DESIGN ASSISTANT / APPRENTICE

motley

DESIGN ASSISTANT / APPRENTICE

Motley | Los Angeles Arts District

Motley is seeking a curious, ambitious, and design-obsessed individual to join our team in the Los Angeles Arts District.

For over 15 years, Motley has specialized in exceptional vintage modern furniture, lighting, art, and interiors. Our inventory includes works by many of the most important designers of the 20th century, and our clients include collectors, architects, interior designers, film productions, and design enthusiasts from around the world.

This is not a typical retail position. It is an opportunity to work directly with rare and historically significant furniture while learning the business of design, sourcing, restoration, sales, marketing, and collection building.

You will work closely with the owner on a wide variety of projects, including:

  • Researching important designers, manufacturers, and furniture histories

  • Photographing and cataloging inventory

  • Creating listings and marketing materials

  • Assisting clients, collectors, architects, and interior designers

  • Helping source and acquire new inventory

  • Participating in furniture restoration and preparation

  • Coordinating deliveries, installations, and special projects

  • Contributing to the visual presentation of the showroom

Ideal candidates are:

  • Passionate about architecture, interiors, industrial design, art, or furniture

  • Naturally curious and eager to learn

  • Organized, detail-oriented, and self-motivated

  • Comfortable working independently and solving problems

  • Strong communicators with excellent writing skills

  • Familiar with photography, design software, or social media (a plus)

  • Comfortable occasionally lifting and moving furniture

This position is ideal for someone interested in architecture, interior design, industrial design, gallery work, furniture design, preservation, or entrepreneurship.

The right candidate will gain exposure to every aspect of a respected design business—from sourcing and restoration to sales, marketing, and client relationships.

To apply, please send a resume, portfolio (if applicable), and a brief note describing your interest in design and why this opportunity appeals to you.

Responsibilities

Inventory & Research

  • Research designers, manufacturers, and furniture histories

  • Catalog and maintain inventory records

  • Measure, describe, and document incoming pieces

  • Track acquisitions and inventory movement

Photography & Marketing

  • Photograph furniture, lighting, and decorative objects

  • Prepare and publish online listings

  • Assist with social media content and marketing initiatives

  • Maintain visual consistency across digital platforms

Sales & Client Relations

  • Assist clients in the showroom and online

  • Respond to inquiries regarding inventory and projects

  • Develop relationships with collectors, designers, and architects

  • Support sales and follow-up communications

Operations & Logistics

  • Coordinate deliveries, pickups, and installations

  • Assist with showroom organization and presentation

  • Prepare inventory for transport and display

  • Help manage day-to-day operational needs

Sourcing & Special Projects

  • Assist with sourcing and acquisition opportunities

  • Evaluate potential inventory purchases

  • Support restoration and preparation of vintage pieces

  • Participate in design, installation, and special client projects

Professional Development

  • Learn the vintage furniture market and design history

  • Gain exposure to sourcing, restoration, sales, and entrepreneurship

  • Work directly with ownership on strategic projects

  • Contribute ideas that support the growth of the business

Requirements

Design Interest

  • Demonstrated interest in architecture, interior design, industrial design, art, furniture, or related fields

  • Curiosity about design history and the stories behind objects

  • Appreciation for craftsmanship, materials, and quality

Professional Skills

  • Strong written and verbal communication skills

  • Excellent organizational and time-management abilities

  • High attention to detail and accuracy

  • Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously

Work Style

  • Self-motivated and capable of working independently

  • Positive attitude and willingness to learn

  • Resourceful problem solver

  • Comfortable taking initiative and ownership of projects

Technical Skills

  • Proficiency with common computer applications and web-based tools

  • Ability to learn inventory, sales, and content management systems

  • Photography, graphic design, or social media experience is a plus

  • Experience with Adobe Creative Suite, Canva, or similar tools is a plus

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to lift and move furniture and design objects when needed

  • Comfortable working in a warehouse and showroom environment

  • Valid driver’s license is preferred

Preferred Qualifications

  • Degree or coursework in architecture, design, art history, business, marketing, or a related field

  • Experience in furniture, interiors, galleries, design studios, retail, or hospitality

  • Interest in entrepreneurship and small business operations

  • Passion for vintage modern furniture and design history

How to Apply

please email resume to josh@motley.la

Contact
Posted on June 10