Director of Interior Design

MWA•Truckee, CA

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

MWA, Inc. is seeking a well-rounded and self-motivated applicant for immediate placement as Director of Interior Design for custom residential, multi-family, and commercial projects. MWA, Inc. is a fast-paced, award-winning, full-service architecture, interior design, engineering, and planning firm located in Truckee, California, just minutes from beautiful Lake Tahoe. As an established multidisciplinary firm, we serve a high-end clientele, designing exceptional custom residential and commercial projects throughout the region. With an experienced interior design team already in place and a strong, steady pipeline of work, we offer the opportunity to make an immediate impact while contributing to a diverse portfolio of exciting projects. We specialize in distinctive mountain and snow-country design, fostering creativity, innovation, and collaboration within a vibrant, open studio environment where ideas are shared freely and every voice matters. Our work is guided by a commitment to balancing community, environmental stewardship, and economic responsibility through thoughtful, sustainable design. Just as important as what we create is how we work. MWA's culture is built on respect, empowerment, mentorship, autonomy, collaboration, personal and professional growth, social responsibility, and a genuine sense of joy. We believe the best ideas come from diverse perspectives, open communication, and a team that enjoys working together.

Requirements

MS or BS degree in Interior Design
10+ years of professional experience in interior design, with a focus on high-end residential or commercial projects.
At least 5 years of proven leadership experience, managing design teams within a design firm or architectural practice and delivering successful projects.
Strong portfolio showcasing innovative, creative design solutions and a broad range of successful interior design projects.
Excellent project management skills, with the ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously.
Proficient in computer-aided drawing, presentation tools, and basic office software such as Revit, Excel, Word, Programma, Adobe Creative Suite, Google Suite, and interior design procurement software (such as Studio Designer or similar) required.
Strong understanding of building codes, ADA requirements, and sustainability practices.
Physical Body Positions and Movements: Standing, kneeling, bending and sitting for long periods of time.
Carrying, use of hands, arms, legs, eyes, ears and voice.
Must be able to negotiate rugged terrain on foot and able to drive a vehicle.
Physical Appearance: Must be presentable.
Mental: Good design and problem solving skills.
Language requirements are reading, writing, spelling and ability to communicate clearly in English.
Ability to respond effectively to inquiries and complaints.

Nice To Haves

NCIDQ certification or equivalent Certification as a licensed professional is preferred but not required
LEED certification or equivalent knowledge in sustainable design practices.
Experience in high-end residential, commercial or corporate interiors.
Strong business acumen with the ability to manage budgets, schedules, and profitability.

Responsibilities

Lead and oversee the interior design team, ensuring quality and consistency of design deliverables across all projects.
Develop, define, communicate and implement design strategies that align with the company’s vision, brand values, business objectives and market trends.
Stay informed and ahead about the latest trends, materials, and technologies in interior design and incorporate them into projects.
Assist with interviewing and selecting candidates when staffing needs arise.
Assist senior management in performance reviews of the interior design team.
Develop and implement design strategies that align with market trends and client needs, positioning the company as a leader in the interior design industry.
Work closely collaboratively with senior firm leadership with the opportunity to influence the company’s future growth and direction.
Ensure the highest standards of quality and design integrity are maintained across all projects, providing final approval for all design plans and presentations.
Oversee the conceptualization, development, and execution of design solutions for multiple projects, from initial concept through final installation.
Manage the full project lifecycle, from initial concept and space planning to design development, construction documentation, and final execution.
Heavy participation in the initial programming/concept/schematic phase before complete hand-off to the design team.
Participation on all projects as needed for overall quality control or input needed for sourcing or design solutions.
Oversee the selection of furniture, materials, and finishes to achieve the desired aesthetic and functionality.
Build and maintain relationships with suppliers, contractors, and industry professionals.
Collaborate with the business development team to identify and pursue new business opportunities, attend client pitches, and represent the company at industry events.
Participate in implementing, and maintaining effective sales and other programs that provide maximum exposure to new business prospects within the firm’s established goals and objectives.
Participate in developing and implementing promotional programs and plans; cultivating and developing potential business prospects; preparing proposals, presentations, and qualification packages.
Estimate fees, determine the scope of work, and prepare proposals and contracts on the most complex projects.
Build and maintain strong client relationships, providing a high level of service, acting as a key contact for high-profile clients, presenting design concepts, and ensuring their vision is realized.
Oversee all stages of project design and implementation, including space planning, material selection, furniture procurement, and budget management.
Ensure all projects are delivered on time, within budget, and meet or exceed client expectations.
Coordinate all project efforts in order to ensure effective execution, prepare strategic plans, and serve as primary client liaison.
Handle the most complex projects of the largest magnitude.
Prepare strategic plans for project success.
Actively manage client budgets, schedules, and programs; project communications and documentation; office administrative tasks; and project team assignments.
Provide oversight and quality control of the work of less experienced team members.
Responsible for accuracy of detailed technical drawings, floor plans, elevations, and 3D renderings using Revit, or other design software
Ensure that designs comply with all relevant building codes, regulations, and accessibility standards.
Present design concepts and proposals to clients, stakeholders and senior leadership
Troubleshoot design and construction issues as they arise, providing creative and timely solutions
Lead, mentor, and manage a team of interior designers, ensuring consistent high-quality work and professional development of the team.
Foster a culture of creativity, innovation, and continuous improvement within the design team.
Work collaboratively with architects, project managers, engineers, contractors, suppliers, and other internal and external stakeholders to ensure successful project execution.
Mentor and provide guidance to junior designers and support their professional development.

Benefits

Health insurance
Paid time off
Vision insurance
401(k)
401(k) matching
Dental insurance
Flexible schedule
Medical, Dental and Vision- MWA, Inc. pays 100% of all qualifying employee medical premiums
Basic Life Insurance
401(k) and 401(k) matching (up to 4%)
PTO, Sick Time, and 7 Paid Holidays
Remote Work reimbursement
Team lunches every other week
Education Assistance
Flexible schedule
Bonus opportunities