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Contract Interior Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Director of Interior Design

Dallas, TX · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

Overseeing the management of interior design projects including budgets, invoicing and deadlines ... Negotiating and administering contracts * Developing new business opportunities * Supervising and ...

Director of Interior Design

Lexington, SC · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

Overseeing the management of interior design projects including budgets, invoicing and deadlines ... Negotiating and administering contracts * Developing new business opportunities * Supervising and ...

Be Seen First

... contract and installation. * Participate in design iterations with team members in generating, 3D modeling, utilizing AutoCAD, Sketchup, Inscape and/or other modeling or rendering software in ...

Be Seen First

... contract and installation. * Participate in design iterations with team members in generating, 3D modeling, utilizing AutoCAD, Sketchup, Inscape and/or other modeling or rendering software in ...

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Contract Interior Design information

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How much do contract interior design jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract interior design in the United States is $25.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.95 and $28.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Contract Interior Designer, and why are they important?

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 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 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.

More about Contract Interior Design jobs
What cities are hiring for Contract Interior Design jobs? Cities with the most Contract Interior Design job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Interior Design jobs? The most popular types of Interior Design jobs are:
What states have the most Contract Interior Design jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Interior Design jobs include:
Infographic showing various Contract Interior Design job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 15% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,697 per year, or $25.3 per hour.
Director of Interior Design

Director of Interior Design

Mead & Hunt

Dallas, TX • On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Established in 1900, Mead & Hunt is a nationally recognized professional services consulting firm. Our planning, design and construction services are available to clients across a wide variety of sectors. From architecture, aviation, food/beverage processing, and federal to transportation, water infrastructure and more, our unique methodologies deliver innovative, cost-effective solutions that elevate clients and communities.
Here at Mead & Hunt, our culture is about taking care of people, doing the right thing, and doing what makes sense. We are a flexible company that believes in giving back to our communities. We are employee-owned and support initiatives through our various employee programs. We invest in our employees and build relationships that last.
Mead & Hunt has continued to exceed our strategic growth initiatives, creating opportunity for our current and prospective team members. As a result, a full-time position is available for a highly motivated Director of Interior Design to lead our Interior Design group. This opportunity is available at the following locations: Dallas, TX; Madison, WI; Tampa, FL; Bloomington, MN; Denver, CO; Austin, TX; San Diego, CA; Portland, OR; Lexington, SC; Charleston, SC and Chicago, IL.
Responsibilities include:
  • Supervising, managing, and mentoring department staff
  • Administrative functions related to employees, including employee performance evaluations and goal setting for professional growth
  • Participating in business development opportunities
  • Overseeing the management of interior design projects including budgets, invoicing and deadlines
  • Managing and leading local/state/federal government and aviation projects across the United States, including project deliverables such as reports, studies, specifications, and construction documents
  • Providing quality (QC) reviews
  • Other tasks as assigned by the Architecture Business Unit Leader.

A valid driver's license and travel (approximately 30%) will be required.
The successful candidate will have the following background:
  • Bachelor's degree (or higher) in architecture, interior design, or related field from an accredited college or university
  • At least 3 years of relevant interior design experience

OR
  • Associate's degree in architecture, interior design, or related field from an accredited college or university
  • At least 5 years of relevant interior design experience

OR
  • If no degree, must have at least 7 years of relevant interior design experience.

The ideal candidate will have experience in any/all the following:
  • At least 8 years or more of relevant experience
  • NCIDQ Certification is highly preferred
  • Leading an Interior Design Practice
  • Managing projects (budget, project planning, resource management, etc.)
  • Negotiating and administering contracts
  • Developing new business opportunities
  • Supervising and developing staff
  • Experience or familiarity with generative AI-driven tools, platforms, or systems (e.g., Microsoft Copilot, ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini) to enhance productivity, automate tasks, and reduce errors.

At Mead & Hunt we shape the future by putting people first. If you have strong communication and organizational skills, are self-motivated, and can work well both independently and as part of a team, we can help you grow your career working with industry experts on exciting projects. Complete the online application at www.meadhunt.com/careers if this matches your career goals.
Why Mead & Hunt?
  • Strong Company Culture
  • Robust Career Advancement, Training, & Growth Opportunities
  • Employee-Owned Firm
  • Flexible Schedules
  • Diverse Skillsets, One Company
  • Impressive Benefits Package

Mead & Hunt proudly offers medical, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, paid sick leave, parental leave, a 401K plan with a generous company match, life and disability insurance, and an employee assistance program.
Mead & Hunt will not sponsor a visa (H-1B, etc.) for this position.
Salary Range: $130,000 to $170,000 - Actual compensation may vary due to other factors such as: experience, skill set or location.
All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected veteran status, disability, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin.
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