Design Consultant III

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Consultant III

Company: One Workplace

Location: Oakland, California, United States (Hybrid)

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Design & Architecture Operations

Date Posted: April 16, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid (On-site 3 days/week)

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on developing and executing creative interior space solutions, acting as a key design consultant for clients.

• It involves significant customer engagement, from initial discovery and co-creation sessions to design validation and final installation, requiring strong client relationship management skills.

• The position demands autonomous project ownership, requiring individuals to manage projects from inception through completion, including budgeting, specification, and documentation.

• This is a career-level position that contributes to the company's reputation for delivering insightful and innovative workspaces leveraging the latest technology.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Design Consultant III," the responsibilities and requirements point towards a role that bridges design expertise with project management and client-facing operations within the context of interior design and workspace solutions. This role is crucial for translating client needs into tangible, functional, and aesthetically pleasing environments, directly impacting client satisfaction and project success. The emphasis on "autonomous project ownership" and "shaping the customer experience" aligns with operational excellence in client service delivery.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive product research and liaise with vendors to obtain pricing and product information, ensuring cost-effectiveness and suitability for client projects.

• Engage deeply with clients through surveys, interviews, data collection, and observations to fully understand their needs, challenges, and business objectives.

• Facilitate dynamic design discovery and co-creation sessions with project stakeholders to foster collaboration and align on design direction.

• Participate in creative problem-solving and assist with creative engagements and workshops to generate innovative design concepts.

• Perform detailed field measurements and conduct inventory of existing products to inform new design specifications and ensure seamless integration.

• Specify furniture, finishes, and other interior elements required per final design layouts, ensuring aesthetic coherence and functional requirements are met.

• Produce and professionally present compelling design concepts, proposals, and validation packages to customers, articulating the vision and rationale.

• Generate, organize, and maintain CAD/CET files, ensuring accuracy and adherence to design standards throughout the project lifecycle.

• Develop detailed furniture block plans, space plans, finish palettes, furniture specifications, and installation drawings, including revisions and plotting.

• Create, manage, and monitor project budgets, including estimating budgetary hours and tracking actual hours spent to ensure profitability and client satisfaction.

• Take ownership of individual tasks, overall project results, and client outcomes, actively shaping a positive customer experience through proactive communication and problem-solving.

• Attend industry events and actively participate in peer networking opportunities to stay abreast of trends and foster professional development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical design execution, client management, and project administration. The emphasis on "autonomous project ownership" and "shaping the customer experience" suggests that this role requires proactive initiative, strong communication, and a results-oriented approach, mirroring key operational competencies in client-centric service delivery.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Interior or Architectural Design.

• Associate’s degree from a two-year college will be considered with at least 5 years of relevant design experience.

Experience:

• A minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in interior design, architectural design, or a related field is required.

• Prior experience with system furniture products is considered a significant asset.

Required Skills:

• Professional proficiency in AutoCAD and SketchUp for design development and documentation.

• Strong understanding of commercial furniture products and systems furnishings, including specification and application.

• Ability to conduct field measurements and inventory existing products accurately.

• Excellent customer engagement skills, with a focus on understanding client needs and facilitating co-creation sessions.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

• Demonstrated ability in creative problem-solving and adapting to ambiguous situations.

• Strong time management and multitasking abilities, with the capacity to manage multiple projects and deliverables concurrently.

Preferred Skills:

• Professional proficiency in CET Designer, 20/20 CAP, Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.

• Knowledge of ancillary, residential furnishings, and décor.

• Understanding of building codes, regulations, and ADA compliance.

• Experience in generating and managing design budgets and proposals.

• Aptitude for storytelling and problem-finding/discovery.

• Familiarity with biophilia, cognition, and perception principles in design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a strong foundation in design principles and software, coupled with practical experience in furniture specification and client interaction. The preference for specific software (CET Designer, Adobe Suite) and professional certifications (NCIDQ, LEED AP) indicates a desire for candidates who are not only creative but also technically adept and committed to professional development within the design and operations field.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated portfolio showcasing a range of interior design projects, with a strong emphasis on commercial spaces and system furniture applications.

• Evidence of design discovery and co-creation processes, demonstrating how client needs were translated into design solutions.

• Detailed examples of space planning, furniture specification, and finish palette development for diverse project types.

Process Documentation:

• Examples of project documentation, including CAD/CET files, space plans, furniture specification sheets, and installation drawings.

• Demonstrations of how design budgets and hours were estimated, managed, and monitored throughout the project lifecycle.

• Case studies illustrating the process of engaging with clients, facilitating workshops, and validating design concepts.

• Evidence of research conducted on products and vendors, including how information was gathered and utilized in the design process.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Consultant role, a robust portfolio is paramount. It's not just about the final aesthetic but the process and operational execution behind it. Candidates should be prepared to articulate their design methodology, project management approach, and how they ensure efficiency and client satisfaction within the defined project scope and budget. Demonstrating proficiency with specific design software and an understanding of furniture systems will be key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $85,000 - $105,000 Annually The base salary will be determined based on your location, experience, and the pay of employees in similar positions. Actual total compensation will be dependent upon the individual's skills, experience, and qualifications.

Benefits:

• 15 days of Paid Time Off (PTO)

• 9 Paid Holidays

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance coverage

• Profit Sharing opportunities

• 401k plan with Employer Match

• Paid Parental Leave

Working Hours:

• Typically 40 hours per week.

• Hybrid work arrangement requires 3 days on-site per week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is competitive for a Design Consultant III role in the SFBA region, reflecting the experience level and the hybrid work model. The benefits package is comprehensive, offering standard insurance, retirement savings with a match, and additional perks like PTO, holidays, and a wellness program, which are attractive to professionals seeking a balanced work environment.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Interior Design, Furniture, Workspace Solutions, Architecture

Company Size: Approximately 201-500 employees (based on typical industry classifications for companies with this employee count).

Founded: Over 100 years ago, indicating a long-standing history and established presence in the market.

Team Structure:

• The Design Consultant III will likely be part of a larger Design or Project Management team, potentially collaborating with Sales, Project Coordinators, Installation teams, and Account Managers.

• Reporting structure will likely be to a Design Manager, Director of Design, or Senior Project Manager, depending on the team's specialization.

Methodology:

• Data Analysis & Insights: Utilizes client surveys, site observations, and needs assessments to gather data that informs design decisions and identifies pain points for workspace optimization.

• Workflow Planning & Optimization: Manages projects from initial concept to final installation, optimizing workflows to ensure timely delivery, adherence to budget, and client satisfaction.

• Automation & Efficiency Practices: Leverages design software (CAD, CET Designer) for efficient creation of plans and specifications, aiming to streamline the design and documentation process.

Company Website: http://www.oneworkplace.com/careers

📝 Enhancement Note: One Workplace's century-long history suggests a stable and experienced organization. The emphasis on "empathetic leaders," "diversification of talent," and "inclusion" indicates a company culture that values personal growth and a supportive work environment. The hybrid model reflects a modern approach to work, balancing in-office collaboration with remote flexibility.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is classified as a "career level" position, signifying a mid-to-senior level of expertise. It requires a blend of technical design skills, project management capabilities, and client-facing acumen. The "III" designation suggests progression within a defined career path.

Reporting Structure: Typically, a Design Consultant III would report to a Design Manager, Director of Design, or a Senior Project Lead. This structure allows for mentorship and oversight while granting significant autonomy in project execution.

Operations Impact: The Design Consultant III plays a critical role in the end-to-end client experience within One Workplace's Go-To-Market (GTM) strategy. By translating client needs into functional and inspiring workspaces, they directly influence client satisfaction, repeat business, and brand perception. Successful project delivery, on time and within budget, is a key operational metric contributing to revenue generation and profitability.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Potential to move into senior design roles, specialize in specific project types (e.g., healthcare, education), or transition into project management leadership.

• Leadership Development: Opportunities to mentor junior designers or support staff, take on lead roles on larger or more complex projects, and contribute to process improvement initiatives.

• Industry Specialization: Pursuing advanced certifications (LEED AP, WELL AP, EDAC) can lead to specialization in sustainable design, wellness-focused environments, or evidence-based design, opening doors to niche markets and higher-value projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a strong stepping stone for individuals looking to build a career in workspace design and execution. The combination of design, client management, and project oversight provides a well-rounded experience that prepares candidates for leadership positions in operations-focused design firms or corporate real estate departments.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid work model, with 3 days on-site and 2 days remote. This suggests a modern office environment designed for collaboration, client meetings, and focused individual work.

Office Location(s): SFBA, Oakland, Santa Clara, San Francisco. This indicates potential for work across multiple company locations within the San Francisco Bay Area, offering flexibility in terms of commute and project assignment.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The office is likely equipped with meeting rooms, co-creation spaces, and workstations designed to facilitate teamwork and client presentations.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to industry-standard design software (AutoCAD, SketchUp, CET Designer), potentially high-performance workstations, and collaborative digital platforms.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular interaction with design colleagues, sales teams, project coordinators, and leadership, fostering a supportive and knowledge-sharing culture.

Work Schedule: Standard 40-hour work week with hybrid flexibility. This allows for structured workdays while accommodating personal needs, aligning with the company's commitment to employee well-being.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of this role, combined with multiple office locations, offers a degree of flexibility. Candidates should be comfortable working in a dynamic environment where collaboration is key, but also be self-motivated and organized to manage their remote workdays effectively. Understanding the specific office culture and team dynamics at each location would be beneficial.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio by the HR/Recruiting team to assess basic qualifications and alignment with the role.

2. Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the hiring manager (e.g., Design Manager) to delve deeper into your experience, design philosophy, and project management approach. Be prepared to discuss specific projects from your portfolio.

3. Design Challenge/Portfolio Presentation: You may be asked to present a selection of your portfolio projects, detailing your process, problem-solving strategies, and the impact of your designs. This is where you demonstrate your "storytelling" and "problem-finding/discovery" skills.

4. Team/Cross-Functional Interview: An interview with potential team members or cross-functional partners (e.g., Sales, Project Coordination) to assess cultural fit, collaboration style, and ability to work within a team environment.

5. Final Interview/Offer: A final discussion with senior leadership, potentially involving a review of your overall candidacy and alignment with One Workplace's values, followed by an offer.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-5 projects that best represent your skills in space planning, furniture specification, client engagement, and problem-solving for commercial environments.

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the client's challenge, your design process (discovery, ideation, validation), the solutions you implemented, and the positive outcomes or impact.

• Highlight Operations: Emphasize how you managed budgets, timelines, vendor relations, and the overall project lifecycle. Showcase your ability to drive efficiency and deliver results.

• Showcase Software Proficiency: Include examples that demonstrate your skill with AutoCAD, SketchUp, and ideally CET Designer or other relevant software.

• Address Hybrid Work: If possible, include examples of projects where you successfully managed client relationships or design processes remotely or in a hybrid capacity.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the "Why": Be ready to explain the rationale behind your design choices, linking them to client objectives and business outcomes.

• Process Focus: Prepare to discuss your approach to design discovery, stakeholder engagement, and problem-solving in detail.

• Metrics & Impact: Quantify your achievements where possible (e.g., budget savings, efficiency improvements, positive client feedback).

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to evaluate both creative talent and operational execution. Candidates should prepare to articulate not just what they designed, but how they achieved it, emphasizing their project management skills, client communication, and ability to deliver successful outcomes within operational constraints.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: AutoCAD (required) for technical drawings and drafting.

• 3D Modeling Software: SketchUp (required) for conceptualization and visualization.

• Specialized Furniture Design Software: CET Designer or 20/20 CAP (desired) for detailed furniture specification, space planning, and rendering within specific vendor systems.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Excel for budgeting and data management, Word for documentation, PowerPoint for presentations.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary data analytics role, proficiency in Excel for creating specification sheets, budget tracking spreadsheets, and project summary reports is essential.

CRM & Automation:

• Familiarity with CRM systems for managing client interactions and project pipelines may be beneficial, though not explicitly listed.

• Understanding of how design software integrates with broader project management or ERP systems could be an advantage.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in industry-standard design software is a baseline requirement. The desired proficiency in CET Designer or similar tools, common in the contract furniture industry, indicates a need for candidates who can quickly become productive with One Workplace's specific product catalogs and design tools. This highlights the operational efficiency expected in design execution.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Dedication to meeting and exceeding the expectations of internal and external customers, by actively listening, problem-solving, and ensuring a positive experience.

• Innovation & Curiosity: A drive for continuous learning and exploring new design ideas, technologies, and approaches to create insightful and forward-thinking workspaces.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Valuing collective effort, clear communication, and mutual support to achieve project goals and contribute to a positive team dynamic.

• Integrity & Accountability: Taking ownership of tasks and projects, delivering on commitments, and maintaining high standards of professionalism and ethical conduct.

• Adaptability & Resilience: Thriving in a fast-paced, sometimes ambiguous environment, embracing change, and demonstrating composure under pressure.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively partners with sales, project management, and installation teams to ensure seamless project execution from concept to completion.

• Stakeholder Communication: Maintains open and clear communication channels with clients, vendors, and internal teams, providing regular updates and managing expectations effectively.

• Process Improvement Culture: Open to feedback and suggestions for refining design and project management processes to enhance efficiency and outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: One Workplace's stated values of empathy, innovation, and inclusion are reflected in the emphasis on customer focus, collaboration, and adaptability. Candidates who can demonstrate these values in their approach to design and project execution will likely be a strong cultural fit.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creativity with Constraints: Effectively translating creative design visions into practical, budget-conscious, and technically feasible solutions that meet client requirements.

• Managing Ambiguity & Fast Pace: Navigating evolving project scopes, client priorities, and tight deadlines in a dynamic work environment.

• Client Relationship Management: Building and maintaining strong, trust-based relationships with clients, managing expectations, and resolving conflicts proactively.

• Technology Adoption: Staying current with evolving design software, industry trends, and new product technologies to maintain a competitive edge.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Software Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in CET Designer, Adobe Creative Suite, and other specialized tools relevant to workspace design.

• Industry Certifications: Support for pursuing and maintaining professional certifications like NCIDQ, LEED AP, WELL AP, enhancing specialization and career progression.

• Project Management Skills: Development in areas such as budgeting, scheduling, resource allocation, and risk management through hands-on project experience.

• Mentorship Programs: Potential for mentorship from senior designers or project leaders to guide career development and skill enhancement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents opportunities for substantial professional growth by tackling complex design and project challenges. Candidates who are proactive in seeking learning opportunities and embrace continuous improvement will find this role rewarding.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex design challenge you faced on a commercial project and how you creatively solved it while managing budget and timeline constraints." (Focus on problem-solving, resourcefulness, and operational efficiency.)

• "How do you approach the initial design discovery phase with a new client? Walk me through your process for understanding their needs and goals." (Highlight client engagement, data gathering, and early-stage project planning.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What specifically about One Workplace's approach to workspace design and company culture appeals to you?" (Research their mission, values, and recent projects.)

• "How do you see yourself contributing to a collaborative and inclusive team environment?" (Align your personal values with the company's stated culture.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: For each chosen project, present: Problem/Client Brief -> Your Role & Process -> Design Solution -> Key Challenges & How You Overcame Them -> Final Outcome/Impact.

• Visuals: Use high-quality renderings, floor plans, specification sheets, and potentially photos of the finished space.

• Narrative: Focus on storytelling. Explain the "why" behind your decisions, emphasizing how your design addressed the client's needs and delivered value.

• Operations Focus: Explicitly mention how you managed budget, schedule, vendor coordination, and ensured successful installation. Quantify where possible.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of creative vision and practical, operations-minded execution. Be ready to discuss not just the aesthetics, but the entire process of delivering a successful project from start to finish.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Consultant III position:

• Submit your application through the One Workplace careers portal (http://www.oneworkplace.com/careers) via the provided job link.

• Portfolio Customization: Curate your portfolio to highlight 3-5 relevant projects that best showcase your experience in commercial interior design, space planning, furniture specification, client engagement, and project management. Tailor your presentation to emphasize your process, problem-solving abilities, and operational execution.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly outlines your experience with the required software (AutoCAD, SketchUp) and desired tools (CET Designer), your years of experience, and any relevant certifications. Use keywords from the job description, such as "space planning," "furniture specification," "client engagement," and "project management."

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, project management approach, and problem-solving strategies. Prepare specific examples from your portfolio to illustrate your skills and experiences, focusing on how you drive project success and client satisfaction.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research One Workplace's mission, values, recent projects, and company culture. Understand their approach to workspace design and how you can contribute to their goals.

⚠️ 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.