Director of Design

HOK is a collective of future-forward thinkers and designers who are driven to face the critical challenges of our time. We are dedicated to improving people's lives, serving our clients and healing the planet. Together, we cultivate a culture of design excellence at the confluence of art and science, blending the power of creative expression with a clear sense of purpose.

Shape the Future of Interior Design at HOK
Step into a leadership role where creativity meets strategic impact. As Director of Design for HOK's Interiors practice in Washington, DC, you will set the design vision for a dynamic, sustainable studio known for design excellence. Your expertise will elevate design quality, mentor emerging talent, and drive business growth across a diverse portfolio.

Why Join Us?
Great design begins with a great culture. HOK fosters a collaborative, inclusive environment where creativity thrives, and diverse perspectives are valued. Our team is driven by curiosity, united by purpose, and passionate about creating spaces that enrich our lives.

YOUR ROLE
Expand Market Presence

• Alongside the Director of Interiors, cultivate client relationships and a robust project pipeline in the Washington, DC region.
• Pursue high-profile national and international opportunities.
• Collaborate with leadership and subject matter experts to secure strategic projects across aviation, healthcare, justice, sport, and science.

Elevate Design Excellence

• Guide in creative direction and uphold HOK's commitment to human-centered design.
• Advance design standards that reflect innovation and quality.
• Seek recognition through prestigious industry awards.

Strengthen the Practice

• Refine design strategy, assess client portfolios, and shape long-term success.
• Build infrastructure and talent alongside the Director of Interiors.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, creativity, and client-first solutions.

Mentorship & Leadership

• Inspire and coach teams to elevate performance and professional growth.
• Lead design reviews and oversee strategic workload allocation.
• Support diversity, continuing education, and industry engagement.

Client & Project Management

• Represent HOK in meetings and presentations, translating client needs into compelling design solutions.
• Align design milestones with project schedules in collaboration with project managers.
• Ensure seamless project delivery, integrating consultant expertise.

Business & Financial Strategy

• Support marketing efforts through proposals, presentations, and design narratives.
• Align design efforts with budgets and schedules to maintain financial performance.
• Contribute to workload projections and efficient resource management.

Sustainable Design Leadership

• Integrate responsible, environmentally conscious practices into all projects.
• Promote sustainable materials and innovative design solutions.

What You Bring

• Proven leadership in large-scale interior design projects with a portfolio highlighting excellence.
• Expertise in interior architecture, construction methods, FF&E, finishes, lighting, art, signage, and color theory.
• Strong mentorship skills with the ability to inspire high-performing teams.
• Strategic mindset balancing creative vision with operational priorities.
• Business acumen in project planning, scheduling, budgeting, and client management.
• Familiarity with LEED/Fit Well/WELL guidelines and integrated sustainable design practices.

Technology Proficiency

• Strong working knowledge of Revit and BIM workflows.
• Experience with Deltek Vision preferred.
• Proficiency in visualization tools such as SketchUp, Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, and 3D modeling software such as 3ds Max and VIZ.

Education
Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in interior design or architecture required; master's degree preferred.

Experience

• Minimum of 15 years in a large-scale interiors or architectural firm, with at least 10 years in a senior leadership role.

Professional Credentials

• NCIDQ certification required for Interior Designers.
• Registered Architect with current license accepted; NCARB certification preferred.
• LEED accreditation is required within 6 months of hiring.
• Published or award-winning work is a strong plus.

Compensation is based on experience, qualifications, education, and location. The reasonably estimated annual salary range for this position in Washington D.C. is $150,000 to $200,000.

Many of our roles require the use of specific software. Please refer to the Required and Preferred Software & Skills for details.

HOK invests in its people and communities, supporting both personal and professional growth through every stage of life. At HOK you'll have a hybrid work environment, 10 paid holidays (including 2 floating holidays) and a minimum of 4 weeks of paid time off with a cash out option. HOK offers comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, free mental wellness resources, life and AD&D coverage and short and long-term disability benefits. HOK supports your growing family by offering 4 weeks of paid parental leave and fertility coverage. HOK helps to fund your future financial needs with matching contributions to our 401(K) plan which includes a well-rounded investment menu as well as free guidance on retirement planning.

Wherever you are in your career, HOK provides opportunities to learn, develop and utilize your skills. Continued learning is promoted through financial support and study prep for licensure exams, CEU credit opportunities, mentorship programs, and paid professional memberships. To learn more about designing your career with HOK, explore our current job openings.

HOK is an EOE, including disability/vets.