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Entry Level Interior Design Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Architectural Designer

Palatine, IL · On-site

$55K - $62K/yr

Staff work in integrated teams of interior designers, architects, mechanical and electrical engineers focused on total design solutions for our clients. The team environment provides entry-level ...

You will partner with some of the industry's most talented interior designers and architects ... Involvement in all phases of the design process from conceptual development through artwork ...

Showing results 21-26

Entry Level Interior Design information

See Illinois salary details

$13

$24

$39

How much do entry level interior design jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level interior design in Illinois is $24.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.33 and $27.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical responsibilities of an entry level interior designer during the first year on the job?

In your first year as an entry level interior designer, you will likely assist senior designers with tasks such as developing design concepts, preparing mood boards, sourcing materials, and creating technical drawings using design software. You may also participate in client meetings, help with site measurements, and coordinate with vendors or contractors under supervision. This hands-on involvement is designed to help you understand the workflow of interior design projects while building your technical and communication skills within a collaborative team environment.

What is an entry level interior designer?

Entry level interior designers are professionals who are new to the field of interior design, often recent graduates or individuals with limited work experience. They assist with creating functional and aesthetically pleasing indoor spaces by supporting senior designers in tasks such as drafting layouts, sourcing materials, and preparing presentations. Entry level interior designers typically work under supervision, helping to execute design concepts while learning industry standards and gaining practical experience.

What is the difference between Entry Level Interior Design vs Interior Design Assistant?

AspectEntry Level Interior DesignInterior Design Assistant
Required CredentialsAssociate's or Bachelor's in Interior Design, basic knowledge of design softwareSimilar credentials, often with less experience required
Work EnvironmentDesign firms, showrooms, client sitesDesign firms, assisting senior designers, client meetings
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with space planning, material selection, draftingSupporting senior designers, preparing presentations, research

Both roles typically require similar educational backgrounds and work in similar environments. The main difference is that Entry Level Interior Design involves more independent project work, while Interior Design Assistants focus on supporting and assisting senior staff. Understanding these distinctions can help aspiring interior designers choose the right entry point for their career.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level interior designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Interior Designer, you need a foundation in design principles, spatial awareness, and proficiency with a relevant degree or coursework in interior design. Familiarity with technical tools such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite, and knowledge of building codes are typically required. Strong communication, creativity, and attention to detail help you collaborate with clients and team members while bringing design concepts to life. These skills and qualities are crucial for producing functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces that meet client needs and industry standards.
What are the most commonly searched types of Interior Design jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Interior Design jobs in Illinois are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Interior Design jobs in Illinois? For Entry Level Interior Design jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Entry Level Interior Design jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Entry Level Interior Design job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Interior Design job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,065 per year, or $24.6 per hour.

Architectural Designer

Wold Architects Inc

Palatine, IL • On-site

$55K - $62K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Watch Why Work at Wold to learn more about what makes us a great place to work.

Wold seeks highly driven, passionate, and talented individuals who have completed their non-professional or professional degree in Architecture for a full-time position in our Palatine, Illinois office. The successful candidate will emphasize client service and utilize their aptitude to create progressive design.

We are a dynamic growth-oriented company looking for candidates interested in making a long term commitment to a career full of opportunity and growth. As a full-service architecture and engineering firm, we provide a wide range of services for our clients across multiple market segments including K-12, government, civic, higher education, and health care. Our many client types offer endless possibilities for engagement in projects of all sizes and styles.

Wold’s philosophy is to foster and mentor professional development in a studio atmosphere where everyone’s talents and experiences are appreciated, needed, and nurtured. Staff work in integrated teams of interior designers, architects, mechanical and electrical engineers focused on total design solutions for our clients. The team environment provides entry-level candidates with the chance to actually design, while being supported by the expertise of professionals.

Requirements:

  • Professional or non-professional degree in Architecture from an accredited institution
  • 0-3 years of experience
  • Proficiency or willingness to learn Revit and Adobe Photoshop
  • Ability to diagram concepts and clearly sketch ideas
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Be creative, likeable, and energetic
  • Be enthusiastic about working in a team environment
  • Balance short-term deadlines and long-term projects

Position Responsibilities:

  • Prepare construction documents and building models using Revit, BlueBeam and AutoCAD
  • Coordinate with consultants and team members throughout all phases of design
  • Research building codes, products, and construction methods
  • Support construction administration and field observation activities
  • Attend client meetings and facilitate the collection of information and incorporate it into projects
  • Grow technical and professional skills through mentorship and project experience

Benefits Offered:

  • Competitive base salary with performance-based bonus opportunities
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • 401(k) with 6% company match
  • PTO frontloaded for immediate use
  • Hybrid or flexible work scheduling (role-dependent)
  • Paid parental leave and paid volunteer time
  • FSA and HSA options
  • Short-term and long-term disability insurance
  • Life insurance and dependent care assistance
  • Professional development and certification reimbursement
  • Frequent employee events and collaborative firm culture


Wold Architects and Engineers has created a training and mentoring environment that provides opportunities for motivated individuals to learn and grow.

Wold is an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity employer.