ASSISTANT DESIGNER
Network Next Gen · Chicago, Illinois ·
Posted 4 days ago
Full-Time
About this role
TITLE: ASSISTANT DESIGNER, INTERIORS
REPORTS TO: DIRECTOR OF INTERIORS, ANNIKA BARTZ
COMPENSATION: $50,000 - $60,000
CLASSIFICATION: FULL-TIME, SALARY, EXEMPT
About
KARA MANN creates environments that elevate how people live. We bring life back to spaces - infusing warmth, character, and soul into every project. Our work honors what came before while designing for how people live today, creating a dialogue between past and present.
We practice lived-in elegance with a spirit of no-fuss. beautiful things, strategically edited for maximum impact. Design is personal - we invest in understanding each client story, not to impose our signature but to create spaces that feel authentically theirs. We partner with master artisans, curate with discipline, and design homes meant to be inherited: refined without being precious, timeless without being stuffy.
Purpose
Support the design and delivery of high-end residential projects by contributing to all phases of design, from concept through installation. This role provides an opportunity to learn from experienced architects and designers while developing technical skills, design sensibility, and professional expertise in a luxury design environment.
Key Responsibilities
Design Development & Documentation
Maintain furniture, fixtures & equipment (FFE) plans, elevations, and custom FFE design documentationContribute to all phases of design: concept, SD, DD, CD, CA, and installationAssist in producing accurate and complete FFE documentation sets under senior guidanceLearn and apply firm standards for documentation, drafting, and presentation
Presentation & Communication
Create Photoshop renderings of plans and elevations for client presentations and internal meetingsAccurately organize and annotate presentations under senior advisementCommunicate clearly and professionally with general contractors, architects of record, clients, and vendorsParticipate in client meetings and presentations to develop professional communication skills
Material & Product Management
Source and organize materials; maintain material libraries and documentation of product details and pricingConduct product and materiality research for residential and commercial projectsAssist with logistics, expediting, and tracking of FFE orders and specifications with senior guidanceDevelop knowledge of vendors, resources, and industry standards
Construction Administration
Support site supervision and ensure design intent is maintained throughout constructionAssist in coordinating with contractors and vendorsLearn construction administration processes through hands-on project involvement
Learning & Collaboration
Actively seek mentorship and guidance from experienced team members to accelerate professional growthContribute to a collaborative, professional, and design-driven studio environmentDemonstrate eagerness to learn and take on increasing responsibility as skills developSupport team efforts and maintain a positive, solutions-oriented attitude
Qualifications
Professional Background
0–3 years of experience in a comparably sized high-end residential interior design/architecture firmExperience completing or punching a residential or commercial project, or participation in all main phases of designDemonstrated interest in luxury residential design and commitment to craft
Education
Bachelor's degree in interior design or architecture from an accredited university
Design Expertise
Strong, distinctive design talent with eagerness to develop sophisticated project execution skillsFoundational knowledge of professional interior design practice, all phases of design, FFE documentation, and architectural document reviewCreative problem-solving abilities and attention to design detail
Skills
Technical Proficiency
Required: AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Photoshop), SketchUp, Microsoft Office SuitePreferred: Rhino, V-Ray, Studio Designer, OutlookAbility to produce detailed and legible drawing sets with increasing independence
Professional Competencies
Strong time-management and organizational skills; able to set and meet priorities effectivelyMeticulous attention to accuracy and completeness in all workEffective written and verbal communication skillsEagerness to learn and accept constructive feedback
Work Ethic & Collaboration
Collaborative, professional, and adaptable team playerProactive and resourceful approach to problem-solvingCommitment to maintaining high design standards and project excellencePositive attitude and genuine enthusiasm for the work
Perks & Benefits
Comprehensive health, vision, and dental insurance401(k) with up to 3% salary match from kara mann designGenerous PTO package to ensure a balanced life outside of workCompetitive parental leave benefits for new parents and caregiversCareer pathways: offering extensive growth opportunities for team membersWork-life balance: we respect your time and personal commitments
KARA MANN is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or veteran status. We encourage individuals of all backgrounds and experiences to apply, and we are dedicated to fostering a workplace that reflects the diversity of our community.
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