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Design Associate Jobs in Waynesboro, VA (NOW HIRING)

Senior Roadway Engineer

Waynesboro, VA

$100K - $138K/yr

Rinker Design Associates (RDA) is seeking a talented Senior Roadway Engineer to join our growing Transportation team. In this role, you'll lead the design and delivery of roadway projects while ...

Rinker Design Associates (RDA) is seeking an experienced Senior Roadway Manager to join our Transportation team. In this leadership role, you'll oversee the planning, design, and delivery of roadway ...

Senior Roadway Engineer

Waynesboro, VA · On-site

$120K - $180K/yr

Waynesboro, VA Compensation: $120,000 - $180,000 / year Description Rinker Design Associates (RDA) is seeking a talented Senior Roadway Engineer to join our growing Transportation team. In this role ...

Senior Roadway Manager

Waynesboro, VA · On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

Waynesboro, VA Compensation: $150,000 - $200,000 / year Description Rinker Design Associates (RDA) is seeking an experienced Senior Roadway Manager to join our Transportation team. In this leadership ...

Mid/Senior Drainage Engineer

Waynesboro, VA

$100K - $138K/yr

Rinker Design Associates, LLC (RDA) is seeking a skilled Drainage Engineer with 4+ years of experience to join our dynamic team in Manassas, Fredericksburg, Glen Allen, Virginia Beach or Waynesboro.

Waynesboro, VA Compensation: $110,000 - $160,000 / year Description Rinker Design Associates, LLC (RDA) is seeking a skilled Drainage Engineer with 4+ years of experience to join our dynamic team in ...

Quality Design Lead, Drug Product Manufacturing (Associate Director) Purpose The Quality Design Lead Associate Director provides strategic quality leadership for the design and delivery of Fastnet, a ...

Quality Design Lead, Drug Substance Manufacturing (Associate Director) Purpose The Quality Design Lead Associate Director provides strategic quality leadership for the design and delivery of Fastnet ...

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Showing results 1-20

Design Associate information

See Waynesboro, VA salary details

$18.8K

$56.3K

$84.2K

How much do design associate jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for design associate in Waynesboro, VA is $56,337.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,700.00 and $65,400.00 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 does a design associate do?

A design associate supports the design team by creating visual concepts, drafting layouts, and preparing presentations using tools like Adobe Creative Suite or CAD software. They collaborate with clients and team members to develop design solutions and ensure projects meet specifications and deadlines.

What is a design assistant's salary?

A design assistant's salary typically ranges from $40,000 to $60,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced assistants or those with specialized skills can earn more. Salaries often include benefits such as health insurance and paid time off.

What is the highest paid design job?

The highest paid design jobs are often senior roles such as Creative Director or Design Director, which can earn six-figure salaries. These positions typically require extensive experience, leadership skills, and proficiency with design tools like Adobe Creative Suite or CAD software. Specialized fields like UX/UI design or industrial design can also offer high salaries at senior levels.

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 are Design Associates?

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.

Is AI replacing designers?

AI tools are increasingly used by design associates to automate repetitive tasks and generate ideas, but they do not replace the need for human creativity, critical thinking, and aesthetic judgment. Designers and design associates still play a vital role in interpreting client needs, making strategic decisions, and ensuring quality. AI serves as a complement to design skills rather than a complete replacement in the design process.
What are the most commonly searched types of Design jobs in Waynesboro, VA? The most popular types of Design jobs in Waynesboro, VA are:
What cities near Waynesboro, VA are hiring for Design Associate jobs? Cities near Waynesboro, VA with the most Design Associate job openings:
Senior Roadway Engineer

Senior Roadway Engineer

Rinker Design Associates

Waynesboro, VA • On-site

$120K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

Description
Rinker Design Associates (RDA) is seeking a talented Senior Roadway Engineer to join our growing Transportation team. In this role, you'll lead the design and delivery of roadway projects while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to create safe, efficient, and sustainable transportation solutions. You'll have the opportunity to mentor junior staff, contribute to project success, and work on impactful infrastructure projects throughout Virginia and beyond.

If you're looking for a collaborative environment where you can expand your technical expertise and take on increasing project responsibilities, we'd love to hear from you.
$10,000 Sign-On Bonus

What You'll Do:
  • Lead the development of roadway design plans for transportation projects
  • Prepare and review plans, specifications, quantities, and cost estimates.
  • Coordinate with project managers, clients, subconsultants, and regulatory agencies throughout project development.
  • Ensure designs comply with VDOT, AASHTO, MUTCD, and local agency standards.
  • Utilize MicroStation and OpenRoads Designer to develop and review design documents.
  • Support project schedules, budgets, and quality control efforts.
  • Collaborate with traffic, drainage, structures, and environmental teams to deliver integrated solutions.
  • Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior engineers and designers.
  • Assist with proposal preparation and project pursuits.

What You'll Need:
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or a related field.
  • 7–12 years of roadway design experience, preferably on VDOT and municipal transportation projects.
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license required or ability to obtain Virginia licensure through reciprocity.
  • Proficiency with MicroStation and OpenRoads Designer.
  • Strong understanding of VDOT Road Design Manual, AASHTO standards, MUTCD, and transportation design principles.
  • Experience preparing roadway plans, quantities, and construction documents.
  • Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple assignments and work effectively in a collaborative team environment.

Why Join RDA?
We offer a comprehensive benefits package which includes:   
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401K Retirement Plan; Roth Contributions
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
  • Life, AD&D, short-term and long-term disability
  • Generous PTO and 8 federal holidays + 1 floating holiday
  • Parental leave 
  • Supportive team culture
RDA is an Equal Opportunity Employer and maintains a drug-free workplace.
Applicants that require an employment visa sponsorship now or in the future will not be considered.