ABA Architects Inc. is seeking an Intermediate Interior Designer to contribute to interior design projects from early planning through construction completion. Working with senior design and project leadership, this role is responsible for developing design concepts, coordinating documentation and specifications, supporting construction administration, and helping projects advance within established quality, scope, schedule and budget requirements.

The successful candidate will be a versatile and collaborative designer who can translate client needs into functional, fiscally responsible and visually compelling solutions, coordinate effectively in a multidisciplinary environment, and provide guidance to junior team members.

Key Responsibilities:

Design Development

· Gather planning information and analyze client needs, goals, budget and operational requirements.

· Contribute to and lead concept development through space planning, sketching, rendering, material research, directional imagery and finish selection.

· Develop and present design recommendations that respond to function, aesthetics, regulatory requirements and long-term client priorities.

· Advance approved concepts through schematic design and design development, refining the design language into coordinated, buildable solutions.

Documentation & Coordination

· Prepare and coordinate construction drawing, specification and FF&E; packages, including plans, elevations, details, millwork, custom furniture, finishes, hardware, plumbing fixtures and equipment.

· Coordinate product information, samples and specifications with vendors and the specification team.

· Work with architects, project managers, technical staff and external consultants, including structural, mechanical, electrical, lighting, signage and kitchen specialists.

· Assist with code analysis,



regulatory approvals and the delivery of work in accordance with ABA’s documentation and quality standards.

Construction Administration

· Lead and support the construction administration process by responding to contractor and vendor questions, reviewing shop drawings and submittals, and preparing site clarifications.

· Participate in site meetings/reviews and evaluate construction for conformance with the design intent and contract documents.

· Provide design and product information to support budgeting, coordination and timely project decisions during construction.

Team & Practice Contribution

· Organize assigned work and deliverables to meet project timelines, fee expectations and client budgets across multiple concurrent projects.

· Communicate clearly with clients, consultants, vendors, contractors and internal team members while fostering strong working relationships.

· Share design and technical knowledge with junior designers and contribute to their training and development.

· Assist senior staff with presentations, proposals and business development initiatives, and support the Interior Design and Architecture groups as required.

· Foster and cultivate good client relationships.

Qualifications & Experience

· Minimum 5 years of experience in an interior design environment, with demonstrated involvement across concept design, documentation and construction.





· Bachelor’s degree or diploma from a recognized interior design program; eligibility or ability to register with ARIDO.

· Working knowledge of the Ontario Building Code, standard construction practices, building structure, systems and operations.

· Experience preparing coordinated construction drawings, details, specifications and FF&E; documentation.

· Understand a variety of project delivery models.

· Proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD and Microsoft Office; experience with Adobe Creative Suite, SketchUp and digital or hand-rendering tools is an asset.

· Familiarity with interior materials, furniture systems, lighting, plumbing fixtures, construction assemblies and vendor resources.

What Success Looks Like

· Strong design judgment, creative ability and attention to detail.

· Clear, professional communication and effective collaboration within a multidisciplinary team.

· Sound problem-solving, organization and time management, with the ability to anticipate needs and meet deadlines.

· Increasing ownership of project deliverables and confidence moving work forward with appropriate senior guidance.

· A cooperative approach to mentoring junior staff and contributing to continuous improvement across the practice.

Location: Waterloo, ON

Qualified candidates are invited to submit a résumé, work samples and references to [email protected]. ABA Architects Inc. welcomes applications from qualified candidates. Accommodation is available at any stage of the application process. For accommodation-related requests or information, contact [email protected] or (phone hidden).

Pay: $55,000.00-$75,000.00 per year

Benefits

- Dental care
- Extended health care
- RRSP match

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Waterloo, ON N2V 1C5

📌 Intermediate Interior Designer (Waterloo)
🏢 ABA Architects
📍 Waterloo