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Contract Interior Design Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Lead the development of interior design concepts under the supervision of a senior designer ... a Contract to Hire position based out of Darien, IL. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this ...

Interior Designer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$36.05 - $43.27/hr

An established Architecture and Interior Design firm, located in the heart of Chicago, is looking ... Contract to Hire position based out of Chicago, IL. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this ...

Interior Designer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$36.05 - $43.27/hr

An established Architecture and Interior Design firm, located in the heart of Chicago, is looking ... Contract to Hire position based out of Chicago, IL. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this ...

Interior Designer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$43.37 - $52.88/hr

An award-winning architecture and design firm located in the West Loop is looking to add a Sr. ... Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Chicago, IL. Pay and Benefits ...

Preliminary design studies * Contract documents * Field observations and measurements * Life safety ... Furniture and interior product specifications * Construction contract administration Software

Preliminary design studies * Contract documents * Field observations and measurements * Life safety ... Furniture and interior product specifications * Construction contract administration Software

Interior Designer Lead interior architectural design across all project phases, including ... Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Darien, IL. Pay and Benefits ...

Interior Designer Lead interior architectural design across all project phases, including ... Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Darien, IL. Pay and Benefits ...

You will develop design iterations and options, communicate ideas through various mediums, and ... Contract to Hire position based out of Chicago, IL. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this ...

Interior Designer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$36.06 - $40.86/hr

You will develop design iterations and options, communicate ideas through various mediums, and ... Contract to Hire position based out of Chicago, IL. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this ...

... fees on contracts * May participate in marketing interviews Qualifications * Accredited professional degree in Interior Design, Architecture, related field or equivalent experience * NCIDQ ...

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Contract Interior Design information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$14

$26

$41

How much do contract interior design jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract interior design in Chicago, IL is $26.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.58 and $29.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Interior Design jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Contract Interior Design jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Contract Interior Design job openings:

Infographic showing various Contract Interior Design job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 81% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,286 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Interior Design Professional

Darien, IL • Hybrid

Actalent
Business Management Consulting • 5 - 10K employees

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

An integrated Design, Engineering, and Construction firm located in the suburbs of Chicago is looking to add an Interior Design Professional to their team!

Responsibilities

  • Lead the development of interior design concepts under the supervision of a senior designer, including program assessment, space planning, furniture layouts, material selections, and color schemes
  • Create detailed design documentation and presentations that clearly communicate design intent
  • Participate in client meetings to understand project needs, goals, and vision, and assist in developing design solutions that align with project objectives and user requirements.
  • Oversee key aspects of the interior design process, including managing project timelines, budgets, and deliverables to ensure projects remain on schedule and within scope
  • Source and select appropriate materials, furnishings, and finishes that support the design concept, budget constraints, and performance requirements
  • Manage relationships with vendors and suppliers, including obtaining samples, reviewing product options, and ensuring timely delivery and quality control of furnishings and finishes
  • Support and oversee the furniture procurement process, including the development of furniture specifications packages and coordination with vendors for ordering and installation
  • Conduct site visits to assess existing conditions, monitor design implementation, verify that construction aligns with design documents, and address any issues or discrepancies during construction
  • Manage multiple projects concurrently, balancing design development, documentation, client communication, and coordination responsibilities

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Interior Design, Architecture, or a related field from an accredited institution
  • 3+ years of professional experience in interior design, including managing and delivering projects that involve furniture design and procurement
  • Proficiency in design software such as AutoCAD and Revit for developing plans, details, and construction documentation
  • Experience with construction documents and an understanding of how interior design is translated into buildable drawings and specifications
  • Strong skills in interior design and interior architecture, including schematic design, space planning, and furniture layout development
  • Proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite for design presentations, graphics, and visual communication
  • Experience with 3D modeling and rendering tools, with the ability to visualize and communicate three-dimensional design concepts
  • Experience working on K–12 and higher education projects (including classrooms, campus facilities) or on sporting facilities (such as college baseball stadiums and turf football fields, particularly in the context of interior and support spaces) is preferred
Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Darien, IL.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $72000.00 - $83000.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a hybrid position in Darien,IL.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Sep 3, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications withoutregard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability,sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protectedby law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification oradjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability,please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in thecity and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicantswith arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as acondition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this lawshall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process,including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applicationsand qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, youacknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.


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About Actalent

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Actalent connects passion with purpose. Our scalable talent solutions and services capabilities drive value and results and provide the expertise to help our customers achieve more. Every day, our experts around the globe are making an impact. We're supporting critical initiatives in engineering and sciences that advance how companies serve the world. Actalent promotes consultant care and engagement through experiences that enable continuous development. Our people are the difference. Actalent is an operating company of Allegis Group, the global leader in talent solutions.

Industry

Business management consulting

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hanover, MD, US

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