Role Summary:
We are seeking an energetic and creative Interior Designer with a passion for delivering thoughtful, high-impact workplace design solutions. This individual thrives in a fast-paced environment and demonstrates the ability to navigate challenges inherent to the contract furniture industry with confidence and agility. The ideal candidate collaborates effectively with both internal teams and external clients, contributing to a cohesive and solutions-oriented project experience. Exceptional communication skills are essential, with the ability to engage and influence stakeholders at all levels.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Provide comprehensive design support to multiple Key Account Executives (KAEs) across a range of projects. 
• Partner with KAEs in client engagements, project needs assessments, space planning, furniture specification, and development of tailored workplace solutions. 
• Actively contribute to the promotion and delivery of interior design services through client presentations, drawings, and visualizations that clearly communicate design intent and value. 
• Represent the company within the Architecture & Design (A&D), Real Estate, and Facilities communities by participating in industry organizations and events. 
• During the Pre-Design and Programming phase, apply consultative design skills to assess client needs through interviews, site visits, and stakeholder meetings. 
• Collaborate with clients to define project scope, establish budgets, align on timelines, and support strategic planning, including phasing and integration with external consultants. 
• In the Conceptual and Schematic phases, develop innovative design solutions that respond to user needs, workflow, brand identity, budget, and schedule while integrating existing furniture standards, finishes, and overall design cohesion. 
• During Design Development, execute detailed space planning and furniture specifications using tools such as CET, AutoCAD, CAP

Manages projects, programs, or functions without direct people leadership responsibility:   Yes

Impact on Business

• Contribute to achieving revenue and margin targets through effective design support, collaboration, and successful project execution. 
• Support new business development efforts by delivering compelling design solutions that enhance client engagement and win rates. 
• Positively influence team performance and contribute to the ongoing development of team capabilities and skillsets. 
• Collaborate with manufacturers to secure competitive pricing and optimal solutions aligned with project goals. 
• Engage with clients to present value-driven solutions, effectively balancing design intent, functionality, and budget.  
• Gather and analyze detailed client requirements to fully understand workflows, operational needs, and overall vision for the space. 
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring alignment with timelines, budgets, and quality expectations. 
• Utilize Salesforce CRM to track opportunities, manage project information, and support overall sales and design processes.

Communications & Interactions

• Develop and maintain strong client relationships within assigned accounts, supporting Account Managers in expanding existing business and engaging strategic-level clients. 
• Build and sustain effective partnerships with preferred manufacturers and service providers to support successful project delivery. 
• Identify opportunities to introduce standards programs and blanket purchase agreements that drive consistency and long-term client value. 
• Utilize consultative communication skills, including asking thoughtful, probing questions, to fully understand client expectations, workflows, and project scope. 
• Confidently engage with stakeholders at all levels of an organization, demonstrating professionalism and adaptability in both internal and external interactions. 

Interaction Overview

• External Customer/Vendor Interaction: Yes
  Regularly attends meetings virtual meetings alongside Account Managers or independently. Participation in client presentations and construction meetings is frequently required. CET Live Design is typically preferred.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Yes
  Works closely with internal teams to ensure projects are delivered on schedule, aligned with client expectations, and executed to a high standard of quality. 
• Management of Conflicting Objectives: No
  Role typically operates within aligned project goals, with minimal exposure to conflicting stakeholder priorities that would inhibit resolution. 
• Negotiation Responsibility: Yes
  Engages in pricing discussions with clients and collaborates with manufacturers and service providers to secure competitive costs and optimal project outcomes. Bottom of Form

Education & Experience

Education Requirements

• Preferred - Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design or/
• 6-7 years of Equivalent job-related experience within the contract furniture industry

Years of Experience

• Minimum of 5+ years of experience in interior design, space planning, and furniture specification within the contract furniture industry. 
• Proficiency in CET, AutoCAD, CAP 2020, and Microsoft Office Suite (PowerPoint, Excel, Word), including presentation development. 
• Demonstrated experience creating interior finish selections and color/material presentations 
• Strong understanding of workplace design principles and furniture applications. 
• Ability to travel locally as needed; occasional overnight travel required (less than 10%).

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications

• Demonstrated proficiency in interior design, space planning, space assessment, and applicable codes and compliance requirements. 
• Strong technical skills in relevant design software, including CET, AutoCAD, CAP, and other visualization tools. 
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, effectively prioritizing based on deadlines, lead times, and project milestones. 
• Experience collaborating with corporate design teams, Architecture & Design (A&D) firms, general contractors, project managers, and end-users across all levels of engagement. 
• Minimum of 5+ years of experience in commercial contract furniture design and space planning. 
• Ability to lead projects from initial concept through final installation and occupancy. 
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to clearly and confidently present ideas to audiences ranging from end-users to C-level executives. 
• Strong presentation skills, with experience developing and delivering professional, client-facing materials. 
• Detail-oriented with a high level of organization and a professional presence. 
• Collaborative mindset with the ability to work effectively within internal teams to support and promote design services. 
• Consultative approach to client engagement, including the ability to conduct research, identify client needs, and support a structured sales process. 
• Demonstrated understanding of workplace design strategy, including the application of commercial interiors principles and business considerations. 
• Knowledge of building codes, regulations, and constructability, with the ability to review and oversee design documentation accordingly. 
• Ability to perform effectively under pressure, managing competing priorities and tight deadlines. 
• NCIDQ (CIDQ) certification preferred, but not required. 

We Offer:

• Competitive Salary Range:  $65,671 - $90,297 / plus bonus potential
• Inclusive culture with associate-led Business Resource Groups
• Flexible PTO (22 days) and Holiday Schedule (7 observed paid holidays)
• Online and Retail Discounts, Company Match 401(k), Physical and Mental Health Wellness programs, and more!

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment.

The salary range represents the expected compensation for this role at the time of posting. The specific base pay may be influenced by a variety of factors to include the candidate's experience, skill set, education, geography, business considerations, and internal equity. In addition to base pay, this role may be eligible for bonuses or other forms of variable compensation.

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Staples is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.