Design Associate

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Job description

Working with the Principals and other designers, the Design Associate is a key creative contributor to all phases of high-end, residential interior design from initial design concept to installation. This position requires a strong knowledge of design, showrooms, drafting, space planning, and custom furniture design. This is an exempt position requiring critical thinking and independent judgment in the course of daily interactions with peers, clients and vendors.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Support the Principals and Senior Designer in the implementation and management of several residential interior design projects from initial planning through project completion.

Oversee process of gathering quotes and creating accurate design proposals. With assistance from Assistant Designer, create and prepare proposals and proposal packages for submission to clients. Communicate in a timely manner regarding proposals, receipts, and payments due to vendors.

Oversee preparation and submission of purchase orders to vendors. Create POs as needed.

Assist the Senior Designer in creating project budgets. Provide input regarding scope, feasibility,staffing, scheduling, and budget requirements of each project.

Prepare floor, space, and furniture plans and elevations in AutoCAD, and produce hand drawings orcomputer renderings that communicate design intent.

Assist the Senior Designer with project management and delegate tasks as needed to the Assistant Designer and interns.

Prepare and maintain interior design plan documents such as finish schedules, specifications, product/room matrices, templates, schedules, and shop drawings.

Source furniture, fabrics, fixtures, and finishes in line with client needs and the Principals design vision.

Work with the Project Coordinator in the tracking and coordination of all reserves, CFAs, lead times,inspections, deliveries, and installations. Ensure review of items for approval with vendor and client.

Maintain continual communication with Principals, Senior Designer and design team staff regarding project timelines and orders, including the progress of custom orders, timing for fabric selections, workroom inspections, and other project-related information. Report to Principals and Senior Designer via updates and weekly Designer Meetings.

As needed, represent KWD at meetings with clients, architects, contractors and vendors, and organize and attend installations. Relay relevant information to Principal and design team.

Track and coordinate all reserves, CFAs, lead times, inspections, deliveries, and installations.

Develop long-term relationships with clients, design showrooms and vendors.

Maintain all project-related information in paper filing systems, electronic folders, and Studio IT.

Assist in the weekly maintenance of the office.

Other duties as assigned.

REPORTING RELATIONSHIP:

This position functions under the direct supervision of the Founder, Design Principals, and Senior Project Manager.

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS:

4-year degree in Interior Design or Interior Architecture or equivalent skill set

At least five to seven years of experience working within a firm doing high-end residential design

Experience managing projects with specified budgets and timelines

Experience and comfort working in a dynamic, fast-paced environment

Strong technical knowledge of design genres

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

Intermediate to advanced skills in AutoCAD and Sketch Up

Creative problem-solving, organization, and time management skills

Knowledge of or ability to quickly learn Studio IT

Knowledge of Microsoft Office

Working knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite

Must possess a high level of creativity and ingenuity, and an eye for style

Clear and concise communication skills, both verbal and written

Ability to interact with peers, management, and other staff in a professional manner

Ability to work within a team and proactively create harmonious and professional relationships

Willingness to observe company policies, procedures and the instructions of the Principal and

management

Experience in furniture and product design helpful

Benefits

Competitive slaray and benefits