Design Associate

Insidesource DEI Statement

By nurturing a culture where everyone experiences a deep sense of belonging and equity of opportunity, we will uphold our vision to “unleash human and business potential." We commit to being an anti-ism workplace and embedding diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout our business.


Job Summary

As a Design Associate, you will work with a team of Sales representatives and Designers in a highly collaborative manner to research furniture solutions, create project deliverables, and prepare final specifications. You will actively expand your knowledge and understanding of workplace design practices, products, and accessories, and act as a product expert and resource to the Sales and Design departments.


Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Design Support

Provide support to Designers on projects to complete assigned deliverables and presentation materials for furniture in accordance with project vision and goals. Deliverables may include product research, lookbooks, budgets, fabric/finish sample options, and more.
Conduct product and vendor research in support of projects and requests to find appropriate furniture solutions, accessories, fabric, and finish approvals to meet specific budget, lead-time, functional and aesthetic requirements.
Assist with tracking and managing of critical design-related tasks as they relate to overall project schedules including testing and approval of COM applications, COM reservations, CFAs, finishes, and shop drawings.
Liaison with Sales, Sourcing, and Designers to contribute to on-going furniture and accessory curation.
Assist with site coordination including field measurements and existing furniture inventory documentation.
Demonstrate proficient time management skills; effectively address competing priorities and urgent situations, making sound decisions in short timeframes with appropriate action and guidance from design mentor or project lead.
Order Preparation and Management

Perform double-check for accuracy of ancillary specifications and counts.
Liaison with Sales/Sourcing/Design departments regarding new vendor research, documentation, and approval.
Negotiate with vendors and suppliers for competitive pricing and discounts.
Prepare final, approved ancillary product specifications to be order entry ready.
Work with vendors and internal project teams to reconcile acknowledgement discrepancies.
Resolve discrepancies with invoicing to insure timely payment and project completion with client.
Industry Knowledge

Stay current with design, workplace, and product trends.
Participate in product and professional training programs and activities for on-going growth and development.
Insidesource Core Responsibilities

Exemplify Insidesource values of Team First, Client Led, Change Makers, Experience Focused.
Participate in All Company Meetings and Regional Town Halls.
Embody diversity, equity, and inclusion in our Insider community and business practices.
Supervisory Responsibilities

None


Skills, Knowledge, Experience Required

Design Degree, or equivalent work experience.
AutoCAD 2018 required.
Proficient in Microsoft Office, Adobe Suite, Sketch-Up, and web-support applications.
Basic understanding of general building systems, building/ADA codes, electrical, and cabling.
Familiarity with concepts, practices, and procedures within the field of Interior Design.
Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
Outstanding graphic presentation skills.
Excellent communicator with good verbal presentation skills and the ability to communicate design concepts to clients.
High attention to detail and understanding of product specification.
Practical working knowledge of primary furniture products sold through Insidesource.
Adept at managing multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced work environment and self- directed to manage deadlines.
Excellent and effective oral and written communication.
Strong organizational, analytical, negotiation, and administrative skills.
Ability to see the big picture and integrate into day-to-day tasks and activities.
Fluid interpersonal skills to interact effectively with a wide range of customers, vendors, personnel, and departments.
Understanding of the complexities and sophistication required to thrive in the dealer environment.
Interior Design/Planning background – preferred.
Furniture product specification knowledge – preferred.
Experience in customer service required.
This role requires a valid driver’s license; must be able to pass a Motor Vehicle Record check. Read more