Interior Designer - K-12 Educational Environments (Project-Based)

Company Descriptionminds@work is an independent design firm specializing in evidence-based K-12 learning environment design, furniture specification, and post-occupancy evaluation. Led by Design Principal Darra Bishop, we partner with educators, architects, and district procurement teams to create flexible, durable classrooms that improve student engagement and maximize budget efficiency. Our independence means we don’t take commissions on products — every recommendation is made in the school’s best interest.Role DescriptionWe are seeking an experienced Interior Designer to join our team on a project basis for upcoming K-12 educational design projects across Southern California. This is a contract position that is contingent upon project award — as minds@work secures new school district contracts, team members are engaged for the duration of each project. This structure offers meaningful, impactful work with flexibility, and the potential for ongoing engagement as our project pipeline grows.What You Will Do:•       Collaborate with the Design Principal to develop space plans, furniture layouts, and FF&E specifications for K-12 classroom, administrative, and specialty spaces•       Produce detailed 2D floor plans and design documentation using CAD software (ArchiCAD, AutoCAD or Revit).•       Participate in stakeholder workshops with educators, administrators, and architectural teams to gather input and present design concepts•       Research and specify furniture, fixtures, and equipment evaluated for durability, flexibility, accessibility, and alignment with pedagogical goals•       Develop Lookbooks and visual presentations to communicate design intent to school leadership and district representatives•       Support procurement activities including vendor coordination, quote requests, and specification review•       Assist with installation logistics, post-occupancy evaluations, and educator training on furniture functionality•       Ensure all designs comply with ADA accessibility standards and district-specific requirementsQualificationsRequired•       4+ years of professional interior design experience, with a focus on commercial, institutional, or educational environments•       Proficiency in ArchiCAD, AutoCAD, Revit or equivalent design software•       Strong space planning skills with the ability to translate educational program requirements into functional layouts•       Experience with furniture specification and procurement processes•       Excellent communication and presentation skills — comfortable engaging with educators, principals, architects, and district staff•       Portfolio demonstrating relevant project work (educational, institutional, or commercial interiors)•       Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Interior Design, Interior Architecture, or related fieldPreferred•       NCIDQ Certification or California Certified Interior Designer (CID) credential•       Direct experience designing K-12 learning environments, including classrooms, makerspaces, libraries, or specialty instructional spaces•       Familiarity with evidence-based design principles, Universal Design for Learning (UDL), and pro-social learning environments•       Experience working with school districts, public agencies, or bond-funded construction projects•       Knowledge of FF&E budgeting for public education projects•       LEED, WELL, or A4LE certification or courseworkProject-Contingent EngagementThis position is project-contingent, meaning engagement is tied to the award of specific school district contracts. Here’s what that means for you:Transparent pipeline: We will keep you informed of upcoming proposals and project timelines so you can plan accordingly.Named on proposals: With your permission, you will be listed as a project team member on RFP submissions, strengthening both the proposal and your professional visibility.Flexible commitment: Project durations typically range from 3-18 months. Hours and schedule are discussed per project and can accommodate other professional commitments.Growth potential: As our project pipeline expands, there is potential for ongoing and overlapping project engagements.Compensation & DetailsRate: Competitive hourly rate commensurate with experience ($38-$48 hour)Type: 1099 Independent ContractorLocation: Southern California (Los Angeles and San Diego metro areas). Hybrid — remote design work with in-person site visits, stakeholder meetings, and installation oversight as needed.Project scope: K-12 school modernization and new construction projects with FF&E budgets ranging from $200K to $5M+.How to ApplySubmit your resume, portfolio (or portfolio link), and a brief note about your interest in K-12 educational design to darra@mindsatwork.us. Please include your availability and whether you hold NCIDQ or CID certification.minds@work is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all team members.