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Interior Design Manager

Interior Design Manager

Position Summary

The Project Manager is responsible for leading commercial interior design projects from concept through completion. This role oversees project planning, client coordination, design documentation, and technical execution to ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and aligned with design intent.

The Project Manager works closely with designers, consultants, vendors, and contractors to coordinate all phases of the project, while also managing construction documentation, technical detailing, and regulatory compliance.

Key Responsibilities

Project Management

Lead and manage commercial interior design projects from programming through construction administration.
Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, consultants, and contractors.
Develop and maintain project schedules, budgets, and work plans.
Coordinate internal design teams and external consultants including architects, engineers, lighting designers, and specialty vendors.
Monitor project progress and proactively address schedule, scope, or budget issues.
Facilitate regular project meetings with clients, consultants, and internal teams.
Ensure all project deliverables meet quality standards and client expectations.
Track project hours, scope changes, and contract compliance.

Design Coordination

Collaborate with design leadership to ensure project goals and design intent are maintained throughout all project phases.
Oversee space planning, design development, and documentation efforts.
Review drawings, presentations, and specifications for accuracy and completeness.
Coordinate FF&E, finish selections, and product specifications with the design team.
Support design presentations and client reviews.

Technical Documentation

Lead the preparation and coordination of construction documents including plans, elevations, sections, details, and schedules.
Develop and maintain drawing sets using Revit, AutoCAD, or similar BIM/CAD platforms.
Coordinate documentation with architecture, engineering, and specialty consultants.
Ensure compliance with applicable building codes, ADA requirements, life safety standards, and local regulations.
Review shop drawings, submittals, and RFIs during the construction phase.
Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior designers and production staff.

Construction Administration

Participate in contractor coordination meetings and site visits.
Respond to RFIs and review submittals for conformance with design intent.
Review and approve material samples and shop drawings.
Coordinate issue resolution during construction.
Track installation progress and assist with project closeout.

Team Leadership

Guide and mentor designers and junior staff assigned to projects.
Delegate tasks effectively and ensure clear communication across the project team.
Foster collaboration between design, technical, and vendor partners.

Qualifications

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design, Interior Architecture, or related field.

Experience

6–10+ years of experience in commercial interior design.
Proven experience managing projects through construction documentation and installation.

Technical Skills

Proficiency in Revit and/or AutoCAD, Sketchup.
Strong understanding of construction documentation standards.
Knowledge of commercial building codes, accessibility requirements, and life safety.
Experience coordinating with architects, engineers, and contractors.

Professional Skills

Excellent project management and organizational abilities.
Strong communication and client relationship skills.
Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
Detail-oriented with strong technical problem-solving skills.

Preferred Qualifications

NCIDQ certification or working toward certification.
Experience with workplace, hospitality, retail, or mixed-use commercial projects.
Familiarity with FF&E specification and procurement processes.
Experience with project management tools and specification software.

Key Competencies