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Associate Interior Designer Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Design Assistant

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Gabberts Interior Designer Career Path To be successful at Gabberts as a designer, these are the ... Associate or Bachelor's degree in design preferred. Experience: Three to five years of ...

Design Assistant

Bloomington, MN · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Job Type Full-time Description Gabberts Interior Designer Career Path To be successful at Gabberts ... Associate or Bachelor's degree in design preferred. Experience: Three to five years of ...

Design Assistant

Bloomington, MN · Hybrid

$16 - $18/hr

Description Gabberts Interior Designer Career Path To be successful at Gabberts as a designer ... Associate or Bachelor's degree in design preferred. Experience: Three to five years of ...

Senior Designer

Maple Grove, MN · On-site

$18 - $25.40/hr

Design education (BA or AA in Interior Design) * 6 years interior design experience in lieu of ... Paid vacation and sick time for eligible associates * Paid holidays plus a personal holiday * Paid ...

Design education (BA or AA in Interior Design) * 6 years interior design experience in lieu of ... Paid vacation and sick time for eligible associates * Paid holidays plus a personal holiday * Paid ...

Senior Designer

Maple Grove, MN · On-site

$18 - $25.40/hr

Design education (BA or AA in Interior Design) * 6 years interior design experience in lieu of ... Paid vacation and sick time for eligible associates * Paid holidays plus a personal holiday * Paid ...

Senior Designer

Maple Grove, MN · On-site

$18 - $25.40/hr

Design education (BA or AA in Interior Design) * 6 years interior design experience in lieu of ... Paid vacation and sick time for eligible associates * Paid holidays plus a personal holiday * Paid ...

Designer

Woodbury, MN · On-site

$17.40 - $23.40/hr

Minimum of One (1) year of interior design experience or prior retail/sales experience * Degree in ... Paid vacation and sick time for eligible associates * Paid holidays plus a personal holiday * Paid ...

Designer

Apple Valley, MN · On-site

$17.40 - $23.40/hr

Minimum of One (1) year of interior design experience or prior retail/sales experience * Degree in ... Paid vacation and sick time for eligible associates * Paid holidays plus a personal holiday * Paid ...

Designer

Apple Valley, MN

$17.40 - $23.40/hr

Minimum of One (1) year of interior design experience or prior retail/sales experience * Degree in ... Paid vacation and sick time for eligible associates * Paid holidays plus a personal holiday * Paid ...

Designer

Woodbury, MN

$17.40 - $23.40/hr

Minimum of One (1) year of interior design experience or prior retail/sales experience * Degree in ... Paid vacation and sick time for eligible associates * Paid holidays plus a personal holiday * Paid ...

Designer

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$17.40 - $23.40/hr

Minimum of One (1) year of interior design experience or prior retail/sales experience * Degree in ... Paid vacation and sick time for eligible associates * Paid holidays plus a personal holiday * Paid ...

Designer

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$17.40 - $23.40/hr

Minimum of One (1) year of interior design experience or prior retail/sales experience * Degree in ... Paid vacation and sick time for eligible associates * Paid holidays plus a personal holiday * Paid ...

We believe our associates are our greatest brand ambassadors, and we value talent, entrepreneurial ... The designs include space planning, fabric coordination, product selection and overall project ...

We believe our associates are our greatest brand ambassadors, and we value talent, entrepreneurial ... The designs include space planning, fabric coordination, product selection and overall project ...

We believe our associates are our greatest brand ambassadors, and we value talent, entrepreneurial ... The designs include space planning, fabric coordination, product selection and overall project ...

We believe our associates are our greatest brand ambassadors, and we value talent, entrepreneurial ... The designs include space planning, fabric coordination, product selection and overall project ...

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Showing results 1-20

Associate Interior Designer information

See Minnesota salary details

$19.1K

$57.4K

$85.7K

How much do associate interior designer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate interior designer in Minnesota is $57,355.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,500.00 and $66,600.00 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's degree in interior design?

An associate's degree in interior design prepares individuals for entry-level roles such as interior design assistant, design technician, or showroom associate. These positions involve supporting project development, client communication, and using design software like AutoCAD or SketchUp. Advancement may require additional experience or certifications, and understanding building codes and space planning is beneficial.

What is the 3-5-7 rule in interior design?

The 3-5-7 rule in interior design is a guideline for creating balanced and harmonious spaces by grouping objects or furniture in odd numbers—typically three, five, or seven—since odd groupings are more visually appealing. Interior designers often use this rule to arrange decor, artwork, or furniture to achieve a pleasing aesthetic and improve spatial flow.

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 developing interior spaces by creating layouts, selecting materials, and preparing design presentations. They often use design software like AutoCAD or SketchUp and may coordinate with clients and vendors to ensure project specifications are met.

What is the 70/30 rule in interior design?

The 70/30 rule in interior design suggests that 70% of a space should be composed of neutral or subdued colors and elements, while 30% can feature bold accents or decorative items. For associate interior designers, understanding this balance helps create visually appealing and harmonious environments, often guiding choices in color schemes, furniture, and accessories.
What are the most commonly searched types of Interior Designer jobs in Minnesota? The most popular types of Interior Designer jobs in Minnesota are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Interior Designer jobs in Minnesota? For Associate Interior Designer jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Interior Designer jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Interior Designer jobs in Minnesota are:
What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Associate Interior Designer jobs? Cities in Minnesota with the most Associate Interior Designer job openings:
Design Assistant

Design Assistant

HOM Furniture, Inc.

Minneapolis, MN • On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


HOM Furniture rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 58 rated furniture retailers


Job description

Description:

Gabberts Interior Designer Career Path

To be successful at Gabberts as a designer, these are the key things you’ll need:


  • Strong product knowledge – We work with a wide range of vendors and custom options. You'll need to know what’s possible so you can confidently guide clients.
  • The ability to engage and sell – Building trust with clients, understanding their needs, and helping them through the design and buying process is essential.
  • Resilience – Interior design is deeply personal. You’re helping clients make decisions about their home, which can be emotional. Staying grounded and professional is a must.
  • Motivation - Self motivation is key to success!

The Path to Success


Step 1: Design Assistant (First 6 Months)

Schedule: Includes one evening and one weekend day.


Pay: $16-$18/hr


You’ll start by supporting multiple Interior Designers. This gives you exposure to different styles, approaches, and processes. This is also where you get familiar with our vendors, systems, and how we work. This is a hands-on learning phase.


What you’ll focus on:


  • Floor planning
  • Creating pricing and proposals
  • Learning basic AS400 functions (inventory, sales entry, scheduling)
  • Vendor and product education
  • Supporting designers and helping the team

Step 2: Hybrid Role – Design Assistant + Sales (6–12 Months)

Schedule: Continue as a Design Assistant part-time, with 2 days a week on the sales floor


Pay: $18 + 1% commission on your personal sales


Once you’re more comfortable, we’ll transition you into a shared role. You’ll still support other designers, but now you’ll start working directly with clients too. This gives you the chance to begin building your own clientele, with support still in place. The goal will be to achieve $250K in sales and that can be achieved by focusing on the following skills and behaviors:



  • Engaging with clients on the floor
  • Understanding their needs and offering solutions
  • Building confidence in sales skills and closing business
  • Managing follow-up and starting to develop a client base


As your confidence and business grow, we can increase your time on the floor.


Step 3: Interior Designer (After 1 Year)

Schedule: Full-time designer schedule


Pay: 100% commission


Sales Goal: $600K in written sales in year one as a full-time designer


  • At this point, you’ll be running your own business within Gabberts. You’ll take projects from start to finish, building relationships and managing every step of the process. The goal is steady growth year over year as your client base expands.
  • Why This Plan Works
  • Gives you time to learn the business before taking on full sales pressure
  • Provides a clear timeline and milestones
  • Supports you as you build confidence and a client base
  • Offers opportunities to learn from experienced designers
  • Sets realistic (but meaningful) sales goals
  • We can accelerate the plan as key metrics are met.


Benefits

  • HOM Furniture offers its full-time employees a competitive benefits package.
  • Paid Time Off
  • Medical and/or Dental Coverage
  • 401(k) Employee Contribution Plan
  • 401(k) Employer Matching
  • Employee discount
  • Career advancement opportunities and training
  • Pay on Demand - options for receiving earned wages
Requirements:

Education: Associate or Bachelor’s degree in design preferred.


Experience: Three to five years of administrative experience preferred.


Physical Demands: Low physical demands required. The employee is regularly required to sit for sustained periods of time and occasionally lift up to 25 pounds.


Other: Must be able to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing. Drafting and proofreading skills are a plus.


*Reasonable accommodation will be made for those who require it.


HOM Furniture is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. Individuals seeking employment at HOM Furniture are considered without regard to race, color, religion, gender expression or identity, sexual orientation, national origin, marital status, age, creed, public assistance status, disability, membership or activity in a local commission, or any other characteristic or classification protected by federal, state or local law.


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