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Design Associate Jobs in Nanaimo, BC (NOW HIRING)

Smith + Andersen

Associate

Nanaimo, BC · Hybrid

CA$110K - CA$140K/yr

Associate - Electrical Location: Nanaimo, BC Job Type: Hybrid - WFH + In Office Salary Range: $110 ... You're glad to collaborate with your team as you take on challenges and create innovative design ...

Essilor

Sales Associate

Nanaimo, BC · On-site

LensCrafters is part of EssilorLuxottica, a global leader in the design, manufacture and ... GENERAL FUNCTION The Sales Associate sets the standard of quality in eye care and eyewear by ...

EssilorLuxottica Group

Sales Associate

Nanaimo, BC · On-site

LensCrafters is part of EssilorLuxottica, a global leader in the design, manufacture and ... GENERAL FUNCTION The Sales Associate sets the standard of quality in eye care and eyewear by ...

EssilorLuxottica Group

Sales Associate

Nanaimo, BC · On-site

Sunglass Hut is part of EssilorLuxottica, a global leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of world-class vision care products, including iconic eyewear, advanced lens technology and ...

Essilor

Sales Associate

Nanaimo, BC · On-site

Sunglass Hut is part of EssilorLuxottica, a global leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of world-class vision care products, including iconic eyewear, advanced lens technology and ...

Smith + Andersen

Project Manager - Electrical

Nanaimo, BC · On-site +1

CA$90K - CA$125K/yr

Review and manages the design in terms of construction budgets. * Perform or arrange reviews of ... Where requested by the Principal-in-charge or Associate Principal, act as a contract administrator ...

All JobsDesign Associate JobsDesign Associate Jobs in Nanaimo, BC

Design Associate information

See Nanaimo, BC salary details

$22.2K

$47.8K

$83.2K

How much do design associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for design associate in Nanaimo, BC is $47,828.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,277.00 and $55,435.00 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 Nanaimo, BC?

The most popular types of Design jobs in Nanaimo, BC are:

What are popular job titles related to Design Associate jobs in Nanaimo, BC?

For Design Associate jobs in Nanaimo, BC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Nanaimo, BC are hiring for Design Associate jobs?

Cities near Nanaimo, BC with the most Design Associate job openings:

Design Associate jobs near you

Associate

Smith + Andersen

Nanaimo, BC • Hybrid

CA$110K - CA$140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Role: Associate - Electrical
Location: Nanaimo, BC
Job Type: Hybrid – WFH + In Office
Salary Range: $110,000 - $140,000
Who We Are

Smith + Andersen is a trusted, Canadian engineering firm, recognized for its multi-disciplinary expertise. With more than seven hundred employees across eleven offices in five provinces, the firm delivers comprehensive solutions nationwide

At Smith + Andersen our employees contribute to some of the most sustainable building design projects in Canada. The work we do has meaningful impact on the community by contributing to landmark projects such as hospitals, transit stations, parks, federal and provincial government buildings and post-secondary institutions.
Our values drive and define everything we do, demonstrating a deep commitment to sustainability, mentorship and quality work that spans six decades in business. In addition, we are proud to have been certified as a Great Place to Work™ and selected as one of Canada’s Best Workplaces™ for the highly collaborative culture we’ve built and for empowering employees to do great work!
This Opportunity
The Nanaimo office of Smith + Andersen is currently seeking an Associate for our Electrical team. You are a natural leader who thinks outside the box. You’re glad to collaborate with your team as you take on challenges and create innovative design solutions. You are eager to establish solid relationships with clients, and use your building services design expertise to help make their next project a success. You thrive when working on a variety of projects and are looking for an opportunity to meet and exceed your career goals.
This posting is for a future anticipated role.

Why choose Smith + Andersen?

In addition to an exciting career filled with meaningful work, we offer:
  • Competitive salary
  • Flexible hours and half day Fridays (all year round)
  • Comprehensive Group Health Benefits Program, including a Health Spending Account
  • Group Retirement Savings Plan (Employer and Employee Contributions)
  • Employee Share Ownership Program (ESOP)
  • Purchase Time off Program
  • Transit Subsidy Program
  • Wide variety of community and social events
  • Great Place to Work-Certified™
  • Best Workplaces™ in Canada
  • Best Workplaces for Inclusion™
  • Best Workplaces for Professional Services ™
  • Best Workplaces for Mental Wellness ™

What You'll Do
  • Work with Principal-in-charge to lead a team designers and project managers for a single or multiple business sectors.
  • Actively seeks opportunities to increase client satisfaction, deepen client relationships and grow business sectors.
  • Works with the Business Development and Proposals group to respond to proposals. Actively writes proposal responses (RFP).
  • Develops and/or improves processes and procedures for Project Management to improve efficiency.
  • Leads and/or assists in human resources related activities including recruitment and selection, employee development, performance appraisals and employee relations.
  • Mentors designers and project managers in technical and non-technical aspects of their role.
  • Fully understands Codes and Standards relevant for the project and is able to communicate all requirements to the internal project team, external project team, owner, and Authorities Having Jurisdiction.
  • Fully understands (construction) project procurement methodologies and is able to recommend or apply such method for the project
  • Responsible for reviewing all deliverables for the project whether reports, calculations, drawings, or/and specifications. Reviews for completeness and accuracy at various stages of development and as defined by internal total quality management.
  • Promotes and enforces company standards relating to project administration, documentation and processes such as total quality management.
  • Prepares and continually monitors a schedule of tasks required to complete the project including hours to perform tasks and critical data required for performance.
  • Organizes and attends meetings including client meetings.
  • Prepares, or assists Principal-in-charge with, the development of all system engineering concepts (e.g. design brief) and concept report. Reviews and manages the design in terms of construction budgets.
  • Responds to both technical and financial queries related to the project.
  • Oversees non-technical aspects of all disciplines for the project.
  • Works with designers and project managers to prepare all calculations and selects all equipment. Some will be completed by candidate and some assigned to designers and CAD Technician where appropriate.
  • Performs, or arranges for, reviews of existing installation and interprets/manages the impact on the project.
  • Ensures proper coordination of document with the internal and external project team (architect, interior designer, and other disciplines).
  • Leads the Field Representative teams and delegates site activities to Project Managers when needed.
  • Coordinates with the contract administration team regarding drawing reviews, proper set up of contract administration process and site activities.
  • Works with designers and project managers to prepare all change notices or reviews change notices issued by contract administration team.
  • Responsible for ensuring tasks are completed both accurately and with the assigned hours/fee.
  • Supports the process of accounts receivable.

Who You Are
  • Possess 8 or more years of project engineering experience in the field of electrical building services.
  • Possess P.Eng or C.E.T. designation.
  • Demonstrate a strong leadership qualities and ability to work independently.
  • Demonstrate the ability to work in a complex environment, dealing with multiple projects and clients.
  • Possess sound communications skills as demonstrated through client and staff relations.
  • Demonstrate experience working with other consultants and contractors, and coordination of major projects.
  • Thoroughly versed in provincial building codes, ASHRAE, CSA and NFPA standards.
  • LEED certification / Experience implementing sustainable design (LEED projects) is an asset.
  • Demonstrated ability to deliver professional presentations and chair meetings with clients and at industry events.
  • Demonstrated ability to develop lasting relationships with clients that foster strong client ties.
  • Willingness to work over and above regular business hours to deliver projects and develop relationships with clients.

About Smith + Andersen
Founded in 1965, Smith + Andersen has organically grown from an established reputation as a trusted engineering consulting firm, reaching new levels of engineering and design excellence in the mechanical, electrical, communications, security and audiovisual fields, and providing enhanced services such as lighting, building automation systems, and intelligent integrated systems design. Thanks to our client-focused approach, we are able to apply efficient, sustainable, and reliable design and engineering solutions on the some of the most exciting projects across Canada.
For more information about Smith + Andersen, please visit our website at www.smithandandersen.com.
Accommodation
Appropriate accommodations will be provided to candidates upon request throughout the recruitment and hiring process. Successful applicants will be advised of Smith + Andersen’s accommodation policies at the time the employment offer is extended. Only qualified candidates will be contacted.
Diversity
Smith + Andersen is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates of any age, culture, subculture, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, nationality, race, ethnicity, family status, religion, mental or physical status or veteran status.
Recruitment Agencies
Smith + Andersen welcomes interest by individual applicants. For resumes or applications submitted by agencies or recruiters with which Smith + Andersen does not have an agreement in place, Smith + Andersen will not pay any referral fee. Unsolicited resumes or applications from agencies or recruiters will be deemed to have been referred without fee or other charges.
Artificial Intelligence
Smith + Andersen does not use artificial intelligence (AI) to screen, assess or select applicants.
Smith + Andersen is an equal opportunity employer.

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