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Interior Design Jobs in Waterloo, IA (NOW HIRING)

Sales Inspector

Cedar Falls, IA · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Oversee accounts, perform on-site inspections, identify needs, and design service plans that ... Conduct thorough interior and exterior inspections; full paid training provided. * Delivering ...

Interior Design information

See Waterloo, IA salary details

$13

$24

$40

How much do interior design jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for interior design in Waterloo, IA is $24.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.66 and $27.98 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is interior design?

Interior design is the art and science of enhancing the interiors of a space to create a more aesthetically pleasing and functional environment. Interior designers work with clients to plan layouts, select color schemes, furniture, lighting, and decorative items. They consider factors such as space planning, safety, and building codes. The goal is to optimize the use of space while reflecting the client's tastes and needs. Interior designers work in residential, commercial, and hospitality settings.

How to get a job in interior design?

The first step in getting a job in interior design is a formal education. You should earn a bachelor’s degree in interior design to gain the skills needed to launch your career. After your education, you should seek out an apprenticeship with an experienced designer. This gives you an opportunity to apply your education to real-world design scenarios. While looking for an internship, you can start doing designs for your own home or even offer to do this for family and friends. This allows you to build a portfolio that you can use to get a job. Any design project you can complete is a major plus to your career opportunities.

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

To thrive as an Interior Designer, you need a solid background in design principles, spatial planning, and a relevant degree such as a BFA or BA in Interior Design. Proficiency in design software like AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite, as well as certifications like NCIDQ, are highly valued. Creativity, strong communication, and project management skills help you interpret client visions and collaborate with contractors. These abilities ensure you can deliver functional, aesthetically pleasing spaces that meet client needs and industry standards.

What are some common challenges interior designers face when working on client projects?

Interior designers often encounter challenges such as balancing client preferences with functional and structural limitations, managing budgets, and coordinating with contractors or vendors to ensure timely project completion. Effective communication is key, as designers must interpret client visions while navigating logistical constraints and unexpected issues during implementation. Adapting to changes and problem-solving on the spot are essential skills for success in this dynamic role.

What is the difference between Interior Design vs Interior Architecture?

AspectInterior DesignInterior Architecture
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in interior design or related field, with certification or licensing depending on locationOften requires a degree in interior architecture or architecture, with licensing or registration in some regions
Work EnvironmentDesigning interior spaces, selecting furnishings, and decoratingInvolves structural modifications, space planning, and integrating architectural elements
Industry UsageUsed by residential, commercial, and hospitality sectors for aesthetic and functional interior spacesUsed in renovation, remodeling, and new construction projects requiring structural changes

Interior Design focuses on aesthetics, furnishings, and decorating interior spaces, while Interior Architecture involves structural planning and modifications. Both roles require related credentials and often work together, but their core responsibilities differ in scope and technical complexity.

Is it hard to get a job as an interior designer?

Getting a job as an interior designer can be competitive and often requires a relevant degree, a strong portfolio, and proficiency with design software. Building experience through internships or entry-level positions can improve employment prospects in this field.

Is there still demand for interior designers?

Interior designers continue to be in demand as homeowners and businesses seek professional help for space planning, renovation, and aesthetic improvements. The industry is evolving with increased use of design software and sustainable materials, and job opportunities are available in residential, commercial, and hospitality sectors.

What jobs can you do in interior design?

In interior design, common jobs include residential designer, commercial designer, space planner, and furniture designer. These roles involve creating functional and aesthetic interior spaces, often requiring skills in CAD software, knowledge of building codes, and client communication. Opportunities can be found in design firms, architecture companies, or freelance work.

What are the most commonly searched types of Interior Design jobs in Waterloo, IA?

The most popular types of Interior Design jobs in Waterloo, IA are:

What are popular job titles related to Interior Design jobs in Waterloo, IA?

For Interior Design jobs in Waterloo, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Waterloo, IA are hiring for Interior Design jobs?

Cities near Waterloo, IA with the most Interior Design job openings:

Infographic showing various Interior Design job openings in Waterloo, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 20% Internship, and 80% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,962 per year, or $25 per hour.

Residential High Value Insurance Appraiser - Cedar Falls, IA

exl

Cedar Falls, IA

Full-time, Contractor

Re-posted 7 days ago


ExlService Holdings rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

135th of 496 rated business services


Job description

The Company

Commercial and personal line insurance carriers rely on EXL as a key business partner through our Castle High Value and EXL Risk Control service offerings. We offer a variety of field appraisal, inspection and risk control services to support our clients’ underwriting processes. EXL delivers industry-leading professionalism, quality and turn-around time, and our innovative solutions help our clients keep ahead of the competition. Castle High Value is the premier provider of high value residential insurance surveys to the insurance industry
nationwide. https://www.exlservice.com/industries/insurance/castle-high-value

The Position

Castle High Value is looking for self-directed independent contractors to work from their own home or office and service both virtual and physical survey/inspection assignments in the Cedar Falls area and other locations within a territory of approximately a 100-mile radius.

Experience in real estate, insurance, inspection, construction or appraising experience is a plus, but all interested candidates are encouraged to submit their qualifications. A 15 hour online training course can get you certified. Fees are negotiable depending on experience and the unique aspects of selected jobs.

You will be responsible to schedule and conduct both site-based and virtual High Value Home property surveys that will be used for homeowners’ insurance purposes. This involves coordinating and completing surveys within your own schedule, managing work assignments you accept, and solid computer skills as all reports are web-based and completed online.

If you are looking for flexibility, the ability to work independently, and have an interest in real-estate, construction, or interior design, then this might be the right opportunity for you.

More on the Job Responsibilities

Primary Requirements:

  • Professionally interact over the phone, via email, and in-person
    with homeowners and insurance agents
  • Conduct on-site and/or virtual property surveys on high value
    homes as per customer specific guidelines and procedures
  • Identify and document the construction materials/characteristics
    and unique features of the home
  • Obtain measurements of the home and other structures on the
    property
  • Generate an estimated replacement value of the home, and identify
    major hazards
  • Communicate the information gathered during on-site inspection in
    the provided web-based client requested forms accessed through the Castle
    website

Tools or Items You Must Provide:

  • Digital camera
  • Windows based computer (not a Mac)
  • High speed internet access
  • Reliable vehicle
  • Measuring device such as: laser, 100 ft. tape, or measuring wheel
  • Auto and General Liability Insurance

What ExlService Holdings employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

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