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Design Development Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

HDR

Structural Design Engineer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

Conduct design development and contract document work sessions both in the office and at project sites in conjunction with the Project Manager and other disciplines * Organize, draft and coordinate ...

HDR

Structural Design Engineer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

Conduct design development and contract document work sessions both in the office and at project sites in conjunction with the Project Manager and other disciplines * Organize, draft and coordinate ...

Pacific Fusion

Mechanical Design

Fremont, CA

$83K - $112K/yr

You will lead the design, development, and validation of mechanical components and systems integral to our advanced pulsed magnetic inertial fusion energy systems. The primary focus of this role will ...

Wasco Switches & Sensors

Design Engineer

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

$87K - $102K/yr

Essential Functions: • Engineering Design & Development Performs system evaluation, mechanical design, equipment modification, and process development to support product and operational ...

RH

Leader, Architecture & Design

Corte Madera, CA · On-site +1

$150K - $180K/yr

About the Development & Design Team At RH, the retail design game has changed and Development & Design is the group that brings the RH vision to life. From restaurants, to European rooftop gardens to ...

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All JobsDesign Development JobsDesign Development Jobs in California

Design Development information

See California salary details

$9

$21

$31

How much do design development jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for design development in California is $21.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $23.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Design Development vs Design Engineer?

AspectDesign DevelopmentDesign Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's degree in design, architecture, or related fieldBachelor's or master's in engineering, design, or related discipline
Work EnvironmentCollaborative teams, design studios, project sitesEngineering offices, manufacturing plants, project sites
Industry UsageArchitecture, product design, industrial designMechanical, civil, electrical engineering projects

Design Development focuses on refining and evolving design concepts, often involving creative and aesthetic decisions. Design Engineers apply engineering principles to develop functional, safe, and manufacturable products or systems. While both roles require technical knowledge, Design Development emphasizes creative design progression, whereas Design Engineers focus on technical feasibility and engineering solutions.

What is design development?

Design development is a phase in the architectural and design process where initial concepts are refined into detailed plans and specifications. During this stage, designers work out the specifics of materials, dimensions, systems, and aesthetics, often collaborating with engineers and consultants. The goal is to translate ideas from the schematic design phase into precise documentation that can be used for construction. This stage helps ensure that the project is feasible, meets client needs, and complies with regulations.

What are some common challenges faced in a Design Development role and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Design Development often encounter challenges such as balancing creative vision with practical constraints like budget, timeline, and client requirements. Navigating feedback from multiple stakeholders and ensuring that design intent is maintained throughout the development process can also be demanding. These challenges can be addressed by fostering strong communication within cross-functional teams, maintaining detailed documentation, and using iterative design reviews to ensure alignment. By staying adaptable and solution-oriented, design development specialists can help bridge the gap between concept and execution.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Design Development, and why are they important?

To thrive in Design Development, you need a solid background in design principles, project management, and a relevant degree such as architecture, industrial design, or engineering. Familiarity with CAD software, 3D modeling tools, and design documentation systems is typically expected. Strong collaboration, problem-solving, and communication skills help you effectively translate concepts into practical solutions and work within multidisciplinary teams. These skills are crucial for delivering innovative, functional designs that meet client needs and project requirements.
What are the most commonly searched types of Design Development jobs in California? The most popular types of Design Development jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Design Development jobs in California? For Design Development jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Design Development jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Design Development jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Design Development jobs? Cities in California with the most Design Development job openings:
Design Development jobs near you

Architecture Design Coordinator

LPA Design Studios

San Jose, CA • On-site

$84K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Join the 2025 AIA Firm Award Winner shaping a more sustainable future.
LPA is a collective of designers, engineers, and researchers committed to tackling the biggest issues of our time. Our "No Excuses" integrated design approach was recognized by the AIA as "a trailblazer in sustainable, high-performance architecture". At LPA you'll be part of the team that is changing the way the industry thinks about design and carbon emissions, built around the belief that we only achieve our goals when everybody has a seat at the table and all input is valued.
We're currently seeking an Architecture Design Coordinator to join our dynamic San Jose studio. You'll be part of a culture that values deep collaboration, technical excellence, and continual growth. Examples of projects completed by our San Jose studio include Agnews Campus, Tide Academy and Santa Clara Square. Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams across our studios in California and Texas-and help bring high-performance, community-first design to life.
What You'll Do:
As an Architecture Design Coordinator, you'll be hands-on from concept to completion. You'll support and collaborate with project teams to:
  • Assist Project Architects, Project Designers, and Project Managers in the execution of specific assignments.
  • Prepare and manage documentation for schematic design, design development, and construction documents.
  • Create, develop, and implement design and detailing solutions.
  • Assist Project Leaders with client coordination and project coordination.
  • Support contract administration by reviewing submittals and responding to RFIs.
  • Research materials, systems, and construction methods to support design intent.
  • Provide mentorship to junior designers while receiving guidance from firm leadership.

What We Offer:
At LPA, your growth and contributions matter. We foster a collaborative culture where creative ideas are valued, and voices are heard.
  • Mentorship from Managing Directors, Design Directors, and senior team members across disciplines.
  • Career development support, including licensure incentives, professional development grants, and in-house training.
  • Ongoing education through LPA+U courses and Tech Talks focused on innovative, sustainable practices.
  • 8 paid hours of volunteer time each year.
  • Opportunities to propose and lead projects that impact your local community, including more than $1 million since 2015 in Habitat for Humanity builds, scholarships, and other pro bono community projects.
  • Access to our Professional Development Grants program, created to encourage professional development and further LPA's collective knowledge as a firm. Over the life of the grant program, we have invested $1,196,890 and impacted 848 LPA employees.

What We're Looking For:
Required:
  • Bachelors or Masters degree in Architecture.
  • 5+ years of experience across all phases of design and documentation.
  • Proficiency in Revit
  • Knowledge of building codes, materials, and construction methods.
  • Demonstrated creativity, initiative, and problem-solving in design and execution.

Preferred:
  • Actively pursuing licensure or already licensed.
  • LEED accreditation.
  • Familiarity with Rhino and Adobe Creative Suite.

LPA is an integrated design firm with offices in California and Texas, focused on creating forward-thinking, sustainable spaces that make a positive impact. We believe great design begins with great people, which is why we foster a supportive, collaborative environment where creativity, curiosity, and professional growth are encouraged. Our culture values diversity, promotes wellness, and supports a healthy work-life balance. At LPA, we offer competitive salaries and a robust benefits package-including health and dental insurance, retirement and financial planning, wellness initiatives, and flexible work/life programs.
This position is eligible for an annual bonus. If you are hired at LPA, your base salary is based on factors such as geographic location, skills, education, experience and/or project complexity. We believe in the importance of pay equity and consider the internal equity of our current team members as part of any final offer.
LPA uses E-Verify to confirm the employment eligibility of new hires.
NOTICE TO RECRUITMENT AGENCIES AND RECRUITERS:
Please note that LPA does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or employment agencies. In the absence of a signed contract, LPA will not agree to pay any recruiter fee. In the situation an agency or recruiter submits a candidate or resume without a previously signed agreement and/or without LPA's request, LPA explicitly reserves the right to hire those candidate(s) without any financial obligation to the recruiter or agency. Any unsolicited resumes, including those submitted to hiring managers, are deemed to be the property of LPA.

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