Design Manager – A/E Services

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager – A/E Services

Company: ENGICON CM

Location: Los Angeles, CA

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Operations Management / Project Management (Construction & Facilities)

Date Posted: August 04, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversees the end-to-end design process for Architectural & Engineering (A&E) services within a district or large organization, ensuring all projects align with strategic objectives, functional requirements, budgetary constraints, and legal compliance.

• Manages a portfolio of capital projects, focusing on repair, modernization, and new construction, through effective collaboration with external architects, consultants, and internal stakeholders to ensure timely and successful project delivery.

• Ensures adherence to established building standards, guidelines, and educational facility requirements by proactively engaging with design professionals and district administrators throughout the design lifecycle.

• Develops and implements robust processes for selecting the most qualified architectural firms based on performance standards and project needs, and provides clear, consistent direction to guide their design efforts.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within a large, likely public sector organization (indicated by "District" and "LAUSD" in the description). The focus is on managing the design phase of capital projects, requiring a strong understanding of architectural and engineering processes, contract administration, and budget adherence within a regulated environment. While not a direct "revenue operations" role, it heavily involves process management, stakeholder coordination, and strategic execution akin to GTM operations.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design Process Management: Lead and coordinate the district’s A&E design process, ensuring all plans meet functional program, budgetary, environmental, and legal requirements.

• Project Oversight: Manage multiple concurrent capital projects, including critical repair and modernization initiatives, by effectively interacting with Architects, consultants, and District personnel to ensure timely completion.

• Standards Compliance: Oversee the building design process to ensure strict compliance with LAUSD’s standards and guidelines by collaborating with design professionals and various District administrators.

• Architect Selection: Establish and execute a systematic process for identifying and selecting architectural firms based on qualifications, ability to meet performance standards, and alignment with project goals.

• Direction & Collaboration: Provide architects with clear, consistent direction on project goals, objectives, standards, site utilization, schedule, and budget.

• Design Review: Establish and implement an efficient design review process to ensure designs meet overall project goals, deliver maximum value for budget, and are appropriate for the district's functional needs, community, and environment.

• Budgetary Control: Review and approve design changes to ensure projects remain within allocated budgets, proactively identifying and mitigating cost overruns.

• Reporting & Monitoring: Monitor project planning and design status, reporting findings, recommendations, and project updates to relevant stakeholders.

• Cross-Functional Coordination: Facilitate seamless communication and collaboration between internal departments, external consultants, and contractors to ensure project objectives are met.

• Process Improvement: Continuously evaluate and refine design processes to enhance efficiency, effectiveness, and compliance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong emphasis on process management, compliance, and strategic vendor management, which are core components of operations roles. The "LAUSD" reference strongly suggests this is for the Los Angeles Unified School District, implying a public sector, educational facilities context.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Graduation from a recognized college or university with a bachelor’s degree in Architecture or Engineering. Experience:

• Minimum 8 years of full-time, paid professional experience managing the facilities design, or the planning and coordination of capital projects that included overall design, contract administration, cost estimating, and scheduling activities.

• 4 years of this experience must be specifically with the design, planning, and construction of educational facilities or similar public agency projects. Required Skills:

• Project Management: Proven ability to manage multiple, complex capital projects from initiation through design completion.

• Architectural & Engineering Design: Deep understanding of the A&E design process, standards, and best practices in construction and facilities management.

• Contract Administration: Expertise in managing contracts with external architectural and engineering firms, ensuring adherence to terms and deliverables.

• Budget Management & Cost Control: Strong financial acumen to manage project budgets, review design-related cost changes, and ensure fiscal responsibility.

• Stakeholder Management: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to effectively coordinate with architects, consultants, district administrators, and other stakeholders.

• Compliance & Standards Adherence: Thorough knowledge of building codes, educational facility standards, and regulatory requirements.

Preferred Skills:

• Public Sector Project Experience: Direct experience managing projects within public agencies, particularly educational institutions.

• Risk Management: Ability to identify, assess, and mitigate design-related risks.

• Strategic Planning: Capacity to contribute to the strategic planning of district facilities development.

• Negotiation Skills: Proficiency in negotiating contracts and design proposals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience requirement of "8 years full time paid professional experience managing the facilities design, or the planning and coordination of capital projects" with a specific 4-year requirement for educational facilities strongly suggests a senior-level role focused on process and strategic oversight rather than hands-on design execution. The "10+ Years" AI-derived experience level aligns with this.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Management Case Studies: Demonstrations of successfully managed capital projects, highlighting the design phase, challenges overcome, and outcomes achieved.

• Process Design & Optimization: Examples of established or improved design processes, workflow documentation, and standards implemented.

• Budgetary Control Documentation: Evidence of managing project budgets, reviewing cost estimates, and controlling expenditures during the design phase.

• Vendor Management Examples: Documentation showcasing the process of selecting and managing architectural firms, including proposal evaluation and contract oversight.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design: Ability to document and present comprehensive A&E project workflows from inception to design completion.

• Implementation Strategies: Examples of how design processes were implemented and integrated into organizational standards.

• Performance Measurement: Methods used to track and report on the performance of design processes, including adherence to schedule, budget, and quality standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role of this caliber, a portfolio demonstrating a structured approach to managing complex design processes, vendor relationships, and financial controls is crucial. The emphasis should be on strategic oversight and process management rather than individual design contributions.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $160,000 - $185,000 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching

• Dental insurance

• Employee discounts

• Health insurance

• Paid time off

• Training & development opportunities

• Vision insurance

Working Hours: 40 hours per week (standard full-time)

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range of $160,000 - $185,000 for a Design Manager in Los Angeles, CA, with 10+ years of experience and specific public sector/educational facilities expertise, aligns with industry benchmarks for senior management roles in high-cost-of-living areas. The benefits package is comprehensive and typical for full-time positions in this sector.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction Management / Architectural & Engineering Services (Public Sector Focus)

Company Size: Engicon CM is likely a mid-sized to large firm, given the scope of managing district-wide A&E services. (Company size data not provided, inferring based on role scope).

Founded: Engicon CM was founded in 2002, suggesting established experience and a mature operational framework.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager likely leads a team of project managers, design coordinators, or administrative support staff focused on the A&E services division.

• This role will report to a senior executive, such as a Director of Facilities, Chief Operating Officer, or VP of Projects, within ENGICON CM or potentially directly to a client organization like LAUSD if this is an outsourced role.

• Close collaboration is expected with internal project management teams, procurement, legal departments, and external architectural and engineering firms. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Emphasis on using project data, cost analysis, and performance metrics to inform design selections and budget approvals.

• Process Standardization: Development and adherence to standardized design, review, and selection processes to ensure consistency and quality across all projects.

• Risk Mitigation: Proactive identification and management of risks associated with design, budget, schedule, and regulatory compliance.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's founding date (2002) indicates a stable organization with established processes. The role's nature suggests a structured, process-oriented environment, typical of construction management firms serving public entities.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior management position, likely equivalent to a Director or Senior Manager level within a specialized A&E services division. It requires significant experience in capital project lifecycle management, with a focus on the critical design and planning phases. The scope involves managing complex, high-value projects and strategic vendor relationships.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will likely report to a Director of Operations, VP of Projects, or a similar senior leadership role within ENGICON CM. They will also have direct reporting lines to project managers and coordinators within their team. Close liaison with client representatives (e.g., LAUSD) will be a key aspect of the role.

Operations Impact: This role has a substantial impact on the organization's ability to deliver successful capital projects. Effective management of the design process directly influences project timelines, budgets, quality, and ultimately, the functionality and longevity of educational facilities. Positive outcomes contribute to client satisfaction, repeat business, and the organization's reputation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Expansion: Potential to move into broader project executive roles, overseeing larger project portfolios or multiple divisions.

• Strategic Development: Opportunity to influence the strategic direction of A&E services, including process innovation and technology adoption.

• Client Relationship Management: Deepen expertise and relationships with key clients, potentially leading to business development or account management roles.

• Specialization: Further specialization in areas like sustainable design, complex educational facility planning, or public-private partnerships.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for this role typically involves progression from project management to managing multiple projects, then leading a specialized function like design management, and potentially advancing to executive leadership in construction or facilities management.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This role is primarily based in an office environment, likely within ENGICON CM's corporate offices or a dedicated project office. The "On-site" status indicates that remote work is not the primary arrangement.

Office Location(s): Los Angeles, California, with potential for site visits to project locations throughout the district.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The workspace will likely foster collaboration with project teams, design consultants, and internal departments. Expect a professional office setting with meeting rooms and shared workspaces.

• Technology Enabled: Access to project management software, design review tools, communication platforms, and standard office technology will be essential.

• Dynamic Interaction: While primarily office-based, the role will involve frequent interactions with external partners and potentially site visits, requiring adaptability and effective communication across various settings.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week is expected, with potential for extended hours during critical project phases or tight deadlines, common in the construction and A&E industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "On-site" requirement emphasizes the need for physical presence, likely for team collaboration, client meetings, and site oversight, which is typical for construction management and senior project roles.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or recruiter conducts an initial phone screen to assess basic qualifications, experience alignment, and salary expectations.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A detailed discussion with the hiring manager focusing on project management experience, A&E process knowledge, leadership style, and problem-solving capabilities.

• Technical/Panel Interview: May involve a panel of senior stakeholders (e.g., Director of Facilities, Lead Architects/Engineers) to assess technical expertise, strategic thinking, and cultural fit. This stage might include a case study presentation.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior executive for final approval and cultural alignment assessment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure for Impact: Organize your portfolio to clearly showcase 3-5 key capital projects managed. For each, detail the project's scope, your role, key design challenges, process solutions implemented, budget/schedule management, and successful outcomes.

• Highlight Process Ownership: Emphasize your role in establishing, managing, and refining design processes, vendor selection, and compliance procedures. Use flowcharts or diagrams where appropriate.

• Quantify Achievements: Use metrics to demonstrate your impact – e.g., "Reduced design review cycle by X%", "Managed a $Y million design budget with Z% savings," "Ensured 100% compliance with LAUSD standards on X projects."

• Tailor to Role: Focus on experience relevant to educational facilities and public sector projects, aligning with the job description's requirements.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Process Scenario: Be prepared to discuss how you would approach a complex design challenge for a new school facility, including stakeholder engagement, risk assessment, and budget management.

• Vendor Selection Strategy: Outline your process for selecting an architectural firm for a critical renovation project, detailing criteria and evaluation methods.

• Problem-Solving Case Study: Prepare to walk through a past project where you faced significant design or budget issues and how you resolved them, focusing on your decision-making process and leadership.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the senior nature of this role, interviewers will focus heavily on strategic thinking, process management, and the ability to handle complex stakeholder environments. A well-curated portfolio is essential for demonstrating practical experience and impact.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Experience with platforms like Procore, Autodesk Construction Cloud, Oracle Aconex, or similar systems for managing project documentation, schedules, and communication.

• Design Software Proficiency: Familiarity with, or ability to oversee teams using, CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit) and BIM (Building Information Modeling) for design review and understanding.

• Budgeting & Cost Management Tools: Proficiency with cost estimating software or ERP systems that handle financial tracking for capital projects.

Analytics & Reporting:

• MS Excel/Google Sheets: Advanced skills for data analysis, financial modeling, and creating custom reports.

• Business Intelligence Tools: Familiarity with BI platforms (e.g., Tableau, Power BI) may be beneficial for creating dashboards and visualizing project performance data, though not explicitly required.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: While not a sales role, understanding how client relationship management systems are used to track project status and client communications could be advantageous.

• Workflow Automation Tools: Awareness of tools that can automate aspects of document review, approval processes, or project notifications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role requires a strong understanding of project management tools and the ability to interpret data from design and financial systems. While direct hands-on use of design software might not be required, proficiency in managing teams that use them and understanding their outputs is crucial.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding ethical standards in all dealings with clients, vendors, and internal teams, and taking ownership of project outcomes.

• Excellence & Quality: A commitment to delivering high-quality design solutions that meet and exceed client expectations and district standards.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a cooperative environment where diverse teams work together effectively to achieve common goals.

• Efficiency & Innovation: Continuously seeking ways to optimize processes, leverage technology, and implement innovative solutions to improve project delivery.

• Client Focus: Prioritizing client needs and ensuring successful project outcomes that benefit the community and educational mission.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Encouraging open communication and seamless integration between design, construction, procurement, and client-side teams.

• Constructive Feedback Culture: Promoting an environment where constructive feedback on designs and processes is welcomed and acted upon.

• Knowledge Sharing: Facilitating the sharing of best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise across project teams and the broader organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture likely emphasizes professionalism, structured processes, and a results-oriented approach, common in established construction management firms serving public sector clients.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Bureaucracy: Managing design processes within large public organizations often involves complex approval chains, policy adherence, and potential for slower decision-making.

• Budgetary Constraints: Balancing ambitious design visions with strict budgetary limitations and managing scope creep effectively.

• Stakeholder Alignment: Ensuring all stakeholders (client, community, internal teams, consultants) are aligned on project goals and design decisions can be complex.

• Keeping Pace with Technology: Integrating new design technologies (e.g., advanced BIM, AI in design) and ensuring teams are trained and adopt them effectively.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Project Management Certifications: Pursuing PMP or specialized construction management certifications.

• Public Sector Procurement & Contracts: Deepening knowledge of public procurement laws and contract negotiation specific to government projects.

• Leadership Development Programs: Participating in programs focused on strategic leadership, team building, and executive communication.

• Industry Conferences & Seminars: Attending events focused on educational facility design, construction technology, and public infrastructure development.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities to tackle complex challenges in large-scale public projects, refine leadership skills, and contribute to significant community infrastructure.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for managing the A&E design phase of a large capital project, from initial scope definition to final design approval." (Focus on process, stakeholders, risk)

• "How do you ensure architectural firms meet performance standards and deliver value within budget and schedule?" (Focus on vendor management, financial oversight)

• "Walk me through a time you had to manage conflicting design requirements from multiple stakeholders. How did you resolve it?" (Focus on problem-solving, negotiation, communication) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about ENGICON CM and our work in the public sector/education space?" (Demonstrate research)

• "How do you foster a collaborative environment among design teams, contractors, and client representatives?" (Focus on team dynamics, communication)

• "How do you measure success in the design management of capital projects?" (Focus on metrics, impact, results) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Executive Summary: Begin with a high-level overview of your most impactful projects, highlighting your role and key achievements.

• Process-Oriented Storytelling: For each case study, clearly articulate the process you followed, emphasizing your decision-making, problem-solving, and management strategies.

• Visual Aids: Use clear, concise visuals such as project timelines, budget breakdowns, and workflow diagrams to support your narrative.

• Quantify Impact: Conclude each case study with quantifiable results related to budget, schedule, quality, and stakeholder satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare to discuss your methodologies for managing complex processes, leading teams, and ensuring successful project delivery within a regulated, public sector environment.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided careerplug link.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your 8+ years of facilities design or capital project management experience, ensuring the 4 years in educational/public agency settings is clearly stated. Use keywords from the job description such as "A&E Services," "Design Process Management," "Contract Administration," and "Budget Control."

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 3-5 strong case studies that best demonstrate your experience in managing design phases of capital projects, particularly in educational or similar public sectors. Focus on process, budget, and stakeholder management.

• Prepare Your Narrative: Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for common interview questions, especially those related to project management, vendor selection, and problem-solving.

• Research ENGICON CM: Understand their company history, key projects, and values to tailor your responses and demonstrate genuine interest.

⚠️ 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.

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