2

Entry Level Interior Design Jobs in Austin, TX (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Interior Design information

See Austin, TX salary details

$14

$25

$40

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

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level interior design in Austin, TX is $25.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.90 and $28.27 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 Austin, TX? The most popular types of Interior Design jobs in Austin, TX are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Interior Design jobs in Austin, TX? For Entry Level Interior Design jobs in Austin, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Austin, TX are hiring for Entry Level Interior Design jobs? Cities near Austin, TX with the most Entry Level Interior Design job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Interior Design job openings in Austin, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,536 per year, or $25.3 per hour.

Commercial Construction Design & Permitting Associate

Citadel Development Services LLC

Austin, TX • On-site

$45K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k) matching
  • Bonus based on performance
  • Competitive salary
  • Flexible schedule
  • Health insurance
  • Opportunity for advancement
  • Training & development

Company Overview:  
 
At Citadel, we possess the skills and expertise to tackle a wide range of commercial projects, paired with deep appreciation for culture and values.  Recognizing that each project is unique, we adopt a customized approach by understanding our clients, their values and their goals.  We believe that maintaining a positive and enthusiastic attitude is crucial for success.  Whether managing a major commercial project or engaging without team, we consistently bring a high energy and commitment. 
 
 
Job Overview:
 The Design & Permitting Associate supports our branded retail / commercial rollout programs by producing accurate early site layouts, developing coordinated architectural models and drawings, and assisting with jurisdictional permit submittals. This entry-level-to-early-career role is ideal for a detail‑oriented drafter/designer who is comfortable in BIM (Revit) and AutoCAD, eager to learn our prototype drawing standards, and willing to navigate online permitting portals. 
 
 
Key Responsibilities:
 
  • Develop preliminary site and floor plan layouts from surveys, civil backgrounds, and client program criteria.
  • Build and maintain coordinated Revit models from prototype templates; produce plan, elevation, section, and detail sheets per company standards.
  • Translate markups/redlines from senior designers, architects, or project managers into accurate construction documents.
  • Import and coordinate consultant backgrounds (civil, structural, MEP) and update drawing sets accordingly.
  • Use AutoCAD and/or Revit drafting tools to generate dimensionally accurate details and schedules.
  • Prepare export packages (PDF, DWF, DWG, IFC as required) for internal reviews and external stakeholders.
  • Prepare jurisdictional permit application forms using provided project data; track required attachments (drawings, reports, calculations, fees, affidavits).
  • Upload drawings and documents to municipal or third‑party online portals; confirm receipt and application completeness.
  • Log permit numbers, plan review cycles, comments, and approval dates in the project tracking system.
  • Assist in responding to plan review comments—route to responsible discipline, update drawings, compile resubmittal packages.
  • Coordinate with expediters or AHJ (Authorities Having Jurisdiction) contacts as directed.
  • Support drawing and permitting workflows for an assigned group of brand clients.
  • Maintain brand‑specific prototype libraries (title blocks, typical details, finish legends, equipment blocks) under guidance of senior staff.
  • Track brand program nuances: signage standards, drive‑thru clearances, equipment footprints, accessibility requirements, and jurisdictional hot buttons common to each program.
 
Qualifications:
 
  • Experience: 1–3 years in architectural drafting, production design, or closely related role (internships count). Portfolio required with application.
  • Software: Proficient in Revit (BIM) and AutoCAD for 2D/3D production; working ability in SketchUp for quick massing / visualization.
  • Document Tools: Adobe Acrobat and/or Bluebeam Revu for markups; familiarity with Google Earth or similar for site context.
  • Construction Literacy: Basic understanding of building assemblies, materials, and construction sequencing; able to coordinate drawing details across disciplines.
  • Plan Reading: Able to read and interpret surveys, civil grading plans, utility plans, engineering drawings, and specifications.
  • Productivity Apps: Basic Microsoft Office (Outlook, Excel, Word) for communication and tracking.
  • Exposure to municipal permit processes: filling out applications, navigating online submittal portals, tracking status.
  • Basic understanding of building and zoning code concepts (occupancy, egress, fire separations, ADA / accessibility).
  • Interior / fixture design experience or coursework.
  • Familiarity with multi‑site rollout or prototype‑based design programs.