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Design Associate Jobs in Aurora, IL (NOW HIRING)

Kimley-Horn

Design Technician - Natural Gas

Chicago, IL · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

Overview Kimley-Horn is looking for an Experienced CAD Operator to join our Natural Gas team in ... High school diploma or equivalent (Associates degree preferred) * 3+ years of relevant experience

Stantec

Design Coordinator - Retail

Chicago, IL · On-site

$79K - $114K/yr

You will be developing space plans, site plans, and design and construction documents based on ... LEED Green Associate or LEED AP preferred. * Architecture licensure preferred but not required.

suncast

CAD Drafter

Batavia, IL

$60K - $75K/yr

Associate's degree in Drafting, Design Technology, or a related technical field required. * Working knowledge of 2D and 3D CAD software, with SolidWorks experience preferred. * Ability to read ...

suncast

CAD Drafter

Batavia, IL · On-site

$60K - $75K/yr

Associate's degree in Drafting, Design Technology, or a related technical field required. * Working knowledge of 2D and 3D CAD software, with SolidWorks experience preferred. * Ability to read ...

Suncast

CAD Drafter

Batavia, IL · On-site

$60K - $75K/yr

Associate's degree in Drafting, Design Technology, or a related technical field required. * Working knowledge of 2D and 3D CAD software, with SolidWorks experience preferred. * Ability to read ...

Geneva, City of (IL)

CAD Administrator

Geneva, IL

$99K - $110K/yr

If you are skilled in managing and maintaining a CAD system, are technically adept, and want to ... Must be 21 years of age Associate's degree from an accredited college or university in Computer ...

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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 12, 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.

Design Technician - Natural Gas

Chicago, IL • On-site

Kimley-Horn
Specialized Design Services • 5 - 10K employees
Learn more about Kimley-Hornexternal

$70K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 21 days ago

Kimley-Horn rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 87 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Overview

Kimley-Horn is looking for an Experienced CAD Operator to join our Natural Gas team in Chicago, Illinois (IL)!

Responsibilities
  • The person in this position will make and quality check drawings and plans for gas distribution and pipeline design
  • Metering and regulation station designs 
  • Has knowledge of engineering principles and suggests design changes
  • Maintains drawing database
  • May supervise and train CAD staff
  • Develop familiarity with Kimley-Horn's practices, procedures, and standards
Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent (Associates degree preferred)
  • 3+ years of relevant experience
  • Advanced knowledge and proficiency in Autodesk or Bentley products (CADWorx Preferred)
  • Detail oriented, professional attitude, good communication, team player, self-starter
  • Strong work ethic, interpersonal communication/writing skills and desire to learn
  • Ability to work independently and with a team

Salary Range: $70,000 - $100,000

Why Kimley-Horn?

At Kimley-Horn, we do things differently. People, clients, and employees are at the forefront of who we are. Clients know we prioritize achieving their goals and growing their success. Employees know our culture and approach to business are built on a desire to provide an environment for everyone to flourish. Our commitment to quality is only as good as the people behind it- that's why we welcome and develop passionate, hardworking, and proactive employees. We take pride in how our employee retention, robust benefits package, and company values have led to Kimley-Horn's placement on the Fortune "100 Best Companies to Work" list for 19 years!

Key Benefits at Kimley-Horn

  • Exceptional Retirement Plan: 2-to1- company match on up to 4% of eligible compensation (salary + bonus) and additional profit-sharing contribution.
  • Comprehensive Health Coverage: Low-cost medical, dental, and vision insurance options.
  • Time Off: Personal leave, flexible scheduling, floating holidays, and half-day Fridays.
  • Financial Wellness: Student loan matching in our 401(k), and performance-based bonuses.
  • Professional Development: Tuition reimbursement and extensive internal training programs.
  • Family-Friendly Benefits: New Parent Leave, family building benefits, and childcare resources.
Education:High School Diploma/GEDEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

What Kimley-Horn employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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About Kimley-Horn

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We are a full-service consulting firm that provides a wide range of infrastructure and land development planning and engineering services to both public and private clients. Though we have more than 6,000 employees in 100+ offices, we pride ourselves on our small company feel. At Kimley-Horn, we do things differently. People--clients and employees--are at the forefront of our business. Clients know we are laser-focused on their success. Employees know our culture and approach to business are built on a desire to see our staff flourish, one and all. Both groups know that with Kimley-Horn, they can expect more and experience better.

Industry

Specialized design services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Raleigh, NC, US

Year founded

1967

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