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Design Associate Jobs in Ladera Ranch, CA (NOW HIRING)

Carlsmed

Design Associate

Carlsbad, CA

$29 - $32/hr

As a Design Associate, you will contribute to developing proprietary implants, instrumentation, and design automation systems to enable personalized surgery. Responsibilities * Import and analyze ...

Carlsmed

Design Associate

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$29 - $32/hr

As a Design Associate, you will contribute to developing proprietary implants, instrumentation, and design automation systems to enable personalized surgery. Responsibilities * Import and analyze ...

Carlsmed

Design Associate

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$29 - $32/hr

As a Design Associate, you will contribute to developing proprietary implants, instrumentation, and design automation systems to enable personalized surgery. Responsibilities * Import and analyze ...

Greens

Interior Design Associate

Irvine, CA

$65K - $78K/yr

Own the execution of design deliverables across all project phases, ensuring quality, timeliness, and alignment with Greens' standards and client expectations. * Collaborate closely with the Vice ...

Greens

Interior Design Associate

Irvine, CA · On-site

$65K - $78K/yr

Own the execution of design deliverables across all project phases, ensuring quality, timeliness, and alignment with Greens' standards and client expectations. * Collaborate closely with the Vice ...

Morrison Interiors

Interior Design Intern

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

A Design Associate is learning the design process and developing the technical skills by collaborating with the team in all phases of the design process. * A Junior Designer is fine tuning the ...

Floor & Decor Holdings, Inc.

Design Supervisor

Orange, CA · On-site

$19 - $36.50/hr

The Design Supervisor is responsible for the training and development of the design team, and for ... Paid vacation and sick time for eligible associates * Paid holidays plus a personal holiday * Paid ...

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Design Associate information

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$20.7K

$62.3K

$93K

How much do design associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for design associate in Ladera Ranch, CA is $62,252.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,600.00 and $72,300.00 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 Ladera Ranch, CA?

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

What job categories do people searching Design Associate jobs in Ladera Ranch, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Design Associate jobs in Ladera Ranch, CA are:

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

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

Design Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Design Associate job openings in Ladera Ranch, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 64% Full Time, 33% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,252 per year, or $29.9 per hour.

Design Associate

Carlsbad, CA

Carlsmed
11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Carlsmedexternal

$29 - $32/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

About Carlsmed


Our mission is to improve outcomes and decrease the cost of healthcare for spine surgery and beyond. The Carlsmed aprevo personalized surgery platform is designed to improve the standard of care for spine surgery one patient at a time.


Position Description


Carlsmed is seeking a Design Associate to join our team. Our mission is to utilize data to create personalized surgical plans and medical devices to greatly improve the standard of care for debilitating conditions. As a Design Associate, you will contribute to developing proprietary implants, instrumentation, and design automation systems to enable personalized surgery.


Responsibilities


  • Import and analyze patient CT data
  • Perform complex 3D modeling of patient anatomy and implants
  • Collaborate with engineers, designers, and clinical specialists to complete designs
  • Create surface and solid CAD models according to specifications
  • Work with a design team and individually on CAD projects
  • Review and adjust CAD models with the customer
  • Interface with key production and testing suppliers
  • Produce Design Control documentation
  • Complete job reports
  • Other Research and Design activities as determined by management


Qualifications


  • Associate degree in a technical field or equivalent experience
  • Visual-spatial skills - job requires working with complex 3D models in space
  • CAD, art, architecture, industrial design, or similar experience suitable
  • Experience in medical device sector or related field highly desired


Skills


  • Expertise with 3D modeling or similar
  • Ability to understand anatomy
  • Keen eye for detail
  • Excellent time management skills
  • Excellent verbal and written communication
  • Desire to excel in a fast-paced MedTech startup


Equal Opportunity Employer


Carlsmed is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status. Carlsmed is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for candidates with disabilities in our recruiting process. If you need any assistance or accommodations due to a disability, please let us know.


Compensation


The anticipated hourly rate for this position is $29.00 - $32.00. Individual compensation is determined based on factors such as experience, skills, education, certifications, and geographic location.


In addition to base salary, eligible employees may participate in incentive compensation programs and receive a comprehensive benefits package. Our benefits reflect our commitment to the health and well-being of our employees and their families and include 100% employer-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance premiums, a 401(k) plan with employer matching, and unlimited paid time off (PTO). Your recruiter can provide additional details about our total rewards package during the hiring process.

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