ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Design Associate Jobs in Oakland, CA (NOW HIRING)

Nathan E Demo

Design Associate

San Mateo, CA · On-site

This position will require that you act as both a client partner and a Design team lead and mentor. Responsibilities: * Manage multiple projects through all stages of development: from incubation to ...

BBG Ventures, LLC

Design Associate

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$50 - $70/hr

Location San Francisco Responsibilities * Assist in the design of marketing materials from concept to completion. * Create PNG assets for mobile app. * Work on UI experience--wireframing for new and ...

New

Nathan E Demo

Design Associate

San Mateo, CA · On-site

This position will require that you act as both a client partner and a Design team lead and mentor. Responsibilities: * Manage multiple projects through all stages of development: from incubation to ...

Syntronic R&D USA

Be Seen First

RF Design Associate

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$85K - $90K/yr

Are you ready to be part of a leading global engineering design house specializing in the design and development of embedded software/hardware, electronics, and electro-mechanics? What we're looking ...

Coframe

Generative Design Associate

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$36 - $45/hr

As a Generative Design Associate to help shape the web experiences our agents create for some of the world's largest companies. This is a hands-on role for an early-career designer with exceptional ...

COUPAR

COUPAR: Interior Design Assistant

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

... Associate and Lead Designers with various design and administrative tasks related to all phases of high end interior design from initial planning through to project completion Review project plans ...

COUPAR

COUPAR: Interior Design Assistant

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

... Associate and Lead Designers with various design and administrative tasks related to all phases of high end interior design from initial planning through to project completion • Review project ...

COUPAR

COUPAR: Design Assistant

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Benefits Being an associate at Coupar will give you access to work with the top 1% of the residential design firms in the Bay Area/Silicon Valley. You will be exposed the proven design process that ...

COUPAR

COUPAR: Design Assistant

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Benefits Being an associate at Coupar will give you access to work with the top 1% of the residential design firms in the Bay Area/Silicon Valley. You will be exposed the proven design process that ...

COUPAR

COUPAR: Design Assistant

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Benefits Being an associate at Coupar will give you access to work with the top 1% of the residential design firms in the Bay Area/Silicon Valley. You will be exposed the proven design process that ...

Abbott

Associate Director, Product Design

Alameda, CA · On-site

$175K - $215K/yr

We are seeking an Associate Director, Product Design in Alameda, CA to lead the design of the next evolution of the product. This role is ideal for a strategic design leader who thrives in fast-paced ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDesign Associate JobsDesign Associate Jobs in Oakland, CA

Design Associate information

See Oakland, CA salary details

$22.4K

$67.3K

$100.5K

How much do design associate jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for design associate in Oakland, CA is $67,255.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,700.00 and $78,100.00 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 Oakland, CA?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Design Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Design Associate job openings in Oakland, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,255 per year, or $32.3 per hour.

Design Associate

Nathan E Demo

San Mateo, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

This position will require that you act as both a client partner and a Design team lead and mentor.
Responsibilities: 
  • Manage multiple projects through all stages of development: from incubation to final production, and is responsible for overall quality, innovation and creative vision
  • Mentor, guide, and provide support for the Design team
  • Integrate clients’ business requirements into strategies, marketing, and aesthetic interests
  • Lead development of new business, and develop and build discipline capabilities

Qualifications: 
  • 10+ years with hands-on product design
  • 3+ years in managing creative teams and individuals in challenging projects
  • Skilled in client negotiation and setting expectations against real-world limitations
  • Accomplished in the manufacturing process of diverse products Immersed in 3D processes and technology: Alias, Solidworks, Photoshop
  • Passionate about maintaining very high standards for design
  • Exceptionally creative, with a portfolio of beautiful product design work
  • Inspiring, open minded, hard-working, collaborative, and passionate
Employment Type: Full-Time

Apply