Design Associate

BOWA; McLean (VA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

BOWA is seeking a Design Associate to join our luxury residential design/build team in the United States. The role supports designers and architects from concept to production-ready plans, ensuring alignment with the BOWA Classic Design/Build Process.

You will work closely with the Design Team to craft high-end residential spaces, participate in client presentations, and contribute to project documentation and selections.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design or Architecture from an accredited university.
• 3–5+ years of experience in interior design, architecture, or design/build environments.
• Experience supporting all phases of a project from concept to construction.
• Proactive, collaborative, and solutions-oriented mindset.

Responsibilities

• Prepare existing condition drawings, schematic concepts, presentation materials and construction documents.
• Incorporate revisions accurately and promptly.
• Assist with site measurements, photographs, existing condition verification and documentation.
• Research selections and collaborate with designers on selections.
• Provide support in client presentations and meetings.

Skills

Detail oriented

Team player

Creative problem solving

Project support

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design or Architecture

Tools

AutoCAD

SketchUp

Chief Architect

MS Office

Canva

Photoshop

Job description

We’re seeking a passionate Design Associate to join our high-performing team at a premier luxury residential design/build firm. This role is ideal for an entry to mid-level professional with 3–5+ years of experience in an interior design, architecture, or design/build environment who thrives in a collaborative team environment and client-focused setting.

As a Design Associate, you’ll play a key role on each project team—partnering with a Project Leader (Sales), Production Manager, and senior designers or architects—to bring stunning home transformations to life. You’ll be responsible for assisting designers and architects on projects from concept to production ready plans, ensuring each detail aligns with The BOWA Classic Design/Build Process.

Working closely with the Design Team and other internal collaborators, you'll assist in the creative development and technical execution of thoughtfully crafted, high-end residential spaces that delight our discerning clientele.

Rules and responsibilities

• Design/Drawing Support
• Field Documentation
• Selections Support

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Prepare existing condition drawings, schematic concepts, presentation materials and construction documents
• Incorporate revisions accurately and promptly
• Assist with site measurements, photographs, existing condition verification and documentation, identify inconsistencies and bring them to the attention of the senior designer
• Research selections
• Collaborate with designers on selections
• Provide a support role in client presentations and meetings

Supervisory Responsibilities

• This position does not have any supervisory responsibilities.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design or Architecture from an accredited University.
• True passion for residential design and a strong understanding of the remodeling process
• Selections experience is a plus
• Design/Build Experience is a bonus!
• A collaborative spirit—someone who enjoys being part of a tight-knit, high-performing team
• Proactive, solutions-oriented mindset and strong creative problem-solving skills
• Experience supporting all phases of a project, from concept through construction.
• A balance of independent drive and the ability to take direction and contribute within a team
• Excellent attention to detail and love for the nitty gritty details which make each project authentic.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to meet deadlines and keep projects moving according to a projected schedule
• Desire to grow within a dynamic design/build environment

Technical Skills

• Proficiency in AutoCAD for architectural plans
• Proficiency in SketchUp for 3D modeling
• Experience with Chief Architect is a plus
• Comfort with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint)
• Graphic design skills, including familiarity with Canva and Photoshop