Senior Interior Designer

Description:

WHAT YOU’LL DO
As a Senior Interior Designer at DES, you will play a pivotal role in shaping environments that not only reflect client culture and values but also push the boundaries of design excellence, sustainability, and innovation. With extensive experience in complex projects, this role combines strong technical expertise, workplace strategy knowledge, and exceptional client-facing skills to translate brand, culture, and functional goals into thoughtful, high-performing environments.

• Lead the development and execution of comprehensive interior design solutions aligned with client goals, workplace strategy, budget, and schedule.
• Serve as a primary client liaison, confidently leading meetings, workshops, and presentations while translating client vision into innovative, functional design solutions.
• Actively participate in pursuit efforts, including interviews and presentations, articulating design approach, methodology, and relevant experience to help secure new work.
• Generate original design concepts and compelling visual presentations that clearly communicate design intent to clients and stakeholders.
• Facilitate programming sessions and user engagement workshops to translate organizational culture, brand, and operational needs into spatial requirements.
• Guide design teams through the creative process, mentoring junior staff and fostering a collaborative design environment.
• Partner with project managers and technical staff to ensure seamless integration of design intent into construction documents and project delivery.
• Review budgets, specifications, and documentation to maintain alignment with industry standards and design objectives.
• Oversee all phases of the project lifecycle, from contract negotiation and budgeting to planning, design execution, documentation, and construction administration.
• Assist with the technical review of submittals for conformance with design intent and specifications.
• Ensure alignment between design vision, technical documentation, and built outcome.
• Commitment to design excellence, innovation, and personalized client services, including relationship management, problem-solving, decision-making, and collaboration.
• Demonstrate experience delivering projects incorporating sustainable design strategies, carbon reduction initiatives, WELL, Fitwel, LEED, and/or net-zero principles.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, vendors, and industry partners to support project success and long-term business growth.
• Actively guide and support the team in their design stories and concepts. Passionate about empowering and nurturing creative teams and leading by example. Developing and motivating teams along with a desire to mentor team members.
• Engage in industry events and conferences to enhance brand visibility and grow the business. Contribute to publications and increase awareness through active social media outlets.
• Champion design excellence, innovation, and personalized client service through proactive problem-solving, sound decision-making, and strong collaboration.

Requirements:

• 12+ years of experience in interior design, including leadership through all project phases from concept to construction administration.
• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in interior design or equivalent.
• Proven ability to lead the design and execution of large-scale, complex interior projects, ensuring design excellence, technical accuracy, and alignment with client goals and budgets.
• Exceptional client-facing and relationship management skills, with the ability to manage expectations, communicate complex ideas clearly, and maintain client confidence.
• Expertise in programming, space planning, and workplace strategy development, translating client objectives into design solutions.
• Comprehensive understanding of design trends, sustainable practices, and how they inform interior building systems and material selections.
• Strong presentation and communication skills, with the ability to articulate design intent, lead client presentations, and coordinate design direction with internal teams and consultants.
• Proficiency in the following software:

• Revit, 3D Modelling, SketchUp, and Enscape.
• Adobe Creative Suite, Bluebeam, and Microsoft Office.

• Experience in one or more of the following market sectors: Healthcare, Education, Life Science and Workplace.
• Thorough knowledge of architectural practice, including client engagement, programming, planning, design documentation, building materials, and construction methods.
• In-depth understanding of coordination between disciplines, including structural, civil, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems, to ensure cohesive project delivery.
• Strong understanding of current building codes, accessibility standards, and regulatory requirements.
• NCIDQ or CID qualified preferred.
• LEED ID+C, Well and Fitwel credentials preferred.
• Demonstrated experience mentoring design staff and collaborating with project managers, technical designers, and consultants to maintain design intent through all phases.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
• Hybrid work environment, work onsite in both our Redwood City and San Francisco office during our core workdays on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States for any employer without any restrictions or requirement of sponsorship now or in the future

The typical pay range for this position is $130,000 – $150,000 in total compensation. Compensation depends on the individual's skills, experience, education, and geographic location.

Our Purpose

At DES, we are innovators in the architecture, engineering, and construction industry, rooted in our firm’s birthplace in the heart of Silicon Valley. Our team is driven by a passion for technical excellence and a commitment to creating optimized solutions that inspire and elevate. We aim to foster an environment where creativity thrives and challenges are seen as stepping stones to building invaluable relationships with our clients and the Bay Area community.

Join us, and be part of a dynamic team that prioritizes collaboration to redefine what's possible. At DES, we believe that a strong company culture is the backbone of our success. We cultivate a workplace where camaraderie is celebrated, and where fun is an integral part of our workflow. We are looking for individuals who are not just seeking a job, but a career where they can make a meaningful impact. If you're ready to embrace a multidisciplinary way of working, DES is the place for you.

LIFE AT DES

DES is committed to the well-being of our team members and their families. We support a healthy lifestyle and work-life balance.

BENEFITS YOU WILL BE ELIGIBLE FOR:

• Competitive salary & annual bonuses
• 100% company-paid options for employee medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
• 100% company-paid short & long-term disability benefits
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Health Savings Account (HSA) with employer contribution
• Commuter & parking benefits
• Legal consultation & advice
• Identity theft
• Supplemental life insurance & critical illness plans
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Standard & choice holidays
• Employee Assistance Plan (EAP)
• Pet Insurance
• Credit Union
• 401k plan
• Training & career development opportunities
• Annual career development stipend
• 100% Professional licensing & renewal fees
• Licenses & certification bonuses
• Hybrid work schedule working onsite Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays
• Collaborative, friendly, fun, and enriching environment for our team to thrive and grow!

We are proud and committed to being an equal opportunity employer. We welcome, recognize, celebrate, and encourage diversity and inclusion in our workplace. Our teams are comprised of people with experiences from diverse backgrounds which helps us gain a fresh perspective while challenging our own thinking about design. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, religion, color, gender, age, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, disability, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law.

DES participates in the Electronic Employment Verification Program. E-Verify is an Internet-based system that compares information from an employee’s I-9 to data from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and Social Security Administration Records. To learn more, visit: everify.com

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