Junior Interior Design Associate

Echelon Arch + Design is a forward-thinking, boutique architectural and interior design firm dedicated to delivering innovative, community-focused design solutions. Our work spans multiple sectors, including a growing presence in educational environments. We are collaborative by nature, intentional in our process, and committed to design excellence. As our firm continues to expand, we are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Junior Interior Design Associate to join our Interiors team.

SUMMARY: The Junior Interior Design Associate is a full-time, on-site position based in one of Echelon's three offices Overland Park (Kansas), Independence (Kansas) or Pittsburg (Kansas). This is a key supporting role in the development and delivery of interior design projects from concept through construction. Working closely with the Interior Design Project Manager and senior team members, this position contributes to design ideation, documentation, material selection, and project coordination.

This is an excellent opportunity for an emerging design professional who is eager to gain hands-on experience, refine technical skills, and grow within a collaborative and fast-paced studio environment. The ideal candidate demonstrates creativity, organization, strong technical aptitude, and a commitment to design excellence. This position is on-site in one of three of Echelon's offices: Overland Park, Kansas; Pittsburg, Kansas; Independence, Kansas.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Design Development & Creative Support

• Collaborate with senior designers to develop interior design concepts that respond to client goals, programmatic needs, and budgets.
• Assist with space planning, finish selection, material palettes, and furniture sourcing.
• Compile and generate finish boards, sample trays, and presentation materials for client meetings and approvals. Development of mood boards, renderings, and design presentations.

Documentation & Technical Support

• Assist in the production of design drawings and specifications using Revit and other industry-standard software.
• Support the development of interior architectural elements, including millwork, cabinetry, lighting, and finish detailing.
• Maintain accuracy and attention to detail in drawings and documentation.
• Support coordination of construction documents and consultant information.

Project Coordination & Support

• Assist with organizing project files, maintaining schedules, and tracking deliverables.
• Participate in site visits and project meetings with clients, contractors, and vendors to help ensure design intent is communicated and implemented.
• Support coordination of FF&E selections, vendor communication, and product information.

Interiors Department Support

• Coordinate vendor representative meetings and product updates for the Interiors Department.
• Organize and maintain office resource libraries and finish sample libraries.
• Maintain and organize client finish sample trays for active projects.
• Support internal standards and organization related to interiors materials and documentation.

PREFERRED SKILLS & EXPERIENCE

Interior Design & Technical Knowledge

• Strong hand-sketching skills for ideation and concept communication.
• Knowledge of lighting design principles and interior detailing.
• Familiarity with FF&E procurement processes, including sourcing, budgeting, and purchasing.
• Experience creating interior construction documents and detailing millwork, cabinetry, and finishes.

Software Proficiency

• Proficiency in Revit for drafting and documentation.
• Familiarity with Enscape for rendering and visualization (preferred).
• Working knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite and Adobe Acrobat Pro.
• Basic proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.

Communication & Collaboration

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to clearly communicate design intent and technical information.
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively within a team environment.

Problem Solving & Organization

• Strong organizational skills to manage timelines, resources, and deliverables.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Critical thinking skills to troubleshoot design and documentation challenges.

Codes & Construction Awareness

• Working knowledge of building systems, materials, and construction methods.
• Understanding of applicable building codes and regulations related to interior design.
• Ability to support code-compliant design solutions.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design or related field from an accredited institution.
• 1–3 years of professional interior design experience.
• Strong understanding of design processes, architectural principles, and construction documentation.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines in a collaborative environment.
• Positive attitude with a strong desire to learn and grow professionally.
• Demonstrated attention to detail and commitment to high-quality work.

PHYSICAL QUALIFICATIONS:

• Ability to sit for prolonged periods of time
• Ability to stand for prolonged periods of time
• This position requires physical dexterity and ability to negotiate around an office area, and around a crowded and busy working area, including construction sites.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY

The statements contained herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of employees so classified.

Echelon provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, working conditions, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Please note: We kindly request that recruiters or agencies refrain from contacting us regarding this posting.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $50,000.00 - $65,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Health insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift

Application Question(s):

• Do you currently live within commuting distance to Overland Park (Kansas), Pittsburg(Kansas) or Independence (Kansas)?

Experience:

• Interior design: 2 years (Required)

Work Location: In person