Design Manager 2, Industrial Manufacturing Construction

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager 2, Industrial Manufacturing Construction

Company: J.E. Dunn Construction Group Inc P

Location: Dallas, TX

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Construction Operations / Project Management

Date Posted: 2026-09-10

Experience Level: 8+ Years (Preferred 10+)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the successful delivery of industrial and manufacturing construction projects through meticulous management of design participants, processes, and technology.

• Drive proactive management of the design process from initial business development and conceptualization through final project completion, ensuring alignment with client business needs.

• Oversee and manage the scope of work, schedule, and budget for various design packages, including Front End Loading and Process Planning.

• Coordinate effectively with internal engineering disciplines (electrical, mechanical, process/chemical, structural) and external design partners/trade partners to resolve complex design challenges and ensure project success.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is critical for managing the intricate design and engineering aspects of industrial and manufacturing construction projects. The focus on industrial/manufacturing facilities, including process planning and equipment procurement, signifies a specialized need within construction operations, requiring a blend of engineering acumen and project management expertise. The "Design Manager 2" title suggests a mid-to-senior level position with significant autonomy and a clear career path towards a Senior Design Manager role.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

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

• Support business development by creating conceptual plans, elevations, and 3D models to aid in client presentations and win strategies, demonstrating a deep understanding of client business needs.

• Review and comprehend bridging documents to ensure project compliance with RFPs, including a thorough understanding of relevant codes and criteria to meet technical design deliverables.

• Conduct early-phase due diligence activities with clients and stakeholders to incorporate professional studies and jurisdictional/permitting requirements into design documents.

• Manage outside design consultants, ensuring they adhere to technical requirements and meet schedule deadlines for design deliverables.

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

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

• Generate cost savings and identify value-added solutions during the design phase, contributing to project profitability and client satisfaction.

• Monitor and control costs associated with design partners and consultants, managing both project costs and design service costs for added scope.

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

• Coordinate design document packaging strategies with the project team, ensuring seamless integration of all design elements.

• Manage project documentation, including proposals, drawings, specifications, reports, calculations, and shop drawings, utilizing both 3D and 2D file management systems.

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

• Provide technical design guidance throughout the entire construction process, from proposal to startup.

• Offer design engineering support for the full project lifecycle: proposal, site survey, engineering, equipment selection, permitting, training, and construction.

• Understand and manage the project budget, steering the project to ensure the design remains aligned with contractual details and financial objectives.

• Review, negotiate, and manage owner and design partner contracts, ensuring favorable terms and clear scope definitions.

• Collaborate with Design Partner Leads and Management to define project scope, develop design concepts, allocate tasks, and align staff capabilities with project requirements, establishing effective communication channels.

• Lead and coordinate meetings, establishing clear design document flow and document control with all involved parties, including clients, construction management, trade partners, and regulatory agencies.

• Develop comprehensive project budgets and work schedules as key monitoring tools, proactively adjusting plans to align with budgetary and scheduling goals.

• Prepare the project execution plan, establish control procedures, monitor progress, and implement corrective actions as required.

• Follow established change management procedures to document and obtain authorization for project change orders promptly.

• Lead and facilitate client contact and business development activities, fostering strong client relationships.

• Perform field verifications and site walks to identify, verify, resolve, and incorporate solutions into design packages, actively troubleshooting complex design problems in the field during construction.

• 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 throughout the project lifecycle that impact cost, schedule, and budget.

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

• Ensure client project requirements are fulfilled and expectations are met from a design perspective.

• Provide ongoing construction feedback to the client and hold architects/design partners accountable for delivering on project strategy.

• Monitor and interpret ongoing financial performance and respond appropriately to maintain project profitability.

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

• Understand Engineering Procurement Construction (EPC) environments, vendors, and material designers/installers for project execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities are extensive, covering the full lifecycle from business development and RFP interpretation to construction feedback and EPC environments. The emphasis on industrial/manufacturing specific tasks like "Front End Loading," "Process Planning," "HVAC system upgrades," and "process equipment installations" highlights the specialized nature of this role within construction operations. The dual focus on "Core" and "Additional Core" responsibilities suggests a structured approach to role definition, ensuring all critical aspects of design management are covered.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Engineering, or a related field (Required). Experience:

• 8+ years of design and/or construction management experience (Preferred, with AI indicating 10+ years).

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

• Proven experience in managing projects from conceptual design through construction, working effectively with both internal and external partners. Required Skills:

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

• Strong understanding of U.S. building design codes and material-specific standards.

• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with intermediate proficiency.

• Thorough knowledge of project processes and how each phase supports successful project completion.

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

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

• Ability to think in a highly structured manner across all design disciplines while also possessing creativity to develop specialized solutions and anticipate challenges.

• Skill in managing budgets and schedules to maximize profitability and generate future work through relationship building.

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

• Proficiency in MS Office Suite with intermediate capabilities.

• Ability to conduct effective presentations. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with industrial, advanced technology, or high-tech manufacturing facility design.

• Experience with Front End Loading (FEL) or comprehensive project planning methodologies.

• Experience with Lean Construction principles and practices.

• Conversant with a wide range of design disciplines, including Geotechnical/Civil, Architecture, Building Façade, Structural, MEP, Data/Communications, Vertical Transportation, Acoustics, and Fire and Life Safety.

• Technical market expertise with up-to-date knowledge of industry trends and innovations.

• Ability to build strong, lasting relationships with team members that extend beyond a single project.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a Bachelor's degree in a technical field (architecture or engineering) is standard for a Design Manager. The AI's inference of 10+ years of experience, coupled with the explicit "8+ years preferred," suggests that candidates with more extensive backgrounds will be highly competitive. The emphasis on specific software (AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp) and a broad understanding of various engineering disciplines is crucial for effective cross-functional coordination in complex industrial projects. The preference for industrial/manufacturing specific experience and Lean Construction is a key differentiator for this role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 2-3 complex industrial or manufacturing construction projects managed from concept to completion, highlighting the candidate's role in design oversight.

• Demonstrate successful management of project budgets and schedules, with clear metrics on cost savings, value engineering contributions, and adherence to timelines.

• Provide examples of design document management, including proficiency in utilizing 3D and 2D file management systems and ensuring compliance with codes and specifications.

• Include case studies that detail problem-solving approaches to complex design challenges, illustrating innovative solutions and their impact on project outcomes. Process Documentation:

• Document the process for interpreting design-build RFPs and developing work plans, including stakeholder collaboration and risk identification.

• Illustrate the workflow for managing outside design consultants, from selection and contract negotiation to performance monitoring and deliverable assurance.

• Present a methodology for conducting design reviews and quality control checks, ensuring adherence to technical requirements, life-safety standards, and client expectations.

• Detail the process for change management, including documentation, authorization, and integration of approved changes into project plans.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role, especially at Level 2, a portfolio is essential. It should not just list projects but demonstrate how the candidate managed design processes, resolved issues, and contributed to project success, particularly within the industrial/manufacturing sector. The emphasis on process documentation in the portfolio should align with the responsibilities outlined, showing a structured and methodical approach to design management.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for Design Manager 2 roles in Dallas, TX, with 8-10+ years of experience in construction management and specialized industrial/manufacturing experience, the estimated salary range is $110,000 - $140,000 annually. This estimate considers the complexity of the role, the specialized industry focus, and the cost of living in the Dallas metropolitan area. Benefits:

• Professional Non-Union Benefits Package: This typically includes comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.

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

• Paid Time Off (PTO): Including vacation days, sick leave, and holidays.

• Life and Disability Insurance: Standard offerings for employee protection.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses or incentives.

• Professional Development Opportunities: Support for continued learning and career growth. Working Hours:

• Standard workweek is 40 hours.

• Willingness to work non-traditional hours to meet project needs, which is common in construction.

• Potential for extensive travel may impact daily work patterns.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on typical compensation for similar roles in a major metropolitan area like Dallas, considering the specified experience level and industry. J.E. Dunn Construction is a large, established firm, so a competitive benefits package is expected. The mention of "Professional Non-Union" benefits is a key detail for candidates.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction, Commercial & Industrial Building. JE Dunn is a significant player in the construction industry, known for its broad range of project types, including industrial, manufacturing, healthcare, education, and commercial facilities. Their focus on "inspired people and places" suggests a culture that values employee contribution and impactful projects.

Company Size: Large (Over 10,000 employees globally, based on LinkedIn data). This indicates a stable, well-established organization with robust internal processes and resources. For operations professionals, this means opportunities for structured career paths, access to advanced tools and systems, and potential for cross-functional exposure.

Founded: 1924. With over 100 years of history, JE Dunn has a strong legacy and deep experience in the construction sector, suggesting stability, a proven track record, and established methodologies.

Team Structure:

• Operations professionals likely work within project teams, reporting to a Project Executive or Senior Project Manager, with direct interaction with Site Superintendents, Foremen, and the Preconstruction team.

• The Design Manager role sits at the intersection of design consultants, trade partners, and the internal construction operations team, requiring strong collaboration across diverse functional groups.

• Expect a matrixed reporting structure where the Design Manager has functional responsibility for design delivery while also being accountable to specific project leadership. Methodology:

• JE Dunn emphasizes a culture of "Best People + Right Culture," focusing on hiring inspired individuals, providing challenging work, and enabling them with innovative tools.

• The company promotes sustainable growth and encourages employees to share in the company's rewards.

• A commitment to "enriching lives through inspired people and places" suggests a focus on quality, community impact, and employee well-being.

• The mention of "Lean process and philosophy" indicates an adoption of efficient, waste-reducing methodologies in project execution.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Understanding JE Dunn's long history and commitment to culture is vital. For operations roles, this means a company that likely values process, collaboration, and long-term employee development. The "Best People + Right Culture" slogan is a strong indicator of their hiring and management philosophy.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is classified as "Design Manager 2," indicating a mid-to-senior level position. It requires significant autonomy and decision-making within defined limits, with a clear career progression path to "Senior Design Manager." This level implies responsibility for managing complex design aspects of substantial projects and mentoring junior team members.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will report to senior project leadership (e.g., Project Executive, Senior Project Manager) while collaborating extensively with various internal teams (preconstruction, operations) and external stakeholders (design consultants, trade partners, clients). This requires strong communication and influence skills.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager directly impacts project profitability, schedule adherence, and quality outcomes by ensuring the design is constructible, cost-effective, and meets all client requirements. Their ability to proactively identify and resolve design challenges is crucial for mitigating risks and ensuring successful project delivery.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Clear path to Senior Design Manager, potentially leading larger and more complex industrial/manufacturing projects, and taking on greater leadership responsibilities within the design management function.

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific industrial sectors (e.g., advanced technology, high-tech manufacturing) or specialized design areas (e.g., process engineering, MEP systems).

• Cross-Functional Development: Exposure to various facets of construction operations, preconstruction, business development, and project finance, fostering a holistic understanding of the construction lifecycle.

• Mentorship and Training: Potential to mentor junior design coordinators or project engineers, and access to company-sponsored training programs focused on leadership, technical skills, and Lean construction methodologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Design Manager 2" designation is a strong indicator of a career-track position. The growth opportunities highlight a structured development path within JE Dunn, appealing to ambitious operations professionals looking for long-term career advancement in specialized construction sectors.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is primarily on-site, requiring presence at project locations or the company's Dallas office. This is typical for construction management roles where hands-on oversight and collaboration are paramount.

Office Location(s): Dallas, TX. This specific location implies working on projects within the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex and potentially surrounding regions.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Expect a dynamic, team-oriented workspace that fosters close collaboration with project managers, superintendents, engineers, architects, and trade partners.

• Tools and Technology: Access to industry-standard design software (AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp), project management platforms, and potentially VDC (Virtual Design and Construction) tools.

• Field Integration: Significant time may be spent on project sites, requiring adaptability to different environments and close interaction with field teams.

Work Schedule:

• While a standard 40-hour workweek is the baseline, the role demands flexibility. "Willing to work non-traditional hours to meet project needs" is a critical aspect, common during critical project phases, construction deadlines, or for site visits. Travel is also a possibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature of this role is a key characteristic. Operations professionals in construction must be comfortable with site visits, varying conditions, and a schedule that can fluctuate based on project demands.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or a hiring manager will review applications and resumes for basic qualifications.

• Technical Interview: Expect in-depth discussions about your design management experience, project examples, technical skills (software, codes), and understanding of industrial/manufacturing construction processes. This is where your portfolio will be heavily scrutinized.

• Behavioral Interview: Questions will focus on your ability to collaborate, problem-solve, manage conflict, lead teams, and fit within JE Dunn's culture ("Best People + Right Culture").

• Case Study/Presentation: You may be asked to present a past project from your portfolio or tackle a hypothetical design challenge relevant to industrial construction.

• Final Interview: With senior leadership to assess overall fit and strategic alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-4 of your most impactful industrial/manufacturing projects. Focus on complexity, scale, and successful outcomes.

• Quantify Achievements: For each project, clearly state your role, responsibilities, and quantifiable results (e.g., % cost savings, % schedule improvement, reduction in RFIs, successful permit acquisition).

• Highlight Process: Detail your methodology for RFP interpretation, design coordination, risk management, and quality control. Use diagrams or flowcharts if helpful.

• Demonstrate Problem-Solving: Include specific examples of complex design challenges you encountered and how you resolved them, detailing the impact of your solutions.

• Tailor to Industrial/Manufacturing: Emphasize projects and experiences directly relevant to industrial facilities, process equipment, and manufacturing environments.

• Visuals: Incorporate relevant drawings, models (screenshots), or site photos where appropriate to illustrate your work.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Review Simulation: Be prepared to analyze a set of design documents (provided or hypothetical) and identify potential issues related to constructability, code compliance, or cost.

• RFP Interpretation Exercise: You might be given an excerpt of an RFP and asked to outline your initial work plan and key considerations.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Anticipate questions about how you would handle conflicts between design disciplines, client scope changes, or unforeseen site conditions. Focus on your structured approach and communication strategy.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily rely on demonstrating practical experience through your portfolio. For operations roles, showcasing a structured, data-driven, and problem-solving approach is key. The emphasis on industrial/manufacturing context is crucial for portfolio and challenge preparation.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design Software: AutoCAD, Revit, Google SketchUp (Proficiency required).

• Project Management Software: Likely a system like Procore, Autodesk Construction Cloud, or similar platforms for managing project documentation, communication, and progress tracking.

• VDC (Virtual Design and Construction) Tools: Experience with BIM (Building Information Modeling) platforms and related software for 3D modeling, clash detection, and visualization.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook (Intermediate to Advanced proficiency).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Cost Management Software: Tools for budget tracking, forecasting, and change order management.

• Scheduling Software: Experience with Primavera P6 or Microsoft Project for developing and managing project schedules.

• Data Analysis Tools: Potentially Excel for data manipulation and analysis related to project performance, cost, and schedule.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM (Customer Relationship Management): While not a direct sales role, understanding CRM principles might be beneficial for managing client relationships and business development activities.

• Workflow Automation: Familiarity with tools or methodologies that automate repetitive design review or documentation processes, aligned with Lean principles.

• Document Management Systems: Robust systems for organizing, storing, and retrieving project documentation, drawings, and specifications.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with design software like Revit and AutoCAD is non-negotiable. Experience with construction-specific project management platforms (e.g., Procore, Autodesk Construction Cloud) and BIM/VDC tools is highly advantageous for a modern construction Design Manager.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity & Honesty: Upholding ethical standards in all dealings with clients, partners, and team members.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive environment where diverse teams work together towards common goals, aligning with the "Best People + Right Culture" ethos.

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: Embracing new technologies, methodologies (like Lean), and creative problem-solving to enhance project delivery and efficiency.

• Client Focus & Partnership: Building authentic partnerships with clients, understanding their business needs, and delivering exceptional value.

• Accountability & Ownership: Taking responsibility for project outcomes, from design integrity to budget and schedule performance.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Actively engaging with preconstruction, operations, VDC, and procurement teams to ensure design alignment and constructability.

• Proactive Communication: Maintaining open and transparent communication channels with internal teams, external consultants, trade partners, and clients.

• Constructive Feedback Culture: Encouraging an environment where feedback is shared openly and constructively to improve designs and processes.

• Problem-Solving Orientation: Approaching challenges collaboratively, seeking input from all relevant parties to develop effective solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: JE Dunn's stated values of "Best People + Right Culture" and "enriching lives" suggest a company that prioritizes its employees and the impact of its work. Operations professionals who thrive in collaborative, ethically-driven environments with a focus on continuous improvement will likely find this a good fit.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Diverse Stakeholders: Effectively coordinating and aligning the interests of multiple parties (clients, architects, engineers, trade contractors, internal teams) with potentially competing priorities.

• Navigating Complex Design Requirements: Ensuring all technical, code, and client-specific requirements for industrial/manufacturing facilities are met within budget and schedule constraints.

• Adapting to Site-Specific Conditions: Resolving unforeseen issues that arise during construction and integrating solutions seamlessly into the existing design and project plans.

• Staying Ahead of Technology & Trends: Keeping pace with advancements in design software, VDC, Lean construction, and evolving industrial construction techniques.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Industrial Training: Access to training programs focused on advanced manufacturing technologies, process engineering, or specific industrial construction methods.

• Leadership Development Programs: Formal training and mentorship opportunities to hone leadership, project management, and business development skills.

• Industry Certifications & Conferences: Support for obtaining relevant certifications (e.g., PMP, LEED) and attending industry conferences to stay abreast of best practices and network.

• Mentorship: Opportunities to be mentored by senior leaders within JE Dunn and to mentor junior design professionals, fostering knowledge transfer.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents challenges common in large-scale construction projects, particularly in specialized sectors. The growth opportunities indicate JE Dunn's commitment to employee development, making it an attractive environment for ambitious operations professionals.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for interpreting a complex Design-Build RFP for an industrial manufacturing facility. What are your first steps and key considerations?" (Focus on structured approach, stakeholder identification, risk assessment).

• "Walk us through a challenging design issue you encountered on a past industrial project. How did you collaborate with different disciplines and stakeholders to resolve it, and what was the outcome?" (Highlight problem-solving, communication, and impact).

• "How do you ensure that a project's design remains within budget and on schedule throughout the design phases? What tools and techniques do you employ?" (Emphasize cost control, schedule management, value engineering, and use of PM software). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracts you to JE Dunn specifically, and how do you see your values aligning with our 'Best People + Right Culture' philosophy?" (Research company mission, values, and recent projects).

• "Describe a time you had to influence a decision or gain buy-in from a difficult stakeholder. How did you approach it, and what was the result?" (Demonstrate collaboration and communication skills).

• "How do you measure the success of a design manager's contribution to a project beyond just budget and schedule?" (Focus on design quality, constructability, client satisfaction, risk mitigation, and team collaboration). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Frame each project as a narrative – the challenge, your approach, the solution, and the quantifiable results.

• Focus on Impact: Clearly articulate the value you brought to each project, especially in terms of cost savings, efficiency improvements, and risk reduction.

• Highlight Industrial Specifics: For each example, draw attention to how your experience is directly applicable to industrial and manufacturing construction.

• Visual Aids: Use clear, concise visuals (drawings, charts, photos) to support your points, but don't let them overshadow your verbal explanation.

• Conciseness: Be prepared to present your key projects within a set timeframe, focusing on the most relevant details.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation for this role should heavily emphasize demonstrating practical, hands-on experience in industrial construction design management. The ability to articulate processes, problem-solve, and quantify impact through portfolio examples will be critical.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the J.E. Dunn Construction careers portal at jobs.jedunn.com.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight experience specifically related to industrial/manufacturing construction, design management, project management, budget/schedule control, and proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, or SketchUp. Quantify achievements with numbers and metrics wherever possible.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate 3-4 strong examples of industrial/manufacturing projects, focusing on your role in design, problem-solving, and successful outcomes. Be ready to discuss your processes and results in detail.

• Research JE Dunn: Understand the company's mission, values, recent projects (especially in industrial sectors), and their commitment to culture. This will help you tailor your answers and demonstrate genuine interest.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare answers for common behavioral and technical questions, focusing on STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions and clear articulation of processes for technical ones. Practice presenting your portfolio highlights.

⚠️ 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.