Interior Designer Jobs in Rutherford, NJ (NOW HIRING)

Interior Designer

Location: New York City

Experience Required: 5+ years Interior Design or Architecture (High-End Residential Preferred)

Project Type: High-End Residential Renovations

About Chapter

Chapter is a design-build company specializing in high-end residential renovations across New York City, Miami, New Jersey, Westchester, and Connecticut.

We bring architecture, design, construction, and project management together under one integrated team to create a more seamless renovation experience for homeowners.

Our focus is not simply designing beautiful spaces. It's delivering exceptional projects through creativity, communication, accountability, and execution.

The Role

We are hiring an Interior Designer to lead residential renovation projects from concept development through construction execution.

This role combines creative design, technical documentation, material sourcing, and client-facing collaboration. You will work directly with homeowners, Project Managers, vendors, and consultants to transform client goals into beautiful, functional spaces while ensuring design intent is carried through every stage of the project.

The ideal candidate has strong design instincts, excellent communication skills, and experience working within high-end residential environments.

What You'll Own

Design Development

• Create schematic design concepts, mood boards, color palettes, and finish selections
• Develop creative solutions that align with client goals, lifestyle, and project budgets
• Translate client vision into cohesive and buildable design concepts

Material & Product Selection

• Source finishes, fixtures, lighting, appliances, cabinetry, and decorative elements
• Research products and identify solutions that balance aesthetics, performance, and budget
• Coordinate samples, approvals, and specification packages

Client Collaboration

• Guide homeowners through the design process from concept through construction
• Lead design discussions and help clients make informed decisions
• Present design concepts, material selections, and recommendations
• Build trust and maintain strong client relationships throughout the project lifecycle

Design Presentations

• Prepare and deliver compelling client presentations
• Produce 2D and 3D visualizations to effectively communicate design intent
• Present design rationale and recommendations clearly and confidently

Vendor & Consultant Coordination

• Coordinate with vendors, manufacturers, showrooms, and sales representatives
• Obtain pricing, lead times, specifications, and product information
• Support procurement efforts and ensure selections align with project requirements

Technical Documentation

• Produce detailed drawings, specifications, and project documentation
• Develop construction-ready design packages
• Coordinate with Project Managers and construction teams to ensure accurate execution
• Maintain organized project records and documentation

Technology & AI

• Comfortable using AI tools (ChatGPT, Claude, Copilot, or equivalent) as a real part of daily work — not occasionally, and not as a novelty
• Curious and open-minded approach to emerging technology; sees AI as a multiplier rather than a threat
• Strong software proficiency and general computer literacy; picks up new platforms quickly without hand-holding
• Organized in digital environments — files, communications, and workflows managed clearly and consistently

High-Touch Client Service

A significant part of this role is managing homeowner relationships.

You will be expected to build trust, communicate proactively, manage expectations, navigate feedback, and provide a polished client experience throughout the renovation process.

Success in this role requires both strong design skills and strong client management skills.

What Matters

• You can balance creativity with practical execution
• You communicate clearly with clients, vendors, Project Managers, and contractors
• You are highly organized and able to manage multiple projects simultaneously
• You maintain attention to detail while moving projects forward efficiently
• You are comfortable presenting ideas and guiding clients through decisions
• You understand luxury residential expectations and service standards
• You take ownership of outcomes and follow through on commitments

Qualifications

• 5+ years of professional Interior Design or Architecture experience
• High-end residential experience strongly preferred
• Proficiency in Revit is required
• Strong understanding of residential construction and renovation processes
• Experience creating design presentations, technical drawings, and construction documentation
• Excellent design sensibility and knowledge of current design trends
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously
• Experience working directly with clients in a professional service environment

Preferred

• Interior Design or Architecture degree
• Experience working in design-build environments
• Knowledge of NYC residential construction and renovation projects
• Experience coordinating with contractors, consultants, and vendors
• Experience sourcing luxury materials, finishes, and furnishings

Why Join Chapter

• Work on high-end residential projects throughout the NYC market
• Collaborate closely with architecture, design, and construction teams
• High level of ownership and creative influence
• Direct exposure to leadership and decision-making
• Opportunity to grow within a rapidly scaling design-build company
• Collaborative environment focused on design excellence and exceptional client experience

Benefits

• Commuter benefits
• 15 days PTO annually, increasing with tenure
• 5 paid sick days annually
• 11 paid company holidays
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Chapter pays 75% of employee health insurance premiums
• 401(k) retirement plan