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Interior Design Associate Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

We believe our associates are our greatest brand ambassadors, and we value talent, entrepreneurial ... Interior Design related degree and/or professional portfolio a plus Compensation This position ...

We believe our associates are our greatest brand ambassadors, and we value talent, entrepreneurial ... Interior Design related degree and/or professional portfolio a plus Compensation This position ...

We believe our associates are our greatest brand ambassadors, and we value talent, entrepreneurial ... Interior Design related degree and/or professional portfolio a plus Compensation This position ...

We believe our associates are our greatest brand ambassadors, and we value talent, entrepreneurial ... Interior Design related degree and/or professional portfolio a plus Compensation This position ...

We believe our associates are our greatest brand ambassadors, and we value talent, entrepreneurial ... Interior Design related degree and/or professional portfolio a plus Compensation This position ...

We believe our associates are our greatest brand ambassadors, and we value talent, entrepreneurial ... Interior Design related degree and/or professional portfolio a plus Compensation This position ...

We believe our associates are our greatest brand ambassadors, and we value talent, entrepreneurial ... Interior Design related degree and/or professional portfolio a plus Compensation This position ...

Interior Design Retail Sales Manager

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

We believe our associates are our greatest brand ambassadors, and we value talent, entrepreneurial ... Interior Design related degree and/or professional portfolio a plus Compensation This position ...

We believe our associates are our greatest brand ambassadors, and we value talent, entrepreneurial ... Interior Design related degree and/or professional portfolio a plus Compensation This position ...

Interior Design Retail Sales Manager

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$15.75 - $19/hr

We believe our associates are our greatest brand ambassadors, and we value talent, entrepreneurial ... Interior Design related degree and/or professional portfolio a plus Compensation This position ...

We believe our associates are our greatest brand ambassadors, and we value talent, entrepreneurial ... Interior Design related degree and/or professional portfolio a plus Compensation This position ...

The Interior Design Project Manager is responsible for the management of CBI commercial interiors ... Associates are responsible for reviewing the CBI Sourcebook and other forms of communications such ...

The Interior Design Project Manager is responsible for the management of CBI commercial interiors ... Associates are responsible for reviewing the CBI Sourcebook and other forms of communications such ...

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Interior Design Associate information

See Tennessee salary details

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How much do interior design associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for interior design associate in Tennessee is $22.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.12 and $25.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 grouping objects or furniture in odd numbers—typically three, five, or seven items—since odd-numbered arrangements are more visually appealing. Interior designers often use this rule to arrange decor, artwork, or furniture to achieve a pleasing aesthetic and visual interest in a room.

What can I do with an associate's degree in interior design?

An interior design associate's degree prepares individuals for entry-level roles such as interior design assistant, showroom associate, or design coordinator. These positions involve supporting project development, client communication, and using design software like AutoCAD or SketchUp. Additional certifications or experience can help advance to senior or specialized design roles.

What is an associate interior designer?

An interior design associate is a professional who assists senior designers in planning, designing, and executing interior spaces. They typically have a relevant degree or certification, use design software like AutoCAD or SketchUp, and collaborate with clients and vendors to implement design concepts. This role often involves project coordination, research, and preparing presentations within a design firm or architectural environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Interior Design Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Interior Design Associate, you need a solid understanding of design principles, spatial planning, and materials, often supported by a degree in interior design or a related field. Familiarity with design software like AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite, as well as knowledge of building codes and regulations, is typically required. Strong communication, creativity, attention to detail, and client relationship skills are crucial soft skills for success. These abilities ensure that design solutions are both functional and aesthetically pleasing while effectively meeting client needs and project requirements.

How does an Interior Design Associate typically collaborate with senior designers and clients during a project?

Interior Design Associates frequently work under the guidance of senior designers, assisting with tasks such as sourcing materials, preparing design proposals, and creating presentation boards. They often participate in client meetings to take notes, gather requirements, and ensure that client preferences are accurately reflected in design concepts. Effective communication skills are essential, as Associates serve as a bridge between clients, vendors, and senior team members. This collaborative environment provides valuable learning opportunities and fosters the development of project management and client relations skills.

What are Interior Design Associates?

Interior Design Associates are professionals who assist interior designers in planning, designing, and executing interior spaces for residential or commercial clients. They support the lead designer by helping with tasks like researching materials, creating design presentations, coordinating with vendors, and managing project documentation. Interior Design Associates often have a background in design and a keen eye for aesthetics, and their roles can serve as a stepping stone to becoming a lead designer. They also collaborate closely with clients, contractors, and suppliers to ensure projects run smoothly and meet the client's vision and budget.

What is the difference between Interior Design Associate vs Interior Designer?

AspectInterior Design AssociateInterior Designer
CredentialsAssociate degree or certification in interior designBachelor’s degree in interior design or related field
Work EnvironmentAssistants in design firms, retail, or residential projectsLead projects, client consultations, and design development
Job ResponsibilitiesSupport design plans, select materials, prepare presentationsCreate design concepts, manage projects, coordinate with clients

Interior Design Associates typically hold certifications or associate degrees and support senior designers in various projects. Interior Designers usually have a bachelor’s degree and take on more responsibility, including client interaction and project management. Both roles are essential in the design industry, but the Associate role is more support-focused, while the Designer role involves leading projects.

What is the 70/30 rule in interior design?

The 70/30 rule in interior design suggests that 70% of a space should be composed of neutral or subdued colors, while 30% can feature bold or accent colors. Interior design associates often use this rule to create balanced and visually appealing environments by balancing dominant and accent elements.
What are the most commonly searched types of Interior Design jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Interior Design jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Interior Design Associate jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Interior Design Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Interior Design Associate job openings in Tennessee as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,829 per year, or $23 per hour.

Interior Design Retail Sales Manager

eth

Knoxville, TN

$15.75 - $19/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Named America's #1 Premium Furniture Retailer by Newsweek, Ethan Allen is a leading interior design destination combining state-of-the-art technology with personal service. After more than 90 profitable years in business, we still make about 75% of our custom-crafted products in our North American workshops and have an enduring reputation for quality and craftsmanship. In our global network of Design Centers, we offer complimentary interior design service and sell a full range of home furnishings, including custom furniture and artisan-crafted accents for every room in the home. We believe our associates are our greatest brand ambassadors, and we value talent, entrepreneurial drive, and the ability to build long-lasting relationships with our clients. We're glad you're exploring the possibility of designing your future with us.

Our Design Selling Leaders are the driving force behind our design business success

As a Design Selling Leader, you:

  • Have a passion for design.
  • Partner with a fabulous team of managers and designers.
  • Are tech-savvy, high-energy and on-trend
  • Partake in the best compensation programs in the industry- with generous salaries, incentives and flexible schedules.
  • Access state of the art technology.
  • Work with the most gorgeous product in the industry.

Our Design Selling Leader’s strengths include:

  • An entrepreneurial attitude and approach with strong communication and organizational skills. 
  • Passion and proven experience leading others.
  • Managing people and projects; preferably within a design-related environment.
  • Demonstrated use of technology and social media to drive business; experience with Live Chat, Augmented Reality and 3D Room Planner a plus.

As a Design Selling Leader, you:

  • Partner with Managers and Designers to achieve the goals and increase overall performance of the design center.
  • Manage, develop, train and motivate a team of design associates while maintaining a high level of customer contact.
  • Partner with each associate to manage design projects, customer contacts and relationships, sales volume, design consultant effectiveness and overall customer satisfaction
  • This position requires team leadership and the ability to manage the design process including the ability to review and provide feedback on design projects using technical and creative skills in color and space planning. 
  • Demonstrated ability to practice residential interior design.
  • Ability to train and coach for design, product knowledge, sales performance and customer service. 

Position Requirements:

  • Must be able to work holidays, evenings and weekends. 
  • Interior Design related degree and/or professional portfolio a plus

Compensation

This position offers a starting base salary of 60,000 to 70,000, depending on experience. In addition to the base salary, DSLs can earn monthly incentive compensation by demonstrating sales growth from prior periods.

Benefits

Benefits are an important part of the total compensation that is offered, providing peace of mind and financial well-being.  Ethan Allen is committed to offering a variety of benefits that allow associates to choose whether or not to participate based on personal and family needs.  Some of the benefits offered are 401(k) plan (with Employer contributions), multiple Medical Plans with Prescription Drug Coverage, Health Savings Account (including Employer contributions), Dental Plan, Vision Plan, Basic Group Term Life & Accidental Death & Dismemberment, Supplemental Group Term Life & AD&D Insurance, Dependent Group Term Life Insurance, Short and Long-Term Disability, Business Travel Accident Life Insurance, Flexible Spending Accounts – Health Care & Dependent Care, Commuter Saving Plans – Public Transit & Parking, Voluntary Whole Life Insurance, Voluntary Critical Care Insurance, Voluntary Accident Insurance and Employee Assistance Program. Benefit availability varies based on full-time or part-time employee classification.