CA Corp Construction and Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Commercial Design / Project Manager

Company: Olen Properties

Location: Newport Beach, CA, USA

Job Type: Full Time

Category: Operations (Real Estate/Property Management Operations)

Date Posted: June 07, 2026

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Optimize the use of physical commercial spaces to enhance efficiency and functionality for tenants and the organization.

• Analyze space requirements, develop comprehensive layout plans, and coordinate with internal teams and external tenants to meet strategic goals.

• Manage assigned projects, including timelines, budgets, and the end-to-end design and permitting process for tenant improvements and capital projects.

• Ensure seamless collaboration with construction teams, consultants, and site personnel to maintain project momentum and adherence to company standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title "CA Corp Construction and Design Manager" might suggest a broader construction management role, the detailed responsibilities and requirements clearly point towards a specialized focus on space planning, design coordination, and project management within the context of commercial real estate development and tenant improvements, aligning more closely with operations management within a property development firm.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Project Lifecycle Management: Oversee assigned commercial real estate projects from initial concept through completion, ensuring strict adherence to project timelines and budgetary constraints.

• Tenant Space Planning & Design: Conduct programming meetings with tenants, leasing, and development teams to meticulously capture and translate space requirements into functional "test fit" plans using CAD software.

• Design & Development Coordination: Collaborate closely with architectural firms, consultants, and the internal construction team to develop working drawings, obtain necessary permits, and ensure plans are accurately executed on-site.

• Capital Improvement Oversight: Lead design, programming, and feasibility studies for new projects and capital improvements, including consultant selection, coordination, and invoice management.

• On-Site Project Supervision: Work directly with site superintendents, project administrators, and general contractors, providing regular check-ins and on-site presence to ensure project progress and smooth operations.

• Stakeholder Communication: Interface regularly with the executive team to provide comprehensive job progress updates and address any outstanding issues or strategic considerations.

• Process & Compliance: Ensure all aspects of due diligence, entitlements, design, and permitting processes are successfully met, adhering to company standards and building codes.

• Reporting & Documentation: Develop a clear understanding of consultant and contractor scopes of service, providing weekly reports on action items and development responsibilities.

• Site Visits: Conduct necessary site visits to job sites for field measurements, plan verification, and ongoing project oversight.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a blend of strategic planning (feasibility studies, programming) and tactical execution (CAD work, site presence, permit oversight), requiring a candidate who can manage both the conceptual and detail-oriented aspects of commercial property development and tenant fit-outs.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Interior Design, Architecture, or a closely related field is preferred.

• Professional certifications such as NCIDQ for space planning or interior design are a plus. Experience:

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in commercial space planning and design.

• Prior experience working with an owner/builder or developer is highly preferred.

• Proven experience managing project timelines and budgets. Required Skills:

• CAD Proficiency: Advanced proficiency in AutoCAD; experience with Revit or SketchUp is also required.

• Space Management Software: Familiarity with space management software such as Archibus or Serraview is essential for efficient space allocation and tracking.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Strong working knowledge of Office 365, including advanced skills in Excel (for budget analysis and reporting), Word, SharePoint (for document management), and Outlook (for communication and scheduling).

• Building Codes: Solid understanding of relevant building codes and regulations to ensure compliance in all designs and plans.

• Project Management Fundamentals: Ability to manage project tasks, timelines, and budgets effectively.

• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex design and project requirements clearly.

• English Proficiency: Ability to speak, read, write, and understand the English language fluently.

Preferred Skills:

• Commercial Real Estate Operations: Experience within the commercial real estate industry, understanding lease agreements, tenant needs, and developer requirements.

• Construction Process Knowledge: Familiarity with construction methodologies and the ability to work effectively with construction teams.

• Negotiation & Vendor Management: Skills to effectively manage consultants and contractors.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for specific CAD software (AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp) and space management software (Archibus, Serraview) highlights the need for technical proficiency. The emphasis on Office 365, particularly Excel and SharePoint, indicates a need for strong data management and organizational skills critical for operations roles.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Space Planning Case Studies: Showcase examples of commercial space planning projects, detailing the initial requirements, design process, challenges encountered, and the final optimized space solution.

• CAD Drawings & Renderings: Include a selection of professional CAD drawings (floor plans, elevations, test fits) and any relevant 3D renderings or visualizations to demonstrate technical design capabilities.

• Project Management Documentation: Present examples of project plans, timelines, budget breakdowns, and progress reports that illustrate effective project management and financial oversight.

• Tenant Improvement Examples: Highlight specific tenant improvement projects managed, demonstrating the ability to translate diverse tenant needs into functional and compliant designs.

• Process Flow Documentation: Provide examples of how you've documented or optimized design and construction workflows, including permit application processes or consultant coordination.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design: Demonstrate experience in designing and documenting workflows for space planning, design development, and permit acquisition, emphasizing efficiency and clarity.

• System Implementation: Showcase how you've integrated or utilized space management software (e.g., Archibus, Serraview) or other operational tools to streamline processes and improve data accuracy.

• Performance Analysis: Include examples of how you've tracked and reported on project performance metrics, such as budget adherence, schedule compliance, and space utilization improvements.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is crucial for this role, as it will serve as tangible proof of the candidate's ability to execute space planning, design, and project management tasks. Emphasis should be placed on demonstrating quantifiable improvements and efficient process management in past projects.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $95,000 - $120,000 per Year. This range is posted and flexible based on experience and skill level, reflecting industry standards for a Design/Project Manager with 2-5 years of specialized commercial real estate experience in the high-cost Newport Beach, CA market.

Benefits:

• Health & Wellness: Subsidized health insurance (medical, dental, vision) to support employee well-being.

• Income Protection: Company-paid life insurance and long-term disability (LTD) insurance for financial security.

• Retirement Savings: 401(k) Plan with a company match, supporting long-term financial planning.

• Work-Life Balance: Paid time off (PTO) for rest and personal pursuits.

• Employee Programs: Dedicated Employee Wellness Program to promote health and engagement.

• Legal Compliance: All other benefits and leaves as required by law.

• Additional Perks: Unique company culture elements such as "Easter Egg hunts on the lawn and Summer BBQs" contribute to a positive work environment.

Working Hours:

• Full-time, typically an 8-hour shift, Monday through Friday. This schedule is standard for on-site roles in property management operations, allowing for flexibility within the typical business week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is competitive for a Design/Project Manager in the Newport Beach area with the specified experience level. The benefits package is comprehensive, offering standard protections and retirement savings, with unique cultural perks that suggest a strong employee-centric environment.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Commercial Real Estate (Office and Flex-Industrial Properties)

Company Size: Olen Properties manages over 6 million sq. ft. of premier commercial properties, indicating a substantial portfolio and likely a mid-to-large sized organization within the real estate sector.

Founded: 50 years ago, signifying a long-standing presence and stability in the Orange County market.

Team Structure:

• Operations Focus: The role is embedded within the operations of a property development and management firm, requiring close collaboration with leasing, development, and construction teams.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: This position necessitates frequent interaction with internal departments (leasing, development, executive team) and external stakeholders (tenants, architectural firms, consultants, general contractors).

• Reporting Hierarchy: The role reports to the executive team for job progress reviews, implying a direct line of communication with senior leadership on project status.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Emphasizes using tenant and organizational needs to drive space planning decisions, aligning with a data-informed approach to property optimization.

• Process-Oriented Execution: Focuses on structured project management, from programming and design to permitting and construction, ensuring systematic execution.

• Efficiency & Optimization: Core objective is to maximize space utilization and improve workflow, reflecting a commitment to operational efficiency in property management.

Company Website: www.Olen.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Olen Properties' 50-year history suggests a stable and experienced organization. The role's emphasis on tenant satisfaction and space optimization aligns with the operational goals of a successful commercial real estate owner and manager.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as an intermediate-level position, requiring specialized skills in design and project management within the real estate operations domain. It bridges the gap between entry-level design roles and senior development management.

Reporting Structure: The position reports directly to the executive team for job progress reviews, indicating a high level of visibility and direct impact on strategic property decisions. This close proximity to leadership offers significant learning opportunities.

Operations Impact: The role directly influences the functionality, efficiency, and tenant satisfaction of Olen Properties' commercial portfolio. Successful space planning and project execution contribute to tenant retention, property value, and overall operational profitability.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization Advancement: Potential to deepen expertise in specific areas like sustainable design, advanced space utilization technologies, or complex capital improvement projects.

• Project Management Expansion: Opportunity to manage larger, more complex, or multiple concurrent projects, potentially leading to a senior project management or development manager role.

• Leadership Development: Direct interaction with the executive team and cross-functional leadership provides exposure to strategic decision-making and potential pathways into property management or development leadership.

• Industry Certifications: Encouragement to pursue further certifications (e.g., PMP, LEED) to enhance professional qualifications and career trajectory.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear path for growth within real estate operations and development, moving from specific design and project execution to broader strategic management responsibilities. The direct reporting line is a significant advantage for career progression.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Primarily an office environment with regular travel to job sites. This indicates a dynamic workspace that balances structured office operations with hands-on site presence.

Office Location(s): The primary office is located at 7 Corporate Plaza, Newport Beach, CA 92660. Regular travel to various job sites within Orange County is expected.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The office serves as a central point for planning, coordination, and stakeholder meetings, fostering a collaborative atmosphere for design and project discussions.

• Tools & Technology: Access to necessary design software (AutoCAD, Revit) and office productivity tools (Office 365) is fundamental to performing daily tasks and supporting project operations.

• Field Integration: The requirement for on-site presence at job sites ensures a practical understanding of construction realities and allows for direct problem-solving and quality control.

Work Schedule: The standard Monday-Friday, 8-hour shift (40 hours/week) provides a structured work schedule. Occasional site visits might require some flexibility, but the core hours are consistent with typical office-based operations roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The blend of office-based work and on-site visits is typical for real estate project management roles. It offers a varied work experience, combining analytical tasks with practical site supervision.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio for alignment with essential qualifications, focusing on commercial space planning experience, CAD proficiency, and project management fundamentals.

• Technical/Design Interview: A discussion with the hiring manager or a senior member of the design/development team to assess technical skills in AutoCAD, Revit, space planning methodologies, and understanding of building codes. Portfolio review will be a key component.

• Project Management & Operations Interview: An evaluation of project management capabilities, budget adherence, timeline management, and stakeholder coordination skills. This may involve scenario-based questions related to managing tenant improvements or capital projects.

• Cross-Functional/Cultural Fit Interview: Interaction with members of the construction, leasing, or executive teams to gauge collaboration style, problem-solving approach, and cultural alignment with Olen Properties' values.

• Final Interview: A meeting with senior leadership to discuss overall fit, career aspirations, and the candidate's strategic vision for optimizing commercial spaces.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Impact: Clearly articulate the problem, your solution, and the quantifiable results (e.g., improved space utilization, cost savings, enhanced tenant satisfaction) for each project.

• Organize by Skill: Structure your portfolio to highlight specific skills such as space planning, CAD drafting, project management, and tenant improvement coordination.

• Highlight Technical Proficiency: Ensure your CAD drawings are clean, accurate, and easy to interpret. Include examples that demonstrate your ability to work with specific software like AutoCAD and Revit.

• Demonstrate Process: For project management examples, show the process from initiation to completion, including planning documents, progress reports, and budget summaries.

• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize projects that closely align with commercial office and flex-industrial spaces, and demonstrate an understanding of owner/developer requirements.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Be prepared to discuss how you would approach a typical scenario, such as designing a "test fit" for a new tenant with specific requirements, managing a budget overrun on a capital project, or resolving a conflict between a tenant and the construction team.

• Process Improvement: Think about how you would improve Olen Properties' current space planning or project management processes, drawing on your experience with software like Archibus or Serraview.

• Code Compliance: Be ready to discuss your understanding of common building codes and how they influence design decisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to thoroughly assess both technical design capabilities and practical project management skills relevant to commercial real estate operations. A well-prepared and visually compelling portfolio is essential.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Design & Planning Tools:

• AutoCAD: Essential for creating detailed 2D drawings, floor plans, and site layouts. Expect to use this extensively for "test fits" and architectural documentation.

• Revit/SketchUp: Proficiency in BIM (Building Information Modeling) software like Revit or 3D modeling software like SketchUp is highly valued for visualization and more complex design tasks.

• Microsoft Office Suite:

  • Excel: Critical for budget management, financial analysis, project tracking spreadsheets, and reporting. Advanced formula and data analysis skills are beneficial.
  • SharePoint: Used for document management, collaboration, and version control of project files and plans.
  • Word & Outlook: Standard tools for documentation, correspondence, and scheduling.

Operations & Management Tools:

• Space Management Software (Archibus/Serraview): Familiarity with these platforms is required, as they are used for optimizing space utilization, managing occupancy, and tracking facility assets.

• Project Management Software (General): While not explicitly listed, experience with any project management tool (e.g., Asana, Trello, Microsoft Project) for task management and timeline tracking would be advantageous.

• CRM (Implied): While not directly a CRM role, understanding how tenant data is managed and accessed within Olen's systems (potentially integrated with space management) is important.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Excel (Advanced): For generating reports, analyzing budget vs. actuals, and tracking key performance indicators related to projects.

• Company-Specific Reporting Tools: Likely internal dashboards or reporting mechanisms for executive updates on project status and financial performance.

Integration:

• Understanding how design and project management systems integrate with broader property management or financial systems is a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on AutoCAD, Revit/SketchUp, and specific space management software indicates a need for technically proficient individuals. Strong Excel skills are paramount for the financial and analytical aspects of the role, central to operations management.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity & Stability: As a 50-year-old company, Olen Properties likely values a strong ethical foundation and long-term commitment in its operations and employee relationships.

• Excellence in Property Management: A dedication to maintaining and developing premier commercial properties, focusing on quality, functionality, and tenant satisfaction.

• Efficiency & Optimization: A drive to maximize space utilization, improve workflows, and ensure cost-effectiveness in all development and management activities.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: The role requires strong cross-functional collaboration, suggesting a culture that values mutual support and shared success among different departments.

• Tenant-Centric Approach: Ensuring that tenant needs and strategic goals are at the forefront of space planning and project execution.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expect a collaborative environment where design, leasing, development, and construction teams work closely together, sharing information and coordinating efforts to achieve common goals.

• Open Communication: Regular meetings and reporting structures facilitate open dialogue between the project manager, tenants, consultants, and executive leadership.

• Problem-Solving Focus: A proactive approach to identifying and resolving issues that arise during the design and construction phases, often requiring input and agreement from multiple stakeholders.

• Process Improvement Culture: An openness to refining existing workflows and adopting best practices to enhance efficiency and project outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's long history suggests a culture built on reliability and quality. The collaborative nature of the role highlights the importance of strong interpersonal skills and the ability to navigate diverse stakeholder interests within the real estate development cycle.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Stakeholder Needs: Juggling the diverse and sometimes conflicting requirements of tenants, ownership, leasing teams, and construction crews to achieve optimal solutions.

• Budget & Timeline Constraints: Working within fixed financial and time parameters, requiring creative problem-solving and efficient resource management to meet project goals.

• Navigating Building Codes & Regulations: Staying current with and applying complex building codes and local ordinances to ensure compliance and avoid costly delays.

• Managing External Consultants: Effectively overseeing the work of architectural firms and other consultants to ensure quality, timeliness, and adherence to project scope and budget.

• Adapting to Evolving Tenant Demands: Keeping pace with changing workplace trends and tenant expectations for space functionality and amenities.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design & Technology Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in Revit, BIM, or new space planning software that enhance design capabilities and efficiency.

• Project Management Certifications: Support for obtaining certifications like PMP (Project Management Professional) to formalize project management skills and career progression.

• Real Estate Development Acumen: Gaining deeper insights into the financial, legal, and market aspects of commercial real estate development through direct involvement and mentorship.

• Leadership Exposure: Direct engagement with executive leadership provides invaluable experience in strategic decision-making and understanding the broader business objectives of a property development firm.

• Industry Best Practices: Continuous learning about new construction methods, sustainable design principles, and tenant experience innovations within the commercial real estate sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities to tackle complex challenges in a dynamic industry, fostering significant professional growth. The company's established presence and focus on quality suggest a supportive environment for developing specialized skills in real estate operations and project management.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to balance conflicting tenant requirements with owner's needs during a space planning project. How did you reach a resolution?" (Focus on communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills).

• "Walk me through your process for developing a 'test fit' plan. What are the key considerations and potential pitfalls?" (Demonstrate your methodical approach and understanding of design constraints).

• "How do you ensure a project stays on budget and on schedule? Provide an example of a challenge you faced and how you overcame it." (Highlight project management techniques and proactive issue resolution).

• "What is your experience with commercial building codes, and how do they influence your design decisions?" (Showcase technical knowledge and compliance awareness). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Olen Properties and our portfolio? What interests you about working with us?" (Research the company website, recent projects, and industry reputation).

• "How do you approach collaboration with construction teams and external consultants?" (Emphasize teamwork, clear communication, and relationship management).

• "Describe your experience with space management software like Archibus or Serraview. How have you used it to drive efficiency?" (Be ready to discuss specific functionalities and their impact). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure for Impact: Organize your portfolio by project type (e.g., Tenant Improvements, Capital Projects) or by skill (e.g., Space Planning, CAD, Budget Management).

• Quantify Achievements: For each project, clearly state the objectives, your role, the actions taken, and the measurable outcomes (e.g., X% space efficiency improvement, $Y cost savings, Z days ahead of schedule).

• Highlight Technical Skills: Be prepared to walk through specific CAD drawings, explaining your design choices and technical approach.

• Tell a Story: For each case study, present a narrative that showcases your problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and ability to deliver successful outcomes.

• Be Concise: Focus on your most relevant and impactful projects. Be ready to answer detailed questions about your contributions and decision-making processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of technical design skills, robust project management capabilities, and strong communication and collaboration abilities. A well-curated portfolio that showcases tangible results is paramount.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Commercial Design / Project Manager position:

• Submit Your Application: Apply directly through the provided link on Paycom.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your 2+ years of commercial space planning experience, proficiency in AutoCAD/Revit/SketchUp, and any experience with space management software or owner/builder roles. Use keywords from the job description to optimize for ATS.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a portfolio that showcases your best work in commercial space planning, CAD design, and project management. Ensure it includes clear examples of tenant improvements and quantifiable results.

• Research Olen Properties: Familiarize yourself with Olen Properties' portfolio, history, and market presence. Understand their commitment to premier commercial properties.

• Practice Your Pitch: Be ready to articulate your value proposition, focusing on how your skills in design, project management, and operations can contribute to Olen Properties' success in optimizing their commercial spaces.

⚠️ 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.