Designer I

geniant is a fast-growing experience consulting company that exists to help innovative leaders shape experiences across digital solutions, physical space, and people interactions. Working with a wide range of organizations — from high-growth startups to Fortune 500 companies — geniant excels at improving experiences for employees and customers.

We are seeking a Designer I to join our Chicago Studio. The Designer I is responsible for supporting the design team in creating aesthetically pleasing and performative interior spaces. This role works closely with designers, architects, and clients to bring design concepts to life. The Designer I role contributes to various aspects of the design process, from initial concept development to project completion.  The salary range is $55-65k based on experience, equity, and a competitive benefits package that includes health, dental, vision, life and disability, 401k, and paid time off.

This position is required to be in the office 2-3 days per week so we are looking for candidates who a) are in the greater Chicago area b) authorized to work in the US without sponsorship and c) not through a third party.

Primary Responsibilities include:  

• Contribute to space planning and layout design, ensuring efficient and performative use of interior spaces. 
• Work with colleagues and senior designers to generate floor plans that align with the overall design vision.  
• Assist in the development of design concepts based on project goals including client brand & performance requirements, as well as project schedules and costs.  
• Collaborate openly with designers, architects and other design professionals to ensure seamless integration of design concepts with architectural elements.  
• Research and select appropriate materials, finishes, and furnishings in line with the design concept and client preferences.  
• Assist in creating material boards and design palette presentations for internal review and client approvals.  
• Translate conceptual designs into detailed drawings and specifications
• Prepare and contribute to the creation of design documents, including sketches, design and construction drawings, specifications, and schedules.
• Create accurate and detailed construction documents using industry standard software (Vectorworks, AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, etc.).
• Assist in the coordination and communication of design intent to contractors and vendors.  
• Produce drawings for review and mark ups for quality control. 
• Collaborate with colleagues and senior designers in client meetings to understand their needs and present design solutions.  
• Provide excellent customer service and address client interactions with professionalism and creativity.  
• Assist in the coordination with suppliers, manufacturers, and vendors to source and procure furnishings, fixtures, and materials.  
• Assist in resolving design challenges during the construction phase.  
• Effectively communicate design details and requirements to both internal and external team members.  
• Assist in client presentations, explaining aspects of the design when necessary. 
• Conduct preliminary reviews of construction documents to ensure accuracy, completeness, and adherence to firm standards & coordination checklists.  
• Participate in quality control processes to identify and rectify any errors or discrepancies in the documentation.  

Required Education and Experience: 

• Bachelor’s Degree from a CIDA accredited Interior Design program
• 1-4 years of full-time design experience 
• Certification as a licensed professional is preferred but not required
• Demonstrate Competence & Proficiency in the following areas:
  • AutoCad / Revit or other BIM software, Vectorworks preferred, but not required
  • Sketchup or other 3D modeling software, Vectorworks preferred, but not required
  • Adobe Creative Suite – InDesign and Photoshop
  • Microsoft Office Suite – Excel and Word
  • G-Suite - Mail, Calendar, Drive, Sheets and Docs
• Strong understanding of design principles, color theory, and space planning.• Exemplary written and verbal communication  
• Comfort and poise presenting to external and internal audiences
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team setting, receiving & seeking feedback and direction from colleagues and senior team members.
• Attention to details, problem solving and organizational skills.
• Pursues experiential and other learning & growth opportunities to develop skills necessary to assume more advanced roles within the firm
• Lives geniant’s core values

As an equal opportunity employer, we welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds.  If this position aligns with your passion and skills and you are excited about the opportunity to shape innovative solutions, then we hope you take the time to apply.