Director of Design

At Within Design, we bring vision to life — beautifully, strategically, and with purpose. We’re not just designing spaces; we’re shaping experiences. As we grow, we’re searching for a Director of Design to lead our design, technical, and art/accessories teams with a blend of creativity, operational savvy, and people-first leadership. This role is perfect for someone who can toggle between creative vision and process execution — who sees both the pixels and the big picture. What You’ll Be Doing As Director of Design, you’ll be the creative anchor and operational compass for our design department. Here’s what your world will look like: Design Leadership • Support and refine our creative visioning process across all projects • Lead and enforce design standards, policies, and procedures • Oversee all deliverables: presentations, specs, design books, art/accessories, and installs • Manage FF&E budgets, labor forecasts, and workflow prioritization • Drive design innovation while balancing client needs and project goals Team Development & Operations • Mentor designers and project managers through regular check-ins and coaching • Facilitate growth, accountability, and role clarity using clear expectations • Lead training efforts on design systems, processes, and brand standards • Collaborate with VP of Operations and cross-functional teams to hit milestones Project Oversight & Quality Control • Attend installations (in and out of town); ensure smooth execution • Implement post-install processes (photos, inventory, closeout, archiving) • Ensure exceptional quality control on all deliverables and presentations Who You Are • A design leader with 6+ years in interior design, including project management • Experienced managing teams, budgets, and client relationships • Proficient in design and operational tools: Microsoft Office, Photoshop, AutoCAD (or similar) • Adept at balancing creative direction with technical execution • Strong communicator and negotiator with an eye for detail and a heart for mentorship • Bonus points for construction knowledge or a background in hospitality/multi-family projects What We Offer • A collaborative, fast-paced, and high-integrity environment • The chance to shape and evolve a growing design practice • Opportunities to lead cross-disciplinary teams and mentor emerging talent • A voice in company-wide strategy and creative direction Job Type: Full-time Pay: $90,000.00 per year Benefits: • 401(k) matching • Dental insurance • Employee assistance program • Health insurance • Life insurance • Paid time off • Vision insurance Compensation Package: • Bonus opportunities Schedule: • Monday to Friday • Overtime Application Question(s): • Do you have 6+ years of experience in design, including project and team leadership? • Are you confident managing FF&E budgets and leading project installations? • Have you successfully mentored designers or project managers in past roles? • Are you comfortable working cross-functionally with operations, purchasing, and executive leadership? • Do you thrive in a fast-paced, high-accountability, purpose-driven environment? Ability to Relocate: • San Diego, CA 92127: Relocate before starting work (Required) Work Location: In person