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Interior Design Internships Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Are you an Interior Designer who thrives in an imaginative and inventive environment? Do you flourish when part of a cohesive team where collaboration and ideas flow freely? Want to work for a firm

Are you an Interior Designer who thrives in an imaginative and inventive environment? Do you flourish when part of a cohesive team where collaboration and ideas flow freely? Want to work for a firm

**Please note that we are currently hiring for August and September 2022 start dates** The design assistant role at COUPAR is a key role within our organization. As the design assistant, you will be

**Please note that we are currently hiring for August and September 2022 start dates** The design assistant role at COUPAR is a key role within our organization. As the design assistant, you will be

**Please note that we are currently hiring for August and September 2022 start dates** The design assistant role at COUPAR is a key role within our organization. As the design assistant, you will be

At HDR, our employee-owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected, a place where everyone is empowered to bring their authentic selves and

At HDR, our employee-owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected, a place where everyone is empowered to bring their authentic selves and

At HDR, our employee-owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected, a place where everyone is empowered to bring their authentic selves and

At HDR, our employee-owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected, a place where everyone is empowered to bring their authentic selves and

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Interior Design Internships information

See California salary details

$13

$25

$40

How much do interior design internships jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for interior design internships in California is $25.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $27.98 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 gain hands-on experience in the field of interior design. Interns typically assist with space planning, material selection, design presentations, and project coordination under the supervision of experienced designers. This role allows interns to develop their skills, build a portfolio, and gain industry knowledge. Internships may be paid or unpaid and can take place in design firms, architectural companies, or corporate design departments.

What do interior design interns do?

As an Interior Design Intern, you will likely assist with tasks such as preparing design presentations, sourcing materials, creating digital renderings, and supporting project documentation. You may also attend client meetings, conduct site visits, and collaborate with senior designers on active projects. Interns often work closely with multiple team members to learn the full scope of the design process from concept development to final installation. This hands-on experience provides valuable insight into the daily operations of a design firm and sets a strong foundation for future career growth.

What skills and qualifications are needed for an interior design internship?

To thrive in an Interior Design Internship, you should have a foundational understanding of design principles, space planning, and basic drafting, often supported by progress toward a degree in interior design or a related field. Familiarity with design software such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite is highly valued. Strong communication, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn make candidates stand out in collaborative environments. These competencies are vital for contributing effectively to design projects and adapting to the fast-paced nature of professional interior design teams.

What are the most commonly searched types of Interior Design Internships jobs in California?

The most popular types of Interior Design Internships jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Interior Design Internships jobs?

Cities in California with the most Interior Design Internships job openings:

Infographic showing various Interior Design Internships job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,007 per year, or $25 per hour.

COUPAR: Interior Design Assistant

COUPAR

San Francisco, CA

$25 - $28/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Job Description: Design Assistant Design Assistant The Design Assistant role at COUPAR is a key role within our organization. As the design assistant, you will be working closely with the design team to implement the project design in collaboration with the Principal and Lead/Managing designers. This role assists in all aspects of the design process from maintaining FF&E, developing schedules, processing work orders, developing client presentations, working in AutoCAD and administrative responsibilities.

Qualifications:

1 - 2 years of Interior Design internship or assistant level professional experience

Positive attitude with eagerness to grow both professionally and personally

A creative problem solver - Looks at problems as opportunities

Highly productive and organized with thorough attention to detail

Multitasking extraordinaire

Dependable and punctual

Effectively communicates with the team and vendors

Ability to work both as a team & independently, taking direction with minimal supervision

Strong administrative skills and a foundation in following processes and procedures

Professional demeanor and sound judgment

High EQ - Does not take things personally and is open to feedback

Ability to be coached and learn alternate ways of approaching issues

Degree in Interior Design or Interior Architecture a plus

Proficiency in AutoCAD, Adobe Photoshop/Illustrator, and MS Office is a plus

Proficient in any 3D rendering platforms and/or the ability to hand render is a plus

Knowledge of Quickbooks Online, Studio Designer or Basecamp is a plus

Having access to a vehicle is a plus Responsibilities:

Manage tasks within 2-3 projects simultaneously with an eye for detail

Maintain all project information in Basecamp with daily updates

Assist with presentation preparation through the use of Powerpoint

Gather detailed information and quotes for preparation of accurate design proposals

Create and prepare proposals for client submission

Assist Associate and Lead Designers with various design and administrative tasks related to all phases of high end interior design from initial planning through to project completion

Review project plans and understand project scope, completion schedules and other related documents

Develop AutoCAD plans, including but not limited to: floor plans, furniture plans, elevations, and reflected ceiling plans

Maintain up to date knowledge of products and materials available on the market

Maintain and develop vendor database and accounts

Assist with sample return, sample pulls and materials library organization

Assist Design Team with the following but not limited to: Studio Designer, Designer Link, Ivy, and Harvest time input and order tracking

Organize and maintain client FF&E binders

Interface with vendors via phone calls, emails, and shop visits to coordinate production and completion of orders

Ability to resolve project problems and respond appropriately to vendor concerns with tact and efficiency

Attendance or coordination of project site visit, vendor site measures, and furniture inspections

Maintain excellent organization of project files, samples, and orders

Track assigned tasks, appointments, and correspondence with detailed follow-through to reach completion

Coordinate and assist with onsite project installations, which may include picking up and returning supplies, managing supply inventory lists, and creating and managing deinstallation punch list

Proactively engage in the design process by managing up to Design Associate and Lead Designers

Accurately and thoroughly document and manage time per company guidelines, inputting into Quickbooks and client softwares by the communicated deadlines Hourly Pay Range $25-28/hr