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Design Associate Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Drake & Company

Be Seen First

CAD Designer -SG8103

Madison, WI · On-site

$45K - $56K/yr

Associate's degree in engineering, industrial design, CAD or related. * Experience: Two years' experience with materials selection, manufacturing processes, statics/dynamics as well as computer-aided ...

Dashiell Corportaion

CAD Technician

Madison, WI

Perform other duties as assigned Minimum Qualifications / Experience Associate degree in drafting & design is required. A certificate in CAD drafting & design with relevant work experience may be ...

Dashiell

CAD Technician

Madison, WI · On-site

Perform other duties as assigned Minimum Qualifications / Experience Associate degree in drafting & design is required. A certificate in CAD drafting & design with relevant work experience may be ...

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All JobsDesign Associate JobsDesign Associate Jobs in Madison, WI

Design Associate information

See Madison, WI salary details

$19.6K

$59K

$88.2K

How much do design associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for design associate in Madison, WI is $59,007.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,900.00 and $68,500.00 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 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Design jobs in Madison, WI? The most popular types of Design jobs in Madison, WI are:
What are popular job titles related to Design Associate jobs in Madison, WI? For Design Associate jobs in Madison, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Design Associate jobs in Madison, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Design Associate jobs in Madison, WI are:
What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Design Associate jobs? Cities near Madison, WI with the most Design Associate job openings:
Design Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Design Associate job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 63% Full Time, 34% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,007 per year, or $28.4 per hour.

Civil Technician - Transportation Design

Ayres Associates

Madison, WI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Finding the right fit:
Ayres is seeking a confident and skilled design technician to be a key contributor in the delivery of transportation related projects for our many public and private clients. As a part of our transportation division within Ayres, you will have the opportunity to work with highly experienced roadway, structure, traffic, and construction project managers and engineering staff working on a wide variety of projects ranging from two-lane rural roadways to complex system interchanges. You will also be supported by your supervisor as well as upper management to help ensure as much success as possible.
Join Ayres - a USA TODAY Top Workplace recognized in both 2025 and 2026 - where people-first leadership, collaboration, and professional growth create an environment where great teams do their best work.
We're also excited to celebrate a recent regional honor as a 2026 Madison Top Workplace, a testament to the strength of our people and our culture.
On any given day, you'll:
  • Collaborate with a design team to discuss project objectives, challenges and identify design strategies to provide our clients with smart, creative, solutions.
  • Perform the geometric design and other design tasks for roadway improvement projects in conformance with applicable design standards, Ayres Associates quality standards, and requirements of the contract.
  • Prepare final plan detailing and assist with the computation of plan quantities.
  • Assist in the preparation of various design reports.
  • Participate in regular group meetings to review and coordinate project schedules and deliverables.
  • Participate in internal or external Civil 3D/AutoCAD users committee discussions to develop and manage current standards and practices.
  • Mentor less experienced staff.
  • Build and maintain respectful working relationships with fellow co-workers within the company.
  • Participate in office-wide, social events.

Required Qualifications
  • A minimum of 2 years of experience consisting of transportation related design.
  • Experience and proficient with Civil 3D, AutoCAD (preferred) and/or other similar roadway design software.
  • A valid driver's license with a good driving record.

Desired Skills and Experiences:
  • Enthusiastic focus and interest in the use of roadway design software for the development and delivery of creative design solutions and quality final deliverables.
  • Experience and knowledge of Wisconsin Department of Transportation design process.
  • Experience with 3D Roadway modeling is a plus.
  • An interest and willingness to be challenged to allow for consistent personal development and growth.
  • A desire to build the Ayres Associates brand at professional meetings/conferences locally, statewide, and potentially nationally as a subject matter expert.

Benefits of being part of the Ayres team:
  • Health, dental, and vision Insurance.
  • Short and long-term disability and life insurance.
  • Employee stock ownership plan (ESOP) and 401K with company match.
  • PTO upon hire, paid holidays including two floating holidays, and a flexible work schedule.
  • Professional development opportunities.

Please note, benefits vary depending on job status. To learn more about our great benefits, visit our website at https://www.ayresassociates.com/careers/the-ayres-advantage/
Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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