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Entry Level Interior Design Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Nycom, Inc

Laboratory Project Designer

Cary, NC · On-site

$45K - $51K/yr

With offices throughout the Mid-Atlantic and Southeastern US, our specialty is interior ... CAD Drafter designed to support our sales team. This is an entry level position with lots of ...

Nycom, Inc

Laboratory Project Designer

Cary, NC · Hybrid

$45K - $51K/yr

With offices throughout the Mid-Atlantic and Southeastern US, our specialty is interior ... CAD Drafter designed to support our sales team. This is an entry level position with lots of ...

Nycom . Inc

Laboratory Project Designer

Cary, NC · On-site

$45K - $51K/yr

With offices throughout the Mid-Atlantic and Southeastern US, our specialty is interior ... CAD Drafter designed to support our sales team. This is an entry level position with lots of ...

All JobsInterior Design JobsEntry Level Interior Design JobsEntry Level Interior Design Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Entry Level Interior Design information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$13

$24

$39

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

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level interior design in Raleigh, NC is $24.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.38 and $27.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Will AI replace interior designers?

AI technology can assist interior designers by providing design suggestions, automating tasks, and enhancing visualization tools, but it is unlikely to fully replace the creative and client-focused aspects of the profession. Interior design requires human judgment, creativity, and understanding of client needs that AI cannot replicate. Entry-level interior designers should focus on developing skills in design software, communication, and project management to stay competitive as AI tools become more integrated into the industry.

What are typical responsibilities for 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 entry level interior designers?

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 is the 3-5-7 rule in interior design?

The 3-5-7 rule in interior design is a guideline for creating balanced and harmonious spaces by arranging furniture and decor in groups of three, five, or seven items. This rule helps interior designers, including entry-level professionals, achieve visual interest and avoid clutter, often using it when planning layouts or selecting accessories. Understanding such principles is useful for developing a cohesive design aesthetic and improving client satisfaction.

What is the lowest salary for an interior designer?

Entry-level interior designers typically earn starting salaries around $30,000 to $40,000 annually, depending on location and employer. Salaries can vary based on experience, certifications, and the complexity of projects handled.

How do I become an interior designer with no experience?

Entry-level interior designers can start by gaining foundational knowledge through online courses or community college classes, and building a portfolio with personal projects or volunteer work. Internships or apprenticeships provide practical experience, and obtaining certification such as the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) can improve job prospects. Developing skills in design software like AutoCAD or SketchUp is also beneficial.

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 Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Interior Design jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Interior Design jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Entry Level Interior Design jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Interior Design jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Interior Design jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Entry Level Interior Design jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Entry Level Interior Design job openings:
Entry Level Interior Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Interior Design job openings in Raleigh, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,223 per year, or $24.6 per hour.
Interior Designer, Entry Level

Interior Designer, Entry Level

ISG

Raleigh, NC • On-site

$45K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Interior Designer, Entry Level
Department: Interior Design
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: Raleigh, NC
Compensation: $45,000 - $60,000 / year
Description
Founded in 1973, ISG is a multi-disciplinary, full-service architecture, engineering, planning, and interior design firm supporting clients nationwide. Our mission: simplify solutions; passionately design the future, drives everything we do. As employee owners, we are united by a shared commitment to collaboration, creativity, and positively impacting our teammates, clients, and communities.
If you're an emerging interior designer eager to learn, grow, and contribute to meaningful projects, we invite you to explore your career potential with ISG's Interior Design team.
As an Interior Designer at ISG, you will work closely with Jane Miller, IIDA, Interior Design Practice Group Leader, and collaborate with experienced designers and multi-disciplinary teams. This role offers hands-on exposure to projects from schematic design and design development through construction documents and construction administration.
You'll contribute to a variety of project tasks and gain experience across the full design process, including preparing design presentations, assisting with drawings and specifications, participating in client meetings, and learning how projects are delivered within scope, schedule, and budget.
Explore our Interior Design Portfolio to get a glimpse of the projects you could be part of.
Essential Duties
This position is designed to support growth, learning, and increasing responsibility over time
  • Assist with the development of interior design solutions that align with client goals, budgets, schedules, and applicable codes
  • Support the preparation of interior design construction documents using Revit, including:
    • Floor plans
    • Interior elevations
    • Reflected ceiling plans
    • Finish plans and schedules
    • Millwork details (with guidance)
  • Create and assemble design materials such as:
    • Precedent image and concept presentations
    • Finish materials and material boards
    • 3D views or renderings (as applicable)
    • Furniture selections and support with specifications
  • Apply foundational knowledge of building codes, ADA guidelines, and life safety requirements, with mentorship from team members
  • Research products, materials, and finishes; assist with maintaining the material and resource library
  • Collaborate with internal disciplines (architecture, engineering, planning) and external partners including vendors and consultants
  • Participate in client meetings and project discussions, building communication and presentation skills
  • Demonstrate curiosity, accountability, creativity, and enthusiasm as an employee owner

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
  • 0-2 years of professional or internship experience in interior design (internships and academic project work welcome)
  • Bachelor's Degree in Interior Design (CIDA-accredited program preferred)
  • Interest in pursuing NCIDQ certification (or eligibility in the future)
  • Commercial Design experience, preferred
  • Familiarity with Revit; exposure to Adobe Photoshop and InDesign is a plus
  • Basic understanding of the interior design process, including space planning, materials, finishes, and furniture
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks, meet deadlines, and adapt in a collaborative team environment
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Eagerness to learn, take initiative, and grow with guidance from experienced team members

ISG Employee Owner Benefits
  • Medical, dental, and vision
  • Paid time off, pro-rated amount available on your start date
  • Paid holidays and paid volunteer time
  • Paid parental leave
  • Bi-annual profit sharing
  • Employee Ownership Stock Plan (ESOP)
  • 401K retirement plan
  • Life insurance
  • HSA and FSA options
  • Bereavement leave
  • Supplemental voluntary benefits
  • Short term and long-term disability
  • Parking reimbursement, varies on office location

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