Design Manager 2

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager 2

Company: J.E. Dunn Construction Group Inc P

Location: Nashville, TN 37210, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Design & Construction Management

Date Posted: 2026-05-27

Experience Level: 8+ Years Preferred

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearheads the successful delivery of complex construction projects by meticulously organizing design participants, processes, and technology.

• Manages the end-to-end design process, from initial business development and proposal stages through to final project completion, ensuring alignment with client needs and project goals.

• Plays a critical role in collaborative efforts with preconstruction, operations, and other key stakeholders to develop robust work plans and win strategies for Design-Build and other alternate delivery methods.

• Oversees and directs outside design consultants and trade partners, ensuring adherence to technical, schedule, and contractual requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within J.E. Dunn's Advanced Facilities Group (AFG), specializing in high-performance, cutting-edge projects within Mission Critical, Advanced Industries, and Industrial & Manufacturing sectors, including Data Centers and Semiconductor projects. This context implies a need for specialized technical knowledge and experience with complex, large-scale infrastructure.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Interpret formal Design-Build RFPs and collaborate with preconstruction, operations, and stakeholders to develop comprehensive work plans and win strategies.

• Support early-phase due diligence activities, ensuring professional studies and jurisdictional/permitting requirements are integrated into design documents.

• Manage outside design consultants and trade partners, ensuring they meet technical, schedule, and budget requirements for design deliverables.

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

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

• Drive cost savings and value-added solutions throughout the design phase, monitoring and controlling design partner/consultant costs for added scope.

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

• Coordinate design document packaging strategies with the project team and manage project documentation using 2D/3D file management systems.

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

• Provide technical design guidance and engineering support throughout the entire construction process, from proposal and site survey to permitting, training, and construction.

• Ensure the design stays within the project budget and contractual details, steering the project accordingly.

• Collaborate with the project team during the business development phase to secure new projects and proposals.

• Negotiate pricing, scopes of work, and contract terms for designers and design consultants.

• Support the pre-qualification process and selection of design professionals for Design-Build projects.

• Function as an integral part of the project team, influencing decisions that impact cost, schedule, and budget for both internal and external clients.

• Collaborate with construction operations on technical design reviews to assess constructability and quantity takeoffs, providing recommendations on construction phasing.

• Work with clients to ensure project requirements are fulfilled and expectations are met from a design perspective, providing ongoing construction feedback.

• Proactively monitor and interpret ongoing financial performance and respond appropriately.

• Initiate conversations about potential issues to foster a collaborative problem-solving environment.

• May be responsible for understanding Engineering Procurement Construction (EPC) environments, vendors, and material designers/installers for specific project execution requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Additional Core Responsibilities" section for "Design Manager 2" indicates a higher level of responsibility compared to a standard Design Manager, likely involving more strategic input, contract negotiation, and client-facing influence. This suggests a need for strong business acumen in addition to technical design expertise.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• 8+ years of design and/or construction management experience (Preferred).

• Cross-functional knowledge of key engineering disciplines (Architectural, Structural, MEP, etc.) and relevant trades.

Required Skills:

• Ability to perform work accurately, completely, and in a timely manner.

• Intermediate verbal and written communication skills.

• Ability to conduct effective presentations.

• Intermediate proficiency in MS Office Suite.

• Thorough knowledge of project processes and their contribution to successful project completion.

• Ability to build relationships and collaborate effectively within a team, both internally and externally.

• Intermediate ability to apply Lean process and philosophy.

• Proficiency with AutoCAD, Revit, and/or Google SketchUp.

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

• Conversant with linked design disciplines (e.g., Geotechnical/Civil, Architectural, Building Façade, Structural, MEP, Data/Communications, Vertical Transportation, Acoustics, and Fire and Life Safety).

• Ability to think in a highly structured manner across all design disciplines, coupled with creativity to develop specialized solutions by anticipating potential challenges.

• Ability to manage budget and schedule, maximize profitability, and generate future work through relationship building.

• Technical market expertise with knowledge of industry trends and innovations.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in the Advanced Facilities Group (AFG) sectors: Mission Critical, Advanced Industries, Industrial & Manufacturing, Data Centers, Semiconductor projects.

• Experience with Design-Build, Design Assist, or other alternate project delivery methods.

• Familiarity with Engineering Procurement Construction (EPC) environments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The listed skills emphasize a blend of technical design proficiency (AutoCAD, Revit, codes), project management capabilities (budget, schedule, risk), and strong interpersonal/communication skills essential for managing diverse stakeholders in complex construction environments. The "conversant with linked design disciplines" requirement highlights the need for a holistic understanding of building systems.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrable examples of successfully managed design processes from concept to completion, showcasing a structured approach to design development and execution.

• Case studies illustrating effective management of design consultants, including scope definition, contract negotiation, and performance oversight.

• Evidence of proactive risk identification and mitigation strategies implemented during the design phase.

• Documentation of value-engineering exercises and cost-saving initiatives undertaken during design development.

Process Documentation:

• Showcase of your ability to interpret and develop work plans from formal RFPs, particularly for Design-Build projects.

• Examples of how you have integrated jurisdictional and permitting requirements into design documents.

• Documentation of your process for managing project documentation using 2D and 3D file management systems.

• Presentation of your approach to coordinating design document packaging and delivery.

• Examples of how you have provided technical design guidance and engineering support throughout the construction lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the emphasis on managing complex projects within the Advanced Facilities Group, a portfolio should highlight experience with large-scale, technically demanding projects. Candidates should be prepared to discuss specific case studies that demonstrate their ability to navigate intricate design challenges, manage multiple disciplines, and ensure compliance with stringent industry standards and client requirements.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Professional Non-Union benefits package. Specific details are available via the provided link, but typically include:

• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance

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

• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick Leave, Holidays)

• Life Insurance and Disability Coverage

• Professional Development and Training Opportunities

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours, likely around 40 hours per week.

• Must be willing to work non-traditional hours to meet project needs, which may include evenings and weekends, especially during critical project phases.

• Extensive periods of travel may be required.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on the provided experience level, location (Nashville, TN), and the specialized nature of the role within the construction industry, particularly within the Advanced Facilities Group. Actual compensation may vary based on the candidate's specific qualifications, experience, and negotiation. The benefits link provided points to Colorado-specific benefits, which may not be fully representative of the Nashville location; candidates should verify local benefit details.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction & Engineering (Advanced Facilities focus: Mission Critical, Advanced Industries, Industrial & Manufacturing, Data Centers, Semiconductor Projects).

Company Size: Large (J.E. Dunn is a major national construction firm). This size implies robust processes, a wide range of projects, and opportunities for structured career progression.

Founded: 1924. Over 100 years of experience signifies stability, deep industry knowledge, and established practices.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager likely operates within a project-specific team structure, collaborating closely with Project Executives, Project Managers, Superintendents, Preconstruction Managers, and VDC specialists.

• The Advanced Facilities Group (AFG) is a specialized division, suggesting a team of experts focused on complex, high-stakes projects.

Methodology:

• Emphasis on "Best People + Right Culture" and "inspired people + interesting and challenging work."

• Commitment to "building perfection" and enriching lives through inspired people and places.

• Integration of innovative tools and technology.

• Adoption of Lean processes and philosophies for efficiency and continuous improvement.

• Data-driven decision-making and performance monitoring.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: J.E. Dunn's long history and stated values suggest a culture that balances traditional construction expertise with a forward-looking approach to innovation and employee development. The focus on the Advanced Facilities Group indicates a drive towards cutting-edge projects and a need for specialized technical talent.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Design Manager 2. This title suggests a mid-to-senior level role, responsible for significant project phases and requiring substantial expertise. It is a step above an entry-level or standard Design Manager, implying increased autonomy, complexity of projects managed, and leadership expectations.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will likely report to a higher-level operations or project executive within the Advanced Facilities Group. They will, in turn, manage and guide external design consultants, internal project teams, and potentially VDC coordinators. This role requires strong collaboration with various internal departments (preconstruction, operations) and external clients/partners.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct and significant impact on project success by ensuring designs are technically sound, constructible, within budget, and delivered on schedule. Effective design management is crucial for mitigating risks, maximizing profitability, and ensuring client satisfaction, which in turn drives repeat business and strengthens the company's reputation in specialized sectors like data centers and advanced manufacturing.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization Advancement: Deepen expertise within specific AFG sectors (Mission Critical, Data Centers, Semiconductor) to become a recognized subject matter expert.

• Leadership Progression: Advance to roles such as Senior Design Manager, Director of Design Management, or transition into senior project leadership positions (e.g., Project Executive) managing larger, more complex portfolios.

• Technical Skill Development: Continuous learning in areas like BIM/VDC, advanced construction technologies, and evolving design methodologies.

• Cross-functional Mobility: Opportunities to move into related roles within preconstruction, project management, or business development, leveraging a deep understanding of the design-to-construction lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Design Manager 2" title, combined with the specific requirements for managing complex projects and client relationships, points to a role with substantial growth potential. Candidates showing strong leadership, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of the construction lifecycle within specialized sectors will be well-positioned for advancement.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role involves a mix of office-based work and on-site project locations. The office environment is likely professional and collaborative, supporting project planning, documentation, and team coordination.

Office Location(s): Nashville, TN (37210) is the primary location, but the role also specifies "May require extensive periods of travel," indicating potential assignments to project sites across the country.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Expect to work closely with internal project teams (preconstruction, operations, VDC) and external stakeholders (clients, architects, engineers, trade partners). This necessitates strong interpersonal skills and the ability to foster collaborative problem-solving.

• Tools and Technology: Access to industry-standard design and project management software, including AutoCAD, Revit, Google SketchUp, and potentially advanced VDC tools. Proficiency and comfort with digital file management systems are essential.

• Team Interaction: Frequent interaction with diverse project stakeholders, requiring clear communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills. The role demands active participation in team meetings, design reviews, and client presentations.

Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time hours are expected, but this role requires flexibility. Candidates must be willing to work non-traditional hours (evenings, weekends) to meet project demands, especially during critical phases. This flexibility is typical for construction management roles on large, complex projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "extensive periods of travel" and "non-traditional hours" are key indicators of the demanding nature of this role, particularly within specialized construction sectors like Advanced Facilities. Candidates should be prepared for a dynamic work environment that may require significant time away from a primary office location.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or a hiring manager will likely review resumes and conduct a brief phone screen to assess basic qualifications and cultural fit.

• Technical Interview(s): Expect interviews with senior members of the Advanced Facilities Group, potentially including Directors of Design Management or Project Executives. These interviews will delve into your technical expertise, project management methodologies, and experience with complex construction projects.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session to present and discuss your professional portfolio. Be prepared to walk through specific case studies, detailing your role, challenges faced, solutions implemented, and the outcomes achieved. Focus on projects relevant to the AFG's work (Mission Critical, Data Centers, etc.).

• Behavioral/Situational Interview: Questions designed to assess your problem-solving abilities, leadership style, communication skills, and ability to handle pressure and ambiguity. Prepare examples using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).

• Final Interview: Potentially with a higher-level executive to confirm fit and discuss overall contribution to the organization.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Select Projects: Focus on 3-5 of your most impactful projects that align with J.E. Dunn's AFG sectors.

• Highlight Your Role: Clearly define your specific responsibilities and contributions within each project.

• Showcase Process & Methodology: Detail your approach to design management, risk mitigation, stakeholder coordination, and problem-solving. Use diagrams or flowcharts if helpful.

• Quantify Results: Present specific metrics demonstrating project success, such as cost savings, schedule adherence, risk reduction, and client satisfaction. Use numbers and data wherever possible.

• Address Challenges: Be prepared to discuss challenges encountered and how you creatively and strategically overcame them.

• Technical Proficiency: Include examples that showcase your command of design software (Revit, AutoCAD) and understanding of various engineering disciplines.

Challenge Preparation:

• Case Study Analysis: You may be given a hypothetical project scenario and asked to outline your approach to managing the design phase, identifying key risks, and proposing solutions. Practice thinking through constructability, budget, and schedule constraints.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Prepare to discuss how you would handle common design management issues, such as scope creep, consultant performance issues, or unexpected site conditions.

• Presentation Skills: Practice delivering concise, compelling presentations of your portfolio and case study analyses. Focus on clarity, engagement, and articulating your strategic thinking.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio review and potential case studies suggests that J.E. Dunn values practical, demonstrable experience. Candidates should actively prepare to showcase their project management skills and technical design acumen through detailed examples and quantifiable results.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD/BIM Software:

  • AutoCAD: Essential for 2D drafting and design.
  • Revit: Critical for Building Information Modeling (BIM), 3D design, coordination, and documentation. Proficiency is highly valued.
  • Google SketchUp: Useful for conceptual design, visualization, and quick modeling.

• Project Management Software: While not explicitly listed, familiarity with platforms like Procore, Autodesk Construction Cloud, or similar is often expected in construction management.

• File Management Systems: Proficiency with 3D and 2D file management systems for organizing project documentation.

Analytics & Reporting:

• MS Office Suite: Intermediate proficiency in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint is required for reporting, analysis, and presentations. Advanced Excel skills for cost tracking and data analysis are highly beneficial.

• VDC (Virtual Design & Construction) Tools: Collaboration with VDC teams implies familiarity with VDC processes and potentially related software for coordination and clash detection.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design and construction projects are managed within a company's CRM or project management information system (PMIS) is advantageous.

• Automation Tools: Familiarity with Lean principles suggests an appreciation for process optimization and potentially the use of tools that automate repetitive tasks within the design or project management workflows.

📝 Enhancement Note: Mastery of Revit and other BIM software is increasingly critical in the construction industry, especially for complex projects. The role's connection to VDC teams further underscores the importance of digital design and collaboration tools. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience and proficiency with these technologies.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Inspired People + Right Culture: J.E. Dunn emphasizes hiring motivated individuals who contribute positively to the company's ethos.

• Building Perfection: A commitment to high-quality craftsmanship and project delivery.

• Enriching Lives: A broader mission statement suggesting a focus on creating meaningful impact through built environments.

• Innovation: Encouragement to use innovative tools and methods.

• Collaboration: Strong emphasis on teamwork, both internally and with external partners.

• Lean Process & Philosophy: A dedication to efficiency, waste reduction, and continuous improvement in all operations.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The Design Manager must work seamlessly with preconstruction, operations, VDC, and project management teams to ensure a cohesive project lifecycle.

• Process Review & Feedback: A culture that encourages open discussion of design processes, constructability reviews, and constructive feedback between all project stakeholders.

• Knowledge Sharing: Expectation of sharing best practices, lessons learned, and technical insights across teams and projects to foster collective growth.

• Partnership Approach: Building strong relationships with external consultants, clients, and trade partners is key, fostering a collaborative environment rather than a purely transactional one.

📝 Enhancement Note: J.E. Dunn's stated values point towards a culture that values expertise, collaboration, and a commitment to excellence. The emphasis on "Lean Process & Philosophy" suggests an environment that rewards efficiency and continuous improvement, which should be reflected in how candidates present their experience.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Complex, Specialized Projects: The AFG's focus on Mission Critical, Data Centers, and Semiconductor projects presents unique technical challenges, stringent requirements, and high stakes.

• Balancing Design Intent with Constructability & Budget: Ensuring that innovative design visions are realized while remaining within budget constraints and being practically constructible requires constant negotiation and creative problem-solving.

• Coordinating Multiple Disciplines and Stakeholders: Effectively managing diverse teams of architects, engineers, consultants, and trade partners, each with their own priorities and expertise, demands exceptional communication and leadership.

• Adapting to Evolving Technologies: Staying current with advancements in design software, BIM, VDC, and construction technologies is crucial for maintaining competitiveness and delivering cutting-edge projects.

• Travel and Non-Traditional Hours: The requirement for extensive travel and willingness to work non-traditional hours can be a personal challenge for work-life balance.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Deepen expertise in areas such as advanced BIM coordination, Lean construction methodologies, risk management for complex projects, and specialized sector knowledge (e.g., data center design standards).

• Industry Conference & Certification Participation: Opportunities to attend industry events, workshops, and pursue certifications relevant to construction management and specialized design fields.

• Operations Mentorship & Leadership Development: Access to mentorship from experienced leaders within J.E. Dunn, along with formal leadership training programs to prepare for advanced roles.

• Exposure to Cutting-Edge Projects: Gaining hands-on experience with some of the most technologically advanced construction projects in the country.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are inherent to high-level roles in specialized construction sectors. Candidates who can articulate how they have successfully navigated similar complexities and demonstrated a proactive approach to continuous learning will be highly valued.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for interpreting a Design-Build RFP and developing a work plan. How do you ensure alignment with preconstruction and operations?" (Focus on structured approach, stakeholder engagement, and risk assessment.)

• "Walk me through a challenging project where you had to manage multiple design consultants. What were the key challenges, how did you resolve them, and what was the outcome?" (Prepare a STAR method example highlighting leadership, problem-solving, and communication.)

• "How do you balance design intent with constructability and budget constraints? Provide an example of a value-engineering solution you implemented." (Emphasize analytical thinking, cost-consciousness, and creative solutions.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about J.E. Dunn, and specifically our Advanced Facilities Group?" (Research AFG projects and company values; articulate alignment.)

• "How do you embody J.E. Dunn's values of 'Inspired People + Right Culture' and 'Building Perfection' in your work?" (Provide concrete examples of your collaborative style and commitment to quality.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly outline the scope, your specific role, the design challenges, your strategic approach, the solutions implemented, and the quantifiable results (cost savings, schedule adherence, risk mitigation).

• Visual Aids: Utilize diagrams, timelines, and high-quality images (where permissible) to illustrate your points. Ensure any sensitive client information is redacted.

• Focus on Impact: Emphasize how your contributions directly impacted project success, profitability, and client satisfaction.

• Be Ready for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about your technical decisions, risk management strategies, and stakeholder management techniques.

• Tailor to AFG: Highlight projects relevant to Mission Critical, Data Centers, or Advanced Manufacturing if possible, demonstrating specialized expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of the design-to-construction lifecycle, strong project management acumen, and the ability to lead complex, technically demanding projects within specialized sectors. Quantifiable achievements and clear examples of problem-solving are critical.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager 2 position:

• Submit your application through the J.E. Dunn Construction careers portal via the provided link.

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight experience in Design Management, construction management, specific software proficiencies (Revit, AutoCAD), knowledge of building codes, and experience with projects relevant to the Advanced Facilities Group (Mission Critical, Data Centers, etc.). Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a selection of your most relevant projects, focusing on demonstrating your ability to manage complex designs, coordinate multiple disciplines, control budgets and schedules, and mitigate risks. Be ready to present specific case studies and quantify your achievements.

• Research J.E. Dunn: Familiarize yourself with the company's history, values, and recent projects, particularly within the Advanced Facilities Group. Understand their culture and commitment to "Inspired People + Right Culture" and "Building Perfection."

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare answers to common behavioral and technical questions, using the STAR method for behavioral examples. Practice articulating your project management strategies and portfolio highlights concisely and effectively.

⚠️ 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.