Template Layer that is hidden on export

[default0gk9fba2ucw0]

Is there a "template layer" (like in illustrator) equivalent in after effects? For example, we made a grid that is used for layout, but we do not want it to appear in the export,

[Mylenium]

It's called guide layers. I suggest you actually read the online help on basics like layer switches and render settings that are relevant for this stuff.

Mylenium

[P.M.B]

Right click on the layer and select "Guide"  A blue hashtag should appear next to the layers name