Architectural Design Manager | Education

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Architectural Design Manager | Education

Company: Corgan

Location: Dallas, Texas, United States; Houston, Texas, United States; Austin, Texas, United States; San Antonio, Texas, United States; Atlanta, Georgia, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Architectural Design Management / GTM Operations (Design Strategy)

Date Posted: June 07, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage the architectural design process for educational projects, ensuring innovative and high-quality design solutions aligned with firm principles and client objectives.

• Collaborate with Studio and Sector Design Directors to set design expectations, drive design excellence, and mentor project teams throughout the project lifecycle, from conceptualization to construction administration.

• Champion the firm's design approach and innovation tools, promoting technical and professional excellence within the design team and fostering a culture of continuous learning and development.

• Act as an industry expert in major building systems and code implications for educational facilities, providing critical guidance and troubleshooting for project teams.

• Cultivate success through strategic planning, facility requirements analysis, conceptual design, systems integration, and effective teamwork, driving award-winning and published work.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role, while within the architectural field, has significant GTM (Go-To-Market) and operational components. The "Design Manager" title implies a strategic oversight and process-driven approach to design delivery, akin to how Revenue Operations or Sales Operations manage processes and drive efficiency for their respective functions. The emphasis on client presentations, industry expertise, and mentoring also points to a leadership role with GTM implications (client acquisition and retention through design excellence). The focus on "innovation tools" and "firm design approach" suggests a need for process standardization and adoption, core to operations.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Under the direction of Studio and Sector Design Directors, establish clear expectations and lead the design process to deliver exceptional, innovative, and relevant design solutions for education sector projects.

• Collaborate with fellow designers and managers within the studio to uphold and advance the firm's overarching design principles and standards.

• Spearhead the development of effective and innovative designs by leveraging the firm's established design approach and available innovation tools.

• Actively promote design excellence across all projects within the studio, ensuring a consistent standard of quality and creativity.

• Implement the firm's design process rigorously and encourage the adoption of innovation tools to achieve the firm's design and brand objectives.

• Partner with the Principal-in-Charge (PIC) and Studio Design Director to augment project teams, providing design intent interpretation and troubleshooting support during the Construction Administration (CA) phase.

• Present designs compellingly to clients, continuously developing and refining presentation skills to effectively communicate design vision and rationale.

• Serve as an industry expert on major building systems and their application, conveying this knowledge effectively to project teams.

• Demonstrate profound expertise in code implications and requirements for various major building and occupancy types relevant to educational facilities.

• Provide direct oversight and guidance to Project Designers, ensuring their work aligns with project objectives and design standards.

• Showcase knowledge of resources, materials, and their optimal application within the context of educational design projects.

• Direct the production of design materials, including functional concepts, visualizations, schedules, and budgets, that meet defined project objectives.

• Cultivate project success through high-level design and planning, comprehensive facility requirements analysis, innovative conceptual design, seamless systems integration, and effective teamwork.

• Take ownership of ensuring accurate application of codes, regulations, and industry standards throughout the design and documentation process.

• Possess and apply excellent programming and strategic planning skills to define project scope and objectives effectively.

• Foster technical and professional excellence within the project team, encouraging skill development and adherence to best practices.

• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of industry trends, professional practice standards, regulatory changes, and construction practices.

• Identify opportunities and actively seek solutions for the integration of new technologies in project production and communication workflows.

• Mentor and guide project team members to achieve project objectives, fostering a supportive and collaborative environment.

• Support individual development by providing consistent coaching, constructive feedback, and positive reinforcement to team members.

• Contribute to the firm's growth and practice development by inspiring and motivating Project Designers.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities listed are extensive and cover the full design lifecycle. For an operations-minded candidate, the key areas to focus on are "Implements the firms design process," "encourages the use of available innovation tools," "Works with PIC / Studio Design Director to augment the project team throughout the project life being available beyond design for CD design intent interpretations and solutions as well as CA troubleshooting," and "Mentors and provides guidance to project team to achieve objectives." These point to a role that requires process management, change management (tool adoption), cross-functional collaboration, and team development – all critical operations functions.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Professional degree in Architecture or Interior Design.

Experience: 10+ years in the Architectural design industry, with specific and required experience in education projects. A proven track record of exceptional and published design work in Corgan's market sectors is essential.

Required Skills:

• Proven leadership in managing architectural design processes for complex projects, particularly within the education sector.

• Expertise in developing and implementing innovative design solutions that align with firm-wide design principles and brand objectives.

• Strong understanding of major building systems and their application in educational facilities.

• In-depth knowledge of building codes, regulations, and industry standards relevant to educational construction.

• Proficiency in Revit for architectural design and documentation.

• Demonstrated ability to present designs effectively to clients and stakeholders, with strong public speaking and communication skills.

• Experience in programming, strategic planning, and facility requirements analysis for educational institutions.

• Proven ability to mentor and guide project teams, fostering professional growth and technical excellence.

• Track record of successful sustainable design methods and familiarity with tools like AIA's 2030 DDX.

• Strong collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams and studio directors. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with design and implementation of advanced 3D modeling programs such as SketchUp.

• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite for visual communication and design presentation.

• Familiarity with current global design trends relevant to the education sector.

• Experience in pursuing and achieving design awards and publications for significant project contributions.

• Demonstrated ability to inspire and motivate design teams.

• Understanding of construction administration, including design intent interpretation and troubleshooting.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "AI_experience_level": "10+" and "AI_education_requirements": ["professional certificate"] are well-aligned with the provided text. The "AI_key_skills" list is also comprehensive and directly reflects the requirements. For an operations-focused candidate, highlighting experience with "process implementation," "tool adoption," and "team development" within these qualifications will be crucial.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 10 years of professional architectural design experience, with a significant portion dedicated to leading design efforts for educational institutions.

• Include detailed case studies demonstrating successful implementation of innovative design solutions, highlighting the design process from concept to completion.

• Present evidence of expertise in building systems and code compliance for educational facilities, with specific examples of how these were managed.

• Feature projects that exemplify a strong understanding and application of sustainable design principles and potentially the AIA 2030 DDX framework.

• Demonstrate leadership in design teams, illustrating how you mentored, guided, and motivated project members to achieve project objectives and design excellence. Process Documentation:

• Case studies should detail the specific design process followed for key education projects, emphasizing workflow and decision-making stages.

• Illustrate how innovation tools and the firm's design approach were integrated into the project lifecycle to enhance outcomes.

• Provide examples of how facility requirements were analyzed and translated into strategic design and planning initiatives.

• Document approaches to systems integration and how technical challenges were overcome through effective teamwork and problem-solving.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a portfolio and the emphasis on "design process," "innovation tools," "facility requirements analysis," and "systems integration" directly align with operations' focus on structured methodologies and process optimization. Candidates should prepare to articulate their role in defining, implementing, and improving these processes. The mention of "award-winning and published work" suggests a need for portfolio pieces that demonstrate measurable success and impact.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on Corgan's presence in major US cities (Dallas, Houston, Austin, San Antonio, Atlanta) and the 10+ years of experience requirement for a Design Manager role, a typical salary range for this position in the US would be estimated between $120,000 - $180,000 annually. This estimate accounts for the specialized nature of architectural design leadership in the education sector, the firm's stature, and the cost of living in these metropolitan areas.

Benefits:

• Professional Growth Opportunities: Corgan emphasizes creating opportunities for personal and professional growth, suggesting robust development programs, training, and advancement pathways.

• Work-life Balance: The company actively promotes a healthy work-life balance, aiming to remove obstacles and allow employees to focus on their passions both inside and outside the office.

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Typically includes medical, dental, and vision insurance plans, often with competitive employer contributions.

• Retirement Savings Plan: Likely offers a 401(k) or similar retirement savings plan, potentially with an employer match.

• Paid Time Off: Includes vacation days, sick leave, and paid holidays, designed to support work-life balance.

• Professional Development Support: May include reimbursement for professional licenses, certifications, and continuing education units (CEUs) required for architects.

Working Hours: This is a full-time, on-site position requiring the employee to be physically present at the assigned office location Monday through Friday during standard business hours. The typical workweek is 40 hours, though project demands may occasionally require additional hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on industry benchmarks for senior architectural roles in major US markets. The benefits are inferred from the "AI_benefits" and the company's stated commitment to employee growth and work-life balance. The working hours are explicitly stated as full-time, on-site, Monday-Friday, standard business hours.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Architecture, Design, and Planning Services, with a significant specialization in the Education sector. Corgan operates within a competitive market where design innovation, client relationships, and project execution are paramount.

Company Size: Corgan is a large architectural firm, indicated by its multiple office locations and the scope of its projects. This size suggests a structured organization with established processes, a wide range of expertise, and opportunities for diverse career paths.

Founded: Corgan was founded in 1938. This long history implies a stable company with deep roots, extensive experience, and a well-established reputation in the industry. It suggests a culture that values longevity, expertise, and sustained client relationships.

Team Structure:

• Studio-Based Model: Corgan likely utilizes a studio-based organizational structure, where teams are organized around specific market sectors (like Education) or project types. This fosters deep specialization and collaborative synergy within those areas.

• Hierarchical Design Leadership: The role reports up through Studio and Sector Design Directors, indicating a clear leadership hierarchy focused on design quality and project oversight. Project Designers and other team members would report into this role.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: While design is central, this role necessitates collaboration with PICs, project managers, technical specialists, and potentially business development teams to ensure project success from inception through completion and client satisfaction.

Methodology:

• Design-Led Approach: The core methodology is centered on delivering exceptional design, driven by innovation, creativity, and a deep understanding of client needs and industry best practices.

• Process Implementation: Emphasis is placed on implementing and adhering to the firm's established design process and leveraging innovation tools to ensure consistency, efficiency, and quality across projects.

• Data-Informed Design: While not explicitly stated as "data analysis," the role's focus on "facility requirements analysis," "building systems expertise," and "code implications" suggests a data-driven approach to design decision-making, informed by technical knowledge and regulatory frameworks.

Company Website: http://www.corgan.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company description and specialties strongly indicate a large, established firm with a focus on design excellence and a structured approach. The "Education" specialization highlights a key market segment. The founding date points to stability and experience. The team structure and methodology are inferred from the job description's emphasis on leadership, mentorship, and process.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior leadership position within the design function, akin to a senior manager or director in a non-design operations context. It demands extensive technical expertise, proven leadership capabilities, and a strategic understanding of how design contributes to client success and business growth. The scope involves managing design outcomes, mentoring talent, and upholding firm-wide design standards.

Reporting Structure: The Architectural Design Manager | Education will report to the Studio and/or Sector Design Directors. They will, in turn, oversee and mentor Project Designers and potentially other members of the design team assigned to education projects. This structure emphasizes a clear line of accountability for design quality and delivery.

Operations Impact: The impact of this role extends beyond mere project completion. It influences client acquisition and retention through the delivery of exceptional, award-winning designs. By ensuring design excellence, adherence to client needs, and efficient project execution, this role directly contributes to Corgan's reputation, market competitiveness, and financial success within the education sector. The role's ability to mentor and develop talent also ensures the long-term health and capability of the design practice.

Growth Opportunities:

• Design Leadership Advancement: Potential progression to higher leadership roles such as Sector Design Director, Studio Director, or even partnership within the firm, overseeing larger portfolios or broader market segments.

• Specialized Expertise Development: Opportunities to deepen expertise in niche areas of educational design (e.g., STEM facilities, higher education campuses, K-12 innovation labs) or in emerging technologies and sustainable design practices.

• Mentorship and Practice Building: Formalized opportunities to lead mentorship programs, contribute to firm-wide design strategy development, and play a key role in shaping Corgan's design culture and innovation pipeline.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Operations Career Level" framing connects this design leadership role to operational management principles, highlighting the strategic oversight, process management, and team development aspects. The "Operations Impact" section links design outcomes to business results, a core tenet of operations. Growth opportunities are framed within the context of both design leadership and broader firm contribution.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Corgan operates from physical office locations in major metropolitan areas, suggesting a professional, collaborative office environment. The emphasis on "on-site" work indicates a traditional office setting designed for in-person collaboration, idea exchange, and team cohesion.

Office Location(s): The position is available in Dallas, Houston, Austin, San Antonio (Texas), and Atlanta (Georgia). These are major urban centers with vibrant professional communities, offering access to diverse talent pools and industry networks.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Spaces: Offices are likely equipped with studios, conference rooms, and common areas designed to facilitate teamwork, client presentations, and spontaneous interactions among design professionals.

• Technology-Rich Environment: Access to industry-standard hardware and software, including powerful workstations for 3D modeling, rendering, and complex design analysis, is expected.

• Team Interaction: The on-site requirement fosters a culture of direct interaction, mentorship, and knowledge sharing among colleagues, crucial for design development and problem-solving.

Work Schedule: This is a full-time, on-site role requiring presence Monday through Friday during standard business hours. While a 40-hour week is standard, the demanding nature of architectural project delivery may necessitate occasional extended hours to meet deadlines, particularly during critical design phases or client presentation preparations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "On-site" work arrangement and the mention of multiple office locations in major cities are key details. The description implies a professional, collaborative, and technologically equipped workspace typical of large architectural firms.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Application review focusing on resume and portfolio, verifying minimum experience and education requirements.

• Portfolio Presentation & Interview: Candidates will likely present their portfolio to a panel of design directors and senior leaders. This stage assesses design quality, conceptual thinking, project leadership, and communication skills. Be prepared to discuss your design process, contributions to specific projects, and how you've mentored teams.

• Technical & Behavioral Interviews: In-depth discussions covering technical expertise (building systems, codes, software proficiency), leadership style, problem-solving abilities, and cultural fit with Corgan's values. Expect scenario-based questions related to managing design challenges, client interactions, and team dynamics.

• Final Round: May involve meeting with higher-level leadership and potentially a final discussion on strategic vision and contribution to the firm's practice.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 4-6 of your most impactful education projects that clearly demonstrate your leadership, innovative design thinking, and technical proficiency.

• Highlight Process & Impact: For each project, clearly articulate your role, the design challenges, your process for developing solutions, the tools used (Revit, 3D modeling), and the measurable outcomes (e.g., design awards, client satisfaction, sustainability achievements).

• Showcase Leadership & Mentorship: Include examples of how you have led design teams, mentored junior staff, and fostered a collaborative design environment.

• Focus on Education Sector: Ensure a strong emphasis on your experience and understanding of the unique requirements and trends in educational facility design.

• Professional Presentation: Organize your portfolio logically, with high-quality visuals and concise, impactful narrative descriptions. Ensure it is easy to navigate and visually appealing.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Case Study: Be prepared for a potential design challenge or case study exercise. This might involve analyzing a hypothetical educational project brief and outlining your approach to its design and management. Focus on demonstrating strategic thinking, problem-solving, and process orientation.

• Code & Systems Scenario: Anticipate questions related to specific building codes or complex building systems common in educational facilities. Be ready to articulate your expertise and how you would ensure compliance and effective integration.

• Mentorship & Team Management: Prepare to discuss your approach to mentoring junior designers, resolving team conflicts, and motivating a design team towards a common goal.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process emphasizes portfolio presentation and technical/behavioral interviews. The tips provided focus on demonstrating process, impact, and leadership, aligning with operational best practices for showcasing capabilities.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Revit: Essential for architectural design, modeling, and documentation. Proficiency is a core requirement.

• 3D Modeling Software: SketchUp is preferred. Other relevant programs like Rhino or advanced modeling tools may also be beneficial for conceptualization and visualization.

• Adobe Creative Suite: Crucial for creating high-quality presentations, renderings, and graphic materials for client communication. This includes Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.

Analytics & Reporting:

• AIA's 2030 DDX: A key tool for tracking and reporting on sustainable design progress and energy performance for projects. Familiarity is required.

• Project Management Software: While not explicitly listed, Corgan likely uses project management tools (e.g., Procore, Autodesk Construction Cloud, or internal systems) for tracking project progress, budgets, and timelines. Understanding of these systems is advantageous.

• Internal Reporting Tools: Likely utilizes internal dashboards or reporting mechanisms to track design metrics, team performance, and project status.

CRM & Automation:

• Client Relationship Management (CRM): Corgan would use a CRM system to manage client interactions, track leads, and nurture relationships. While this role is not primarily CRM-focused, understanding its importance in client acquisition and retention is beneficial.

• Workflow Automation: Familiarity with concepts of workflow automation within design processes, such as using scripts or plugins to streamline repetitive tasks in Revit or other software, is valuable.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Primary Tools" are explicitly mentioned in the job description. The "Analytics & Reporting" and "CRM & Automation" sections are based on industry standards for architectural firms of Corgan's size and specialization, inferring the types of systems they would likely leverage for project management, sustainability tracking, and client relations.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Design Excellence: A paramount value driving all work, emphasizing creativity, innovation, and the pursuit of outstanding architectural solutions.

• Curiosity & Collaboration: Corgan fosters a culture where curiosity is encouraged, and collaboration is seen as essential for developing the best ideas and solutions. This translates to an environment where open communication and teamwork are highly valued.

• Continuous Improvement: The emphasis on "progressively seeking more responsibilities," "innovation tools," and "mentorship" suggests a commitment to ongoing learning, skill development, and refining processes.

• Client Focus: The role's responsibility for client presentations and delivering "exceptional and relevant innovative design solutions" highlights a strong client-centric approach, aiming to meet and exceed client expectations.

• Integrity & Professionalism: As an established firm, Corgan likely upholds high standards of professional ethics, integrity, and accountability in all its dealings.

Collaboration Style:

• Studio-Centric: Collaboration is likely centered within design studios, fostering close-knit teams that share expertise and support each other's projects.

• Cross-Functional Partnerships: The role requires collaboration not only within the design team but also with project managers, directors, and potentially marketing/business development to ensure holistic project success.

• Mentorship-Driven: A strong emphasis on mentorship means collaboration often involves guiding and developing junior team members, creating a supportive learning environment.

• Open Communication: The culture encourages open dialogue, feedback exchange, and a willingness to challenge ideas constructively to achieve the best design outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Values and collaboration style are inferred from the company's overview, the role's responsibilities, and general industry best practices for leading design firms. The focus is on how these cultural elements impact the operational execution of design projects and team management.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Innovation with Practicality: Leading design for education projects requires integrating cutting-edge design concepts with strict budget constraints, functional requirements, and evolving educational pedagogies.

• Managing Diverse Stakeholder Needs: Effectively navigating the expectations of various stakeholders (school administrators, faculty, students, parents, community members, regulatory bodies) while maintaining design integrity.

• Driving Process Adoption: Encouraging and ensuring consistent adoption of firm-wide design processes and innovation tools among a team of creative professionals, who may have established individual workflows.

• Staying Ahead of Trends: Continuously monitoring and integrating advancements in educational design, sustainable technologies, and construction practices to ensure Corgan's offerings remain competitive and relevant.

• Mentoring and Developing Talent: Effectively guiding and developing a diverse team of designers, fostering their growth while ensuring project deliverables meet high standards.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Training: Access to specialized training in areas like sustainable design certifications, advanced BIM workflows, parametric design, or specific educational facility typologies.

• Industry Conferences & Networking: Opportunities to attend leading architectural and education industry conferences, gaining insights and building professional networks.

• Leadership Development Programs: Formal programs focused on enhancing leadership, strategic planning, financial management, and people management skills.

• Practice Development: Involvement in shaping Corgan's design strategy, contributing to firm-wide initiatives, and potentially participating in business development efforts.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges are framed around the operational execution of design within the education sector, emphasizing process, stakeholder management, and innovation. Growth opportunities are directly linked to career progression and skill enhancement within the architectural and design management field.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for leading a design team on a complex education project from concept through construction administration. How do you ensure design intent is maintained and challenges are resolved?" (Focus on process, problem-solving, and leadership.)

• "How do you foster innovation and encourage the use of new design tools and technologies within a design team? Provide specific examples." (Focus on change management, tool adoption, and innovation.)

• "How do you balance client expectations, project budgets, technical requirements, and your firm's design principles when developing design solutions for educational facilities?" (Focus on strategic decision-making and stakeholder management.)

• "Describe a time you had to mentor a junior designer. What was your approach, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on leadership, coaching, and team development.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Corgan's design philosophy, particularly within the education sector, and how does your approach align with it?" (Focus on research and cultural fit.)

• "How do you view the role of design management in contributing to a firm's overall business objectives and market reputation?" (Focus on understanding the business impact of design.)

• "Describe your ideal work environment and how you contribute to a positive and collaborative team culture." (Focus on cultural alignment and teamwork.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly define the problem, your innovative solution, your process, your role in leading the team, and the tangible results.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, use metrics or specific achievements (e.g., awards, publications, client testimonials, sustainability targets met) to demonstrate success.

• Highlight Process & Tools: Explicitly discuss the design processes you employed and the technology (Revit, 3D modeling) you leveraged. Show how you managed the workflow.

• Engage Your Audience: Be prepared to answer detailed questions about your design decisions and leadership approach. Make it an interactive discussion.

• Connect to Corgan: Tailor your presentation to showcase how your experience and approach can benefit Corgan's education sector practice.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview questions are designed to probe operational competencies such as process management, leadership, problem-solving, and strategic thinking, framed within the context of architectural design. The portfolio presentation strategy emphasizes demonstrating process, impact, and leadership.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Architectural Design Manager | Education position:

• Submit your application through the Corgan careers website, ensuring you upload your portfolio.

• Customize Your Resume: Highlight your 10+ years of experience, specifically emphasizing your leadership roles in education sector projects, technical proficiency (Revit, 3D modeling), and experience with sustainable design and code compliance. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a selection of your strongest education projects, focusing on demonstrating your design process, leadership, problem-solving skills, and the impact of your work. Be ready to walk through these projects in detail, explaining your methodology and contributions.

• Research Corgan: Thoroughly understand Corgan's design philosophy, their work in the education sector, and their company values. Prepare to articulate how your approach aligns with their culture and objectives.

• Practice Your Presentation: Rehearse your portfolio presentation and anticipated interview answers, focusing on clear, concise communication and demonstrating your strategic thinking and leadership capabilities.

⚠️ 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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