ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Design Assistant Jobs in Tempe, AZ (NOW HIRING)

Kahala Management LLC

Design Assistant/CAD Drafter

Scottsdale, AZ · On-site

$22.75 - $30.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Kahala Brands, a globally recognized leader in quick-service restaurant franchising located in beautiful Scottsdale Arizona, currently has an opportunity for a Design Assistant/CAD Drafter to join ...

New

Schuff Steel

Design Integration Manager

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$85K - $115K/yr

The Design Integration Manager will work directly with clients and engineers during the Design Assist phase of projects as needed. They will also be working closely with key project partners such as ...

SCHUFF STEEL CO

Design Integration Manager

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

The Design Integration Manager will work directly with clients and engineers during the Design Assist phase of projects as needed. They will also be working closely with key project partners such as ...

DBM GLOBAL INC

Design Integration Manager

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

The Design Integration Manager will work directly with clients and engineers during the Design Assist phase of projects as needed. They will also be working closely with key project partners such as ...

GFT.

Revit/CAD Designer

Phoenix, AZ · Hybrid

$26.75 - $37/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Support model setup, file organization, and data integration for projects. * Assist with ... Integrate design models with GIS and other project data sources for improved project context.

Kortman Inc.

Project Manager: Data/Com

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Design-build and design-assist experience. * Project sizes between $25k to $8m. * DC power experience is a plus. Low Voltage Construction (Structured and/or Electronic) systems * Design-build and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDesign JobsDesign Assistant JobsDesign Assistant Jobs in Tempe, AZ

Design Assistant information

See Tempe, AZ salary details

$10

$23

$38

How much do design assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for design assistant in Tempe, AZ is $23.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.70 and $27.79 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.

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 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 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 most commonly searched types of Design jobs in Tempe, AZ? The most popular types of Design jobs in Tempe, AZ are:
What are popular job titles related to Design Assistant jobs in Tempe, AZ? For Design Assistant jobs in Tempe, AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Design Assistant jobs in Tempe, AZ look for? The top searched job categories for Design Assistant jobs in Tempe, AZ are:
What cities near Tempe, AZ are hiring for Design Assistant jobs? Cities near Tempe, AZ with the most Design Assistant job openings:
Design Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Design Assistant job openings in Tempe, AZ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 86% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,801 per year, or $23.9 per hour.

Design Assistant/CAD Drafter

Kahala Management LLC

Scottsdale, AZ • On-site

$22.75 - $30.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY:

Kahala Brands, a globally recognized leader in quick-service restaurant franchising located in beautiful Scottsdale Arizona, currently has an opportunity for a Design Assistant/CAD Drafter to join the headquarters team. Kahala franchisees and partners operate a portfolio of many quick-service restaurant brands including Cold Stone Creamery, Planet Smoothie, Pinkberry, Blimpie, and Baja Fresh, among others, in over 20 countries around the world. This is an entry to mid-level position and would report to the Director of Design.


Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D/V

JOB REQUIREMENTS:
  • 3 or more years of restaurant design experience. Will consider candidates with college degree in related studies in lieu of experience.
  • Educational or technical background in drafting, design or architecture experience working in a production firm environment a plus
  • Architectural building code knowledge is a plus
  • Design and construction background is a plus
  • Must be able to review and interpret site information or as-built plans
  • Generate plans, elevations, and details in AutoCad and PDF formats. These are required software skills.
  • Detailed understanding of plans, construction documents and engineering disciplines
  • Detailed knowledge and experience of restaurant equipment and design.
  • Willingness to work with multiple individuals and diverse franchisee clientele.
  • Ability to learn and retain brand standards/trade dress for multiple brands.
  • Must have excellent written, verbal, and organizational skills. Highly organized and detail oriented
  • Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Outlook, Excel, Word, PowerPoint and Teams)
  • Highly proficient in AutoCAD design software is a must including but not limited to block creation, updating and manipulation, layer management, and knowledge of creating drawing templates a plus
  • Smartsheet PM software experience is a plus
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Develop and/or maintain prototype CAD files for each brand including floor plans, finish details, elevations, ceiling and lighting and millwork details
  • Maintain equipment spec books for each brand
  • Maintain design guides for each brand
  • Create & maintain CAD block libraries for each brand
  • Draft feasibility test fits on request for unique spaces and/or multi-brands
  • Assist with drafting plans for remodels, office updates, and other internal projects
  • Collaborate closely with the design and construction team to ensure alignment
  • Standardize brand prototype filing system
  • Assist restaurant design managers with unique project requests as needed


PRE-CONSTRUCTION

  • Create proposed space “Test Fit” and other plans in AutoCad and PDF formats.
  • Provide support as needed to individual architects during the entire development process.


PLAN & DESIGN

  • Create and manage process checklists and forms as needed for each project.

REFRESH, REMODEL AND RELOCATION PROJECTS

  • Generate and update RF/RM guides, specifications, and requirements.
  • Review and redline remodel/reconfigured plans produced by architects while maintaining a variety of existing conditions, equipment, and requests.


OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES

  • New product and material search
  • Transition newly acquired brands into the Kahala development system.
  • Maintain and organize project files for all brands.


Benefits (Subject to Change):

  • 401(k) matching, including Roth options
  • 3 Medical insurance plans
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health savings account
  • Life insurance
  • Short-term disability insurance
  • Long-term disability insurance
  • Paid time off (10 holidays, 3 weeks PTO)
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Referral program
  • Wellness programs
  • Hybrid work schedule