... and Graduate Education: Major study -- interior design or other field that included or was ... The Interior Designer provides technical expertise to coworkers and contractors and routinely ...
... and Graduate Education: Major study -- interior design or other field that included or was ... The Interior Designer provides technical expertise to coworkers and contractors and routinely ...
Senior Project Architect
Boston, MA · On-site
$107K - $136K/yr
As architects, designers, workplace strategists and environmental specialists in the largest global ... Qualification: * Graduate of architecture or design school. Equivalent experience may be ...
Senior Project Architect
Boston, MA · On-site
$107K - $136K/yr
As architects, designers, workplace strategists and environmental specialists in the largest global ... Qualification: * Graduate of architecture or design school. Equivalent experience may be ...
Senior Project Architect
Boston, MA · On-site
$107K - $136K/yr
As architects, designers, workplace strategists and environmental specialists in the largest global ... Qualification: * Graduate of architecture or design school. Equivalent experience may be ...
Senior Project Architect
Boston, MA · On-site
$107K - $136K/yr
As architects, designers, workplace strategists and environmental specialists in the largest global ... Qualification: * Graduate of architecture or design school. Equivalent experience may be ...
The Harvard Graduate School of Education (HGSE) is a diverse community of learners, teachers, and ... Author and steward space policies, interior guidelines, and furniture standards in support of ...
The Harvard Graduate School of Education (HGSE) is a diverse community of learners, teachers, and ... Author and steward space policies, interior guidelines, and furniture standards in support of ...
Director of Construction and Capital Programs
Cambridge, MA · On-site
$59/hr
The Harvard Graduate School of Education (HGSE) is a diverse community of learners, teachers, and ... Author and steward space policies, interior guidelines, and furniture standards in support of ...
Director of Construction and Capital Programs
Cambridge, MA · On-site
$59/hr
The Harvard Graduate School of Education (HGSE) is a diverse community of learners, teachers, and ... Author and steward space policies, interior guidelines, and furniture standards in support of ...
Graduate Interior Designer information
See Massachusetts salary details
$33.3K - $41K
1% of jobs
$41K - $48.7K
3% of jobs
$48.7K - $56.4K
10% of jobs
$63.7K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$56.4K - $64.1K
12% of jobs
$64.1K - $71.8K
13% of jobs
The median wage is $76.2K / yr.
$71.8K - $79.5K
20% of jobs
$79.5K - $87.2K
14% of jobs
$88.5K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$87.2K - $94.9K
15% of jobs
$94.9K - $102.6K
6% of jobs
$102.6K - $110.3K
4% of jobs
$110.3K - $117.9K
2% of jobs
$33.3K
$79.6K
$117.9K
How much do graduate interior designer jobs pay per year?
As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for graduate interior designer in Massachusetts is $79,560.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,300.00 and $90,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is a graduate interior designer?
Graduate interior designers are recent graduates who have completed a degree in interior design or a related field and are beginning their professional careers. They typically work under the guidance of senior designers or architects, assisting with the planning, design, and implementation of interior spaces. Their duties may include creating design concepts, preparing drawings and presentations, sourcing materials, and collaborating with clients and contractors. This role helps them gain practical experience and develop the skills necessary for advancement in the interior design industry.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a graduate interior designer?
To thrive as a Graduate Interior Designer, you need a degree in interior design or a related field, a strong portfolio, and foundational knowledge of design principles and spatial planning. Familiarity with technical tools such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, Revit, and Adobe Creative Suite is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, effective communication, and teamwork are essential soft skills for collaborating with clients and colleagues. These skills and qualifications are crucial for delivering innovative, functional designs and ensuring successful project outcomes in a competitive industry.
What are some common challenges faced by graduate interior designers when starting out in the industry?
Graduate interior designers often face the challenge of transitioning from academic projects to real-world client expectations, which can involve tight deadlines, budget constraints, and adapting to evolving project requirements. Collaborating with senior designers, architects, and contractors requires strong communication and teamwork skills. Additionally, building a portfolio and gaining hands-on experience with industry-standard software are important for career progression. Embracing feedback and staying open to learning are key to overcoming these early-career hurdles.
What is the difference between Graduate Interior Designer vs Interior Designer?
| Aspect | Graduate Interior Designer | Interior Designer |
|---|---|---|
| Qualifications | Typically holds a bachelor's degree in interior design or related field; may have limited professional experience | Usually has completed education and gained some professional experience; may hold certification or licensure depending on region |
| Work Environment | Assists senior designers in project tasks; works in design studios, architectural firms, or interior design companies | Manages design projects independently or collaboratively; works in similar environments with increased responsibility |
| Job Responsibilities | Supports design development, drafting, and research; learning industry standards | Develops design concepts, prepares presentations, and oversees project execution |
The main difference between a Graduate Interior Designer and an Interior Designer lies in experience and responsibility. Graduate Interior Designers are typically in the early stages of their careers, focusing on learning and supporting projects, while Interior Designers have more experience and handle projects more independently.
How to do interior design after graduation?
To pursue a career as a graduate interior designer, gain practical experience through internships or entry-level positions, develop a strong portfolio showcasing your work, and obtain relevant certifications such as NCIDQ if required in your region. Proficiency in design software like AutoCAD, SketchUp, or Revit is essential, and continuous learning about current trends and building codes enhances employability.
Is a master's degree in interior design worth it?
For a graduate interior designer, a master's degree can enhance skills, increase job opportunities, and potentially lead to higher salaries. However, practical experience, portfolio quality, and professional certifications often weigh more in hiring decisions than advanced degrees alone.
What are popular job titles related to Graduate Interior Designer jobs in Massachusetts?
For Graduate Interior Designer jobs in Massachusetts, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Graduate Interior Designer jobs in Massachusetts look for?
The top searched job categories for Graduate Interior Designer jobs in Massachusetts are:
Supervisory Interior Designer
Brockton, MA
SD Department of Veterans Affairs
$101K/yr
Full-time
Posted 4 days ago
Job description
This Supervisory Interior Designer position is organizationally located in the Facilities Management Service at the VA Boston Healthcare System (Brockton campus).Qualifications:To qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements by the closing date of this announcement, 08/31/2026.
Time-In-Grade Requirement: Applicants who are current Federal employees and have held a GS grade any time in the past 52 weeks must also meet time-in-grade requirements by the closing date of this announcement. For a GS-12 position, you must have served 52 weeks at the GS-11. The grade may have been in any occupation, but must have been held in the Federal service. An SF-50 that shows your time-in-grade eligibility must be submitted with your application materials. If the most recent SF-50 has an effective date within the past year, it may not clearly demonstrate you possess one-year time-in-grade, as required by the announcement. In this instance, you must provide an additional SF-50 that clearly demonstrates one-year time-in-grade. Note: Time-In-Grade requirements also apply to former Federal employees applying for reinstatement as well as current employees applying for Veterans Employment Opportunities Act of 1998 (VEOA) appointment.
You may qualify based on your experience and/or education as described below:
Interior Design Series, 1008
Individual Occupational Requirements
Education
Undergraduate and Graduate Education: Major study -- interior design or other field that included or was supplemented by at least 30 semester hours in interior design, interior architecture, or interior environmental design; or passage of the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) examination.
or
Experience
Minimum Qualifications GS-12: Have at least one (1) full year of specialized experience equivalent to at least next lower grade level (GS-11) in the Federal service that has equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform successfully the duties of the position, and that is typically in or related to the work of this Supervisory Interior Designer position. The Interior Designer plans and implements a comprehensive Interior Design Program which includes providing complete, from concept to installation, interior design services for the organization to include satellite facilities. The Interior Designer provides technical expertise to coworkers and contractors and routinely coordinates with engineers, architects, and other designers to ensure compliance with VA regulations and facility design criteria. The Interior Designer acts as a technical representative for design and finish specifications matters and manages the facility furniture program. The Interior Designer influences design of new construction from conception through activation by an in-depth knowledge of use requirements and availability of resources to fulfill these requirements; ensures that appropriately designed finish plans are formulated and comply with commercial building codes, safety and environmental guidelines and the agency master specification for all renovation and new construction projects. The Interior Designer plans, specifics, writes procurement packages, supervises installation and acts as the contracting officer's representative for all furniture procurements within the facility. The Interior Designer provides plans, consultation, advice, specifications, and designs for virtually all spaces involved in new construction and/or renovation; reviews Architect/Engineer submittals for compliance with agency regulations and facility design criteria. The Interior Designer acts as a technical representative for design and finish specifications matters. The Interior Designer influences design of new construction from conception through activation by an in-depth knowledge of use requirements and availability of furnishings to fulfill these requirements; ensures that appropriately designed color schemes are formulated for all renovation and new construction projects. The Interior Designer works with direct supervisor to determine priorities and utilize an annual interior design budget in recurring funds and budgeting projects that may involve millions of dollars in non-recurring funds. This includes verifying receipt of orders and coordinating installation. In addition to fixed annual budget and non- recurring funds for projects, incumbent prepares interior design budgetary requirements for major and minor construction projects, for supplemental and future funding. The position is responsible for prioritizing needs at the medical center and preparing budgets and justifications to obtain funds needed by for the Interior Design program. The Interior Designer manages an interior design file system that includes drawings, specifications, budgets, project information, government contracts, requests for interior design services, and regulations pertaining to interior design; manages a resource library of catalogs for furniture, materials, finishes, and all other design-related items that are appropriate by ensuring they contribute to infection prevention, long term maintenance and sustainability goals for a healthcare environment.
You will be rated on the following Competencies for this position:
Note: A full year of work is considered to be 35-40 hours of work per week. Part-time experience will be credited on the basis of time actually spent in appropriate activities. Applicants wishing to receive credit for such experience must indicate clearly the nature of their duties and responsibilities in each position and the number of hours a week spent in such employment.
Physical Requirements: Work can vary from seated at a desk in front of a computer to extensive walking throughout the
facility/grounds (interior and exterior) and visitation to construction sites and several off-site facilities. Work may require some lifting (<50lbs.), light furniture moving/rearranging, carrying heavy and bulky catalogs/artwork/samples etc. and travel/driving as needed to showrooms, furniture dealers and satellite facilities. Dexterity is required related to duties performed in drafting, sketching and writing.
For more information on these qualification standards, please visit the United States Office of Personnel Management's website at https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/.Education:There is no educational substitution at this grade level.
Note: Only education or degrees recognized by the U.S. Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment. You can verify your education here: http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/. If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education. For further information, visit: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/.Employment Type: OTHER
Time-In-Grade Requirement: Applicants who are current Federal employees and have held a GS grade any time in the past 52 weeks must also meet time-in-grade requirements by the closing date of this announcement. For a GS-12 position, you must have served 52 weeks at the GS-11. The grade may have been in any occupation, but must have been held in the Federal service. An SF-50 that shows your time-in-grade eligibility must be submitted with your application materials. If the most recent SF-50 has an effective date within the past year, it may not clearly demonstrate you possess one-year time-in-grade, as required by the announcement. In this instance, you must provide an additional SF-50 that clearly demonstrates one-year time-in-grade. Note: Time-In-Grade requirements also apply to former Federal employees applying for reinstatement as well as current employees applying for Veterans Employment Opportunities Act of 1998 (VEOA) appointment.
You may qualify based on your experience and/or education as described below:
Interior Design Series, 1008
Individual Occupational Requirements
Education
Undergraduate and Graduate Education: Major study -- interior design or other field that included or was supplemented by at least 30 semester hours in interior design, interior architecture, or interior environmental design; or passage of the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) examination.
or
Experience
Specialized Experience (for positions above GS-5): Experience that required the performance of work concerned with the design and alteration of interior spaces to meet functional and aesthetic needs such as:
- Identifying, researching, and creatively solving problems pertaining to the function and quality of the interior environment.
- Performing services relative to interior spaces, including programming, design analysis, space planning and aesthetics, using specialized knowledge of interior construction, building systems and components, building codes, equipment, materials, and furnishings.
- Preparing drawings and documents relative to the design of interior spaces in order to enhance and protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public.
- Coordinating and integrating the mechanical, electrical, and structural engineering disciplines within the interior context.
- Managing projects, developing cost estimates, evaluating bid proposals, reviewing construction documents, participating in on-site construction visits, conducting pre- and post-occupancy evaluations, developing standards for efficient space management, etc.
Minimum Qualifications GS-12: Have at least one (1) full year of specialized experience equivalent to at least next lower grade level (GS-11) in the Federal service that has equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform successfully the duties of the position, and that is typically in or related to the work of this Supervisory Interior Designer position. The Interior Designer plans and implements a comprehensive Interior Design Program which includes providing complete, from concept to installation, interior design services for the organization to include satellite facilities. The Interior Designer provides technical expertise to coworkers and contractors and routinely coordinates with engineers, architects, and other designers to ensure compliance with VA regulations and facility design criteria. The Interior Designer acts as a technical representative for design and finish specifications matters and manages the facility furniture program. The Interior Designer influences design of new construction from conception through activation by an in-depth knowledge of use requirements and availability of resources to fulfill these requirements; ensures that appropriately designed finish plans are formulated and comply with commercial building codes, safety and environmental guidelines and the agency master specification for all renovation and new construction projects. The Interior Designer plans, specifics, writes procurement packages, supervises installation and acts as the contracting officer's representative for all furniture procurements within the facility. The Interior Designer provides plans, consultation, advice, specifications, and designs for virtually all spaces involved in new construction and/or renovation; reviews Architect/Engineer submittals for compliance with agency regulations and facility design criteria. The Interior Designer acts as a technical representative for design and finish specifications matters. The Interior Designer influences design of new construction from conception through activation by an in-depth knowledge of use requirements and availability of furnishings to fulfill these requirements; ensures that appropriately designed color schemes are formulated for all renovation and new construction projects. The Interior Designer works with direct supervisor to determine priorities and utilize an annual interior design budget in recurring funds and budgeting projects that may involve millions of dollars in non-recurring funds. This includes verifying receipt of orders and coordinating installation. In addition to fixed annual budget and non- recurring funds for projects, incumbent prepares interior design budgetary requirements for major and minor construction projects, for supplemental and future funding. The position is responsible for prioritizing needs at the medical center and preparing budgets and justifications to obtain funds needed by for the Interior Design program. The Interior Designer manages an interior design file system that includes drawings, specifications, budgets, project information, government contracts, requests for interior design services, and regulations pertaining to interior design; manages a resource library of catalogs for furniture, materials, finishes, and all other design-related items that are appropriate by ensuring they contribute to infection prevention, long term maintenance and sustainability goals for a healthcare environment.
You will be rated on the following Competencies for this position:
- Conflict Management
- Influencing/Negotiating
- Manages Resources
- Partnering
- Planning and Evaluating
Note: A full year of work is considered to be 35-40 hours of work per week. Part-time experience will be credited on the basis of time actually spent in appropriate activities. Applicants wishing to receive credit for such experience must indicate clearly the nature of their duties and responsibilities in each position and the number of hours a week spent in such employment.
Physical Requirements: Work can vary from seated at a desk in front of a computer to extensive walking throughout the
facility/grounds (interior and exterior) and visitation to construction sites and several off-site facilities. Work may require some lifting (<50lbs.), light furniture moving/rearranging, carrying heavy and bulky catalogs/artwork/samples etc. and travel/driving as needed to showrooms, furniture dealers and satellite facilities. Dexterity is required related to duties performed in drafting, sketching and writing.
For more information on these qualification standards, please visit the United States Office of Personnel Management's website at https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/.Education:There is no educational substitution at this grade level.
Note: Only education or degrees recognized by the U.S. Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment. You can verify your education here: http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/. If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education. For further information, visit: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/.Employment Type: OTHER