Interior Designer Senior

$60,850 - $73,050/Yr

University Of Michigan - Ann Arbor, MI

Full-time - Mid Level

Ann Arbor, MI

Educational Services

About the position

The Interior Designer - Senior position at the University of Michigan is a pivotal role within the Student Life Capital Projects (SLCP) department, which is responsible for managing a wide range of capital projects that enhance the living and learning environments for students. This position reports directly to the Director of Student Life Capital Projects and involves performing comprehensive interior design for various Student Life units, including University Housing, University Unions, Recreational Sports, and Michigan Dining. The projects range significantly in scale, with budgets from $10,000 to $5,000,000, and encompass both new construction and renovation activities. The Senior Interior Designer will be tasked with planning, designing, and furnishing interiors of residence halls, student unions, and recreational facilities. This includes formulating designs that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also practical and conducive to improving the quality of life and learning environment for students. The role requires close collaboration with clients to determine the purpose and function of the spaces, as well as the necessary equipment and materials. The designer will also manage the procurement and installation of finish materials, furniture, fixtures, and related items, ensuring that all specifications meet relevant codes and standards. In addition to design responsibilities, the position involves significant project management duties, including cost estimating, procurement, and construction coordination. The Senior Interior Designer will prepare complex cost estimates, manage vendor relationships, and oversee the installation of furnishings and fixtures. Regular communication with department leadership and project stakeholders is essential to ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget, while also meeting the established design specifications.

Responsibilities

• Plan, coordinate and carry out comprehensive and long-range programs for improvement of the interior environment of major areas.
• Establish standards for building complexes including furniture, graphics, signing, flooring, and paints.
• Interview clients to determine interior design preferences, needs, and budget guidelines.
• Prepare furniture plans, floor plans, and design drawings for architect and Facility Planning Committee approval.
• Prepare design specifications, CAD drawings, and budget.
• Prepare visual presentations to demonstrate ideas and alternatives to clients and present to Department and Divisional Leadership.
• Prepare complex cost estimates for furnishing, materials, and labor and provide value engineering alternatives.
• Confer with outside vendors regarding furnishings, fixtures, and materials.
• Coordinate interior finishes and fixed equipment with the construction contractor, retained architect, and/or University project director.
• Communicate and report project status to Department Leadership on a regular basis.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree from a CIDA accredited interior design program.
• 3-5 years professional design experience, preferably in an educational/institutional setting.
• Proficient in AutoCAD and CAP and/or CET Software, Adobe Photoshop, Google Sketch Up, and Microsoft Office Suite including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Knowledge of the methods and materials in institutional interior design, including furniture procurement and project management.
• Knowledge of commercial building codes and ADA requirements.
• Demonstrated effective written and oral communication skills; strong presentation and public-speaking skills.
• Strong organizational and logistical skills coupled with the ability to work effectively and collaboratively with a diverse team.

Nice-to-haves

• Familiarity with Microsoft Project or other project management scheduling software.
• Familiarity with University of Michigan design standards.
• Familiarity with University of Michigan purchasing policies and procedures.