1

Design Associate Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

In the role of Associate Design Principal, we'll count on you to: * Develop highly innovative, creative, integrated and effective design solutions. * Bring a strong design portfolio and developing ...

In the role of Associate Design Principal, we'll count on you to: * Develop highly innovative, creative, integrated and effective design solutions. * Bring a strong design portfolio and developing ...

Design elements include electrical design, component selection, simulation/test, PCB layout, and product functional specification. Will be part of an engineering team that is involved with complete ...

Associate Design Engineer

Andover, MA · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Design elements include electrical design, component selection, simulation/test, PCB layout, and product functional specification. Will be part of an engineering team that is involved with complete ...

Design elements include electrical design, component selection, simulation/test, PCB layout, and product functional specification. Will be part of an engineering team that is involved with complete ...

Sr. Associate, Retail Design & Experience

Boston, MA · On-site

$16.25 - $19.50/hr

Sr. Associate, Retail Design & Experience Country: United States of America It Starts Here: Santander is a global leader and innovator in the financial services industry and is evolving from a high ...

We foster a culture in which every associate feels welcomed and respected, where leaders and ... The Instructional Design Manager is a working manager responsible for designing, developing, and ...

With a team of more than 8,000 associates spanning 130 store and distribution locations across the ... The Design Coordinator supports the design experience by organizing and managing appointments ...

Manager - Instructional Design

Boston, MA · On-site

$100K - $129K/yr

We foster a culture in which every associate feels welcomed and respected, where leaders and ... The Instructional Design Manager is a working manager responsible for designing, developing, and ...

With a team of more than 8,000 associates spanning 130 store and distribution locations across the ... The Design Coordinator supports the design experience by organizing and managing appointments ...

Design Consultant

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

Title: Design Consultant Location: Cambridge, MA Compensation: The base salary range for this ... Associate or bachelor's Degree in a related field preferred or equivalent experience. WHY WORK AT ...

Design Consultant

Newton, MA · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

Design Consultant Location: Newton, MA Compensation: The base salary range for this position is $65 ... Associate or bachelor's Degree in a related field preferred or equivalent experience. WHY WORK AT ...

Title: Design Consultant Location: Cambridge, MA Compensation: The base salary range for this ... Associate or bachelors Degree in a related field preferred or equivalent experience. WHY WORK AT ...

Design Consultant

Chestnut Hill, MA · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

Design Consultant Location: Newton, MA Compensation: The base salary range for this position is $65 ... Associate or bachelors Degree in a related field preferred or equivalent experience. WHY WORK AT ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Design Associate information

See Boston, MA salary details

$21.2K

$63.7K

$95.2K

How much do design associate jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for design associate in Boston, MA is $63,698.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,800.00 and $74,000.00 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 Boston, MA? The most popular types of Design jobs in Boston, MA are:
What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Design Associate jobs? Cities near Boston, MA with the most Design Associate job openings:
Associate Design Principal

Associate Design Principal

HDR

Boston, MA • On-site

Other

Posted 18 days ago


HDR rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 357 rated engineering


Job description

At HDR, our employee-owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected, a place where everyone is empowered to bring their authentic selves and novel ideas to work every day. As we foster a culture of inclusion throughout our company and within our communities, we constantly ask ourselves: What is our impact on the world?
Watch Our Story:' https://www.hdrinc.com/our-story' 
At HDR, we specialize in engineering, architecture, environmental and construction services. While we are most well-known for adding beauty and structure to communities through high-performance buildings and smart infrastructure, we provide much more than that. We create an unshakable foundation for progress because our multidisciplinary teams also include scientists, economists, builders, analysts and artists. That's why we believe diversity is our greatest strength. HDR is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and an affirmative action employer.
We believe that the way we work can add meaning and value to the world. That ideas inspire positive change. That coloring outside the lines can illuminate fresh perspectives. And that small details yield important realizations. Above all, we believe that collaboration is the best way forward.
We believe architecture is more than designing buildings, it's about providing solutions to societal challenges and creating stronger, more vibrant communities. As part of our Architecture practice at HDR, you'll contribute to the design and delivery of spaces and experiences that advance community well-being around the world. From healing environments and learning spaces to research labs and civic landmarks and infrastructure, your work will directly influence how individuals experience the world around them. We bring together architects, planners, designers, and technical experts to solve complex design challenges with creativity, curiosity, and collaboration. From championing design excellence with an emphasis on resilience and sustainability to pioneering innovative building technologies, your contributions will leave a lasting impact on the built environment. This isn't just a job, it's a chance to drive meaningful change and help define the future of our communities.

We are currently searching for an Associate Design Principal for our Boston office who is a talented design leader looking to lead across the firm to help us raise the floor and ceiling of our design capabilities through leadership of design dialogue, culture, and design excellence across our practice. In the role of Associate Design Principal, we'll count on you to:

  • Develop highly innovative, creative, integrated and effective design solutions. 
  • Bring a strong design portfolio and developing reputation demonstrated through design work, awards, publications, education or other venues, with positive client references. 
  • Guide initial design concepts and ideas from pursuit and selection through successful project completion on multiple projects. 
  • Set and support teams to meet design excellence goals while considering management goals and project budgets. 
  • Have the aptitude and initiative to teach and train other designers and interdisciplinary AE project teams in the essentials of design excellence and in the critical tenets of HDR's Design Philosophy. 
  • Effective in mentoring and developing junior design staff, challenging, inspiring and/or motivating others to join in the constant pursuit of design excellence.
  • Be a contributing design leader at HDR with the vision and attitude to grow and lead design efforts, including collaborating across multiple offices, while effectively partnering with project management and key leaders on all efforts. 
  • Identify, attract and retain key design staff, identifying and developing skills of internal design talent as well.
  • Must be active in local, national and/or international professional design related organizations.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Master's Degree in Architecture or closely related field.
  • 10+ years experience functioning as a lead designer on a variety of project scales and complexities.
  • Professional architectural registration.
  • Experience in institutional clients in Healthcare, Civic, Education, Science, and Transportation Architecture ideal
  • Proven record of winning project pursuits and maintaining strong client relationships.
  • Experience and/or interest in integrating sustainable building design.
  • Excellent leadership and mentoring skills.
  • Excellent writing and communication skills.
  • Must be capable of leading a team and making client presentations.
  • Ability to collaborate and integrate with existing team.
  • Preference given to candidates currently residing in the greater Boston area
  • An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee

#LI-MJ1

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Architecture or closely related field
  • A minimum of 10 years experience
  • Registered Architect
  • Experience with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Project Schedule)
  • Excellent written and communication skills
  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Proficient in use of Autodesk Revit and familiarity with related tools and process
  • Demonstrated graphic presentation skills
  • Strong knowledge of codes and good planning skills
  • An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee-owned culture is a must

What We Believe
HDR is our company. Together, we build on each other's life experiences and perspectives to make great things possible every day. This shapes our collaborative culture, encourages organizational trust and connects us closer to the clients and communities we serve.
Our Commitment
As employee owners, we all have a role in creating an inclusive environment where each of us is welcomed, valued, respected and empowered to bring our authentic selves to work every day.
Our eight Employee Network Groups (Asian Pacific, Black, Hispanic/Latino(a), LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Veterans, Women, Young Professionals) help create a sense of belonging and foster a supportive environment where everyone is empowered to engage and contribute. Each group has an executive sponsor and is open to all employees.


What HDR employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


HDR logo

About HDR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At HDR, we specialize in engineering, architecture, environmental and construction services. While we are most well-known for adding beauty and structure to communities through high-performance buildings and smart infrastructure, we provide much more than that. We create an unshakable foundation for progress because our multidisciplinary teams also include scientists, economists, builders, analysts and artists.

Industry

Specialized design services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Omaha, NE, US

Year founded

1917