Design Director

Job Description

About Us:

We are a top Silicon Valley architectural and interior design firm (Silicon Valley Business Journal Book of Lists) with 50 years of exciting project experience. We've also been recognized for our expertise in all aspects of commercial architecture; our projects range from corporate office, retail, restaurant, industrial to the medical field. Our clients include local start-up businesses, large Fortune 500 and Top Ten technology companies. The firm is looking for a talented Design Director to join our award-winning team!

We are a thriving company that takes pride in our employees and selectively choose exceptional candidates who will be best suited for this position as well as our company culture. We are looking for individuals who not only possess creativity, design quality, thoroughness and attention to detail but also a team player who has great interpersonal skills!

About the Position

The Design Director leads the creative, technical, and operational direction of the firm’s practice. This role sits at the senior leadership level, partnering closely with the Director of Architecture and executive leadership to shape design vision, elevate project quality, and ensure seamless integration between architecture and interiors. The Director provides mentorship and oversight across all design teams, guiding Job Captains, designers, and drafters through all project phases.



Job Responsibilities

  • Establish and drive the firm’s interior design vision, standards, and methodologies.

  • Collaborate with the CEO/President and Director of Architecture to align interior design strategy with broader firm goals.

  • Lead design reviews, ensuring creative excellence, technical accuracy, and brand consistency across all projects.

  • Represent the interior design discipline in leadership meetings, business development efforts, and client presentations.

  • Oversee all interior design projects from concept through construction administration.

  • Direct Job Captains in project planning, documentation, and coordination with architecture and engineering teams.

  • Ensure design intent is maintained throughout detailing, drafting, and construction.

  • Review and approve material palettes, FF&E selections, specifications, and documentation packages.

  • Provide day-to-day leadership, coaching, and performance feedback to Job Captains, intermediate designers, junior designers, and drafters.

  • Build a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.

  • Identify skill gaps and training opportunities to strengthen the design team.

  • Support staffing decisions and resource allocation across multiple concurrent projects.

  • Serve as a primary client-facing leader for interior design scope.

  • Present concepts, lead design workshops, and guide clients through decision-making.

  • Coordinate with consultants, vendors, and contractors to ensure project success.

  • Working vehicle and driver’s license required.

  • Oversee quality control for all interior design deliverables.

  • Contribute to fee proposals, project schedules, and scope development.

  • Maintain awareness of industry trends, sustainability practices, and emerging materials/technologies.

  • Support marketing and business development through portfolio curation, interviews, and proposal input.


Job Requirements

  • Organized

  • Flexible and efficient in a fast-paced environment, with the ability to multitask

  • Excellent interpersonal, written and verbal communication and time management skills

  • Keen attention to detail; thorough

  • Highly professional image and demeanor

  • Service-oriented attitude

  • Bachelor or Master's degree in Architecture, or similar, from an accredited program

  • 10+ years of professional interior design experience, including leadership roles within commercial projects.

  • Strong portfolio demonstrating design excellence across multiple project types.

  • Expertise in FF&E, materials, detailing, and construction documentation.

  • Strong AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, Adobe Photoshop, and Illustrator skills

  • Exceptional communication, leadership, and client management skills.

  • NCIDQ certification preferred; LEED or WELL accreditation a plus

  • Interest in ARE licensure preferred

  • Working vehicle and driver's license required

Does this sound like you? Ready to apply? Please submit a cover letter and resume with portfolio/work samples if you meet the requirements above.


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