Receptionist/Design Assistant

Receptionist/Design Assistant Location: Merivale Showroom Work contract starting at 1 year. Design assistants are also responsible for the maintenance of the showroom and samples as well as assisting the design team as needed. Main duties · Assist Designers in developing plans, elevations, cross sections and detailed drawings, and may advise on selection of colours, finishes and materials, taking into account ergonomic and occupational health standards · Assisting Designers with estimating costs and materials required · Assisting Designers with preparing plans and specifications for the final interior designs in accordance with current practices and codes · Assisting where necessary to coordinate timelines with the customer and/or outside contractors for installation of final design · Work in a multidisciplinary environment · Prepares necessary documents and transmits and files copies to the relevant offices within the company · Assisting with drawing up contracts with the customer for scope of work · Collect payments from customers as outlined in contracts where necessary · Contacting clients to provide information or ask questions on behalf of a designer or manager Working Conditions · Workspace located in a retail showroom · Some evenings and weekend are required Skills and Competencies Required Education: · A university degree or college diploma in Interior Design is required. Experience: · Prior experience in kitchen and bath design is highly desirable · Familiarity with general office equipment is highly desirable · Knowledge of the renovation process is highly desirable · Previous retail and customer service experience is highly desirable Communication: · Strong interpersonal skills are a must · Strong listening skills are a must in order to understand the client’s desires · Strong oral communications skills is a must · Knowledge of French is highly desirable Physical Demands: · Possible extended periods of standing while on showroom duty or assisting customers with product selection may be required · Possible extended periods of sitting and computer work will be required while working on designs · Lifting under 20lbs, reaching and bending will be required while assisting customers with product selection · Visits to jobsites or production floor may require safety equipment (safety glasses, safety shoes, hard hat) to be wornL Mental Demands: · Ability to respond to customer inquiries regarding product, prices, terms, etc. · Ability to learn product codes of popular items, product lines and supplier information Other Competencies: · Ability to problem solve in a efficient and effective manner while keeping sight of the company goals and values is associated with superior job performance · Ability to work independently while achieving or exceeding goals is associated with superior job performance · Ability to maintain a calm and professional demeanor at all times is associated with superior job performance