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Restaurant Interior Design Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Consistently voted as one of the top three most admired firms in hospitality interior design, you'll be working on conceptually driven projects which include restaurants, bars, hotels, and multi ...

Consistently voted as one of the top three most admired firms in hospitality interior design, you'll be working on conceptually driven projects which include restaurants, bars, hotels, and multi ...

Consistently voted as one of the top three most admired firms in hospitality interior design, you'll be working on conceptually driven projects which include restaurants, bars, hotels, and multi ...

Own the interior design point of view for the brand - including space planning, materials, finishes, furniture, fixtures, lighting, and equipment - ensuring every restaurant delivers a distinctive ...

Own the interior design point of view for the brand - including space planning, materials, finishes, furniture, fixtures, lighting, and equipment - ensuring every restaurant delivers a distinctive ...

BIM Manager

San Jose, CA · On-site

$130K - $160K/yr

We deliver commercial architecture and interior design across corporate office, retail, restaurant, industrial, and medical sectors -- serving local startups through Fortune 500 and Top 10 technology ...

BIM Manager

San Jose, CA · On-site

$130K - $160K/yr

We deliver commercial architecture and interior design across corporate office, retail, restaurant, industrial, and medical sectors -- serving local startups through Fortune 500 and Top 10 technology ...

BIM Manager

San Jose, CA · On-site

$130K - $160K/yr

We deliver commercial architecture and interior design across corporate office, retail, restaurant, industrial, and medical sectors -- serving local startups through Fortune 500 and Top 10 technology ...

Studio BANAA is a San Francisco-based architecture and interior design studio working primarily on hospitality projects (cafes, restaurants, and wellness spaces) alongside community and non-profit ...

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Restaurant Interior Design information

See California salary details

$13

$25

$40

How much do restaurant interior design jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for restaurant interior design in California is $25.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $27.98 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is restaurant interior design?

Restaurant interior design is the process of planning and creating the visual and functional layout of a restaurant’s interior space. It involves selecting color schemes, furniture, lighting, materials, and décor to create a welcoming atmosphere that enhances the guest dining experience. Good interior design not only reflects the restaurant’s brand and concept but also maximizes comfort and efficiency for both customers and staff. Designers must consider factors like space utilization, acoustics, lighting, and accessibility to ensure the environment is both attractive and practical.

What are some common challenges faced by restaurant interior designers when balancing aesthetics with functional requirements?

Restaurant interior designers often encounter the challenge of creating visually appealing spaces that also meet practical needs such as efficient workflow, durability, and safety. For example, selecting materials that are both stylish and easy to clean, or designing layouts that maximize seating without compromising comfort and accessibility. Collaborating closely with restaurant owners, chefs, and contractors is essential to ensure the final design supports the restaurant’s brand while adhering to building codes and operational requirements. Flexibility and strong problem-solving skills are key to finding creative solutions that address both form and function.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a restaurant interior designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Restaurant Interior Designer, you need a strong background in interior design principles, spatial planning, and knowledge of building codes, typically supported by a degree in interior design or architecture. Proficiency with design software such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite, along with familiarity with lighting, materials, and furniture sourcing, is essential. Creativity, attention to detail, and excellent communication skills help designers collaborate with clients, contractors, and vendors to bring unique concepts to life. These skills and qualities ensure that restaurant spaces are both aesthetically pleasing and functional, enhancing customer experience and supporting the brand’s identity.

What is the difference between Restaurant Interior Design vs Restaurant Interior Architect?

AspectRestaurant Interior DesignRestaurant Interior Architect
CredentialsDesign degree, portfolio, possibly certification in interior designArchitecture degree, licensing, and certification in architecture
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, client sites, renovation projectsArchitectural firms, construction sites, design consultations
Industry UsageFocuses on aesthetics, layout, and ambianceFocuses on structural integrity, building codes, and spatial planning

While both roles work within the restaurant industry, Restaurant Interior Design primarily emphasizes aesthetics, ambiance, and interior layout, whereas Restaurant Interior Architect involves structural planning, building codes, and architectural integrity. Understanding these differences helps clients choose the right professional for their project needs.

What cities in California are hiring for Restaurant Interior Design jobs?

Cities in California with the most Restaurant Interior Design job openings:

Infographic showing various Restaurant Interior Design job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,007 per year, or $25 per hour.

SENIOR INTERIOR DESIGNER

AvroKO

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Join our San Francisco studio and be a part of a global network of studios spanning four cities (New York, Bangkok, San Francisco and London). Consistently voted as one of the top three most admired firms in hospitality interior design, you'll be working on conceptually driven projects which include restaurants, bars, hotels, and multi-family residential. You'll be working collaboratively with some of the smartest, and design-forward experts in award-winning hospitality-driven spaces and experiences.
You should have exceptional design skills, be a highly-motivated leader, possess a background knowledge of hospitality, and have a portfolio showcasing creative design concepts. As leaders of our creative collaborative, Senior Designers need to recognize all voices on their team during the design process and promote an environment of inclusivity. Successful Senior Designers foster a healthy and engaging design environment that promotes creative and unique ideas from each staff member. AvroKO is not hierarchical in design decisions and encourages all staff to capitalize on their talents and energy. Your primary role is to lead a design team that is inclusive and curious with the technical acumen to deliver the project from start to finish while maintaining AvroKO standards and high caliber of work.
What you will do
  • Lead the design team toward external presentations which include mood boards, 3-D modeling, photoshop renderings, CAD drawings, image research, material selections, high-end FF&E selections, and other job-related duties as assigned
  • Engagingly and persuasively present work internally and externally.
  • Liaison between the Principal in Charge and the design team during the design process
  • Lead the coordination and production of technical drawings which include contract document sets, FF&E specifications, material schedules, and budgets
  • Reviewing all documents to ensure they incorporate design intent and technical accuracy
  • Manage design coordination within the design team and between the Owner's consultants and AvroKO
  • Manage communications and coordination between AvroKO and consultants
  • Reviewing construction administration services including RFI responses, submittal reviews, field reports, and punch list reviews while resolving CA issues
  • Participate in coordination with consultants and vendors
  • Supervise, develop, and mentor interior designers
  • Coordinate with Design Managers in providing services per scope, budget, and schedule
  • Other job-related duties as assigned
  • Work closely with your design team and studio at large, to promote a culture of design excellence and creativity.

Resumes without portfolios will not be reviewed. Please upload your portfolio via "Upload Additional Files."
Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Interior Design, Architecture or related field from an accredited school
  • Hospitality experience is recommended.
  • 8+ years of post-graduate design experience with significant experience in high-end, conceptually driven design
  • Proficient in AutoCAD, SketchUp, Enscape, and other 3D modeling software.
  • Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop and InDesign)
  • Outstanding communication and presentation skills
  • Experience leading design teams and building strong client relationships
  • Excellent organizational skills with strong attention to detail
  • Strong knowledge of high-end FF&E, materials, and specifications
  • Demonstrate a strong conceptual approach to design and persuasive presentation skills
  • Excellent teamwork skills. Ability to work collaboratively with design directors and creative managing directors across the firm
  • The base salary range will be estimated between $95,000-$120,000 plus benefits and contingent on relevant experience and abilities.

Life at AvroKO
At AvroKO, we are dedicated to hiring a diverse workplace that celebrates an inclusive culture and a sense of belonging. As an equal opportunity employer, we do not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and gender expression), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factors.
AvroKO is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application procedures. If you need assistance or accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at hrmanager@avroko.com.
We encourage employees to lead a life reflective of our hospitality mission and provide opportunities for team outings, and curated design events. Our benefits include medical, dental, vision, 401k matching, flex spending, life insurance, yearly professional development reimbursement, paid holidays, paid birthday, and paid time off.