I5 - Interior Designer at CetraRuddy in New York, NY

I5 - Interior Designer

Location: New York, New York

OVERVIEW

CetraRuddy is an award-winning global architecture, planning and interior design firm driven by design excellence and the belief that Architecture Is Home. For three decades, the firm has led with a guiding principle that architecture and design must engage in context and enrich the human spirit, seeking opportunities to craft innovative solutions and lead clients on their journeys toward building a new legacy. The firm’s portfolio of work is defined by crafted details, innovative use of materials and contextual sensitivity across various market sectors including residential, hospitality, educational, cultural, and commercial.

We are currently seeking a Senior Interior Designer with specialized experience in multifamily residential projects, particularly in the design and transformation of office spaces into residential buildings. This role offers the unique opportunity to contribute to impactful projects while upholding the firm’s dedication to quality, creativity, and contextual integrity.

As a Senior Interior Designer, you will lead complex projects from concept through final detailing, bringing senior-level design leadership paired with a strong aesthetic sensibility and the ability to make thoughtful, aligned design decisions. The ideal candidate has previous experience mentoring team members and collaborating across disciplines and with clients, all while managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced studio environment.

You will oversee the coordination of interior documentation and FF&E specifications, while also guiding Intermediate Designers to ensure their work aligns with CetraRuddy’s continued evolution of multifamily design by prioritizing quality, functionality, and design integrity.

We offer a comprehensive benefits package, a hybrid optional working environment on Mondays and Fridays, and opportunities for professional development within a collaborative team.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead the development of design layouts, frameworks, and overall interior direction across large-scale multi-family residential projects, ensuring alignment with project goals and design intent.

• Provide guidance and oversight to Intermediate Designers, managing internal teams and delegating tasks to support high-quality execution and studio-wide growth.

• Work alongside other senior staff and Principals to successfully execute project administration.

• Oversee the creation and refinement of drawings, renderings, and presentations for internal reviews, client meetings, consultant coordination, and construction phases.

• Manage Construction Administration efforts including submittal reviews, RFIs, site visits, and punch list walkthroughs to ensure design intent is carried through to completion.

• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients and consultants, maintaining strong relationships while identifying opportunities to cultivate new ones.

• Lead the development of space planning strategies, schematic design presentations, and design narratives that reflect project goals, budgets, and client expectations.

• Direct the presentation of design concepts, mood boards, and visual materials that clearly communicate vision and support stakeholder alignment and approvals.

• Oversee the selection and specification of materials, finishes, fixtures, and furnishings, including the development of FF&E packages and custom furniture drawings that align with design direction and budget.

• Ensure all designs meet firm and client standards, as well as applicable codes, safety regulations, and accessibility requirements, with deep knowledge of ADA compliance.

• Lead consultant coordination and manage the interiors scope through all phases, ensuring clear communication and collaboration across disciplines.

SKILLS & REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design or related field.

• Minimum of 10 years of experience in an interior design firm, with at
  least 6+ years supporting large-scale multifamily or adaptive reuse residential projects.

• Strong proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite, SketchUp, and FF&E documentation tools.

• Can provide a strong design sensibility with an advanced understanding of design principles, aesthetics, and interior detailing across all project phases.

• Demonstrates strong presentation skills with the ability to remain poised and confident, effectively translating client and team feedback into actionable deliverables across all project phases.

• Manage complex projects from schematic design through construction administration, including documentation, finish coordination, and FF&E integration.

• Lead coordination efforts with clients, consultants, and internal teams, and translate feedback into clear, actionable deliverables.

• Mentor and delegate to Intermediate and Junior Designers, supporting their development while maintaining design quality and project efficiency.

• Apply strong written and verbal communication skills, with a proactive mindset and collaborative approach to leadership.
• Engage in firm-wide initiatives and contribute to a supportive, inclusive studio culture.