SOM, one of the most influential design firms in the world, is seeking innovative, creative, independent, and critical thinkers who aspire to the highest standards of excellence. Join our collaborative design practice as an Associate Principal - Interior Designer for the opportunity to build a strong and thriving career.
At SOM, we are a collective committed to shaping a better future for our clients, communities and planet. We aspire to create the most sustainable, impactful work through creative, interdisciplinary teams with all the resources and diversity of a global firm. We value those who are passionate about excellence, innovation, integrity, inclusivity, and collaboration. Together we can achieve great things.
Success at SOM Means
Ideas: We believe in a meritocracy of ideas. We look to everyone to actively contribute to the discourse in the firm.
Knowledge: We believe that expertise is the result of lifelong learning. We are not expected to know everything, but rather to passionately pursue answers, develop new skills and deepen our knowledge.
Product: We strive for excellence in the concept, quality, and delivery of our work.
Individual: We value individuals who bring the highest standards of professionalism and personal integrity in the way they work. Each person can develop and contribute their wealth of attributes, skills and knowledge to support the overall health of the firm.
Team: We value the power of interdisciplinary integration. A positive team culture in which everyone collaborates openly towards common goals is essential.
Firm: We have a history of making transformative contributions to the profession and our communities. We are constantly innovating and attempting to bring new approaches, solutions and processes to our work.
Position Responsibilities
Demonstrates team and project experience inclusive of managing client relationships, and project teams for small, medium and large-scale corporate, hospitality and/or residential interiors projects.
Ability to plan, organize, direct, mentor, and coordinate work efforts for the technical, design and/or management aspects of a project team, through all phases of a project, with minimal oversight from Principal and/or Partner.
Provides technical/design/management leadership and support for the development of the entire design concept through all phases of the project, under a Principal or Partner.
Collaborative and professional work ethic; leads by example motivating project teams in an inclusive and positive approach.
Demonstrates knowledge of Interiors and Architecture Industry Best Practices including programming, planning, design, construction documentation and construction administration, as well as consulting engineering engagement and coordination.
Demonstrates a thorough knowledge of Interior Architecture and Architectural design and leading teams through workplace planning and design concept development (hospitality and/or residential as applicable), design and detailing standards, building materials, building systems, current and applicable building and fire codes, FF&E, construction techniques and current market cost(s) costing trends.
Participates in the planning, scheduling, and organization of project plans for design, technical, and/or project management tools/documents (as applicable) relative to project parameters and in collaboration with senior project team leaders.
Demonstrates leadership in terms of implementing SOM standard procedures and protocols for the technical, design and/or management aspects of a project to assure continuity, coordination and consistency of project documentation across the firm in support of overall office wide goals.
Proactively coordinates and leads teams project documents reviews (design phase documents, technical documents and/or project management tools/documents) and is responsible for quality control of associated documents in accordance with SOM’s quality control program.
Leads and delivers creative and innovative solutions to complex problems and guides the team in the development of appropriate research and documentation to support these solutions.
Participates in marketing and business development efforts.
Demonstrates detailed knowledge of local office standards, policies and procedures and provides guidance to others in the use of those resources.
Leadership Responsibilities
Actively leads multiple projects and teams.
Established as a officewide resource in an area of expertise for market, discipline, or department.
Directly supervises, trains, and mentors team members.
Engages in talent strategy to find specialists, leaders, and future professionals for the firm through resume review, interviews, and leveraging personal network.
Demonstrates leadership in the implementation of sustainable strategies in all project assignments and the associated development of staff knowledge.
Creates and drives new ways of working through contributing to the development of services, standards, procedures based in an understanding of the business principles that protect SOM from financial and legal risk.
Minimum Qualifications
Professional degree in Architecture and/or Interior Design.
Licensed in state of practice or must be NCIDQ Certified; LEED accreditation preferred.
Minimum 10 years of experience or equivalent knowledge, skills and abilities.
General understanding of sustainable strategies and principles including familiarity with LEED or other green building rating systems.
Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google Workspace.
Familiarity with Revit and demonstrates practical understanding of the application of digital tools such as Rhinoceros, Grasshopper, Navisworks, Ladybug, Enscape, VR, ADOBE Suite, etc.
Actively supports compliance with BIM/CAD project standards and procedures.
SOM offers opportunities to work on transformational projects, competitive salaries, health insurance, wellness, retirement and financial and other work/life plans.
At SOM, we welcome and encourage diversity in the workplace. We believe an inclusive environment benefits our employees, our firm, and our community, while also enriching and challenging our own thinking about design. We are proud to be an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. Visit this page to learn more about SOM's employment policy and how to apply offline: www.som.com/employment_opportunities_and_policy
Portfolios must be submitted for all design positions (Architecture, Interiors, Planning, etc). Applications without work samples will not be reviewed. Portfolios should be one PDF attachment, 10-20 pages, maximum 5 MB. Submit portfolios as part of your application in the section where the application asks you for your Resume or CV.
