Architect Senior – Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Architect Senior – Design Manager

Company: Arizona State University

Location: Tempe, Arizona, United States

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Architecture & Design Operations

Date Posted: May 18, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the design and development phases of capital construction and renovation projects, ensuring alignment with university standards and strategic objectives.

• Provide technical oversight and manage the creation of comprehensive construction documents, specifications, and details.

• Coordinate and manage project execution in strict adherence to Arizona Board of Regents policies and institutional guidelines.

• Serve as a key liaison, advising external consultants and internal stakeholders on architectural principles, campus planning, and institutional goals.

• Drive project success through effective budget management, schedule adherence, and meticulous review of consultant work.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is classified under "Architecture & Design Operations" due to its focus on managing the operational aspects of architectural projects within an institutional setting. The responsibilities emphasize process management, stakeholder coordination, and ensuring adherence to established standards, which are core to operations roles.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Manage the programming, design, and production phases of capital construction and renovation projects, including soliciting and documenting client input.

• Develop and meticulously manage project scope, budget, and schedule from the initial Project Definition through the Design phases.

• Provide technical oversight and ensure the quality of construction documents, details, and specifications prepared by consultants.

• Coordinate and manage projects in strict accordance with Arizona Board of Regents policies and university guidelines.

• Review the work of consulting architects and construction managers to ensure compliance with university guidelines and contractual requirements.

• Advise external consultants on space planning guidelines, architectural standards, campus planning initiatives, and institutional goals.

• Collaborate with a diverse range of stakeholders, including landscape architects, historic preservation coordinators, and environmental graphics staff, to align project scopes.

• Potentially supervise subordinate staff members as part of a project team and perform other assigned tasks.

• Critically analyze and present relevant data and information to support project decision-making.

• Actively participate in and encourage support for the institution's sustainability programs.

• Adapt to changing priorities and resolve conflicts effectively in a dynamic project environment.

• Utilize work order systems (e.g., TMA) for managing maintenance requests and project-related tasks.

• Communicate clearly and effectively to ensure successful execution of all essential functions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities highlight a blend of strategic design management and operational project execution. Emphasis on "managing scope, budget, and schedule" and "technical oversight of construction documents" points to a role that requires structured operational discipline, similar to project management within a GTM or RevOps context.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture or a related field.

Experience:

• Minimum of five (5) years of experience appropriate to the area of assignment, with a strong preference for eight (8) years of architectural design experience.

• Experience in interior tenant improvements, renovations, and additions (e.g., laboratory, office/classroom).

• Experience in Construction Administration and Field Observations.

• Experience in managing multiple projects and coordinating design teams to ensure program statement compliance.

• Experience with various project delivery methods, including Job Order Contract (JOC), Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR), and Design Build (DB).

Required Skills:

• Proficient in architectural design principles, practices, and techniques.

• Strong understanding and application of federal and state building and accessibility code requirements, including Life Safety and International Building Codes.

• Ability to develop test fits and perform comprehensive space planning.

• Expertise in developing construction documents, details, and specifications.

• Skill in conducting, interpreting, and preparing building condition assessments.

• Proficiency in preparing budgets during the conceptual design phase.

• Ability to manage multiple projects concurrently and coordinate design teams effectively.

• Excellent critical thinking and data presentation skills.

• Demonstrated ability to adapt to changing priorities and resolve conflicts.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

• Proficiency in Autodesk AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, and Bluebeam Revue.

• Familiarity with Project Management Information Software (PMIS).

• Knowledge of Means Cost Estimating, Uni-Format, or other industry construction cost guides.

• Understanding of building systems, materials, and construction methods.

• Knowledge of structural, mechanical, and electrical engineering systems as they relate to overall building construction and costs.

• Experience working collaboratively with diverse professionals including planners, interior designers, landscape architects, engineers, and specialty consultants.

• Evidence of effective communication and stakeholder management skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of technical architectural expertise and project management capabilities. The requirement for specific software proficiency (AutoCAD, Revit, PMIS) and experience with various project delivery methods (JOC, CMAR, DB) are crucial for operations roles that involve system implementation and process standardization.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of three (3) complex architectural design and renovation projects, ideally within an institutional or higher education setting.

• For each project, clearly articulate the scope, budget managed, and schedule adherence, highlighting any challenges overcome.

• Include examples of construction documents, technical specifications, and design details to demonstrate technical proficiency.

• Present case studies illustrating effective stakeholder coordination and conflict resolution strategies.

Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate experience in documenting and optimizing architectural design workflows from conceptualization to construction administration.

• Provide examples of how you have implemented or improved processes for managing project scope, budget, and schedule.

• Illustrate your approach to ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and institutional guidelines through structured processes.

• Showcase your ability to integrate feedback from clients and consultants into design and construction processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an operations-focused role within architecture, a robust portfolio demonstrating process management, system utilization (PMIS, TMA), and adherence to institutional standards is critical. This section guides candidates on how to present their experience in a way that highlights operational efficiency and project governance.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Flexible work schedules.

• 22 days of accrued vacation leave annually.

• 12 days of accrued sick leave annually.

• 10 paid holidays annually.

• Tuition Reduction Program for staff members, their spouses, and dependents (available from day one).

• 12 weeks of paid parental leave following the birth or adoption of a child.

• Affordable benefits package including dental, vision, and life insurance.

• Retirement program through the Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS).

• Paid time for volunteer activities.

• Paid time for professional development.

• Wellness program for preventative health education and screenings.

• Disability and leave program for income protection.

• Free and confidential Employee Assistance services.

Working Hours:

• Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (40 hours per week).

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is specific to the role and location. The extensive benefits package is typical for a large public institution like ASU, offering stability and comprehensive support for employees, which is an important consideration for operations professionals seeking long-term career stability.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Higher Education & Public Services. Arizona State University (ASU) is a major research institution dedicated to academic excellence, innovation, and accessibility, serving over 100,000 students.

Company Size: Large enterprise, with a significant number of employees across multiple campuses.

Founded: 1885. ASU has a rich history and has evolved into a "New American University" focused on real-world application and societal impact.

Team Structure:

• The role is within Facilities Development and Management (FDM), responsible for maintaining and developing all university-owned property.

• The FDM team likely comprises various specialists in construction, planning, design, engineering, maintenance, and project management.

• This position will collaborate closely with internal clients, external consultants (architects, engineers, construction managers), and potentially supervisory staff within FDM.

Methodology:

• FDM's approach emphasizes creating and caring for the ASU campus environment through quality customer service, resource stewardship, and collaborative efforts.

• Projects are executed with a focus on sustainability, innovation, and meeting the university's evolving needs.

• Data-driven decision-making is implied through the need for critical analysis and presentation of relevant information.

• Process optimization is a key element, as evidenced by the requirement to manage scope, budget, and schedule, and to review consultant work for compliance.

Company Website: https://www.asu.edu/

📝 Enhancement Note: ASU's culture as a "New American University" suggests an environment that values innovation, collaboration, and practical application. For an operations role, understanding this context is key to aligning project execution with the university's mission and strategic goals. The FDM department's focus on stewardship and service implies a need for reliable, efficient, and transparent project management.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a Senior Architect/Design Manager, indicating a mid-to-senior level position within the architectural and project management domain of the operations function. It requires significant experience and the ability to lead design processes and manage project execution independently.

Reporting Structure: The role reports within Facilities Development and Management (FDM). The direct supervisor is likely a Director or Senior Manager overseeing capital projects or design services. Collaboration is expected with a wide array of internal departments and external consultants.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's impact is directly tied to the successful planning, design, and execution of capital projects that shape the physical environment of the university. This includes ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and meet the functional, aesthetic, and sustainability requirements of ASU, thereby supporting the university's academic and research missions.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific project types (e.g., laboratory design, historic preservation) or project delivery methods (CMAR, Design-Build).

• Leadership: Advance to roles managing larger, more complex capital projects, or leading teams of architects, designers, and project managers.

• Strategic Planning: Contribute to the long-term campus master planning and capital investment strategies of ASU.

• Professional Development: Leverage ASU's resources, including tuition reduction and paid professional development time, to pursue advanced certifications, workshops, or further education in project management, sustainable design, or construction law.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior" title and focus on managing complex projects and teams suggest a clear career path within university facilities management. Growth opportunities are likely tied to increasing project scope, leadership responsibilities, and strategic contributions to campus development, aligning with typical career progression in operations and project management.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The primary work environment is an environmentally controlled office setting. However, the role requires significant time on university campuses for site visits, field observations, and construction administration.

Office Location(s): Based at ASU’s Tempe campus (University Services Building, 1551 S. Rural Road, Tempe, AZ). Travel to other ASU campuses may be required depending on operational needs.

Workspace Context:

• The office setting involves extended periods of sitting, keyboarding, and computer use.

• Fieldwork requires standing for varying lengths of time and walking moderate distances across campus sites.

• The role requires physical activities such as bending, reaching, lifting, pushing, and pulling up to 25 pounds.

• Driving a University vehicle or cart to campus sites is a necessary part of the job.

• Access to essential operations tools and technology, including work order systems (TMA), CAD software, and project management information systems, is expected.

Work Schedule:

• Standard business hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. While office-based, the nature of project management may occasionally require flexibility to address urgent site issues or deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The blend of office-based work and on-site field activities is typical for operations roles in construction and facilities management. Candidates should be prepared for both desk-intensive tasks involving system management and reporting, and active site visits requiring physical presence and on-the-ground problem-solving.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Application review to assess qualifications against minimum and desired criteria, focusing on resume and cover letter content for relevant experience and skills.

• Technical Interview: Likely involves discussion of architectural principles, code compliance, project management methodologies, and experience with specific project types. Candidates may be asked to walk through specific projects from their portfolio.

• Case Study/Problem-Solving: A potential exercise or discussion focused on a hypothetical project scenario, assessing problem-solving skills, design approach, budget/schedule management strategies, and stakeholder communication.

• Behavioral Interview: Focus on teamwork, leadership, conflict resolution, and alignment with ASU's culture and values.

• Final Interview: May involve meeting with senior leadership within Facilities Development and Management to discuss overall fit and strategic contributions.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Select Projects: Choose 3-5 projects that best demonstrate your experience in managing design and construction for renovations, tenant improvements, or additions, ideally in institutional settings.

• Highlight Operational Processes: For each project, clearly explain your role in managing scope, budget, and schedule. Detail the processes you used for documentation, client coordination, and consultant oversight.

• Quantify Achievements: Use metrics where possible. For instance, "Managed $X million budget," "Delivered project Y weeks ahead of schedule," or "Reduced design revisions by Z% through improved stakeholder engagement."

• Showcase Technical Proficiency: Include examples of construction documents, specifications, and details that highlight your technical expertise and attention to detail.

• Demonstrate Problem-Solving: Be prepared to discuss specific challenges encountered during projects and how you resolved them, focusing on your process and decision-making.

• Align with ASU's Mission: If possible, subtly connect your project successes to ASU's goals regarding sustainability, efficiency, or community impact.

Challenge Preparation:

• Review ASU Standards: Familiarize yourself with ASU's architectural guidelines, sustainability initiatives, and project delivery methods (JOC, CMAR, DB).

• Code Knowledge: Refresh your understanding of relevant building codes (IBC, accessibility codes) and life safety regulations.

• Project Management Fundamentals: Be prepared to discuss project lifecycle, risk management, and stakeholder communication strategies.

• Software Proficiency: Be ready to discuss your experience with AutoCAD, Revit, Bluebeam, and PMIS, and how you leverage them for design and project management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a role like this involves assessing technical architectural skills, project management operational capabilities, and cultural fit. A well-prepared portfolio that clearly articulates process management and quantifiable results is crucial for demonstrating operational acumen.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Autodesk AutoCAD: Essential for creating and editing 2D and 3D architectural drawings. Proficiency expected for design development and documentation.

• Autodesk Revit: Increasingly the industry standard for Building Information Modeling (BIM), enabling integrated design, construction, and operations. Expected for advanced design and coordination.

• SketchUp: Useful for conceptual design, visualization, and quick 3D modeling.

• Bluebeam Revue: Widely used for PDF creation, markup, editing, and collaboration, particularly for construction documents and review processes.

• Project Management Information Software (PMIS): While not specified, candidates should be prepared to discuss experience with similar systems used for tracking project progress, documents, budgets, and communications (e.g., Procore, PlanGrid, or ASU's internal TMA system).

• TMA (Work Order System): Specifically mentioned for responding to maintenance requests, indicating its role in tracking facility needs and potentially linking them to renovation projects.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Tools for budget tracking, schedule analysis, and performance reporting. This may involve integrated features within PMIS or separate spreadsheet/database tools.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how project data flows from initial requests (potentially via TMA) through design and construction is key.

• Experience with systems that automate document routing, review processes, and approval workflows would be beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in CAD/BIM software and project management tools is critical. These are the operational backbone for design and construction projects, enabling efficient workflow, collaboration, and data management. Experience with systems like TMA points to an operational focus on integrated facility management.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence and Quality: Commitment to high-quality architectural design and construction that meets university standards and user needs.

• Stewardship of Resources: Responsible management of budgets, schedules, and university assets, ensuring efficiency and value.

• Collaboration and Service: Working effectively with diverse stakeholders, prioritizing customer service to support the university's mission.

• Sustainability: Integrating environmentally responsible practices into design and construction processes.

• Innovation: Embracing new technologies and methodologies to improve design and project delivery.

• Integrity and Compliance: Adhering to all university policies, Arizona Board of Regents guidelines, and relevant codes and regulations.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Works closely with various FDM departments (maintenance, planning, construction), university academic and administrative units, external architects, engineers, construction managers, and regulatory bodies.

• Process Review and Feedback: Engages in collaborative design reviews, consultant coordination meetings, and site observations, actively seeking and providing feedback to ensure project alignment and quality.

• Knowledge Sharing: Contributes to a culture of continuous learning by sharing best practices, lessons learned from projects, and expertise in architectural design, codes, and project management.

📝 Enhancement Note: ASU's values of "inclusive excellence," "entrepreneurial energy," and "real-world application" translate into a collaborative and results-oriented work environment within FDM. Operations professionals in this setting are expected to be proactive, service-oriented, and dedicated to supporting the university's broad mission.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Stakeholder Needs: Effectively managing diverse and sometimes conflicting requirements from various university departments, faculty, and external consultants.

• Budget and Schedule Constraints: Delivering complex projects within fixed budgets and tight timelines, requiring meticulous planning and resource management.

• Navigating Regulations and Policies: Ensuring strict compliance with Arizona Board of Regents policies, state/federal codes, and university standards.

• Adapting to Evolving Needs: Responding to the dynamic academic and research needs of ASU, which may require design flexibility and adjustments to project scopes.

• Technological Integration: Keeping pace with and effectively implementing new design software, BIM technologies, and project management tools.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design & BIM Certifications: Pursue specialized training in Revit, BIM management, or sustainable design principles.

• Project Management Professionalism: Obtain certifications like PMP or LEED accreditation.

• Leadership Training: Develop skills in team management, conflict resolution, and strategic planning through internal ASU programs or external workshops.

• Industry Conferences: Attend architectural and construction management conferences to stay abreast of trends and network.

• Mentorship: Benefit from mentorship from senior leaders within FDM or contribute as a mentor to junior staff.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges in this role are typical for large-scale project operations, requiring strong problem-solving and adaptability. The growth opportunities are well-defined within the university structure, offering clear paths for professional development and career advancement in operations and project leadership.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex renovation project you managed from design through construction administration. What were the key challenges, and how did you ensure its success within budget and schedule?" (Focus on process, problem-solving, and quantifiable results).

• "How do you approach balancing the needs of multiple stakeholders with diverse requirements on a single project?" (Demonstrate collaboration, communication, and negotiation skills).

• "Walk us through your process for developing construction documents and specifications. How do you ensure technical accuracy and compliance with building codes?" (Highlight technical expertise and process rigor).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for Arizona State University and specifically within Facilities Development and Management?" (Research ASU's mission, FDM's role, and connect it to your career goals).

• "How do you contribute to a culture of sustainability and innovation in your architectural practice?" (Align your experience with ASU's stated values).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio by project type or by your role in each project. For each, provide a concise overview, your specific responsibilities, key challenges, solutions implemented, and quantifiable outcomes.

• Highlight Operations: Emphasize your role in managing scope, budget, schedule, and stakeholder communication. Use process diagrams or workflow explanations if available.

• Visuals: Include high-quality images, drawings, and renderings. For technical aspects, show examples of detailed construction drawings or specifications.

• Storytelling: Frame your projects as narratives. What was the problem? What was your solution? What was the impact? This makes your experience more memorable.

• Tools & Technology: Be ready to discuss how you utilized specific software (AutoCAD, Revit, Bluebeam, PMIS) and systems (TMA) to facilitate project execution and efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not just architectural skill, but also operational proficiency in project management, stakeholder engagement, and problem-solving within an institutional context. A strong portfolio that highlights process and impact is key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided Workday Jobs Hub link, ensuring you log in using single sign-on.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your experience in managing architectural projects, specifically focusing on design, budget, and schedule management, and your proficiency with relevant software (AutoCAD, Revit, Bluebeam, PMIS).

• Resume Optimization: Clearly list all previous employment with dates (month/year), job titles, key duties, and employer names. Emphasize how your experience directly addresses the minimum and desired qualifications for this Architect Senior – Design Manager role.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions. Prepare to present 2-3 key projects from your portfolio that demonstrate your operational project management skills.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Arizona State University, its mission, and the Facilities Development and Management department. Understand their commitment to sustainability, innovation, and campus development to better align your application and interview responses with their values and operational objectives.

⚠️ 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.

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