Lead Designer - Luxury Kitchen & Cabinetry

NKBA; Washington, Northern (District of Columbia, KY); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Ateliers Jacob DC is seeking a talented Project Designer to own the full journey of each client project, from initial inquiry through installation. You will lead design decisions, coordinate with trade partners, and build lasting client relationships.

With 5+ years in upscale kitchen/cabinetry design and strong CAD skills, you’ll collaborate with a Senior Technical Designer and Project Manager in a Washington, DC studio that values craftsmanship and genuine connections.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in kitchen/cabinetry design or related high-end residential design.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• A strong design portfolio showing refined aesthetic judgement in kitchen, cabinetry, interior, or related residential design.
• Comfort working in CAD software (Vectorworks, Chief Architect, or similar).
• Experience working directly with clients as a trusted advisor.
• Ability to juggle multiple projects with great attention to detail.
• A collaborative mindset — you're excited to partner with technical experts and work within shared systems.

Responsibilities

• Build trusted, lasting relationships with clients and trade partners — from first inquiry through post-installation follow-up.
• Lead discovery conversations with genuine curiosity to understand each client's goals, budget, and vision.
• Guide decisions on materials, finishes, and design details with confidence and clarity.
• Develop complete design documentation (floor plans, elevations, specifications) using CAD software.
• Keep projects moving forward — coordinating timelines, decisions, and the right people at the right moments.
• Lead proposals and pricing conversations, always focused on communicating value and craftsmanship.
• Represent Ateliers Jacob DC at showroom events and industry gatherings.

Skills

Kitchen design

Client advisory

CAD software

Portfolio

Multitasking

Collaborative mindset

Education

BA in Interior Design/Architecture

Tools

Vectorworks

Chief Architect

Job description

Ateliers Jacob DC is seeking a talented Project Designer to own the full journey of each client project, from initial inquiry through installation. You will lead design decisions, coordinate with trade partners, and build lasting client relationships.

With 5+ years in upscale kitchen/cabinetry design and strong CAD skills, you’ll collaborate with a Senior Technical Designer and Project Manager in a Washington, DC studio that values craftsmanship and genuine connections.