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Design Returnship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Design Returnship information

See salary details

$42K

$114.5K

$201.5K

How much do design returnship jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for design returnship in the United States is $114,491.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,500.00 and $144,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What kinds of projects and responsibilities can participants expect during a Design Returnship program?

During a Design Returnship, participants typically work on real-world design projects alongside experienced team members. Responsibilities often include collaborating on user interface or user experience design, contributing to brainstorming sessions, assisting with prototyping, and participating in client or stakeholder meetings. Returnees are encouraged to refresh their technical and creative skills while receiving mentorship and feedback in a supportive environment. These programs are structured to help professionals smoothly reintegrate into the design workforce and build confidence in their abilities.

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

To thrive in a Design Returnship, you generally need a background in graphic, UX/UI, or industrial design, with foundational proficiency in design principles and a relevant degree or portfolio. Familiarity with industry-standard tools like Adobe Creative Suite, Figma, or Sketch is typically expected, and completing refresher courses or certifications can be advantageous. Strong communication, adaptability, and a collaborative mindset help candidates stand out as they reintegrate into dynamic design teams. These skills and qualities ensure participants can quickly contribute fresh perspectives, meet project goals, and effectively collaborate in fast-evolving creative environments.

What is the difference between Design Returnship vs Design Internship?

AspectDesign ReturnshipDesign Internship
CredentialsTypically requires some professional experience or prior work in designUsually suitable for students or recent graduates with limited experience
Work EnvironmentProfessional, often part-time or project-based, with mentorshipEducational, often in a classroom or supervised setting
Employer UsageCompanies offering return-to-work programs for designers re-entering the workforceEducational institutions or companies providing training for students

In summary, a Design Returnship is aimed at experienced designers re-entering the workforce, offering mentorship and professional projects, while a Design Internship is typically for students or newcomers gaining initial experience. Both serve different stages of a designer's career but share a focus on skill development and industry exposure.

What is a Design Returnship?

A Design Returnship is a temporary, structured program designed for professionals who have taken a career break and want to re-enter the design field. These programs typically last a few months and offer participants the opportunity to update their skills, gain recent work experience, and rebuild their professional networks. Companies often provide mentorship, training, and support to help returnees transition smoothly back into the workforce. Design Returnships can lead to full-time employment upon successful completion, but this is not always guaranteed.
Infographic showing various Design Returnship job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $114,491 per year, or $55 per hour.
Senior Physical Design Applications Engineer Returnship

Senior Physical Design Applications Engineer Returnship

Cadence Design Systems Inc.

Austin, TX โ€ข On-site

$59K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

At Cadence, we hire and develop leaders and innovators who want to make an impact on the world of technology.

Are you looking to re-enter the workforce as a Physical Design Application Engineer after taking a career break for caregiving?

Who is eligible to apply:
Please ONLY consider applying if you are a Physical Designer and (IMPORTANT) who has been out of the workforce for caregiving for a period of at least two years and have a minimum of three years of Physical Design work experience. This role is not open to new college grads or interns. Please check our career site for those roles.
Cadence is offering an opportunity to qualified candidates who meet our eligibility criteria to participate in a 16-week paid returnship program. You will be entered in a tailored program designed to jump start your skills through training, hands on projects and customer interaction. You will have an opportunity to update your resume, build connections and participate in fun events as you re-enter the workforce.
In this program, you will work with best in class EDA tools, collaborate with R&D and the Sales team in a dynamic, innovative environment. Learn processes that are in the forefront of technology, how a company like Cadence works as well as experience how teams solve problems.


We are seeking individuals with experience in Digital Synthesis, Place and Route and Signoff Analysis.
Where is this returnship located: San Jose, CA
What opportunity is offered: Candidates will find opportunities to be in the Application Engineering field spanning across Digital Synthesis, Place and Route and Signoff Analysis.

How long is this returnship: 16 weeks
Company Description:
At Cadence, our core values are more than just words, they are the way we work, laugh, debate, care, question, and innovate together. We are One Cadence-One Team.
Cadence plays a critical role in creating the technologies that modern life depends on. We are a global electronic design automation (EDA) company, providing software, hardware, and intellectual property to design advanced semiconductor chips that enable our customers create revolutionary products and experiences. Our team's shared passion for solving the world's toughest technical challenges and drive to do meaningful work makes us proud to be part of Cadence. Our unique culture has been recognized on FORTUNE Magazine's 100 Best Companies to Work For list and garnered accolades from the Great Place To Work Institute around the globe.

#LI-MA1

The annual salary range for California is $59,500 to $110,500. You may also be eligible to receive incentive compensation: bonus, equity, and benefits. Sales positions generally offer a competitive On Target Earnings (OTE) incentive compensation structure. Please note that the salary range is a guideline and compensation may vary based on factors such as qualifications, skill level, competencies and work location. Our benefits programs include: paid vacation and paid holidays, 401(k) plan with employer match, employee stock purchase plan, a variety of medical, dental and vision plan options, and more.

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