ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Design Associate Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Summit Products

Cad Tech

Altoona, IA

$19 - $24/hr

Cad Tech Summit Products is looking for a talented CAD Tech with Documentation and ERP experience ... Associate (Preferred) Experience: * SolidWorks: 2 years (Preferred) * AutoCAD: 1 year (Preferred ...

Summit Products

Cad Tech

Altoona, IA · On-site

$19 - $24/hr

Cad Tech Summit Products is looking for a talented CAD Tech with Documentation and ERP experience ... Associate (Preferred) Experience: * SolidWorks: 2 years (Preferred) * AutoCAD: 1 year (Preferred ...

Beneficial Talent Source

CAD Drafter

Davenport, IA

$20 - $30/hr

CAD Drafter/Engineering Tech in Davenport $20-30/hr M-F, 7-3:30 (on Fridays get off at 2:45pm) Join ... Associate Degree in Drafting, Engineering Technology, or equivalent relevant industry experience.

Summit Products

Cad Tech

Altoona, IA · On-site

Salary: 19.00-24.00 Cad Tech Summit Products is looking for a talented CAD Tech with Documentation ... Associate (Preferred) Experience: * SolidWorks: 2 years (Preferred) * AutoCAD: 1 year (Preferred ...

Coilcraft

Hawarden 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 ...

Coilcraft

Hawarden 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 ...

Puck Enterprises

Product Design Engineer I

Manning, IA · On-site

$121K - $146K/yr

Associate's degree or higher in engineering or a related science * Minimum 2 years of design engineering experience Physical Requirements This role is primarily office-based with some time in ...

Puck Enterprises

Product Design Engineer I

Manning, IA

$121K - $146K/yr

Associate's degree or higher in engineering or a related science * Minimum 2 years of design engineering experience Physical Requirements This role is primarily office-based with some time in ...

Puck Enterprises

Product Design Engineer I

Manning, IA · On-site

$121K - $146K/yr

Associate's degree or higher in engineering or a related science * Minimum 2 years of design engineering experience Physical Requirements This role is primarily office-based with some time in ...

TekWissen LLC

CAD Technician

Muscatine, IA · On-site

Associate degree in Drafting/Design Technology or equivalent. Competencies/Skills: The position requires good communication skills, capable of making decisions independently, strong personal ...

BSI Engineering LLC

Piping Design Co-Op

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$18.50 - $21/hr

Pursuing an Associate Technology Degree and/or Computer Drafting and Design Degree preferred but not required; High School Diploma required * No prior work experience required, but Co-ops are a plus

WesTech Engineering

CAD Designer

Ames, IA · Hybrid

$26.50 - $36.50/hr

Associate's degree in Industrial Design, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Mechanical Engineering or equivalent * Knowledge of the function and operation of Autodesk Inventor ...

WesTech Engineering

CAD Designer

Ames, IA · On-site

$26.50 - $36.50/hr

Associate's degree in Industrial Design, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Mechanical Engineering or equivalent * Knowledge of the function and operation of Autodesk Inventor ...

CTI

Audio Visual Design Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

Audio Visual Design Engineer CTI has been a leading Audio Visual provider for over 38 years. Since ... An associate degree is preferred, but not required. We take into account your experience/skill ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

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 16, 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.
Associate Project Manager - Site Design

Associate Project Manager - Site Design

Olsson

Des Moines, IA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 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

Olsson provides multidisciplinary, preliminary, and construction design services for mixed-use, commercial, and residential land development projects, along with industrial, sports, schools, and other site development types. The Associate Project Manager role oversees project deliverables and completion for small-to mid-sized projects for the team. This position is involved in the full project life cycle and is responsible for ensuring timely completion of projects in accordance with established scope, schedule, and budget. This role leads the successful delivery of projects that provide purposeful, high-quality solutions to successfully solve engineering and design needs.

Primary Responsibilities will include:

  • Assembles project teams and assigns individual responsibilities to ensure technical skills, capabilities, and expertise align with project objectives.
  • Creates and communicates project scope, schedule, and budget with the project team, client, and contractors and serves as primary liaison by informing all parties of project progress and challenges.
  • Develops project budgets, reviews costs, and tracks adherence of planned budget to maintain client satisfaction and contribute to the execution and financial success of projects.
  • Secures appropriate resources for all stages of the project, ensuring timely completion of assignments.
  • Recognizes potential risks or additional costs within project plans and implements strategies to minimize impact.
  • Organizes and conducts routine project meetings with the client and project team to establish alignment on project expectations and performance.
  • Documents all project deliverables and maintains records including correspondence, design plans, and other project related files.
  • Develops and maintains strong relationships with clients to secure future work.
  • Coordinates contract negotiations.
  • Mentors staff within the team on project management best practices utilizing Olsson Project Management programs and other project assurance services resources.
  • Adheres to regulations and enforces safety standards.
Qualifications

You are passionate about:

  • Working collaboratively with others.
  • Having ownership in the work you do.
  • Using your talents to positively affect communities.

You bring to the team:

  • Strong communication skills
  • Ability to contribute and work well on a team
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering
  • Project management experience including scope, schedule, and budget control
  • 8+ years of experience in site design and development
  • Must be a registered Professional Engineer (PE)
  • Experience with AutoCAD Civil 3D

#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.