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Design Associate Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Associate degree in Drafting, Design Technology, Engineering Technology, or a related field with atleast one year of drafting experience, and/or two years of relevant drafting experience.

Survey CAD Designer

Daphne, AL · On-site

$23.50 - $32.50/hr

Preferred: * Associate degree or technical certification in drafting, surveying, or related field. * 2+ years of CAD drafting/design experience in a survey or civil engineering environment.

Survey CAD Designer

Daphne, AL · On-site

$23.50 - $32.50/hr

Preferred: * Associate degree or technical certification in drafting, surveying, or related field. * 2+ years of CAD drafting/design experience in a survey or civil engineering environment.

Ensure accurate and quality design of engineered floor wood trusses by ELP Designers. * Direct ... Associate's degree (A. A.) or equivalent from two-year college or technical school; or two to four ...

Thermal Design Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site +1

$130K - $179K/yr

Design Engineer - Passive Thermal Systems - 12+ months Mid-Level | Aerospace & Defense *This job is ... At MORI Associates, we partner with some of the most visionary and mission-critical organizations ...

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Design Associate information

See Alabama salary details

$17.7K

$53.1K

$79.3K

How much do design associate jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for design associate in Alabama is $53,079.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,000.00 and $61,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Design Associate vs Design Coordinator?

AspectDesign AssociateDesign Coordinator
Required CredentialsAssociate's degree or relevant certification, some experienceSimilar credentials, often with additional project management skills
Work EnvironmentDesign firms, retail, or corporate settingsDesign teams, client-facing roles, project management settings
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in interior, graphic, and product designOften used interchangeably or in larger firms for project oversight

The main difference between a Design Associate and a Design Coordinator lies in their focus. Design Associates typically assist with design tasks and client support, while Design Coordinators often handle project coordination, timelines, and communication. Both roles require similar credentials, but Design Coordinators usually have additional organizational responsibilities.

What does a design associate do?

A design associate supports the design team by creating visual concepts, drafting layouts, and preparing presentations using tools like Adobe Creative Suite or CAD software. They collaborate with clients and team members to develop design solutions and ensure projects meet specifications and deadlines.

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 is the highest paid design job?

The highest paid design jobs are often senior roles such as Creative Director or Design Director, which can earn six-figure salaries. These positions typically require extensive experience, leadership skills, and proficiency with design tools like Adobe Creative Suite or CAD software. Specialized fields like UX/UI design or industrial design can also offer high salaries at senior levels.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Design Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Design Associate, you need a solid understanding of design principles, proficiency in graphic design, and a relevant degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with industry-standard design software such as Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign) is typically required. Strong communication, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate creatively are essential soft skills. These skills and qualities enable effective project execution, ensure design consistency, and foster successful teamwork in a fast-paced creative environment.

What are some common challenges Design Associates face when working on multiple projects simultaneously?

Design Associates often juggle several projects at once, which can make managing deadlines and shifting priorities a challenge. Effective communication with team members and clear organization of tasks are essential to ensure all projects move forward smoothly. Additionally, adapting quickly to feedback from clients or senior designers is key, as project requirements can change rapidly. Building strong time management skills and staying flexible will help you thrive in this fast-paced environment.

What are Design Associates?

Design Associates are entry- to mid-level professionals who support design teams in creating visual concepts, layouts, and presentations for projects across industries such as graphic design, interior design, fashion, and architecture. They assist senior designers by conducting research, preparing materials, and using design software to bring creative ideas to life. Design Associates often collaborate with clients and other team members to ensure that the final product aligns with project goals and brand standards.

Is AI replacing designers?

AI tools are increasingly used by design associates to automate repetitive tasks and generate ideas, but they do not replace the need for human creativity, critical thinking, and aesthetic judgment. Designers and design associates still play a vital role in interpreting client needs, making strategic decisions, and ensuring quality. AI serves as a complement to design skills rather than a complete replacement in the design process.
What are the most commonly searched types of Design jobs in Alabama? The most popular types of Design jobs in Alabama are:
What cities in Alabama are hiring for Design Associate jobs? Cities in Alabama with the most Design Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Design Associate job openings in Alabama as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 61% Full Time, 32% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,079 per year, or $25.5 per hour.
Architectural Design Coordinator - 528673

Architectural Design Coordinator - 528673

University of Alabama

Tuscaloosa, AL • On-site

$48K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago


University Of Alabama rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 59 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

362nd of 553 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Pay Grade/Pay Range: Minimum: $48,600 - Midpoint: $60,800 (Salaried E7)
Department/Organization: 509101 - Construction Administration
Normal Work Schedule: Monday - Friday 8:00am to 5:00pm
Job Summary: The Architectural Design Coordinator provides architectural support for existing and new campus projects. Assists in the evaluation, selection, application, and adaptation of architectural techniques, procedures, and design.
Additional Department Summary: Plans and produces work requiring sound professional judgment in the evaluation, selection, application, and adaptation of architectural techniques, procedures, and design. Monitors construction for compliance to applicable codes, accepted practices, and University standards. Provides architectural support to the department relating to campus projects, including the review of design documents and shop drawings.
Required Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor's degree and two (2) years of architectural experience to include two (2) years Revit experience and/or 3D modeling in an architectural work environment; OR associate's degree and four (4) years of architectural experience to include two (2) years Revit experience and/or 3D modeling in an architectural work environment.
Additional Required Department Minimum Qualifications: Must have valid U.S. driver's license. Must be at least 19 years of age at time of hire and have an acceptable Motor Vehicle Report that is in compliance with University policies. Applicants under the age of 21 will have some driving restrictions.
Final candidates must submit to and successfully pass a post-offer drug screen.
Skills and Knowledge: Knowledge of Revit, ICC Codes, and ADAAG requirements for buildings and building sites. In-depth knowledge of architectural design concepts and practices, as well as extensive knowledge of the construction process for new construction and renovation. Ability to communicate clearly and to relate to users, administrators, design professionals, contractors, and staff members.
Preferred Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in architectural design, interior design, or drafting from an accredited academic institution. Three (3) years of architectural experience. Experience designing University facilities. Experience generating plans and specifications for commercial or institutional construction.
Background Investigation Statement: Prior to hiring, the final candidate(s) must successfully pass a pre-employment background investigation and information obtained from social media and other internet sources. A prior conviction reported as a result of the background investigation DOES NOT automatically disqualify a candidate from consideration for this position. A candidate with a prior conviction or negative behavioral red flags will receive an individualized review of the prior conviction or negative behavioral red flags before a hiring decision is made.
Equal Employment Opportunity: The University of Alabama is an Equal Employment/Equal Educational Opportunity Institution. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment or volunteer status without regard to any legally protected basis and will not be discriminated against because of their protected status. Applicants and employees of this institution are protected under Federal law from discrimination on several bases. More information is available in the EEOC's Know Your Rights: Workplace discrimination is illegal poster.
The University of Alabama affirms its longstanding commitment to institutional neutrality, free speech, and academic freedom.

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