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Design Associate Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Design Associate information

See Virginia salary details

$19.3K

$58.1K

$86.7K

How much do design associate jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for design associate in Virginia is $58,058.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,100.00 and $67,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Design jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Design jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Design Associate jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Design Associate job openings:
Sr. Project Manager (Transportation-PE)

Sr. Project Manager (Transportation-PE)

Rinker Design Associates

Lorton, VA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Description
Drive the Future of Transportation with RDA – Sr. Project Manager (Transportation-PE)
Design with purpose. Lead with impact.

Are you a seasoned transportation professional ready to take your career to the next level? Rinker Design Associates (RDA) is growing, and we’re looking for dynamic Sr. Project Manager (Transportation-PE) to help shape the future of infrastructure in Virginia and beyond.
This is more than a job—it's a chance to lead high-profile transportation projects, mentor rising talent, and build lasting relationships with clients and communities. Whether it's a major design-build initiative or a transformative local improvement, your work will leave a meaningful mark.
Locations: Manassas, Glen Allen, Waynesboro, Fredericksburg, or Virginia Beach VA
 
💥
This role is eligible for up to a $10,000 sign-on bonus!💥
Go beyond the job description: Uncover projects that ignite your passion. Transportation Engineering | RDA

What You'll Do:
  • Lead with Purpose: Manage complex transportation projects from planning through delivery, ensuring technical excellence and quality control.
  • Inspire & Mentor: Support the development of junior engineers and foster a collaborative, high-performing team.
  • Drive Strategy: Oversee scheduling, budgeting, resource planning, and risk management—keeping projects on time and on track.
  • Grow the Business: Cultivate client relationships, identify new opportunities, and lead local business development efforts.
  • Own the Outcome: Take charge of contract management, client satisfaction, profitability, and project performance.

What You Bring:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering (P.E. in VA or ability to obtain)
  • 15+ years of hands-on experience in transportation/highway design and project leadership
  • Proven ability to manage multi-disciplinary teams and mentor emerging engineers
  • Strong relationships with local agencies and a deep understanding of VDOT, AASHTO, FHWA, and MUTCD standards
  • Technical expertise in traffic engineering, drainage, and roadway design (MicroStation, OpenRoads, AutoCAD/Civil3D proficiency a plus)
  • Bonus points for experience with design-build and public-private partnership (PPP) projects

Why Join RDA?
We offer a comprehensive benefits package which includes:   
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401K Retirement Plan; Roth Contributions
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
  • Life, AD&D, short-term and long-term disability
  • Generous PTO and 8 federal holidays + 1 floating holiday
  • Parental leave 
  • Supportive team culture
RDA is an Equal Opportunity Employer and maintains a drug-free workplace.
Applicants that require an employment visa sponsorship now or in the future will not be considered. 

#LI-TT1 

About Rinker Design Associates
Rinker Design Associates, LLC (RDA) is a distinguished civil engineering firm based in Virginia, with over 250 employees and offices located in Manassas (headquarters and satellite), Fredericksburg, Richmond, Virginia Beach, Waynesboro, Abingdon, Big Stone Gap, and Galax.
For more than 44 years, RDA has built a solid reputation for providing conscientious and reliable service to municipalities, governmental agencies, and private industries located throughout Virginia – service that our clients and their communities deserve. We pride ourselves in offering high quality deliverables and support services that meet project, budget, and schedule requirements, exceeding our clients’ expectations.
Services provided by RDA include Transportation; Alternative Project Delivery; Site/Civil; Construction Engineering and Inspection; Right of Way; Traffic; Surveying; Structures/Bridges; Water/Wastewater; Environmental Review & Permitting; Utilities; Inflow & Infiltration Identification/Remediation; Public Sector Architecture; and GIS.

Our hiring process
Stage 1: Applied
Stage 2: Initial Screening
Stage 3: 1st Interview
Stage 4: Offer
Stage 5: Hired