Design Manager 1, Mission Critical

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager 1, Mission Critical

Company: J.E. Dunn Construction Group Inc P

Location: Austin, TX

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Construction Operations / Project Management

Date Posted: September 10, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage design processes for complex, mission-critical construction projects, particularly those utilizing design-build or design-assist methodologies.

• Drive successful project delivery by orchestrating design teams, trade partners, and leveraging technology for coordinated and compliant design documents.

• Proactively identify and mitigate project risks and opportunities throughout the design lifecycle, ensuring alignment with project goals and contractual details.

• Foster collaborative relationships with clients, stakeholders, and internal teams to ensure conceptual plans and design deliverables meet business needs and technical requirements.

• Champion cost savings and value-added solutions during the design phase, while meticulously monitoring and controlling design partner and consultant costs.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within J.E. Dunn's Advanced Facilities Group (AFG), specifically focusing on mission-critical projects such as data centers, semiconductor facilities, and advanced industrial/manufacturing sites. The "Design Manager 1" title suggests an entry-level management position within the design management hierarchy, with a clear career path to "Design Manager 2." The emphasis on "Mission Critical" implies a need for high reliability, stringent quality control, and adherence to specialized industry codes and standards.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Interpret formal design-build RFPs and develop comprehensive work plans in collaboration with preconstruction, operations, and other key stakeholders.

• Develop conceptual plans, elevations, and 3D models to support client presentations and win strategies, aligning with potential client business needs.

• Review and understand bridging documents to ensure project compliance with RFP requirements, including in-depth comprehension of codes and criteria for technical design deliverables.

• Support early-phase due diligence activities, including professional studies and jurisdictional/permitting requirements, to inform design document development.

• Manage external design consultants, ensuring they meet both technical requirements and schedule commitments for design deliverables.

• Oversee the design review process with design teams and clients, proactively identifying project risks and opportunities while ensuring schedule adherence.

• Leverage design experience to guide project teams in identifying solutions to project-specific challenges, monitoring design schedules, quality control, and content for document delivery.

• Generate cost savings and value-added solutions during the design phase, and monitor/control the costs of design partners and consultants.

• Conduct quality control reviews of designs to ensure compliance with program specifications and life-safety requirements.

• Coordinate design document packaging strategies with the project team and manage project documentation (proposals, drawings, specifications, reports, shop drawings) using 3D and 2D file management systems.

• Develop sketches and plans to assist preconstruction with pricing conceptual ideas, and coordinate with the VDC team for implementation as needed.

• Provide technical design guidance throughout the entire construction process, including engineering support for proposal development, site surveys, equipment selection, permitting, training, and construction phases.

• Manage the project budget, ensuring design remains aligned with contractual details and steering the project accordingly.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong focus on the front-end of project delivery, from proposal interpretation and conceptualization through to detailed design coordination and quality assurance. The role requires a blend of technical design understanding, project management acumen, and strong client-facing communication skills, particularly within the specialized context of mission-critical facilities.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Engineering, or a related field is preferred.

• Equivalent relevant experience will be considered in lieu of a degree. Experience:

• 5+ years of design and/or construction management experience is preferred.

• Demonstrated cross-functional knowledge of key engineering disciplines (Architectural, Structural, MEP) and relevant trades. Required Skills:

• Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, and/or Google SketchUp for design visualization and documentation.

• Experience with U.S. building design codes and material-specific standards.

• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing (Intermediate proficiency).

• Strong presentation skills to convey technical information and project strategies.

• Intermediate proficiency with MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

• Thorough understanding of project processes and their impact on successful project completion.

• Ability to build and maintain collaborative relationships within project teams, both internally and externally.

• Intermediate proficiency in applying Lean processes and philosophy to project workflows.

• Ability to think in a highly structured manner across all design disciplines while also demonstrating creativity in developing specialized solutions.

• Ability to manage budget and schedule to maximize profitability and foster future work through relationship building. Preferred Skills:

• Experience specifically within mission-critical sectors (Data Centers, Semiconductor, Advanced Manufacturing).

• Familiarity with bridging documents and alternate delivery methods (Design-Build, Design-Assist).

• Knowledge of advanced construction technologies and Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) processes.

• Understanding of linked design disciplines such as Geotechnical/Civil, Building Façade, Vertical Transportation, Acoustics, and Fire and Life Safety.

📝 Enhancement Note: The education and experience requirements are presented with flexibility, indicating that practical experience can substitute for a formal degree. The emphasis on specific design software (AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp) and U.S. building codes points to the need for practical, hands-on technical skills. The "Intermediate" proficiency levels for communication, MS Office, and Lean principles suggest a mid-level competency expectation.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase successful management of design phases for at least one complex construction project, ideally within the mission-critical sector.

• Demonstrate your approach to coordinating multi-disciplinary design teams (Architectural, Structural, MEP, etc.) and external consultants.

• Include examples of how you've identified and mitigated design risks, managed design schedules, and ensured quality control.

• Present case studies or project examples where you contributed to cost savings or value-added solutions during the design phase.

• Illustrate your proficiency with design software (AutoCAD, Revit) through visual examples or project walkthroughs. Process Documentation:

• Provide documentation or examples of your work plans for design-build or design-assist projects.

• Showcase how you have managed project documentation, including drawings, specifications, and reports, using 3D/2D file management systems.

• Detail your methodology for conducting design review processes and quality control checks.

• Include examples of conceptual sketches or plans developed to support preconstruction pricing or client presentations.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated in the raw job description, a portfolio is crucial for a Design Manager role, especially in construction. The outlined requirements are inferred based on the core responsibilities and skills expected, emphasizing the candidate's ability to demonstrate practical application of design management principles, technical skills, and process execution in real-world project scenarios.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for Design Managers with 5-10 years of experience in Austin, TX, the estimated salary range for this role is $90,000 - $130,000 annually. This estimate considers the specialized nature of mission-critical projects and the demand for skilled professionals in the Austin construction market. Benefits:

• Professional Non-Union benefits package, as detailed in the provided link (https://www.jedunn.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Colorado-Benefit-Descriptions.pdf). This typically includes:

  • Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance

  • Paid Time Off (PTO) and Holidays

  • Retirement Savings Plan (e.g., 401k) with potential company match

  • Life and Disability Insurance

  • Professional Development and Training opportunities

  • Potential for performance-based bonuses or incentives Working Hours:

• Standard work week is likely 40 hours, but the role requires flexibility to meet project needs, which may include working non-traditional hours, evenings, weekends, or extended periods of travel.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on job title, experience level, location (Austin, TX), and industry (Construction). Compensation can vary significantly based on specific project scope, candidate qualifications, and negotiation. The benefits link provided is for Colorado, which may not be fully representative of the Austin, TX benefits package. Candidates should confirm specific benefits details with the hiring team.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction, specializing in Advanced Facilities (Mission Critical, Advanced Industries, Industrial & Manufacturing).

Company Size: J.E. Dunn Construction is a large, established construction firm, likely employing thousands of individuals across multiple locations. This size offers stability, resources, and a wide range of project opportunities.

Founded: JE Dunn Construction was founded in 1924, indicating over 100 years of industry experience, stability, and a strong legacy.

Team Structure:

• The role operates within the Advanced Facilities Group (AFG), a specialized division focusing on cutting-edge projects.

• You will collaborate closely with Preconstruction teams, Operations personnel, trade partners, and external design consultants.

• The Design Manager 1 reports to a higher-level Design Manager (e.g., Design Manager 2) or a Project Director/Executive, indicating a clear reporting hierarchy.

• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, working with architects, engineers, VDC specialists, and client representatives. Methodology:

• Emphasis on "Best People + Right Culture" as driving forces.

• Commitment to inspired people, challenging work, innovative tools, and shared rewards.

• Focus on building authentic partnerships and enriching lives through inspired people and places.

• Application of Lean processes and philosophy is expected.

• Utilization of advanced tools and technology, including 3D/2D file management systems and VDC.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's long history and emphasis on culture suggest a stable work environment that values employee development and long-term relationships. The Advanced Facilities Group focus means exposure to highly technical and complex projects, demanding a high level of precision and expertise.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is classified as "Design Manager 1," representing an early-to-mid-stage career position within the design management track. It involves significant responsibility for project design coordination and execution but under the guidance of more senior leadership.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager 1 will report to a Design Manager 2 or a senior project leader within the Advanced Facilities Group. They will, in turn, manage and guide external design consultants and coordinate closely with internal project teams.

Operations Impact: This role directly impacts project success by ensuring designs are coordinated, compliant, cost-effective, and meet client objectives. Effective design management is critical for controlling project costs, schedules, and overall quality, which are key drivers of profitability and client satisfaction for J.E. Dunn.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Career Progression: A clear path to "Design Manager 2" is indicated, involving increased project complexity, leadership scope, and client interaction. Further advancement could lead to roles like Senior Design Manager, Director of Design Management, or Project Director.

• Operations Skill Development: Opportunities to deepen expertise in mission-critical design requirements, advanced construction technologies (VDC), Lean methodologies, and alternative project delivery methods. Continuous learning in U.S. building codes and material standards is also expected.

• Operations Leadership Potential: Developing leadership skills through managing design consultants and cross-functional teams, contributing to win strategies, and influencing project outcomes. Potential to mentor junior design professionals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of "Career Path: Design Manager 2" provides a clear growth trajectory. The role is designed to build foundational management skills within the specialized context of mission-critical construction, preparing individuals for more senior roles in design and project leadership.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Primarily an on-site role, requiring presence at project sites, client offices, and potentially J.E. Dunn's local office. The nature of construction management demands on-the-ground oversight.

Office Location(s): The primary work location is Austin, TX, but the role may involve extensive travel to various project sites, especially given the "Mission Critical" and "Advanced Facilities Group" focus, which often involves large-scale, geographically dispersed projects.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will be dynamic, involving both office environments (for documentation, planning, and coordination) and active construction sites (for oversight and issue resolution).

• Access to design software (AutoCAD, Revit) and project management tools will be essential.

• Collaboration will occur frequently with internal project teams, external architects, engineers, subcontractors, and clients.

• Field visits may require adherence to safety protocols and wearing personal protective equipment (PPE).

Work Schedule: While a standard 40-hour work week is typical, the role necessitates flexibility. Project demands, deadlines, and site activities may require working non-traditional hours, including evenings, weekends, and potentially extended periods of travel to meet project needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Working Environment" section clearly indicates this is not a remote-friendly position. The need for site visits, potential travel, and flexible hours is typical for construction project management roles, especially those involving complex, high-stakes projects.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess alignment with the required education, experience, and key skills.

• Technical Interview: May involve discussions about your experience with design management, specific software proficiency (AutoCAD, Revit), knowledge of building codes, and understanding of project delivery methods like design-build. Be prepared to discuss specific projects and your role.

• Behavioral Interview: Focuses on assessing your soft skills, such as communication, collaboration, problem-solving, and leadership potential. Prepare examples using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to illustrate your capabilities.

• Portfolio Review: You will likely be asked to present examples from your portfolio showcasing your design management experience, project coordination skills, and ability to deliver value.

• Final Interview: May involve meeting with senior leadership or the hiring manager to discuss your fit with the company culture and long-term career aspirations.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Relevant Projects: Select 2-3 projects that best demonstrate your experience in design management, particularly those involving complex technical requirements or alternate delivery methods. Mission-critical project experience is a strong plus.

• Highlight Your Role: Clearly articulate your specific contributions, responsibilities, and impact on each project. Use quantifiable achievements whenever possible (e.g., "reduced design conflicts by X%," "contributed to Y% cost savings," "met all critical design milestones").

• Showcase Process: Illustrate your process for managing design teams, coordinating disciplines, conducting reviews, and mitigating risks. Visual aids like workflow diagrams or process maps can be effective.

• Demonstrate Technical Skills: Include visual examples of design documents, 3D models, or sketches that showcase your proficiency with AutoCAD, Revit, or SketchUp.

• Address Challenges: Be prepared to discuss challenges encountered on projects and how you overcame them, highlighting your problem-solving abilities and resilience.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Coordination Scenario: You might be presented with a hypothetical design challenge or a situation involving conflicting design elements and asked to propose a solution, demonstrating your structured thinking and problem-solving approach.

• Process Improvement Exercise: Be ready to discuss how you would implement or improve a specific design management process (e.g., RFI management, submittal review, quality control checks) within the context of a mission-critical project.

• Stakeholder Management Discussion: Prepare to articulate how you would manage communication and expectations with various stakeholders, including clients, internal teams, and external consultants, especially during challenging phases of design.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the role's focus on design coordination and delivery, a strong portfolio is essential. Candidates should prepare to not only discuss their experience but also demonstrate it through tangible examples of their work and their systematic approach to design management.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD/BIM Software: Proficiency in AutoCAD and Revit is explicitly required. Google SketchUp is also mentioned, suggesting its use for conceptualization or quick modeling.

• 3D & 2D File Management Systems: Experience with systems for organizing and managing project documentation, including drawings, specifications, and reports. This could include platforms like Procore, Autodesk Construction Cloud (BIM 360/ACC), or similar document management solutions.

• MS Office Suite: Essential for general business communication, reporting, and data analysis (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly listed, expect to utilize tools for budget tracking, schedule management, and potentially basic data analysis related to design progress and cost control. This might involve integrated project management software features or specialized financial tracking tools. CRM & Automation:

• While direct CRM or marketing automation tools are unlikely to be primary for this role, understanding how design inputs influence sales and preconstruction efforts (which utilize CRMs) is beneficial. Familiarity with project management platforms that automate workflows for RFIs, submittals, and change orders is expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on specific design software (AutoCAD, Revit) is critical. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience level and specific applications of these tools in managing design documentation and coordination. Proficiency in a robust document management system is also a key implied requirement.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Inspired People & Places: A core value driving JE Dunn's mission to enrich lives through their work. This translates to a focus on creating impactful, high-quality built environments.

• Best People + Right Culture: Commitment to hiring talented individuals who align with the company's collaborative and supportive culture.

• Authentic Partnerships: Emphasis on building genuine, long-term relationships with clients, trade partners, and employees.

• Innovation: Encouragement to use innovative tools and approaches to solve challenges and improve project delivery.

• Accountability & Quality: A strong focus on delivering high-quality work, managing budgets and schedules effectively, and maintaining a high standard of professionalism.

Collaboration Style:

• Team-Oriented: JE Dunn fosters a collaborative environment where team members work together towards common project goals.

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expect to work closely with various internal departments (Preconstruction, Operations, VDC) and external partners (architects, engineers, subcontractors).

• Proactive Communication: Open and honest communication is vital for managing expectations, resolving issues, and ensuring all stakeholders are informed.

• Continuous Improvement: A willingness to embrace Lean processes and suggest improvements to workflows and methodologies is valued.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's stated values emphasize a positive, collaborative, and high-performance culture. Candidates should be prepared to discuss how their personal values and work style align with these principles, particularly in the context of managing complex projects and diverse teams.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complexity of Mission-Critical Projects: Managing the intricate design requirements, stringent quality standards, and tight schedules inherent in data center, semiconductor, and advanced manufacturing facilities.

• Coordination Across Disciplines: Ensuring seamless integration of highly specialized architectural, structural, MEP, and IT/data systems designs.

• Stakeholder Management: Balancing the diverse needs and expectations of clients, internal teams, regulatory bodies, and numerous trade partners.

• Technology Adoption: Staying current with and effectively leveraging advanced design and VDC technologies to enhance project delivery.

• Site-Specific Demands: Adapting to the unique challenges and environments of various project sites, which may include remote locations or demanding construction conditions.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Deepen expertise in mission-critical design, alternate delivery methods, and advanced construction technologies through on-the-job experience and training.

• Industry Conference & Certification Participation: Opportunities to attend relevant industry events and pursue certifications that enhance professional credibility and knowledge.

• Mentorship & Leadership Development: Access to mentorship from senior design and project management professionals, coupled with opportunities to develop leadership capabilities through managing project teams and contributing to business development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges listed are typical for advanced construction roles and present significant opportunities for professional growth. Candidates who can demonstrate resilience, adaptability, and a proactive approach to problem-solving will be well-suited for this role.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your experience managing design-build or design-assist projects. What were the key challenges and how did you address them?" (Focus on your process, risk management, and collaboration.)

• "How do you ensure design documents are coordinated across multiple disciplines (Architectural, Structural, MEP) and meet RFP requirements?" (Highlight your systematic approach, use of tools, and communication strategies.)

• "Walk me through a time you identified a significant risk or opportunity during the design phase of a project. What was your approach and the outcome?" (Emphasize proactive thinking, problem-solving, and impact.)

• "How do you approach value engineering or cost-saving initiatives during the design phase without compromising quality or project goals?" (Showcase your understanding of budget management and creative solutions.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about JE Dunn's work in Advanced Facilities and Mission Critical projects?" (Research recent projects, AFG's focus, and JE Dunn's overall capabilities.)

• "How do you align with JE Dunn's values of 'Best People + Right Culture' and building 'Authentic Partnerships'?" (Prepare examples of your collaborative approach and commitment to quality and relationships.)

• "Describe your experience working with diverse teams, including internal project staff, external consultants, and clients." (Focus on communication, conflict resolution, and fostering a positive team dynamic.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project presented, clearly state the project type, your role, the key challenges, your specific actions, and the quantifiable results.

• Highlight Process & Tools: Explicitly mention how you utilized design management processes, software (AutoCAD, Revit), and collaboration techniques to achieve project objectives.

• Focus on Mission Critical Relevance: If possible, emphasize aspects of your portfolio that demonstrate an understanding of the specific demands of mission-critical environments (e.g., redundancy, uptime, specialized systems).

• Be Concise and Engaging: Aim for clarity and brevity, allowing time for Q&A. Practice your presentation to ensure a smooth and confident delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview preparation emphasizes demonstrating not just technical knowledge but also strategic thinking, problem-solving abilities, and cultural fit. A well-prepared portfolio is crucial for substantiating your experience and demonstrating your capabilities in action.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the J.E. Dunn Construction careers portal via the provided link: https://jobs.jedunn.com/job/Austin-Design-Manager-1%2C-Mission-Critical-TX-78704/1428760300/

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight experience in design management, mission-critical projects, design-build/assist methodologies, proficiency with AutoCAD and Revit, and any relevant construction management experience. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Gather relevant project examples that showcase your design coordination, risk management, cost control, and technical skills. Be ready to discuss these in detail during interviews.

• Research JE Dunn: Familiarize yourself with J.E. Dunn's Advanced Facilities Group, their mission-critical project portfolio, company values, and recent news. Understand their approach to "Best People + Right Culture."

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare answers to common interview questions, focusing on behavioral examples (STAR method) and technical scenarios related to design management and construction. Practice presenting your portfolio.

⚠️ 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.