Design Assistant

Position Overview

The Design Assistant will work closely with our Principal Designer and Lead Designers to support the daily execution of multiple residential and commercial projects. This is a hands-on position that combines creative design assistance, project organization, administrative support, and coordination with vendors and trade partners. This role is ideal for an emerging designer who wants hands-on exposure to the entire design process while developing technical skills, industry knowledge, and project management experience.

What We're Looking For

We are looking for someone who takes initiative, anticipates the needs of the design team, and understands the importance of organization and accuracy in a full-service design studio. The Design Assistant will work under the guidance of our Lead Designers, with opportunities to take on additional design and documentation responsibilities as their skills and experience develop. The ideal candidate is proactive, resourceful, eager to learn, and comfortable working in a fast-paced, collaborative environment. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities are essential.

Key Responsibilities

Design Development & Presentation Support

Assist Lead Designers with conceptual and detailed design development, including furniture layouts, material selections, finish selections, and design presentations.Create and update floor plans, elevations, wall details, and renderings using Chief Architect, based on direction from Lead Designers.Assist in preparing client presentations, mood boards, material samples, and presentation materials.Source furniture, lighting, finishes, and materials based on project design direction.Coordinate ordering and pickup of samples in advance of client presentations.Revise presentations, drawings, and selections based on client feedback and designer direction.

Project Documentation & Organization

Maintain accurate project files, specifications, selections, and meeting notes throughout each phase of the design process.Assist in creating and updating project specification books, material schedules, and construction site binders.Prepare and update product proposals, ensuring accurate specifications, dimensions, finishes, pricing, and product information.Organize material samples, presentation boards, and project selection bins.Support project organization within Google Drive, Asana, Mydoma, and other internal platforms.Assist in preparing proposals and selection documentation for client approvals and sign-offs.

Client Meetings and Project Coordination

Attend client vision meetings, design presentations, and occasional trade meetings alongside Lead Designers.Document meeting discussions, client feedback, selections, and action items.Take site photographs, videos, and preliminary measurements to support design development.Maintain organized and accurate meeting records and communicate relevant updates to the design team.Assist with coordinating project information between designers, vendors, and trade partners.

Vendor Coordination & Studio Support

Communicate with vendors to confirm product availability, specifications, pricing,and lead times.Coordinate material sample pickups, deliveries, and returns.Maintain and organize the studio's material library.Assist with day-to-day design tasks, project preparation, and administrative responsibilities as needed.Support the design team in meeting project deadlines and maintaining an organized, efficient workflow.Qualifications

MUST HAVES:

Degree or continuing coursework in Interior Design, Interior Architecture, or a closely related fieldProficiency in Canva, Google Workspace, and general computer applications.Strong organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail.Ability to work in-person in Rochester Hills, Michigan, and surrounding areas. PREFERRED:

Familiarity with Chief Architect or comparable drafting/design software.Previous experience in an interior design studio or related industry.How to Apply

Please submit your resume, a brief introduction, and a portfolio or examples of relevant design work for consideration to Studio Manager Leah Reblin- [email protected]