Design Assistant

Job description:

Design Assistant

Company: Compass Ventures

Location: Sevierville, TN (Smoky Mountain Region)

Job Type: Full-Time

About Compass

Compass is a real estate development and design company focused on creating thoughtfully designed homes and luxury short-term rental properties. We are passionate about delivering beautiful, functional, and cohesive interiors that elevate the guest experience and add long-term value to our properties.

We are seeking a talented Design Assistant who can manage both traditional interior design responsibilities and the sourcing, selection, and installation of furniture and décor to bring our projects fully to life.

Position Overview

The Design Assistant will be responsible for designing interior spaces from concept through completion, including finish selections, furniture sourcing, décor styling, and installation coordination. This role requires both creative vision and strong organizational skills, with the ability to execute cohesive designs that align with our brand and development goals.

Key Responsibilities

Interior Design & Space Planning

• Develop cohesive interior design concepts for residential and short-term rental properties
• Create mood boards, design presentations, and finish palettes
• Select materials, finishes, fixtures, lighting, and color schemes
• Produce furniture layouts and space plans

Furniture & Décor Sourcing

• Source furniture, lighting, artwork, rugs, and décor consistent with the design vision and budget
• Identify and maintain relationships with vendors, suppliers, and wholesale accounts
• Create detailed furnishing schedules and specification sheets
• Ensure selections balance aesthetics, durability, functionality, and cost

Project Coordination & Installation

• Coordinate ordering, tracking, and delivery of furnishings and décor
• Oversee installation and styling of interiors to ensure design intent is achieved
• Assist with project timelines and budgets related to furnishing and interiors
• Work collaboratively with the development team, contractors, and other vendors

Styling & Final Presentation

• Style completed properties for photography, marketing, and guest readiness
• Ensure final spaces feel cohesive, elevated, and thoughtfully finished

Qualifications

• Degree in Interior Design or related field preferred
• 2+ years of interior design experience preferred
• Strong eye for design, color, scale, and composition
• Experience sourcing furniture and décor from retail and wholesale vendors
• Proficiency in design software (SketchUp, AutoCAD, Canva, or similar) preferred
• Strong organizational and project management skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate is both creative and highly organized, with a passion for designing beautiful, functional spaces. They are comfortable managing both the conceptual design process and the detailed execution of furnishing and styling projects.

Experience with residential, hospitality, or short-term rental properties is a plus.

What We Offer

• Opportunity to work on unique and high-end development projects
• Creative, collaborative work environment
• Competitive compensation based on experience
• Opportunity for growth as our company continues to expand

Job Types: Full-time

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan

Work Location: In person