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Design Associate Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

We believe our associates are our greatest brand ambassadors, and we value talent, entrepreneurial ... Our Design Selling Leaders are the driving force behind our design business success As a Design ...

We believe our associates are our greatest brand ambassadors, and we value talent, entrepreneurial ... Our Design Selling Leaders are the driving force behind our design business success As a Design ...

We believe our associates are our greatest brand ambassadors, and we value talent, entrepreneurial ... Our Design Selling Leaders are the driving force behind our design business success As a Design ...

Interior Design Retail Sales Manager

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

We believe our associates are our greatest brand ambassadors, and we value talent, entrepreneurial ... Our Design Selling Leaders are the driving force behind our design business success As a Design ...

We believe our associates are our greatest brand ambassadors, and we value talent, entrepreneurial ... Our Design Selling Leaders are the driving force behind our design business success As a Design ...

We believe our associates are our greatest brand ambassadors, and we value talent, entrepreneurial ... Our Design Selling Leaders are the driving force behind our design business success As a Design ...

We believe our associates are our greatest brand ambassadors, and we value talent, entrepreneurial ... Our Design Selling Leaders are the driving force behind our design business success As a Design ...

We believe our associates are our greatest brand ambassadors, and we value talent, entrepreneurial ... Our Design Selling Leaders are the driving force behind our design business success As a Design ...

The Design Consultant at Floor & Decor is the entry point into design and is responsible for ... Paid vacation and sick time for eligible associates * Paid holidays plus a personal holiday * Paid ...

The Design Consultant at Floor & Decor is the entry point into design and is responsible for ... Paid vacation and sick time for eligible associates * Paid holidays plus a personal holiday * Paid ...

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Design Associate information

See Tennessee salary details

$17.7K

$53.1K

$79.4K

How much do design associate jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for design associate in Tennessee is $53,150.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,000.00 and $61,700.00 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 Tennessee? The most popular types of Design jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Design Associate jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Design Associate job openings:

Interior Design Retail Sales Manager

eth

Knoxville, TN

$15.75 - $19/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Named America's #1 Premium Furniture Retailer by Newsweek, Ethan Allen is a leading interior design destination combining state-of-the-art technology with personal service. After more than 90 profitable years in business, we still make about 75% of our custom-crafted products in our North American workshops and have an enduring reputation for quality and craftsmanship. In our global network of Design Centers, we offer complimentary interior design service and sell a full range of home furnishings, including custom furniture and artisan-crafted accents for every room in the home. We believe our associates are our greatest brand ambassadors, and we value talent, entrepreneurial drive, and the ability to build long-lasting relationships with our clients. We're glad you're exploring the possibility of designing your future with us.

Our Design Selling Leaders are the driving force behind our design business success

As a Design Selling Leader, you:

  • Have a passion for design.
  • Partner with a fabulous team of managers and designers.
  • Are tech-savvy, high-energy and on-trend
  • Partake in the best compensation programs in the industry- with generous salaries, incentives and flexible schedules.
  • Access state of the art technology.
  • Work with the most gorgeous product in the industry.

Our Design Selling Leader’s strengths include:

  • An entrepreneurial attitude and approach with strong communication and organizational skills. 
  • Passion and proven experience leading others.
  • Managing people and projects; preferably within a design-related environment.
  • Demonstrated use of technology and social media to drive business; experience with Live Chat, Augmented Reality and 3D Room Planner a plus.

As a Design Selling Leader, you:

  • Partner with Managers and Designers to achieve the goals and increase overall performance of the design center.
  • Manage, develop, train and motivate a team of design associates while maintaining a high level of customer contact.
  • Partner with each associate to manage design projects, customer contacts and relationships, sales volume, design consultant effectiveness and overall customer satisfaction
  • This position requires team leadership and the ability to manage the design process including the ability to review and provide feedback on design projects using technical and creative skills in color and space planning. 
  • Demonstrated ability to practice residential interior design.
  • Ability to train and coach for design, product knowledge, sales performance and customer service. 

Position Requirements:

  • Must be able to work holidays, evenings and weekends. 
  • Interior Design related degree and/or professional portfolio a plus

Compensation

This position offers a starting base salary of 60,000 to 70,000, depending on experience. In addition to the base salary, DSLs can earn monthly incentive compensation by demonstrating sales growth from prior periods.

Benefits

Benefits are an important part of the total compensation that is offered, providing peace of mind and financial well-being.  Ethan Allen is committed to offering a variety of benefits that allow associates to choose whether or not to participate based on personal and family needs.  Some of the benefits offered are 401(k) plan (with Employer contributions), multiple Medical Plans with Prescription Drug Coverage, Health Savings Account (including Employer contributions), Dental Plan, Vision Plan, Basic Group Term Life & Accidental Death & Dismemberment, Supplemental Group Term Life & AD&D Insurance, Dependent Group Term Life Insurance, Short and Long-Term Disability, Business Travel Accident Life Insurance, Flexible Spending Accounts – Health Care & Dependent Care, Commuter Saving Plans – Public Transit & Parking, Voluntary Whole Life Insurance, Voluntary Critical Care Insurance, Voluntary Accident Insurance and Employee Assistance Program. Benefit availability varies based on full-time or part-time employee classification.