Interior Designer – Entry Level

Launch Your Design Career with Purpose – Join Design Alternatives as an Entry-Level Interior Designer!

Job Title: Interior Designer – Entry Level

Company Name: Design Alternatives

Salary: $41,600–$69,888 per year Performance-Based Bonus (8% target, up to 12% maximum – total compensation potential up to $69,888)

Industry: Commercial Furniture & Construction

Location: Lavallette, NJ

Job Overview

Design Alternatives is seeking a motivated and detail-driven Entry-Level Interior Designer to join our growing team. This role is ideal for an emerging design professional who is eager to gain hands-on experience in commercial interior renovations while working alongside experienced designers, project managers, and field teams.

As an Interior Designer at Design Alternatives, you will support the development of design concepts, construction documents, finish selections, and client presentations. You will play an integral role in bringing functional, high-quality interior environments to life across residential communities, senior living facilities, and hospitality spaces throughout New Jersey. This is an excellent opportunity to grow your design career within a structured, mentorship-driven design-build firm.

Who We Are

Design Alternatives is a premier design-build firm specializing in interior renovations for commercial spaces, including residential communities, senior care facilities, and hospitality venues. For over 35 years, we’ve delivered more than 5 million square feet of transformation across 400 projects, earning a 75% repeat customer rate.

Our turnkey approach integrates design, construction, and procurement—streamlining the process and delivering exceptional spaces with lasting value. We are known for our collaborative culture, attention to detail, and commitment to professional growth. At Design Alternatives, your development is intentional, your ideas are valued, and your work has measurable impact.

Learn more at www.designalternatives.com

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in developing interior design concepts, mood boards, and finish palettes.
• Prepare construction drawings, specifications, and presentation materials.
• Support space planning and furniture layout development.
• Coordinate material selections, samples, and vendor communications.
• Participate in client meetings and presentations alongside senior designers.
• Conduct site visits to verify field conditions and ensure design intent is maintained.
• Collaborate with project managers and superintendents to align design with construction execution.
• Maintain organized digital files, schedules, and documentation.
• Research products, materials, and design trends relevant to commercial interiors.
• Contribute to maintaining Design Alternatives’ standards and design processes.
  
  

Qualifications

• Required:
• Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design or related field.
• 0–3 years of professional interior design experience (internships welcome).
• Proficiency in design and documentation software (AutoCAD required; Revit preferred).
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite and digital collaboration tools.
• Strong understanding of space planning and finish coordination.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks in a deadline-driven environment.
• Strong communication and presentation skills.
• Preferred:
• Experience in commercial, multi-family, senior living, or hospitality interiors.
• Exposure to construction documentation and specifications writing.
• Interest in pursuing NCIDQ certification or professional licensure.
• Familiarity with construction software platforms or procurement systems.
  
  

Compensation & Benefits

• Base Salary: $41,600–$69,888 annually
• Performance-Based Bonus: 8% target, up to 12% maximum (total compensation potential up to $69,888)
• Paid Time Off:
• Vacation starting at 12 days
• 10 Paid Holidays
• Paid Sick Time
• Professional Development:
• $500 annual stipend
• License and professional membership coverage
• 401(k) with 3% Company Contribution
• Health Insurance: 75% employer-paid premium on Premium Plan
• Extended Family & Medical Leave Program
• Dynamic work model with in-office collaboration and remote flexibility
  
  

Schedule

• Full-Time
• Monday–Friday
• Standard 40-hour workweek
  
  

Work Location

• Hybrid role based in New Jersey
• Combination of in-office collaboration and remote flexibility
• Occasional travel to project sites within Monmouth, Middlesex, Union, and Essex counties
  
  

Equal Employment Opportunity

We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other