Interior Designer jobs in Iowa

An Interior Designer occupies an intermediate-level creative position in our company. An Interior Designer works directly with the Principal and is a key creative contributor to all phases of high-end Residential and Commercial Interior Design from initial design concept to installation.

The ideal candidate will:

-Be ready to hit the ground running on day one

-Be detail-oriented, highly organized, and a self-starter

-Possess excellent written and verbal communication skills

-Have a solid understanding of both design principles and construction/renovation management

-Must be located within the Cedar Rapids, Iowa area

Education: Undergraduate degree from an accredited interior design or architectural program.

Experience: (2) or more years of experience in Residential and/or Commercial Interior Design. Proficient in design software, including but not limited to, SketchUp, Revit, and CAD. Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Powerpoint, Excel), Adobe Creative Suite.  Design Manager, Asana, and Slack a plus. 

Important attributes:

• Solid understanding of design principles, space planning, and color theory
• Ability to focus on multiple, concurrent projects in various stages of development
• Excellent communication and follow-through skills with team, clients, vendors, and contractors
• Ability to communicate design ideas and direction quickly
• Knowledge of industry ins and outs, sourcing resources, project flow, and design trends
• Possess strong presentation skills – both visual/digital and in-person
• High attention to detail to ensure design intent and technical accuracy
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, adhering to deadlines and maintaining attention to detail
• Willingness to travel for job site visits, project installations, and industry events; some out-of-state travel may be required
• Must be a team player and comfortable working independently

Primary responsibilities:

• Contribute creative insights and technical expertise to various projects
• Assist with identifying accurate project scope of work and developing project investment figures
• Research and source FFE within budget and aesthetic direction
• Source finish samples and develop finish pallets
• Create detailed dimensioned 2D drawings, 3D renderings, and mood boards to effectively communicate design ideas to clients
• Draw various plan types, prepare finish schedules, and other technical documents to communicate design details to contractors
• Work with subcontractors to obtain construction bids
• Review construction docs and other related shop drawings for accuracy and ensure design intent is carried out
• Obtain quotes, specifications, and samples from vendors
• Prepare presentation materials and participate in design presentations to clients; articulate to the team and clients the “why” of the design
• Survey project sites, field measure, and accurately document existing site conditions
• Foster and maintain good client, vendor, and contractor relationships
• Contribute to the overall growth and success of the business by actively participating in team discussions and sharing creative insights

Perks & Benefits:

- Company-paid vacation and sick leave

- Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance
- Enrollment in 401k program

- 35 hour/wk work week

- Summer hours

- Opportunities to attend industry events such as High Point Market, Neocon, etc.

- Family-friendly work culture

The Melanie Olson Design Group team is at the forefront of residential and commercial interiors enriching peoples’ lives through the power of design here in Cedar Rapids, along with other parts of the country.   It’s a legacy we are extremely proud of – and exactly the thing that keeps pushing us, defining standards, and raising the bar at every step along the way.
Our clients and our vendors are the essences of everything we do. Our clients have come back to us – again and again – for our profound understanding of design, our unwavering commitment to quality and beauty, and our unparalleled customer service. It’s an extraordinary history of loyalty and trust.
Of course, being the best means that we’re never satisfied with resting on our laurels. We are constantly challenging ourselves to take things to the next level,  staying true to our core values while anticipating our clients’ ever-changing needs and exceeding their high expectations.
Would love to have you join our team!