Senior Interior Designer - Calgary - Zeidler Architecture

Description

Overview

At Zeidler Architecture, we believe that design has the power to shape experiences and transform communities. As a leading Canadian architectural practice with a legacy spanning over 70 years, we are known for delivering thoughtful, innovative, and enduring design solutions across sectors and geographies. Rooted in a deep commitment to collaboration, design excellence, and sustainability, Zeidler brings together a diverse team of professionals united by a shared purpose: to create impactful architecture that connects people and elevates the built environment. We are currently seeking a Senior Interior Designer to join the Calgary Studio.

Job Summary

The Senior Interior Designer is a senior-level interior designer responsible for driving design development, managing documentation, and coordinating with consultants and clients. This role leads interior design tasks within large projects or manages smaller-scale interiors projects independently.

Key Responsibilities

Design and Documentation

• Lead the development of interior design concepts in collaboration with design leadership.
• Oversee design detailing, material selection, and documentation production.
• Prepare and review contract documents, ensuring alignment with design intent and code requirements.
• Lead FF&E strategy, selections, and documentation.

Project Support and Coordination

• Strong knowledge of building codes, accessibility standards, and construction methods.
• Manage project execution from start to finish, including planning, scheduling, budgeting, scope definition, resourcing, and profitability.
• Manage contracts with clients and subconsultants.
• Support marketing team with the development of proposals and fees.
• Establish and adhere to office expectations for financial performance, staffing efficiency, and project milestones.
• Lead regular internal project meetings and communicate status updates to Operations and the Partner-in-Charge, at a minimum monthly.
• Coordinate and oversee project activities, ensuring alignment with office Project Delivery processes, filing systems, and documentation standards.
• Attend site meetings, perform site reviews, and manage contract administration activities such as reviewing shop drawings, issuing site instructions, and addressing RFIs.
• Prepare and manage authority submission packages, including building permit approvals.
• Identify and manage project risks, escalate issues as required, and implement mitigation strategies.
• Ensure all project work complies with health and safety policies and applicable legal requirements.
• Contribute to the development of proposals and business development initiatives for the studio.

Team and Culture

• Foster a collaborative environment and contribute to a high-performance project culture.
• Ensure adherence to all health and safety standards.
• Champion Zeidler's industry reputation through engagement, leadership, and professionalism.
• This position requires 100% in-office and/or site presence to support in-person collaboration, real-time mentorship, and effective cross-functional alignment across teams and disciplines.

Qualifications

• Professional Degree or diploma in Interior Design from a recognized institution.
• 7 + years of architectural experience with increasing responsibility; proven track record leading complex interior projects.
• Registered Interior Designer in good standing with a Canadian provincial interior design association (e.g., ARIDO, IDA, IDIBC).
• Demonstrated project management skills, including scope, schedule, resource, and financial oversight.
• Advanced proficiency with BIM platforms, particularly Revit; familiarity with AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite, MS Office and Vantagepoint (Deltek).
• Knowledge of local construction systems, sustainable building practices, technical detailing, and QA/QC methodologies.
• Experience preparing construction tender documents and coordinating authority submissions.
• Strong experience with internal design reviews, quality control, and client-facing coordination.
• PMP certification is considered an asset.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and lead multidisciplinary teams with clarity and professionalism.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Willingness and ability to travel for site visits, client meetings, and professional development as needed

Why Join Us?

At Zeidler, you'll be part of a nationally respected architectural practice with deep Canadian roots and a legacy of award-winning work across sectors—from civic landmarks and community spaces to advanced research and workplace environments.

We foster a collaborative, inclusive studio culture that values creativity, accountability, and design integrity. With studios in Toronto, Calgary, Vancouver, and Victoria, we offer the opportunity to work on projects across the country and beyond, supported by teams who are passionate about architecture's potential to make a positive impact.

Here's what you can expect as part of our team:

• A respectful, supportive, and engaging in-office environment
• Opportunities for mentorship, leadership, and professional growth at all levels
• A strong commitment to sustainability and continuous learning
• Competitive compensation with an annual profit share
• Comprehensive benefits, including extended health and dental, EFAP, wellness spending, and professional membership reimbursement
• PATO Days (additional time off around long weekends and holiday closures)
• Wellness initiatives, training programs, and social events that strengthen our studio culture

If you\'re a motivated and inspired individual who thrives in a fast-paced, design-driven environment and is excited to grow within a collaborative team, we'd love to hear from you.

Zeidler is committed to equal opportunity for all employees and applicants, and we stand by our principles for a diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace.

Disclaimer: Zeidler Architecture does not make offers outside of its official hiring process, or engage with third-party recruiters, or use AI to analyze resumes, applications, or interview. All decisions are made by our hiring team. For information on Zeidler's official recruitment process and how to avoid fraudulent offers, please review our Recruitment & Fraud Awareness notice here.