Commercial Furniture Dealer Designer

Michigan Office Environments

Commercial Furniture Dealer Designer

Kalamazoo, MI
Full Time
Paid
  • Responsibilities

    Benefits:

    401(k)

    401(k) matching

    Company parties

    Dental insurance

    Flexible schedule

    Health insurance

    Opportunity for advancement

    Paid time off

    Training & development

    The Furniture Dealership Designer is responsible for leading the planning, design, specification, and execution of complex commercial furniture projects. This role serves as the technical design expert, partnering with Account Executives, clients, architects, contractors, and project managers to deliver innovative, functional, and budget-conscious workplace environments. The Designer manages projects from initial programming through installation.

    Essential Responsibilities

    Project Leadership & Space Planning

    Lead programming, space planning, and furniture application strategies for corporate, healthcare, education, and government environments.

    Interpret architectural drawings, construction documents, and client requirements to develop effective furniture solutions.

    Create detailed floor plans, installation drawings, renderings, and presentation materials.

    Ensure designs comply with ADA, life-safety, and applicable building code requirements.

    Furniture Specification & Documentation

    Develop accurate furniture specifications using CET Designer and manufacturer specification tools.

    Generate pricing, bills of materials, installation drawings, and supporting project documentation.

    Review specifications for accuracy, functionality, and alignment with project budgets.

    Coordinate finish selections and product applications across multiple manufacturers and ancillary vendors.

    Client & Consultant Collaboration

    Participate in client meetings, site visits, and design presentations alongside Account Executives.

    Collaborate with architects, designers, contractors, electricians, and IT teams to coordinate furniture, power, and technology requirements.

    Provide technical expertise regarding product applications, installation requirements, and workplace best practices.

    Support value engineering efforts while maintaining design intent and project goals.

    Project Coordination & Quality Assurance

    Partner with project managers and operations teams to ensure smooth project execution.

    Conduct design reviews and quality control checks prior to order entry.

    Assist in resolving field conditions, specification issues, and installation challenges.

    Support punch-list resolution and project closeout activities as needed.

    Qualifications

    Education

    Bachelor's degree in Interior Design, Architecture, or a related field.

    Experience

    2-5+ years of commercial furniture dealership experience required.

    Experience managing projects from concept through installation.

    Demonstrated expertise in systems furniture, ancillary products, and workplace design.

    Technical Skills

    Advanced proficiency in CET Designer.

    Proficiency in AutoCAD and Microsoft Office Suite.

    Experience with specification software and manufacturer extensions such as Spec and CET Designer extensions.

    Strong understanding of furniture systems, power/data integration, and installation practices.

    Key Competencies

    Strategic space planning

    Technical problem-solving

    Project management

    Client relationship management

    Attention to detail and accuracy

    Team leadership and mentoring

    Written and verbal communication

    Budget awareness and value engineering