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Design Associate Jobs in Aurora, IL (NOW HIRING)

MERGE

Associate Creative Director - Design

Chicago, IL · On-site

$129K/yr

Associate Creative Director (Design) As Associate Creative Director (Design), you will shape the digital and physical visual narrative for a fast-paced retail account [major Quick-Service Restaurant ...

HDR

Associate Design Principal

Chicago, IL · On-site

In the role of Associate Design Principal, we'll count on you to: * Take responsibility for creative concepts/solutions for complex architectural projects * Meet directly with the owner/client ...

HDR

Associate Design Principal

Chicago, IL · On-site

In the role of Associate Design Principal, we'll count on you to: * Take responsibility for creative concepts/solutions for complex architectural projects * Meet directly with the owner/client ...

eth

Retail Interior Design Sales Leader

Naperville, IL · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

We believe our associates are our greatest brand ambassadors, and we value talent, entrepreneurial ... Actively coach design team associates to raise professionalism of the design services and assist ...

eth

Retail Interior Design Sales Leader

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

We believe our associates are our greatest brand ambassadors, and we value talent, entrepreneurial ... Actively coach design team associates to raise professionalism of the design services and assist ...

eth

Retail Interior Design Sales Leader

Naperville, IL · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

We believe our associates are our greatest brand ambassadors, and we value talent, entrepreneurial ... Actively coach design team associates to raise professionalism of the design services and assist ...

eth

Retail Interior Design Sales Leader

Naperville, IL · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

We believe our associates are our greatest brand ambassadors, and we value talent, entrepreneurial ... Actively coach design team associates to raise professionalism of the design services and assist ...

eth

Retail Interior Design Sales Leader

Naperville, IL

$70K - $80K/yr

We believe our associates are our greatest brand ambassadors, and we value talent, entrepreneurial ... Actively coach design team associates to raise professionalism of the design services and assist ...

eth

Retail Interior Design Sales Leader

Naperville, IL · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

We believe our associates are our greatest brand ambassadors, and we value talent, entrepreneurial ... Actively coach design team associates to raise professionalism of the design services and assist ...

eth

Retail Interior Design Sales Leader

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

We believe our associates are our greatest brand ambassadors, and we value talent, entrepreneurial ... Actively coach design team associates to raise professionalism of the design services and assist ...

eth

Retail Interior Design Sales Leader

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

We believe our associates are our greatest brand ambassadors, and we value talent, entrepreneurial ... Actively coach design team associates to raise professionalism of the design services and assist ...

eth

Retail Interior Design Sales Leader

Oak Brook, IL

$70K - $80K/yr

We believe our associates are our greatest brand ambassadors, and we value talent, entrepreneurial ... Actively coach design team associates to raise professionalism of the design services and assist ...

eth

Retail Interior Design Sales Leader

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

We believe our associates are our greatest brand ambassadors, and we value talent, entrepreneurial ... Actively coach design team associates to raise professionalism of the design services and assist ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsDesign Associate JobsDesign Associate Jobs in Aurora, IL

Design Associate information

See Aurora, IL salary details

$19.3K

$58.1K

$86.8K

How much do design associate jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for design associate in Aurora, IL is $58,059.00, 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 is a design associate?

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 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 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 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 20 careers in design?

Design associates can pursue careers in graphic design, interior design, industrial design, fashion design, web design, user experience (UX) design, user interface (UI) design, animation, product design, landscape design, architectural design, textile design, game design, exhibit design, branding, packaging design, furniture design, visual merchandising, illustration, motion graphics, and CAD drafting. Many roles require proficiency with design software such as Adobe Creative Suite or CAD tools and may involve collaboration with clients or teams. Certifications or degrees in design or related fields can enhance job prospects in these careers.

What are the most commonly searched types of Design jobs in Aurora, IL?

The most popular types of Design jobs in Aurora, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Design Associate jobs in Aurora, IL?

For Design Associate jobs in Aurora, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Design Associate jobs in Aurora, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Design Associate jobs in Aurora, IL are:

What cities near Aurora, IL are hiring for Design Associate jobs?

Cities near Aurora, IL with the most Design Associate job openings:

Design Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Design Associate job openings in Aurora, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,059 per year, or $27.9 per hour.

Associate Creative Director - Design

Chicago, IL • On-site

MERGE
See more jobs at MERGEexternal

$129K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

At MERGE, we are Built Different. We are a marketing and technology agency purpose-built for the intersection of health and wellness-where human impact matters most. By weaving storytelling through technology, we move beyond traditional engagement to Whole Human Marketing. This approach recognizes that humans are multidimensional and complex, and uses AI to ensure every brand interaction feels natural, contextual, and relevant.
This commitment to human-first innovation is what brings us together and propels us forward. We are united by our North Star: to unite people and brands to empower healthier, happier lives.
Emerge to the Top of Your Career
At MERGE, we strive to create a superior work experience where talented and ambitious people grow. An experience that encourages people to think higher and feel deeper. An experience where people engage their minds and hearts to do the best work of their careers.
Associate Creative Director (Design)
As Associate Creative Director (Design), you will shape the digital and physical visual narrative for a fast-paced retail account [major Quick-Service Restaurant (QSR) account]. You are a digitally forward design lead-equally comfortable setting high-level creative vision, implementing and guiding design systems, and hands-on execution across dynamic digital touchpoints, retail environments, and integrated campaigns.
What You'll Do
  • As a core member of the team, you'll craft visually compelling designs, ensuring a consistent and premium presence across diverse channels
  • Produce high-quality assets across digital and animated menu boards, packaging, in-restaurant signage, mobile apps, and web, ensuring pixel-perfect accuracy and timely delivery within budget constraints.
  • Strategically apply design systems across various touchpoints to ensure cohesive and unified execution.
  • Engage in all facets of design, from quick comping and creating design systems to type treatments, consistently delivering polished design solutions
  • Work seamlessly with client-side digital and development teams to create best-in-class UX/UI experiences
  • Articulate the underlying strategy behind design projects, emphasizing the rationale ("why") over the deliverables ("what") to all team members
  • Work seamlessly with the creative team, account managers, developers, studio designers, and most importantly, clients, fostering a collaborative and synergistic environment
  • Guide and inspire other designers by providing valuable direction
  • Has a strong understanding of copy direction and its emotional impact on design
  • Design and/or direct design efforts across multiple mediums and touchpoints, ensuring consistency and alignment with strategic goals
  • You are responsible for holistic project lifecycles-from interpreting high-level business objectives into pixel-perfect execution and measurable post-launch success

Qualifications
  • 8+ years of design experience within an ad agency, digital shop, or creative studio, with a portfolio showcasing strong digital, responsive, and cross-channel work
  • Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Digital Design, UI/UX, or equivalent practical experience
  • Proficiency in Figma (auto-layout, components, prototyping) alongside deep mastery of the Adobe Creative Suite
  • Design System Experience: Proven track record of designing digital and physical experiences using component-based design systems. Across both digital platforms and physical/print retail environments
  • Demonstrated ability to manage, inspire, and direct a team of designers while managing multiple fast-paced projects simultaneously
  • Prior experience with QSR, fast-casual, or high-volume retail brands is a major plus

#LI-
#LI-HYBRID
At MERGE, we're committed to fostering an environment where our team members can thrive in both their careers and personal lives, ensuring they feel supported and empowered to succeed.
MERGE believes in transparency and equity. In accordance with state regulations, we're proud to include salary ranges in our job postings to ensure fair compensation practices.
The salary range for this role is $88,450 - $129,750, based on the individual's skills, experience, qualifications, location, and other relevant factors. The salary pay range is subject to change and may be modified at any time.
MERGE is proud to invest in benefits that include meaningful Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, 401K, Lifestyle Spending Account, Employer Paid Life & Disability Insurance, Flexible Time off & Holidays plus many other benefits and rewards.
Applicants for employment in the US must have work authorization that does not now or in the future require sponsorship of a visa for employment authorization in the United States.
And here's how we live our values at MERGE
  • Ability. Mastering our craft
  • Agility. Delivering with a growth mindset
  • Humility. Collaborating for shared success

MERGE is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer
MERGE welcomes and celebrates diversity regardless of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, veteran status or people with abilities. We believe that the more diverse we are, the more creative our work will be!

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