Design Build Deputy Design Manager (Special Projects)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Build Deputy Design Manager (Special Projects)

Company: KPFF Consulting Engineers

Location: Seattle, Washington, USA

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Transportation Engineering / Project Management

Date Posted: October 02, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years (Mid-Senior Level)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Support the comprehensive coordination of multi-disciplinary design-build projects, with a focus on complex fish passage, roadway, and transportation improvements, ensuring seamless integration of all engineering elements.

• Manage and oversee project scope, schedule, design deliverables, and quality control throughout the project lifecycle, from initial concept through construction completion.

• Lead the review of technical specifications, contract documents, and cost estimates, while actively managing design risk during the construction phase to ensure adherence to budget and quality standards.

• Foster and maintain exceptional client relationships by acting as a trusted advisor, providing expert guidance, and delivering tailored solutions that align with client objectives and exceed expectations.

• Mentor and develop junior engineering staff, fostering a collaborative team environment that promotes professional growth and enhances overall team capabilities in design-build project delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a Deputy Design Manager within a specialized "Special Projects Group" focusing on design-build initiatives. The emphasis on "Special Projects" and "Design-Build Deputy Design Manager" suggests a senior role requiring a blend of technical engineering expertise, robust project management capabilities, and a strong understanding of alternative delivery methods, particularly within the transportation sector. The need for a PE license in Washington and experience with DOT projects further solidifies its senior and specialized nature.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Coordinate with complementary disciplines including roadway, drainage, structural, traffic, public involvement, and environmental engineering to ensure cohesive design integration.

• Provide technical preparation and supervision for roadway and transit design tasks, including rigorous quality reviews to ensure compliance with project specifications and industry standards.

• Manage project scope, schedule, design processes, and overall quality, proactively identifying and addressing potential issues.

• Review and prepare technical specifications, contract documents, and detailed cost estimates, ensuring accuracy and completeness.

• Lead and execute post-design construction-related tasks, such as Non-Compliance Declarations (NCDs), Final Design Changes (FDCs), and Requests for Information (RFIs), and manage contractor proposals (PCOs).

• Implement rigid cost control measures to ensure the approved design is delivered within established budget constraints.

• Assess project risks and develop effective mitigation strategies to contribute to overall project success and minimize potential disruptions.

• Conduct site visits and field inspections as required to verify compliance with project requirements, safety protocols, and quality standards.

• Mentor and guide team members, supporting their professional development and fostering a culture of continuous learning and skill enhancement.

• Engage actively with clients, understanding their needs, providing clear communication, and offering expert guidance to build and maintain strong, trusting relationships.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a senior-level role focused on the execution and management of design-build projects. The inclusion of tasks like NDCs, FDCs, RFIs, and PCOs points to a direct involvement in the construction phase, requiring a strong understanding of contract administration and construction means and methods. The emphasis on risk assessment and mitigation, cost control, and quality assurance highlights the critical operational and management aspects of this position.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering. Experience:

• Minimum of 8 years of civil design and management experience.

• 5+ years of experience specifically on large Department of Transportation (DOT) projects.

• Proven capability to work dynamically and effectively in a collaborative environment.

• Demonstrated enthusiasm for developing design and project management skills.

• Commitment to delivering exceptional client service and exceeding expectations. Required Skills:

• Professional Engineer (PE) license in the State of Washington or ability to obtain reciprocity.

• Expertise in civil design principles and engineering practices.

• Strong project management skills, including scope, schedule, and budget management.

• Comprehensive understanding of design-build project delivery methods.

• Proficiency in coordinating multi-disciplinary engineering teams.

• Ability to review and develop technical specifications and contract documents.

• Experience with DOT project requirements and processes.

• Excellent teamwork, communication (written and verbal), and interpersonal skills.

• Demonstrated problem-solving abilities and strategic thinking. Preferred Skills:

• Strong knowledge of construction means, methods, and techniques.

• Familiarity with WSDOT Standard Plans, Standard Specifications, and Design Manual.

• Experience delivering alternative project delivery procurements for WSDOT, Sound Transit, or similar agencies.

• Experience working with contractors active in the Puget Sound Region.

• DBIA Professional certification.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a PE license in Washington and extensive experience with DOT projects, particularly WSDOT and Sound Transit, are critical qualifications. The preference for DBIA certification and experience with local contractors indicates a strong focus on practical, regional design-build execution within the transportation sector.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Documented experience in managing the full lifecycle of design-build projects, from proposal to closeout, showcasing successful outcomes.

• Case studies demonstrating effective coordination across multiple engineering disciplines (e.g., roadway, structural, drainage, traffic) on complex infrastructure projects.

• Examples of technical specifications, contract document reviews, and cost estimates developed or managed, highlighting accuracy and adherence to standards.

• Evidence of risk assessment and mitigation strategies implemented on past projects, detailing challenges and successful resolutions.

• Demonstrations of client management and communication strategies, illustrating how strong relationships were built and maintained throughout project execution. Process Documentation:

• Showcase a systematic approach to quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) processes for design deliverables and construction oversight.

• Detail methodologies used for managing project scope, schedule adherence, and budget control, including any reporting or tracking systems employed.

• Provide examples of how change orders, RFIs, and other contractual communications were managed and documented during the construction phase.

• Illustrate experience with process optimization techniques to improve efficiency and reduce costs in design and construction phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, a portfolio should highlight not just technical design but also the management and coordination aspects crucial for design-build. Emphasis should be placed on demonstrating experience with the specific documentation and processes required during the construction phase of DOT projects, as well as evidence of strong client and contractor relationship management.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• The estimated base salary range for this position is $150,000 - $200,000 annually. This range is competitive and will be determined based on the candidate's experience, education, skills, and location. Benefits:

• Retirement: 401(k) retirement savings plan with employer contribution (regardless of employee contribution).

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical insurance (two plans available), dental insurance, and vision insurance.

• Wellness: Health Savings Account (HSA) with employer contribution and Healthcare/Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA).

• Life & Disability: Life insurance, short-term disability insurance, and long-term disability insurance.

• Paid Time Off: Generous paid holidays (including two floating holidays), paid time off (vacation, sick, jury duty), and KPFF Paid Family Leave.

• Professional Development: Professional development education opportunities, mentorship program, and professional licensure recognition program.

• Work-Life Balance: Hybrid work environment, monthly social events, winter parties, summer picnics, and office committee opportunities.

• Community: Participation in community projects.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time work week, typically 40 hours. The hybrid work environment offers flexibility in balancing office and remote work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range of $150,000-$200,000 is explicitly stated and aligns with the senior-level experience and specialized nature of this role in a high-cost-of-living area like Seattle. The benefits package is comprehensive, indicating a strong commitment to employee well-being and professional growth, which is attractive to experienced engineering professionals.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering Consulting (Specializing in Transportation, Infrastructure, and Special Projects).

Company Size: KPFF Consulting Engineers has over 1,500 professionals in 36 offices nationwide, indicating a large, established firm with a significant presence. The Special Projects Division specifically has over 150 team members in three offices.

Founded: Over 60 years of experience, with the Special Projects Division established in 1996. This long history suggests stability, deep expertise, and a proven track record.

Team Structure:

• The Special Projects Group operates with dedicated project managers and a skilled technical team, emphasizing collaboration.

• The company structure is decentralized, offering significant flexibility and opportunities for professional growth.

• This role reports to a Design Manager within the Special Projects Group. Methodology:

• KPFF is committed to "Excellence, Trust, Relationships, Stability, and Passion."

• They focus on providing creative solutions for diverse projects and scales.

• The Special Projects Division emphasizes innovation and problem-solving for unique, multi-disciplinary challenges.

• A strong emphasis is placed on collaboration with clients and agencies like WSDOT, Sound Transit, and various municipalities.

Company Website: kpff.com

📝 Enhancement Note: KPFF's company culture is characterized by a blend of large-firm stability and decentralized flexibility. The "Special Projects Group" likely operates with a degree of autonomy, focusing on complex, niche projects. The core values of Excellence, Trust, Relationships, Stability, and Passion are central to their operations and client interactions, which is crucial for a role involving significant client and contractor engagement.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is for a mid-to-senior level professional, functioning as a Deputy Design Manager. It requires significant prior experience in civil design and project management, with a focus on design-build delivery methods within the transportation sector. The position involves both technical oversight and project leadership responsibilities.

Reporting Structure: The Deputy Design Manager will report to the Design Manager within the Special Projects Group. They will also be responsible for mentoring and potentially supervising junior engineers and design staff. Collaboration with other disciplines, contractors, and clients is a key aspect of the role.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct impact on the successful delivery of critical infrastructure projects. By ensuring efficient design, robust project management, and strong client relationships, the Deputy Design Manager contributes to KPFF's reputation, profitability, and ability to secure future work, especially in the competitive design-build market for transportation projects. They are instrumental in managing project risks and ensuring projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to advance to Design Manager, Senior Design Manager, or Principal Engineer roles within the Special Projects Group or other divisions.

• Specialization Deepening: Opportunities to further specialize in complex design-build methodologies, specific infrastructure types (e.g., fish passage, advanced transit systems), or alternative project delivery methods.

• Professional Development: Access to ongoing training, mentorship, and support for obtaining advanced certifications (like DBIA Professional) and continuing education to stay abreast of industry best practices and emerging technologies.

• Client Relationship Management: Developing into a key client relationship manager and trusted advisor for major public agencies and private entities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path for this role is clearly defined within specialized project management and design leadership for complex infrastructure. The emphasis on "Special Projects" and "Design-Build" suggests a niche but high-impact career track within KPFF.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is described as having a "Hybrid work environment," indicating a mix of in-office and remote work. The "office setting" is described as standard, implying typical office amenities and infrastructure.

Office Location(s): Seattle or Tacoma, Washington. These locations are part of the Puget Sound Region, a hub for significant transportation infrastructure projects.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role requires working dynamically and effectively in a collaborative environment, suggesting open office layouts or team-based work structures.

• Operations Tools: Access to standard engineering design software, project management tools, and office technology is expected.

• Team Interaction: Frequent interaction with the immediate project team, other engineering disciplines, clients, and contractors is a core part of the daily work.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is likely 40 hours per week, with the hybrid arrangement offering flexibility. Occasional travel to project sites or client meetings is also part of the role.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the work environment is a key aspect for attracting talent. The office locations in Seattle/Tacoma place the role within a region with significant ongoing infrastructure development, offering ample project opportunities and challenges.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and qualifications to assess minimum requirements (PE license, years of experience, DOT project history).

• Technical Interview: Discussion focused on civil design principles, design-build methodologies, project management techniques, and experience with WSDOT/DOT projects. Expect questions on technical specifications, contract administration, and risk management.

• Behavioral/Situational Interview: Assessment of teamwork, communication, client service, problem-solving skills, and leadership potential. Questions will likely probe how candidates handle challenging situations, manage teams, and interact with stakeholders.

• Portfolio Review (Potential): Candidates may be asked to present specific examples from their portfolio showcasing their design-build project experience, technical contributions, and project management successes.

• Final Interview: May involve meeting with senior leadership or the Design Manager to discuss overall fit, career aspirations, and final alignment with the role and company culture.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Design-Build Successes: Focus on projects delivered using design-build or other alternative delivery methods. Quantify achievements with metrics (e.g., cost savings, schedule improvements, successful risk mitigation).

• Showcase Multi-Disciplinary Coordination: Include examples of how you effectively coordinated with various engineering disciplines on complex projects.

• Demonstrate Contract & Risk Management: Present specific instances where you managed technical specifications, contract documents, RFIs, PCOs, and mitigated project risks.

• Emphasize Client & Contractor Relations: Provide examples of how you built and maintained strong relationships with clients and contractors, resolving issues collaboratively.

• Structure for Clarity: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or responsibility area, with clear descriptions and visual aids where appropriate.

Challenge Preparation:

• WSDOT/DOT Standards: Be prepared to discuss your familiarity with WSDOT design manuals, standard plans, and specifications.

• Design-Build Scenarios: Think through hypothetical scenarios related to managing design-build projects, such as resolving conflicts between design and construction, handling scope changes, or addressing unexpected site conditions.

• Leadership & Mentorship: Prepare examples of how you have mentored junior staff or led teams to achieve project goals.

• Problem-Solving: Anticipate questions requiring you to outline your systematic approach to solving complex engineering or project management challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role will likely be rigorous, focusing on both technical depth in transportation engineering and design-build project management, as well as leadership and client-facing skills. A well-prepared portfolio showcasing relevant design-build experience is crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Experience with tools like MS Project, Primavera P6, or similar for scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking on large infrastructure projects.

• Design Software: Familiarity with AutoCAD, Civil 3D, or Bentley MicroStation for civil design and drafting.

• Collaboration Platforms: Proficiency in platforms like Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, or similar for team communication, document sharing, and project collaboration.

• Contract Management Systems: Experience with systems or processes for managing contracts, change orders, RFIs, and submittals.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Cost Estimating Software: Familiarity with tools used for developing and managing project cost estimates.

• Reporting Dashboards: Ability to interpret and potentially contribute to project performance dashboards that track key metrics like schedule adherence, budget variance, and risk status.

• Data Analysis Tools: Basic proficiency in Excel for data manipulation and analysis related to project performance.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM (Client Relationship Management): While not a direct sales role, understanding client relationship management principles and potentially using CRM-like features for tracking client interactions and project history.

• Workflow Automation: Awareness of how workflow automation can streamline processes like RFI management, submittal reviews, or internal approvals, though direct experience with specific automation tools might be less critical than understanding the principles.

• Document Management Systems: Experience with robust document control systems for managing project documentation (drawings, specifications, reports, correspondence).

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack emphasizes tools critical for large-scale civil engineering design and project management, particularly within the DOT/design-build context. Proficiency in industry-standard project management and design software is expected.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence: A commitment to high-quality design and project delivery, meeting and exceeding client expectations.

• Trust: Building reliable relationships with colleagues, clients, and contractors through integrity and dependable performance.

• Relationships: Fostering strong, long-term connections with clients, partners, and team members through effective communication and collaboration.

• Stability: Contributing to a stable and reputable engineering firm with a long history of successful project delivery.

• Passion: Demonstrating enthusiasm for engineering challenges, innovation, and making a tangible impact on infrastructure development.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Encouraging seamless collaboration between civil, structural, traffic, and environmental disciplines, as well as with construction partners.

• Proactive Communication: Emphasizing open and frequent communication channels to ensure all stakeholders are informed and aligned.

• Problem-Solving Focus: A culture that actively seeks solutions to complex engineering and project management challenges through collective effort and expertise.

• Mentorship and Development: A supportive environment where experienced professionals guide and develop junior staff, fostering a continuous learning culture.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's core values are deeply integrated into their operational approach, influencing how teams collaborate, manage projects, and interact with clients. This role requires embodying these values to be successful.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complexity of Design-Build: Navigating the inherent complexities of design-build projects, balancing design innovation with construction feasibility and contractor input.

• Multi-Disciplinary Coordination: Effectively managing and integrating the work of numerous specialized engineering disciplines to achieve a cohesive final product.

• Risk Management in DOT Projects: Identifying and mitigating risks associated with large-scale public transportation projects, which often involve stringent regulations, public scrutiny, and evolving requirements.

• Client and Stakeholder Management: Balancing the diverse needs and expectations of public agencies, contractors, and internal teams to ensure project alignment and satisfaction.

• Rapid Evolving Technologies: Staying current with advancements in engineering design software, construction methods, and project management technologies.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design-Build Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in alternative project delivery methods through internal training and external certifications (e.g., DBIA).

• Complex Project Exposure: Working on high-profile, technically challenging special projects that offer significant learning experiences and portfolio-building opportunities.

• Mentorship from Senior Leaders: Access to guidance from experienced Design Managers and Principals within KPFF's Special Projects Division.

• Professional Licensure Support: Company support for maintaining PE licensure and potentially pursuing other relevant certifications.

• Leadership Skill Development: Opportunities to hone leadership, team management, and client relationship skills through hands-on project experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant opportunities for growth by tackling complex challenges within a specialized area of engineering project management. The company's structure and focus on professional development provide a strong foundation for career advancement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex design-build project you managed. What were the key challenges, how did you overcome them, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on your role in coordination, risk management, and problem-solving.)

• "How do you approach managing the balance between design requirements and contractor input in a design-build environment?" (Highlight your understanding of collaboration and contractual frameworks.)

• "Walk me through your process for reviewing technical specifications and contract documents for a large DOT project." (Demonstrate your attention to detail and understanding of contractual obligations.)

• "Describe a situation where you had to manage conflicting priorities or stakeholder expectations on a project. How did you resolve it?" (Assess your communication, negotiation, and decision-making skills.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about KPFF's Special Projects Division and its work in the Puget Sound region?" (Show your research and interest in their specific niche.)

• "How do your personal values align with KPFF's core values of Excellence, Trust, Relationships, Stability, and Passion?" (Connect your work ethic and approach to their stated values.)

• "How do you contribute to a collaborative team environment and mentor junior engineers?" (Demonstrate your teamwork and leadership capabilities.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Quantify Achievements: For each project example, clearly state the scale of the project, your specific role, and quantifiable results (e.g., budget adherence, schedule milestones met, risk averted).

• Focus on Design-Build Elements: Select projects that best showcase your experience with design-build or similar alternative delivery methods, highlighting coordination between design and construction.

• Illustrate Problem-Solving: Be ready to deep-dive into a specific challenge encountered on a project and detail your systematic approach to resolving it.

• Client Communication Examples: Prepare to discuss how you managed client expectations, provided updates, and built rapport throughout a project.

• Visual Aids: If possible, use visual aids (charts, diagrams, photos) to illustrate project scope, complexity, and outcomes, but keep it concise and focused on your contributions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should heavily focus on design-build specifics, WSDOT project experience, and demonstrating leadership and client management skills. A strong understanding of KPFF's values and special projects focus will be beneficial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Build Deputy Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on SmartRecruiters.

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight your 8+ years of civil design and management experience, specifically emphasizing your 5+ years on large DOT projects and any design-build project experience. Use keywords from the job description such as "Design-Build," "WSDOT," "Project Management," "Civil Design," and "PE License."

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Gather examples of your work that demonstrate your experience in design-build project coordination, technical specification review, risk management, and client relationship building. Be ready to discuss these in detail.

• Research KPFF: Understand KPFF's core values, their Special Projects Division's focus, and their role in the Seattle/Tacoma region's infrastructure development. This will help you tailor your answers and showcase your cultural fit.

• Practice Interview Questions: Rehearse your answers to common interview questions, focusing on behavioral examples that showcase your leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills within a project management 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.