Studio Manager and Operations Coordinator

Studio Manager & Operations Coordinator

Part-Time (20-25 hrs/week to start) | In Studio 2-3 Days | Bucktown-Chicago, IL

Studio MAK is a high-end, boutique interior design studio known for creating refined, soulful interiors for clients who expect excellence. As our three designers continue to grow and lead their own projects, we’re looking for a highly organized, proactive, and detail-obsessed Office Manager & Operations Coordinator to join our team.

This role is the backbone of our operations—supporting projects behind the scenes, organizing internal systems, keeping our studio space running smoothly, and ensuring our creative team stays on track.

This Role is Right For You If You..

• Are you a behind-the-scenes powerhouse who gets satisfaction from bringing order? 
• Thrive in support roles where your system-thinking, checklist, and communication keep everything
• Don’t want to be the face of the design, but you love making sure the details are right, the process is clear, and the team knows why they need to shine
• Can work independently and take initiative, but value in-person collaboration
• Think in timelines and spreadsheets, but can adapt to the creative flow of a fast-moving team
• Take pride in polished, accurate execution and clear communication
• Enjoy juggling studio organization, team coordination, and logistics

What You’ll Do:

As a Part-Time Studio Manager & Process Coordinator, you’ll work closely with our three lead designers to support the smooth, behind-the-scenes operation of the studio. From managing vendor coordination and maintaining studio organization to keeping timelines and internal processes on track, you’ll bring structure, clarity, and follow-through to every corner of the business.

Key responsibilities include:

• Maintain studio organization and office readiness by managing the physical environment—tidy workspace, materials library, printed assets, vendor documentation, and supply inventory
• Coordinate internal workflows and meetings—manage calendars, track action items, follow up on assignments, and help lead weekly check-ins to keep projects on schedule
• Support operational systems by documenting and refining studio SOPs, identifying inefficiencies, and suggesting process improvements
• Perform data entry and data tracking—input finalized materials, product details, and pricing into spreadsheets, trackers, or procurement platforms with accuracy
• Assemble client deliverables using Canva and project templates—format spec books, care guides, and closeout packets (designers provide content)
• Track budgets and procurement logistics—monitor budget-to-actuals, manage product quotes and orders, and update delivery statuses in Google Sheets or Excel
• Handle basic vendor communication—request quotes, samples, lead times, order confirmations, and resolve delivery issues as needed
• Send templated client communications—deliver logistics updates, project timelines, and confirmations via email, based on input from the design team
• Manage invoice processing—generate and send client invoices using QuickBooks, track payments, and relay updates to the bookkeeper
• Prepare for meetings and installations—print and organize materials, ensure the studio is presentable, and assist with coordination for walkthroughs or install days

Skills & Qualifications:

• MUST possess a Bachelor's Degree
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in operations, admin, or coordination roles (interior design, boutique businesses, or real estate administrative/account management preferred)
• Strong skills in Google Suite (Sheets, Docs, Slides, Gmail)
• Comfortable in QuickBooks: sending invoices, logging payments
• Canva proficiency for assembling clean, client-facing documents (design experience not required)
• Very comfortable with spreadsheets: formulas, formatting, and tracking tools
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Extremely organized, proactive, calm, and thoughtful
• Able to work independently and stay self-motivated
• Loves being part of a small, collaborative, high-performing team
• Able to lift up to 50 lbs and assist with vendor pickups or light install support when needed

The Details

• Hours: 20-25 hours per week guaranteed with potential to grow into a full-time role
• Schedule: Requires 2-3 in-studio days per week in our Chicago location
• Compensation: $26.50/hour
• Access to trade furnishings and materials
• Opportunities to attend industry events and design trade shows
• Direct exposure to high-end residential and commercial design
• Growth potential within a team that values excellence and initiative
• Travel opportunities as projects expand
• Referral bonus program

Our Values 

At Studio MAK, these six values are not just words—they’re the foundation of how we operate, collaborate, and grow. We live them in our daily work and look for every team member to genuinely embody them:

• Integrity — We follow through, own our actions, and do the right thing—especially when no one’s watching.
• Professionalism — We show up prepared, polished, and respectful in every interaction.
• Passion — We love what we do and bring enthusiasm and care to every detail.
• Attention to Detail — We believe excellence lives in the small things—nothing is overlooked.
• Commitment — We’re all in—for our clients, our projects, and one another.
• No Drama — We prioritize solutions over stress and maintain a calm, collaborative environment.

To Apply

• Send your resume and a brief note explaining why this role is a fit for your skill set to team@studiomak.co. Bonus if you share a sample spreadsheet or workflow you’re proud of.