Lead Designer – Residential Design-Build Remodeling

Create Thoughtful Spaces. Lead Meaningful Client Experiences.

We’re seeking a Lead Designer with experience in residential remodeling and interior design to guide clients through a full design-build process—from initial consultation through design development and project completion. This is a client-facing leadership role focused on thoughtful design, strong relationships, and high-quality execution.

Are you a designer who sees the bigger picture—someone who not only creates beautiful, functional residential spaces, but also builds strong client relationships and leads with confidence?

Do you bring a refined design sensibility, a clear point of view, and the ability to guide others through complex decisions with clarity and care?

At Kraft Custom Construction, we’re looking for a Lead Designer who can step into a true leadership role—someone who elevates both our design work and the client experience from the very first interaction.

You lead with confidence, but not ego. You listen closely, think deeply, and bring a calm, steady presence to both clients and your team. You value collaboration over control and understand that the best outcomes come from thoughtful guidance—not pressure or showmanship.

About Us

Kraft Custom Construction is a second-generation, women-led residential design-build company based in Salem, Oregon. Since 1982, we’ve specialized in thoughtful, high-quality home remodeling and custom construction throughout the Willamette Valley.

Our work is rooted in craftsmanship, trust, and long-term relationships. We take a design-build approach that prioritizes clear communication, detailed planning, and a guided experience so our clients can feel confident every step of the way.

We are a collaborative, people-first team that cares deeply about doing excellent work—and taking care of both our clients and each other.

About the Role

This is not a behind-the-scenes design position.

As our Lead Designer, you will play a central role in shaping both the design direction and the client experience. You’ll be one of the first people a client meets—and the trusted guide they rely on throughout the entire journey.

You will lead projects from initial consultation through design, selections, and ongoing client relationships, ensuring each space is thoughtfully designed, highly functional, and aligned with the client’s goals, lifestyle, and investment.

You understand that great design is not about imposing your ideas, but about guiding clients toward the best outcome for their home.

We’re looking for someone who:

• Has strong design instincts and refined taste, with the ability to translate a client’s vision into a thoughtful, cohesive design
• Can create timeless, well-functioning spaces
• Is confident leading conversations and building trust
• Understands how to balance vision, budget, and constructability
• Enjoys being both client-facing and design-focused

Key Responsibilities

Client Leadership & Relationship Building

• Lead initial client meetings and discovery conversations
• Build trust early by asking questions and listening carefully to understand goals, lifestyle, and priorities
• Guide clients with clarity, professionalism, and calm confidence
• Foster long-term relationships that extend beyond project completion

Design Vision & Development

• Create thoughtful, cohesive design solutions that are functional, timeless, and tailored to each client
• Lead space planning, layout development, and overall design direction
• Curate materials, finishes, and details that elevate the final result
• Balance creativity with practicality, ensuring designs align with budget and construction realities

Presentations & Decision Guidance

• Confidently present design concepts, plans, and selections
• Help clients make informed decisions without overwhelm
• Lead showroom visits and material selections with a clear, curated approach

Project Continuity & Team Collaboration

• Work closely with the internal team to ensure design intent is carried through construction
• Participate in key project milestones including pre-construction meetings and walkthroughs
• Maintain alignment between design vision, client expectations, and execution

Community & Brand Representation

• Represent Kraft Custom Construction at industry events, networking opportunities, and in the community
• Contribute to building strong referral relationships and overall brand presence
• Support the brand through thoughtful contributions to marketing efforts, including project storytelling, social media input, or light graphic/design collaboration as appropriate

What We’re Looking For

• 5+ years of experience in residential design, remodeling, or design-build
• Strong portfolio demonstrating high-quality, well-resolved design work
• Ability to lead both design direction and client relationships with confidence
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong space planning and material selection expertise
• Organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple projects
• Experience with design tools (Chief Architect, Canva, or similar)
• Interest or experience in visual storytelling, branding, or contributing to a cohesive brand presence is a plus

Most importantly, you bring a balance of:

• Design leadership + client empathy
• Vision + practicality
• Confidence + collaboration
• Initiative + alignment with the company’s direction and values

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience
• Performance-based incentives
• Profit sharing program
• 100% Company-Paid Health Insurance & Vision Coverage
• Supplemental Insurance Options
• Mileage & Cell Phone Reimbursement
• Simple IRA with 3% Company Match
• Paid Time Off (PTO)

How to Apply

Please submit your resume and portfolio to be considered.

Final Note

This role is for a designer who takes pride in doing excellent work, values strong relationships, and brings a thoughtful, steady presence to everything they do.

You’ll be part of a team that cares deeply about quality, collaboration, and creating homes that truly stand the test of time.

Pay: $75,000.00 - $100,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Profit sharing
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person