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Interior Design Associate Jobs in Buffalo, NY (NOW HIRING)

Senior Campus Planner

Buffalo, NY · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

... Title Associate Facilities Program Coordinator Department Campus Planning Posting Number P260016 ... A bachelor's degree in architecture, planning, interior design or related degree with 3 years of ...

Interior Design Associate information

See Buffalo, NY salary details

$13

$24

$39

How much do interior design associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for interior design associate in Buffalo, NY is $24.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.33 and $27.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an interior design associate?

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 is an interior design associate?

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 are the most commonly searched types of Interior Design jobs in Buffalo, NY? The most popular types of Interior Design jobs in Buffalo, NY are:
What job categories do people searching Interior Design Associate jobs in Buffalo, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Interior Design Associate jobs in Buffalo, NY are:
What cities near Buffalo, NY are hiring for Interior Design Associate jobs? Cities near Buffalo, NY with the most Interior Design Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Interior Design Associate job openings in Buffalo, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,046 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Senior Campus Planner

University at Buffalo

Buffalo, NY • On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 3 days ago


University at Buffalo rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

384th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Posting Details
Position Information
Fiscal Year
2025-2026
Position Title
Senior Campus Planner
Classification Title
Associate Facilities Program Coordinator
Department
Campus Planning
Posting Number
P260016
Posting Link
https://www.ubjobs.buffalo.edu/postings/60906
Employer
State
Bargaining Unit
08
Position Type
UUP Professional
Professional Appointment Term
Term
Salary Grade
SL4
Posting Detail Information
Position Summary
The University at Buffalo (UB) seeks a highly skilled and experienced Senior Campus Planner to join Campus Planning, part of University Facilities. Reporting to the Campus Planning Manager, the Senior Campus Planner plays a key role in shaping UB's physical environment across its three campuses (North, South, and Downtown) through integrated and strategic planning efforts.
This position leads and supports planning initiatives that guide the university's physical growth and transformation in alignment with institutional priorities and UB2020: The Comprehensive Physical Plan. The successful candidate will bring strong analytical, communication, and project management skills, as well as a collaborative mindset and deep understanding of campus planning principles.
Key Responsibilities:
Strategic Planning & Vision
  • Lead and manage planning studies and projects that support university-wide physical development and long-term campus vision.
  • Conduct analyses and research, gather and interpret data, and synthesize findings into clear recommendations.
  • Develop reports, maps, graphics, and presentations to effectively communicate planning concepts and outcomes to internal and external audiences.
  • Support planning initiatives by preparing meeting materials, documenting decisions, coordinating with consultants, and tracking progress and next steps.

Project Development
  • Partner with university leadership, committees, and external consultants on complex and sensitive planning efforts.
  • Coordinate space planning and programming activities to align with institutional priorities and secure necessary approvals.
  • Integrate planning principles and knowledge into project scope and implementation strategies to ensure alignment from concept through execution.

Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement
  • Work collaboratively with colleagues across University Facilities and academic and administrative units to advance campus planning goals.
  • Engage external partners, consultants, and stakeholders to inform and strengthen planning outcomes.
  • Represent Campus Planning on university committees and working groups.

Research, Analysis & Communication
  • Perform high-quality spatial, policy, and programmatic analysis to inform strategic decision-making.
  • Translate complex data into actionable insights and recommendations.
  • Produce professional-grade deliverables, including planning documents, reports, memoranda, meeting summaries, and visually compelling presentations on a range of planning and design topics.

Outstanding Benefits Package
Working at UB comes with benefits that exceed salary alone. There are personal rewards including comprehensive health and retirement plan options. We also focus on creating and sustaining a healthy mix of work, personal and academic pursuit - all in an effort to support your work-life effectiveness. We support your growth and development through our career coaching and training department and we qualify as a public service loan forgiveness organization. Learn more about our benefit packages.
About The University at Buffalo
The University at Buffalo (UB) #ubuffalo is one of America's leading public research universities and a flagship of the State University of New York system, recognized for our excellence and our impact. UB is a premier, research-intensive public university dedicated to academic excellence. Our research, creative activity and people positively impact the world. Like the city we call home, UB is distinguished by a culture of resilient optimism, resourceful thinking and pragmatic dreaming that enables us to reach others every day. Visit our website to learn more about the University at Buffalo.
University at Buffalo is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and, in keeping with our commitment, welcomes all to apply including veterans and individuals with disabilities.
In addition, a valid Driver's License is required. Applicants also must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without visa sponsorship.
Minimum Qualifications
  • A bachelor's degree in architecture, planning, interior design or related degree with 3 years of experience in campus planning. Equivalent combination of education and experience may be substituted for the degree. Excellent oral, written, organizational, and interpersonal skills required. Demonstrated ability to work with a diverse group of staff at all levels of an organization.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's degree in architecture, planning, interior design or related degree with 7 years of experience in campus planning and architectural programming. Demonstration of ability to generate architectural space programming studies, and architectural project work plans. New York State professional registration in architecture, engineering, or interior design preferred.

Our University Community
Prodig+
Executive Position
Physical Demands
  • The position requires the ability to sit for extended periods; walk across campus to attend meetings and conduct site visits; stand during inspections; and occasionally move/transport light materials.

Driving Requirements
Salary Range
$85,000 - $100,000
Additional Salary Information
The salary range reflects our good faith and reasonable estimate of the possible compensation at the time of posting, the role and associated responsibilities, and the experience, education, and training of the selected candidate.
Job Type
Full-Time
Campus
North Campus
Posting Alerts
Special Instructions Summary
Additional Information
Is a background check required for this posting?
Yes
Background Check Notification
For non-internal applicants: a selected candidate will have to complete and pass a background check prior to appointment.
Contact Information
Contact's Name
Daryl Ryan
Contact's Pronouns
Contact's Title
Campus Planning Manager
Contact's Email
dwryan2@buffalo.edu
Contact's Phone
716-645-6767
Posting Dates
Posted
02/10/2026
Deadline for Internal Applicants
02/24/2026
Deadline for External Applicants
Open Until Filled
Date to be filled
06/30/2026
References
Number of References Required
3
Reference Cutoff Date
Instructions to Applicant
By providing the names and e-mail addresses of my references, I hereby authorize either Human Resources or the applicable hiring department to contact my references via e-mail to request a reference letter on my behalf.

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