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Design Associate Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Amish Haus Furniture

Be Seen First

Furniture Design Consultant

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$30K - $60K/yr

Amish Haus Furniture is looking for a design associate to join our established team. We are a locally owned business with a friendly atmosphere and a focus on the customer. Amish Haus offers you the ...

New

Amish Haus Furniture

Be Seen First

Furniture Design Consultant

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$30K - $60K/yr

Amish Haus Furniture is looking for a design associate to join our established team. We are a locally owned business with a friendly atmosphere and a focus on the customer. Amish Haus offers you the ...

New

Cushman & Wakefield

Project Design Manager

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$87K/yr

... associates for their assigned account(s). Responsibilities: Lead and mentor a team of design professionals, providing guidance, feedback, and support on design projects from initial sketch through ...

Cushman & Wakefield

Project Design Manager

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$87K/yr

... associates for their assigned account(s). Responsibilities: Lead and mentor a team of design professionals, providing guidance, feedback, and support on design projects from initial sketch through ...

Cushman & Wakefield

Project Design Manager

Ankeny, IA

$87K/yr

... associates for their assigned account(s). Responsibilities: Lead and mentor a team of design professionals, providing guidance, feedback, and support on design projects from initial sketch through ...

Cushman & Wakefield

Project Design Manager

Ankeny, IA

$87K/yr

... associates for their assigned account(s). Responsibilities: Lead and mentor a team of design professionals, providing guidance, feedback, and support on design projects from initial sketch through ...

Soap Creek Resources

Design Engineer

Oskaloosa, IA · On-site

$60K - $75K/yr

Associate degree in Mechanical Design, Electrical Design, Engineering Technology, or a related field. * One year of related engineering, design, or application engineering experience; or an ...

Altec

Design Engineer

Osceola, IA · On-site

... and associates. MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES: • Learns Altec's product lines and systems/rules ... team-oriented design, manufacture and customer service/support efforts • Operates with ...

Foth

Civil Design Technician

Des Moines, IA

... Associates degree in Civil Engineering Technology or related field • Familiarity with or previous experience using MicroStation/OpenRoads Designer and/or AutoCAD/Civil3D software for design and ...

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Coilcraft

CAD Drafter

Hawarden, IA · On-site

$21.75 - $29.25/hr

Associate's degree in Drafting/Design, Engineering Technology, or a related field preferred. * Proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Inventor, or similar). * Strong understanding ...

Foth

Civil Design Technician

Des Moines, IA

Associates degree in Civil Engineering Technology or related field Familiarity with or previous experience using MicroStation/OpenRoads Designer and/or AutoCAD/Civil3D software for design and ...

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All JobsDesign Associate JobsDesign Associate Jobs in Iowa

Design Associate information

See Iowa salary details

$18.3K

$55K

$82.2K

How much do design associate jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for design associate in Iowa is $55,004.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,600.00 and $63,900.00 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 Iowa? The most popular types of Design jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Design Associate jobs in Iowa? For Design Associate jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Design Associate jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Design Associate jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Design Associate jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Design Associate job openings:
Design Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Design Associate job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,004 per year, or $26.4 per hour.
Structural Design Associate - Industrial

Structural Design Associate - Industrial

Olsson

Des Moines, IA • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Company Description
We are Olsson. We engineer and design solutions that improve the world around us. As a company, we promise to always be responsive, transparent, and focused on results - for our people, our clients, and our company.
We're a people-centric firm, so it's no surprise our greatest asset is our people. The impact this creates is an environment that encourages our people to grow and be creative with their talents. This approach builds a culture that is uniquely Olsson. It allows us to grow our people as we grow our business. This, in turn, creates a lasting impact on the world around us.
Job Description
Join our dynamic industrial team at Olsson, where we combine innovation with excellence in the industrial sector. Recognized as one of the "Best Places to Work," our modern offices provide a collaborative environment for engineers to lead in diverse challenges and contribute to significant projects like Ethanol plant upgrades, manufacturing facilities, and renewable natural gas plant designs. Future growth is anticipated in semi-conductor facilities, advanced manufacturing, above ground mining, pharmaceuticals, and bio energy.
We are seeking an experienced Structural Design Associate that performs complex drafting assignments requiring the application of standardized techniques. The design associate works independently and may direct efforts of less experienced staff. This position has diversified design experience, an ability to perform work of a greater complexity, and recommends design techniques and minor design changes to ensure the best approach to solve engineering and design needs.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Develop and maintain structural LOD 200-400 BIM models in Autodesk Revit, including beams, columns, foundations, walls, and other key components.
  • Prepare and update structural drawings, layouts, specifications, details, and schedules for design and construction documentation.
  • Create and manage Revit families, templates, filters, and work sets to support project-specific needs and align with company standards.
  • Collaborate with civil and process teams to integrate models across platforms such as Civil 3D and Plant 3D.
  • Export models to RISA 3D and support structural analysis workflows.
  • Generate accurate quantity takeoffs from BIM models to support cost estimation.
  • Ensure all models and drawings comply with project requirements, codes (IBC, OSHA, PIP), and company standards.
  • Maintain revision control of BIM models and drawing sets, and lead efforts in routing and transmittal of drawings using Bluebeam.
  • Conduct quality reviews of models and documentation for accuracy, consistency, and constructability.
  • Participate in project coordination meetings and conduct occasional site visits to verify field conditions and support issue resolution.
  • Assist in the development of as-built models using 3D point cloud scans.
  • Stay current with emerging design tools and techniques to enhance project delivery.
  • Work closely with engineers in a collaborative, iterative design process.
  • Provide training and mentorship to team members in BIM software and workflows.
  • May supervise and review work of less experienced staff.
  • May be required to work in various terrain and weather conditions on active construction sites.
Qualifications
You are passionate about:
  • Working collaboratively with others.
  • Having ownership in the work you do.
  • Using your talents to positively affect communities.
  • Collaborating with clients and coworkers to develop custom, impactful solutions.
  • Playing an active role in project success-from scoping and design to management and delivery.
  • Building meaningful relationships with clients across projects of all sizes.
  • Working in a fast-paced environment where each day brings new challenges and opportunities.
  • Committed to advancing team goals by engaging in diverse project work.

You bring to the team:
  • Strong communication skills.
  • Ability to contribute and work well with a team.
  • Excellent interpersonal and problem-solving skills.
  • Associate degree in a related field preferred.
  • A minimum of eight years of experience using Autodesk Revit.
  • Autodesk Certified Professional in Revit for Structural Design with experience working on industrial projects.
  • Familiar with Navisworks and ACAD software.

#LI-DD1
Additional Information
Olsson specializes in engineering and design, client advisory services, planning, field services, and environmental. Improving the world has been our mindset from the very beginning, back when Olsson first opened for business in 1956. And it will be our mindset for years to come.
As an Olsson employee, you will:
  • Receive a competitive 401(k) match
  • Be empowered to build your career with tailored development paths
  • Have the possibility for flexible work arrangements
  • Engage in work that has a positive impact on communities
  • Participate in a wellness program promoting balanced lifestyles

In addition, full-time employees will receive our traditional benefits package (health care, vision, dental, paid time off, etc.) and the opportunity to participate in a bonus system that rewards performance.
Olsson is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We encourage qualified minority, female, veteran, and disabled candidates to apply and be considered for open positions. We do not discriminate against any applicant for employment or any employee because of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender, disability, age, military status, or other protected status.
Olsson understands the importance of privacy and is committed to protecting job applicants' personal information. Pursuant to the California Consumer Privacy Act, as amended by the California Privacy Rights Act (collectively, the "CCPA"), this notice explains Olsson's practices regarding the collection, use, and disclosure of personal information for job applicants residing in California. Please read this Notice carefully to understand our privacy practices.
For more information about the types of information we collect and how we use it in connection with your general access and use of our website, please review our general California Privacy Notice here.

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