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Design Associate Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Stand Together

Associate Design Director

Arlington, VA · On-site

$125K - $160K/yr

We're looking for a highly skilled, detail-oriented Associate Design Director to elevate the quality, consistency, and impact of our creative work across the Stand Together brand and its network of ...

Stand Together

Associate Design Director

Arlington, VA

$125K - $160K/yr

We're looking for a highly skilled, detail-oriented Associate Design Director to elevate the quality, consistency, and impact of our creative work across the Stand Together brand and its network of ...

Stand Together

Associate Design Director

Arlington, VA · On-site

$125K - $160K/yr

We're looking for a highly skilled, detail-oriented Associate Design Director to elevate the quality, consistency, and impact of our creative work across the Stand Together brand and its network of ...

M.C. Dean, Inc

Design Engineer Associate

Tysons, VA · On-site

$75K - $94K/yr

We design, build, operate, and maintain cyber-physical solutions for the nation's most mission-critical facilities, secure environments, complex infrastructure, and global enterprises. With over 7 ...

Floor & Decor

Design Consultant

Manassas, VA

$17 - $20.60/hr

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 ...

Floor & Decor

Design Consultant

Silver Spring, MD

$17.75 - $20.90/hr

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 ...

Floor & Décor

Design Consultant

Aspen Hill, MD

$17.75 - $20.90/hr

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 ...

Floor & Décor

Design Consultant

Manassas, VA · On-site

$17 - $20.60/hr

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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All JobsDesign Associate JobsDesign Associate Jobs in Washington

Design Associate information

See Washington salary details

$22.1K

$66.3K

$99.1K

How much do design associate jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for design associate in Washington is $66,325.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,900.00 and $77,000.00 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 Washington? The most popular types of Design jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Design Associate jobs in Washington? For Design Associate jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Design Associate jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Design Associate jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Design Associate jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Design Associate job openings:
Design Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Design Associate job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,325 per year, or $31.9 per hour.
Land Development Engineer - Lead Designer

Land Development Engineer - Lead Designer

Rinker Design Associates

Manassas, VA

$75K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Description
Rinker Design Associates, LLC (RDA) is a multi-discipline civil engineering firm dedicated to providing innovative, high-quality solutions to both public and private sector clients. With a collaborative and client-focused approach, RDA delivers excellence in transportation, land development, survey and many other services throughout the state of Virginia.

RDA is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Land Development Engineer to join our growing team. The ideal candidate will have experience in site-civil design, including grading, stormwater management, utilities, and erosion and sediment control, and will play a critical role in the planning and execution of residential, commercial, and mixed-use land development projects.
$10,000 sign-on bonus!
Go beyond the job description: Uncover projects that ignite your passion. Site Civil Northern VA

What You'll Do:
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams for the design of land development projects from initial concept through construction administration
  • Design and prepare technical documents in AutoCAD Civil 3D software
  • Assist in project management tasks, including cost estimation, scheduling, and resource allocation.
  • Assist in all aspects of the design including (but not limited to):
    • Legislative Applications and Site Plans
    • Storm Sewer design including SWM/BMP
    • Water and Sanitary Sewer system design
    • Compliance with local zoning ordinances and facility design standards
    • Erosion and sediment control plans and design E&S control measures in accordance with state criteria
  • Provide technical support and guidance to junior engineers and other team members. 

What You'll Need:
  • A Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering
  • 4-8 years of experience in Land Development/Site-Civil engineering
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license or Engineer-In-Training (EIT) with the intention to obtain a PE within 1 year
  • Proficiency in AutoCAD Civil3D
  • Familiarity with local codes, standards, and permitting processes. 
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.

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.