Design Director — Residential Interior Design

Elite Remodels

This role is residential interior design only — kitchens, baths, and whole-home remodels. Commercial design experience alone will not be considered.

Elite Remodels is a fully integrated design-build firm in Santa Barbara. Design, materials, showroom, and construction all happen in-house — which means your residential designs actually get built, by our team, to your standard.

We're hiring a Design Director to lead our department, set the creative bar, and own the process from first concept to construction-ready delivery. If you're a highly creative, structured residential designer who's ready to lead — not just execute — we want to hear from you.

What makes this different

Your designs are built by our own construction team — no handoff chaos

Real leadership authority, not just a senior title

25+ years of established reputation in Santa Barbara and the Santa Ynez Valley

Clear systems, defined processes, and genuine accountability at every level

Direct access to ownership and the ability to shape the department

Key responsibilities

Lead and mentor the residential design team

Own the design process from concept through construction-ready delivery

Produce complete, fully finished design packages before construction begins

Maintain quality control across 8–9 active projects

Coordinate directly with construction and estimating

Strengthen and enforce design systems and processes

Report directly to the owner with clear updates

You bring

6+ years of residential interior design experience — remodeling specifically (required)

A portfolio of completed residential remodel projects — kitchens, bathrooms, or whole-home renovations (required). Commercial portfolios will not be reviewed.

Proficiency in Chief Architect, 2020, or AutoCAD

A leadership mindset with strong follow-through and execution

Ability to run client presentations with confidence and clarity

Bachelor's or Associate's degree in Interior Design or related field — or equivalent experience

Compensation & benefits

Starting at $138,000+ per year

401(k)

Relocation assistance available

In-person | Santa Barbara, CA 93105

How to apply

Submit your portfolio of completed residential remodel projects (required — commercial portfolios will not be reviewed), your software proficiency list, and a brief note on why this role is the right next step for you.

A short video introduction under one minute is welcome but not required.

Pay: From $138,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k)
Relocation assistance

Application Question(s):

What are your 3-year professional goals?
Why are you a strong fit for this leadership role &

What unique value do you bring?

Include your software proficiency list and a brief note on why this is the right next step for you. A short video introduction under one minute is welcome but not required.
Send your portfolio of completed residential remodel projects — kitchens, bathrooms, or whole-home renovations (required). Commercial portfolios will not be reviewed.

Education:

High school or equivalent (Preferred)

Experience:

Residential Design: 6 years (Required)

Work Location: In person

Elite Remodels

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