Interior Designer/Space Planner

University of Illinois - Cambridge, MA

Full-time - Mid Level

Remote - Cambridge, MA

Educational Services

About the position

The Interior Designer/Space Planner at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health is responsible for managing and leading design projects related to office, laboratory, and classroom spaces. This role involves collaborating with various departments and stakeholders to identify space needs, manage space planning systems, and ensure compliance with university standards. The position requires a strong focus on project management, data analysis, and effective communication to support the school's mission of health research and education.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage design projects, including programming and conceptual test-fit layouts.
• Assist with planning and design of office, laboratory, and classroom space.
• Work proactively with departments to identify and anticipate space needs and solutions.
• Collaborate with campus partners, architects, consultants, and colleagues to meet project requirements.
• Manage and update the space planning and management system (Centerstone).
• Oversee space management policies, guidelines, and standards.
• Track and report space information and assess alternatives for space programming.
• Validate data quality and integrate floor plans into the system.
• Provide regular progress reports on portfolio metrics and existing space conditions.
• Lead space inventory, furniture changes/requests, and campus wayfinding efforts.
• Select or manage the selection of finishes and furniture.
• Manage vendor relationships and coordinate scheduling and delivery of furniture.
• Support planning and scheduling of moves, renovations, or space changes.
• Conduct research and analysis, producing strategic reports and presentations.
• Evaluate new technologies related to space management and make recommendations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience required.
• 5+ years of related experience required.
• Bachelor's degree in Interior Design, Architecture, or related field preferred.
• Strong portfolio demonstrating successful completion of workplace design projects.
• Experience with space management systems, particularly Centerstone, strongly preferred.
• Experience with AutoCAD, Revit, and Bluebeam systems management.
• Intermediate/advanced MS Excel skills.
• In-depth knowledge of space information systems and space planning.
• Strong communication, presentation, and relationship management skills.
• Experience in interior design with a focus on research laboratory projects.

Nice-to-haves

• Master's degree preferred.
• Experience working at all levels of an organization.
• Awareness of cultural and identity-based differences.
• Knowledge of social justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion concepts.
• Skills related to creating an inclusive environment.

Benefits

• Paid Time Off: 3-4 weeks of accrued vacation time per year, 12 accrued sick days, 12.5 holidays, and up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits, disability and life insurance programs.
• Child and elder/adult care resources, Employee Assistance Program, and wellness programs.
• University-funded retirement plan with contributions from 5% to 15% of eligible compensation.
• Tuition Assistance Program and Tuition Reimbursement for eligible courses.
• Professional Development programs and classes at little or no cost.
• Various commuter options including discounted parking and public transportation passes.
• Access to Harvard athletic and fitness facilities, libraries, and campus events.