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Design Professional Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Design Professional III

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$81K - $104K/yr

Design Professional III - Lead with Vision, Design with Purpose Location: Los Angeles Full-Time Exempt Salary: Competitive & Based on Experience HEALTHCARE AND EDUCATION HIGHLY PREFERRED Who We're ...

Description Design Professional III - Lead with Vision, Design with Purpose Location: Los Angeles Full-Time Exempt Salary: Competitive & Based on Experience HEALTHCARE AND EDUCATION HIGHLY PREFERRED ...

Design Professional III

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$81K - $104K/yr

Design Professional III - Lead with Vision, Design with Purpose Location: Los Angeles Full-Time Exempt Salary: Competitive & Based on Experience HEALTHCARE AND EDUCATION HIGHLY PREFERRED Who We're ...

Together, we cultivate a culture of design excellence at the confluence of art and science ... HOK invests in its people and communities, supporting both personal and professional growth through ...

... design expertise. * May mentor and direct the work of less experienced staff and deliver staff performance evaluations. * May participate in interviews and recruiting of professional staff. * Takes ...

Design Manager

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$170K - $185K/yr

Function as the lead design professional in the Design Department providing quality review, implementation of policy and procedures and interface and coordinate with the Division of State Architects ...

Senior Design Manager

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$190K - $210K/yr

Function as the lead design professional in the Design Department providing quality review, implementation of policy and procedures and interface and coordinate with the Division of State Architects ...

Design Manager

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$170K - $185K/yr

Function as the lead design professional in the Design Department providing quality review, implementation of policy and procedures and interface and coordinate with the Division of State Architects ...

Mech-Design Engr

Milpitas, CA ยท On-site

$50 - $65/hr

This role is ideal for a design professional with experience developing precision mechanical components and assemblies, particularly for complex electromechanical products. The successful candidate ...

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Design Professional information

See California salary details

$79.4K

$137.5K

$180.1K

How much do design professional jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for design professional in California is $137,543.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $134,200.00 and $134,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Design Professionals?

Design Professionals are individuals trained and skilled in creating visual concepts, plans, and solutions across various disciplines such as architecture, graphic design, interior design, and industrial design. They work to combine aesthetics, functionality, and user needs to develop effective designs for products, spaces, or communications. Design Professionals often collaborate with clients and other stakeholders to bring creative ideas to life, ensuring that projects meet both practical requirements and artistic standards.

What is the difference between Design Professional vs Interior Designer?

AspectDesign ProfessionalInterior Designer
CredentialsVaries; may include certifications, licenses, or degrees in design-related fieldsTypically requires a degree in interior design and certification (e.g., NCIDQ)
Work EnvironmentArchitectural firms, design consultancies, construction projectsResidential, commercial interior spaces, showrooms
Industry UsageBroader; includes various design disciplines like landscape, industrial, interiorSpecialized in interior spaces and decor

Design Professionals encompass a wide range of design roles, including interior design, architecture, and landscape design. Interior Designers focus specifically on creating functional and aesthetic interior spaces. While both may work in similar environments and require related credentials, Design Professionals have a broader scope, whereas Interior Designers specialize in interior spaces.

What is the highest paid Designer job?

The highest paid design professionals are often senior roles such as Creative Directors or Design Directors, especially in large corporations or specialized industries like technology, advertising, or fashion. These roles typically require extensive experience, leadership skills, and proficiency with advanced design tools, and they can earn six-figure salaries or more annually.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Design Professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Design Professional, you need a solid background in design principles, creativity, and a relevant degree or certification in fields like graphic, interior, or industrial design. Proficiency in industry-standard design software such as Adobe Creative Suite, AutoCAD, or SketchUp is typically required. Strong communication, collaboration, and problem-solving abilities set outstanding design professionals apart. These competencies ensure the creation of innovative, functional, and visually compelling solutions that meet client needs and project objectives.

What are some common challenges Design Professionals face when working on multidisciplinary teams?

Design Professionals often collaborate with engineers, marketers, and project managers, which can present challenges such as aligning diverse perspectives, balancing creative vision with technical constraints, and managing feedback from multiple stakeholders. Effective communication and adaptability are essential for ensuring that design solutions meet both aesthetic goals and functional requirements. Building strong relationships within the team and proactively seeking feedback helps navigate these challenges and contributes to successful project outcomes.

What are 20 careers in design?

Design professionals can pursue careers such as graphic designer, interior designer, industrial designer, fashion designer, web designer, UX/UI designer, landscape architect, product designer, visual merchandiser, set designer, textile designer, multimedia artist, branding specialist, exhibition designer, furniture designer, packaging designer, game designer, motion graphics artist, CAD technician, and design educator. These roles often require proficiency with design software, creativity, and an understanding of user needs or aesthetics. Many careers also benefit from relevant certifications or degrees in design or related fields.

Is AI replacing designers?

AI is increasingly used as a tool to assist design professionals by automating repetitive tasks and generating ideas, but it does not replace the need for human creativity, critical thinking, and aesthetic judgment. Designers still play a crucial role in interpreting client needs, making strategic decisions, and applying artistic skills that AI cannot replicate. The integration of AI enhances productivity but complements rather than replaces the expertise of design professionals.

What is the highest paying design field?

In the design profession, user experience (UX) design and industrial design tend to be among the highest paying fields, especially for those with advanced skills and certifications. Senior roles in these areas often command higher salaries due to their specialized expertise and impact on product development and user satisfaction.
What are the most commonly searched types of Design jobs in California? The most popular types of Design jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Design Professional jobs? Cities in California with the most Design Professional job openings:
Infographic showing various Design Professional job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $137,543 per year, or $66.1 per hour.

Design Professional III

NAC Inc

Los Angeles, CA โ€ข On-site

$81K - $104K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Description:Design Professional III – Lead with Vision, Design with Purpose

Location: Los Angeles
Full-Time
Exempt

Salary: Competitive & Based on Experience

HEALTHCARE AND EDUCATION HIGHLY PREFERRED

Who We’re Looking For

Are you ready to take your design career to the next level? Do you see design as a powerful tool for storytelling, community impact, and innovation?

We’re seeking a Design Professional III who blends technical proficiency with a designer’s soul—someone who’s eager to contribute bold ideas, drive thoughtful solutions, and help turn visionary concepts into meaningful, built environments. This is your opportunity to join a collaborative team of creatives where your work truly makes a difference.

What You’ll Do – Your Leadership in Action
  • Design with Purpose: Develop compelling architectural concepts that merge function, aesthetics, and sustainability.
  • Lead & Innovate: Spearhead technical design solutions for major projects, applying cutting-edge methods and materials.
  • Bring Designs to Life: Independently produce high-quality plans, specifications, and oversee material selection.
  • Collaborate & Inspire: Work alongside clients, consultants, and project teams to ensure seamless project execution.
  • Guide the Next Generation: Mentor junior designers and interns, fostering innovation and design excellence.
  • See It Through: Engage in construction administration—site visits, RFIs, submittals, and punch lists—bringing designs from concept to reality.


Requirements:Competencies
  • Design Tools: Proficiency in Revit required; Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) proficiency required; SketchUp and Rhino preferred; Lumion, Enscape, and V-Ray are a plus.
  • Technical Know-How: Strong working knowledge of zoning and building codes, specifications, building/engineering systems, and agency requirements (NFPA, ADAAG, FGI, OBC, IBC etc).
  • Creative Confidence: Ability to generate and articulate impactful design ideas.
  • Strong Communicator: Outstanding verbal and written communication skills.
  • Detail-Driven: Organized and efficient with a focus on quality, timelines, and collaboration.
  • Client Focused: Passion for providing exceptional client service.
  • Team Player: Collaborative and professional work ethic.
Essential Functions

Independently produce finished plans, specifications, and approval of materials and construction on moderate to large-scale projects.

Participate in the conceptual design and provide full support through the entire project.

Provide professional consultation and coordination of the planning and development of construction and design document production, ensuring coordinated and high-quality documents.

Liaise with Project Management, other architects, and consultants.

Develop and represent lead technical viewpoints on projects.

Perform construction administration duties, such as site visits, RFI responses, submittals, and punch list reviews.

Create and review project reports, estimates, calculations, specifications, and compile/analyze relevant data.

Monitor billing efficiency rates and work at maximizing team’s quality and efficiency in assigned tasks.

Proactively coordinate meetings with clients, project teams, consultants, and contractors to ensure trust and confidence.

Provide technical guidance to less experienced project associates and interns.

Involve explorations of subject area, definition of scope, selection of items for investigation, and development of complex or novel concepts and methods.

Contribute innovative design ideas that consistently capture the intended design vision.

Contribute to bold design solutions that balance scale, aesthetics, and context to maximize the impact on the individual and community.

Your Background – Build on a Solid Foundation
  • Education: Bachelor of Science in Architecture or Bachelor of Architecture degree from an accredited university preferred; Master of Architecture preferred.
  • Experience: A minimum of eight years of architecture-related experience. Healthcare and Education experience preferred.
  • Travel: Occasional project-related travel required.
Why Join NAC?
  • Design-Driven Culture: We believe in the power of architecture to transform lives.
  • Meaningful Projects: From learning environments to civic spaces, our work shapes communities.
  • Collaborative Energy: Be part of a diverse, supportive team of creatives.
  • Inspiring Studios: Enjoy open, modern offices with creative resources and shared spaces.
  • Career Growth: We’re committed to mentorship, licensure support, and leadership development.
Ready to Shape What’s Next?

At NAC, we create environments that nurture people and empower communities. If you're passionate about purpose-driven design and eager to build your future with an innovative firm—we'd love to meet you.

  • Apply now and bring your creative spark to life.