Design Consultant & Salesperson, Residential Remodeling

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Consultant & Salesperson, Residential Remodeling Company: Neil Kelly Company Inc Location: Seattle, WA, US Job Type: Full Time Category: Sales & Design Operations Date Posted: 2026-02-18T20:33:00 Experience Level: 5-10 years Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is crucial for driving revenue growth by identifying and closing new residential remodeling opportunities within the Seattle metro area, leveraging design expertise and sales acumen.
• It involves acting as the primary client-facing representative, managing the end-to-end sales cycle from initial consultation through project handoff for design and execution.
• The position requires close collaboration with Project Managers, Design Associates, and Carpenters to ensure seamless project delivery and exceptional client satisfaction, directly impacting project success and company reputation.
• Success in this role is measured by achieving sales targets, fostering strong client relationships, and contributing to the company's award-winning reputation in design and craftsmanship.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title includes "Salesperson," the core of the role is a hybrid of sales and design consultancy within the residential remodeling sector. This is not a typical Revenue Operations or Sales Operations role focused on back-end systems and processes, but rather a client-facing sales and design function that generates revenue. The "Operations" category is applied broadly to encompass the operational aspects of managing client relationships, project lifecycles from a sales perspective, and collaborating with operational teams like Project Management.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct initial client consultations to deeply understand their vision, needs, and project scope for residential remodeling projects, including kitchens, baths, home additions, and new construction.
• Develop and present compelling project proposals, estimates, and design concepts that align with client expectations and company capabilities, effectively selling projects and closing deals.
• Manage the sales pipeline proactively, from lead generation and qualification through proposal refinement and contract finalization, ensuring timely follow-up and relationship nurturing.
• Collaborate closely with Project Managers, Design Associates, and construction teams to ensure accurate project scoping, realistic timeline setting, and seamless transition from sales to execution.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients throughout the sales and initial design phases, ensuring clear communication, managing expectations, and fostering strong, lasting client relationships.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, design best practices, construction methodologies, and local market conditions to provide expert advice and innovative solutions to clients.
• Contribute to the company's sales targets by consistently meeting or exceeding individual sales quotas and revenue goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The raw description emphasizes client interaction, design, and sales. We've inferred responsibilities related to sales pipeline management, proposal development, and collaboration with internal teams, which are standard for a sales-focused role with a design component. The emphasis on "selling projects" and "closing deals" clearly positions this as a revenue-generating role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Interior Design, Interior Architecture, Housing Design, or a closely related field is required.
• Professional certifications such as NKBA (National Kitchen and Bath Association) are considered a significant advantage.

Experience:

• A minimum of 5 years of dedicated experience in residential home, kitchen, and bath design, with a strong understanding of cabinetry and material selection.
• A proven track record of at least 2 years in sales, demonstrating success in closing deals, managing client relationships, and growing a client base.
• Demonstrated understanding of the construction process; prior experience in residential construction is highly preferred.
• Experience managing multiple projects simultaneously and consistently meeting deadlines.

Required Skills:

• Design Expertise: Proficient in residential interior design, with specialized knowledge in kitchen and bath remodeling, cabinetry, and material specifications.
• Sales Acumen: Strong sales skills, including lead qualification, proposal generation, negotiation, closing techniques, and client acquisition.
• Client Relationship Management: Exceptional customer service and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport, understand client needs, and manage expectations effectively.
• Project Scoping & Estimation: Ability to translate client visions into tangible project scopes and contribute to accurate cost estimations.
• Construction Knowledge: Solid understanding of residential construction processes, materials, and timelines.
• Portfolio Development: Ability to showcase a portfolio of built design work that demonstrates design sensibility and successful project execution.
• Time Management: Proficient in managing multiple projects and priorities concurrently to meet deadlines.

Preferred Skills:

• NKBA certification.
• Experience running an independent residential design business.
• Direct experience designing and/or selling Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and new construction projects.
• Familiarity with design software for visualization and proposal generation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "What You Bring" section directly translates into required skills. We've categorized them for clarity and added "Project Scoping & Estimation" and "Construction Knowledge" as crucial skills derived from the responsibilities and experience requirements. "Portfolio Development" is highlighted as a key skill given the explicit requirement for a portfolio.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a range of successfully completed residential remodeling projects, with a strong emphasis on kitchen and bath designs.
• Demonstration of design problem-solving skills, illustrating how client challenges were addressed through creative and practical design solutions.
• Evidence of the candidate's direct involvement in the sales process, including how projects were initially secured and client relationships were established.
• Visual documentation that clearly communicates the design aesthetic, functionality, and quality of the finished projects.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates are expected to articulate their design and sales process, from initial client contact and needs assessment to project proposal and closing.
• The ability to describe how they collaborate with internal teams (Project Managers, Design Associates, Carpenters) to ensure seamless project handoff and execution.
• Understanding of how to incorporate client feedback throughout the design and sales phases to ensure satisfaction and alignment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a "portfolio showcasing built design work" is expanded. We've inferred that this portfolio should not only display design skills but also evidence of sales success and process management within the remodeling context. This section focuses on how candidates should present their experience and capabilities in a structured manner, aligning with typical operations expectations for demonstrating process proficiency.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• The provided range is $90,000 - $180,000 annually.
• Base Salary: $4,000 per month ($48,000 annually).
• Training Salary: $5,000 per month ($60,000 annually) for the first six months to support ramp-up.
• Commission: Commissions are earned from the start of employment, both during training and ongoing.
• On-Target Earnings (OTE): Established Design Consultants typically earn between $90,000 and $180,000+ annually, with the average exceeding $100,000 per year.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance package including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for confidential support.
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) for pre-tax healthcare and dependent care expenses.
• Generous paid time off, including holidays, sick days, and vacation time.
• Cell phone stipend to support communication needs.
• Long-term disability and life insurance for financial security.
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with company contributions.
• Optional benefits such as Short-Term Disability, Legal Insurance, Pet Insurance, Accident Insurance, and Hospital Indemnity Insurance.

Working Hours:

• This is a full-time position, typically expected to align with standard business hours and project demands, estimated at 40 hours per week. Flexibility may be required to accommodate client meetings and project timelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary information was directly extracted. We've structured it to clarify the base, training, and commission components, providing a clearer picture of the earning potential. The benefits are listed as provided, with brief explanations where appropriate. The working hours are inferred from "Full Time" and typical industry standards.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Residential Remodeling & Construction. Neil Kelly operates within a competitive market, distinguishing itself through award-winning design, craftsmanship, and a commitment to sustainability and community engagement. Company Size: Neil Kelly is a well-established company, likely falling into the medium to large business category within the construction and remodeling sector. This size suggests a stable infrastructure, established processes, and a robust team, while still maintaining a degree of personal connection and collaborative environment. Founded: Founded in 1947, Neil Kelly has a long-standing history of over 75 years, indicating a deep understanding of the industry, a stable business model, and a strong brand reputation built over decades.

Team Structure:

• The Design Consultant works within a collaborative team structure that includes Project Managers, Design Associates, and Carpenters, facilitating comprehensive project execution.
• Reporting likely flows through a Sales Manager or Design Director, with direct client interaction forming the core of the role's external relationships.
• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, requiring strong communication and coordination between sales, design, and production teams to deliver seamless client experiences.

Methodology:

• Neil Kelly emphasizes an award-winning approach to design, suggesting a focus on creativity, innovation, and client-centric solutions.
• The company's commitment to sustainability and its certification as a B Corporation indicate a methodology that values environmental responsibility and ethical business practices.
• Workflow planning and optimization are crucial, ensuring efficient project lifecycles from initial client engagement through design, estimation, and construction completion.

Company Website: https://www.neilkelly.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Company information was directly extracted. The "Methodology" section infers operational approaches based on the company's stated values (B Corp, sustainability, award-winning design) and the nature of the role (collaboration, process). This section aims to provide context on how operations are conducted within Neil Kelly.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position is a mid-to-senior level role, requiring a blend of specialized design expertise, significant sales experience, and an understanding of construction processes. It represents a key client-facing revenue generation role within the company's operational framework. Reporting Structure: Typically, a Design Consultant would report to a Sales Manager, Design Director, or a similar leadership role responsible for revenue generation and client acquisition within the remodeling division. They will also collaborate extensively with Project Managers and operational teams responsible for project execution. Operations Impact: The Design Consultant has a direct and significant impact on the company's revenue stream by securing new remodeling projects. Their ability to accurately scope projects, manage client expectations, and foster strong relationships also influences project profitability, client satisfaction scores, and the company's overall market reputation and repeat business.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Design Consultant/Lead: Progression to a senior role with increased responsibility for mentoring junior consultants, handling larger or more complex projects, and potentially taking on team leadership responsibilities.
• Specialization: Opportunity to specialize further in areas like ADUs, new construction, or specific design styles, becoming a subject matter expert within the company.
• Management Track: Potential to move into sales management, design management, or operations management roles within the company, overseeing teams and strategic initiatives.
• Business Development: For those with entrepreneurial drive, opportunities to contribute to business development strategies, explore new market segments, or leverage their expertise in client acquisition.

📝 Enhancement Note: This analysis is based on the provided experience requirements and the typical career progression within the design and construction/remodeling industry. The "Operations Impact" section highlights the revenue-generating aspect of the role within the company's operational structure.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This role is primarily on-site, requiring the Design Consultant to be present in the Seattle metro area to meet with clients and collaborate with internal teams. The company culture is described as collaborative and friendly, suggesting an office environment that fosters teamwork and open communication. Office Location(s): The position is based in Seattle, WA, serving the surrounding metro area. Candidates must be able to commute reliably to this location. Workspace Context:

• The workspace likely includes a dedicated office space for client consultations, design work, and administrative tasks.
• Access to design tools, software (e.g., for CAD, 3D modeling, or project management), and sample materials will be provided to support design and sales efforts.
• Opportunities for collaboration with design associates, project managers, and other sales consultants are integral to the work environment, promoting knowledge sharing and team support.

Work Schedule: A full-time schedule is expected, likely involving standard business hours (e.g., Monday-Friday, 9 AM - 5 PM). However, flexibility will be necessary to accommodate client availability for meetings, which may include evenings or weekends, aligned with the demands of a client-facing sales and design role.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section is inferred based on the "On-site" remote status, company description (collaborative environment), and the nature of a design and sales role requiring client interaction and team collaboration.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your application, resume, and portfolio to assess qualifications against the job requirements. Be prepared to highlight your relevant design and sales experience.
• First Interview: Typically with a hiring manager or senior team member. This stage focuses on your overall experience, sales track record, design philosophy, and understanding of the construction process. Your portfolio will likely be a key discussion point.
• Skills Assessment/Case Study: You may be asked to present specific case studies from your portfolio, detailing a challenging project, your design approach, and how you achieved client satisfaction and sales success. This could involve a hypothetical design scenario or a deep dive into a past project.
• Final Interview: Potentially with leadership, focusing on cultural fit, long-term career aspirations, and how you align with Neil Kelly's values and mission.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-5 of your strongest projects that best represent your skills in residential remodeling, kitchen and bath design, and successful sales outcomes.
• Showcase "Built" Work: Prioritize projects that have been completed and can demonstrate tangible results and craftsmanship. Include high-quality before-and-after photos.
• Highlight Your Role: Clearly articulate your specific contributions to each project, especially emphasizing your sales efforts, client management, and design decisions. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., project value, client satisfaction ratings).
• Process Narrative: For each project, briefly explain your process: how you engaged the client, understood their needs, developed the design and proposal, and managed the sales transition.
• Professional Presentation: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, visually appealing, and easy to navigate, whether digital or physical.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss how you handle objections, negotiate contracts, and manage difficult client conversations.
• Prepare examples of how you've used your design expertise to solve client problems and differentiate your offerings.
• Familiarize yourself with Neil Kelly's work, values, and recent projects to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural alignment.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section is constructed based on standard interview practices for sales and design roles, combined with the specific requirements mentioned in the job description (portfolio, sales experience, design skills). The advice is tailored to help candidates present their qualifications effectively for this specific type of role.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design Software: Proficiency in design and visualization tools such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, Revit, Chief Architect, or similar software used for creating architectural plans, 3D models, and renderings.
• Sales CRM: Experience with Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot, or industry-specific CRMs) for managing leads, tracking sales activities, and forecasting revenue.
• Project Management Software: Familiarity with project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello, Monday.com, or internal company systems) to understand project workflows and collaborate with project teams.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales Performance Dashboards: Ability to interpret sales data and performance metrics, potentially using tools like Excel, Tableau, or integrated CRM reporting features to track progress against targets.
• Client Data Analysis: Understanding how to analyze client feedback and project data to identify trends and improve sales and design strategies.

CRM & Automation:

• Lead Management Systems: Experience with systems that manage incoming leads from various sources and facilitate their assignment and tracking.
• Proposal Generation Tools: Familiarity with software or templates used to create professional client proposals, including design visuals and cost breakdowns.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section infers the likely technology stack based on the role's responsibilities (design, sales, project collaboration) and industry standards for design consultants and sales professionals in the remodeling sector.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Client Focus: A deep commitment to understanding and exceeding client expectations throughout the design and remodeling process, ensuring satisfaction and building long-term relationships.
• Collaboration: A strong emphasis on teamwork, working effectively with Project Managers, Design Associates, and construction crews to deliver cohesive and successful projects.
• Craftsmanship & Quality: Upholding high standards for design excellence, material quality, and construction execution, reflecting the company's award-winning reputation.
• Sustainability & Responsibility: Adherence to environmentally conscious practices and ethical business conduct, aligned with Neil Kelly's B Corporation status.
• Innovation: Encouraging creative problem-solving and embracing new design trends and construction methods to offer cutting-edge solutions.

Collaboration Style:

• Integrated Team Approach: Fostering open communication and mutual respect between sales, design, and production teams to ensure a seamless client journey from initial contact to project completion.
• Feedback-Driven: Encouraging a culture where constructive feedback is shared and utilized to improve processes, designs, and client experiences.
• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting an environment where team members share insights, best practices, and lessons learned to collectively enhance performance and expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: These values and collaboration styles are inferred from the company description ("award-winning design, innovative practices, outstanding craftsmanship, and strong community engagement," "certified B Corporation," "collaborative, friendly environment") and the nature of the role's interactions.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales & Design: Effectively managing the dual responsibilities of driving sales targets while delivering high-quality, client-specific design solutions.
• Client Expectation Management: Navigating diverse client needs, budgets, and aesthetic preferences, ensuring realistic expectations are set and met throughout the project lifecycle.
• Market Competition: Differentiating Neil Kelly's offerings and securing projects in a competitive residential remodeling market.
• Project Scope Creep: Proactively managing project scope to stay within budget and timeline constraints while accommodating necessary client adjustments.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Certifications: Pursuing specialized certifications (e.g., advanced NKBA, sustainable design) to deepen expertise.
• Sales & Negotiation Training: Access to ongoing professional development in sales techniques, negotiation strategies, and client communication.
• Industry Conferences & Workshops: Opportunities to attend industry events to stay current on design trends, construction technologies, and best practices.
• Mentorship: Learning from experienced senior consultants and leadership within the company.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges are derived from the inherent complexities of a sales and design role in the remodeling industry. Growth opportunities are standard professional development paths relevant to this field.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for understanding a client's remodeling vision and translating it into a viable design and sales proposal." (Focus on your methodology, client engagement, and how you align needs with solutions.)
• "Walk me through a challenging kitchen or bath remodel project from your portfolio. What were the client's primary concerns, how did you address them with your design, and how did you ensure a successful sale and project outcome?" (Highlight problem-solving, design creativity, sales persuasion, and project management collaboration.)
• "How do you balance achieving sales targets with ensuring the client's design needs are met and construction realities are considered?" (Demonstrate your ability to manage competing priorities and deliver value.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Neil Kelly, and how do you see your design and sales approach aligning with our B Corporation values and commitment to craftsmanship?" (Research the company's mission, values, and recent projects.)
• "Describe your experience working collaboratively with Project Managers and construction teams. How do you ensure smooth handoffs and effective communication?" (Provide examples of cross-functional teamwork and problem resolution.)
• "How do you measure success in your role as a Design Consultant and Salesperson, beyond just closing deals?" (Focus on client satisfaction, repeat business, and contribution to team success.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Frame each project as a narrative – the client's initial problem or dream, your creative solution and sales approach, and the successful, transformed outcome.
• Quantify Impact: Where possible, use data to illustrate success: project value, client testimonials, efficiency gains from design, or ROI for the client.
• Visual Clarity: Use high-quality images and clear descriptions. Be prepared to discuss specific design choices, materials, and why they were selected.
• Sales Integration: Explicitly connect your design work to the sales process – how your design expertise helped secure the project and how you managed client expectations throughout.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview questions are crafted to probe the core competencies required for the role: design skill, sales ability, construction understanding, client management, and cultural fit. The portfolio presentation strategy is designed to help candidates showcase their experience effectively.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided ADP link, ensuring all required fields are accurately completed.
• Portfolio Customization: Prepare a digital portfolio that highlights 3-5 of your most compelling residential remodeling projects, emphasizing kitchen and bath designs, and clearly articulating your role in both the design and sales aspects. Ensure it showcases "built" work with high-quality visuals and quantifiable results.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight your 5+ years of residential design experience and 2+ years of sales experience. Use keywords from the job description such as "Design Consultant," "Residential Remodeling," "Kitchen & Bath Design," "Sales," "Client Relationship Management," and "Construction Process."
• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, sales approach, and collaboration methods. Prepare specific examples from your portfolio that demonstrate problem-solving, client satisfaction, and sales success. Be ready to discuss your understanding of Neil Kelly's values and commitment to craftsmanship.
• Company Research: Thoroughly research Neil Kelly Company, focusing on their history, B Corporation status, award-winning projects, and company culture. Be prepared to discuss why you are a good fit for their specific operational approach and values.

⚠️ 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.

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