At Kathryn Murphy Interiors, we delight in transforming how clients see their homes. Turning limitations into possibilities is our secret sauce. We believe in the magic of home and that thoughtful, enduring design comes from understanding how our clients uniquely exist in their space.  We find innovative ways to transform the frustrating to the functional and create inviting, livable spaces that work simply and beautifully and look simply beautiful. 

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Design Assistant / Associate Designer

This highly collaborative role assists in all elements of the firm. The successful candidate will be comfortable working on multiple projects simultaneously, working behind the scenes to create a seamless and engaging experience for clients, vendors, and trade partners. The main purpose of this position is to support the principal designer and the firm as a whole. This role will play a part in nearly all aspects of the client/project lifecycle. 

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Part-time / 20 - 30 hours per week with potential to move into a full-time role depending on skill set.  Pay commensurate with the candidate's experience, but ranges between $25-$35 per hour. This position does include a paid week off in December and July (2 weeks total). This position is a mix of remote and on-site work with some lifting and transportation required. Applicants should be located in the Chicago area with access to a car. 

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To apply please send your resume, cover letter, and portfolio to the email link below.

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Responsibilities & Duties

Design:

• Create concept drawings and construction packages for projects as assigned.

• Using firm templates, prepare and produce presentations, spec books, and closing documents.

• Attend measuring meetings and site visits as assigned.

• Assist in client-facing presentations with the principal designer.

• Submit RFQs to vendors and collect product information.

• Assist the principal in sourcing and selecting products for projects.

• Take initiative, problem-solve, collaborate & communicate effectively with the design team.

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Procurement/ Administrative:

• Assist/collaborate with virtual assistant on ordering process: order product, manage follow up /tracking & updating FFE sheets.

• Manage damages, claims with vendors, and repairs.

• Schedule trades/deliveries. 

• Update client binders/POs as needed.

• Manage receiving warehouse - track items, send shipping lists, etc.

• Coordinating and managing shipments and deliveries. 

• Scheduling meetings. 

• Communicating with clients, vendors, contractors, etc. 

• Maintain vendor relationships and studio library materials. 

• Maintaining the office and keeping track of any office related materials and inventory. 

• Plan, prepare, and assist with furniture installations and photo shoots.

• Prioritize tasks and coordinate completion of projects.

• Capture images of flat lays and in process projects as assigned.

• Pick up and deliver samples as requested (furniture, textiles, hardware, tile, stone, etc).

• Coordinate welcome/ thank you gifts for clients.

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Additional Responsibilities Based on Skill Level:

• Developing, editing, reviewing, and collaborating on drawing sets for construction/client projects. 

• Designing custom cabinetry and furniture.

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Qualifications

• Must be detail oriented and able to work independently and with a team.

• Amazing communication and interpersonal skills, and the ability to be assertive and clear with vendors and subcontractors.

• This role will have some client facing responsibilities - clear, proactive communication skills are a must. 

• Strong time management skills.

• Self-motivated and adaptable spirit to thrive in a fast paced and demanding environment.

• Valid driver’s license and car or reliable transportation.

• Adobe Photoshop: 1+ years (Preferred, but not a must)

• Interior design/industry experience: 1+ years (Preferred)

• Chief Architect, Dubsado, Studio Designer: 1+ years (Preferred)

• Knowledge of applications such as Canva and/or In Design

• Knowledge of wholesale and trade vendors a plus

• Must be local to the Chicago, Illinois area with the ability to work within the office, this position is hybrid and will include time in person 

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KMI’s Core Principles

1. We make intentional choices. KMI is intentional - not only about your project’s design elements, but also about who we source from and the vendors we partner with. We love to support small, local, and BIPOC-owned businesses whenever we can.

2. We use materials with integrity. KMI considers environmental sustainability when choosing materials. We are conscious of appropriation in our design elements, and we conduct due diligence to ensure artists are being properly credited and compensated for any work we incorporate.

3. We build relationships. KMI values authentic relationships with our clients, our vendors, and our partners. Relationships of this caliber require trust, respect, and candid communication - all of which we hope to cultivate with each of our partners.

4. Our work is inherently collaborative. Good design doesn’t happen in a vacuum. We believe that all our projects benefit from authentic collaboration. Iteration, discussion, and revisions are all a part of our work together.

5. Your home should be a sanctuary. You deserve a gorgeous space that brings you
   peace. Everyone at KMI honors your home as a space you are inviting us (and our partners) into. We don’t take it lightly.

6. Transformation is wonderful. This process, and the eventual outcome, is amazing and full of joy. Transforming your space can mean so much more than just updating the design - it can represent a new chapter, bring a new perspective, or unlock new potential. We try to keep our eyes on this prize throughout the process, because:

7. Change is hard. The end result will pay dividends, but the road to get there can be
   tricky. Time, money, decisions, and a sprinkle of chaos...all of this can create stress throughout the process. There’s no getting around it, but we’ve learned that getting in front of it can smooth out some of the bumps along the way.

8. No one should work for free. Talking about costs and money can often bring tension. KMI hopes to mitigate that tension by keeping conversations about money candid and clear. We value your budget and never take your money for granted. We also value our vendor partnerships and honor their labor (as well as our own).