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Entry Level Interior Design Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Mostly Interior work * Work with top rated company SUMMARY OF ROLE: The Installer is responsible ... Able to lift & carry items up to 75 lbs. * Entry level use of all tools is welcome. Training will ...

Entry Level Interior Design information

See Tennessee salary details

$12

$22

$36

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

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level interior design in Tennessee is $22.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.12 and $25.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

How do I become an entry level interior designer with no experience?

To become an entry-level interior designer with no experience, focus on obtaining a relevant degree such as a bachelor's in interior design or a related field, and develop skills in design software like AutoCAD or SketchUp. Building a portfolio through internships, freelance projects, or personal work can demonstrate your abilities to employers and help you start in the field.

What can I do to get started as an entry level interior designer?

To start as an entry level interior designer, obtain a relevant degree such as a bachelor's in interior design or architecture, and develop a portfolio showcasing your work. Gaining experience through internships or assistant roles and learning industry-standard software like AutoCAD or SketchUp can also improve job prospects.

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

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

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Entry Level Interior Design jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Entry Level Interior Design job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Interior Design job openings in Tennessee 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, with an average salary of $47,829 per year, or $23 per hour.

Entry-level Interior Designer

River Street Architecture + Interiors

Chattanooga, TN โ€ข On-site

$45K - $55K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Entry-Level Interior Designer

Interior Designer | In-office | Full Time

Bring your ideas, curiosity, and design skills to a collaborative architecture and interiors studio where you can learn by doingโ€”and contribute to meaningful work from day one.

The Opportunity

River Street Architecture is looking for an entry-level interior designer to join our team. This role is ideal for a recent graduate or emerging designer who is eager to build experience across all phases of commercial interior design while working alongside architects and interior designers in a supportive, hands-on studio environment.

Youโ€™ll assist project teams with design development, documentation, presentations, research, and fieldworkโ€”gaining practical exposure to how thoughtful ideas become built environments.

What Youโ€™ll Do

ยท    Assist with drawings and documentation throughout all project phases.

ยท    Prepare and revise floor plans, elevations, sections, details, and other architectural/interior design documents.

ยท    Create 2D and 3D presentation materials that clearly communicate design ideas.

ยท    Support space planning, programming, finish selections, furniture, fixtures, and equipment (FF&E).

ยท    Research materials, products, manufacturers, and design solutions; organize findings for the project team.

ยท    Participate in design charrettes, project team meetings, client meetings, and vendor presentations.

ยท    Conduct clear, thorough field surveys and support site visits, punch lists, submittals, and shop drawing reviews as requested.

ยท    Collaborate with the team to solve technical and design challenges while meeting project standards and deadlines.

What You Bring

ยท    Bachelorโ€™s degree in Interior Design from an accredited university

ยท    0+ years of professional experienceโ€”we welcome recent graduates.

ยท    A foundation in drafting, space planning, design principles, materials, FF&E, and construction documentation.

ยท    Revit experience is preferred. Working knowledge of AutoCAD and Microsoft Office is acceptable.

ยท    Familiarity with Adobe InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, SketchUp, and/or Enscape is a plus.

ยท    Basic understanding of building codes, life safety, ADA requirements, construction methods, and sustainable design principles.

ยท    Clear verbal and written communication skills, attention to detail, and a genuine interest in learning.

ยท    A collaborative mindset and the ability to balance priorities and meet deadlines.

Position Details

This is a full-time, in-office position based in Chattanooga, Tennessee, with an anticipated start as soon as possible. The salary range is $45,000โ€“$55,000, depending on experience and licensure. This position reports to the Interior Design Studio Leader and to the Partners of River Street Architecture, LLC.

Benefits

River Street Architecture provides a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

ยท    Health, dental, and vision insurance.

ยท    Employer-paid life insurance equal to one times annual salary.

ยท    Voluntary life and accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) insurance.

ยท    Short-term and long-term disability coverage.

ยท    401(k) plan with a 3% employer contribution and no waiting period.

How We Work

Our culture is grounded in four values that guide how we collaborate, grow, and serve our clients:

Creative Collective โ€” Solve complex problems through thoughtful, inspired, and creative design.

Client Focused โ€” Listen closely and collaborate to create places that reflect each clientโ€™s vision, culture, and values.

Extreme Ownership โ€” Take responsibility, act with integrity, and continually strive to improve.

Growth Minded โ€” Stay curious, embrace change, and create a lasting positive impact for our clients and community.

Ready to Apply?

Apply through LinkedIn or email your rรฉsumรฉ and portfolio to chunt@riverstreetarchitecture.com with โ€œEntry Level Interior Designerโ€ in the subject line.

Weโ€™re excited to meet emerging designers who care about beautiful, functional spaces and want to grow through meaningful project experience.


River Street Architecture is an equal opportunity employer. We value diverse perspectives and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace. Reasonable accommodations are available for qualified individuals with disabilities.