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Design Associate Jobs in Irvine, CA (NOW HIRING)

Associate degree in Design, Drafting, Architecture, Construction, or a related field preferred. * Two years of relevant experience may be considered in lieu of formal education. * Previous experience ...

Design/BIM Technician

Brea, CA · On-site

$26 - $28/hr

Associate degree in Design, Drafting, Architecture, Construction, or a related field preferred. * Two years of relevant experience may be considered in lieu of formal education. * Previous experience ...

Design/BIM Technician

Brea, CA · On-site

$70 - $100/hr

Associate degree in Design, Drafting, Architecture, Construction, or a related field preferred. * Two years of relevant experience may be considered in lieu of formal education. * Previous experience ...

Design/BIM Technician

Brea, CA · On-site

$26 - $28/hr

Associate degree in Design, Drafting, Architecture, Construction, or a related field preferred. * Two years of relevant experience may be considered in lieu of formal education. * Previous experience ...

Design/BIM Coordinator

Brea, CA · On-site +1

$29 - $45/hr

Associate degree in Design, Drafting, Architecture, Construction, or a related field preferred. * Three years of relevant experience may be considered in lieu of formal education. * Experience with ...

Design/BIM Coordinator

Brea, CA · On-site

$75 - $95/hr

Associate degree in Design, Drafting, Architecture, Construction, or a related field preferred. * Three years of relevant experience may be considered in lieu of formal education. * Experience with ...

Design/BIM Coordinator

Brea, CA · On-site

$29 - $45/hr

Associate degree in Design, Drafting, Architecture, Construction, or a related field preferred. * Three years of relevant experience may be considered in lieu of formal education. * Experience with ...

Design/BIM Coordinator

Brea, CA · On-site

$29 - $45/hr

Associate degree in Design, Drafting, Architecture, Construction, or a related field preferred. * Three years of relevant experience may be considered in lieu of formal education. * Experience with ...

High School Diploma required, Associate or Bachelor Degree in design or equivalent experience preferred. * One (1) year of design experience preferred. * Strong computer skills including Adobe ...

The Design Consultant works closely with the customer in the design center/studio, remotely, online ... Valid driver's license, except in limited circumstances in which the associate can establish to the ...

Associates or Bachelor's Degree in Engineering * Hands‑on experience in building engineering prototypes * Strong problem‑solving, organizational, and analytical skills * Autodesk Inventor CAD ...

Associates or Bachelor's Degree in Engineering * Hands-on experience in building engineering prototypes * Strong problem-solving, organizational, and analytical skills * Autodesk Inventor CAD Design ...

Showing results 41-60

Design Associate information

See Irvine, CA salary details

$20.9K

$62.9K

$93.9K

How much do design associate jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for design associate in Irvine, CA is $62,858.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,100.00 and $73,000.00 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 Irvine, CA?

The most popular types of Design jobs in Irvine, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Design Associate jobs in Irvine, CA?

For Design Associate jobs in Irvine, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Irvine, CA are hiring for Design Associate jobs?

Cities near Irvine, CA with the most Design Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Design Associate job openings in Irvine, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,858 per year, or $30.2 per hour.

Design Consultant, RH Channel

Waterworks

Newport Beach, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

About Waterworks
When you see the world's most inspiring homes and hotels, you invariably find Waterworks in the mix. For over 40 years, our designs have elevated the bath and kitchen experience, with exquisite fittings, fixtures, hardware and more. We strive to be participants in exceptional design moments not just through our products, but through how our company name shows up in the world at large. 
 
What We Provide
What gives us an edge over our competitors is our people. We work in a highly collaborative, creative environment that values each team member's contributions to our mission. We empower our associates with extensive training, career growth opportunities, competitive salaries, bonus potential and a comprehensive benefits package including medical/dental/vision, and 401k retirement savings plan. We offer a generous PTO program (vacation, personal and sick time) with additional perks like some summer half days and a volunteer day.  The company observes at least 8 federal holidays throughout the calendar year plus a floating holiday that associates can use at their discretion.

The Role

The role partners closely with RH Gallery teams and Waterworks stakeholders to drive sales, strengthen brand presence, and deliver an exceptional luxury client experience to trade clients.

This position is responsible for business development, in-gallery support, and cross-functional collaboration to grow demand for through RH and the broader trade network.

This is an onsite role in the Newport Beach Gallery.

Responsibilities

Gallery Support & Client Experience

  • Serve as the in-gallery Waterworks product expert, supporting consultations and increasing team selling confidence.
  • Train and educate RH associates on Waterworks products and solutions.
  • Maintain Waterworks visual merchandising and brand presentation standards within the gallery.
  • Deliver an exceptional luxury client experience aligned with Waterworks and RH brand values.

Operations & Business Management

  • Manage project pipelines and register opportunities in accordance with Client Management guidelines.
  • Plan and execute marketing activities, ensuring accurate and timely CRM documentation.
  • Review account performance, marketing strategies, and revenue goals on a regular cadence.
  • Track progress through field reports, outreach activity, and pipeline updates.

Sales & Partnership Development

  • Partner with RH Gallery Leaders and associates to drive sales of Waterworks through the gallery channel.
  • Build and maintain strong relationships to grow Waterworks and RH preferred vendor status.
  • Meet or exceed goals related to lead generation, opportunity development, quotes, and orders.

Market Development & Trade Outreach

  • Establish and grow relationships with architects, interior designers, builders, and plumbers to generate demand in Southern California.  
  • Present the Waterworks product portfolio to drive specifications and project opportunities.
  • Participate in industry events, CEUs, networking engagements, and site visits to expand market presence.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

  • Partner with RH Channel leaders internal Waterworks  cross-functional teams to develop tools and resources for RH sales consultants.
  • Liaise between corporate teams and partner sales consultants, facilitating regular communication and alignment.
  • With the RH Channel Leader, recommend and define and implement operational processes that uphold the Waterworks brand and meet partner needs.
  • Model Waterworks values across all interactions and partnerships.

Additional Responsibilities

  • Contribute to initiatives that strengthen the Waterworks RH partnership and overall gallery success.
  • Demonstrate flexibility with scheduling, including evenings, weekends, and travel as required.
  • Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.
Requirements
  • 3+ years of sales, business development, or client-facing experience, ideally within luxury home, design, cabinetry, plumbing, tile, or related categories.

  • Proven track record of meeting or exceeding sales goals.

  • Excellent communication, presentation, and influencing skills with the ability to support both clients and trade professionals.

  • Experience with architects, designers, builders, or trades professionals strongly preferred.

  • Digitally proficient; comfortable with Microsoft Office, CRM platforms, and related sales tools.

  • Highly organized, self-driven, and capable of managing multiple client projects simultaneously.

  • Passion for design, craftsmanship, and the Waterworks brand.

  • Marketing outside of the gallery up to 50%

  • Working knowledge of cabinetry design or plumbing fixtures preferred.

  • Schedule is Monday-Friday 9am-5pm, with flexibility required per business need.
$70,000 - $80,000 a year
Plus generous incentive bonus.
Our Values
Be Authentic: Engage in real conversations. Communicate honestly with respect and professionalism.
Raise The Bar: Share ideas to uphold our standard of excellence. Never settle for less than the best.
Own It: Be responsible for your results. Empower yourself and others to step forward and lead.
Partner For Perfection: Collaborate with peers and teammates to deliver superior service to our clients.
Love What You Do & Do What You Love: Generate excitement and enthusiasm for our brand and company.

Waterworks is committed to promoting pay equity. Rate of pay is determined based on each individual's experience, qualifications, and the geographic location of the role. Final offer amounts are determined by multiple factors including candidate experience and expertise and may vary from the amounts listed above.

Waterworks is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, marital status, age, disability, sexual orientation, military/veteran status, or any other status protected by federal or state law or local ordinance.

Waterworks may require physical requirements within its Showroom locations as follows:
Ability to lift and mobilize small to medium items up to 25 lbs. while utilizing appropriate equipment and techniques. Ability to maneuver effectively around showroom floor, stock room and office. Position could entail periods of standing, twisting, stooping, kneeling, squatting, bending and climbing. Licensed to drive preferred. Ability to travel locally or out of state.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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