Median Salary: $56,698 (ZipRecruiter), $52,220 (Salary.com)
A junior interior designer or architect collaborates with senior design team members on project goals, assisting with design concepts and interfacing with clients to ensure timely fulfillment of needs. This role involves placing orders for essential elements such as furniture, maintaining documentation on budget, client purchases, and marketing efforts, and implementing best practices for projects. Exceptional attention to detail, interpersonal skills, a bachelor’s degree in interior design, architecture, or related field, and proficiency in design software like AutoCAD are required for this collaborative team-player role. Previous experience may be preferred, or it could be an entry-level position at certain firms.
The salary for a junior interior designer typically falls within the $50,000 range. IIDA reported the median salary at $51,600 in 2021 with little variance from the 25th percentile at $47,000 to the 75th percentile at $56,300. Similarly, Salary.com found the salary range for this position to be between $41,400 and $57,260 in 2024, while ZipRecruiter reported a range of $45,500 to $65,000, with most jobs in the low to mid $50,000s.
Interior Decorator
Salary: $69,250 (ZipRecruiter), $56,345 (Salary.com)
An interior decorator collaborates with clients to establish the aesthetic for a completed space. Responsibilities include advising on space planning, layout, color coordination, finishes, and fixtures, as well as working with contractors and vendors to select furniture and materials. Effective communication, interpersonal skills, organizational skills, and attention to detail are crucial. While a bachelor’s degree is preferred, proficiency in AutoCAD and Adobe Photoshop may be necessary.
Salaries for interior decorators vary widely based on experience and education. ZipRecruiter reported an average salary of $69,250 in 2024, with the potential earnings ranging from $34,000 to $87,500 per year. However, almost half of interior decorator jobs (48%) fall within the $29,000 to $39,000 pay range. Salary.com, on the other hand, found the salary range to be narrower, from $50,768 to $69,160.
Technical Designer
Job Titles: Technical Designer, CAD Drafter
Average Salary: $80,265 (ZipRecruiter)
A CAD drafter or technical designer utilizes AutoCAD software to create high-quality design drawings for building construction while incorporating building codes and design specifications. Precision, attention to detail, creativity, organizational skills, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are essential. Interpersonal, communication, and listening skills are necessary for collaborating with engineers and executives.
The average salary for a technical designer is $80,265, with the national salary range falling between $65,000 (25th percentile) and $90,000 (75th percentile). The IIDA survey, however, reported a range of $45,800 to $74,100 for this role, with $55,400 as the median.
