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Product Design Assistant Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Hiive

Director of Product Design

Vancouver, WA · On-site +1

$162K - $199K/yr

We are seeking a Director of Product Design to own the user experience and interface design of the ... assist in screening applications, evaluating candidate qualifications, and supporting interview ...

SigSauer

Tooling Design Engineer II

Tualatin, OR · On-site

Tooling Design Engineer II SIG SAUER, Inc . is a leading provider and manufacturer of firearms ... production tooling. * Create and integrate tooling with process control methodology to assist ...

SIG Sauer

Tooling Design Engineer II

Tualatin, OR · On-site

Tooling Design Engineer II SIG SAUER, Inc . is a leading provider and manufacturer of firearms ... production tooling. * Create and integrate tooling with process control methodology to assist ...

Illinois Tool Works Inc

Drafter-Designer

Tualatin, OR

$27 - $31/hr

... design-related issues on the production floor. * Deliver organized, well-documented drawing projects independently and within time constraints. * Train team members on product designs and assist in ...

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All JobsProduct Design JobsProduct Design Assistant JobsProduct Design Assistant Jobs in Portland, OR

Product Design Assistant information

See Portland, OR salary details

$34.5K

$203.5K

$259.3K

How much do product design assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for product design assistant in Portland, OR is $203,471.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,200.00 and $258,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a product design assistant do?

A Product Design Assistant supports the product design team in developing new products or enhancing existing ones. Their tasks often include creating sketches or prototypes, conducting research on materials and trends, preparing presentation materials, and assisting with administrative duties. They collaborate closely with designers, engineers, and marketing teams to ensure ideas are accurately translated from concept to production. This entry-level role is ideal for those looking to gain hands-on experience in the design process while learning from experienced professionals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a product design assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Product Design Assistant, you need a foundational understanding of design principles, proficiency in design software (such as Adobe Creative Suite or Sketch), and often a relevant degree or coursework in design. Familiarity with prototyping tools, CAD software, and digital asset management systems is typically expected. Strong attention to detail, creativity, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with design teams and contribute original ideas. These skills are essential for supporting the design process, ensuring design quality, and facilitating smooth project workflows.

What are some common challenges faced by product design assistants when collaborating with cross-functional teams?

Product Design Assistants often work closely with graphic designers, engineers, marketers, and product managers. A common challenge is balancing input from multiple stakeholders while ensuring the design vision remains consistent and practical. Managing feedback, prioritizing tasks, and adapting to shifting project requirements are key aspects of the role. Strong communication and organization skills help Product Design Assistants navigate these challenges and contribute effectively to the team's success.

What is the difference between Product Design Assistant vs Product Designer?

AspectProduct Design AssistantProduct Designer
CredentialsTypically a degree in design, art, or related field; entry-level experienceAdvanced degree or extensive experience in product design
Work EnvironmentSupports design teams, assists with research, sketches, and prototypesLeads design projects, creates concepts, and finalizes product designs
Industry UsageCommon in tech, manufacturing, and consumer goods companiesSenior roles in similar industries, often overseeing design teams

The Product Design Assistant role is an entry-level position supporting product design teams with research, sketches, and prototypes. In contrast, the Product Designer takes the lead on creating and finalizing product concepts. While both roles require design knowledge, the assistant focuses on support tasks, whereas the designer handles core design responsibilities.

What is the role of a product design assistant?

A product design assistant supports the design team by creating sketches, prototypes, and visual materials, often using tools like Adobe Creative Suite or CAD software. They help gather user feedback, conduct research, and ensure designs meet project requirements, contributing to the development of functional and aesthetic products.

What are the most commonly searched types of Product Design jobs in Portland, OR?

The most popular types of Product Design jobs in Portland, OR are:

What are popular job titles related to Product Design Assistant jobs in Portland, OR?

For Product Design Assistant jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Product Design Assistant jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Product Design Assistant jobs in Portland, OR are:

What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Product Design Assistant jobs?

Cities near Portland, OR with the most Product Design Assistant job openings:

Product Design Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Product Design Assistant job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $203,471 per year, or $97.8 per hour.

Design Assistant - Gear

Portland, OR

Perry Ellis International
Apparel and Accessories Stores • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Perry Ellis Internationalexternal

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

SUMMARY: 
Responsible for administration and follow up of the product design process. Assists in the conceptual development of the accessories product line. Assist the Sr. Product Line Manager in the product creation process from concept to finished goods. The Design Assistant supports the team by managing color, print, techsheets, CADS, and print & graphic schematics. Additionally the Design Assistant maintains PLM system integrity, tracks milestones, ensuring that brand positioning, and performance metrics are met before production approval. For individuals entering a creative field, this role provides essential hands-on exposure to the industry flow.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Responsible for administration and follow up of the product design process, with a focus on adobe Illustrator, photoshop and indesign programs to assist in the overall design process.
  • Drive product relevance by synthesizing global market trends and color concepts into commercially viable, brand-right narratives.
  • Drive the visual execution of design concepts by owning the creation of trend and color boards, while providing critical asset and presentation support for key milestone reviews and partner presentations.
  • Champion product integrity by maintaining a meticulous library of accurate Illustrator CADs.
  • Collaborate seamlessly with the Sr. 3D Apparel Designer to review, audit, and perfect all 3D product renderings for cross-functional presentation.
  • Own and deliver clear, highly detailed tech sheets that streamline the development process from initial prototype to final product. Own clear communication of all tech sheet updates to Technical Designers and Product Developers.
  • Work with the Print & Pattern team on print & graphic development - creating concept artwork, assisting with rework of print layouts and schematics, and maintaining color pitch forms, ensuring final print & colorways are correct for development.
  • Create and maintain material and trim development forms.
  • Assist with reviewing product design concepts and prototypes, helping to ensure the product meets all specifications & requirements. Own comparison of prototypes back to mechanicals, and documentation of any variance. Assist with validation of prototypes prior to tooling approval.
  • Attend fitting sessions and/or wear-test sessions, capture necessary revisions to sketches/CADS and tech packs as needed. Partner with Associate Merchandiser & Sr. Product Line Manager to support the communication of updates out to cross-functional partners and vendor partners.
  • Attend development meetings to monitor development progress. Ensure a detailed recap of progress and any issues is provided to the lead PLM when he or she cannot attend meetings.
  • Responsible for updating the team of any style changes and uploading images to the PLM system.
  • Responsible for creating and maintaining all pack & fold instructions.
  • Assists Product Developer & Sr. Product Line Manager in approving lab dips, strike offs, print repeats, etc. and capturing any relevant notes / share out of revisions needed.
  • Responsible for maintaining seasonal overview of all print, fabric, material and trim development.
  • Responsible for maintaining all benefits and details information. Owns the integrity of the PDP pipeline, translating complex product attributes into accurate, consumer-facing verbiage.
  • Supports product development with proofing all new seasonal packaging layouts. Ensures final approved mechanicals are uploaded to the PLM system. Supports Sr. Product Line Manager with any necessary visuals to support the seasonal package briefing process.

SKILLS: 

  • Working knowledge of adobe illustrator, photoshop, and InDesign. Any experience in 3D modeling software (Rhino, etc) is a plus.
  • Foundational knowledge of accessories products, materials, and manufacturing methods.
  • Foundational knowledge and understanding of accessories & softgoods construction.
  • Foundational knowledge of general design principles, and color theory.
  • Ability to create basic 2D product sketches (in Illustrator).
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to prioritize and multitask.

REQUIREMENTS: 

  • BA or BS Degree in Product Design.
  • One year design experience (may include summer jobs, internships, etc.).
  • Proficient in Google suite, Adobe Suite, and working knowledge of Product Lifecycle Management Software.
  • A passion for product.

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