Interior Designer Internship Jobs in Hackensack, NJ

OVERVIEW

CetraRuddy is an award-winning global architecture, planning and interior design firm driven by design excellence and the belief thatArchitecture Is Home.For three decades, the firm has led with a guiding principle that architecture and design mustengage incontext and enrich the human spirit, seeking opportunities to craft innovative solutions and lead clients on their journeys toward building a new legacy. The firm's portfolio of work is defined by crafted details, innovative use of materials and contextual sensitivity across various market sectors including residential, hospitality, educational, cultural, and commercial.

You collaborate closely with Senior Designers and project teams to execute design concepts, contributing to a
range of deliverables from precise drawings and renderings to client presentations and construction
documentation. Your growing confidence with design concepts, detailing, consultant coordination, and FF&E
selection allows you to support multiple project phases, from concept through installation.

You begin to take on a mentorship role with Junior Designers and Interns, sharing your knowledge while upholding
the firm's design standards. With increased ownership of your work, you're strengthening your ability to manage
project components independently, communicate clearly with stakeholders, and balance creative intent with
technical execution

This isa great opportunityfor those committed to design excellenceand
eagerto continue growth in a supportive and exciting environment. We offer a comprehensive benefits package, a hybrid optional working environment on Mondays andFridays,and opportunities for professional development within a collaborative team.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Support team, Lead Designer and Project Managers by developing design layouts and frameworks forprojects, including the preparation of drawings and specifications.
• Provide oversight and guidance to Junior Designers and Interns, fostering their development whilemaintaining project integrity.
• Create efficient space layouts that maximize functionality while ensuring comfort and accessibility for residents.
• Produce compelling design concepts, mood boards, and presentations to effectively convey ideas to clients.
• Develop and execute accurate drawings, renderings, and images for presentations, coordination, and construction phases.
• Collaborate with developers, architects, and clients to understand project objectives, budgets, and design preferences.
• Ensure all designs comply with local building codes, safety regulations, and accessibility standards, including a working knowledge of ADA requirements.
• Select and specify materials, finishes, fixtures, and furnishings that meet the aesthetic and functional goals of each project.
• Manage Construction Administration tasks such as reviewing submittals, responding to RFIs, tracking finish samples, participating on punch list walkthroughs and under the guidance of senior staff.
• Support the management of multiple projects by maintaining deadlines and fostering strong collaboration with team members and leadership.

SKILLS & REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor's degree in Interior Design or related field.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in an interior design firm, ideally supporting large-scale multifamily residential, adaptive reuse, and hospitality projects.
• Demonstrates a strong understanding of design principles, aesthetics, and industry-relevant technical knowledge.
• Has the ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple projects, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Collaborative with a can-do attitude and willingness to ask for help and provide guidance when needed.
• Applies strong written and verbal communication skills.
• A commitment to active participation in the studio culture and collaborative teamwork.

PROGRAMS & SOFTWARE

• Intermediate use of Revit, SketchUp, Enscape, Rhino, AutoCAD, and in a BIM environment.
• Advanced in Adobe Creative Cloud (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop) for professional grade production in presentations and graphics.
• Graphic design skills with intermediate Enscape rendering experience.
• Microsoft 365 environment (Excel, Word, Outlook, Microsoft Teams, SharePoint)
• Experience with collaborative tools such as Miro and other online whiteboarding platforms.
  

PAY RANGE:
The base salary for this position is estimated to range between $70,000.00-$90,000.00depending on experience, with opportunities for bonuses and a competitive benefits package.