Head of Future-Forward Workplace Design

Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM); New York (NY); On-site; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) seeks a strategic Associate Principal – Director of Workplace Design to advance interior projects from pursuit through construction administration. This role leads design direction, client relationships, and interdisciplinary coordination, while guiding teams under a Principal or Partner.

Focus on hybrid work, ABW, wellness, and sustainability. The ideal candidate brings strong experience in workplace interiors, publications, and business development, with the

Qualifications

• Professional degree in Interior Design, Interior Architecture, Architecture, or related discipline.
• Professional licensure in the state of practice or NCIDQ certification required; LEED accreditation preferred.
• Demonstrated experience leading corporate/workplace interiors projects.
• Strong knowledge of workplace planning, FF&E, materials, building systems, and coordination with engineering.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and client-management skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and development of workplace interiors across multiple phases from pursuit to construction administration.
• Translate client goals and program requirements into spatial concepts and design narratives.
• Direct workplace planning, test fits, programming, and space standards.
• Coordinate with engineers, consultants, and vendors to ensure design quality.
• Mentor teams, manage project staffing, and support business development.

Skills

Design leadership

Studio management

Client relations

Presentation skills

Team mentorship

Interdisciplinary coordination

Education

Bachelor's degree in Interior Design/Interior Architecture/Architecture

Tools

Revit

Adobe Creative Suite

Rhino

Enscape

Navisworks

Job description

Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM) seeks a strategic Associate Principal – Director of Workplace Design to advance interior projects from pursuit through construction administration. This role leads design direction, client relationships, and interdisciplinary coordination, while guiding teams under a Principal or Partner.

Focus on hybrid work, ABW, wellness, and sustainability. The ideal candidate brings strong experience in workplace interiors, publications, and business development, with the