Design Consultant - Los Angeles, CA

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Consultant

Company: Stoneside Blinds & Shades

Location: Los Angeles, CA

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Sales & Design Consulting

Date Posted: August 25, 2026

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on in-home consultative selling, combining design expertise with client relationship management to drive revenue for custom window treatments.

• The position emphasizes a strong performance-driven culture, targeting top sales performers with a passion for interior design and exceptional customer experiences.

• Candidates will manage pre-qualified leads and appointments, focusing on delivering personalized design solutions and ensuring client satisfaction from initial consultation through installation.

• The role requires significant local travel, offering autonomy and a dynamic work environment outside of a traditional office setting, aligning with GTM strategies that prioritize direct customer engagement.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Design Consultant," the core responsibilities and compensation structure (commission-based with high earning potential) strongly indicate this is a sales-focused role within the GTM function, specifically in field sales and customer engagement. The emphasis on "top sales performer" and "winning business" reinforces this classification. The "operations" aspect comes into play through the coordination with installation and operations teams for flawless delivery.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct in-home consultations with clients to understand their design vision, needs, and preferences for custom blinds, shades, and draperies.

• Leverage design expertise and product knowledge to inspire clients and recommend appropriate window treatment solutions that enhance both beauty and function.

• Accurately measure client spaces to ensure precise specifications for custom orders, minimizing errors and ensuring a perfect fit.

• Manage a pipeline of pre-qualified, scheduled appointments, focusing on consultative selling techniques to convert leads into sales.

• Maintain exceptional client relationships throughout the sales cycle, ensuring a seamless and positive customer experience from initial contact to post-installation follow-up.

• Collaborate effectively with internal installation and operations teams to ensure smooth project execution and client satisfaction.

• Stay informed about the latest design trends, product innovations, and competitive offerings within the window covering industry.

• Consistently meet or exceed established sales goals through a combination of passion, organization, creativity, and effective client engagement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of sales execution, client interaction, and operational coordination. The "partner with installation and operations teams" indicates a crucial touchpoint with the back-end operations that ensure service delivery. This requires strong communication and coordination skills, ensuring that sales commitments are met with seamless execution.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent required.

• A background or strong interest in interior design, architecture, or a related creative field is highly beneficial. Experience:

• Proven track record as a top sales performer (demonstrated by awards, documented results, or being in the top 10-20% of sales teams).

• Minimum of 2-5 years of experience in consultative selling, in-home sales, or luxury retail environments.

• Experience in design consulting or interior design is a significant plus. Required Skills:

• Consultative Selling: Ability to engage clients in meaningful conversations, understand their needs deeply, and offer tailored solutions.

• In-Home Sales Proficiency: Comfort and effectiveness conducting sales presentations and consultations within clients' homes.

• Design Acumen: A strong sense of aesthetics, an eye for detail, and the ability to translate client visions into tangible design recommendations.

• Client Relationship Management: Skill in building rapport, trust, and long-term relationships with diverse clientele.

• Sales Performance: Demonstrated ability to consistently meet and exceed sales targets.

• Time Management & Organization: Efficiently manage a schedule of appointments, travel, and follow-ups, especially with autonomous field work.

• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication, active listening, and professional presentation abilities.

• Self-Motivation: Proactive and driven to succeed with minimal direct supervision.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with CRM software for lead and client management.

• Knowledge of window treatment products, materials, and installation processes.

• Background in luxury goods or high-end home services.

• Familiarity with measurement techniques for custom installations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a "proven track record as a top sales performer" suggests the company values quantifiable results and candidates who can demonstrate consistent success in revenue generation. The "mid-level" experience aligns with this need for established sales professionals.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Sales Performance Documentation: Evidence of consistent achievement of sales targets, ideally presented with specific metrics, conversion rates, and average deal sizes. Case studies showcasing successful client engagements and problem-solving are highly valued.

• Design Consultation Examples: A portfolio showcasing a range of design solutions presented to clients, including visual representations (photos, mockups) of proposed window treatments and how they met client needs.

• Client Testimonials & Reviews: Documentation of positive client feedback, customer satisfaction metrics, or testimonials that highlight exceptional service and sales expertise.

• Process Flow Understanding: Ability to articulate how you manage the sales process from initial client contact through order placement and coordination with operational teams.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their personal sales process, including lead qualification, needs assessment, proposal generation, closing techniques, and post-sale follow-up.

• Understanding and articulating how to coordinate with operations and installation teams for successful project completion is crucial. This includes understanding the flow of information from sales to fulfillment.

• Demonstrate an ability to track and report on personal sales performance metrics, showcasing how data informs your approach to achieving goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a sales-focused role like this, a "portfolio" is less about traditional design projects and more about demonstrating sales success and client management capabilities. Candidates should prepare to showcase their sales achievements and client interaction strategies. The "operations" connection is through the coordination with installation and internal operations teams.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Base: $1,500 per week ($78,000 annually) during a 12-week paid training period.

• Commission: 100% commission-based after the training period.

• Estimated First-Year Earnings: $130,000+

• Top Performer Earnings: $185,000 - $200,000+

• Monthly Bonus Opportunity: $750+ based on customer reviews.

Benefits:

• W-2 employee status (not an independent contractor).

• Excellent health, dental, and vision insurance.

• Short-term and long-term disability coverage.

• Generous paid time off and paid holidays.

• 401(k) with employer match.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

• Participation in the Gain Share Program.

• Reimbursement for mileage, parking, and tolls.

• Company-provided tools: iPhone, laptop, and design sample kit. Working Hours:

• This is a full-time position. While specific hours are not detailed, the role involves scheduled appointments, typically averaging 2 appointments per day, with 3-5 hours of driving daily. Consultants typically work two Saturdays per month. The role offers flexibility in managing daily schedules within these parameters, emphasizing autonomous work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The compensation structure is heavily commission-driven, with a substantial earning potential. The base salary during training is a key indicator of investment in new hires. The benefits package is comprehensive, typical of a W-2 employee position, which is a significant differentiator from contract roles. Los Angeles, CA, has a high cost of living; the projected earnings are competitive for a sales role in this market.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Home Furnishings / Window Coverings / Interior Design Retail

Company Size: The description mentions operations in 13 major U.S. markets and a 15-20% annual growth trajectory, suggesting a mid-to-large sized company with a national presence. LinkedIn data typically shows companies of this scale having 200-1000+ employees.

Founded: 16 years ago, indicating a well-established company with a proven business model.

Team Structure:

• The role operates with significant autonomy, with consultants managing their own schedules and client interactions.

• The reporting structure likely involves a Sales Manager or Regional Sales Director who oversees performance and provides guidance.

• Close collaboration is expected with internal installation teams and operations departments to ensure successful project delivery and customer satisfaction. Methodology:

• Client-Centric Approach: The company prioritizes a "five-star experience" for clients, emphasizing personalized service and high-quality solutions.

• Data-Driven Performance: While not explicitly detailed for sales consultants, the company's recognition for customer reviews and growth trajectory suggests a focus on performance metrics and continuous improvement.

• Field-Based Operations: The business model relies heavily on field consultants interacting directly with customers in their homes, supported by robust back-end operations for fulfillment.

Company Website: stoneside.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Stoneside positions itself as a customer-centric organization that also values its employees. The emphasis on "people first" and high employee ratings indicates a supportive, though performance-oriented, culture. The company's growth and national presence suggest a stable and expanding organization.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level:

• This role is positioned as a Field Sales Consultant, a mid-level position focused on direct client engagement and revenue generation. It requires a blend of sales acumen, design sensibility, and client management skills. The emphasis is on individual performance and achieving sales targets within a defined territory. Reporting Structure:

• Consultants typically report to a Sales Manager or similar leadership role responsible for overseeing a team of field sales professionals. This manager provides coaching, performance feedback, and support to help consultants achieve their goals. Operations Impact:

• The Design Consultant plays a critical role in the GTM (Go-To-Market) strategy by directly acquiring new customers and driving revenue. Their success in understanding client needs and closing sales directly impacts the company's top-line growth.

• Effective collaboration with installation and operations teams ensures that the sales promise is met with quality service delivery, impacting customer satisfaction, retention, and positive reviews, which in turn fuel future lead generation. Growth Opportunities:

• Sales Leadership: Advancement to Senior Design Consultant, Sales Team Lead, or Sales Manager roles, overseeing teams and strategic sales initiatives.

• Specialization: Development into specialized roles focusing on high-value clients, specific product lines, or B2B sales opportunities.

• Training & Development: Access to ongoing product training, sales methodology workshops, and potentially design certifications to enhance expertise.

• Transfer Opportunities: Potential to move into other roles within the company's expanding markets or different departments, leveraging acquired sales and client management skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path clearly leans towards sales progression. While the role interacts with operations, it's not an operational role itself but rather a key GTM function that relies on operational excellence for delivery. Growth opportunities are primarily within sales leadership or specialized sales tracks.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type:

• This is predominantly a field-based role. Consultants work independently in client homes and spend a significant portion of their time traveling within their local service area.

• While there isn't a traditional office to report to daily, the company provides essential tools (laptop, iPhone, sample kit) and conducts paid, in-person training at their Denver HQ. Office Location(s):

• The role is based in Los Angeles, CA. Consultants will travel locally within this metropolitan area and surrounding regions to meet with clients.

• Candidates are required to reside within 30 minutes of the city center. Workspace Context:

• The primary workspace is the client's home, requiring professionalism, adaptability, and a client-focused approach.

• Consultants are equipped with company-provided technology (laptop, iPhone) and a design sample kit, enabling them to conduct professional consultations anywhere.

• The role fosters independence and autonomy, allowing consultants to manage their own daily schedule and workflow, supported by remote communication and resources. Work Schedule:

• Full-time position. The schedule is dynamic, centered around client appointments.

• Consultants typically have 2 appointments per day, with an average of 3-5 hours of driving daily.

• A key aspect of the schedule is working approximately two Saturdays per month, with the remainder of the week offering flexibility in managing appointments and travel.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is highly autonomous and field-oriented, appealing to individuals who prefer not to be desk-bound. The provision of tools and support from HQ signifies that while independent, consultants are not isolated. The schedule requires flexibility, particularly regarding weekend availability.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a phone or video call with an HR representative or recruiter to assess basic qualifications, interest, and cultural fit.

• Sales Manager Interview: A more in-depth interview with a Sales Manager to evaluate sales experience, consultative selling skills, design aptitude, and understanding of the role's demands. This stage may involve scenario-based questions.

• Portfolio Review/Presentation: Candidates may be asked to present examples of their sales success, design recommendations, or client management strategies. This could be a formal presentation or a discussion of past achievements.

• Field Ride-Along (Potentially): In some sales roles, a final stage might involve accompanying a top performer on appointments to observe firsthand the daily operations and client interactions.

• Final Interview/Offer: A final discussion, potentially with higher-level management, followed by an offer for the W-2 position.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Achievements: For sales roles, focus on metrics. Prepare to discuss your sales figures, conversion rates, average deal size, and how you achieved them. Use specific examples and data.

• Showcase Client Focus: Highlight instances where you went above and beyond for a client, resolved issues effectively, or built strong, lasting relationships.

• Illustrate Design Sensibility: If possible, include visual examples of projects you've worked on or design concepts you've developed. Even if not formal design work, demonstrating an understanding of aesthetics is key.

• Explain Your Process: Be ready to articulate your structured approach to sales, from lead management to closing and post-sale follow-up, including how you coordinate with other teams.

• Tailor to Stoneside: Research Stoneside's values, mission, and market position. Frame your experience and portfolio items to align with their customer-centric approach and focus on high-quality design.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for behavioral questions assessing your ability to handle difficult clients, manage time effectively, work autonomously, and overcome sales objections.

• Anticipate questions about your sales philosophy, how you stay motivated, and your understanding of the consultative sales process.

• Practice articulating your value proposition clearly and concisely, focusing on how you can contribute to Stoneside's revenue goals and customer satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to assess sales capability, client-facing skills, and alignment with the company's performance-driven, customer-first culture. Preparation should focus on demonstrating quantifiable sales success and a strong understanding of the in-home consultative sales model.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CRM System: Likely a robust CRM (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot, or a proprietary system) for managing leads, client interactions, sales pipeline, and performance tracking. Candidates should be proficient in using CRM for daily sales activities.

• Mobile Device: Company-provided iPhone for communication, scheduling, accessing CRM, and potentially using specialized apps.

• Laptop: Company-provided laptop for accessing resources, design tools, and communication platforms.

• Design Sample Kit: A physical kit containing samples of blinds, shades, and drapery materials, essential for in-home client consultations.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Consultants will likely use CRM reporting features to track personal sales performance, conversion rates, and pipeline status.

• Customer review platforms (mentioned in benefits) are also a key metric for success. CRM & Automation:

• Proficiency in a CRM is crucial for managing the sales cycle. Automation features within the CRM might assist with follow-up reminders or lead nurturing.

• The company likely utilizes internal systems for order processing and coordination with installation teams, requiring consultants to accurately input and manage order details.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this role is not a traditional "operations" role in terms of system administration, proficiency with CRM and mobile technology is essential for effective sales execution and coordination with internal operational processes. The tools provided are standard for a mobile sales role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Honesty: Emphasized as being truthful and straightforward in all interactions, crucial for building client trust.

• Positivity: Bringing a respectful and positive energy, vital for client consultations and team collaboration.

• Generosity: An abundance mindset, seeking win-win outcomes for clients, the company, and potentially team members.

• Continuous Improvement: A commitment to seeking and implementing better ways of working, applicable to sales strategies and client service.

• Passion: Genuine engagement and focus on delivering the company's core promise of a five-star experience.

Collaboration Style:

• Independent Autonomy: Consultants are expected to manage their own schedules and client interactions effectively.

• Cross-Functional Partnership: Strong collaboration is required with installation and operations teams to ensure seamless service delivery and client satisfaction. This involves clear communication and coordination.

• Performance-Oriented: The culture appears to be driven by high performance, with a focus on achieving sales targets and customer satisfaction metrics.

• Supportive Environment: Despite the performance focus, the company emphasizes a "people-first" culture with high employee ratings, suggesting a supportive atmosphere and encouragement for growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is built around core values that guide client and internal interactions. The emphasis on "Honesty," "Positivity," and "Generosity" directly impacts how consultants should approach client relationships and internal collaboration. The "Continuous Improvement" value suggests an openness to feedback and evolving sales strategies.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Commission-Based Income: Transitioning to or consistently performing in a 100% commission role can be challenging, requiring strong self-discipline and consistent sales performance.

• Managing Field Work: Balancing travel time, appointment scheduling, and client needs across a designated territory requires excellent time management and organizational skills.

• Client Expectations: Meeting diverse client needs and design preferences while adhering to product capabilities and company standards.

• Competition: Operating in a competitive market for home improvement and interior design services.

• Coordination with Operations: Ensuring seamless handoffs and communication with installation teams to maintain the promised client experience.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Sales Training: Comprehensive paid training at HQ covering product knowledge, sales techniques, and company processes.

• Product Expertise: Continuous learning about new window treatment products, materials, and design trends.

• Sales Skill Enhancement: Opportunities to refine consultative selling, negotiation, and client relationship management skills through coaching and practical experience.

• Career Advancement: Potential to move into sales leadership, management, or specialized sales roles within the expanding company.

• Industry Exposure: Gaining deep experience in the home furnishings and interior design sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenge is the commission-based compensation, which requires a high level of sales proficiency and resilience. Growth opportunities are well-defined within the sales career path, offering a clear progression for successful consultants.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to consultative selling. How do you uncover a client's true needs and tailor solutions?" (Focus on active listening, needs assessment, and solution-oriented recommendations.)

• "Walk me through a time you had to overcome significant objections from a client to close a sale. What was your strategy?" (Highlight problem-solving, empathy, and persuasive communication.)

• "How do you manage your daily schedule and prioritize tasks when working independently in the field, especially with travel involved?" (Emphasize organization, time blocking, and proactive planning.)

• "Describe your experience coordinating with installation or operations teams to ensure a project's success. What communication strategies do you employ?" (Focus on clear communication, setting expectations, and collaborative problem-solving.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Stoneside Blinds & Shades, and why are you interested in working with us?" (Research the company's mission, values, market position, and customer reviews. Align your interest with their strengths.)

• "How do you embody our core values of Honesty, Positivity, Generosity, Continuous Improvement, and Passion in your work?" (Prepare specific examples for each value.)

• "What is your experience with in-home sales or design consulting, and what do you enjoy most about it?" (Showcase passion for client interaction and design.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Quantify Your Success: Prepare charts or slides showing your sales performance (e.g., revenue generated, conversion rates, quota attainment).

• Showcase Client Wins: Present 1-2 detailed case studies of successful client projects, explaining the client's initial problem, your proposed solution, and the positive outcome. Include any client testimonials if available.

• Demonstrate Your Process: Clearly outline your sales process from lead to close, highlighting how you manage client relationships and coordinate with other teams.

• Visual Appeal: If presenting design concepts, ensure they are visually appealing and clearly communicate your design recommendations.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong sales track record, consultative selling skills, ability to work autonomously in the field, and alignment with Stoneside's values. The portfolio should be a tangible representation of these capabilities.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Consultant position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on rippling.com.

• Portfolio Preparation: Compile examples of your sales achievements (metrics, awards) and any design-related work or client success stories that demonstrate your consultative selling approach.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly highlights your sales performance, client management experience, and any background in design or luxury retail. Use keywords from the job description like "consultative selling," "in-home sales," and "client satisfaction."

• Interview Practice: Rehearse answers to common sales and behavioral interview questions, focusing on quantifying your achievements and illustrating your fit with Stoneside's values and culture. Be ready to articulate your sales process and how you collaborate with operational teams.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Stoneside Blinds & Shades, focusing on their mission, values, customer reviews, and market position. Understand their "five-star experience" philosophy.

⚠️ 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.