Design Consultant

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Consultant Company: Floor & Decor Location: Tukwila, WA Job Type: Other Category: Sales & Design Operations Date Posted: 2025-07-30T00:00:00 Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role serves as a crucial entry point into the design and sales operations of a retail environment, focusing on customer engagement and project support.
• The Design Consultant is responsible for understanding customer design needs and guiding them through product selection for flooring and related accessories.
• A key aspect involves managing the sales cycle from initial customer interaction to project completion, ensuring client satisfaction and revenue generation.
• This position requires collaboration with store leadership to align with overarching sales targets and enhance the store's design services brand presence.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Design Consultant," the responsibilities blend sales, customer service, and operational support within a retail context. This is not a traditional B2B Revenue Operations or Sales Operations role, but rather a customer-facing sales and design role that requires operational efficiency in client management and project coordination. The "Operations" category is thus interpreted through the lens of front-line retail operations.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Engage proactively with store customers on the sales floor to understand their design project requirements and offer initial assistance.
• Conduct personalized design appointments to guide customers in selecting suitable tile, wood, stone, and accessory products, considering color, texture, pattern, and overall design aesthetic.
• Develop and manage a client base through networking, referrals, and in-store lead generation, fostering long-term customer relationships.
• Design comprehensive, functional, and aesthetically pleasing solutions that meet customer needs and project specifications, ensuring a complete and satisfactory outcome.
• Manage multiple customer projects simultaneously, overseeing all phases from initial inquiry through to installation, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and consistent communication.
• Collaborate closely with store leadership and associates to ensure seamless project management, from inquiry to installation, and contribute to achieving overall store sales and operational goals.
• Actively support company initiatives and goals by modeling and coaching best practices in customer interaction and sales processes among store employees.
• Utilize and maintain proficiency in company-specific design and customer management applications, including Salesforce, the Online Design Appointment Scheduler, and MyProject.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a customer-centric approach with a strong emphasis on project management within a retail sales environment. The role requires managing the customer journey, which is a core operational function in any sales-driven organization. The emphasis on "managing multiple, simultaneous customer projects through all phases" points to the need for strong organizational and time-management skills, akin to operational project coordination.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma or GED equivalent is the minimum educational requirement.

Experience:

• A minimum of 1 year of experience in retail sales or customer service is required.
• Internal candidates must have a minimum of 6 months of tenure with Floor & Decor.
• Experience in design consultation or interior design is a significant advantage.

Required Skills:

• Customer Engagement & Sales: Proven ability to engage customers, identify needs, and drive sales through effective consultation and product knowledge.
• Client Management: Skills in developing and nurturing client relationships, managing project pipelines, and ensuring client satisfaction through consistent follow-up.
• Design Acumen: Basic understanding of design principles and ability to assist customers in selecting aesthetically pleasing and functional products.
• Communication Proficiency: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for interacting with customers, internal teams, and management, including proficiency with email and company communication tools.
• Mathematical Aptitude: Proficiency in basic mathematical skills for calculations related to sales, project quotes, and inventory.
• Computer Literacy: Basic knowledge of computer applications, including Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook), and the ability to learn proprietary software.

Preferred Skills:

• Salesforce Proficiency: Experience using CRM systems like Salesforce for client tracking and sales pipeline management.
• Project Coordination: Ability to manage multiple projects concurrently, ensuring timely completion and adherence to specifications.
• Networking & Lead Generation: Demonstrated ability to generate leads and build a client base through various outreach methods.
• Adaptability: Ability to thrive in a fast-paced retail environment and adapt to changing customer needs and business priorities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "0-2 years" experience level suggests this is an entry-level position, with the core requirements focusing on foundational customer service, sales, and basic operational skills. The preferred skills indicate a desire for candidates who can quickly learn and apply more advanced CRM and project management techniques relevant to retail operations.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio might not be explicitly required for this entry-level role, candidates are encouraged to have examples of past customer interactions or design projects that demonstrate their ability to understand client needs and propose solutions.
• Demonstrate an understanding of managing customer projects from initial contact through to completion, highlighting organizational and follow-up skills.
• Showcase any experience with design software or tools that illustrate proficiency in creating aesthetically pleasing and functional designs.
• Highlight instances where you successfully met or exceeded sales targets or customer satisfaction goals, demonstrating a results-oriented approach.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their approach to managing multiple customer projects, including how they prioritize tasks, maintain communication, and ensure accuracy and timeliness.
• Be ready to describe how you would document customer interactions, design preferences, and project status using available systems and tools.
• Be prepared to elaborate on how you assess project success and gather feedback from customers post-completion to inform future interactions and process improvements.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this specific role, the "portfolio" would likely be demonstrated through discussion of past experiences and problem-solving scenarios during the interview, rather than a formal presentation. The focus is on the candidate's ability to articulate their process for client management and project execution.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• The provided pay range is $21.10 - $24.50 per hour. This aligns with entry-level to junior roles in retail sales and design consultation, considering the location in Tukwila, WA.
• The specific rate within this range will likely depend on the candidate's relevant experience, skills, and performance during the interview process.

Benefits:

• Performance-Based Incentives: Bonus opportunities are available at every level, rewarding performance and contribution.
• Career Development: Opportunities for career advancement and relocation across the country are offered, supporting long-term growth within the company.
• Financial Planning: A 401k plan with a discretionary company match and an Employee Stock Purchase Plan are provided for long-term financial security.
• Employee Perks: A Referral Bonus Program, a personal holiday, and Volunteer Time Off are included to enhance employee well-being and community involvement.
• Comprehensive Insurance: Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance plans are available, subject to eligibility criteria, ensuring health and security.

Working Hours:

• The role requires flexibility to work within the store's operating hours, which include weekdays, weekends, and potentially evenings. Typical full-time hours would be around 40 hours per week. Specific shifts will be determined based on store needs and scheduling.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary is hourly, typical for retail positions. The benefits package is robust for an entry-level role, indicating a focus on employee retention and growth. The mention of "bonus opportunities at every level" suggests that performance in sales and customer satisfaction directly impacts compensation beyond the base hourly wage.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry:

• Floor & Decor operates in the home improvement and building materials retail sector, specifically focusing on flooring, tile, stone, and related accessories. This industry demands a strong customer service orientation, product knowledge, and an understanding of design trends. Company Size:
• Floor & Decor is a large, publicly traded company (NYSE: FND). This implies a structured corporate environment with established processes, career development paths, and significant resources. For an operations professional, this size offers stability and opportunities for specialization. Founded:
• Floor & Decor was founded in 2000. Its relatively recent founding means it likely has modern operational systems and a dynamic, growth-oriented culture.

Team Structure:

• The Design Consultant typically reports to a Store Manager or a designated Design Department Lead.
• They work closely with other sales associates, design specialists, and warehouse staff to ensure a smooth customer experience from consultation to product pickup.
• Collaboration is key, requiring interaction with various store departments to fulfill customer orders and manage project timelines effectively.

Methodology:

• The company emphasizes a customer-centric approach, aiming to provide expert advice and a wide selection of products to meet diverse design needs.
• Operational efficiency is driven by utilizing technology for customer management, scheduling, and project tracking.
• A focus on sales performance and continuous improvement in customer service is integral to the company's operational strategy.

Company Website:

• https://www.flooranddecor.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on "design services" indicates a commitment to offering more than just products, requiring operational processes that support consultations, project planning, and customer relationship management effectively. The large company size suggests that operational roles are likely well-defined with clear procedures.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level:

• This "Design Consultant" role is positioned at an entry-level to junior level within the retail sales and customer experience operations. It serves as a foundational role for individuals looking to build a career in sales, design, or retail management. The responsibilities involve direct customer interaction, sales execution, and basic project coordination. Reporting Structure:
• The Design Consultant typically reports to a Store Manager or an Assistant Store Manager, who oversees the sales and operations of the retail location. This structure provides direct mentorship and oversight from experienced retail leadership. Operations Impact:
• The role directly impacts revenue by driving sales through expert design consultation and customer engagement. It also influences customer satisfaction and loyalty, which are critical operational metrics for repeat business and brand reputation. By managing projects efficiently, the Design Consultant contributes to operational smoothness and profitability.

Growth Opportunities:

• Sales Progression: Potential to advance to Senior Design Consultant, Sales Lead, or specialized sales roles within Floor & Decor.
• Management Track: Opportunities to move into Assistant Store Manager or Store Manager positions, overseeing broader store operations and teams.
• Specialization: Possibility to specialize in specific product categories or design services, becoming an expert in a niche area.
• Cross-Departmental Experience: Gaining experience in different store functions can lead to opportunities in operations management, merchandising, or corporate roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth opportunities highlight a clear path for career progression within Floor & Decor, moving from a customer-facing design role into sales leadership or general store management, which are key operational leadership positions.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type:

• The work environment is primarily a retail store setting, which includes a showroom area for design consultations and a warehouse/distribution area for product storage and pickup. The showroom is designed to showcase flooring and design products, while the warehouse is a more functional, operational space. Office Location(s):
• The specific location is a Floor & Decor store in Tukwila, WA. These stores are typically large, accessible retail spaces designed to accommodate a wide range of inventory and customer traffic. Workspace Context:
• The workspace involves significant time spent on the sales floor interacting with customers, conducting design consultations, and potentially utilizing a dedicated design consultation area or office space within the store.
• Access to product samples, design resources, and computer systems for sales and project management is essential.
• Collaboration occurs frequently with other store associates, requiring clear communication and teamwork within the retail operational framework. Work Schedule:
• The work schedule requires flexibility to cover store operating hours, which include weekends and potentially evenings. Associates are expected to work approximately 40 hours per week, with shifts assigned based on business needs and scheduling.

📝 Enhancement Note: The retail environment necessitates a dynamic and customer-focused approach. The operational aspect involves managing time effectively across various tasks, from direct customer interaction to administrative duties and supporting store operations.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely involves a review of the application and possibly a brief phone interview to assess basic qualifications and interest.
• In-Person Interview: This will likely be a more in-depth interview with a hiring manager (Store Manager or Assistant Manager) focusing on customer service skills, sales aptitude, and problem-solving abilities.
• Scenario-Based Questions: Expect questions about how you would handle specific customer situations, manage design projects, or resolve customer issues.
• Cultural Fit: Assessment of how well you align with Floor & Decor's customer-centric and collaborative work culture.
• Product/Design Knowledge: While not explicitly stated as a requirement, demonstrating an interest in and basic understanding of flooring and design can be beneficial.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• While a formal portfolio isn't a strict requirement for this role, be prepared to discuss your experience with:
  • Customer Service Successes: Share examples of how you've gone above and beyond for customers.
  • Sales Achievements: Quantify any sales targets you've met or exceeded.
  • Project Management Examples: Describe how you've managed tasks or projects from start to finish, emphasizing organization and follow-through.
  • Design Aspirations: Talk about your interest in interior design and how you approach creating appealing spaces.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to answer behavioral questions using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to showcase your skills and experience effectively.
• Prepare to discuss how you would approach a typical design consultation, from greeting the customer to closing the sale and planning for installation.
• Consider how you would handle a situation where a customer is undecided or has specific budget constraints.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely focus on behavioral competencies and practical application of customer service and sales skills rather than technical operations expertise. Demonstrating strong organizational and communication skills will be key.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Salesforce: Likely used for customer relationship management, lead tracking, sales pipeline management, and client project history. Proficiency here indicates an understanding of modern sales operations tools.
• Microsoft Office Suite: Essential for general computer tasks, communication (Outlook), data organization (Excel), and documentation (Word).
• Proprietary Online Design Appointment Scheduler: A tool for managing customer appointments, requiring efficient scheduling and client communication capabilities.
• MyProject: A system for managing customer projects, likely involving tracking progress, client details, and project milestones.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a data analyst role, understanding basic reporting related to sales performance, customer engagement, and project status will be beneficial.
• The ability to interpret sales data and customer feedback to improve service and sales strategies is valuable.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM: Salesforce is the primary CRM, emphasizing the importance of data integrity and utilization for customer interactions and sales processes.
• Automation: While not explicitly mentioned, efficiency in scheduling and project management systems suggests leveraging technology to streamline operational workflows.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with Salesforce and other CRM/project management tools is crucial. This role requires operational efficiency through the effective use of technology to manage customer interactions and sales projects.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: A strong emphasis on providing exceptional customer service and building lasting relationships.
• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working effectively with colleagues and management to achieve store goals and ensure a positive customer experience.
• Results Orientation: A drive to meet and exceed sales targets and contribute to the company's success.
• Continuous Improvement: A willingness to learn, adapt, and improve processes and personal skills in a dynamic retail environment.
• Product Expertise: Developing a strong understanding of Floor & Decor's product offerings to provide informed advice to customers.

Collaboration Style:

• The role requires a collaborative approach, working closely with sales associates, design specialists, and store leadership.
• Open communication and mutual support are essential for managing customer projects effectively and achieving collective store objectives.
• Sharing knowledge and best practices within the team fosters a culture of learning and efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture emphasizes customer satisfaction, teamwork, and performance. Successful candidates will need to demonstrate strong interpersonal skills and a commitment to contributing positively to the team and customer experience.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing High Customer Volume: Effectively handling a large number of walk-in customers and appointments while maintaining service quality.
• Balancing Multiple Projects: Juggling numerous customer projects simultaneously, each with unique needs and timelines, requires strong organizational skills.
• Meeting Sales Targets: Consistently meeting or exceeding sales goals in a competitive retail environment.
• Adapting to Design Trends: Staying current with interior design trends to provide relevant and effective customer advice.
• Learning New Systems: Quickly mastering proprietary software and CRM tools for efficient project and client management.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Product Training: Comprehensive training on Floor & Decor's extensive product lines, including materials, styles, and applications.
• Sales & Design Skills Development: Opportunities to enhance sales techniques, customer consultation skills, and design knowledge through ongoing training and mentorship.
• Operational Process Training: Learning to effectively use company systems for CRM, scheduling, and project management to improve operational efficiency.
• Career Pathing: Clear pathways for advancement into leadership roles within the retail store environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical of a busy retail sales environment, emphasizing the need for resilience, organization, and a proactive approach to problem-solving. The growth opportunities are well-defined, offering a clear trajectory for career advancement within the company.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service: "Tell me about a time you provided exceptional customer service. What was the situation, and what was the outcome?" Focus on going above and beyond.
• Sales Approach: "How would you approach a customer who is unsure about their design choices?" Be prepared to discuss your consultation process, from understanding needs to offering solutions.
• Problem Solving: "Describe a time you had to manage multiple priorities or demanding customers. How did you prioritize and ensure all needs were met?" Highlight organizational and time-management skills.
• Teamwork: "How do you contribute to a collaborative team environment in a retail setting?" Discuss your communication and support for colleagues.
• Company Knowledge: "What do you know about Floor & Decor, and why are you interested in this role?" Research the company's products, mission, and recent news.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Be ready to discuss why you are drawn to the design and home improvement industry.
• Understand Floor & Decor's commitment to customer service and how your values align.
• Prepare questions to ask the interviewer about team dynamics, daily responsibilities, and growth opportunities.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• If you have relevant projects (e.g., personal design work, previous retail sales successes), be prepared to discuss them.
• Focus on how you:
  • Understood client needs.
  • Developed solutions.
  • Managed the process.
  • Achieved positive outcomes (e.g., customer satisfaction, sales).
• Emphasize your organizational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating strong interpersonal skills, a customer-centric mindset, and the ability to manage tasks and projects effectively, even without extensive formal operations experience.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Floor & Decor careers portal.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight customer service, sales experience, any design-related skills, and examples of managing tasks or projects. Use keywords from the job description like "customer service," "sales," "design consultation," and "project management."
• Prepare for Behavioral Questions: Practice answering common interview questions using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to showcase your capabilities.
• Research Floor & Decor: Familiarize yourself with their product offerings, target market, and company values to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural alignment.
• Gather Examples: Think of specific examples from past roles that demonstrate your ability to handle customer interactions, manage your time, and achieve goals.