Jeni’s Design Diary

What are the typical desired qualifications in an entry-level employee?

(Job Titles: Interior Designer I | Entry Level Interior Designer | Level I Interior Designer)

According to Salary.com, qualifications for an Interior Designer I position consists are:

• Assisting in development and preparation of presentation drawings
• Knowledge of design principles and the ability to interpret design concepts and layouts
• A bachelor’s degree in area of specialty and 0-2 years of experience in the field or in a related area
• Knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures within a particular field
• Relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job
• Works under immediate supervision
• Typically reports to a supervisor or manager

Here are some specific examples from job posts:

• Interact with clients to determine the interior requirements
• Review project cost sheets to determine project scope and parameters
• Prepare specifications, including preliminary plans, for interior finishes
• Research products as required verifying product price and availability
• Communicate design concept to clients through finish board, plans, elevation, perspective drawings and renderings
• Select products and finishes within the guidelines of the established budget to maintain profit margins
• Maintain daily schedule and task list
• Communicate effectively with furniture suppliers to meet client needs
• Develop preliminary retail merchandising plans and coordinate finalized plans with graphic services and fixture provider