Design Consultant

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Consultant

Company: Up Closets of Chicago North

Location: Evanston, Illinois, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Sales & Design Operations

Date Posted: April 20, 2026

Experience Level: Entry to Mid-Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This is a client-facing role focused on in-home consultations for custom closet and space design.

• Combines sales acumen with design creativity to guide homeowners through the design process.

• Offers a structured 3-month paid training program followed by a commission-based compensation model.

• Requires proficiency in design software and excellent customer service to ensure client satisfaction.

• Involves collaboration with installation teams to deliver high-quality custom solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Design Consultant," the core responsibilities and compensation structure (commission-based with performance bonuses) indicate a strong sales-oriented component. This role sits at the intersection of sales, client management, and operational execution within the custom home solutions industry. The emphasis on "bringing dream spaces to life" suggests a consultative sales approach.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct in-home consultations with prospective clients to thoroughly understand their storage needs, design preferences, and lifestyle requirements.

• Utilize proprietary design software to create compelling and functional custom closet and space solutions tailored to individual client specifications.

• Develop detailed proposals and accurate estimates, clearly outlining project scope, materials, and investment for client approval.

• Collaborate closely with installation teams, providing clear design specifications and project details to ensure seamless and efficient execution of custom builds.

• Maintain consistent, proactive communication with clients throughout the entire design and installation lifecycle, ensuring a positive and transparent customer experience.

• Uphold high standards of customer service, addressing client inquiries and concerns promptly and professionally to foster lasting relationships.

• Ensure all design and installation processes adhere strictly to company policies, procedures, and quality standards.

• Maintain a safe, organized, and professional work environment, both in client homes and during any associated administrative tasks.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly outline a process from initial client engagement and needs assessment through design, proposal, and handoff to installation. This requires strong project management and communication skills to manage client expectations and ensure successful project delivery, aligning with operational efficiency in a client-facing service environment.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is listed, a background in interior design, architecture, business, or a related field is beneficial. Equivalent practical experience in sales or design will be considered.

Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in a client-facing sales or design role.

• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and client interactions concurrently.

Required Skills:

• Sales Acumen: Proven ability to engage with clients, understand needs, present solutions, and close deals.

• Design Proficiency: Aptitude for spatial design and visualization, with a passion for creating functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces.

• Technology Savvy: Comfortable and adept at learning and utilizing design software, CRM systems, and other digital tools for client management and project execution.

• Exceptional Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate design concepts and project details clearly and persuasively.

• Interpersonal Skills: Strong ability to build rapport, establish trust, and foster positive relationships with a diverse range of clients.

• Organizational Prowess: Superior organizational and time-management skills to effectively manage appointments, design tasks, and follow-ups.

• Customer Focus: A strong commitment to delivering outstanding customer service and ensuring client satisfaction.

• Detail Orientation: Meticulous attention to detail in design, proposals, and client communication to ensure accuracy and quality.

Preferred Skills:

• Prior experience with custom closet design or home organization solutions.

• Familiarity with 3D rendering or CAD software.

• Experience in commission-based sales environments.

• Knowledge of home improvement or interior design trends.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Requirements" section in the original description explicitly lists "Sales and design experience is an ideal combo" and "Proficiency in technology and ability to understand design software." The emphasis on "Passion for design and exceeding clients needs" further reinforces the consultative sales and client satisfaction aspects of the role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Case Studies: Showcase 3-5 examples of custom closet or space designs, detailing the client's initial problem, your proposed solution, the design process, and the final outcome.

• Sales Performance Metrics: If applicable and permissible, provide anonymized data or descriptions of sales achievements, such as average deal size, conversion rates, or client satisfaction scores.

• Process Documentation Samples: Include examples of how you document client needs, create proposals, or manage project timelines, demonstrating organizational and communication skills.

• Software Proficiency Examples: Briefly describe or visually represent your experience with relevant design software (e.g., CAD, 3D modeling, CRM) and how you leverage these tools to enhance client engagement and project efficiency.

Process Documentation:

• Client Consultation Workflow: Document your approach to conducting in-home consultations, from initial greeting to needs assessment and solution presentation.

• Design & Proposal Generation: Outline the steps involved in translating client requirements into a design concept, generating proposals, and managing revisions.

• Client Handoff & Collaboration: Describe your process for briefing installation teams and ensuring smooth project transitions, including communication protocols.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given this is a client-facing design and sales role, a strong portfolio demonstrating both design capabilities and sales effectiveness is crucial. The "Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements" section is designed to guide candidates on how to present their qualifications in a way that highlights their ability to manage the end-to-end client journey and operational workflow, even if they don't have formal "operations" experience.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $65,000 - $95,000+ per year (commission-based)

Benefits:

• Uniforms Provided: Professional attire supplied to maintain a consistent brand image.

• Tools Provided: Necessary tools for design and client consultations will be supplied.

• W2 Employee: Classified as a direct employee, not an independent contractor.

• Paid Training: Comprehensive 3-month paid training program to equip you with necessary skills.

• Performance Bonus: Additional incentives tied directly to sales performance and exceeding targets.

• Opportunity for Advancement: Clear pathways for career progression within the company.

• Training & Development: Ongoing learning opportunities to enhance design and sales skills.

• Flexible Schedule: While client-driven, there's potential for flexibility in scheduling appointments.

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance coverage.

• Home Office Stipend: Support for setting up a functional home office space.

• Paid Time Off: Accrued paid time off for work-life balance.

Working Hours: Typically 40 hours per week, with flexibility to schedule client appointments during evenings and weekends as needed. The commission-based structure often allows for greater autonomy in managing one's schedule to maximize sales opportunities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary is explicitly stated as commission-based with an earning potential range. The "Benefits" section is directly extracted from the provided data. The "Working Hours" infer a standard full-time commitment with the noted flexibility for client-facing roles. The inclusion of a "Home office stipend" is particularly relevant for a role that involves in-home consultations.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Custom Home Solutions / Interior Design / Retail Sales

Company Size: Small to Medium-sized Business (Franchise Location)

Founded: Up Closets was founded with a vision to innovate in the custom closet design space. This specific location, "Up Closets of Chicago North," operates as an independently owned and operated franchise.

Team Structure:

• Sales & Design Team: Comprised of Design Consultants who manage client engagements from initial consultation through design finalization.

• Installation Team: Dedicated professionals responsible for the precise fabrication and installation of custom closet systems.

• Franchise Management: Oversees operations, training, and business development for the Chicago North territory.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Design Consultants work closely with installers to ensure accurate project execution and with management for support and performance reviews.

Methodology:

• Client-Centric Design: Focus on deeply understanding and fulfilling individual client needs and aesthetic preferences.

• Data-Driven Sales: Leveraging sales performance data and client feedback to refine sales strategies and improve conversion rates.

• Process Optimization: Streamlining the design-to-installation workflow for efficiency, quality, and customer satisfaction.

• Continuous Improvement: Encouraging ongoing learning and skill development for all team members.

Company Website: http://www.upclosets.com/Chicago-North

📝 Enhancement Note: The company description highlights a "tight-knit family of creative visionaries, builders, and dreamers." This suggests a collaborative and passionate work environment. The franchise model implies a blend of corporate standards and local operational autonomy, which is important for candidates to understand.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as an Entry to Mid-Level (0-2 years) client-facing position. It serves as a foundational role for individuals interested in consultative sales, design, and project management within the home improvement sector.

Reporting Structure: Design Consultants typically report to a Sales Manager or the Franchise Owner/Operator. They will also collaborate closely with the installation team, though direct reporting lines may differ.

Operations Impact: Design Consultants are critical to the revenue generation of the business. Their ability to effectively consult, design, and sell directly impacts the company's sales figures, client satisfaction rates, and overall market presence. They are the frontline ambassadors of the brand, translating client needs into tangible business opportunities.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Design Consultant: Progress to handling more complex projects, larger clients, or mentoring junior consultants.

• Sales Management: Transition into leadership roles, managing a team of Design Consultants, setting sales targets, and driving overall sales strategy.

• Operations Management: Potentially move into roles overseeing installation, project management, or general operations within the franchise.

• Specialization: Develop expertise in specific design niches (e.g., luxury closets, home office solutions) or sales methodologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided text mentions "Opportunity for advancement" and "Training & development." This section extrapolates these points into specific career paths within a franchise model, focusing on how a Design Consultant role can evolve into further sales or operational leadership.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid - Primarily remote/on-site client consultations, with potential for a local office or showroom for training, client meetings, or administrative tasks. A "Home office stipend" is provided, indicating significant remote work support.

Office Location(s): The role is based in Evanston, Illinois, serving clients within the Chicago North territory. Specific office space details beyond the home office stipend are not provided, but client consultations will occur in client homes.

Workspace Context:

• Client Homes: The primary workspace will be in clients' residences, requiring professionalism, respect for property, and excellent on-site presentation.

• Home Office: A dedicated home office space is supported by a stipend, ideal for administrative tasks, design work, and client communication.

• Collaborative Environment: Opportunities to connect with fellow Design Consultants and installation teams for knowledge sharing and project coordination, likely through virtual meetings or occasional in-person gatherings.

Work Schedule: While a standard 40-hour work week is implied, the nature of client-facing sales often necessitates flexibility. Evening and weekend appointments are common to accommodate client availability, allowing consultants to structure their week to maximize client engagement and sales potential.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Work Environment" section synthesizes information about client-facing duties, the provision of a home office stipend, and flexible scheduling to describe the typical on-site and remote aspects of this role.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process: While not explicitly detailed, a typical process for this type of role would involve:

• Initial Screening: A brief phone or video call to assess basic qualifications, communication skills, and interest.

• In-Depth Interview: A more comprehensive discussion focusing on sales experience, design aptitude, problem-solving skills, and cultural fit. This may include a portfolio review.

• Design/Sales Challenge: Candidates may be asked to present a design concept for a hypothetical client or role-play a sales consultation.

• Meet the Team/Owner: An opportunity to interact with key stakeholders, including potential colleagues or the franchise owner.

• Offer & Onboarding: Final offer extended, followed by onboarding and the commencement of paid training.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Design Versatility: Include a range of styles and solutions to demonstrate adaptability.

• Quantify Sales Success: Whenever possible, use numbers (e.g., "increased average sale by X%", "achieved Y% of quota") to highlight achievements.

• Tell a Story: For each project, explain the client's challenge, your approach, and the positive impact of your solution.

• Highlight Software Proficiency: Clearly indicate the design and CRM tools you are proficient in.

• Professional Presentation: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, visually appealing, and easy to navigate, whether digital or physical.

Challenge Preparation:

• Research Up Closets: Understand their product offerings, design aesthetic, and target market.

• Practice Design Scenarios: Be ready to walk through your process for designing a custom closet for a specific client need (e.g., a small bedroom, a walk-in pantry).

• Role-Play Sales Consultations: Practice your opening, needs discovery questions, objection handling, and closing techniques.

• Prepare Questions: Have thoughtful questions ready about the team, training, sales targets, and company culture.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section infers a typical interview and portfolio review process for a sales and design role, drawing on industry best practices and the specific requirements mentioned in the job description. The emphasis is on preparing candidates to demonstrate both their creative and commercial capabilities.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Proprietary Design Software: Candidates will be trained on Up Closets' specific design software for creating custom closet and space solutions. Proficiency in similar 2D/3D design or CAD software is a strong indicator of aptitude.

• CRM System: Likely used for client management, lead tracking, proposal generation, and sales pipeline management. Familiarity with platforms like Salesforce, HubSpot, or similar CRM tools is beneficial.

• Communication Tools: Standard office suite applications (e.g., Microsoft Office, Google Workspace) for email, document creation, and scheduling. Video conferencing tools (e.g., Zoom, Microsoft Teams) are essential for remote client interactions and team meetings.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales Performance Dashboards: Access to reports and dashboards to track personal sales metrics, pipeline status, and goal attainment.

• Client Feedback Systems: Tools or processes for collecting and analyzing customer satisfaction surveys and reviews.

CRM & Automation:

• Lead Management Systems: The CRM will likely automate lead distribution and initial follow-up processes.

• Proposal Generation Tools: Software or templates to efficiently create professional proposals and estimates.

📝 Enhancement Note: Based on the job description mentioning "design software" and the need for client management and sales tracking, this section outlines the likely technology stack. Specific proprietary software will be part of the paid training.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Client Focus: Prioritizing client needs and satisfaction above all else; aiming to exceed expectations in design and service.

• Creativity & Innovation: Encouraging unique design solutions and embracing new ideas to transform spaces.

• Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding honesty, transparency, and high ethical standards in all client interactions and business dealings.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Fostering a supportive environment where consultants and installers work together towards shared goals.

• Performance Driven: Recognizing and rewarding individual and team success through commission structures and bonuses.

Collaboration Style:

• Client-Centric: The primary collaboration is with the client to co-create their ideal space.

• Cross-Functional: Strong collaboration is required between Design Consultants and Installation teams to ensure design accuracy and efficient project execution.

• Supportive Team: The company culture aims to be a "tight-knit family," suggesting a supportive and communicative team dynamic among consultants and management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company description and implied role functions suggest a culture that values creativity, client satisfaction, and collaborative problem-solving. These values are crucial for success in a consultative sales and design role.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales & Design: Effectively managing time between client consultations, design work, administrative tasks, and sales closing.

• Commission-Based Income: Navigating the inherent variability of commission-based earnings, especially during initial training or slower sales periods.

• Client Expectations Management: Aligning client desires with practical design constraints, budget limitations, and installation feasibility.

• Geographic Coverage: Managing travel time and logistics across a defined service territory to meet with clients.

• Learning Curve: Mastering proprietary design software and sales processes within the initial training period.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Comprehensive Paid Training: A structured 3-month program covering design software, sales techniques, product knowledge, and company processes.

• Mentorship: Opportunities to learn from experienced Design Consultants and sales leaders within the franchise.

• Skill Specialization: Developing expertise in specific design challenges or client segments.

• Career Advancement: Clear pathways to senior consultant or management roles within the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section addresses the inherent challenges of a commission-based, client-facing role and highlights the significant investment in training and development offered by the company.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to balance a client's creative vision with practical design limitations. How did you navigate this?": Focus on your problem-solving and communication skills.

• "Walk me through your process for a typical in-home sales consultation, from initial contact to closing.": Demonstrate your understanding of the sales cycle and client engagement.

• "How do you stay organized and manage your time when juggling multiple client projects and deadlines?": Highlight your organizational skills and time-management strategies.

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Up Closets of Chicago North and our approach to custom design?": Show you've researched the company and understand its mission.

• "How do you see yourself contributing to a 'tight-knit family' culture?": Emphasize your collaborative and team-oriented mindset.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Tell a Compelling Story: For each project, clearly articulate the client's problem, your solution, and the positive outcome.

• Showcase Design Process: Don't just show final designs; include sketches, mood boards, or software screenshots that illustrate your creative process.

• Quantify Impact: Use data (sales figures, client feedback) to demonstrate your effectiveness as a sales professional.

• Be Prepared for Design Challenges: Have a few hypothetical design scenarios in mind and be ready to present a solution.

• Demonstrate Software Skills: Be ready to discuss or, if possible, briefly demonstrate your familiarity with design software.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section offers actionable advice for candidates, focusing on demonstrating both the creative design and consultative sales aspects of the role, as well as cultural fit with a team-oriented company.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Consultant position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Up Closets Careers portal.

• Portfolio Preparation: Curate a portfolio that showcases your best design work and any relevant sales achievements. Focus on clarity, impact, and demonstrating your ability to meet client needs.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight sales experience, design skills, customer service achievements, and proficiency with relevant software. Use keywords from the job description.

• Interview Practice: Prepare for interview questions that assess both your design acumen and your sales capabilities. Practice articulating your process and quantifying your successes.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Up Closets' brand, design philosophy, and the specific offerings of the Chicago North franchise. Understand their approach to client service and team culture.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.