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Interior Designer Intern Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

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Interior Designer Intern information

What does an interior designer intern do?

An Interior Designer Intern assists professional interior designers with various tasks such as creating design concepts, selecting materials and finishes, preparing drawings and presentations, and conducting site visits. They often help with administrative duties, client communication, and research to support the design process. The internship provides hands-on experience and exposure to real-world design projects, which helps interns develop their skills and understanding of the industry.

What types of projects and tasks can an interior designer intern expect to work on during their internship?

As an Interior Designer Intern, you can expect to be involved in a variety of tasks that support the design team, such as assisting with space planning, preparing presentation boards, sourcing materials and furnishings, and creating digital renderings or CAD drawings. Interns often participate in client meetings, help with site visits, and contribute to project documentation. This hands-on experience provides valuable exposure to the design process, teamwork, and communication with clients and vendors, which are key for developing your skills and understanding the industry's workflow.

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

To thrive as an Interior Designer Intern, you need a foundational understanding of design principles, spatial planning, and proficiency in design software, typically supported by academic coursework or a related degree. Familiarity with tools like AutoCAD, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite, and presentation platforms is highly valued. Strong communication, creativity, and attention to detail help interns collaborate with teams and convey ideas effectively. These skills and qualities are crucial for supporting design projects, meeting client needs, and gaining practical experience in a competitive industry.

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

AspectInterior Designer InternInterior Designer
CredentialsTypically pursuing or recently completed relevant education, may have internship or entry-level certificationsProfessional certification or licensing often required, such as NCIDQ
Work EnvironmentAssist in design projects, support senior designers, work in design firms or studiosLead projects, client consultations, manage design process independently or with team
Employer & Industry UsageInternship positions in architecture and interior design firms, educational settingsFull-time employment in interior design firms, architecture companies, or related industries

The main difference is experience level and responsibility. An Interior Designer Intern is typically a student or recent graduate gaining practical experience, while an Interior Designer is a licensed professional managing projects and clients independently.

Are there internships for interior designer interns?

Yes, internships for interior designer interns are available at architecture firms, design studios, and retail companies. These internships typically involve assisting with space planning, drafting, and project research, and may require familiarity with design software like AutoCAD or SketchUp. They provide practical experience and often serve as a pathway to full-time roles in interior design.

How to get into interior designer intern with no experience?

To become an interior designer intern with no experience, focus on building a portfolio through personal projects or volunteering, and learn design software like AutoCAD or SketchUp. Pursuing relevant coursework or certifications can also improve your chances, and applying to internships that accept beginners can provide valuable industry exposure.

What are the most commonly searched types of Interior Designer jobs in Tennessee?

The most popular types of Interior Designer jobs in Tennessee are:

Interior Designer Intern jobs near you
Infographic showing various Interior Designer Intern job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Project Coordinator - Interior Design - Health Market

Gresham Smith

Nashville, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

At Gresham Smith, we call it Genuine Ingenuity. Our culture is the cornerstone of who we are, and our people are at the heart of everything we do. United by our Core Purpose—to plan, design, and consult to create healthy and thriving communities—we deliver innovative solutions for life’s essential infrastructure and institutions.

What sets us apart is our dedication to care for our people, our clients, and the places we call home. We are more than a team of professionals—we’re a community built on commitment, integrity, respect, and teamwork.

Why Gresham Smith?

When you join Gresham Smith, you’re joining a place where you can connect and thrive. Our employees consistently recognize us as a Best Place to Work because we go above and beyond to ensure that you feel valued, supported, and empowered.

About You

We're looking for someone who has:

  • Bachelor's degree in Interior Design/Architecture from an accredited university
  • Pursuing Certification.
  •  Served in an intern role for 1 to 3 terms preferred.
  • Strong concept design skills.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Strong organizational and time management skills.
  • Demonstrated competency using Revit, AutoCAD, Rhino, Photoshop, Sketch-up, Lumion, Enscape, and/or other 3D rendering software programs.
  • LEED accreditation and/or EDAC certification is a plus.

* You must include a portfolio of work samples along with a resume/CV in your online application.

About the Role

As a Project Coordinator - Interior Design, you will:

Responsibilities:

  • Learn the skills to be a successful entry level professional and gain experience under the supervision of practicing NCIDQ-certified interior designers.
  • Gain experience and knowledge to earn the credits to pass the NCIDQ examination and become NCIDQ certified.
  • Collaborate with team members through all phases of the design process, from programming and design concept through completion of construction documents.
  • Engage in Construction Administration, including job site visits
  • Ensure client satisfaction by learning and applying quality control processes to your work.

    Join Us

    If you’re excited to bring your talents to a collaborative, people-first environment where you can make an impact while growing your career, we’d love to hear from you.

    Here’s what you can expect:

    Professional Growth: In-house Learning, Tuition Reimbursement, Licensure Support, Professional Organization Engagement.

    Culture that Cares: 93% of employees say they feel cared for, and 96% are confident in our future success.

    Competitive Benefits:

    • Flexible Schedules & Generous PTO
    • Healthcare (Medical, Dental, Vision, Wellness Programs)
    • 401(k) with Company Match
    • Short- & Long-term Disability, Paid Life & AD&D
    • Supplemental, Critical Care, Pet, Legal & ID Theft Insurance
    • Family Planning and Parental Leave
    • Mass/Public Transit Program
    • Telemedicine and Employee Assistance Program

    Gresham Smith is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate. Everyone is invited to apply!

    GRESHAM SMITH does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters, headhunters, search firms, or agencies. No referral or recruiter fees will be paid without a fully executed GRESHAM PLACEMENT SERVICES AGREEMENT (PSA) in advance. Submissions made without a PSA may be recruited and hired by GRESHAM SMITH with no financial obligation to the submitting party. Any such unsolicited resumes or candidate information sent to hiring managers or any employee becomes the property of GRESHAM SMITH.

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