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Interior Decorating Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Remodeling Designer/Drafter

Alexandria, VA ยท On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

This role focuses primarily on residential remodeling design and drafting rather than interior decorating. The right candidate will be able to create thoughtful, attractive, and buildable designs for ...

Interior Decorating information

See Virginia salary details

$13

$33

$68

How much do interior decorating jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for interior decorating in Virginia is $33.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.20 and $41.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are interior decorators in high demand?

Interior decorators are in moderate demand, with growth driven by residential and commercial renovation projects. Success often depends on a strong portfolio, industry experience, and knowledge of design software like AutoCAD or SketchUp.

What are some common challenges interior decorators face when working with clients, and how can they be managed?

Interior decorators often encounter challenges such as aligning their creative vision with the client's preferences, managing budget constraints, and coordinating with various vendors and contractors. Clear communication and active listening are essential to understand client needs and set realistic expectations from the start. Flexibility, strong organizational skills, and regular project updates also help ensure the project stays on track and clients are satisfied with the final outcome.

What is interior decorating?

Interior decorating is the art and science of enhancing the interior of a space to achieve a more aesthetically pleasing and functional environment for those using it. Interior decorators focus on selecting color schemes, furniture, accessories, lighting, and decorative elements to transform rooms according to the client's tastes and needs. Unlike interior designers, decorators typically do not make structural changes but rather focus on the surface look and feel of a space. Their goal is to create harmonious and inviting interiors that reflect the client's personality and lifestyle.

Is interior decorating a good career?

Interior decorating is a viable career that involves designing and enhancing interior spaces, often requiring creativity, knowledge of design principles, and proficiency with tools like CAD software. Job prospects can vary based on location, experience, and client demand, with opportunities in residential, commercial, and hospitality sectors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an interior decorator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Interior Decorator, you need a solid grasp of design principles, color theory, and spatial awareness, often supported by a diploma or degree in interior design or a related field. Familiarity with design software such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, or Adobe Creative Suite is commonly required, along with a strong portfolio. Excellent communication, creativity, and attention to detail help decorators understand client needs and deliver visually appealing spaces. These skills ensure that projects are both functional and aesthetically pleasing, leading to client satisfaction and professional success.

What is the difference between Interior Decorating vs Interior Design?

AspectInterior DecoratingInterior Design
CredentialsTypically no formal certification requiredRequires certification or degree in interior design
Work EnvironmentFocuses on aesthetics, furnishings, and decorIncludes space planning, structural changes, and technical aspects
Industry UsageCommonly used in residential and commercial spaces for decorationInvolves comprehensive design projects, including renovations

Interior decorating primarily involves selecting and arranging furnishings and decor to enhance aesthetics, often without formal credentials. Interior design encompasses a broader scope, including space planning, structural modifications, and technical knowledge, often requiring certification. Both roles are vital in creating functional and attractive spaces, but interior design is more comprehensive and technically involved.

Infographic showing various Interior Decorating job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,656 per year, or $33 per hour.

Remodeling Designer/Drafter

Rust Construction

Alexandria, VA โ€ข On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description





Rust Construction

Remodeling Designer/Drafter


Location: Alexandria, VA


Create Buildable Residential Remodeling Designs

Rust Construction is a design-build remodeling company based in Alexandria, VA, serving homeowners throughout Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C. The company specializes in residential remodeling, including kitchens, bathrooms, additions, whole-home renovations, outdoor living spaces, and historic home projects.


Rust Construction is seeking a Remodeling Designer/Drafter with strong design, drafting, and rendering skills. This role focuses primarily on residential remodeling design and drafting rather than interior decorating. The right candidate will be able to create thoughtful, attractive, and buildable designs for residential remodeling projects, with a strong focus on kitchens, bathrooms, additions, and larger home renovations.


Key Responsibilities

  • Collaborate with sales to conduct client meetings to understand design preferences and functional requirements
  • Create design drawings, plans, renderings, and presentation materials
  • Manage client expectations regarding timelines, budgets, and design possibilities
  • Support kitchen and bathroom design within larger remodeling projects
  • Manage finish selections.
  • Use drafting and design software such as Chief Architect, Revit, AutoCAD, SketchUp, or similar tools
  • Produce clear, accurate drawings that support estimating, client presentations, and construction
  • Collaborate with project managers, production team members, clients, vendors, and trade partners
  • Help ensure designs are attractive, functional, buildable, and aligned with project budgets

Qualifications

  • Residential remodeling, interior design, architecture, or drafting experience
  • Strong drafting and rendering skills
  • Experience with Chief Architect, Revit, AutoCAD, SketchUp, or similar design software
  • Kitchen and bath design experience
  • Strong understanding of space planning and construction documentation
  • Ability to produce buildable design drawings
  • Strong communication, collaboration, and attention to detail
  • Experience with design-build remodeling, additions, whole-home remodels, or historic renovation projects is helpful

Pay and Benefits

  • Full-Time, W-2 Employment
  • Pay: $70,000 - $80,000 annually, based on experience.
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Hands-on involvement in residential remodeling projects
  • Collaboration with an experienced design-build team
  • Opportunity to work on projects from concept through construction
  • Schedule: Monday-Friday. Hybrid flexibility may be available depending on project needs.

Why Rust Construction

Rust Construction is a great fit for a designer who wants to create work that is both beautiful and practical. You will be part of a team that values craftsmanship, thoughtful planning, and buildable design. The company works on meaningful residential projects throughout Alexandria, Northern Virginia, and Washington, D.C. This role offers the opportunity to contribute directly to the client experience and see your designs come to life in real homes.


Rust Construction encourages applications from qualified candidates of all backgrounds and experiences.