Role: Design Operations Associate (DOA)
About the Role
We are seeking an autonomous, proactive, and self-driven Design Operations Associate to work closely with our Lead Designer (COO). This is a pivotal role that bridges the gap between the design and project execution teams, ensuring smooth coordination from concept development through to project completion.
You will play a key role in supporting design preparation, streamlining studio operations, coordinating information across teams, and helping projects move forward efficiently with clarity and structure.
Key Responsibilities1) Design-to-Execution Coordination
- Assist in preparing design proposals, mood boards, AutoCAD drawings, and SketchUp presentations to support client-facing materials
- Prepare quotations and variation orders when required
- Translate design drafts and drawings into clear, actionable project plans
- Liaise between the design team and project management team to ensure smooth handovers of construction drawings and blueprints
- Work closely with the Lead Designer to ensure all design assets are prepared, organized, and presentation-ready
- Track project timelines, dependencies, and key milestones across both design and execution phases
- Ensure project handovers from design concept to construction documentation are accurate, timely, and well-coordinated
2) Studio & Operations Support
- Support the Lead Designer in managing internal studio processes, from sample sourcing to design presentation preparation
- Maintain organized systems for project documentation, contracts, and client materials
- Proactively identify workflow gaps or operational bottlenecks and suggest improvements as the studio grows
3) Task & Information Management
- Help manage task tracking systems such as Notion, Asana, or other project management tools to maintain visibility on priorities and deadlines
- Prepare concise briefs, summaries, and updates for the Lead Designer ahead of meetings or project check-ins
- Ensure project information is current, accessible, and clearly communicated across teams
4) Client & Team Communication
- Support client communication by summarizing design progress and ensuring project updates are communicated clearly and efficiently
- Coordinate with vendors, contractors, and internal teams, following up independently and proactively
- Help ensure alignment across all stakeholders without the need for repeated instruction
5) Creative & Problem-Solving Support
- Assist with light research, material sourcing, and organizing design references
- Support the team in preparing presentations, lookbooks, and project proposals when needed
- Take on ad hoc tasks and responsibilities as assigned
What Success Looks Like
- The Lead Designer has greater capacity to focus on high-level design strategy and decision-making
- Projects transition smoothly from concept to execution with fewer delays and bottlenecks
- The studio operates more efficiently, with stronger visibility on tasks, timelines, and responsibilities
Requirements
- Strong operational sense with a good understanding of design and project workflows
- Proactive, resourceful, and able to work independently in a fast-moving environment
- Excellent communication and coordination skills, with the ability to work across teams and with clients
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
- Comfortable managing multiple moving parts, priorities, and timelines simultaneously
- Able to follow up consistently and take ownership of tasks with minimal supervision
- Familiarity with design documentation, project coordination, and studio operations is advantageous
- With min. 2-3 years of working experience as Sales Designer, or Interior designer, or Project Manager
- An excellent creative sense as an interior designer, and a great logical sense of a Project Management
- Experience with tools such as Notion, Asana, AutoCAD, SketchUp, or similar platforms is a plus
Remuneration
- Salary: $2,500 $3,500
- Clear opportunities for career progression
- Startup environment with a healthy and collaborative work culture
