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Interior Designer Intern Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Interior Designer Intern information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$10

$22

$41

How much do interior designer intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for interior designer intern in Seattle, WA is $22.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.39 and $24.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 Seattle, WA?

The most popular types of Interior Designer jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Interior Designer Intern jobs?

Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Interior Designer Intern job openings:

Infographic showing various Interior Designer Intern job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,868 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - Product Development Structure and Interior Systems

PACCAR Inc

Kirkland, WA • On-site

$90.40 - $141.80/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago


Paccar rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

45th of 494 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - Product Development Structure and Interior Systems

Company: PACCAR

Kenworth Truck Company

Kenworth Truck Company is the manufacturer of The World’s Best® heavy and medium duty trucks. Kenworth is an industry leader in providing fuel‑saving technology solutions that help increase fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. The company’s dedication to the green fleet includes aerodynamic trucks, compressed and liquefied natural gas trucks.

Requisition Summary

Do you have a passion for new product interior vehicle design? Do you want to work on industry‑leading products that are setting the bar for quality, industrial design, and customer ergonomics? Join a group of high‑performing professionals who pride themselves in developing innovative truck interiors. Kenworth design engineers focus on product development from conceptualization to implementation on the production floor. See your designs making a difference on the open highway!

Kenworth offers unique career advancement opportunities ranging from engineering design, manufacturing operations, product planning, marketing, and many other business functions.

Kenworth's Cab/Outerbody Department is seeking multiple Mechanical Design Engineers. Please note that there are multiple vacancies and review some of the following job functions below:

New Product Development Structure & Interior Systems/Sustaining Structures Job Functions / Responsibilities
  • Utilize Creo Parametric® 3D modeling software to create complex assemblies & drawings that meet structural, ergonomic, aesthetic, and quality goals
  • Work with industrial design groups to finalize styling intent surfaces and turn them into fully functional interior trim parts
  • Create rapid prototyped parts to quickly validate multiple design concepts
  • Apply creative thinking to design tasks and propose innovative approaches to standard work
  • Use Design for Six Sigma & engineering tools to validate designs – QFD, FMEA, DVP&R, GD&T, 1‑D Stacks, FEA, etc.
  • Manage implementation of product changes by tracking project schedule, budget, and functional requirements throughout the entire life of the project
  • Work with the PACCAR Technical Center and external organizations to validate your designs
  • Work closely with multiple PACCAR divisions and outside suppliers. (Engineering, Industrial Design, Ergonomics, Electrical, Manufacturing, Program Management, Quality, Tool Shops, Plant Assembly Line Operators, etc.)
  • Manage multiple priorities and goals simultaneously
  • Up to ~5‑10% travel
Outerbody Job Functions / Responsibilities
  • Aerodynamic product enhancements, warranty and cost reduction projects that add to the overall profitability of the organization
  • Participate in and/or lead the design and development of structures‑based projects in the Outerbody team
  • Utilize Creo Parametric to create optimized part and assembly models of moderate to complex designs requiring independent judgment
  • Work closely with the Industrial Design and Styling groups in the development of new or updated vehicle exteriors
  • Create rapid prototyped parts to quickly validate multiple design concepts
  • Employ Design for Six Sigma and engineering tools to validate designs: QFD, FMEA, DVP&R, GD&T
  • Work with the PACCAR Technical Center and external organizations to validate the designs through Finite Element Analysis, Computation Fluid Dynamics, and durability tests
  • Manage implementation of product changes by tracking project schedule, budget, and functional requirements throughout the entire life of the project
  • Work closely with multiple PACCAR divisions
  • Manage multiple priorities and goals simultaneously
  • Travel up to 10%
Qualifications & Skills
  • BSME or equivalent engineering degree required; EIT certification is a plus
  • 3‑5+ years of design experience required (previous industry intern experience is desired)
  • Extensive 3D modeling software experience (Creo Parametric® knowledge is a plus)
  • Knowledge of different fabrication methods - injection molded plastic, vacuum forming, soft‑trim, sheet metal, etc.
  • Passion and excitement for customer focused human centered design
  • Understanding in use of Design for Six Sigma and Six Sigma techniques.
  • Ability to perform in a lean, fast‑paced, results‑oriented environment, while managing multiple priorities is a must
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills with ability to present monthly status updates in front of engineering management teams
  • Competency in the use of personal computer software including project management tools, word processing, spreadsheets, and databases.
  • Willingness to learn and make use of new engineering processes and techniques and be resourceful in solving complex technical problems.
  • Past experience in product development and new product implementation necessary.
  • Ability to work in a team environment.
  • Candidates should have a willingness to grow personally and professionally and be results oriented.
Why work for PACCAR/Kenworth?

Global Fortune 500 Company with a wide array of growth and development opportunities

Work alongside experienced goal‑oriented colleagues recognized as experts in their fields

Support and/or design the commercial vehicles of the future with a focus on emerging technologies such as electric and autonomous trucks

Benefits

401k with up to a 5% company match

Fully funded pension plan that provides monthly benefits after retirement

Comprehensive paid time off – minimum of 10 paid vacation days (additional days are provided with additional seniority/years of service), 12 paid holidays, and sick time

Tuition reimbursement for continued education

Medical, dental, and vision plans for you and your family

Flexible spending accounts (FSA) and health savings account (HSA)

Paid short‑and long‑term disability programs

Life and accidental death and dismemberment insurance

EAP services include wellness plans, estate planning, financial counseling and more

Additional Job Board Information

The salary range for Senior Mechanical Design Engineer - Product Development Structure and Interior Systems is $90,400 – $141,800 annually. This position is also eligible for a holiday gift. Additionally, this role is eligible for the full range of benefit options listed above.

PACCAR is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veteran/Disability and E‑Verify Employer.

Nearest Major Market: Seattle

Nearest Secondary Market: Bellevue

Job Segment: Six Sigma, Lean Six Sigma, Industrial Design, Developer, Design Engineer, Management, Manufacturing, Technology, Engineering

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About Paccar

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

PACCAR, Inc. is a Fortune 500 company established in 1905 and is recognized as a global leader in the commercial vehicle, financial, and customer service fields. PACCAR is a global technology leader in the design, manufacture, and customer support of high-quality light-, medium- and heavy-duty trucks under its internationally recognized brands Kenworth, Peterbilt and DAF nameplates. PACCAR designs and manufactures advanced diesel engines and provides customized financial services, information technology and truck parts related to its principal business. Your next career move is waiting at PACCAR whether you want to design the transportation technology of tomorrow, support the staff functions of a dynamic, international leader, or build our excellent products and services. Join the PACCAR team today!

Industry

Motor vehicle manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Bellevue, WA, US

Year founded

1905

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