Assistant Designer, Interiors

Overview

KARA MANN designs interior environments that feel warm, layered, and personal. The studio blends heritage with contemporary living, shaping homes that are refined, edited, and built to last. The approach centers on understanding each client’s story and translating it into spaces that feel authentic rather than formulaic.

This position supports the creation and execution of high-end residential projects across every stage, from early concept work through installation. It is a hands-on opportunity to build technical capability, sharpen design judgment, and grow within a luxury interior design setting under experienced leadership.

Compensation and classification

Salary range: $50,000 to $60,000 per year. This is a full-time, salaried, exempt role.

The role reports to the Director of Interiors, Annika Bartz.

Core responsibilities

The assistant designer will contribute to design development, documentation, presentations, sourcing, project coordination, and construction support while learning firm standards and workflows.

• Help maintain furniture, fixtures, and equipment plans, elevations, and custom FFE documentation.
• Support the project through concept, schematic design, design development, construction documents, construction administration, and installation.
• Assist in preparing accurate, complete FFE documentation packages with senior oversight.
• Learn and follow studio expectations for drafting, documentation, and presentation quality.
• Develop Photoshop renderings of plans and elevations for clients and internal reviews.
• Organize and annotate presentation materials carefully under senior direction.
• Communicate professionally with contractors, architects, clients, and vendors.
• Participate in client meetings and presentations to strengthen communication skills.
• Source and organize materials, maintain libraries, and track product information and pricing.
• Research materials and products for both residential and commercial work.
• Support logistics, expediting, and order tracking for FFE items and specifications.
• Build knowledge of vendors, resources, and industry standards.
• Assist with site supervision and help preserve design intent during construction.
• Coordinate with contractors and vendors as needed.
• Work closely with the team, seek mentorship, and contribute positively to a collaborative studio culture.

Qualifications

The firm is looking for an emerging design professional with a strong eye, solid technical foundations, and a genuine interest in luxury residential interiors.

• 0 to 3 years of experience in a similarly sized high-end residential interior design or architecture practice.
• Experience completing or punch-listing a residential or commercial project, or participation in the major phases of design.
• Clear interest in luxury residential design and craftsmanship.
• Bachelor’s degree in interior design or architecture from an accredited university.
• Strong creative talent and a desire to build more advanced project execution skills.
• Basic understanding of interior design practice, documentation, FFE packages, and architectural drawing review.
• Strong problem-solving ability with careful attention to detail.
• Ability to produce detailed, legible drawing sets with growing independence.
• Strong time management, organization, and prioritization skills.
• High standards for accuracy and completeness.
• Effective written and spoken communication.
• Openness to feedback and eagerness to keep learning.
• Team-oriented, adaptable, proactive, and resourceful work style.
• Positive attitude and enthusiasm for design-focused work.
• Required software knowledge: AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite including InDesign and Photoshop, SketchUp, and Microsoft Office.
• Preferred software knowledge: Rhino, V-Ray, Studio Designer, and Outlook.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• 401(k) plan with employer matching of up to 3% of salary.
• Generous paid time off to support work-life balance.
• Parental leave support for new parents and caregivers.
• Clear career growth pathways and development opportunities.
• A workplace culture that respects personal time and commitments.

Equal opportunity statement

The employer is an equal opportunity organization and welcomes candidates from all backgrounds. Hiring decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or veteran status.