Position Summary

The FF&E Interior Designer for K-12 learning environments is responsible for developing, selecting, and overseeing the installation of furniture, fixtures, and equipment that support effective teaching, student engagement, and smooth school operations. This position creates research informed, student focused FF&E solutions that prioritize safety, comfort, adaptability, and long term performance. The designer works collaboratively with architects, interior designers, educators, vendors, and district stakeholders to ensure all decisions reflect curriculum needs, district guidelines, budget limitations, durability expectations, and the broader design vision.

Organizational Values

We partner with organizations that share our commitment to people centered work. Our guiding principles include:

• Supporting and developing people
• Pursuing excellence
• Acting with humility
• Creating space for enjoyment
• Committing to shared success
• Embracing curiosity and exploration
• Remaining genuine and transparent

Essential Responsibilities

Needs Assessment & Educational Programming

• Work directly with school leaders and educators to understand teaching approaches, curriculum goals, user needs, and space requirements.
• Review existing inventories and standards and conduct onsite evaluations to identify project needs.

Space Planning & Layout Development

• Produce FF&E layouts that support flexible instruction, safe circulation, accessibility, and varied learning styles.
• Plan furniture strategies for classrooms, offices, media centers, cafeterias, and specialty spaces.

FF&E Specification

• Select and document K-12 appropriate furniture, fixtures, and equipment using CET, ensuring selections meet performance, ergonomic, and functional standards.
• Prepare complete specification sets, including schedules, product sheets, finish selections, and bid documents.

Design Integration

• Coordinate finishes, colors, and materials so FF&E aligns seamlessly with the overall interior design concept.
• Ensure selections support cohesive, durable, and age appropriate environments.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Lead presentations, workshops, and reviews with educators, administrators, and user groups.
• Incorporate feedback while maintaining project goals, standards, and budget.

Safety & Code Compliance

• Confirm all FF&E meets ADA requirements, fire and life safety standards, and age appropriate safety guidelines.
• Recommend products that foster inclusive, developmentally supportive learning environments.

Vendor & Procurement Coordination

• Build relationships with manufacturers and dealers to stay informed on product updates, pricing, durability, warranties, and availability.
• Prepare purchase ready documentation and assist with bidding, pricing reviews, and submittal processes.

Budget & Cost Control

• Develop cost estimates and alternatives; recommend value engineering options when needed.
• Track FF&E costs throughout the project to ensure they remain aligned with district budget expectations.

Installation & Punchlist

• Coordinate installation activities with dealers and contractors.
• Conduct site reviews to verify accuracy, quality, and placement; manage punchlist items through resolution.

Communication & Documentation

• Produce visual and written materials including renderings, boards, and presentations to convey design intent clearly.
• Maintain organized project files and oversee updates to the interiors resource library.

Non‑Essential Responsibilities

• Support additional project tasks as requested by project leadership.

Supervision

• Works independently under general direction and manages workload using established procedures.
• No supervisory responsibilities.

Education & Experience Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Interior Design, Architecture, or a related discipline.
• At least five years of professional experience in interior design or FF&E focused roles; K-12 experience strongly preferred.
• Skilled in FF&E documentation and specification.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, and CET.
• Understanding of ergonomic, developmental, and flexibility needs specific to K-12 settings.
• Ability to manage multiple deadlines and projects effectively.
• Familiarity with sustainable materials, high durability products, and procurement standards for educational environments.
• Strong communication and presentation abilities.
• Knowledge of ADA requirements, building codes, and established best practices for school design.

Other Skills & Abilities

• Strong organizational and detail‑oriented approach.
• Ability to translate program requirements into clear FF&E strategies and visuals.
• Skilled in problem solving, vendor coordination, and negotiation.
• Understanding of architectural/engineering workflows to ensure seamless FF&E integration.
• Capable of working independently and collaboratively in a fast paced setting.
• Willingness to travel across Michigan 2-3 days per week for site visits and meetings.

If you are interested in this job, apply now!