Design Assistant

Timeline Design + Build; Saratoga (CA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

Timeline Design + Build is seeking a motivated Design Assistant to join our design team in a full-time role. You will support interior designers with design concepts, preparation of client presentations, and procurement coordination for high-end residential projects.

The position offers growth in a fast-paced design‑build environment and opportunities to learn from experienced professionals. You will source materials, organize samples, and maintain vendor communications to ensure timely

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in interior design or related field preferred.
• Up to 1–2 years of professional experience in interior design, drafting, procurement, or project coordination preferred.
• Experience with design coordination and procurement processes.

Responsibilities

• Design concept development and documentation support.
• Prepare client presentations and take detailed client meeting notes.
• Manage sample bins and material swatches.
• Source materials from showrooms and suppliers.
• Coordinate with vendors and track OSIs and POs.
• Assist with project scheduling and timecard accuracy.
• Support marketing initiatives and company events.
• Foster communication between designers and project managers.

Skills

Revit

Organization

Time management

Communication

Multitasking

Proactive ownership

Education

Bachelor's degree in interior design

Tools

Adobe Suite

SketchUp

Microsoft Office

Job description

Overview

Timeline Design + Build is looking for a motivated and detail-oriented Design Assistant to join our design team in a full-time position. You’ll work closely with our interior designers to support day-to-day design tasks, client meetings, and material sourcing. You’ll help prepare presentations, manage samples, track selections and coordinate with vendors to ensure timely procurement and delivery. This role involves balancing creativity with project timelines, documentation, and collaboration.

This is an excellent opportunity to gain hands‑on experience with high-end residential projects, learn how design concepts are brought to life, and be mentored by experienced professionals in a fast‑paced, design‑build environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Design Support & Documentation
  • Assist designers with development of design concepts, working drawings, and management of owner-selected items (OSIs) to ensure alignment with project goals.
  • Prepare and organize client presentations, attend client meetings to take detailed notes, document design decisions, and provide timely follow‑up to support clear communication.
  • Maintain and organize project sample bins, interior design libraries, and material swatches, ensuring easy access and accurate inventory.
  • Visit showrooms, vendors, and supplier locations to source materials.
  • Maintain and regularly update vendor contact lists, facilitating ongoing communication with designers and project managers to ensure alignment on timelines and deliverables.
  • Ensure all material and design specifications are accurately documented and communicated to construction teams for smooth project execution.
  • Participate in professional development and training sessions to stay informed about the latest design materials, industry trends, software tools, and best practices.
• Procurement & Vendor Coordination
  • Source, order, and meticulously track owner-selected items (OSIs) and specialty design materials, ensuring timely procurement that meets design specifications and project schedules.
  • Request, review, and compare vendor quotes, product samples, lead times, and availability.
  • Prepare, submit, and track purchase orders (POs); manage vendor receipts and invoices; and maintain tracking software to monitor OSIs, including order status, delivery timelines, and budget compliance.
  • Coordinate timely deliveries to job sites or storage locations, monitor shipments, and resolve any issues related to backorders, damaged goods, or product substitutions promptly and professionally.
• Administrative & Team Support
  • Accurately submit detailed timecards and assist in project tracking to ensure proper billing.
  • Support the design team with marketing initiatives such as preparing materials for design competitions, client events, and company open houses.
  • Contribute to process improvement efforts by identifying workflow efficiencies and supporting implementation of new tools or methods.
  • Represent Timeline Design + Build professionally at community and industry events, fostering positive relationships and brand awareness.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in interior design or related field preferred
• Up to 1-2 years of professional experience in interior design, drafting , procurement, or project coordination preferred.

Skills

• Proficiency in Revit is essential
• Highly organized and attention to detail
• Proficient with design software and project management tools (e.g., Adobe Suite, SketchUp, Microsoft Office)
• Strong time management skills with a willingness to learn and a proactive approach to work ownership
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to multitask and manage deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Enthusiasm to learn and grow within a collaborative design‑build team

Physical Requirements

• Licensed to drive preferred
• Ability to work at a desk for extended periods
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds
• Ability to distinguish between colors is essential

Personal Attributes

• Creative and detail-oriented with a strong sense of style and proportion
• A proactive problem-solver with excellent organizational and leadership skills
• Committed to delivering high-quality design work and ensuring client satisfaction

Career Opportunities

• Work on high-profile residential projects with accomplished homeowners
• Opportunities for professional growth within the design team
• A dynamic, collaborative environment that values creativity, innovation, and excellence