Custer

As our Fort Wayne region continues to build momentum and expand its presence within the community, we’re seeking a driven Interior Designer to help translate client vision into purposeful, high-performing spaces that reflect our commitment to thoughtful design, technical excellence, and seamless project execution. The Interior Designer will bring our clients’ vision to life — translating strategy into thoughtfully crafted environments that inspire, perform, and endure. We’re seeking a design professional who thrives at the intersection of creativity and execution — someone who can confidently lead client conversations, manage multiple complex projects, and collaborate seamlessly with Business Development, Sales, Operations, and trade partners to deliver cohesive, buildable solutions that elevate every space we touch. Job Responsibilities • Demonstrates a deep understanding of design thinking principles and applies strategic design methodologies across projects • Translates abstract concepts and client vision into functional, creative design solutions using a broad range of programming information and tools • Designs holistically across the built environment — integrating commercial furniture, custom solutions, and interior finish packages to deliver cohesive project outcomes that align with client goals and project scope • Creates clear, detailed architectural drawings that communicate design intent and support project execution • Follows established design processes while demonstrating confidence to suggest alternative solutions when appropriate. Speaks up in group settings and contributes meaningfully to team discussions • Designs with an understanding of applicable codes, life safety standards, and best practices, ensuring compliance in all project deliverables • Identifies site conditions, raises concerns appropriately, and communicates solutions clearly to clients, project managers, and trade partners • Demonstrates excellent communication skills, creating clear and accurate drawings for trades coordination and client understanding • Leads interactive, technology-driven design sessions with clients, delivering persuasive and engaging live design experiences • Communicates candidly and objectively, setting realistic expectations with internal teams, sales partners, and clients while consistently meeting deadlines • Displays a high level of attention to detail, proactively raising potential concerns, asking clarifying questions, and seeking feedback for improvement • Seeks opportunities to grow personally and professionally, bringing ideas and areas of interest to leadership for development • Organizes and delivers effective digital presentations, showcasing design solutions with clarity and impact • Identifies opportunities within projects to expand scope and create additional value for the client and business • Demonstrate attentiveness and responsiveness in communication, maintaining appropriate turnaround times for deliverables

You'll have the opportunity to contribute to real client projects, learn from experienced professionals, and develop the skills needed to launch a successful career in interior design. If you are passionate about design, eager to learn, and excited to contribute to spaces that positively impact people and communities, we'd love to connect with you. The Interior Design Intern supports the Design team in bringing creative concepts to life while gaining hands-on experience in a fast-paced, collaborative environment. You will assist in project development, material sourcing, vendor coordination, and client support while learning Custer's processes and best practices. Design & Project Support • Assist with finish selections and development of presentation boards throughout various project phases • Support designers in research and sourcing of materials, furnishings, and resources • Explore a range of vendors and product solutions to help keep Custer diversified and on the leading edge of design • Help in the field as needed, supporting installations and site visits

Custer creates exceptional workspaces that empower people to do their best work. Established in 1981, Custer now serves multiple territories reaching outside of West Michigan as a premier dealership of Steelcase furniture. We know that the future is in young designers and want to engage with top talent who are looking forward to someday putting their fingerprint on the built environment through good design. Skills • Knowledge of design thinking and strategies • Responds well to mentorship and guided tasks • Has a drive for continuous improvement and looks for opportunities to grow • Can generate creative ideas for keeping Custer design relevant and on the leading edge in the design field • Self-starter that wants to get things done, ambitious and driven • Adaptable and open to change, excited to take on new responsibilities • Excellent communication skills, can articulate ideas clearly • Able to stay on task, manage timelines and follow through on deadlines • Can engage with clients in a professional manner • Deliver materials to local clients or prep for shipping • Visit local vendors to select and\or pick up project resources • Set-up and participate in manufacturer rep. presentations, update staff on new relevant product and literature as they become available • Follow Custer’s process, best practices and embraces company core values • Supports Custer and Design Department strategic goals and objectives • explores a range of resources and vendors to keep Custer well diversified • Help out in field as needed

furniture, Custer delivers spaces that support a better way of working Key Responsibilities • Demonstrates a deep understanding of design thinking principles and applies strategic design methodologies across projects • Translates abstract concepts and client vision into functional, creative design solutions using a broad range of programming information and tools • Designs holistically across the built environment — integrating commercial furniture, custom solutions, and interior finish packages to deliver cohesive project outcomes that align with client goals and project scope • Creates clear, detailed architectural drawings that communicate design intent and support project execution • Follow established design processes while demonstrating confidence to suggest alternative solutions when appropriate. Speaks up in group settings and contributes meaningfully to team discussions • Designs with an understanding of applicable codes, life safety standards, and best practices, ensuring compliance in all project deliverables • Identifies site conditions, raises concerns appropriately, and communicates solutions clearly to clients, project managers, and trade partners • Demonstrates excellent communication skills, creating clear and accurate drawings for trades coordination and client understanding • Leads interactive, technology-driven design sessions with clients, delivering persuasive and engaging live design experiences • Communicates candidly and objectively, setting realistic expectations with internal teams, sales partners, and clients while consistently meeting deadlines • Displays a high level of attention to detail, proactively raising potential concerns, asking clarifying questions, and seeking feedback for improvement • Seeks opportunities to grow personally and professionally, bringing ideas and areas of interest to leadership for development • Organizes and delivers effective digital presentations, showcasing design solutions with clarity and impact • Identifies opportunities within projects to expand scope and create additional value for the client and business • Demonstrate attentiveness and responsiveness in communication, maintaining appropriate turnaround times for deliverables Project Management Expectations • Actively participate in construction and site meetings, representing the design team and contributing to project coordination discussions • Collaborate with internal team members to conduct Pre-Install Readiness Meetings to ensure alignment across project stakeholders prior to installation • Break down large-scale project scopes into manageable work plans, establishing clear milestones, task, assignments, and timelines • Conduct final audit of all design work prior to order placement to ensure accuracy • Demonstrate the ability to manage multiple projects at varying stages simultaneously, maintaining focus, organization, and attention to detail across a dynamic workload Qualifications Deep knowledge of the design process, project lifecycle, and contract structures, with a proven ability to evolve operational models and tools that improve the customer experience • Ability to follow established design and project management processes while demonstrating confidence to suggest alternative solutions when appropriate • Excellent verbal and written communication skills — able to articulate design ideas clearly and engage confidently with clients, internal teams, and trade partners.

About Us "> Drawing on extensive research and expertise, we provide full-service solutions that support a better way of working. Our Approach We take a holistic approach to interior solutions, offering workplace strategy, design, integrated technology, commercial flooring, custom-tailored solutions, and furniture. At Custer, we value our employees and provide a work environment that allows them to grow and thrive.