Interior Designer Opportunities at the VA: Transform Spaces for Veterans
Are you a design professional looking to pivot your career toward a mission that truly matters? The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is currently seeking a talented and dedicated Interior Designer to join our team in Nashville, Tennessee. This role is essential to our mission of providing high-quality, comfortable, and functional spaces for our nation’s Veterans.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will lead interior design and furniture programs for the Tennessee Valley Healthcare System. Your primary duties include:
- Developing architectural layouts and design specifications.
- Managing procurement and furniture installation for new and renovated spaces.
- Conducting on-site inspections and space feasibility studies.
- Utilizing modern design software like Autodesk Architectural Desktop and 3D modeling tools.
- Coordinating with engineers and project managers to ensure compliance with building codes and standards.
Requirements
To qualify for this GS-11 position, you must demonstrate technical proficiency and professional experience. Key requirements include:
- Specialized Experience: At least one year of experience equivalent to the GS-9 grade level in interior design.
- Driver's License: A current, valid state driver's license is required.
- Education: A relevant degree or NCIDQ certification may substitute for some experience.
- Vaccination: Participation in the seasonal influenza program is mandatory.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Nashville, TN |
| Salary Range | $74,678 - $97,087 |
| Grade Level | GS-11 |
| Employment Type | Temporary (4 Months) |
Salary Overview
The compensation for this position is competitive, ranging from $74,678 to $97,087 per year, depending on qualifications and performance history.
Benefits
Working for the VA offers more than just a paycheck. You will gain the emotional satisfaction of supporting Veterans. While temporary positions have specific constraints regarding benefits, employees working at least 130 hours per month for 90 days are generally eligible for health insurance coverage.
Application Tips
- Focus on Quality: Your resume must be two pages or less. Prioritize your most relevant experience.
- Be Specific: Detail your accomplishments using metrics. The agency will not guess your skill level.
- Use PDF: Always save your documents as PDFs to maintain formatting.
- Check Your Email: If you are invited to take the online competency assessment, you must complete it to move forward.
If you have the passion, compassion, and professional skills to serve our Veterans through innovative interior design, we encourage you to apply. Join the VA and contribute your talents to a mission that changes lives every day.
Why This Interior Designer Job Matters
Transform healing environments as an Interior Designer with the Veterans Health Administration. Make a lasting impact on the lives of those who served our country in this mission-driven role.
Interior Designer Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a skilled Interior Designer to join the Tennessee Valley Healthcare System in Nashville, TN. In this temporary capacity (4 months), you will play a pivotal role in planning, designing, and managing interior environments across VA facilities, including hospitals and community-based outpatient clinics. You will be responsible for creating functional, aesthetic, and compliant spaces that serve our nation's Veterans.
Requirements for Interior Designer
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Valid and current state driver's license (Selective Placement Factor).
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-9 grade level.
- Must be willing to live within a commutable distance of Nashville, TN.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Completion of a one-year probationary period.
- Must complete an online assessment and questionnaire.
- Selective Service registration for males born after December 31, 1959.
Preferred Qualifications for Interior Designer
- PhD or 3 full years of progressively higher-level graduate education in interior design or related fields.
- Passage of the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) examination.
- Ability to integrate mechanical, electrical, and structural engineering disciplines into design plans.
- Proficiency in 3D modeling software, Autodesk Architectural Desktop, and computer-aided design (CAD).
- Experience managing facility-wide furniture procurement and contractor relations.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Health insurance coverage (subject to eligibility requirements).
- ✓Supportive and inclusive work culture dedicated to Veterans.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development.
- ✓Work-life balance initiatives.
- ✓Generous paid time off.
💡 How to Apply Interior Designer Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Interior Designer Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is no longer than two pages and complies with all formatting requirements.
- Complete the required online assessment and questionnaire.
- Attach all necessary supporting documents, such as transcripts or veteran status verification.
- Submit your complete application package by the closing date of October 30, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume is concise, results-focused, and highlights competencies relevant to the position.
- Save your resume as a PDF to preserve formatting and page constraints.
- Double-check that your contact information is accurate and up-to-date.
- Monitor your email, including spam and junk folders, for important status updates and assessment links.
- Be specific in your resume—the agency will not make assumptions about your experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a permanent position?
No, this is a temporary appointment not to exceed 4 months, with a possibility of extension for up to one additional year.
Do I need to submit my driver's license with the application?
No. Do not upload your driver's license. You will be required to provide it only if you are selected for an interview.
What is the page limit for the resume?
As of September 27, 2025, federal agencies generally restrict resumes to a maximum of two pages.
Can I apply if I live in another state?
*A: You must live within or be willing to relocate within a commutable distance of Nashville to be eligible.*
Are there permanent growth opportunities?
*A: This is a temporary position. It does not confer non-competitive conversion rights to permanent employment.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to honoring those who have served. We believe in providing compassionate, whole-health care, and our facilities are the physical manifestation of this promise. As an Interior Designer with the VA, you aren't just selecting furniture or paint colors; you are creating environments that foster healing and respect for our Veterans.