurement and drafting.

The Ideal Candidate

  • Precision-Focused: You find satisfaction in the "nitty-gritty" details and take pride in the accuracy of your measurements.
  • Self-Starter: You are proactive and don't require constant "hand-holding" once a project's direction is established.
  • Local Insight: Local or regional educational/work background providing a baseline for North American residential standards.
  • Communication: Comfortable and professional when communicating with internal teams, vendors, suppliers, and subcontractors via email, phone, and in person. You are also comfortable interacting with clients during site visits.

Compensation & Growth

  • Salary: Starting range of $60,000 - $65,000 (commensurate with experience).
  • Growth Path: This role is essential as our firm grows. There is a significant opportunity to take on more responsibility as you learn the specific "Design + Build" brand and standards.

Why This Role?

Unlike a traditional architecture firm where you might be one of a dozen CAD operators, here you are integral to the project's success. You will work on unique, high-end renovations where every drawing matters, and you will see your work built in real-time.