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Intermediate Interior Designer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Intermediate Interior Designer information

See Iowa salary details

$28.6K

$68.4K

$101.4K

How much do intermediate interior designer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for intermediate interior designer in Iowa is $68,425.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,500.00 and $78,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Intermediate Interior Designers?

Intermediate Interior Designers are professionals with several years of experience who work on the planning, design, and execution of interior spaces. They typically support senior designers and may manage smaller projects independently, handling tasks such as creating design concepts, preparing drawings, selecting materials, and coordinating with clients and contractors. Their role bridges the gap between junior designers, who focus more on support tasks, and senior designers, who oversee overall project direction. Intermediate designers often have a solid understanding of design principles, materials, codes, and project management. They play a vital role in ensuring that design projects are completed efficiently and meet client expectations.

What other careers can interior designers do?

Interior designers can transition into careers such as space planners, furniture designers, or project managers, utilizing their skills in design, space optimization, and client communication. They may also work in related fields like architecture, real estate development, or home staging, often requiring knowledge of design software and building codes.

What is the difference between Intermediate Interior Designer vs Junior Interior Designer?

AspectIntermediate Interior DesignerJunior Interior Designer
CredentialsTypically requires 2-4 years of experience, relevant certifications or degreesEntry-level, often recent graduates or with less than 2 years of experience
Work EnvironmentIndependently manages projects, collaborates with clients and vendorsAssists senior designers, supports project tasks, learning on the job
ResponsibilitiesDesign development, client communication, project coordinationDrafting, research, supporting design tasks

The Intermediate Interior Designer has more experience, greater responsibility, and handles projects more independently compared to a Junior Interior Designer, who is typically in an entry-level role supporting senior staff and gaining industry experience.

What is the 3 5 7 rule in interior design?

The 3-5-7 rule in interior design is a guideline for arranging objects and furniture to create balanced and visually appealing spaces, often involving grouping items in odd numbers like three, five, or seven. As an intermediate interior designer, applying this rule helps achieve harmony and focal points in a room's layout and decor. It encourages thoughtful placement and scale, enhancing the overall aesthetic and functionality of interior environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Intermediate Interior Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Intermediate Interior Designer, you need a solid background in design principles, space planning, and a relevant degree or diploma in interior design. Proficiency in design software such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite, along with knowledge of building codes and materials, is typically required. Strong communication, creativity, and project management skills help you collaborate effectively with clients, contractors, and team members. These skills ensure functional, aesthetically pleasing spaces that meet client needs and industry standards.

What is the 70 30 rule in interior design?

The 70/30 rule in interior design suggests that 70% of a space should be filled with neutral or subdued colors and elements, while 30% can feature bold accents or decorative items. As an interior designer, applying this rule helps create balanced and visually appealing environments by managing color schemes and focal points.

What is an intermediate interior designer?

An intermediate interior designer is a professional with several years of experience who can independently manage design projects, develop concepts, and coordinate with clients and contractors. They typically have proficiency in design software like AutoCAD or SketchUp and may hold relevant certifications or licenses. This role involves applying design principles, space planning, and material selection within project budgets and timelines.

How does an Intermediate Interior Designer typically collaborate with architects and other team members during a project?

Intermediate Interior Designers often work closely with architects, engineers, and contractors throughout a project's lifecycle. They participate in meetings to review design concepts, coordinate on technical requirements, and ensure that the interior elements align with overall architectural plans. Regular communication is essential for resolving design challenges, sourcing materials, and maintaining project timelines. This collaborative environment helps designers develop a deeper understanding of interdisciplinary processes, which is valuable for career progression.
What are the most commonly searched types of Interior Designer jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Interior Designer jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Intermediate Interior Designer jobs in Iowa? For Intermediate Interior Designer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Intermediate Interior Designer jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Intermediate Interior Designer job openings:
Infographic showing various Intermediate Interior Designer job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,425 per year, or $32.9 per hour.

Entry-Level Interior Designer /// Des Moines Studio

Slingshot Architecture

Des Moines, IA

$50K - $55K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Join the Slingers! Slingshot is seeking an emerging professional Interior Designer I (Interior Design Associate or Interior Designer 1) to join our passionate, purpose-driven studio in Des Moines. We're a small but mighty team of interior designers and architects dedicated to crafting meaningful, human-centered commercial spaces that elevate everyday life and strengthen Midwestern communities. Our work spans architecture, interiors, and urbanism — always with a focus on clarity, precision, and real impact.

As a teaching studio, we value team members who take ownership of their work, grow alongside talented colleagues, and contribute to collaborative excellence. In this role, you'll provide interior design assistance on projects under the direction of mid-to senior-level designers and architects, helping bring concepts to life through thoughtful development, documentation, and team support — with opportunities to build your skills and impact from concept through construction documentation.

What You'll Do

  • Work under the direction of mid-to senior-level interior designers and architects by providing design assistance with interior development.
  • Assist with graphic interior story development, including pulling imagery, generating mood boards, sketches, and drawings for concept development.
  • Document floor plans, ceiling plans, elevations, finish plans, and schedules for construction documentation.
  • Learn the SSA design process and project software, including ArchiCAD and SketchUp.
  • Assist the design team with maintaining the BIM library.
  • Support business development activities with finish boards, presentations, pulling together social media content, meeting note preparation, and more.
  • Assist in ordering samples for projects.
  • Attend client meetings and design critiques.
  • Maintain the interior design library and meet with manufacturer’s representatives to keep knowledge current.

Who We're Looking For: The ideal "Slinger" holds a Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Interior Design (minimum four-year degree) and is on the path to licensure with up to three years of industry experience. You thrive when you:

  • Are a self-starter who shares our drive for creating meaningful work in a collaborative environment and desires to be part of an enthusiastic and passionate team.
  • Excel in a fast-paced, small-team setting committed to exceeding expectations daily.
  • Demonstrate a strong design instinct, generous work approach, and clarity in communication.
  • Possess working knowledge of the application of color, materials, and aesthetic form.
  • Have exposure to design specifications and industry standards, including FF&E.
  • Are familiar with space planning methodology.
  • Bring basic sketching and rendering skills.
  • Have working knowledge of construction documentation and procedures.
  • Possess intermediate MS Office Suite skills and experience in Adobe Creative Suite.
  • Have strong verbal and written communication skills.

What We Offer

  • Average 40 hrs work week
  • Flexible Schedule with 9a-3p core hours
  • Health Insurance
  • Dental & Vision Insurance
  • Life Insurance, STD & LTD covered 100% for employee
  • Maternity Leave
  • 401k plan with Company Match
  • Monthly Gym Benefit
  • Volunteer Time Off
  • Professional Development Stipend
  • Leadership Involved In Day-to-Day
  • A Teaching Studio & Collaborative Environment
  • Relaxed Dress Code
  • Dog-Friendly Office
  • Beverages & Snacks
  • Quarterly Team Events
  • Annual Team Celebration

This position is available in our Des Moines studio

*TO BE CONSIDERED, MUST SUBMIT A CURRENT PORTFOLIO*
If you're excited to bring your emerging design talent and passion for interiors to vibrant, community-focused projects in a studio that values personal growth, bold ideas, collaboration, and meaningful impact — we want to meet you!