Interior Designer V

Job Overview

The Bureau of Overseas Buildings Operations (OBO) directs the worldwide overseas building program for the U.S. Department of State. As the single real property manager for the U.S. government’s diplomatic facilities overseas, OBO’s portfolio spans 285 worldwide missions and over 80,000,000 square feet of functioning property. The Program Development, Coordination, and Support Directorate (PDCS) is responsible for the design, coordination, and management of OBO’s construction and renovation programs.

This role supports the Interior Design Division (OBO/PDCS/DE/) as an Interior Designer assigned to PDCS/DE/.

• Coordinate, track, and monitor program‑wide requirements and schedules to support OBO’s overseas building program.
• Evaluate and select leased properties, review facilities for conformance to facility requirements, and prepare studies indicating how properties may be utilized or improved.
• Assist in evaluation of architect/engineer and interior design contracts; review preliminary designs for program conformity, technical sufficiency, and general suitability; provide design guidance; participate in value engineering studies.
• Reconcile design issues with internal and external stakeholders; coordinate with engineering disciplines regarding structural, mechanical, security, fire protection, and telecommunications/electrical requirements of projects; oversee review of plans and specifications for fire protection, physical safety, and conformity with the International Building Code; evaluate performance of commissioned architects/engineers regarding adherence to contract terms, work progress, and payment for services.
• Support and advise with the preparation of preliminary and final design for projects on which no contract architects or interior designers are commissioned; develop sketches illustrating possibilities for development of work performed by the Division; travel domestically and abroad to inspect and consult when on‑site knowledge of conditions is required.
• Assist in the resolution of issues submitted from the field; advise field supervisors on intent of drawings and specifications; maintain a comprehensive digital record of all project activities; participate in post‑occupancy evaluations as a member of an interdisciplinary team.
• Keep abreast of current developments in interior design and architecture, and related disciplines through active industry engagement.

• United States citizenship.
• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and eleven (11) years of related experience (Interior Designer V).
• Working knowledge of the full range of concepts, principles, and practices of interior design in relation to the planning, design, specification, renovation, and construction of facilities interiors.
• Working knowledge of the principles and practices of related engineering disciplines, including civil, structural, mechanical, and electrical, sufficient to interface effectively with other professionals during design and construction projects.
• Working knowledge of the commercial furniture industry and the issues associated with furniture and engineering systems coordination.
• Ability to interpret plans and specifications for a variety of large and complex building projects.
• Knowledge of Federal, Departmental, and Bureau contracting processes, procedures, and guidelines applicable to A/E contracting.
• Experience using AutoCAD, REVIT, BIM, Adobe Creative Suite.
• Developed oral and written communications skills to confer with and advise employees, contractors, and officials throughout the Department on assigned projects; articulate and defend recommendations and decisions; produce coherent reports, policy recommendations, guidelines, and instructions.

Mid‑Senior level

Full‑time