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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 Aug 28, 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.

Project Coordinator - Interior Design - Health Market

Nashville, TN • On-site

Gresham Smith
Architectural Services • 1 - 5K employees

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

At Gresham Smith, we call it Genuine Ingenuity. Our culture is the cornerstone of who we are, and our people are at the heart of everything we do. United by our Core Purpose—to plan, design, and consult to create healthy and thriving communities—we deliver innovative solutions for life’s essential infrastructure and institutions.

What sets us apart is our dedication to care for our people, our clients, and the places we call home. We are more than a team of professionals—we’re a community built on commitment, integrity, respect, and teamwork.

Why Gresham Smith?

When you join Gresham Smith, you’re joining a place where you can connect and thrive. Our employees consistently recognize us as a Best Place to Work because we go above and beyond to ensure that you feel valued, supported, and empowered.

About You

We're looking for someone who has:

  • Bachelor's degree in Interior Design/Architecture from an accredited university
  • Pursuing Certification.
  •  Served in an intern role for 1 to 3 terms preferred.
  • Strong concept design skills.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Strong organizational and time management skills.
  • Demonstrated competency using Revit, AutoCAD, Rhino, Photoshop, Sketch-up, Lumion, Enscape, and/or other 3D rendering software programs.
  • LEED accreditation and/or EDAC certification is a plus.

* You must include a portfolio of work samples along with a resume/CV in your online application.

About the Role

As a Project Coordinator - Interior Design, you will:

Responsibilities:

  • Learn the skills to be a successful entry level professional and gain experience under the supervision of practicing NCIDQ-certified interior designers.
  • Gain experience and knowledge to earn the credits to pass the NCIDQ examination and become NCIDQ certified.
  • Collaborate with team members through all phases of the design process, from programming and design concept through completion of construction documents.
  • Engage in Construction Administration, including job site visits
  • Ensure client satisfaction by learning and applying quality control processes to your work.

    Join Us

    If you’re excited to bring your talents to a collaborative, people-first environment where you can make an impact while growing your career, we’d love to hear from you.

    Here’s what you can expect:

    Professional Growth: In-house Learning, Tuition Reimbursement, Licensure Support, Professional Organization Engagement.

    Culture that Cares: 93% of employees say they feel cared for, and 96% are confident in our future success.

    Competitive Benefits:

    • Flexible Schedules & Generous PTO
    • Healthcare (Medical, Dental, Vision, Wellness Programs)
    • 401(k) with Company Match
    • Short- & Long-term Disability, Paid Life & AD&D
    • Supplemental, Critical Care, Pet, Legal & ID Theft Insurance
    • Family Planning and Parental Leave
    • Mass/Public Transit Program
    • Telemedicine and Employee Assistance Program

    Gresham Smith is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate. Everyone is invited to apply!

    GRESHAM SMITH does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters, headhunters, search firms, or agencies. No referral or recruiter fees will be paid without a fully executed GRESHAM PLACEMENT SERVICES AGREEMENT (PSA) in advance. Submissions made without a PSA may be recruited and hired by GRESHAM SMITH with no financial obligation to the submitting party. Any such unsolicited resumes or candidate information sent to hiring managers or any employee becomes the property of GRESHAM SMITH.