Part-time Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Part-time Designer Company: The Container Store Inc. Location: Austin, Texas, United States Job Type: PART_TIME Category: Sales & Design Operations Date Posted: July 29, 2025 Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This part-time role focuses on expert custom space design, leveraging deep knowledge of storage and organization solutions to drive sales and enhance customer experiences.
• Key responsibilities include managing multiple, simultaneous customer projects from inception to completion, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and effective communication.
• The position demands strong selling skills, a commitment to exceptional customer service, and the ability to build repeat and referral business.
• As a brand ambassador, the Part-time Designer must model professional behaviors and enthusiastically support company initiatives, contributing to overall store and sales goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role, while titled "Designer," has significant operational responsibilities within the sales process, particularly in project management, client communication, and CRM utilization. It bridges design expertise with sales operations execution, requiring a blend of creative problem-solving and structured process management.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Manage and maintain multiple, simultaneous customer projects through all phases, ensuring a high level of accuracy, timeliness, and consistent, concise communication with customers and internal partners.
• Collaborate effectively with customers to design and present customized plans, clearly articulating solutions and value propositions to facilitate sales closure.
• Drive sales performance by closing deals efficiently and actively fostering repeat and referral business through exceptional customer engagement.
• Maintain clear and consistent communication with Store Managers and Support Center partners to ensure seamless project completion from initial inquiry through installation, thereby achieving sales targets.
• Act as a brand ambassador, enthusiastically supporting all company initiatives by modeling professional and productive behaviors that contribute to store and organizational goals.
• Stay current with all Container Store training, selling methodologies, product knowledge, promotions, processes, and philosophies to ensure consistent and effective customer interactions.
• Proficiently and consistently utilize company tools and email for communication and project management.
• Actively participate in the daily maintenance of the custom spaces showroom, ensuring visual presentation standards are met.
• Handle cash and other valuables appropriately and securely, adhering to all company policies.
• Maintain a safe working and shopping environment by utilizing resources effectively and ensuring the safety and security of employees, customers, and property.
• Assist customers with personal and confidential information related to company credit card and application processes, maintaining discretion.
• Consistently arrive promptly for all assigned shifts and maintain flexibility for additional hours based on business needs.
• Maintain discretion regarding all confidential and sensitive company and customer information.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong emphasis on project lifecycle management, sales execution, and customer relationship management, which are core tenets of sales operations. The requirement to maintain detailed communication and work with internal partners underscores the operational coordination aspect of the role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: College degree preferred. Experience: 2-5 years of sales and clientele experience preferred.

Required Skills:

• Custom Space Design Expertise: Demonstrated ability to conceptualize and design custom storage and organization solutions tailored to individual customer needs.
• Clientele Management: Proven experience in building and maintaining strong customer relationships, fostering loyalty and repeat business.
• Sales Acumen: Strong selling skills with a track record of closing sales efficiently and achieving revenue targets.
• Project Management Fundamentals: Ability to manage multiple, simultaneous projects from start to finish, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and effective communication throughout the lifecycle.
• Communication Proficiency: Excellent oral and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex designs and solutions clearly and professionally to diverse audiences.
• Computer Literacy: Proficiency in Microsoft Outlook and Word; knowledge of Excel and Customer Relationship Management (CRM) tools such as Salesforce.
• Organizational Skills: Strong ability to organize tasks, manage time effectively, and prioritize workload to meet deadlines and manage multiple projects concurrently.
• Attention to Detail: Focused attention to detail, with the capacity to work quickly and accurately, especially under pressure.
• Adaptability & Flexibility: Ability to remain flexible, maintain a positive attitude, and adapt to changing business needs and priorities.
• Professionalism: Maintains professional appearance and adheres to required dress code when representing The Container Store.
• Problem-Solving: Ability to make strategic and effective decisions in the best interest of customers and the company by objectively processing information.

Preferred Skills:

• Industry Trend Knowledge: Knowledge and passion for following trends in the custom spaces and retail industry.
• CRM Tool Proficiency: Advanced knowledge or experience with specific CRM platforms beyond basic familiarity.
• Visual Merchandising: Experience or aptitude for visual presentation and showroom maintenance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills blend design creativity with core operational competencies like project management, CRM usage, and communication. The emphasis on managing multiple projects simultaneously and maintaining detailed communication points towards the need for strong organizational and process-adherence capabilities, typical in operations roles.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Project Examples: Showcase a portfolio of past custom space design projects, illustrating a range of solutions and client needs addressed.
• Client Collaboration Documentation: Examples demonstrating how client needs were gathered, understood, and translated into design solutions, highlighting communication strategies.
• Sales Process Integration: Evidence of involvement in the sales process, from initial consultation through to project closure, showcasing sales contributions.
• Project Lifecycle Management: Ideally, include examples that demonstrate the management of projects from concept to completion, highlighting delivery processes.
• Visual Presentation: High-quality visual representations of designs (renderings, sketches, finished project photos) to showcase aesthetic and functional outcomes.

Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate an understanding of managing customer interactions and projects through defined stages, from initial inquiry to final installation.
• Ability to document customer interactions, design specifications, and project progress using company-provided tools.
• Showcase an approach to process improvement within client interactions or project management to enhance efficiency and customer satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal "operations portfolio" isn't explicitly requested, the emphasis on managing multiple projects, client communication, and sales closure implies a need for candidates to showcase their ability to execute defined processes effectively. Portfolio items should highlight project management skills, client interaction workflows, and sales success.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: As a part-time, hourly position, compensation is expected to be competitive within the retail design and sales sector in Austin, TX. Based on industry standards for roles requiring 2-5 years of experience and client-facing sales, an estimated hourly range could be between $18 - $25 per hour, subject to experience and specific performance metrics.

Benefits:

• Rewarding Pay: Competitive compensation recognizing the value brought to the team.
• Health & Wellness: Competitive health, dental, and vision plans.
• Retirement Savings: 401(k) retirement savings plan with optional investment guidance through Fidelity.
• Time Off: Competitive sick pay and Paid Time Off (PTO) plan.
• Employee Resources: Access to a unique "1equals3" website for benefits and company updates.
• Peace of Mind (for full-time, but part-time may have some options): While specific benefits like life insurance, disability, accident, critical illness, hospital indemnity, and FSAs are listed for full-time associates, part-time employees may have access to different or prorated benefits depending on hours worked and company policy.
• Family Support (for full-time): Parental leave, adoption/surrogacy assistance, fertility/maternity support.
• Work-Life Balance Boosters (for full-time): Paid holidays, gym membership discounts, transportation benefits.
• Employee Discounts: Significant discounts on company products, custom spaces, and services.
• Recognition Programs: Service awards and other employee recognition initiatives.
• Diversity & Inclusion: Participation in Employee Resource and Affinity Groups.

Working Hours: This is a part-time position. Schedules can include daytime, evenings, and weekends, requiring flexibility to meet business needs. The role is hourly, non-exempt.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on industry benchmarks for similar roles in the Austin, TX area. The benefits listed are comprehensive, with a clear distinction between full-time and part-time offerings. The working hours are flexible but require availability across weekdays and weekends.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Specialty Retail - Storage and Organization Solutions. The Container Store is a national leader in this niche, known for its unique product categories and customer-centric approach. Company Size: The Container Store is a publicly traded company with a significant presence. While specific employee counts fluctuate, it operates numerous retail locations across the U.S., indicating a medium to large enterprise structure. This size implies established operational processes and a structured corporate environment. Founded: 1978. With over four decades of history, The Container Store has built a strong brand identity and a deep understanding of its market, influencing its operational strategies and customer engagement models.

Team Structure:

• The Part-time Designer typically reports to a Store Manager or Assistant Manager, working within a store-based team that includes Sales Associates, Custom Spaces Specialists, and potentially installation coordination staff.
• The reporting structure is hierarchical within the store, with clear lines of communication to store leadership and potentially to regional or corporate support teams for specialized functions.
• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, involving close coordination with store management for sales goals, customer service support staff for inquiries, and potentially installation partners to ensure seamless project completion.

Methodology:

• The Container Store emphasizes a data-driven approach to sales and customer management, utilizing CRM tools to track client interactions, project status, and sales performance.
• Workflow planning and optimization are critical for managing multiple customer projects efficiently, ensuring timely delivery and high customer satisfaction.
• Automation is likely leveraged through CRM and internal communication systems to streamline processes, manage tasks, and facilitate information flow between departments.

Company Website: www.containerstore.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's long history and leadership position in its niche suggest a mature operational framework. The team structure emphasizes collaboration within a retail environment, requiring strong communication and coordination skills to manage the end-to-end customer journey.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a mid-level within the retail sales and design operations sphere. It offers a strong foundation in client management, sales execution, and project coordination, serving as a stepping stone for more specialized or leadership-oriented roles in retail operations, sales management, or design consulting.

Reporting Structure: The Part-time Designer typically reports to a Store Manager or a designated Custom Spaces Manager. This structure provides direct mentorship in sales techniques, customer service standards, and operational best practices within the retail environment.

Operations Impact: This role directly impacts revenue through sales of custom storage solutions and indirectly influences customer loyalty and brand perception through exceptional design and service. Efficient project management and effective client communication are crucial for maintaining operational efficiency and driving repeat business, thereby contributing to the company's overall financial performance and market standing.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Potential to become a full-time Custom Spaces Expert or Lead Designer, taking on more complex projects and mentorship responsibilities.
• Skill Development: Opportunities to deepen expertise in sales methodologies, CRM utilization, design software, and project management through ongoing training and hands-on experience.
• Leadership: Potential progression into Assistant Store Manager or Store Manager roles, overseeing broader store operations, team management, and strategic initiatives.
• Cross-Departmental Exposure: Chance to interact with various aspects of retail operations, gaining insights into merchandising, inventory management, and customer support functions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear path for growth within the retail operations and sales domain, emphasizing practical skill development in client management, project execution, and sales performance. The ability to manage projects and client relationships effectively is key to advancing within the organization.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The work environment is primarily a retail store setting, specifically within designated "Custom Spaces" design areas and showrooms. This includes customer-facing sales floor areas and potentially back-office spaces for administrative tasks.

Office Location(s): The specific location is 9629 Research Blvd, Austin, TX 78759. This implies a modern retail store environment designed for customer engagement and product display.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is collaborative, requiring interaction with customers, fellow sales associates, and management. The custom design area serves as a primary workspace for client consultations and design work.
• Tools and technology available will include computers with specialized design software, CRM systems, communication tools (email, phone), and point-of-sale (POS) systems.
• Opportunities for team interaction are frequent, fostering a supportive environment where knowledge sharing and problem-solving occur collaboratively among store associates.

Work Schedule: This is a part-time position with flexible scheduling that can include daytime, evening, and weekend shifts. The ability to adapt to varying business needs and customer traffic patterns is essential.

📝 Enhancement Note: The retail store environment necessitates adaptability and customer engagement. The workspace is dynamic, blending sales, design, and operational tasks, with a strong emphasis on collaborative teamwork and customer interaction.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of the application and resume to assess qualifications and experience against the job requirements. Candidates may be asked to submit a portfolio or provide examples of past design/sales work.
• First Interview: Typically conducted by a Hiring Manager (Store Manager or Assistant Manager). This stage focuses on assessing sales skills, customer service philosophy, understanding of The Container Store's brand, and basic fit with the team. Behavioral questions related to past experiences will likely be used.
• Second Interview (Potential): May involve a more in-depth discussion, potentially including a role-playing scenario or a presentation based on a hypothetical design challenge to evaluate problem-solving and design presentation skills.
• Final Interview/Onboarding: Final discussions on role expectations, compensation, benefits, and company culture.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Design Versatility: Include a variety of projects demonstrating different design styles and solutions for various client needs (e.g., closets, kitchens, garages).
• Highlight Client Interaction: For each project, briefly describe the client's initial needs and how you collaborated to achieve their goals, demonstrating communication and active listening skills.
• Quantify Results: If possible, include metrics or outcomes related to sales performance or customer satisfaction tied to your design work.
• Professional Presentation: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, visually appealing, and easy to navigate, whether digital or physical.
• Focus on Process: Briefly explain your design process, from initial consultation and needs assessment to design development and client presentation.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Scenario: Be prepared for a scenario where you need to design a space based on specific constraints and client preferences. Practice articulating your design choices and the reasoning behind them.
• Sales Pitch: Practice presenting a solution to a customer, focusing on benefits, customization, and closing the sale.
• Problem-Solving: Anticipate questions about how you handle difficult clients, manage competing priorities, or resolve project issues, and prepare examples using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is structured to evaluate both design talent and sales operational capabilities. A strong portfolio that demonstrates client management, process adherence, and successful sales outcomes will be crucial for candidates. Preparation should focus on showcasing these blended skills.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CRM System (e.g., Salesforce): Used for managing customer interactions, tracking sales pipelines, project status, and communication logs. Proficiency in data entry and retrieval is key.
• Microsoft Office Suite:
  • Outlook: For professional communication, scheduling, and calendar management.
  • Word: For creating client proposals, documentation, and internal communications.
  • Excel: For basic data analysis, tracking project details, and potentially sales forecasting or reporting.
• Custom Design Software: Proprietary or industry-standard software used for creating 3D renderings and detailed plans for custom spaces.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly listed as a primary tool for this role, understanding how to interpret basic sales reports and customer data from the CRM would be beneficial for tracking personal performance against goals.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM is central to managing the customer lifecycle. Automation is likely employed through the CRM for task reminders, follow-ups, and potentially email marketing campaigns for customer engagement.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in CRM systems and basic office productivity tools is essential. Experience with design software is also a core requirement. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with these tools and how they leverage them to manage client projects and drive sales.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Matchless Customer Service: A commitment to providing exceptional service that exceeds customer expectations at every touchpoint.
• Fun & Authentic: Fostering a work environment that is enjoyable, genuine, and allows employees to be themselves.
• Team-Focused: Emphasizing collaboration, mutual support, and collective achievement among team members.
• Life-Changing: Driven by a mission to improve customers' lives through organization and design solutions.
• Efficiency & Accuracy: Valuing precise execution in project management, sales processes, and customer interactions to ensure high-quality outcomes.

Collaboration Style:

• The team operates with a high degree of collaboration, requiring associates to work together to support customer needs, share product knowledge, and achieve store-wide objectives.
• A culture of open communication and feedback is encouraged, allowing for continuous improvement in processes and service delivery.
• Knowledge sharing is promoted, particularly regarding product features, design techniques, and effective sales strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's core values directly influence the operational approach, emphasizing customer-centricity, teamwork, and a proactive attitude. Associates are expected to embody these values in their daily interactions and project execution.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Multiple Projects: The primary challenge is effectively balancing and prioritizing multiple customer projects simultaneously, ensuring each receives adequate attention and meets deadlines.
• Client Expectations: Meeting diverse client expectations, which can range from budget-conscious to highly specific design requests, requires flexibility and strong problem-solving skills.
• Sales Targets: Consistently achieving individual and store sales goals in a competitive retail environment.
• Keeping Up-to-Date: Staying current with an extensive product catalog, new design trends, and evolving selling processes requires continuous learning.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Sales Training: Comprehensive training on The Container Store's unique selling methodologies and customer engagement strategies.
• Product Knowledge: In-depth education on the wide range of storage and organization products, including their features, benefits, and applications.
• Design Skills: Development of skills in using custom design software and applying design principles to create functional and aesthetically pleasing solutions.
• Operational Processes: Learning and mastering the company's project management, CRM, and customer service processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges in this role are typical of client-facing sales and design positions, requiring strong organizational and communication skills. The growth opportunities are focused on developing expertise within the retail operations and design sectors.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Process: "Walk me through your process for designing a custom closet for a client. What information do you gather, and how do you present your solution?" Focus on structure, client needs assessment, and clear communication.
• Sales Approach: "How do you handle a customer who is hesitant about the price of a custom solution?" Prepare to discuss value-based selling, overcoming objections, and highlighting long-term benefits.
• Problem-Solving: "Describe a time you had to manage multiple competing priorities. How did you ensure all tasks were completed accurately and on time?" Use the STAR method to detail your organizational and time management strategies.
• Customer Service: "Tell me about a time you went above and beyond to provide exceptional customer service." Be ready to share an example that showcases your commitment to customer satisfaction.
• Teamwork: "How do you contribute to a positive and productive team environment in a retail setting?" Highlight your collaborative spirit and willingness to support colleagues.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Brand Alignment: "What do you know about The Container Store, and why are you interested in working here?" Research the company's Foundation Principles and be prepared to connect your values to theirs.
• Fit: "How do you embody our values of 'Fun, Authentic, Team-Focused'?" Provide specific examples of your behavior that align with these principles.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Concise Storytelling: For each portfolio piece, briefly explain the client's challenge, your design solution, and the positive outcome (e.g., satisfied customer, successful sale).
• Highlight Process: Emphasize your approach to client interaction and project management, showcasing organizational and communication skills.
• Visual Clarity: Ensure any visual aids are clear, professional, and effectively communicate your design capabilities.
• Engagement: Be prepared to answer questions about your designs and demonstrate enthusiasm for the company's products and mission.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of design creativity, strong sales execution, and robust operational management skills. Candidates should be adept at articulating their processes, handling sales challenges, and aligning with the company's culture and values.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Part-time Designer position:

• Submit your application and resume through The Container Store's careers portal (link provided).
• Portfolio Customization: If you have a portfolio, ensure it highlights your best custom design projects, emphasizing client collaboration, problem-solving, and successful project completion. Tailor your selection to showcase skills relevant to storage and organization solutions.
• Resume Optimization: Craft your resume to clearly articulate your sales experience, client management skills, and any experience with CRM tools or project coordination. Use keywords from the job description to ensure ATS compatibility.
• Interview Preparation: Practice answering common interview questions, particularly those related to sales, customer service, project management, and teamwork. Prepare specific examples using the STAR method.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with The Container Store's Foundation Principles, product offerings, and commitment to customer service. Understand how your skills and values align with the company's mission.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with The Container Store hiring team before making application decisions.