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Interior Designer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

To join the team as an Interior Designer, you should: * Understand and consistently execute all aspects of the design process and project complexities to proactively contribute to the overall success ...

Interior Designer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$70K - $95K/yr

Interior Designer (in-person position) HOW TO APPLY: Fill out the form on our company career site under each job posting. Essential Duties and Responsibilities * Success in this position is dependent ...

Interior Designer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

We are looking for a talented, forward-thinking Interior Designer to join our San Diego studio. In this role, you will work on sophisticated commercial and corporate projects while shaping spaces ...

Interior Designer

West Covina, CA · On-site

$70K - $73K/yr

Job Summary MINISO USA is seeking a creative and detail-oriented Interior Designer to support the design, planning, and execution of new store openings, remodels, and special retail projects across ...

Interior Designer

West Covina, CA · On-site

$70K - $73K/yr

Job Summary MINISO USA is seeking a creative and detail-oriented Interior Designer to support the design, planning, and execution of new store openings, remodels, and special retail projects across ...

Interior Designer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

If you are an experienced designer with a keen eye for detail and a desire to mentor and grow ... Exhibit advanced understanding and independent development of interior design concepts and ...

Description Delawie, A LEO A DALY studio, is seeking an experienced and talented Interior Designer to join our team. The successful candidate will contribute to inspirational design within an ...

Interior Designer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$68K - $86K/yr

We're currently seeking an Interior Designer to join our dynamic San Jose studio. You'll be part of a culture that values deep collaboration, technical excellence, and continual growth. Examples of ...

Interior Designer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$125K - $145K/yr

Develop space plans and interior architectural layouts; and select furnishings, equipment, and ... designs for products required by the District and to solicit best value products. * Prepare ...

Interior Designer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

We are looking for a talented, forward-thinking Interior Designer to join our San Francisco office. In this role, you will work on sophisticated commercial and corporate projects while shaping spaces ...

Interior Designer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$75K - $115K/yr

Job Type Full-time Description Delawie, A LEO A DALY studio, is seeking an experienced and talented Interior Designer to join our team. The successful candidate will contribute to inspirational ...

Interior Designer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

We are looking for a talented, forward-thinking Interior Designer to join our San Francisco office. In this role, you will work on sophisticated commercial and corporate projects while shaping spaces ...

Interior Designer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

If you are an experienced designer with a keen eye for detail and a desire to mentor and grow ... Exhibit advanced understanding and independent development of interior design concepts and ...

Interior Designer

San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site +1

$85K - $105K/yr

Overview Cairn Collaborative Design-Build's Interior Designer is responsible for guiding residential clients through the interior design process from concept through execution in close coordination ...

Interior Designer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$60K/yr

Multitask designing, mentoring and project management of designated design business. * Present to ... Interior Design degree or equivalent. * 2 - 4 years interior design experience. * House call and ...

Showing results 41-60

Interior Designer information

See California salary details

$30.1K

$71.9K

$106.6K

How much do interior designer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for interior designer in California is $71,895.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,200.00 and $81,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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, space planning, and a relevant degree or certification in interior design. Familiarity with industry-standard software like AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite, as well as knowledge of building codes and materials, is typically required. Creativity, communication, and project management skills are essential soft skills that help deliver client-centered solutions and manage timelines. These abilities ensure functional, aesthetically pleasing spaces that meet client needs while adhering to technical standards.

What are some common challenges interior designers face when working with clients, and how can they be addressed?

Interior designers often encounter challenges such as managing client expectations, balancing budgets, and incorporating personal tastes while maintaining design integrity. Effective communication is key—clarifying the project scope early on and providing visual aids like mood boards or 3D renderings can help align visions. Additionally, being transparent about costs and timelines helps build trust and ensures smoother project execution. Collaborating closely with clients and other professionals, such as contractors and architects, is essential for overcoming obstacles and delivering successful results.

What is the difference between Interior Designer vs Interior Decorator?

AspectInterior DesignerInterior Decorator
CredentialsOften requires a degree or certification in interior designNo formal certification typically required
Work EnvironmentInvolves space planning, layout, and design developmentFocuses on decorating and aesthetic enhancements
Employer & Industry UsageEmployed by design firms, architecture firms, or independentlyUsually hired by homeowners or clients for decorating projects
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for design scope and qualificationsCompared for decorating style and aesthetic choices

Interior designers and interior decorators both work to improve interior spaces, but interior designers typically have formal education and focus on space planning, layout, and functional design. Interior decorators mainly concentrate on decorating, color schemes, and furnishings. Understanding these differences helps clients choose the right professional for their project needs.

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

Getting a job as an interior designer can be competitive, especially without experience or a relevant degree. Building a strong portfolio, gaining internships, and obtaining certification such as the NCIDQ can improve employment prospects. Entry-level positions may be easier to secure with relevant skills and networking.

What do you do as an interior designer?

An interior designer plans and creates functional, safe, and aesthetically pleasing indoor spaces. They collaborate with clients to determine needs, develop design concepts, select materials and furnishings, and often use design software to visualize projects. The role requires knowledge of building codes, space planning, and often a relevant certification or degree.

What jobs can you do in interior design?

Interior designers can work in residential, commercial, hospitality, or retail spaces, creating functional and aesthetic environments. They may specialize in areas such as space planning, color consultation, or sustainable design, often using tools like CAD software. Job roles include residential designer, commercial designer, set designer, and design consultant, with opportunities in firms, freelance work, or corporate settings.

What kind of jobs can an interior designer get?

Interior designers can work in residential, commercial, hospitality, healthcare, and retail environments, creating functional and aesthetic spaces. They may work for design firms, architecture firms, or as independent consultants, often using tools like CAD software and requiring knowledge of building codes and client management. Job roles include design consultant, space planner, project manager, and furniture specialist.

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Interior Designer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Interior Designer job openings:

Infographic showing various Interior Designer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 64% Full Time, and 36% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $71,895 per year, or $34.6 per hour.

$103K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

To join the team as an Interior Designer, you should:
  • Understand and consistently execute all aspects of the design process and project complexities to proactively contribute to the overall success of the team while adhering to firm and project goals and standards of excellence in interior design, execution, and living design.
  • Develop and coordinate detailed design concepts with ability to develop functional requirements and project-design criteria.
  • Demonstrate understanding of and leadership in the architectural design process and integration of standalone interiors projects and design concepts.
  • Facilitate interior design efforts and project teams including design direction and client engagement.
  • Participate in marketing efforts and may lead design presentations to prospective clients.
  • Coordinate integration of basic engineering systems into the overall project design.
  • Review work for accuracy, omissions, legibility, and for document compliance in accordance with the Project Delivery Manual.
  • Participate and collaborate in design reviews, charettes, and pin-ups.
  • Demonstrate strong and effective communication and direction which inspires high team performance and design ideas.
  • Mentor staff.
  • Coordinate effectively with clients, partners, and consultants throughout the schematic and design development phases.
 
High-level Summary of Critical, Baseline Technical Skills and Certifications
Proficiencies
  • BIM
  • Building codes and guidelines as applicable (ADA, FGI, etc.)
  • Programming, planning, and site analysis
  • Preliminary design studies
  • Contract documents
  • Field observations and measurements
  • Life safety requirements
  • Furniture and interior product specifications
  • Furniture bid packages
  • Construction contract administration
  • Cost estimates and calculations
  • Accessibility and zoning analysis
  • Documentation of Living Design data, including material health
Software
  • Advanced knowledge of 2D/3D production software
  • Advanced Revit
  • Conceptual modeling tools such as Rhino and Grasshopper
  • Microsoft Office / Adobe Suite
  • Visualization tools such as Enscape and VRay
  • Presentation tools such as InDesign and Photoshop
  • Environmental Analysis software such Ladybug and Climate Studio
Licensure/Certifications/Education/Experience
  • LEED GA within 6 months of hire
  • Professional Accreditation in one area of Living Design that interests you: LEED AP with Specialty, BREEAM AP, WELL AP, SITES AP, Passive House Institute Certified Passive House Consultant/Designer CPHC/CPHD, or ILFI Living Future Accreditation
  • Professional interiors licensure preferred, not required
  • Bachelor's degree in interiors, architecture or, related discipline required
  • 8-10+ years of Interior Design experience 

What You'll Get

Salary range: $103,500–$115,000, commensurate with experience, education and skillset.

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) retirement plan and paid time off
  • Professional development stipend and dedicated continuing education time
  • Performance-based bonuses
  • Access to firmwide affinity groups and leadership development programs
  • Studio initiatives and events; a team that actually likes each other

Our Commitment

Our culture is grounded in a firmwide commitment to Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) — not as a tagline, but as how we hire, promote, and build teams. We conduct annual pay equity audits and train all managers on pay practices. We believe inclusion drives creativity.

How to Apply

Submit a resume and a compact, representative portfolio (no larger than 4MB). Show us what you've led, not just what you've touched.

Perkins&Will is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, genetic information, marital status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.

Pay Transparency: We are committed to pay equity. Compensation decisions are based on qualifications, skillset, and experience. Employees may discuss their own compensation without fear of retaliation. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)

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