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Junior Interior Design Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA (NOW HIRING)

About the Role We're seeking a Junior Associate Lighting Designer to join our team and contribute ... Bachelor's degree in Lighting Design, Architecture, Interior Design, or Engineering (or equivalent ...

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Junior Interior Design information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$33.9K

$62K

$94K

How much do junior interior design jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior interior design in Santa Rosa, CA is $61,989.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,700.00 and $71,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a junior interior designer?

To thrive as a Junior Interior Designer, you need a solid background in design principles, spatial planning, and a relevant degree or diploma in interior design or a related field. Familiarity with design software like AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite is commonly required. Strong communication, creativity, and attention to detail are crucial soft skills for collaborating with clients and senior designers. These skills ensure that design concepts are effectively communicated and executed, resulting in successful project outcomes.

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

AspectJunior Interior DesignInterior Designer
CredentialsAssociate's or Bachelor's in Interior Design, entry-level certificationBachelor's degree, professional certification (e.g., NCIDQ)
Work EnvironmentAssists senior designers, supports project tasksLeads projects, interacts directly with clients
ResponsibilitiesPrepares drawings, research materials, supports design developmentCreates design concepts, manages client communication, oversees project execution

Junior Interior Design roles typically require foundational education and support tasks within interior design projects. Interior Designers have more experience, responsibilities, and client interaction. The junior role is a stepping stone toward becoming a fully licensed Interior Designer.

What do junior interior designers do?

As a Junior Interior Designer, you’ll typically assist senior designers with design development, sourcing materials, preparing presentations, and drafting floor plans or mood boards. Your daily work may include site visits, measuring spaces, and communicating with vendors or clients under supervision. While you may not lead projects initially, you’ll have opportunities to contribute creative ideas, gain exposure to various design phases, and develop technical skills, all within a collaborative team setting. This hands-on experience is invaluable for building your portfolio and progressing toward more independent roles in the future.

What is a junior interior designer?

Junior interior designers are entry-level professionals who assist senior designers in creating functional and aesthetically pleasing interior spaces. Their responsibilities often include preparing design presentations, sourcing materials, creating mood boards, and drafting floor plans or layouts. They work under supervision, gaining practical experience while developing their technical and creative skills. Junior interior designers usually have a relevant degree or diploma and a keen eye for detail, organization, and design trends.
What are the most commonly searched types of Interior Design jobs in Santa Rosa, CA? The most popular types of Interior Design jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:
What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Junior Interior Design jobs? Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Junior Interior Design job openings:
Infographic showing various Junior Interior Design job openings in Santa Rosa, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, and 29% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $61,989 per year, or $29.8 per hour.

$71K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

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Job description

About the Role

We're seeking a Junior Associate Lighting Designer to join our team and contribute to sophisticated lighting designs across multiple concurrent projects. Working under the direction of the Principal and our Associate Lighting Designers, you'll be instrumental in bringing our lighting visions to life—from concept to completion. This position offers significant growth potential for someone who embodies our values and demonstrates quick learning and initiative.

What You'll Do

  • Design and revise lighting layouts and specifications in AutoCAD, ensuring technical precision and design intent

  • Collaborate with architects, interior designers, and construction teams to integrate lighting seamlessly into project vision

  • Research lighting products, develop manufacturer relationships, and stay current on innovative solutions

  • Create fixture specifications, cut sheets, and preliminary control system layouts

  • Manage multiple plan sets simultaneously while meeting project deadlines and tracking time accurately

  • Participate in project meetings, site visits, and evening focusing sessions

What You Bring

Required:

  • Bachelor's degree in Lighting Design, Architecture, Interior Design, or Engineering (or equivalent experience)

  • Proficiency in AutoCAD, Bluebeam, and Microsoft Office Suite

  • Ability to use discretion and independent judgment

  • Ability to work collaboratively with both design and operations teams

  • Excellent time management and ability to prioritize across multiple projects

  • Ability to lift 25 pounds

  • Valid driver's license with a clean driving record

  • Ability to climb and perform work while on ladders and/or scaffolding

Preferred:

  • Knowledge of residential or commercial lighting products and controls

  • Experience with Revit, AGi32, and/or Photoshop

  • Portfolio demonstrating lighting design work or related projects

Experience Level: Entry-level to 5 years (recent graduates with relevant degrees encouraged to apply)

What We Offer

  • Competitive salary: $71,000 - $95,000 annually based on skills and experience

  • 100% employer-paid medical, dental and life insurance for employee

  • 401(k) plan (after 1 year of employment)

  • 12 days paid vacation + 5 days paid sick time

  • Professional development opportunities

  • Twice-monthly office lunches and chair massage

  • Quarterly wellness reimbursement

  • Opportunity to work on high-profile residential and hospitality projects

  • Mentorship in a collaborative studio environment with clear advancement path