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Interior Design Intern Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

As an Interior Design Professional with 3-5 years of experience, you will play a key role in developing and executing interior design projects from concept through completion. You will collaborate ...

They will work in collaboration and partnership with RH Interior Design to ensure the clients' design needs are met and their expectations exceeded. Our Design Consultants are innovators with an ...

They will work in collaboration and partnership with RH Interior Design to ensure the clients' design needs are met and their expectations exceeded. Our Design Consultants are innovators with an ...

As an Interior Design Professional with 3-5 years of experience, you will play a key role in developing and executing interior design projects from concept through completion. You will collaborate ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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Interior Design Intern information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$19

$37

How much do interior design intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for interior design intern in Chicago, IL is $19.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $22.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectInterior Design InternInterior Designer
CredentialsEnrolled in or recently completed relevant educationProfessional certification or degree in interior design
Work EnvironmentAssisting in projects, learning, supporting senior staffLeading projects, client consultations, project management
Employer & Industry UsageInternship programs, entry-level positions in design firmsFull-time professional roles in design firms or independently
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles, gaining experienceSeeking professional design services or career info

In summary, an Interior Design Intern is a student or recent graduate gaining hands-on experience under supervision, while an Interior Designer is a licensed professional responsible for managing design projects independently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an interior design intern?

To thrive as an Interior Design Intern, you typically need a background in interior design or a related field, a strong design portfolio, and a basic understanding of design principles. Familiarity with design software like AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite is often required, along with knowledge of project management tools. Creativity, attention to detail, effective communication, and a willingness to learn are standout soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for supporting design teams, contributing innovative ideas, and ensuring client satisfaction in a collaborative work environment.

What does an interior design intern do?

An Interior Design Intern supports professional interior designers in the planning, design, and execution of interior spaces. Their tasks may include assisting with project research, preparing mood boards, sourcing materials, creating drawings or renderings, and helping with client presentations. Interns gain valuable hands-on experience by shadowing designers, learning about industry tools, and participating in meetings with clients and vendors. This role is a great way to apply classroom knowledge to real-world projects and develop practical skills for a future career in interior design.

What are the most commonly searched types of Interior Design jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Interior Design jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What job categories do people searching Interior Design Intern jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Interior Design Intern jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Interior Design Intern jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Interior Design Intern job openings:

Infographic showing various Interior Design Intern job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,519 per year, or $20 per hour.

Interior Design Professional

Wight & Company

Darien, IL • On-site

$72K - $83K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Are you looking for an opportunity to do challenging, creative work that makes a real impact? Would you like to be part of a company that respects individual contributions and thrives on collaboration? Do you love to win? Then consider joining Wight & Company. We're a nationally recognized, award-winning architecture, engineering, and construction firm known for a dynamic company culture that fosters innovation and challenges the status quo, and we're looking for a talented professional to join our team.
As an Interior Design Professional with 3-5 years of experience, you will play a key role in developing and executing interior design projects from concept through completion. You will collaborate closely with clients, project teams, and vendors to ensure design solutions meet project objectives and client expectations. This position requires strong design acumen, project management skills, and the ability to work independently while contributing to a team environment.
Responsibilities:
  • Design Development: Under the supervision of a senior designer, lead the development of interior design concepts, including program assessment, space planning, furniture layouts, material selections, and color schemes. Create detailed design documentation and presentations.
  • Client Interaction: Participate in client meetings to understand project needs and requirements and assist in developing design solutions that align with the client's vision and project goals.
  • Project Management: Oversee various aspects of the design process, including managing project timelines, budgets, and deliverables. Coordinates with the project team to ensure smooth execution of design plans.
  • Vendor Coordination: Source and select materials, furnishings, and finishes. Manage relationships with vendors and suppliers, ensuring timely delivery and quality control of products.
  • Site Management: Conduct site visits to assess project conditions, monitor design implementation, and address any issues or discrepancies during construction.
  • Collaboration: Work with architects, engineers, and other design professionals to integrate interior design solutions with project objectives.
  • Documentation: Prepare and maintain comprehensive project documentation, including design drawings, specifications, and reports. Ensure all documentation is accurate and up to date.
  • Presentation: Develop and deliver design presentations to clients and stakeholders, effectively communicating design concepts and project progress.
  • Versatility: Adapting to various roles within a project, whether in leadership or support, while consistently performing at a high level. Proactively handles tasks beyond the primary scope and adjusts to changing priorities to ensure project success, team collaboration, and firm excellence.

Qualifications:
  • Education: Bachelor's or master's degree in interior design, architecture, or a related field from an accredited institution.
  • Experience: 3-5 years of professional experience in interior design, with a proven track record of successfully managing and delivering projects including furniture design and procurement process.
  • Design Skills: Proficiency in design software such as AutoCAD, Revit, and Adobe Creative Suite. Experience with 3D modeling and rendering is highly desirable. In-depth understanding of the furniture procurement process and the ability to complete furniture specifications package.
  • Project Management: Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects, adhere to deadlines, and handle client relationships effectively.
  • Creativity: Excellent design skills with a keen eye for aesthetics, spatial arrangement, and attention to detail. Ability to develop innovative design solutions.
  • Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills, presenting ideas clearly and collaborating effectively with clients and team members.
  • Organizational Skills: Effective organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks and manage project workflows efficiently.
  • Team Player: Ability to work independently and as part of a team, demonstrating flexibility and adaptability in a fast-paced environment.

Salary Range: $72,000 - $83,000. Individual pay will be based on several factors including experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities of the applicant.
Wight & Company offers excellent benefits and a wonderful work environment. Our comprehensive benefits include medical, dental, vision, disability, life insurance, flexible spending, paid holidays, paid time off, and a 401(k). Our flexible work schedule allows for a healthy work-life balance. For more information about our company, visit our website at www.wightco.com.
Wight & Company is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetics, protected veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.
Wight & Company values diversity in our workforce. We are committed to recruiting, hiring, and promoting people with disabilities and veterans. If you need an accommodation to assist with completing the electronic application, please call us at 630.969.7000 and ask to speak with a Human Resources representative.
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