Design Consultant II

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Consultant II

Company: Porcelanosa USA

Location: Vienna, Virginia, US

Job Type: Full Time

Category: Sales Operations / Retail Sales Consulting

Date Posted: August 17, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive showroom sales performance and achieve/exceed sales objectives for high-end interior design products.

• Enhance showroom appeal through effective merchandising, display design, and maintaining product knowledge of existing and new offerings.

• Provide expert design consultation and support to clients, assisting in determining product needs and applications to translate visions into reality.

• Manage the end-to-end sales transaction process, including quoting prices, preparing proposals, processing payments, and ensuring accurate data entry for orders and customer information.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Design Consultant II," the responsibilities heavily lean into sales operations and retail sales, focusing on driving revenue, managing customer interactions, and contributing to showroom operational efficiency. The role requires a blend of sales acumen, design sensibility, and customer service excellence.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Introduce, demonstrate, promote, and sell existing and new products/services within the showroom environment.

• Maintain and update showroom displays, exhibitors, and merchandising programs to reflect current trends and product offerings.

• Work collaboratively to meet or exceed established sales objectives, focusing on both volume and margin targets.

• Participate in the preparation of showroom sales budgets and monitor customer sales and margins to inform strategic decisions.

• Quote prices, prepare detailed proposals, and clearly communicate terms of sale and delivery to clients.

• Provide guidance and training to junior showroom sales personnel, sharing best practices and product knowledge.

• Schedule and conduct customer visits to support, close, or service showroom sales, fostering strong client relationships.

• Gather market intelligence by documenting product/service tastes and trends exhibited by buyers in the showroom.

• Receive and process cash instruments and other payment methods accurately for showroom sales.

• Enter customer information, sales orders, and other necessary data into the system to complete sales transactions efficiently.

• Prepare and submit expense reports as required, adhering to company policies.

• Manage incoming showroom calls, addressing inquiries and directing them to the appropriate personnel.

• Document and process customer service complaints, liaising effectively with department and product managers to resolve issues.

• Prepare sales and other relevant reports and analyses as necessary to track performance and identify areas for improvement.

• Manage overflow customer interactions from other showroom personnel to ensure all clients receive timely attention.

• Attend trade shows to represent Porcelanosa, maintain product knowledge, and update customer databases.

• Assist customers in determining product/service needs and applications, providing expert advice in design and inquiries.

• Manage product returns, deliveries, and pick-ups for sales concluded through the showroom, ensuring smooth logistical execution.

• Handle showroom customer complaints and problems proactively and professionally.

• Conduct proactive customer service follow-ups on orders to ensure client satisfaction and build loyalty.

• Organize and execute mailings and monitor showroom advertising campaigns to assess effectiveness and ROI.

• Prepare or facilitate the preparation of designs, drawings, and other deliverables for customers.

• Perform other duties as assigned to support showroom operations and sales goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The list of responsibilities is extensive, indicating a role that requires significant operational involvement beyond just direct sales. It includes elements of team leadership (coaching junior staff), operational administration (expense reports, data entry), customer relationship management (handling complaints, follow-ups), and marketing support (mailings, campaign monitoring). This suggests a need for strong organizational and process management skills.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While not explicitly stated, a background in Interior Design, Business, Marketing, or a related field is often beneficial for roles involving product consulting and sales.

Experience: 3-4 years of experience in interior design consulting or retail sales.

Required Skills:

• Proven experience in interior design consulting or a retail sales role, with a demonstrated ability to drive sales.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a strong emphasis on customer service and relationship building.

• Demonstrated ability to close sales effectively through persuasive techniques and product knowledge.

• Strong organizational and time management skills, essential for managing multiple client interactions and tasks.

• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and collaboratively as part of a dynamic team.

• Detail-oriented approach to tasks, ensuring accuracy in proposals, order processing, and client communication.

• Proficiency in multitasking and prioritizing effectively in a fast-paced showroom environment.

• Positive attitude and a strong work ethic, contributing to a productive and engaging team atmosphere. Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with design software or tools for creating designs, drawings, and layouts.

• Experience in merchandising and showroom display design.

• Knowledge of high-end building materials, tile, or luxury home furnishings.

• Ability to analyze sales data and customer trends to inform sales strategies.

• Experience in coaching or mentoring junior sales team members.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Design Consultant II" title implies a step up from an entry-level role, suggesting that candidates should not only possess the core skills but also demonstrate a capacity for independent work, problem-solving, and potentially some level of leadership or mentorship, as indicated by the responsibility to coach junior staff.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a history of achieving and exceeding sales targets, with quantifiable results (e.g., sales volume, margin growth).

• Showcase examples of successful client consultations, highlighting the process from initial inquiry to closing the sale and post-sale follow-up.

• Include visual examples of showroom displays or merchandising projects, illustrating an understanding of aesthetic appeal and product promotion.

• Present case studies of how complex customer needs or design challenges were met, emphasizing problem-solving skills and product application expertise. Process Documentation:

• Illustrate experience in managing the entire sales cycle, from lead generation/showroom traffic to order fulfillment and customer service.

• Provide examples of how customer data and sales transactions were managed, demonstrating accuracy in data entry and system utilization.

• Showcase methods for tracking sales performance, analyzing customer preferences, and reporting on sales activities.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a "Design Consultant II" role with sales operations components, a portfolio is crucial. It should not only highlight design aesthetics but also demonstrate a strong understanding of sales processes, customer management, and the ability to contribute to operational efficiency within the showroom. Quantifiable achievements are key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $25.00 - $28.00 per hour, plus commission opportunities.

• This hourly rate translates to an annual base salary range of approximately $52,000 to $58,240 for a standard 40-hour work week, before commission.

• The commission structure is designed to reward performance, allowing for significant earning potential beyond the base salary. Benefits:

• Competitive Compensation: Base salary plus commission opportunities.

• 401K Match: 100% match up to 4% of contributions, a strong retirement savings incentive.

• Medical Insurance: Comprehensive 3-tier medical insurance plan.

• Dental Insurance: 2-tier dental insurance plan.

• Vision Insurance: Coverage for eye care needs.

• Health Savings Account (HSA): Tax-advantaged savings for healthcare expenses.

• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA): For healthcare and dependent care expenses.

• Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance: Income protection during extended absences due to illness or injury.

• Employer-paid life insurance: Financial security for beneficiaries.

• Voluntary Employee, Spouse, and Child Life Insurance: Additional coverage options.

• Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity, and Accident Insurance: Financial support for specific health events.

• Tuition Reimbursement: Up to $3,000 to support continuing education and skill development.

• Paid Time Off (PTO): For rest, relaxation, and personal needs. Working Hours:

• 8-hour shifts.

• Weekends are required.

• Typical working hours are 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM, totaling 40 hours per week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The compensation structure combines a competitive hourly wage with commission, common in retail sales and design consulting roles, incentivizing high performance. The benefits package is comprehensive, covering health, retirement, income protection, and professional development, indicating a commitment to employee well-being and growth. The requirement for weekend work is typical for retail showroom environments.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Building Materials, Luxury Home Furnishings, Interior Design. Porcelanosa is a global leader in the manufacturing and distribution of high-quality ceramic tiles, kitchen and bathroom products, and other interior design solutions. The company operates within a competitive market that values innovation, quality, and sophisticated design.

Company Size: Approximately 5,000 skilled professionals globally. This indicates a large, established organization with robust operational structures and a significant market presence.

Founded: Over 45 years of experience. This long history suggests stability, established processes, and a deep understanding of the industry and customer needs.

Team Structure:

• The role involves working within a showroom sales team, likely reporting to a Showroom Manager or Sales Director.

• Collaboration is expected with other showroom sales personnel, design consultants, and potentially administrative or operational support staff.

• The responsibility to "coach junior showroom sales personnel" suggests a hierarchical structure where more experienced consultants guide less experienced ones. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Insights: The role requires gathering data on customer tastes and trends, monitoring sales and margins, and preparing sales reports, indicating a data-informed approach to sales strategy.

• Process Optimization: Responsibilities include managing sales transactions, handling customer service issues, and optimizing showroom displays, all contributing to efficient showroom operations.

• Client-Centric Approach: A strong emphasis is placed on understanding and meeting customer needs, providing design assistance, and ensuring customer satisfaction through proactive service and complaint resolution.

Company Website: https://www.porcelanosa-usa.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Porcelanosa's culture appears to be built on a foundation of innovation, quality, and a strong commitment to its employees and stakeholders. The global presence and extensive experience suggest a company that values professionalism, continuous improvement, and a structured approach to business operations. The "skills-first" recruitment approach highlights a commitment to diversity and meritocracy.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Design Consultant II is positioned as a mid-level role within the sales and design consulting track. It requires 3-4 years of experience and involves not only direct client interaction and sales but also some level of operational contribution, customer service management, and mentorship. This level often serves as a stepping stone to more senior sales roles, team lead positions, or specialized design consultancy.

Reporting Structure: The Design Consultant II will likely report to a Showroom Manager or Sales Manager. They will also be responsible for providing guidance and training to junior sales associates, indicating a dotted-line or informal leadership responsibility within the team.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct impact on revenue generation through sales performance and commission. It also influences operational efficiency by maintaining showroom standards, processing transactions accurately, and contributing to positive customer experiences, which drives repeat business and referrals. The insights gathered on customer trends can inform product development and marketing strategies.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Design Consultant/Sales Specialist: Advancement to a senior role with increased sales targets, larger client accounts, and potentially more complex design projects.

• Showroom Management: Progression towards a leadership role such as Assistant Showroom Manager or Showroom Manager, overseeing daily operations, staff management, and sales strategy for a specific location.

• Specialized Design Roles: Opportunities to focus on specific product lines (e.g., kitchens, bathrooms) or become a subject matter expert in particular design styles or materials.

• Training and Development: Utilizing the tuition reimbursement and company training programs to deepen expertise in design, sales, or operations management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "II" in the title suggests a clear career progression path within Porcelanosa's sales and design structure. The emphasis on coaching junior staff indicates an opportunity to develop leadership skills, which is a crucial step towards management roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site, within a high-end retail showroom environment. This type of setting is typically designed to showcase products attractively and provide a comfortable, inspiring space for clients to explore design options.

Office Location(s): Vienna, Virginia. The showroom will be located in this area, providing accessibility for local clients and employees.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role requires close interaction with other sales consultants, showroom staff, and potentially design or operations managers. Teamwork is essential for managing showroom flow and customer needs.

• Tools and Technology: Access to a computer for data entry, order processing, and potentially design software. The showroom itself is a primary tool, requiring knowledge of product placement and display.

• Team Interaction: Frequent daily interaction with colleagues to coordinate client appointments, share product information, and manage showroom responsibilities.

Work Schedule:

• Requires availability for 8-hour shifts, with weekends being mandatory. Typical operating hours are 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM. This schedule is typical for retail environments aiming to capture customer traffic throughout the week and weekend.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is client-facing and product-focused, demanding a professional presentation and a keen eye for detail. The requirement for weekend work is a key factor for candidates to consider.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Application review to assess qualifications against the stated requirements, focusing on relevant experience and skills.

• Phone/Video Interview: A conversation with an HR representative or hiring manager to discuss background, motivation, and initial fit for the role and company culture. This stage may involve behavioral questions related to customer service and sales.

• In-Person Interview/Showroom Visit: A more in-depth interview, potentially including a practical assessment or a tour of the showroom. Candidates may be asked to present their portfolio or discuss their design approach and sales strategies. This stage will assess communication skills, presentation abilities, and cultural alignment.

• Potential Assessment: A case study or role-playing exercise simulating a client consultation or sales scenario might be used to evaluate practical skills.

• Final Interview/Offer: Discussions with senior management to finalize the decision and extend an offer.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Sales Success: Clearly highlight quantifiable achievements in sales volume, margin, or customer acquisition/retention. Use metrics and specific examples.

• Demonstrate Design Process: Present a logical flow for client consultations, from understanding needs to proposing solutions and closing sales. Use visual aids where appropriate.

• Highlight Client Interaction: Include examples of how you have managed customer service issues, resolved complaints, and built long-term client relationships.

• Tailor to Porcelanosa: Emphasize projects or experiences that align with Porcelanosa's product offerings, brand aesthetic, and commitment to quality and innovation.

• Conciseness and Clarity: Organize your portfolio for easy review, ensuring that key achievements and processes are readily understandable.

Challenge Preparation:

• Sales Scenarios: Be prepared to role-play a client consultation, demonstrating how you would identify needs, present products, overcome objections, and close a sale.

• Design Problem-Solving: Anticipate questions about how you would approach a specific design challenge, such as fitting a particular style into a challenging space or recommending materials for a specific application.

• Operational Efficiency: Consider how you would contribute to showroom operations, such as managing inventory, merchandising displays, or handling customer service issues efficiently.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is likely multi-stage, typical for roles that require client-facing skills and a blend of sales and operational responsibilities. A well-prepared portfolio and practice with sales scenarios are crucial for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CRM System: Likely a CRM such as Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics, or a proprietary system for managing customer data, tracking sales activities, and maintaining customer history.

• Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions, managing payments, and generating sales receipts.

• Design Software: Potentially AutoCAD, SketchUp, Revit, or specialized interior design software for creating designs, drawings, and 3D renderings for clients.

• Microsoft Office Suite / Google Workspace: For document creation (proposals, reports), spreadsheet analysis (sales budgets, margin tracking), and email communication.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales Reporting Tools: Internal reporting dashboards or software used to track key performance indicators (KPIs) such as sales volume, revenue, margin, conversion rates, and customer acquisition cost.

• Data Analysis: Ability to interpret sales data, customer feedback, and market trends to identify opportunities and inform sales strategies.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Database Management: Essential for maintaining accurate and up-to-date customer information, sales history, and contact preferences.

• Order Management Systems: To process, track, and manage customer orders from initial placement through delivery and fulfillment.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in a CRM system and basic office productivity tools is expected. Experience with design software would be a significant advantage. The role requires the ability to leverage technology for sales tracking, customer management, and operational efficiency.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Quality & Innovation: A core value, reflected in the high-end products offered and the company's history of innovation. Operations professionals are expected to uphold these standards in their work.

• Customer Focus: A strong emphasis on understanding and meeting client needs, ensuring exceptional service and satisfaction. This translates to a proactive and client-centric approach in all interactions.

• Integrity & Reliability: Operating with honesty and dependability in all business dealings, from sales transactions to customer service.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working effectively with colleagues to achieve shared goals, support each other, and contribute to a positive showroom environment.

• Professionalism: Maintaining a high standard of conduct, appearance, and communication, reflecting the premium nature of Porcelanosa products.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Working closely with sales, design, and potentially administrative teams to ensure seamless customer experiences and efficient showroom operations.

• Process Review & Feedback: An environment where processes are continuously evaluated for efficiency and effectiveness, with opportunities for feedback exchange among team members.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of product knowledge, sales techniques, and best practices among team members, particularly between senior and junior consultants.

📝 Enhancement Note: Porcelanosa's values emphasize a commitment to excellence, customer satisfaction, and teamwork. Operations professionals are expected to embody these principles in their daily tasks and interactions, contributing to a cohesive and high-performing team.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Meeting Sales Quotas: Consistently achieving ambitious sales targets in a competitive market requires strong sales skills, product knowledge, and effective client engagement.

• Managing Diverse Client Needs: Catering to a wide range of customer preferences, design styles, and budget constraints while maintaining brand integrity.

• High-Paced Showroom Environment: Effectively managing multiple client interactions, inquiries, and administrative tasks simultaneously without compromising service quality.

• Staying Current with Trends and Products: Continuously learning about new product lines, design trends, and industry innovations to provide expert advice.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Product Training: Comprehensive training on Porcelanosa's extensive product catalog, including materials, applications, and design possibilities.

• Sales Skills Enhancement: Opportunities to refine sales techniques, negotiation skills, and closing strategies through ongoing training and mentorship.

• Design Expertise: Deepening knowledge in interior design principles, material science, and aesthetic trends relevant to Porcelanosa's offerings.

• Tuition Reimbursement: Financial support for pursuing further education or certifications in design, business, or related fields.

• Mentorship: Learning from experienced design consultants and sales leaders within the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents opportunities for professional growth in sales, design, and customer relationship management. Addressing the challenges effectively will require proactive learning, strong organizational skills, and a dedication to client satisfaction.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to understanding a client's design needs and translating them into product recommendations." (Focus on active listening, probing questions, and product knowledge application.)

• "How do you handle a situation where a client has a specific design request that may not align with current trends or the best product application?" (Demonstrate diplomacy, expertise, and ability to educate clients.)

• "Walk me through your process for managing multiple client appointments and sales opportunities simultaneously." (Highlight time management, prioritization, and CRM usage.)

• "How do you stay updated on interior design trends and new product information?" (Show initiative in continuous learning.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Porcelanosa, and why are you interested in working for our company?" (Research company values, products, and market position.)

• "How do you contribute to a positive and collaborative team environment?" (Provide examples of teamwork and support for colleagues.)

• "Describe a time you had to handle a difficult customer complaint. How did you resolve it?" (Focus on problem-solving, empathy, and professionalism.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Quantify Achievements: For each project or role, present clear metrics demonstrating sales success (e.g., increased sales by X%, closed Y deals, achieved Z% of quota).

• Visualize Processes: Use flowcharts or diagrams to illustrate your sales process, client consultation methodology, or complaint resolution steps.

• Showcase Design Sensibility: Include high-quality images of past work, showroom displays you've designed, or mood boards that reflect your aesthetic and understanding of client needs.

• Tell a Story: For each portfolio piece, articulate the challenge, your solution, and the positive outcome (both for the client and the business).

• Be Prepared to Discuss: Be ready to answer detailed questions about your contributions, the tools you used, and the impact of your work.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of sales expertise, design acumen, operational awareness, and a customer-centric approach. The portfolio is a critical tool for showcasing these capabilities.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided ADP link: https://workforcenow.adp.com/mascsr/default/mdf/recruitment/recruitment.html?cid=b8a9c579-5bca-4b27-897d-d4cb773b18b1&jobId=920511

• Customize Your Resume: Highlight your experience in retail sales, interior design consulting, customer service, and any achievements related to sales targets, client satisfaction, or showroom operations. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a selection of your best work that showcases your design skills, sales achievements, and client management capabilities. Focus on projects with quantifiable results and clear process demonstrations.

• Practice Interview Responses: Rehearse answers to common interview questions, particularly those related to sales strategy, customer service, design problem-solving, and teamwork. Be ready to discuss your portfolio in detail.

• Research Porcelanosa: Familiarize yourself with Porcelanosa's product lines, brand values, and market positioning. Understand their commitment to quality and innovation, and how your skills align with their mission.

⚠️ 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.