Assistant Designer Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship
Assistant Designer roles in the U.S. qualify as specialty occupations under the H-1B visa, meaning employers must file a Labor Condition Application and demonstrate your position requires at least a bachelor's degree in design or a directly related field. Studios, agencies, and in-house teams across fashion, product, and graphic design do sponsor, but competition for petitions is real.
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Position Information
Recruitment/Posting Title Assistant Landscape Designer
Job Category URA-AFT Administrative
Department Planning Development & Design
Overview
The Division of Institutional Planning & Operations (IP&O) employs a workforce of approximately 2,700 staff, represented by 15 collective negotiations agreements, and is responsible for institutional strategic initiatives and operations, which encompasses an expansive range of comprehensive service and business operations across the State of New Jersey. These include planning and construction, facilities, public safety and emergency operations, environmental health and safety, transportation, housing, and auxiliary/retail operations.
Posting Summary
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, is seeking an Assistant Landscape Designer for the Division of Institutional Planning & Operations (IP&O). As a staff member within IP&O – Planning, Development and Design, the Assistant Landscape Designer will work under the supervision, direction, and guidance of the University Landscape Architect (ULA), and is responsible for supporting efforts that are assigned to and undertaken by the ULA.
Among the key duties of this position are the following:
- Planning, designing and guiding proposed improvements to the campus outdoor environment, in a lasting, cost-effective manner which is consistent with the campus master plan, design standards, and environmental regulations. The ULA has responsibilities that are statewide and therefore addresses urban, suburban, rural, agricultural and marine environments.
- It is expected that the Assistant Landscape Designer will have a basic level of knowledge and understanding of the principals and practices of landscape design/architecture (commensurate with the level of experience required for this position and title).
- The landscape designer will be required, on an ongoing basis, to review and become familiar with University Design Standards, ADA/NJ Barrier Free code requirements, NJDEP Stormwater Management statutes, NJ Dept of Ag Soil Erosion and Sediment Control standards and requirements, etc. and any updates, or revisions to applicable regulations, codes, standards, etc.
FLSA Nonexempt
Grade 04
Salary Details
Minimum Salary 59893.480
Mid Range Salary 73909.480
Maximum Salary 87925.480
Offer Information
The final salary offer may be determined by several factors, including, but not limited to, the candidate’s qualifications, experience, and expertise, and availability of department or grant funds to support the position. We also take into consideration market benchmarks, if and when appropriate, and internal equity to ensure fair compensation relative to the university’s broader compensation structure. We are committed to offering competitive and flexible compensation packages to attract and retain top talent.
Benefits
Rutgers provides a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees. The specific benefits vary based on the position and may include:
- Medical, prescription drug, and dental coverage
- Paid vacation, holidays, and various leave programs
- Competitive retirement benefits, including defined contribution plans and voluntary tax-deferred savings options
- Employee and dependent educational benefits (when applicable)
- Life insurance coverage
- Employee discount programs
Position Status Full Time
Working Hours
Standard Hours 37.50
Daily Work Shift Day
Work Arrangement
Union Description URA-AFT Administrative
Payroll Designation PeopleSoft
Seniority Unit
Terms of Appointment Staff - 12 month
Position Pension Eligibility ABP
Qualifications
Minimum Education and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in landscape architecture and two (2) years of relevant experience in landscape design/architecture, or an equivalent combination of education and/or experience.
Certifications/Licenses
- Valid driving license
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Understanding of stormwater management best management practices (low impact development and green infrastructure).
- Native and ornamental landscape woody and herbaceous plant identification.
- Thorough knowledge of computer aided design (CAD), graphic, publishing and presentation software is a must, including but not limited to AutoCAD, Rhinoceros, Sketchup, Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, and other graphic software. GIS is desirable.
- Understanding of basic principles of urban forestry or urban forest management, planting design, sustainable design, resilient design.
- Professional or academic training/background in arboriculture/urban forestry with the credential or potential to achieve ISA Certified Arborist credential.
- Familiarity and experience with the ADA Standards for Accessible Design and the NJ Barrier Free Sub-code.
- Site grading and drainage design, construction detailing and design.
- Ability and experience working in a team environment.
- Strong communication skills are required, as is the ability to work with a wide range of technical, professional, and academic personnel.
Preferred Qualifications
- Master’s degree in landscape architecture is preferred.
Equipment Utilized
Physical Demands and Work Environment
- This position will require walking on uneven surfaces and varying terrain, visiting developed and undeveloped sites, visiting active construction sites, being out-of-doors during hot, cold, and other inclement weather, and travel to remote university locations.
- This position will not require accessing or being within hazardous environments or confined spaces.
- The position requires the flexibility to work in an office environment and out-of-doors.
Special Conditions
- Safe Driving Record
Posting Details
Posting Number 26ST2106
Posting Open Date 11/12/2026
Special Instructions to Applicants
Regional Campus Rutgers University-New Brunswick
Home Location Campus Off Campus
City Piscataway
State NJ
Location Details
33 Knightsbridge Rd.
Pre-employment Screenings
All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of all pre-employment screenings.
Immunization Requirements
Under Policy 100.3.1 Immunization Policy for Covered Individuals, if employment will commence during Flu Season, Rutgers University may require certain prospective employees to provide proof that they are vaccinated against Seasonal Influenza for the current Flu Season, unless the University has granted the individual a medical or religious exemption. Additional infection control and safety policies may apply. Prospective employees should speak with their hiring manager to determine which policies apply to the role or position for which they are applying. Failure to provide proof of vaccination for any required vaccines or obtain a medical or religious exemption from the University will result in rescission of a candidate’s offer of employment or disciplinary action up to and including termination.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
It is university policy to provide equal employment opportunity to all its employees and applicants for employment regardless of their race, creed, color, national origin, age, ancestry, nationality, marital or domestic partnership or civil union status, sex, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, disability status, liability for military service, protected veteran status, affectional or sexual orientation, atypical cellular or blood trait, genetic information (including the refusal to submit to genetic testing), or any other category protected by law. As an institution, we encourage all qualified applicants to apply. For additional information please see the Non-Discrimination Statement at the following web address: http://uhr.rutgers.edu/non-discrimination-statement
Supplemental Questions
Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).
- Are you a current member of URA-AFT?
- Yes
- No
- Do you have a Bachelor’s degree in landscape architecture and two (2) years of relevant experience in landscape design/architecture, or an equivalent combination of education and/or experience?
- Yes
- No
- Do you have a valid driver’s license?
- Yes
- No
Applicant Documents
Required Documents
- Resume/CV
- Cover Letter/Letter of Application
- Portfolio
Optional Documents
- Writing Sample 1
- List of Professional References (contact Info)
Position Details
Position Information
Recruitment/Posting Title Assistant Landscape Designer
Job Category URA-AFT Administrative
Department Planning Development & Design
Overview
The Division of Institutional Planning & Operations (IP&O) employs a workforce of approximately 2,700 staff, represented by 15 collective negotiations agreements, and is responsible for institutional strategic initiatives and operations, which encompasses an expansive range of comprehensive service and business operations across the State of New Jersey. These include planning and construction, facilities, public safety and emergency operations, environmental health and safety, transportation, housing, and auxiliary/retail operations.
Posting Summary
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, is seeking an Assistant Landscape Designer for the Division of Institutional Planning & Operations (IP&O). As a staff member within IP&O – Planning, Development and Design, the Assistant Landscape Designer will work under the supervision, direction, and guidance of the University Landscape Architect (ULA), and is responsible for supporting efforts that are assigned to and undertaken by the ULA.
Among the key duties of this position are the following:
- Planning, designing and guiding proposed improvements to the campus outdoor environment, in a lasting, cost-effective manner which is consistent with the campus master plan, design standards, and environmental regulations. The ULA has responsibilities that are statewide and therefore addresses urban, suburban, rural, agricultural and marine environments.
- It is expected that the Assistant Landscape Designer will have a basic level of knowledge and understanding of the principals and practices of landscape design/architecture (commensurate with the level of experience required for this position and title).
- The landscape designer will be required, on an ongoing basis, to review and become familiar with University Design Standards, ADA/NJ Barrier Free code requirements, NJDEP Stormwater Management statutes, NJ Dept of Ag Soil Erosion and Sediment Control standards and requirements, etc. and any updates, or revisions to applicable regulations, codes, standards, etc.
FLSA Nonexempt
Grade 04
Salary Details
Minimum Salary 59893.480
Mid Range Salary 73909.480
Maximum Salary 87925.480
Offer Information
The final salary offer may be determined by several factors, including, but not limited to, the candidate’s qualifications, experience, and expertise, and availability of department or grant funds to support the position. We also take into consideration market benchmarks, if and when appropriate, and internal equity to ensure fair compensation relative to the university’s broader compensation structure. We are committed to offering competitive and flexible compensation packages to attract and retain top talent.
Benefits
Rutgers provides a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees. The specific benefits vary based on the position and may include:
- Medical, prescription drug, and dental coverage
- Paid vacation, holidays, and various leave programs
- Competitive retirement benefits, including defined contribution plans and voluntary tax-deferred savings options
- Employee and dependent educational benefits (when applicable)
- Life insurance coverage
- Employee discount programs
Position Status Full Time
Working Hours
Standard Hours 37.50
Daily Work Shift Day
Work Arrangement
Union Description URA-AFT Administrative
Payroll Designation PeopleSoft
Seniority Unit
Terms of Appointment Staff - 12 month
Position Pension Eligibility ABP
Qualifications
Minimum Education and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in landscape architecture and two (2) years of relevant experience in landscape design/architecture, or an equivalent combination of education and/or experience.
Certifications/Licenses
- Valid driving license
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Understanding of stormwater management best management practices (low impact development and green infrastructure).
- Native and ornamental landscape woody and herbaceous plant identification.
- Thorough knowledge of computer aided design (CAD), graphic, publishing and presentation software is a must, including but not limited to AutoCAD, Rhinoceros, Sketchup, Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, and other graphic software. GIS is desirable.
- Understanding of basic principles of urban forestry or urban forest management, planting design, sustainable design, resilient design.
- Professional or academic training/background in arboriculture/urban forestry with the credential or potential to achieve ISA Certified Arborist credential.
- Familiarity and experience with the ADA Standards for Accessible Design and the NJ Barrier Free Sub-code.
- Site grading and drainage design, construction detailing and design.
- Ability and experience working in a team environment.
- Strong communication skills are required, as is the ability to work with a wide range of technical, professional, and academic personnel.
Preferred Qualifications
- Master’s degree in landscape architecture is preferred.
Equipment Utilized
Physical Demands and Work Environment
- This position will require walking on uneven surfaces and varying terrain, visiting developed and undeveloped sites, visiting active construction sites, being out-of-doors during hot, cold, and other inclement weather, and travel to remote university locations.
- This position will not require accessing or being within hazardous environments or confined spaces.
- The position requires the flexibility to work in an office environment and out-of-doors.
Special Conditions
- Safe Driving Record
Posting Details
Posting Number 26ST2106
Posting Open Date 11/12/2026
Special Instructions to Applicants
Regional Campus Rutgers University-New Brunswick
Home Location Campus Off Campus
City Piscataway
State NJ
Location Details
33 Knightsbridge Rd.
Pre-employment Screenings
All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of all pre-employment screenings.
Immunization Requirements
Under Policy 100.3.1 Immunization Policy for Covered Individuals, if employment will commence during Flu Season, Rutgers University may require certain prospective employees to provide proof that they are vaccinated against Seasonal Influenza for the current Flu Season, unless the University has granted the individual a medical or religious exemption. Additional infection control and safety policies may apply. Prospective employees should speak with their hiring manager to determine which policies apply to the role or position for which they are applying. Failure to provide proof of vaccination for any required vaccines or obtain a medical or religious exemption from the University will result in rescission of a candidate’s offer of employment or disciplinary action up to and including termination.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
It is university policy to provide equal employment opportunity to all its employees and applicants for employment regardless of their race, creed, color, national origin, age, ancestry, nationality, marital or domestic partnership or civil union status, sex, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, disability status, liability for military service, protected veteran status, affectional or sexual orientation, atypical cellular or blood trait, genetic information (including the refusal to submit to genetic testing), or any other category protected by law. As an institution, we encourage all qualified applicants to apply. For additional information please see the Non-Discrimination Statement at the following web address: http://uhr.rutgers.edu/non-discrimination-statement
Supplemental Questions
Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).
- Are you a current member of URA-AFT?
- Yes
- No
- Do you have a Bachelor’s degree in landscape architecture and two (2) years of relevant experience in landscape design/architecture, or an equivalent combination of education and/or experience?
- Yes
- No
- Do you have a valid driver’s license?
- Yes
- No
Applicant Documents
Required Documents
- Resume/CV
- Cover Letter/Letter of Application
- Portfolio
Optional Documents
- Writing Sample 1
- List of Professional References (contact Info)
See all Assistant Designer Jobs
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding Visa Sponsorship as an Assistant Designer
Build a portfolio that proves specialty occupation
Consular officers and USCIS adjudicators look for evidence your role requires a specific design degree, not just creative skills. Document the connection between your coursework and each project so employers can clearly articulate the specialty occupation requirement in their petition.
Search verified sponsoring employers on Migrate Mate
Filter Assistant Designer roles by employers with confirmed LCA filing history on Migrate Mate. Targeting companies that have already filed for design positions saves you from applying to studios that have never navigated the sponsorship process.
Check prevailing wage tiers before accepting offers
Use the OFLC Wage Search to look up the Level I and Level II wage for your design occupation code in the city where you'd work. An offer below the certified prevailing wage will fail the LCA stage, so verify this before negotiations stall.
Distinguish your degree field from general fine arts
USCIS scrutinizes whether a graphic design, industrial design, or fashion design degree specifically qualifies the role. Gather transcripts and course descriptions that show your program was directly relevant, not a broad arts degree with elective design coursework.
Time OPT applications to cover the H-1B cap gap
If you're on F-1 OPT, your STEM OPT extension can bridge you through an H-1B lottery cycle. Confirm your design degree program holds a STEM-designated CIP code with your DSO before your initial 12-month OPT period expires.
Ask employers about cap-exempt filing options
Design roles at universities, nonprofit research organizations, or affiliated institutions may qualify for cap-exempt H-1B petitions, bypassing the annual lottery entirely. Ask hiring managers directly whether the organization holds cap-exempt status before the offer stage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does an Assistant Designer role qualify as a specialty occupation for the H-1B?
It can, but it's not automatic. USCIS requires the employer to show the position normally requires at least a bachelor's degree in a directly related field such as graphic design, industrial design, or a closely aligned discipline. Generic assistant roles where any bachelor's degree is acceptable often face Requests for Evidence, so the job description and degree alignment both matter significantly.
Which visa types realistically cover Assistant Designer positions?
The H-1B is the most common path for employer-sponsored design roles. Australian nationals can use the E-3 visa, which has the same specialty occupation requirement but no lottery and a separate annual cap that has never been exhausted. F-1 students can work as Assistant Designers during OPT or STEM OPT if the role directly relates to their design degree program.
What degree do I need for an employer to sponsor my Assistant Designer visa?
A bachelor's degree in graphic design, visual communication, industrial design, fashion design, or a closely related field is the standard threshold. Degrees in fine arts or general art history can qualify if your coursework heavily focused on applied design. O*NET classifies design occupations under job zones that typically require this level of specialized education.
How do I find Assistant Designer jobs where the employer actually sponsors visas?
Browse Assistant Designer roles on Migrate Mate, which lists employers with verified sponsorship history so you're not guessing which studios and agencies have filed before. Applying only to confirmed sponsoring employers dramatically improves your chances of reaching the offer stage.
Can an employer sponsor an Assistant Designer for a green card?
Yes. Most employer-sponsored green cards for design roles go through the EB-3 skilled worker category, which requires at least two years of experience and a PERM labor certification filed with DOL. The employer must demonstrate no qualified U.S. workers were available for the role. Processing timelines vary significantly depending on your country of birth due to per-country limits.
What is the prevailing wage requirement for sponsored Assistant Designer jobs?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.