Kellow Construction is seeking a full-time Interior Designer to join our high-end design-build team in Santa Barbara. We specialize in timeless residential remodels and are known for a seamless, professional client experience from concept through construction.
This role blends strong creative vision with real-world buildability. You will lead residential remodels from concept through completion, collaborating closely with clients, company leadership, and the build team. The ideal candidate is confident, emotionally mature, highly organized, and comfortable fully owning the design process.
You will take the lead on design development, material and FF&E selections, client presentations, and design documentation for kitchens, baths, and whole-home remodels. A strong design eye, deep technical knowledge, and the ability to guide clients decisively are essential.
ABOUT US
Kellow Construction is a family-run design-build firm guided by the values of Responsiveness, Professionalism, Financial Responsibility, and Excellence. Our work is known for superior design, proven process, quality craftsmanship, beauty, and integrity.
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
Salary: $110,000–$135,000 annually, DOE (exempt from overtime)
Schedule: Full-time, 40 hours per week, in person
Benefits include:
10 paid holidays per year
80 hours paid time off
40 hours paid sick time
Robust health and life insurance (employer pays $475/month toward employee premium)
Dental insurance available at low employee cost
Employer match up to 3% of annual salary into either a SIMPLE IRA or Dependent Care FSA
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Design Development & Documentation
Serve as senior design lead for high-end residential remodels from concept through permit-ready plans
Produce accurate, highly detailed drawings in Chief Architect or Revit/CAD (floor plans, elevations, sections, cabinetry layouts, interior details)
Create conceptual designs and technical construction documents aligned with budgets, timelines, and construction standards
Prepare complete permitting packages and coordinate with local planning and building departments
Maintain accuracy across all drawings, specifications, and selections
Develop and manage design schedules and milestones
Work with the design team on receiving, quality control, returns, and vendor negotiations
Client & Team Collaboration
Act as the primary design authority for clients
Confidently lead all design meetings and guide clients through decisions
Present materials, fixtures, and finishes aligned with project goals
Translate client feedback into buildable, coordinated designs
Collaborate closely with estimating and project management teams
Maintain clear, professional, and responsive communication with all stakeholders
Fully own coordination with vendors and consultants
FF&E, Procurement & Vendor Management
Lead all FF&E selection, specification, and documentation
Prepare and manage Purchase Orders for client-approved items
Coordinate with vendors, showrooms, and suppliers on pricing, lead times, and delivery
Maintain organized FF&E schedules and ensure seamless handoff to construction and admin teams
Confidently lead showroom visits and procurement workflows
Closing the Loop & Reducing Bottlenecks
Demonstrate a strong “closer” mentality
Drive design decisions forward and prevent delays
Guide clients to timely decisions with clarity and confidence
Proactively identify and resolve design bottlenecks
Maintain ownership of all open design items until fully resolved
Design Expertise & Technical Proficiency
Deep expertise in kitchen and bath design, cabinetry, appliances, plumbing, lighting, and custom millwork
Strong working knowledge of materials, finishes, and interior detailing
Create clear 3D models and presentations that communicate design intent
Ensure all drawings meet industry standards, constructability, and code requirements
QUALIFICATIONS
Senior-level designer with 6+ years of residential design experience
Proven ability to fully lead and own the design process end-to-end
High proficiency in Chief Architect or similar software
Strong understanding of Santa Barbara residential codes and permitting
Experience managing full FF&E procurement and Purchase Orders
Excellent organizational, communication, and time management skills
Confident decision-maker with strong follow-through
Professional, low-ego, kind, and quality-driven
Deep knowledge of interior design, FF&E, and material specifications
WHY JOIN KELLOW CONSTRUCTION
Work on meaningful, high-quality remodels
Collaborate with a skilled, respectful team
Enjoy a balance of creative design and construction involvement
Make a real difference in clients’ homes and lives
HOW TO APPLY
Please send your resume, portfolio, and desired salary to:
Emily (reply to CL relay)
We look forward to hearing from you.
