Senior Interior Designer

About the Role

We’re seeking a Senior Interior Designer with 15+ years of professional experience to lead complex design projects from concept through completion, integrating strategic thinking, client engagement and design leadership.

• Leading the development and execution of complete interior design concepts, space planning strategies, and material selections across multiple project types.
• Directing the production of detailed drawings, diagrams, and presentation materials.
• Overseeing and ensuring design continuity, technical quality, and project documentation through all project phases.
• Guiding collaboration across internal teams and directing coordination with consultants to realize and elevate design intent.
• Structuring and leading design reviews, client presentations, and team charrettes.
• Managing project timelines, deliverables and budgets to ensure operational excellence.
• Providing leadership, mentorship and support for junior and mid-level designers and fostering an innovative design culture.

• Proven ability to lead complex interior design projects independently from concept through completion within a dynamic, creative studio environment.
• Strategic design thinker with mastery of spatial planning, brand integration, storytelling, and environmental design across diverse project typologies.
• Demonstrated leadership in conceptual development, project organization, technical delivery, and team oversight.
• Experienced in managing multiple large‑scale projects simultaneously while ensuring alignment with timelines, budgets, and design excellence.
• Adept in leading high‑level client engagements, presenting design vision persuasively, and facilitating strategic design discussions.
• Skilled at fostering trust with clients and stakeholders while directing large interdisciplinary consultant teams.
• Strong mentor and team leader with a commitment to professional development and design culture.
• Expert in freehand and digital sketching to rapidly communicate design intent and drive decision‑making.
• Exceptional communication skills to articulate complex ideas clearly and inspire internal and external audiences.
• Detail‑oriented and highly accountable, consistently delivering quality in demanding and fast‑paced project environments.
• Advanced proficiency in Revit, Adobe Creative Suite, and both hand‑drawn and digital rendering techniques.
• Deeply committed to design excellence, innovation, and collaborative leadership.

• An accredited bachelor’s or master’s degree (or equivalent) in interior design or interior architecture.
• 15+ years of professional interior design experience.
• NCIDQ certification.

• Proven success leading interior design projects within a diverse range of public assembly building types including sports venues, convention centers, community buildings and transportation facilities.
• LEED, WELL, or other relevant credentials.

• Travel may be required.

Populous offers a competitive salary and bonus packages. We strive to offer our staff the best benefits package in the industry, at the lowest cost to employees, including medical, dental and vision coverage, 401k, FSA/HSA, paid time off and continuing education benefits.

Populous is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, genetic information, sexual orientation, veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local laws.