Sign up as a Tutor with NCIDQ Tutoring by Design Success Network


DSN is seeking qualified professionals who want to elevate the profession through helping others obtain their certifications. We are currently seeking NCIDQ certified tutors, but are interested in expanding to other exams (LEED, WELL, EDAC, CHID, etc) in the future.

This is the only "side hustle" for interior designers that 1) supports the industry and the people in it, 2) pays you what you're worth, and 3) gives you full control of your schedule. You can choose to tutor only one topic once a month, or cover more topics for a few hours a week - it's completely up to you! No minimum commitment required.

Tutoring with DSN is a way for interior designers to make an impact through mentorship, while also getting paid. Whether you're practicing design in a firm, teaching at a university, a sales representative, or a stay at home parent - this is for you!

How It Works

  1. Approved tutors will fill out their online profile and availability on our TutorCruncher site. You can select which specific exam topics you are comfortable teaching.
  2. Students will browse all approved tutors and schedule a session. Students will email their specific questions directly to you after booking.
  3. Tutors will review their questions and prepare for the tutoring session, however you see fit. DSN provides resources to help you prepare, and you can use your own.
  4. Tutors will meet with the student virtually on the TutorCruncher site at the scheduled time to provide tutoring services via a video call.
  5. Tutors submit a "Lesson Report" immediately after the tutoring session is completed.
  6. Payment is collected from students after the lesson is complete. Tutors get paid and students gets one step closer to certification!

Tutor Responsibilities

  • Prepare for tutoring sessions in advance using your own resources and DSN's Tutor Resources Google Drive folder. (Admin is also here to help!)
  • Arrive to the tutoring session on time, prepared, and will a positive can-do attitude!
  • Create a professional and welcoming environment by modeling respect for all persons.
  • Help students gain confidence in NCIDQ exam content and question formatting.
  • Utilize student and supervisor feedback to grow professionally!
  • Optional: Participate in our free online professional development community.
  • This is a paid 1099 / independent contractor position.

Your Qualifications

  • NCIDQ Certificate Holder in good standing (required at all times).
  • Reliable internet service, computer, webcam, and microphone (required).
  • Fluent English language speaker (required). Bilingual is a plus!
  • Legally authorized to work in the United States (required).
  • Strong knowledge of 2018 IBC and topics covered by the NCIDQ exam.
  • Strong communication abilities - verbal, written, and visual.
  • Teaching experience is not required but always a plus!
    ALL applicants will be considered for employment regardless of race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, health/disability status, or test scores!

Your Benefits

  • Flexible schedule - You have complete control to set your own availability. There is no minimum requirement and you can work where ever, whenever, and how ever much you want. No approval needed.
  • Get paid what you deserve - Choose your own hourly rate and DSN adds 10% to that as our commission. Students see and pay your rate +10%. You are not paid for session preparation time, so consider that when you set your rate. You will get faster at preparing and some topics you probably know so well they don't require as much preparation.
  • Professional development - You will solidify your knowledge through tutoring and also grow through supervisor feedback on your sessions. There are opportunities to grow with us and contribute to future marketing, content creation, leadership roles, and more.
  • And above all - You will make a meaningful difference and have an individual impact on the interior design industry!

The Interview Process
We are transparent communicators and know that interviewing can be stressful. Because of this, we want you to know exactly what you can expect from us! We will respond to your application materials within 10 business days (the email will come from this TutorCruncher system). The interview will be a Zoom call to chat about your experience and more about DSN. You will then receive a decision within 5 business days of the second interview.