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Associate Interior Designer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Our associates travel literally across the globe, exploring the latest styles and innovations ... Work in our Showroom with Interior Designers, Home Owners, and Trade Professionals. * Provide ...

Our associates travel literally across the globe, exploring the latest styles and innovations ... Work in our Showroom with Interior Designers, Home Owners, and Trade Professionals. * Provide ...

Senior Designer

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$96K - $102K/yr

The Senior Designer position is responsible for generating advanced creative designs and channeling ... Associates or Bachelors degree in Interior Design or related field. AAP/EEO Statement CKF provides ...

Senior Designer

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$96K - $102K/yr

The Senior Designer position is responsible for generating advanced creative designs and channeling ... Associates or Bachelors degree in Interior Design or related field. AAP/EEO Statement CKF provides ...

Showroom Cabinet Designer

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$20 - $24.50/hr

The Showroom Cabinet Designer is responsible for guiding homeowners, contractors, and designers ... Associates or Bachelor's degree in Interior Design, Architecture, Construction Management or ...

... interior design firm, supporting clients throughout the nation. ISG is looking to add a Water ... Associate Degree in Drafting and Design preferred; equivalent recent work experience may be ...

... associates for their assigned account(s). Responsibilities: Lead and mentor a team of design ... Support Project Designers in quality review of design deliverables. Ensures that all new processes ...

... associates for their assigned account(s). Responsibilities: Lead and mentor a team of design ... Support Project Designers in quality review of design deliverables. Ensures that all new processes ...

... associates for their assigned account(s). Responsibilities: Lead and mentor a team of design ... Support Project Designers in quality review of design deliverables. Ensures that all new processes ...

... associates for their assigned account(s). Responsibilities: Lead and mentor a team of design ... Support Project Designers in quality review of design deliverables. Ensures that all new processes ...

Associates or Bachelor's degree in Interior Design, Architecture, Construction Management or ... Experience working with contractors, designers, and homeowners in a fast-paced, detail-oriented ...

Associate Interior Designer information

See Iowa salary details

$18.3K

$55K

$82.2K

How much do associate interior designer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate interior designer in Iowa is $55,004.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,600.00 and $63,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate interior designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Interior Designer, you need a solid understanding of design principles, spatial planning, and proficiency in drafting, usually supported by a degree in interior design or a related field. Familiarity with design software such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite, as well as knowledge of building codes and industry certifications, is typically required. Strong communication, creativity, attention to detail, and teamwork skills help you effectively collaborate with clients and project teams. These skills ensure the creation of functional, aesthetically pleasing spaces that meet client needs and comply with industry standards.

What is the difference between Associate Interior Designer vs Interior Designer?

AspectAssociate Interior DesignerInterior Designer
CredentialsAssociate degree or similar certification, some states require licensingBachelor’s degree in interior design or related field, licensing often required
Work EnvironmentAssist senior designers, work on project details, collaborate with clients and vendorsLead design projects, client consultations, project management
Employer & Industry UsageInterior design firms, architecture firms, retail, hospitalityDesign firms, architecture firms, independent consultants

The main difference between an Associate Interior Designer and an Interior Designer lies in experience, responsibilities, and credentials. Associate Interior Designers typically support senior staff and focus on project details, while Interior Designers lead projects and have more advanced qualifications. Both roles are essential in the interior design industry, with the Associate role often serving as a stepping stone to becoming a licensed Interior Designer.

What can I do with an associate interior designer degree?

An associate interior designer degree prepares individuals for entry-level roles in interior design, such as design assistant or junior designer. Graduates can work on space planning, material selection, and client presentations, often using design software like AutoCAD or SketchUp. The degree can also serve as a foundation for further certification or education in interior design.

How does an associate interior designer typically collaborate with senior designers and clients during a project?

As an Associate Interior Designer, you will work closely with senior designers to help translate client needs into creative design solutions. This often involves participating in client meetings, drafting design proposals, preparing mood boards, and assisting with sourcing materials. You may also coordinate with vendors and contractors to ensure project milestones are met and design visions are accurately executed. Regular communication and teamwork are essential, as you’ll frequently exchange feedback with both internal team members and clients to refine concepts throughout the project lifecycle.

What does an associate interior designer do?

An Associate Interior Designer assists senior designers in creating functional and aesthetically pleasing interior spaces. Their responsibilities often include preparing design presentations, selecting materials and finishes, producing drawings using software like AutoCAD or SketchUp, and coordinating with vendors and contractors. They may also help manage project timelines and budgets, ensuring that design concepts are executed according to client needs. This role is often entry-level to mid-level, providing valuable experience and mentorship in the field of interior design.
What are the most commonly searched types of Interior Designer jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Interior Designer jobs in Iowa are:
Infographic showing various Associate Interior Designer job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,004 per year, or $26.4 per hour.

Entry-Level Interior Designer /// Des Moines Studio

Slingshot Architecture

Des Moines, IA

$50K - $55K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Join the Slingers! Slingshot is seeking an emerging professional Interior Designer I (Interior Design Associate or Interior Designer 1) to join our passionate, purpose-driven studio in Des Moines. We're a small but mighty team of interior designers and architects dedicated to crafting meaningful, human-centered commercial spaces that elevate everyday life and strengthen Midwestern communities. Our work spans architecture, interiors, and urbanism — always with a focus on clarity, precision, and real impact.

As a teaching studio, we value team members who take ownership of their work, grow alongside talented colleagues, and contribute to collaborative excellence. In this role, you'll provide interior design assistance on projects under the direction of mid-to senior-level designers and architects, helping bring concepts to life through thoughtful development, documentation, and team support — with opportunities to build your skills and impact from concept through construction documentation.

What You'll Do

  • Work under the direction of mid-to senior-level interior designers and architects by providing design assistance with interior development.
  • Assist with graphic interior story development, including pulling imagery, generating mood boards, sketches, and drawings for concept development.
  • Document floor plans, ceiling plans, elevations, finish plans, and schedules for construction documentation.
  • Learn the SSA design process and project software, including ArchiCAD and SketchUp.
  • Assist the design team with maintaining the BIM library.
  • Support business development activities with finish boards, presentations, pulling together social media content, meeting note preparation, and more.
  • Assist in ordering samples for projects.
  • Attend client meetings and design critiques.
  • Maintain the interior design library and meet with manufacturer’s representatives to keep knowledge current.

Who We're Looking For: The ideal "Slinger" holds a Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Interior Design (minimum four-year degree) and is on the path to licensure with up to three years of industry experience. You thrive when you:

  • Are a self-starter who shares our drive for creating meaningful work in a collaborative environment and desires to be part of an enthusiastic and passionate team.
  • Excel in a fast-paced, small-team setting committed to exceeding expectations daily.
  • Demonstrate a strong design instinct, generous work approach, and clarity in communication.
  • Possess working knowledge of the application of color, materials, and aesthetic form.
  • Have exposure to design specifications and industry standards, including FF&E.
  • Are familiar with space planning methodology.
  • Bring basic sketching and rendering skills.
  • Have working knowledge of construction documentation and procedures.
  • Possess intermediate MS Office Suite skills and experience in Adobe Creative Suite.
  • Have strong verbal and written communication skills.

What We Offer

  • Average 40 hrs work week
  • Flexible Schedule with 9a-3p core hours
  • Health Insurance
  • Dental & Vision Insurance
  • Life Insurance, STD & LTD covered 100% for employee
  • Maternity Leave
  • 401k plan with Company Match
  • Monthly Gym Benefit
  • Volunteer Time Off
  • Professional Development Stipend
  • Leadership Involved In Day-to-Day
  • A Teaching Studio & Collaborative Environment
  • Relaxed Dress Code
  • Dog-Friendly Office
  • Beverages & Snacks
  • Quarterly Team Events
  • Annual Team Celebration

This position is available in our Des Moines studio

*TO BE CONSIDERED, MUST SUBMIT A CURRENT PORTFOLIO*
If you're excited to bring your emerging design talent and passion for interiors to vibrant, community-focused projects in a studio that values personal growth, bold ideas, collaboration, and meaningful impact — we want to meet you!