1

Design Director Interior Design Jobs in Madison, WI

The Director of Interior Environments leads the interior design department in the development of unique conceptual design solutions by providing design expertise and support to ensure consistent and ...

Utilizing a knowledge base of interior design, work closely with team members to participate in aspects of project programming, planning, and design and assist with Revit documentation for all ...

Utilizing a knowledge base of interior design, work closely with team members to participate in aspects of project programming, planning, and design and assist with Revit documentation for all ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Design Director Interior Design information

See Madison, WI salary details

$37.3K

$136.8K

$244.9K

How much do design director interior design jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for design director interior design in Madison, WI is $136,798.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $110,300.00 and $164,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a design director in interior design typically collaborate with clients and project teams throughout a project?

As a Design Director in Interior Design, you play a central role in bridging client vision with the creative and technical efforts of your team. You will regularly meet with clients to understand their needs, present concepts, and gather feedback, while also mentoring designers and coordinating with architects, engineers, and contractors to ensure that design intent is realized. Effective communication and leadership are key, as you'll review project progress, resolve challenges, and keep everyone aligned on goals and timelines. This collaborative environment not only ensures project success but also offers opportunities to refine leadership and project management skills.

What does a design director in interior design do?

A Design Director in Interior Design leads and oversees the creative vision for interior spaces, ensuring that projects align with client goals and brand identity. They manage design teams, coordinate with clients, architects, and contractors, and are responsible for the overall quality and consistency of interior design projects. Their role includes developing concepts, reviewing design plans, and making key decisions on materials, furnishings, and layouts. Design Directors also mentor junior designers and help secure new business for their firm by presenting ideas and proposals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a design director in interior design?

To thrive as a Design Director in Interior Design, you need a strong background in interior design principles, project management, and a degree in interior design or a related field, often with NCIDQ certification. Expertise in design software such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, Revit, and Adobe Creative Suite is typically required. Leadership, creative vision, and excellent client communication skills set exceptional candidates apart. These skills and qualities are vital for delivering innovative design solutions, managing teams, and ensuring client satisfaction in complex projects.

What is the difference between Design Director Interior Design vs Interior Designer?

AspectDesign Director Interior DesignInterior Designer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Interior Design, certifications like NCIDQBachelor's degree in Interior Design or related field, NCIDQ certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentLeading design teams, overseeing multiple projects, client presentationsExecuting design plans, working directly with clients, space planning
Employer & Industry UsageDesign firms, architecture firms, large corporationsInterior design firms, residential and commercial projects

While both roles require interior design credentials and industry experience, the Design Director Interior Design focuses on leadership, project oversight, and strategic planning, whereas the Interior Designer handles the execution of design concepts and client interactions. The director role involves managing teams and high-level decision-making, making it more senior and managerial in scope.

What job categories do people searching Design Director Interior Design jobs in Madison, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Design Director Interior Design jobs in Madison, WI are:

What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Design Director Interior Design jobs?

Cities near Madison, WI with the most Design Director Interior Design job openings:

Infographic showing various Design Director Interior Design job openings in Madison, WI as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $136,798 per year, or $65.8 per hour.

Director of Interior Environments

ERDMAN

Madison, WI โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Job Summary: The Director of Interior Environments leads the interior design department in the development of unique conceptual design solutions by providing design expertise and support to ensure consistent and high-quality designs and implementation of design standards. This role serves as a design expert and thought leader to clients and AEC industry.
Key Responsibilities
Client Relationship: Collaborates with others to deliver solutions for the client organization's culture, goals and budget while promoting an integrated approach to clients and their projects.
Project Oversight: Plays a lead role in overseeing all phases of the interior design process including the development of design concepts, design reviews and presentations.
Performance Management: Works with team members to establish clear goals and expectations, provides ongoing feedback, develops skills and knowledge of team members, and rewards people for their behavior and results.
Leadership: Champions ERDMAN's Vision, Mission, Goals, Values, and Service Offerings in a way that motivates others to reach beyond their own expectations. Proficiency Level Four.
Culture: Emphasizes consistency in cultural alignment and actively contributing to the maintenance and improvement of workplace culture Proficiency Level Four.
Architecture: The knowledge to plan, design, manage, and review construction, development, or manipulation of a physical environment for practical or creative objectives, such as buildings, landscapes, and/or other physical property. Proficiency Level Three.
Client Relationship Management: Cultivating ERDMAN clients and existing relationships to expand references, referrals, and revenue. Proficiency Level Three.
Financial Responsibility: Understands the financial obligations of the organization and is accountable for all financial aspects of the business operation within area of responsibility. Manages organizational resources to maximize return on assets and investments. Seeks to improve the financial viability of the overall organization. Takes prudent risks and does what is necessary to improve the organization's financial picture while maintaining alignment with the company vision, mission and values. Proficiency Level One.
Strategy: The ability to develop, communicate, and execute strategic plans that align with the organization's mission, vision, and goals. This includes analyzing industry trends, anticipating market needs, and translating strategic goals into actionable outcomes. Competency at higher levels integrates cross-functional collaboration, organizational restructuring, and maintaining alignment with client expectations and industry dynamics. Proficiency Level Three.
Project Management: The process of cultivating ERDMAN clients and existing relationships to expand references, referrals and revenue. (needs alignment, communication plan, implementation -- including collapsing other competencies). Proficiency Level Three.
Business Development: The identification of organizations and opportunities, plus the creation of productive business relationships with new or previously unsold clients and accounts. Proficiency Level Two.
Education: Bachelor's degree from a CIDA-accredited interior design program, Master's degree preferred
Certifications and/or Licenses:
Interior Design Certification (NCIDQ)
Member of IIDA, ASID or CHID preferred
LEED certification preferred
EDAC certification preferred
Relevant Experience & Training:
Principal level interior design leader skilled at leading interior design services for designated segment.
10 years' client management and leadership experience.
Must possess a thorough knowledge of interior design, furnishings and fixtures with emphasis on design,building materials, and construction methods, integration of engineering disciplines and building cost &codes.
Proficient in Revit, AutoCAD, graphic design, and 3D modeling and visualization software.
Working Conditions:
Work is performed in a professional, creative, open office environment with business casual
attire. Hours of work will generally be during regular business hours and will average 2,300 hours per year. Great flexibility in schedule is both required of you and returned to you due to our many project deadlines.
20% national travel required.