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Contract Interior Design Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Interior Designer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

... design process. * Execute contract documents, including but not limited to floor plans and details ... Bachelor's Degree in Interior Design and/or Architecture from an accredited design school

... design process. * Execute contract documents, including but not limited to floor plans and details ... Bachelor's Degree in Interior Design and/or Architecture from an accredited design school

Interior Designer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$103K - $115K/yr

Preliminary design studies * Contract documents * Field observations and measurements * Life safety requirements * Furniture and interior product specifications * Furniture bid packages

... design process. * Execute contract documents, including but not limited to floor plans and details ... Bachelor's Degree in Interior Design and/or Architecture from an accredited design school

Interior Designer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$100 - $120/hr

... design process. * Execute contract documents, including but not limited to floor plans and details ... Bachelor's Degree in Interior Design and/or Architecture from an accredited design school

New

Interior Designer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$103K - $115K/yr

Preliminary design studies * Contract documents * Field observations and measurements * Life safety requirements * Furniture and interior product specifications * Furniture bid packages

... interior design projects from initial concept to construction. You will lead internal and external ... Ability to coordinate a complete set of contract documents Established in 1972, Ware Malcomb is a ...

Interior Designer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$103.50 - $115/hr

Preliminary design studies * Contract documents * Field observations and measurements * Life safety requirements * Furniture and interior product specifications * Furniture bid packages

Showing results 41-60

Contract Interior Design information

What is contract interior design?

Contract interior design refers to the planning and design of interior spaces for commercial environments, such as offices, hotels, restaurants, hospitals, and retail stores. Unlike residential design, contract interior design focuses on creating functional, safe, and aesthetically pleasing public spaces that meet the needs of businesses and organizations. This field often involves working with architects, contractors, and business owners to ensure that spaces comply with building codes, accessibility standards, and branding requirements. The goal is to enhance the environment for users while supporting the client’s operational objectives.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract interior designer?

To excel as a Contract Interior Designer, you typically need a degree in interior design or a related field, a keen eye for spatial aesthetics, and strong project management skills. Proficiency in CAD software, 3D rendering tools, and knowledge of building codes and ADA regulations are commonly required, with certifications like NCIDQ being highly valued. Outstanding communication, creativity, and client relationship management set top professionals apart. These skills ensure that projects are functional, compliant, visually appealing, and delivered on time to meet client needs.

What are some common challenges faced by contract interior designers when working with commercial clients?

Contract interior designers often face challenges such as balancing client expectations with budget constraints, adhering to strict project timelines, and ensuring compliance with building codes and safety regulations. Additionally, they must coordinate with various stakeholders, including architects, contractors, and suppliers, which requires strong communication and project management skills. Successfully navigating these challenges is key to delivering functional, aesthetically pleasing spaces that meet the unique needs of each commercial client.

What is the difference between Contract Interior Design vs Residential Interior Design?

AspectContract Interior DesignResidential Interior Design
CredentialsTypically requires a professional interior design certification or licenseOften requires a certification, but licensing varies by region
Work EnvironmentCommercial projects, offices, retail spaces, hospitality venuesPrivate homes, apartments, residential spaces
Employer & Industry UsageDesign firms, contractors, commercial clientsIndividual clients, residential design firms
Project ScopeLarge-scale, functional, and compliance-focusedPersonalized, aesthetic-focused, and comfort-oriented

Contract Interior Design involves working on commercial projects like offices and retail spaces, often requiring specific certifications and a focus on functionality and compliance. Residential Interior Design centers on private homes, emphasizing aesthetics and personal preferences. While both roles require interior design skills, their work environments and project types differ significantly.

What are the most commonly searched types of Interior Design jobs in California?

The most popular types of Interior Design jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Contract Interior Design jobs?

Cities in California with the most Contract Interior Design job openings:

Infographic showing various Contract Interior Design job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution.

Interior Designer

DGA

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

At DGA, we believe that incredible design starts with incredible people. We are a purpose-driven, people-focused firm where collaboration, creativity, and mutual respect define everything we do. If you ask our team what makes DGA special, the answer is always the same: our supportive, engaged, and passionate community.


We are looking for a talented, forward-thinking Interior Designer to join our San Francisco office. In this role, you will work on sophisticated commercial and corporate projects while shaping spaces from initial concept through final occupancy. If you are an experienced designer with a keen eye for detail and a desire to mentor and grow within a collaborative team, we want to hear from you.


In this role, you will:

  • Exhibit advanced understanding and independent development of interior design concepts and integration of the architectural design process.
  • Execute contract documents, including but not limited to floor plans and details, reflected ceiling plans, mill work design, furniture layouts, finish plans, and schedules. 
  • Exercise critical judgement in creating materials and models for client presentations.
  • Develop graphic communication skills to illustrate design concepts.
  • Influence and manipulate design elements such as spatial layout, color, light, texture, and scale.
  • Research manufacturers and selects colors, finishes, materials, lighting, and furniture for interior application, ensuring sustainability goals of the firm are maintained.
  • Provide programming and space planning analysis as well as area calculations.
  • Implement a creative approach to complete tasks and responsibilities on projects, within the scope of schedule and budget, in an organized, timely, and consistent way. 
  • Review work for accuracy, omissions, legibility, and for document compliance 
  • Take increasing ownership on tasks within project teams and studio activities.
  • Participates in design reviews, charettes, and pin-ups.  
  • Coordinates effectively and participates in meetings with clients, partners, and consultants


You'll bring to DGA: 

  • 8+ years of commercial interior design experience in preparing comprehensive design packages including architectural detailing and thorough knowledge of construction documentation
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Interior Design and/or Architecture from an accredited design school
  • Advanced knowledge of all interior design phases of corporate projects of varying sizes and complexities from conception through construction (initial programming through construction to final occupancy)
  • Participate in the construction administration of projects and review of submittals and finish samples
  • Space planning, concept development, finish selection, specification
  • Conceptual sketching ability desired; experience with Photoshop, SketchUp, or Illustrator as design communication tool highly desirable
  • Possess excellent presentation skills and have the ability to manage multiple projects
  • Working knowledge and application of building codes
  • CCIDC / NCIDQ Certification a plus
  • Must be proficient in Autodesk Building Design Suite/Revit


At DGA, people come first. We are a purpose-driven, people-focused firm where collaboration, creativity, and respect define our culture. When asked what makes DGA a great place to work, the top answer is always the same—the people. Our teams are supportive, engaged, and committed to delivering meaningful work that improves lives through design.

At DGA, you can expect great pay, excellent benefits including medical, dental, vision, disability, 401k, PTO, and an annual staff development allowance. We also have a very generous bonus program. At the time of posting this job advertisement, the annual pay salary range for this position is between $100,000 to $120,000 commensurate with qualifications

 

No solicitors or recruiters, please. Applicants for this position must have unrestricted right to work in the United States.