Assistant Design Manager (Portland)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Assistant Design Manager

Company: Turner Construction

Location: Portland, OR, USA

Job Type: Regular, Full-Time

Category: Construction Management / Design Operations

Date Posted: July 28, 2026

Experience Level: Experienced (8+ years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is crucial for integrating design processes within construction projects, ensuring technical requirements are met with economic efficiency.

• The Assistant Design Manager will act as a key liaison between design teams, construction personnel, and client representatives to facilitate smooth project progression.

• Responsibilities include the thorough review and management of design documents, specifications, and shop drawings to ensure alignment with the client's Basis of Design.

• A strong focus will be placed on identifying and implementing design optimizations to enhance constructability, mitigate risks, and reduce project costs while accelerating delivery timelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Assistant Design Manager," the extensive responsibilities and experience requirements (8+ years) suggest a role with significant autonomy and impact, closely mirroring a Design Manager or Project Design Lead position within a construction context. The emphasis on "operations" in this context refers to the operational aspects of design management within the construction lifecycle, including process optimization, stakeholder coordination, and risk mitigation.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Act as an integral member of the construction team, collaborating closely with Design Managers, Preconstruction teams, Business Development, and Project Managers throughout the project lifecycle, from inception to completion.

• Proactively communicate the status of daily design tasks and activities to all project stakeholders, ensuring timely progression of design elements and the swift identification of challenges requiring innovative design solutions.

• Coordinate effectively with Technical Engineering Group (TEG) Design Specialists to ensure appropriate and timely reviews of milestone documents and to address critical design concerns.

• Conduct comprehensive reviews of design documents, specifications, and construction/shop drawings provided by design partners and subcontractors, verifying adherence to the client's Basis of Design and technical specifications.

• Manage the timely delivery and overall completeness of all required design documentation, ensuring no critical path delays are introduced.

• Contribute to the development and refinement of relevant subcontractor contractual language pertaining to design responsibilities and deliverables.

• Actively participate in design review meetings, identifying opportunities for design optimization to improve constructability, reduce waste, and proactively detect potential risks.

• Understand and apply continuous improvement methodologies to minimize design preparation costs and accelerate the delivery schedule.

• Perform other assigned activities, duties, and responsibilities as required to support project objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical review, project coordination, and process improvement, typical of operations-focused roles within large construction firms. The emphasis on "continuous improvement methodology" and "minimize costs for and speeds delivery of design preparation" directly aligns with operational efficiency goals.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited degree program in Engineering or Architecture. Experience:

• Minimum of 8 years of experience in Engineering or Design Project Management, specifically including the Construction Administration portion of Engineering and Design Management.

• Equivalent combination of education, training, and experience will be considered.

• Previous industry experience working in a Design firm is considered a plus.

• Previous design-build design and construction experience is considered a plus.

• Demonstrated experience in Estimating and Scheduling. Required Skills:

• Structured Thinking & Creativity: Ability to think in a highly structured manner across all design disciplines, coupled with creativity to develop specialized solutions and anticipate potential challenges and opportunities.

• Cross-Functional Knowledge: Comprehensive understanding of key engineering disciplines, including Architectural, Structural, and MEP/HVAC systems, and their relevant trade applications.

• Design Review & Analysis: Proficiency in conducting thorough reviews of design documents, specifications, and construction drawings to ensure compliance and identify optimization opportunities.

• Project Coordination: Strong ability to coordinate tasks and communicate effectively with diverse project stakeholders, including internal teams, design partners, subcontractors, and clients.

• Continuous Improvement: Familiarity with and application of continuous improvement methodologies to enhance process efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and delivery speed.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in a Design firm environment.

• Direct experience with design-build project delivery models.

• Advanced proficiency in construction estimating and scheduling software.

• Knowledge of risk management frameworks within construction projects.

• Familiarity with contractual language related to design services.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience requirement of 8+ years, combined with a Bachelor's degree, positions this as a mid-to-senior level role. The emphasis on structured thinking, cross-functional knowledge, and continuous improvement points towards an operations-centric approach to design management, focusing on process efficiency and risk mitigation within the construction project lifecycle.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Optimization Case Studies: Showcase examples of how you identified and implemented design changes to improve constructability, reduce costs, or accelerate project timelines. Quantify the impact of these optimizations where possible.

• Document Management & Review Examples: Provide samples (or detailed descriptions) of your work in reviewing design documents, specifications, and shop drawings, demonstrating your ability to ensure compliance and identify critical issues.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration Documentation: Illustrate instances where you effectively coordinated between design teams, construction teams, and clients, highlighting communication strategies and conflict resolution approaches.

• Risk Identification & Mitigation Examples: Present case studies where you proactively identified design-related risks and proposed solutions to mitigate them, demonstrating foresight and problem-solving skills.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Candidates may be asked to describe their approach to designing or optimizing design workflow processes within a construction project context.

• System Integration: Discuss experience with systems or tools that facilitate design coordination, document management, and stakeholder communication within large-scale construction projects.

• Performance Analysis: Demonstrate an understanding of how to measure the effectiveness of design processes and identify areas for continuous improvement, using metrics relevant to cost, schedule, and quality.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role like this, a portfolio demonstrating practical application of design management principles within construction is critical. The emphasis should be on tangible results, process improvements, and collaborative problem-solving, reflecting the operational demands of the construction industry.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• The estimated annual salary range for this position is $110,000 - $165,000 USD. This range reflects the experience level, responsibilities, and location of the role. Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage options.

• Retirement Savings Plan: 401(k) plan with potential company match.

• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation, sick leave, and holiday pay.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, certifications, and continuing education relevant to construction and design management.

• Life and Disability Insurance: Coverage to provide financial security.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Support services for personal and professional well-being.

• Potential for Performance Bonuses: Based on individual and company performance.

Working Hours:

• This is a full-time position, typically requiring approximately 40 hours per week. However, project demands may necessitate occasional extended hours or weekend work to meet critical deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is a strong indicator of the role's seniority and the company's investment in experienced professionals. The benefits listed are standard for large construction firms and are designed to attract and retain talent in specialized fields like construction management and design operations.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction

Company Size: Turner Construction is a large, established player in the global construction industry, known for its significant project portfolio and extensive workforce. This size implies structured processes, robust resources, and opportunities for career progression.

Founded: Turner Construction was founded in 1902, bringing over a century of experience and a deep-rooted heritage to the construction sector. This longevity suggests stability, a strong reputation, and established best practices.

Team Structure:

• Project-Centric Teams: Operations are typically organized around specific projects, with cross-functional teams comprising project managers, superintendents, engineers, designers, and support staff.

• Hierarchical Reporting: The Assistant Design Manager will likely report to a Design Manager or Project Director, with clear lines of accountability within the project hierarchy.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: A significant aspect of the role involves collaborating with various internal departments (Preconstruction, Business Development, Project Management) and external partners (architects, engineers, subcontractors, clients).

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Turner Construction emphasizes using data and analytics to inform decisions, from estimating and scheduling to risk assessment and design optimization.

• Process Optimization Focus: The company actively promotes continuous improvement methodologies to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve project delivery outcomes.

• Safety First Culture: A paramount focus on safety is embedded in all operations, with stringent protocols and training to ensure a secure work environment.

Company Website: https://www.turnerconstruction.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Turner Construction's long history and large size indicate a professional, process-oriented environment. The emphasis on safety, data-driven decisions, and continuous improvement aligns well with the operational focus of this role. Candidates should be prepared for a structured work environment that values efficiency and risk management.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Experienced Professional / Mid-Level Management

This role represents a significant step in a career focused on the operational aspects of construction design. It requires a solid foundation in engineering or architecture, coupled with substantial practical experience in managing design processes within construction projects. The "Assistant" title may indicate a stepping stone to a full Design Manager role, or it could signify a specialized function within a larger design management team. The responsibilities suggest a high level of technical and project management competence.

Reporting Structure:

• The Assistant Design Manager will typically report to a Design Manager, Project Director, or a senior Project Manager, depending on the project's organizational structure. They will also work closely with and provide guidance to junior design staff or specific trade coordinators. Operations Impact:

• This role has a direct impact on the project's success by ensuring that designs are not only technically sound but also constructible, economical, and delivered on time. Effective design management operations can significantly reduce costly change orders, delays, and potential disputes during the construction phase, directly contributing to project profitability and client satisfaction. Growth Opportunities:

• Advancement to Design Manager: A clear path exists to progress to a full Design Manager role, overseeing larger and more complex design operations for major construction projects.

• Specialization: Opportunities to specialize in specific project types (e.g., healthcare, high-rise, infrastructure) or technical areas (e.g., MEP coordination, sustainable design integration).

• Project Leadership: Potential to lead design efforts on significant projects, taking on greater responsibility for client interface and strategic decision-making.

• Cross-Functional Moves: Experience gained could lead to roles in preconstruction, project management, or even business development, leveraging a deep understanding of project lifecycle operations.

• Continuous Learning: Access to company-sponsored training, industry certifications, and professional development programs to stay abreast of evolving design technologies and construction methodologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career trajectory from Assistant Design Manager at a firm like Turner Construction typically involves deep specialization in construction design operations, with clear pathways to leadership and greater project responsibility. The company's investment in professional development further supports long-term career growth within the organization.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type:

• This role involves a mix of office-based work and on-site project visits. The office environment will likely be professional and collaborative, equipped with standard office technology. Office Location(s):

• The primary work location is Portland, OR, with specific project sites potentially varying within the metropolitan area or surrounding regions. Travel to these sites will be a regular part of the role. Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The office space will likely foster collaboration, with meeting rooms, shared workspaces, and access to design software and project management tools.

• Technology Integration: Expect access to robust IT infrastructure, including powerful workstations for design software, cloud-based project management platforms, and communication tools.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular interaction with project teams, design specialists, and management, promoting a dynamic and communicative work atmosphere.

Work Schedule:

• Standard business hours (approximately 40 hours per week) are expected, but flexibility is necessary. Project deadlines, site conditions, and coordination needs may require working extended hours, including evenings and weekends, particularly during critical project phases. The on-site nature means adapting to project schedules and site accessibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work environment (office and site) is standard for construction management roles. Candidates should be comfortable with a dynamic schedule and the need to adapt to various project site conditions, while also valuing the collaborative and resource-rich office setting.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess qualifications against the core requirements.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the hiring manager (likely a Design Manager or Project Director) to delve into your experience, technical skills, and understanding of construction design operations. Expect questions on your approach to design review, constructability, and risk management.

• Technical/Team Interview: You may meet with other members of the design or project management team. This stage often includes technical challenges or scenario-based questions related to design coordination, problem-solving, and stakeholder communication.

• Portfolio Presentation (Potential): Candidates may be asked to present key projects from their portfolio, focusing on their role in design management, process improvements, and achieved outcomes.

• Final Interview: A conversation with senior leadership to discuss cultural fit, career aspirations, and overall suitability for the role and Turner Construction.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Impact: For each project, clearly articulate your specific contributions, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented, and the quantifiable results (e.g., cost savings, schedule improvements, risk mitigation).

• Showcase Process: Detail the design processes you managed or improved. Highlight your approach to document control, coordination, and review cycles.

• Demonstrate Collaboration: Include examples of effective communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders, illustrating your ability to navigate complex project dynamics.

• Technical Depth: Be prepared to discuss the technical aspects of designs you've worked on, demonstrating your cross-functional knowledge of architectural, structural, and MEP systems.

• Tailor to Turner: Research Turner Construction's project types and values. Highlight experiences that align with their known strengths and operational priorities.

Challenge Preparation:

• Constructability Challenges: Be ready to analyze a set of design drawings or a scenario and identify potential constructability issues, suggesting practical solutions.

• Process Improvement Scenarios: Prepare to discuss how you would improve a given design workflow or address a specific operational bottleneck in the design-to-construction handoff.

• Stakeholder Management Questions: Practice articulating how you would handle disagreements between design teams and subcontractors, or how you would communicate critical design changes to a client.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is likely to be rigorous, evaluating both technical expertise and operational acumen. A strong portfolio that demonstrates practical problem-solving, process efficiency, and collaborative success will be key to advancing.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Revit/BIM Software: Proficiency in Building Information Modeling (BIM) software like Autodesk Revit is essential for design visualization, coordination, and clash detection.

• AutoCAD: Familiarity with AutoCAD for 2D drafting and design documentation.

• Project Management Software: Experience with platforms like Procore, Autodesk Construction Cloud, or similar systems for managing project documentation, communication, and workflows.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Advanced skills in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook for documentation, analysis, reporting, and communication.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Excel (Advanced): For data analysis, creating custom reports, and financial modeling related to design costs and optimization.

• Estimating Software: Familiarity with software used for cost estimation (e.g., Timberline, Sage Estimating) is beneficial.

• Scheduling Software: Experience with tools like Primavera P6 or Microsoft Project for project scheduling and timeline management.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design inputs affect sales and client relationship management (CRM) systems is a plus.

• Familiarity with document management systems and potential automation tools for workflow efficiency within design processes.

• Bluebeam Revu: Commonly used for PDF creation, markup, editing, and collaboration on design documents.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in BIM and project management software is critical for this role. The ability to leverage these tools for design review, coordination, and process optimization will be a key differentiator.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity & Ethics: Upholding the highest standards of honesty and ethical conduct in all business dealings and project execution.

• Safety: A non-negotiable commitment to the safety and well-being of all employees, partners, and the public.

• Excellence: Striving for the highest quality in all aspects of work, from design coordination to project completion.

• Teamwork: Fostering a collaborative environment where diverse expertise is valued and leveraged for collective success.

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: Encouraging new ideas and methodologies to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve project outcomes.

Collaboration Style:

• Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) Mindset: Encourages early collaboration between all project stakeholders, including designers, contractors, and owners, to optimize project outcomes.

• Open Communication: A culture that values transparent and direct communication, with an emphasis on proactive problem-solving and feedback exchange.

• Cross-Functional Synergy: Actively promotes working across disciplines and departments to leverage collective knowledge and ensure seamless project execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: Turner Construction's values emphasize a strong operational foundation built on safety, quality, and collaboration. Candidates should demonstrate an understanding of these principles and how they apply to the daily execution of design management within a construction context.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Cost, Schedule, and Quality: Continuously managing the inherent tension between delivering high-quality designs, staying within budget, and meeting aggressive project schedules.

• Managing Diverse Stakeholder Expectations: Effectively navigating the needs and priorities of clients, architects, engineers, subcontractors, and internal teams, all of whom may have differing perspectives.

• Rapidly Evolving Technologies: Keeping pace with advancements in BIM, AI in design, and new construction methodologies to maintain a competitive edge.

• On-Site Coordination: The complexity of coordinating design intent with real-world site conditions and construction progress, requiring adaptability and quick problem-solving.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced BIM Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in BIM software and its application in design coordination and project lifecycle management.

• Project Management Certifications: Support for obtaining or maintaining certifications like PMP (Project Management Professional) or CCM (Certified Construction Manager).

• Industry Conferences & Seminars: Access to leading industry events focused on construction innovation, design-build, and project management best practices.

• Mentorship Programs: Potential to be mentored by senior design managers or project directors, gaining invaluable insights into leadership and strategic operations.

• Exposure to Diverse Projects: Working on a variety of challenging projects provides continuous learning opportunities and broadens technical and operational experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant opportunities for professional growth by tackling complex challenges inherent in large-scale construction projects and benefiting from Turner Construction's commitment to employee development and exposure to cutting-edge industry practices.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you identified a significant constructability issue during the design review phase. How did you address it, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on your process, collaboration, and quantitative results.)

• "How do you ensure effective communication and coordination between design partners, subcontractors, and the construction team to maintain project schedule and budget?" (Highlight your communication strategies, tools, and proactive approach.)

• "Walk us through your process for reviewing design documents and specifications. What are the key elements you look for to ensure alignment with the client's Basis of Design and identify potential risks?" (Demonstrate your analytical rigor and attention to detail.)

• "Discuss your experience with continuous improvement methodologies in a project setting. Can you provide an example of how you optimized a design process to save costs or accelerate delivery?" (Showcase your operational mindset and problem-solving skills.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Turner Construction's approach to project delivery and its commitment to safety and quality?" (Research their website, recent projects, and company values.)

• "How do you see yourself contributing to a culture of collaboration and innovation within our design and construction teams?" (Align your values with theirs, emphasizing teamwork and continuous improvement.)

• "Describe a situation where you had to manage conflicting priorities or demands from different project stakeholders. How did you resolve it?" (Illustrate your stakeholder management and negotiation skills.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: For each case study, follow a clear narrative: Project Overview -> Your Role & Responsibilities -> Challenge(s) -> Solution(s) Implemented (focus on process) -> Results Achieved (quantify!) -> Lessons Learned.

• Visuals: Use relevant drawings, diagrams, or photos to illustrate your points, but avoid overwhelming the audience. Focus on clarity and relevance to the operations you managed.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use numbers to demonstrate the value of your contributions – e.g., "reduced rework by 15%," "saved $50,000 in material costs," "accelerated schedule by 2 weeks."

• Focus on Process: Emphasize how you achieved results – your methodologies, coordination efforts, and problem-solving steps.

• Conciseness: Be prepared to present your most impactful projects within a defined timeframe, highlighting key achievements relevant to the Assistant Design Manager role.

📝 Enhancement Note: Effective interview preparation for this role requires demonstrating not just technical knowledge but also a strong operational understanding of the construction lifecycle, focusing on efficiency, risk management, and collaborative execution.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations-focused construction management position:

• Submit your application through the Turner Construction careers portal via the provided link.

• Curate Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight your 8+ years of experience in design project management and construction administration. Emphasize keywords such as "design review," "constructability analysis," "BIM coordination," "stakeholder communication," "process optimization," and "risk mitigation." Quantify achievements wherever possible.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 key projects that best showcase your experience in design management, process improvement, and collaborative problem-solving within construction. Be ready to articulate your specific contributions, the methodologies you employed, and the tangible results you achieved.

• Research Turner Construction: Familiarize yourself with their project portfolio, company values, and commitment to safety, quality, and innovation. Understand their approach to project delivery and design integration.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare thoughtful answers to potential interview questions, focusing on behavioral examples that demonstrate your skills in design coordination, stakeholder management, risk assessment, and continuous improvement within a construction context.

⚠️ 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.