1

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

Interior Architect

Chicago, IL · On-site

$85K - $114K/yr

Interior Architect This Interior Architect role focuses on leading design execution and technical ... Review the work of junior designers, technical designers, design assistants, and interns as ...

Interior Architect

Chicago, IL · On-site

$85K - $114K/yr

Interior Architect This Interior Architect role focuses on leading design execution and technical ... Review the work of junior designers, technical designers, design assistants, and interns as ...

This paid, mentored internship offers hands-on involvement in real project work alongside ... Interior Design or equivalent required • Strong interest in architectural lighting design ...

This paid, mentored internship offers hands-on involvement in real project work alongside ... Design, Interior Design or equivalent required Strong interest in architectural lighting design ...

This is a full-time, onsite internship with a 12-month duration. Address: 4849 S. Austin Ave, ... What you bring: * Pursuing or recently completed a degree in Architecture, Interior Design ...

This is a full-time, onsite internship with a 12-month duration. Address: 4849 S. Austin Ave, ... What you bring: * Pursuing or recently completed a degree in Architecture, Interior Design ...

ICT + Security Designer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

Possess / demonstrate the engineering knowledge and understanding to design or analyze data ... Our robust internship program recognizes undergraduate and graduate students from across the world ...

Assistant Project Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

... interior space. Traditionally, the façade is one of the major risk factors on any building, and ... internships or Project Engineering experience on projects of at least 5 million dollars (design ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Interior Design Internship information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$19

$37

How much do interior design internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for interior design internship 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 an interior design internship?

An Interior Design Internship is a temporary position where students or recent graduates work with professional interior designers to gain practical, hands-on experience in the field. Interns assist with tasks like creating design presentations, sourcing materials, conducting site visits, and supporting project management. This experience helps aspiring interior designers develop essential skills, build a professional portfolio, and make industry connections. Typically, internships can be part-time or full-time and may last a few months, depending on the employer and program requirements.

What types of projects and tasks can I expect to work on during an interior design internship?

As an Interior Design Intern, you can expect to assist with a variety of tasks such as creating mood boards, sourcing materials and furnishings, supporting design presentations, and helping with site visits or installations. Interns often collaborate closely with senior designers and project managers, gaining exposure to the entire design process from concept development to final execution. This hands-on experience provides valuable insight into client communications, vendor management, and the practical aspects of turning design ideas into reality. The internship is structured to help you build technical skills, expand your portfolio, and understand the collaborative nature of interior design firms.

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

To thrive as an Interior Design Intern, you should have a strong foundation in design principles, spatial planning, and a relevant degree or coursework in interior design or a related field. Proficiency in design software such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite is typically expected. Creativity, attention to detail, openness to feedback, and effective communication are standout soft skills. These skills and qualities are crucial for contributing to design projects, collaborating with teams, and developing professional expertise in a competitive industry.

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

AspectInterior Design InternshipInterior Designer
CredentialsTypically students or recent graduates; no required licensingLicensed or certified with relevant credentials
Work EnvironmentInternship settings, often in design firms or showroomsFull-time professional work in design firms, client sites, or self-employment
ResponsibilitiesAssisting with projects, learning design software, researchLeading projects, client consultations, project management

In summary, an Interior Design Internship is an entry-level position focused on learning and assisting, while an Interior Designer is a licensed professional responsible for managing design projects and client relations.

How do I get an interior design internship?

To secure an interior design internship, applicants should build a portfolio showcasing their work, gain familiarity with design software like AutoCAD or SketchUp, and apply to firms or companies that offer internship programs. Relevant coursework, strong communication skills, and a proactive approach can improve chances of selection.

Is an interior design internship worth it?

An interior design internship provides practical experience, skill development, and industry connections that can enhance a candidate’s resume and job prospects. It often involves working with design software, learning project management, and understanding client needs, making it valuable for those pursuing a career in interior design.

What do you do in an interior design internship?

An interior design internship involves assisting with design projects, creating mood boards, selecting materials and furnishings, and supporting project coordination. Interns often gain experience using design software like AutoCAD or SketchUp and observe client meetings and site visits to understand project execution. The role provides practical exposure to the design process and industry standards.

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 Internship jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Interior Design Internship job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,519 per year, or $20 per hour.

Interior Designer I - III, Chicago

KTGY Group, Inc.

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

About KTGY

With strategic office locations across the U.S. and more than three decades of design leadership, KTGY brings together architecture, interior design, branded environments and urban design to realize innovative concepts for how people live. Guided by our core values of design, collaboration, care and partnership our teams realize solutions that make a positive impact for our clients, communities, individuals and the environment. We merge vision, research and our people-centric storytelling and design process to transform possibilities into thriving residential, retail, hospitality and mixed-use destinations. 

Interior Designer I, II, III

Your Impact

KTGY’s Interior Designers support the development and delivery of interior design projects through design documentation, presentation materials, Construction Documents, and FF&E Specifications. Working in AutoCAD and/or Revit, this role contributes to the research, communication, documentation, and coordination required to execute projects effectively.

The level will be determined based on the selected candidate’s education, years of experience, technical proficiency, and ability to perform the responsibilities of the role:

  • Interior Designer I: Executes defined tasks as part of larger assignments, with guidance from senior team members, and assists with project documentation and coordination. 
  • Interior Designer II: Performs assignments with direction regarding the expected results and contributes more independently to design documentation, presentation materials, and project coordination. 
  • Interior Designer III: Independently performs assignments with general direction from the Senior Designer or Project Leader and takes greater ownership of design development, documentation, and coordination efforts.

Your Role

At KTGY, your career should be as thoughtfully designed as the spaces you create. We’re committed to nurturing passionate talent and guiding growth within the following four key aspects of our practice:

Design

Interior Designer I: Possesses an understanding of design principles and theory. Displays early creative interior design skills including concept development, hand sketching, and selection of colors, materials, finishes and furniture. Overall knowledge of the design process, including design documentation, FF&E specifications, color and materials.

Interior Designer II: Possesses a strong understanding of design principles and theory. Displays evolving creative interior design skills including concept development, hand sketching, and selection of colors, materials, finishes and furniture. Experience with the design process, including design documentation, FF&E specifications, color and materials. Strong understanding of color, materials and finishes.

Interior Designer III: Possesses an advanced understanding of design principles and theory. Displays strong creative interior design skills including concept development, hand sketching, and selection of colors, materials, finishes and furniture. Experienced with multiple areas of design including interior design, interior architecture, furniture design, accessorizing, and graphic design.

Collaboration

Interior Designer I: Performs tasks according to specific guidelines under general supervision of Senior Designers. Collaborates with outside product vendors on product performance, specifications and appropriateness of use. May instruct Design Interns on project specific tasks or deadline assignments.

Interior Designer II: Under supervision and guidelines, tackles design and technical challenges within large projects. Develops design solutions in a broader context through collaborative efforts involving outside consultants. Ensures daily tasks are completed and helps to supervise Junior Designers/ Design Interns. Meets regularly with Senior Designer/ Project Leader to discuss design direction, general tasks, project challenges, schedules, upcoming client meetings and deadlines.

Interior Designer III: Under minimal supervision and guidelines, tackles design and technical challenges within large projects. Meets regularly with Senior Designer/ Project Leader to discuss design direction, general tasks, project challenges, schedules, upcoming client meetings and deadlines. Developing leadership skills and desire to advance to Senior Designer level.

Care

Interior Designer I: Starts to develop an understanding of what matters most in KTGY's design approach and begins to exercise working knowledge of project fundamentals. Learns methods and best practices from other team members that support project success.

Interior Designer II: Learns methods and best practices from other team members that support project success. Works to become a trusted team member and exhibits an understanding of the design process and key elements.

Interior Designer III: Begins to anticipate project challenges and offers thoughtful solutions. Displays trust and confidence in their skill sets that design leaders can rely upon.

Partnership

Interior Designer I: Assists in preparation of client meetings and participates as an attendee for observational and informational purposes.

Interior Designer II: Displays interest in developing preliminary client interaction and seeks to develop industry relationships. Assists in preparation of client meetings and may participate in presenting elements of a project design.

Interior Designer III: Displays confidence in developing client interaction and seeks to develop industry relationships. Often attends client meetings as requested by Senior Designer/ Project Leader and assists with necessary documentation for meetings. May act as day to day client contact for project design development and design related issues.

Your Career 

KTGY categorizes roles within the following areas along your career path:

Explore | Focus | Manage | Specialize | Lead 

Interior Designer I - III is within Explore, which gives team members access and exposure to different aspects of their discipline, projects and business processes. The goal of this phase is to support the development of core skills and enable team members to begin laying the groundwork for professional success. Check out how we think about careers here.

Next Steps

Does that sound like you? Apply online and tell us about yourself!

The range that the Company expects to pay is 

Interior Designer I: $28 - $30 per hour

Interior Designer II: $30 - $33 per hour

Interior Designer III: $33 - $36 per hour

KTGY Perks - We Care About Your Health & Wellbeing

Design What Works for You 

  • Flexible healthcare plans that fit your needs, including an HDHP with company contribution to HSA
  • Smile bright with company-paid dental and keep your vision sharp with covered eye care
  • Comprehensive insurance package including life, AD&D, and disability coverage - because we've got your back

Let’s Partner on Your Future

  • Jump-start your retirement with our 401k matching program - you're 100% vested from day one
  • Level up your career and earn a bonus for obtaining licensure or accreditation with our Professional Development Program

A Collaborative Work Environment with Flexibility

  • Find your perfect balance with our in-office hybrid work model
  • Flexible Alternative Work Week options - design a schedule that works for you
  • PTO and holidays to recharge and celebrate

Thrive Together

  • Your mental health matters: Free unlimited confidential counseling through our EAP
  • Stay energized with wellness programs and resources
  • Extra perks and benefits that extend to your family