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Entry Level Interior Design Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

This is NOT an entry level position and the candidate will have a proven track record of outside ... design team, showroom, portfolio, and process behind you. Your Location: * Our Office: 21620 ...

Outside Sales Executive

Sterling, VA · On-site

$125K - $235K/yr

This is NOT an entry level position and the candidate will have a proven track record of outside ... design team, showroom, portfolio, and process behind you. Your Location: * Our Office: 21620 ...

Outside Sales Executive

Sterling, VA · On-site

$125K - $235K/yr

This is NOT an entry level position and the candidate will have a proven track record of outside ... design team, showroom, portfolio, and process behind you. Your Location: * Our Office: 21620 ...

Repair, service, and maintain air conditioning and heating units, door controls, interior lighting ... Participating in the specification and design of fire department vehicles. Performs automotive ...

Entry Level Interior Design information

See Virginia salary details

$14

$25

$40

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

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level interior design in Virginia is $25.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.76 and $28.12 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 Virginia?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Entry Level Interior Design job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,245 per year, or $25.1 per hour.

Interior Electrician ($7,500 Sign-On-Bonus)

Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority

Oak Hill, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 19 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Maintain interior electrical systems and equipment within airport terminal buildings, shops, and related facilities.

  • Troubleshoot, repair, modify, and perform preventive maintenance on electrical systems, equipment, and internal power distribution components.

  • Install wiring, junction boxes, switches, outlets, and conduit in new builds or renovations.


Job description

Compensation Grade:

T19

Salary Range:

$35.01-$45.50

Opening Date:

August 14, 2026

Closing Date:

Please Note: All job announcements close at 11:59 p.m. of the day before the posted closing date.

As an Interior Electrician, you will maintain interior electrical systems and equipment at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport or Washington Dulles International Airport.
Interior Electrician
This is a journey (full performance) level job in the Interior Electrician series.
Serves in the Electrical Division of the Airport Maintenance Department at either Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport or Washington Dulles International Airport.
Installs, tests, troubleshoots, repairs, modifies, and maintains interior electrical systems and internal power distribution equipment within airport terminal buildings, shops, and related facilities; fire alarms, public address systems, and emergency lighting systems; automatic equipment such as compressors; and internal electric distribution systems with circuit breakers. Performs related functions.

GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Works on electrical systems, parallel alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) circuitry, internal electric distribution substations, transformers, switchgears, suppression circuits, motor control center and motors, integrated circuits, DC controls, compressors, AC controls, air circuit breakers, and interior lighting.

Troubleshoots, repairs/replaces, performs preventive maintenance, and installs electrical systems (lighting and utility systems), equipment (illuminated signs, pumps, light fixtures, outlets, power panels, etc.), motors (fractional horsepower to 1000 horsepower), heating coils, timers, compressors, electrified overhead and automatic doors, fire alarms, etc.

Responds to trouble calls about malfunctioning equipment and power outages. Determines whether an issue should be worked on immediately (such as restoring operations of essential equipment or systems) or if the contractor should be called. Locates tripped circuit breakers and troubleshoots/repairs equipment to prevent recurrence of tripping.

Installs wiring, junction boxes, switches, outlets, power connectors, panel boards, control schemes, and conduit in new builds-outs or renovations.

May repair switchgears, transformers, regulators, generators, automatic transfer switches, motor control centers, UPSs, and variable speed drives; may troubleshoot, replace and install kWh meters and record readings for tenant billing purposes. Follows safe-clearance switching orders to create temporary electrical outages.

May work with Exterior Electricians in exterior work or work that involves both inside and outside equipment. May assist Electronic Technicians in modifications/repairs to electronic controls and related systems.

Performs electrical work following the National Electric Code (NEC) and the Airports Authority Design Manual. Performs electrical work to code and to pass inspection.

Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Four years of progressively responsible experience in the maintenance and repair of electrical equipment and systems. OR A journeyman license as an Electrician.

One year of specialized experience in the installation, testing, diagnosis, maintenance, and repair of a range of electrical equipment and systems, such as, but not limited to, air conditioning and air handling controls, interior lighting systems, emergency lighting systems, integrated circuits, motors, pumps, starters, suppression circuits, switches, parallel and AC and DC circuitry, and similar equipment.

Journey-level knowledge of, and skill in, low-voltage electrical equipment and systems installation, testing, adjustment, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair/replacement. This includes knowledge of the theories, principles, requirements, and standards of electrical work.

Skill in using tools, schematics, blueprints, and other equipment in electrical work.

Ability to analyze data and information (including blueprints and schematics).

Ability to work safely and knowledge of the safety rules, regulations, and procedures to do so.

Ability to speak and write effectively.

Skill in using a computer, computerized work order, and time and attendance system.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

A Journeyman Electrical License (or higher).

EDUCATION

A high school diploma or a Certificate of General Educational Development (GED).

CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSES REQUIRED

A state driver's license in good standing.

NECESSARY SPECIAL FACTORS

Operates vehicle airside and landside (requires AOA permit).

Work requires moderate to heavy physical exertion (exerting 20 to 40 pounds of force or lifting objects up to 80 pounds). May work in a cramped position or at heights of 50+ feet.

Is subject to possible electrical shock and exposure to potentially hazardous materials. Wears personal protective equipment as necessary.

May operate aerial lift truck, scissor lift, or forklift to work on overhead electrical systems.

Is subject to hold-over and recall on a 24-hour basis for essential services and emergencies such as snow removal.

Required to work various shifts, as needed. May work night hours or weekends.

Work is typically reviewed in progress and upon completion for quality, quantity, timeliness, teamwork, customer service, and other factors

WHAT WE OFFER

A career with the Airports Authority comes with more than just a paycheck; it offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support you and your family's health, financial security, and professional growth. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage; well-being resources; health savings and flexible spending accounts; pension and retirement plans; and ongoing training and development opportunities. Discover more about our benefits packagehere.

A background security investigation will be required for all new hires.

Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority is an Equal Opportunity Employer.| Follow us on Twitter @MWAAcareers.