Designer, Furniture Application Specialist

Holmes + Brakel; Eastern Ontario; On-site; CAD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Holmes + Brakel is seeking a Designer, Furniture Applications Specialist to create functional and inspiring designs. This full-time role involves generating plans, consulting with clients, and ensuring compliance with specifications. Join a family-oriented team in Ottawa with a focus on innovative workplaces.

Benefits

Health benefits

Paid vacation

Qualifications

• Experience in contract furniture or related industry.
• Client-facing roles experience required.

Responsibilities

• Generate product and space plans for sales team.
• Consult with clients and confirm requirements.
• Develop specifications and cost estimates.

Skills

Design experience

Attention to detail

Customer service orientation

Project management

Education

Post-secondary education in interior design

Tools

AutoCAD

Project Matrix

CET Configura

Job description

It takes a lot of work to transform 10,000 empty square feet into a beautiful office. And while it’s great to see the finished product, it all starts with the right design: the perfect layout that gives everyone enough space; the right fabrics and textures that make people feel welcome and comfortable. If you’re ready to turn your ideas into functional, inspiring designs for major projects, we’ve got an opportunity for you.

Since 1975, Holmes + Brakel has been delivering unparalleled value in the furniture industry. Specializing in innovative workplaces for corporate, healthcare, and education markets, we offer a full suite of services including design, sourcing, and installation. Our success relies on unwavering customer focus; as a family business, we've maintained this focus since inception. Due to our growth, we’re expanding our design team and seeking top design professionals with strong technical skills and attention to detail.

Position: Designer, Furniture Applications Specialist

As our new Designer, you’ll generate product and space plans for our sales team, creating custom designs based on client specifications that balance aesthetics, functionality, and cost. Your designs will be solutions tailored to meet specific client needs, utilizing computer-generated plans, 3D models, and renderings to bring ideas to life.

This role requires creativity and precision—whether selecting furniture for a lawyer’s office or auditing materials for accuracy. Your attention to detail, customer service orientation, and ability to manage multiple projects will be essential.

Responsibilities include:

1. Consult with the sales team and visit client sites to confirm details, dimensions, and requirements, serving as a technical resource.
2. Generate scale drawings and 3D models, ensuring compatibility with site conditions such as power and data access.
3. Develop accurate specifications and bill of materials, including cost estimates; contribute to RFPs, tenders, and proposals; prepare presentation materials; and participate in client meetings.
4. Review and audit specifications before ordering and coordinate with installers to ensure compliance.
5. Engage in client consultations, translating needs into actionable design principles, and presenting solutions to clients and internal teams.
6. Assess project plans for feasibility and compliance with local codes and site requirements.

Working with Holmes + Brakel:

This is a full-time, permanent position based in our Ottawa office, Monday to Friday. Benefits include a competitive salary, health benefits, and paid vacation. We are proud of our family-oriented culture and long employee tenure.

Qualifications:

• Design experience in contract furniture, dealership, manufacturer, or related industry.
• Post-secondary education in interior design or related field (e.g., architectural technologist) is an asset.
• Experience in client-facing roles.
• Proficiency with MS Office, spreadsheets, and project management software.
• Experience with furniture design and specification software (AutoCAD, Project Matrix, CET Configura, etc.).
• Strong math skills and ability to produce accurate cost estimates.
• Ability to distinguish and identify colors.
• Experience preparing and delivering presentations to clients and stakeholders.

We thank all applicants; only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Holmes + Brakel is an equal opportunity employer. Reasonable accommodations are available upon request to support accessibility needs.