Interior Designer - Lead

Lead Interior Designer (Residential)

Mullen Design Co. | San Diego, CA (Hybrid)

About Mullen Design Co.

Mullen Design Co. is a nationally recognized interior design and renovation studio known for our refined, minimal aesthetic and deeply personalized approach. We specialize in creating elevated residential spaces that feel intentional, timeless, and distinctly tailored to the way our clients live.

Our work extends beyond full-service design to include consultations, educational workshops, and a curated retail experience through our storefront—allowing us to engage with design at every level.

The Role

We are seeking a Lead Interior Designer to lead residential projects from concept through installation. This is a senior, client-facing role for a designer who brings a strong point of view, a high level of taste, and the ability to execute with precision.

You will guide clients through a highly considered design process, lead creative direction, and ensure each project is carried through with clarity and intention. This role offers both collaboration and autonomy—ideal for someone who is confident taking ownership while contributing to a design-driven team environment.

This position is primarily in-person, with flexibility for a hybrid schedule depending on project phase.

What You’ll Do

Creative Direction & Design Leadership

Lead residential projects from concept through final installation
Develop thoughtful space plans, material palettes, and furnishings aligned with our aesthetic
Oversee the creation of mood boards, renderings, and construction documentation
Ensure a cohesive, elevated design vision is maintained throughout

Client Experience

Serve as the primary point of contact for clients
Lead presentations with clarity, confidence, and a strong design perspective
Guide clients through decision-making with a refined and thoughtful approach

Project Oversight

Manage timelines, budgets, and overall project flow with precision
Coordinate closely with contractors, vendors, and trades
Oversee installations and final styling to ensure a polished result

Procurement & Sourcing

Source furnishings, materials, and finishes at a high level
Cultivate and manage vendor and trade relationships
Oversee procurement from specification through delivery

What We’re Looking For

5+ years of residential interior design experience
A strong, highly curated portfolio aligned with a refined, minimal aesthetic
Proven ability to lead projects and manage client relationships at a high level
A strong design point of view with attention to detail, materiality, and proportion
Proficiency in SketchUp, Layout, and visual presentation tools
Experience with photorealistic rendering tools such as Enscape, V-Ray, or similar
Strong working knowledge of Adobe Photoshop for render refinement and presentation
Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
A thoughtful, proactive approach to both design and execution

Compensation & Benefits

Competitive salary based on experience and skill ($80,000 – $110,000)
Performance-based bonuses
Paid holidays & PTO
Partial health care plan provided
Hybrid flexibility and work-from-home opportunities
Professional development and continuing education opportunities
Trade access and industry events
Employee discounts
A supportive, growth-oriented team environment

To Apply

Please submit your resume and portfolio. A strong portfolio and alignment with our aesthetic are essential.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $80,000.00 - $110,000.00 per year

Work Location: Hybrid remote in San Marcos, CA 92078