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Design Associate Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Senior Roadway Designer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$99K - $106K/yr

Think critically and solve problems Qualifications Required * 10+ years of experience in roadway design * Associate's degree in civil engineering or related degree, exceptional experience may be ...

Senior Roadway Designer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$99K - $106K/yr

Think critically and solve problems Qualifications Required * 10+ years of experience in roadway design * Associate's degree in civil engineering or related degree, exceptional experience may be ...

Associate's degree in engineering or related technical field preferred Responsibilities Troubleshoot and develop design solutions to meet customers' needs. Create working models and shop drawings ...

Designer - Bridge Design

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$59K - $89K/yr

About Us At Larson Design Group (LDG), we're more than an award-winning Architecture, Engineering ... Associates or Bachelor's degree in a Technical discipline preferred. * Experience: No previous ...

ESP Associates, Inc. is seeking a full-time Survey CAD Technician in our Raleigh office. Qualifications: * Associate degree or higher in surveying technology/geomatics, civil engineering, or related ...

Designer - Bridge Design

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$59K - $89K/yr

About Us At Larson Design Group (LDG), we're more than an award-winning Architecture, Engineering ... Associates or Bachelor's degree in a Technical discipline preferred. * Experience: No previous ...

Project Architect

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$80K - $107K/yr

Cline is an integrated, nationwide design firm bringing architecture, interior design, planning, landscape architecture, land planning, and branding under one roof. We partner with clients to shape ...

Showing results 21-40

Design Associate information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$19K

$56.9K

$85.1K

How much do design associate jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for design associate in Raleigh, NC is $56,926.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,100.00 and $66,100.00 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 Raleigh, NC?

The most popular types of Design jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Design Associate jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Design Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Design Associate job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,926 per year, or $27.4 per hour.

Senior Roadway Designer

Raleigh, NC • On-site

$99K - $106K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Assist in preparation and completion of roadway engineering designs, including plans, traffic management, pavement marking, signing, quantities, and cost estimates

  • Assist in the production of engineering drawings and specifications, and develop project design details, plans, and drawings

  • Conduct field observations and data collection activities related to roadway projects


Job description

About Stratus


Stratus® is an integrated, multi-disciplinary engineering, architecture, interior design, and consulting firm. Consistently ranking among the Top 500 Design Firms in Engineering News-Record, the firm offers a deep bench of industry experts through a highly collaborative approach, delivering innovative solutions across the full project lifecycle. Operating coast to coast, Stratus® serves clients nationwide while maintaining a strategic commitment to supporting high-growth economies and building vibrant communities that foster the professional growth of its team. Serving public- and private-sector clients, the firm is dedicated to delivering the highest-quality service wherever projects take shape. Across the Civic, Commercial, Industrial, Transportation, Education, Water Resources, and Government sectors, we bring precision, insight, and purpose to every project, from targeted renovations to large-scale infrastructure. Stratus® designs spaces, systems, and solutions that perform, endure, and make an impact, delivering on our promise of Better Plans. Better Places.


The Role 


Stratus recently partnered with Stewart Engineering and is seeking a Senior Roadway Designer to join the team. This person will produce consistently high-quality design on a wide variety of roadway projects, both large- and small-scale, including the design of major and minor arterials, limited-access facilities, bridge replacement approaches, at-grade intersections, interchanges, and municipal projects.


Responsibilities


  • Assist in preparation and completion of discipline engineering designs that are responsive to project needs including the production of roadway plans, traffic management plans, pavement marking plans, signing plans, quantities, cost estimates, construction administration and final specifications
  • Assist in the production of engineering drawings and specifications
  • Conduct field observations and data collection activities
  • Assist in preparation of design details, plans, and drawings within assigned task areas
  • Assist in Development of project design criteria, design calculations, construction details, quantities and cost estimates 
  • Performs such other duties as the supervisor may from time to time deem necessary
  • Complete work accurately andin accordance withgood engineering codes and practice
  • Effectively communicate and coordinate with other team members
  • Complete work on time and within budget
  • Be energetic, self-directed and success focused
  • Think critically and solve problems


Qualifications


Required

  • 10+ years of experience in roadway design
  • Associate's degree in civil engineering or related degree, exceptional experience may be considered in lieu of a degree
  • Knowledge of transportation engineering concepts, principles, theories, and methods required to:
    • Plan, design, and engineer facilities such as highways, streets, bridges, and multi-modal facilities
  • Advanced knowledge of MicroStation SS2 and/or Open Roads Designer
  • Intermediate skills in MS Word and Excel software programs
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills

Preferred

  • Experience working with NCDOT projects preferred


Why you’ll love Stratus


  • A team-oriented environment that values transparency, creativity, and shared success
  • Meaningful career paths, leadership opportunities, and space to specialize
  • Learning & Development – Education and Professional Licensing
  • We believe flexible, hybrid work supports the balance and well-being our team deserves
  • Excellent Health Care Programs – Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Company-paid Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, and Long-Term Disability
  • Voluntary Life Insurance options for employees, spouses, and dependents
  • 401k Retirement Plan with employer match
  • Paid Holidays & Competitive PTO plans

Interested in learning more about Stratus, please visit https://www.stratusteam.com/.

Equal Opportunity Statement 

Stratus is an Equal Opportunity Employer that does not discriminate on the basis of actual or perceived race, color, creed, religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, pregnancy-related conditions, and lactation), gender identity or expression (including transgender status), sexual orientation, marital status, military service and veteran status, physical or mental disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws and ordinances. Stratus Team’s management Team is dedicated to this policy with respect to recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities, access to facilities and programs, and general treatment during employment.