Alternative Delivery Design Manager - West Region

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Alternative Delivery Design Manager - West Region

Company: Dewberry

Location: Utah, United States (with potential for hybrid or remote work)

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Project Management / Engineering Operations

Date Posted: May 13, 2026

Experience Level: 15+ years (with 10+ years in Design Management)

Remote Status: Hybrid/Remote Eligible

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage the design aspects of complex alternative delivery transportation projects across the West region, ensuring adherence to scope, budget, and schedule.

• Drive business development initiatives by cultivating strong relationships with design-build contractors, teaming partners, and key transportation agencies like WashDOT.

• Oversee and mentor support staff, fostering a high-performance team environment focused on efficient and high-quality document production.

• Play a pivotal role in the strategic growth of Dewberry's transportation practice, potentially leading to the establishment and management of new regional offices.

• Serve as a primary liaison with clients, ensuring project success and client satisfaction through effective communication and management.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Design Manager," the responsibilities and required experience strongly indicate a senior project management role with a focus on the technical design delivery within alternative delivery frameworks. The role also encompasses significant business development and team leadership, suggesting it's a strategic GTM (Go-To-Market) operations function within the engineering and construction sector. The mention of building and leading a new office points to significant growth and leadership potential.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Direct and oversee all phases of alternative delivery transportation projects, from initial concept and scope definition through final design and closeout, with a strong emphasis on budget control and schedule adherence.

• Manage and guide project teams, including engineers, designers, and support staff, ensuring optimal performance and efficient workflow for document production and technical deliverables.

• Cultivate and maintain robust client relationships with design-build entities, joint venture partners, and public sector transportation agencies (e.g., WashDOT, Municipal/County clients) to foster repeat business and strategic alliances.

• Actively participate in business development activities, including identifying new project opportunities, contributing to proposal preparation, negotiating teaming arrangements, and managing client expectations throughout the pursuit phase.

• Serve as a key interface between Dewberry, project stakeholders, and clients, facilitating clear communication, resolving issues, and ensuring alignment with project objectives and contractual requirements.

• Provide technical leadership and expertise in alternative delivery methods, such as Design-Build, ensuring compliance with project specifications and industry best practices.

• Contribute to the strategic planning and growth of Dewberry's transportation practice in the West region, identifying market trends and opportunities for service expansion.

• Potentially lead the establishment and operational management of new Dewberry offices, including team building, resource allocation, and P&L oversight.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical project management, client-facing business development, and strategic leadership. The emphasis on "alternative delivery" and "design-build" points to a need for expertise in non-traditional project delivery models, which require a different operational approach than standard design-bid-build. The potential to build a new office signifies a high level of autonomy and P&L responsibility.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Civil Engineering or Transportation Engineering.

• Professional Engineer (PE) license in Washington or California is required.

Experience:

• A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in the transportation infrastructure sector.

• A minimum of 10 years of dedicated experience specifically as a Design Manager for alternative delivery and Design-Build projects.

• Demonstrated experience in managing project scope, budgets, and schedules for complex infrastructure projects.

• Proven track record in developing and maintaining strong client relationships within the transportation and design-build industries.

• Experience in business development, proposal preparation, and strategic teaming arrangements.

Required Skills:

• Alternative Delivery & Design-Build Expertise: Deep understanding of alternative delivery methodologies and their application in transportation infrastructure projects.

• Project Management: Proven ability to manage all project lifecycle phases, including scope, budget, schedule, quality, and risk.

• Client Relationship Management: Exceptional skills in building, nurturing, and maintaining long-term client relationships with public agencies and private developers/contractors.

• Business Development: Demonstrated success in identifying opportunities, contributing to winning proposals, and securing new projects.

• Leadership & Team Management: Strong ability to lead, mentor, and manage diverse project teams, fostering collaboration and high performance.

• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication abilities, with a capacity to articulate complex technical concepts to various stakeholders.

• Technical Proficiency: Solid understanding of civil and transportation engineering principles and design processes.

• Contractual Knowledge: Familiarity with design-build teaming and professional services agreements.

Preferred Skills:

• Structural Engineering Acumen: SE license and experience in structural design considerations for transportation projects.

• WashDOT/Municipal Experience: In-depth knowledge of working with specific state Departments of Transportation or major municipal/county engineering departments.

• Office Management/P&L Experience: Experience in establishing or managing the operational and financial aspects of a business unit or office.

• Public Speaking/Presentation Skills: Ability to present project proposals and technical information effectively to large groups and key decision-makers.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize a blend of technical engineering expertise, robust project management capabilities, and strong business acumen. The specific PE licenses required (WA/CA) and the preference for an SE license highlight the technical depth needed. The "10+ years as a Design Manager delivering alternative delivery and design-build projects" is a critical differentiator, indicating a need for specialized experience beyond general project management.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Delivery Case Studies: Detailed examples showcasing successful management of alternative delivery projects, specifically highlighting how scope, budget, and schedule were controlled.

• Client Relationship Management Examples: Documentation or descriptions of how key client relationships were developed and maintained, leading to repeat business or successful pursuits.

• Business Development Contributions: Evidence of involvement in successful proposal efforts, including contributions to strategy, technical solutions, and teaming arrangements.

• Team Leadership & Mentorship: Examples of how teams were structured, managed, and motivated to achieve project goals, including any mentorship or staff development initiatives.

• Process Optimization Examples: If applicable, examples of where process improvements were implemented within project delivery to enhance efficiency or quality.

Process Documentation:

• Project Management Frameworks: Familiarity with established project management methodologies (e.g., PMI, Agile principles as applied to design) and how they are adapted for alternative delivery projects.

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Ability to document and optimize design workflows for efficiency, ensuring seamless collaboration between different engineering disciplines and project phases.

• Risk Management Processes: Experience in identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks inherent in alternative delivery projects, including contractual and technical risks.

• Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC): Understanding of robust QA/QC processes for design deliverables within alternative delivery contexts.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role like this, a portfolio is crucial to demonstrate practical application of skills. Candidates should be prepared to showcase not just project outcomes but also the processes and strategic thinking behind them. The emphasis on "process optimization" and "workflow design" aligns with GTM operations principles of efficiency and effectiveness.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• California (CA): $167,195 - $238,850 annually

• Colorado (CO): $163,818 - $234,025 annually

• Washington (WA): $165,218 - $236,025 annually

Explanation for Estimates:

The provided salary ranges are based on the raw job data and reflect the specified locations and experience level. These figures represent Dewberry's projected compensation for this role in those states, taking into account the seniority and specialized nature of managing alternative delivery projects. The range accounts for variations in candidate experience, specific skills, and prevailing market conditions for senior engineering and project management roles in these high-cost-of-living areas. For locations not explicitly listed but covered by pay transparency laws, Dewberry commits to providing specific information upon interview.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health & Wellness: Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance.

• Life & Disability Protection: Supplemental Life Insurance, Employee Life Insurance, Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance, Business Travel and Accident Insurance, Short-Term Disability, and Long-Term Disability.

• Retirement & Savings: 401(k) Profit Sharing Plan, 529 College Savings Plans.

• Professional Development: Tuition Reimbursement, Travel Assistance.

• Financial Flexibility: Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs).

• Performance Incentives: Annual Bonus and Stipend (for officer program positions, varies by level and company performance).

• Value-Added Programs: Discounted Purchase Programs.

Working Hours:

• Typically 40 hours per week, as is standard for full-time professional roles.

• The "hybrid or remote work" option suggests flexibility in how and where these hours are fulfilled, depending on project needs and team collaboration requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary ranges provided are substantial, reflecting the senior-level, specialized nature of this role, particularly within the engineering and construction industry. The extensive benefits package is typical for a firm of Dewberry's size and stature, offering strong support for employees and their families. The inclusion of "Annual Bonus and Stipend" for officer program positions suggests a performance-driven compensation structure for leadership roles.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Professional Services, Engineering, Architecture, Construction, and Consulting, with a strong specialization in Transportation Infrastructure. Dewberry operates at the intersection of design, engineering, and project delivery, serving both public and private sector clients.

Company Size: Over 2,500 employees across more than 60 locations nationwide. This indicates a large, established firm with significant resources and a broad market reach.

Founded: Over a half-century ago (exact founding date not specified, but implies a long-standing history and stability).

Team Structure:

• Operations Focus: The role sits within Dewberry's transportation practice, likely part of a larger regional or national operations team. The specific team structure will involve collaboration with other design managers, project managers, engineers, and business development professionals across various Dewberry offices.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: This role necessitates close collaboration with business development, marketing, legal (for contracts), finance, and other engineering disciplines (e.g., structural, geotechnical, environmental) to deliver complex alternative delivery projects.

• Reporting: The role reports to senior leadership within the West region's transportation practice, with potential for the manager to build and lead their own team, including establishing a physical office presence.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Operations at Dewberry likely emphasize data analysis for project performance, financial tracking, and business development strategy.

• Process Optimization: A focus on streamlining design and project delivery processes to enhance efficiency, quality, and client satisfaction, particularly within the context of alternative delivery methods.

• Client-Centric Approach: A strong emphasis on understanding and meeting client needs, fostering long-term partnerships through reliable service delivery and proactive engagement.

Company Website: www.dewberry.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Dewberry's size and history suggest a stable work environment with established processes, but also the agility to pursue new delivery models like alternative delivery. The emphasis on "Dewberry at Work" and "people" suggests a culture that values its employees and their contributions. The significant presence across the US indicates opportunities for diverse project exposure.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior Project Management / Senior Design Management. This role is positioned at a high level, requiring extensive experience and the ability to manage complex, high-value projects. It's a leadership role with significant responsibility for project outcomes and client relationships.

Reporting Structure:

The role reports to senior leadership within Dewberry's West region transportation practice. As the role evolves, especially with the potential to build out a new office or team, the manager will likely have direct reports, including project managers, design leads, and support staff. This offers a clear path for leadership development and team building.

Operations Impact:

This role has a direct impact on Dewberry's revenue and profitability through the successful execution of alternative delivery projects and the acquisition of new business. The ability to manage projects efficiently, maintain strong client relationships, and contribute to business development directly influences the firm's financial performance and market reputation in the transportation sector. The potential to establish and lead a new office signifies a significant strategic impact on regional growth.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Expansion: Fast-tracked promotional opportunities to build and lead a dedicated project design and delivery team, potentially establishing and managing a new Dewberry office in the Pacific Northwest.

• Strategic Business Development: Increased responsibility in shaping Dewberry's business development strategy for alternative delivery projects in the West region.

• Technical Specialization: Deeper involvement in complex transportation infrastructure challenges and advanced design methodologies.

• Mentorship & Talent Development: Opportunity to mentor junior engineers and project managers, contributing to the development of future leaders within the firm.

• Executive Leadership: Potential progression into executive management roles, overseeing larger business units or regional operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "fast-tracked promotional opportunity" is a significant highlight, indicating that Dewberry is looking for a candidate who can not only manage but also grow a business unit. This suggests a role with high visibility and potential for rapid career advancement for the right individual. The impact on revenue and GTM strategy is substantial.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The position offers flexibility with options for hybrid or remote work. This suggests a modern work environment that balances the need for in-person collaboration with the benefits of remote flexibility. If a new Seattle office is established, it would likely be a professional, collaborative workspace designed to support engineering and project management functions.

Office Location(s): Primarily focused on the West region, with specific mention of supporting projects in Washington and potentially building a new office in/near Seattle. The base location is listed as Utah, suggesting a presence in that state, but the role's scope extends significantly across the Pacific Northwest and California.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: If a physical office is involved, it will likely feature collaborative spaces, meeting rooms equipped for client presentations, and access to necessary engineering software and hardware.

• Technology-Enabled: As a hybrid/remote role, robust IT infrastructure, cloud-based collaboration tools, and secure remote access will be essential.

• Client Engagement Focus: The workspace will need to support client meetings, presentations, and relationship-building activities, whether in person or virtually.

Work Schedule:

• Standard 40-hour work week is typical for full-time roles.

• The hybrid/remote arrangement implies flexibility in structuring the work week to balance project demands, team collaboration, and personal needs. Occasional travel for client meetings, site visits, or team gatherings may be required.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid/remote flexibility is a key differentiator and appeals to modern professionals. The potential to build a new office suggests an entrepreneurial aspect to the role, where the chosen candidate can influence the physical workspace and team environment.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Initial Screening: HR or Talent Acquisition will likely conduct an initial review of applications and conduct a brief screening call to assess basic qualifications, interest, and cultural fit.

2. Hiring Manager Interview: A more in-depth interview with the hiring manager (likely a senior leader in the transportation practice) to discuss experience, technical skills, project management approach, and alignment with the role's strategic objectives.

3. Technical/Team Interview: Interviews with key team members, peers, or potential direct reports. This stage often involves discussing specific project challenges, technical problem-solving, and assessing collaborative abilities.

4. Portfolio Review & Case Study: A dedicated session where candidates present their portfolio, focusing on key alternative delivery projects. This may involve a prepared case study demonstrating how they managed a complex project, overcame challenges, and achieved measurable results.

5. Senior Leadership Interview: A final interview with very senior leadership (e.g., VP, Regional Director) to discuss strategic vision, business development capabilities, and long-term commitment to Dewberry's growth.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Impact: Showcase projects where your management directly led to quantifiable success (e.g., cost savings, schedule acceleration, client satisfaction metrics, successful contract negotiation).

• Highlight Alternative Delivery Specifics: Detail your role in managing the unique aspects of Design-Build or other alternative delivery projects, such as risk allocation, interface management, and value engineering.

• Structure Your Presentation: Organize your portfolio around key projects, using a STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method for each, and be prepared to elaborate on your specific contributions.

• Demonstrate Client & BD Skills: Include examples of how you've developed client relationships, won new business, and managed complex stakeholder environments.

• Be Ready for "Build" Scenarios: Given the potential to build a new office, be prepared to discuss your approach to team building, operational setup, and strategic market entry.

Challenge Preparation:

• Strategic Problem-Solving: Be ready to discuss hypothetical scenarios related to managing challenging projects, difficult clients, or market entry strategies for new service lines.

• Business Acumen: Prepare to discuss your understanding of the transportation infrastructure market, competitive landscape, and how Dewberry can best position itself for success in alternative delivery.

• Leadership Scenarios: Anticipate questions about how you would motivate a team, resolve conflicts, and foster a culture of high performance and innovation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is likely multi-stage and rigorous, reflecting the seniority and strategic importance of this role. A strong portfolio showcasing specific experience in alternative delivery and a clear vision for growth will be critical. The potential to build a new office means candidates should be prepared to discuss leadership, operational setup, and market strategy.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency with industry-standard project management platforms (e.g., Primavera P6, Microsoft Project, Procore) for scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking.

• Design Software Suites: Familiarity with the output and integration of major CAD and BIM software (e.g., AutoCAD, Civil 3D, Bentley products) used in transportation design. While not necessarily a user, understanding their application and output is key.

• Collaboration Platforms: Experience with tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, Zoom, or similar for virtual communication, file sharing, and team coordination.

• Document Management Systems: Familiarity with systems for organizing and controlling project documentation (e.g., SharePoint, ProjectWise, specific client-provided systems).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Financial Management Tools: Experience with ERP or financial software for budget tracking, invoicing, and cost control.

• Performance Dashboards: Ability to interpret and utilize data from dashboards that track project KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) related to schedule, budget, safety, and quality.

• Data Analysis Tools: Basic understanding of how data is collected and analyzed for project performance reporting and business development insights.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Software: Experience with CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics) for managing client relationships, tracking business development activities, and sales pipeline management.

• Document Automation (Desirable): Familiarity with tools or processes that can automate repetitive tasks in proposal generation or contract management.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this role is management-focused, a strong understanding of the technology stack used in transportation design and project delivery is essential. The ability to leverage project management and CRM tools effectively is critical for operational success and business development.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity: Upholding high ethical standards in all dealings, from client interactions to team management.

• Excellence: A commitment to delivering high-quality design and project management services that exceed client expectations.

• Collaboration: Fostering a team-oriented environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and cross-functional cooperation is encouraged.

• Innovation: Embracing new technologies and delivery methods (like alternative delivery) to find more efficient and effective solutions.

• Client Focus: Placing the client's needs and project success at the forefront of all operational decisions and actions.

• Accountability: Taking ownership of project outcomes, team performance, and business development targets.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive & Communicative: Encouraging open dialogue, regular updates, and transparent communication across all project stakeholders and internal teams.

• Solution-Oriented: Focusing on collaborative problem-solving, bringing together diverse expertise to overcome challenges in project delivery and business development.

• Mentorship & Development: A culture that supports the growth of its team members, fostering knowledge sharing and skill development, particularly in specialized areas like alternative delivery.

• Cross-Functional Integration: Seamless integration with business development, marketing, and other engineering disciplines to ensure unified project pursuits and delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "Dewberry at Work" suggests a defined set of cultural attributes that guide employee behavior and decision-making. Candidates should align with these values, particularly regarding client focus, collaboration, and a commitment to excellence in technical delivery.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Market Competition: The transportation infrastructure sector, especially in the West region, is highly competitive for alternative delivery projects. Successfully securing and delivering these projects requires a strong strategic approach and execution.

• Managing Complex Stakeholders: Alternative delivery projects often involve multiple stakeholders with potentially competing interests (client, contractor, designers, public). Effectively managing these relationships is crucial.

• Building a New Operation: If the opportunity to establish a new office materializes, the challenge of recruitment, infrastructure setup, operational processes, and market penetration from the ground up will be significant.

• Adapting to Evolving Technologies: Keeping pace with advancements in design software, BIM, and project management technologies is essential for maintaining a competitive edge.

• Balancing Remote/Hybrid Work: Ensuring effective team cohesion, communication, and productivity while managing a distributed or hybrid workforce.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Leadership Development: Direct experience in building and leading a new business unit or office, offering unparalleled leadership growth.

• Strategic Business Acumen: Deepening understanding of market dynamics, competitive strategy, and P&L management within the professional services sector.

• Alternative Delivery Specialization: Becoming a recognized expert in advanced project delivery methods within a leading firm.

• Industry Engagement: Opportunities to represent Dewberry at industry conferences, client events, and potentially through professional organizations.

• Mentorship Pathways: Access to senior leadership for mentorship and guidance on career progression within Dewberry.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges, particularly the potential to build a new office, but these are directly tied to substantial growth opportunities. Candidates must be adaptable, strategic, and possess strong leadership potential to thrive.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to managing the design phase of a Design-Build transportation project. How do you ensure alignment between the contractor's goals and the owner's requirements?"

• "How would you go about building a new Dewberry office in the Pacific Northwest to support our transportation practice? What would be your key priorities in the first 6-12 months?"

• "Walk us through a time you successfully developed a key client relationship that led to significant new business. What were the critical steps you took?"

• "Imagine a scenario where a major design conflict arises between your team and the design-build contractor late in the project. How would you resolve it?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Based on your understanding of Dewberry, how do you see yourself contributing to our 'Dewberry at Work' values?"

• "What are your expectations regarding team structure and collaboration in a hybrid or remote work environment?"

• "How do you approach performance management and staff development for your project teams?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select High-Impact Projects: Choose 2-3 alternative delivery projects that best demonstrate your management capabilities, client relationship skills, and business development contributions.

• Quantify Achievements: For each project, clearly articulate the scope, your role, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented, and the quantifiable results (e.g., budget savings realized, schedule milestones met ahead of time, client satisfaction scores).

• Focus on "Alternative Delivery" Nuances: Highlight how you navigated the unique complexities and opportunities presented by Design-Build or other alternative delivery models.

• Emphasize Leadership: Clearly delineate your leadership actions and their impact on team performance and project success.

• Prepare for "Build" Discussion: If the office-building aspect is a key focus, have a concise, actionable plan ready to discuss your vision for establishing and growing a new team and operational presence.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to articulate not just their past successes but also their strategic thinking regarding business growth and team leadership. The potential to build a new office makes strategic vision and execution planning a critical interview component.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the Dewberry careers portal at careers-dewberry.icims.com.

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to prominently feature keywords and achievements related to "Alternative Delivery," "Design-Build," "Project Management," "Client Relationship Management," "Business Development," and "Transportation Infrastructure." Quantify your accomplishments wherever possible.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a selection of 2-3 key alternative delivery projects. Be ready to present a concise overview of each, focusing on your role, challenges, solutions, and quantifiable results. If possible, include examples demonstrating your approach to business development and team leadership.

• Research Dewberry: Understand their core values ("Dewberry at Work"), recent projects (especially in the West region's transportation sector), and their strategic focus on alternative delivery methods.

• Practice Your Narrative: Rehearse your answers to common interview questions, particularly those related to your experience in managing complex projects, developing client relationships, and your vision for growth and leadership. Be prepared to discuss your approach to building a new team or office if this opportunity arises.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.