Design Leader, Interiors

Who We Are

HMC Architects is an employee-owned design firm with an inherent desire to make a difference in our communities. As a purpose-driven brand based on values, our mission to design for good drives everything we do. And our ownership culture creates alignment and increased commitment to that mission, keeping us on track to being successful.

What We Do

Founded with the purpose of anticipating community needs, HMC aims to create designs that have a positive impact, now and into the future. We focus primarily on opportunities to have the most direct contribution to communities–through healthcare, education, and civic spaces.

Why Join HMC

As an employee owned company you become an owner after one year—receiving company-provided shares at no cost and building long-term financial growth as the firm succeeds. We also give back through our volunteerism with our Designing Futures Foundation, which advances sustainable and regenerative design and supports the next generation of innovators. In addition to this, we also support our team through:

• Culture: We put people over profits, giving them the flexibility to manage their work and life. We believe in fairness, equality in opportunity, and rewarding those who perform.
• Wellness: company paid wellness courses, on-site gyms (at select locations), access to financial advisors and discounts to wellness platforms, gyms and more.
• Professional Development: LinkedIn learning access, business development training, supportive mentorship, company-paid ARE study materials, exam fees, and licensure completion bonuses.
• Comprehensive Comp and Benefits: Base Bonus Equity 401k, including student loan repayments, wellness programs, full medical, dental, vision, time off and holidays above industry standard.

Job Summary

The Design Leader, Interiors supports small interior architecture projects through all phases, assisting with design problem-solving, producing interior documentation, and helping Senior Project Managers ensure adherence to work plans. This role collaborates with architects, consultants, and project teams and contributes to larger projects by supporting design intent and coordinated project delivery.

The position is located in our San Jose, California office. This position is eligible for hybrid (office/remote) working arrangement and flexible working hours; requires 3 days in the office and the ability to work from home Mondays and Fridays.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate with project teams and consultants to resolve design and documentation issues.
• Assist Senior Project Managers with preparing interior architectural drawings, specifications, finish schedules, and related documentation.
• Support work plan development, schedule tracking, and adherence to project budgets.
• Prepare furniture specifications, finish materials, binders, boards, and professional correspondence.
• Participate in design charrettes and help maintain design intent through all phases.
• Assist with proposals, interviews, and business development preparation.
• Prepare DD and CD deliverables, including plans, elevations, details, and agency-required documents.
• Review submittals, shop drawings, RFIs, and assist with instruction bulletins and change documentation.
• Support project management tasks, including small-project budgeting, staffing coordination, and billing.
• Demonstrate solid CAD skills, including drawing setup, editing, file management, and 3D modeling.
• Apply building codes related to accessibility, aisle widths, and fire-rating of materials.
• Select finish materials, furniture, and assist in developing interior details and specifications.
• Maintain professional communication and productive working relationships with team members, consultants, and clients.
• May help oversee or delegate tasks to 1–2 staff members.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Interior Design or Architecture degree from an accredited institution, or equivalent demonstrated proficiency.
• Minimum five years of experience producing and coordinating interior architectural documents across all phases.
• Strong communication, collaboration, and professional interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in CAD software, including advanced editing, drawing setup, and file management.
• Understanding of architectural terminology, interior design deliverables, and building code requirements.
• Ability to manage time effectively, meet budgeted hours, and take initiative in seeking new responsibilities.
• Familiarity with firm standards, protocols, and documentation processes.

The salary range for this position is $65,591 - $95,254.

The actual salary offered for this position will vary depending on multiple factors including the candidate’s qualification, education, position knowledge, work experience, skills, ability, work location, and internal incumbent compensation for similar roles. We do not anticipate individuals hired into this position will start at or near the top half of the range listed; the decision will be based on each individual case. The salary range listed above does not include other compensation elements such as discretionary bonus opportunities, employee stock ownership grants, paid time off, medical insurance, and other wage and benefit opportunities.

Salary : $65,591 - $95,254