Design Manager - Aerospace Facilities

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager - Aerospace Facilities

Company: Arcadis

Location: Jacksonville, FL (Remote potential within USA)

Job Type: Full time

Category: Design Management / Project Management (Aerospace Facilities & Data Centers)

Date Posted: 2026-08-10

Experience Level: 10+ years

Remote Status: Hybrid (with significant domestic travel)

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage the end-to-end design process for hyperscale data centers and aerospace facilities across the United States, ensuring alignment with client requirements and project milestones.

• Drive collaboration and communication between internal teams, external design consultants, and clients to deliver high-quality, technically sound, and sustainable facility designs.

• Oversee the entire design lifecycle, from initial campus planning and basis of design through the issuance of construction drawings and support for construction administration.

• Manage project scope, procurement processes, and change order administration specifically related to design and project execution, ensuring adherence to timelines and budgets.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title specifies "Aerospace Facilities," the description heavily emphasizes "hyperscale data centers" as a primary focus, indicating a strong demand in the data center sector. The role requires a blend of deep technical design management expertise and robust project management capabilities within complex, high-power infrastructure environments.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Facilitate and translate complex client requirements into actionable design plans for hyperscale data centers and aerospace facilities nationwide.

• Manage the design process from initial campus planning and basis of design through the issuance of construction drawings, ensuring all project phases are integrated.

• Oversee the execution of design and construction administration services provided by external design teams, fostering strong positive relationships.

• Coordinate procurement activities, manage the issuance and administration of change orders related to design and project scope, and ensure timely resolution.

• Issue engineering information effectively to related vendors and suppliers, ensuring clear communication and technical accuracy.

• Ensure all project deliverables meet established milestones and deadlines, presented in the required format for final clients and internal teams.

• Build and maintain strong, positive relationships with internal and external teams, promoting collaboration and high-quality work output.

• Travel domestically up to 30% of the time to project sites, client locations, and for essential meetings.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a need for a Design Manager who can operate at a strategic project level, bridging client needs with technical execution. Emphasis on managing external teams and change orders suggests a critical need for strong negotiation, communication, and process control skills.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Engineering, or a closely related technical field is required.

• Professional licensure (PE, NCARB, RA) is strongly preferred, indicating a need for deep technical expertise and credibility. Experience:

• 10 or more years of progressive project design experience is mandatory.

• Specific experience in Aerospace Facilities design is highly valued.

• Alternatively, extensive experience with large, complex construction projects such as hospitals, high-rises, laboratories, manufacturing plants, or high-power plants will be considered.

• Proven experience working collaboratively with internal and external multidisciplinary teams, as well as directly with final client teams. Required Skills:

• Project Design Management: Expertise in managing the entire design lifecycle for complex infrastructure projects.

• Aerospace Facilities / Data Center Design: Deep understanding of the specific design considerations, regulations, and technologies relevant to these sectors.

• Autodesk Platforms: Fundamental knowledge of Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) or Building Information Modelling (BIM) engineered solutions is essential for design collaboration and execution.

• Technical Specifications & Implementation Planning: Ability to develop detailed project plans, technical specifications, and implementation schedules.

• Team Coordination & Stakeholder Management: Proven ability to coordinate internal and external teams and build strong client relationships.

• Communication Skills: Excellent oral and written communication for clear articulation of technical concepts and project status.

• Deadline & Priority Management: Demonstrated ability to handle multiple projects with evolving priorities in a dynamic, deadline-driven environment.

Preferred Skills:

• Professional Licensure (PE, NCARB, RA): Highly desirable for demonstrating expertise and credibility.

• Campus Planning: Experience in strategic site selection and master planning for large-scale facilities.

• Construction Administration Oversight: Ability to effectively guide and oversee external teams during the construction phase.

• Procurement & Change Order Management: Proficiency in managing project scope, procurement, and change orders efficiently.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "10 or more years" requirement, coupled with the preference for licensure, points to a senior-level role requiring seasoned professionals with a strong track record in managing high-stakes design projects. The explicit mention of Autodesk platforms highlights the importance of digital collaboration tools in their project delivery.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Process Documentation: Showcase your ability to manage the design process from concept through construction documents, including phase gates and review cycles.

• Project Management Case Studies: Present detailed examples of complex construction or facility design projects you have managed, highlighting your role, challenges, and outcomes.

• System Integration Examples: Illustrate your experience with integrating various design systems, particularly Autodesk platforms (ACC, BIM), and how you ensured seamless data flow and collaboration.

• Client Requirement Translation: Provide examples of how you successfully translated client needs into tangible design solutions and managed scope creep through effective change management.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Demonstrate experience in designing and optimizing design workflows for efficiency, accuracy, and timely delivery, especially within multidisciplinary teams.

• Implementation & Automation: Showcase your understanding and application of project implementation plans, scheduling, and any use of automation or BIM for process improvement.

• Measurement & Analysis: Evidence of how you track and report on design process performance, including adherence to milestones, budget, and quality standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role, the portfolio should emphasize not just the final design output, but the process of achieving it. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate their methodology for managing complex design projects, integrating diverse teams, and utilizing digital tools like BIM and ACC.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $130,000 - $180,000 (Estimated Annual Salary)

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans.

• Retirement Savings: 401K plan.

• Income Protection: Short-Term Disability (STD), Long-Term Disability (LTD), Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D), and Life Insurance.

• Family Support: Paid Parental Leave, Adoption Assistance.

• Professional Development: Tuition Reimbursement, Reward & Recognition Program, Wellbeing Benefits.

• Work-Life Balance: Nine paid holidays and 15 days of Paid Time Off (PTO) that accrue annually.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Support services for employees.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are expected, likely around 40 hours per week, with potential for extended hours based on project demands and deadlines. The hybrid nature may offer some flexibility in daily scheduling.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range ($xxx,xxx - $xxx,xxx) is a placeholder. Based on the experience level (10+ years), location (Jacksonville, FL, but remote within the US with travel), and industry (Aerospace/Data Centers), a realistic range for a Design Manager with this profile is estimated between $130,000 and $180,000 annually. This estimate is derived from industry benchmarks for senior project/design management roles in engineering and construction, adjusted for the specialized nature of data center and aerospace facilities. Actual salaries will vary based on specific experience, education, budget, internal equity, project, and location.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Design, Engineering, and Consultancy for Natural and Built Assets. Arcadis operates globally, with a significant presence in delivering sustainable solutions.

Company Size: Over 34,000 employees globally, operating in over 30 countries. This indicates a large, well-established organization with ample resources and opportunities.

Founded: While the founding date isn't explicitly stated, Arcadis has a long history of providing engineering and design services, suggesting a culture built on expertise, innovation, and long-term client relationships.

Team Structure:

• American Places Group: The role sits within the "American Places" group, suggesting a focus on infrastructure and development projects within the US.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: The role requires significant collaboration with internal multidisciplinary teams (likely including architects, engineers, project managers, sustainability experts) and external design consultants.

• Client-Facing: Direct interaction with high-profile clients, particularly in the hyperscale data center sector, is a core aspect of the role.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Emphasis on leveraging data for informed design decisions and project execution.

• Sustainable Solutions: Arcadis' core mission is delivering sustainable design, so this will likely be a key consideration in all projects.

• Collaborative Project Delivery: A focus on creating strong, positive relationships to ensure project success and continuous improvement.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Arcadis' global scale and focus on sustainability suggest a company that values expertise, innovation, and long-term impact. The "American Places" group likely focuses on large-scale infrastructure and development, aligning with the demands of hyperscale data centers and complex aerospace facilities.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior-level Design Manager position, requiring extensive experience and the ability to lead complex projects autonomously. It sits at a critical junction between technical design expertise and project leadership.

Reporting Structure: The role likely reports to a senior director or vice president within the American Places group or a dedicated Data Center/Aerospace sector lead. The manager will, in turn, lead and direct external design teams and collaborate closely with internal project management and client teams.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct and significant impact on project success, client satisfaction, and Arcadis' reputation in the high-growth data center and aerospace sectors. Effective design management ensures projects are delivered on time, within budget, to high-quality standards, and meet sustainability goals, directly contributing to revenue generation and client retention.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Expansion: Potential to manage larger, more complex, or multiple concurrent projects, or to lead a team of Design Managers.

• Sector Specialization: Deepen expertise within hyperscale data centers or aerospace facilities, becoming a recognized subject matter expert within Arcadis.

• Client Relationship Management: Develop and strengthen relationships with key clients, potentially leading to new business development opportunities.

• Global Mobility: Opportunities to engage with Arcadis' global network and projects, leveraging international best practices.

• Mentorship: Opportunity to mentor junior designers and project managers, contributing to the development of future talent within the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for this role is clearly defined towards senior leadership in design and project management within specialized sectors. Growth is tied to increasing project complexity, team leadership, and strategic client engagement.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid. The role is based in Jacksonville, FL, but offers remote work flexibility within the USA. This implies a need for strong self-management and remote collaboration skills.

Office Location(s): The primary listed location is Jacksonville, FL, with the explicit mention of being "based anywhere in the USA." This suggests a distributed team model with a central hub or administrative base in Jacksonville.

Workspace Context:

• Remote Work Setup: Candidates must have a suitable home office environment conducive to focused work and virtual meetings.

• Collaborative Tools: Expect to utilize digital collaboration platforms (e.g., Microsoft Teams, Slack, Autodesk Construction Cloud) for communication and project management.

• Travel: Significant domestic travel (up to 30%) is a key component, requiring adaptability and comfort working from various client sites, project locations, and hotel environments.

Work Schedule: Primarily standard business hours (e.g., 40 hours/week), but flexibility will be required to accommodate project deadlines, client needs across different time zones, and potential travel schedules.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Hybrid" designation with significant travel indicates a role that demands autonomy and flexibility. Candidates should be comfortable managing their workload remotely and be prepared for frequent travel, which is a critical aspect of this position.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess alignment with the minimum experience and qualifications.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion focused on your project management experience, technical design expertise (especially in aerospace or data centers), and understanding of the role's accountabilities. Be prepared to discuss specific projects from your portfolio.

• Technical/Team Interview: This may involve a deeper dive into your technical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and experience with BIM/ACC. You might meet with other design managers, engineers, or project leads.

• Case Study/Portfolio Presentation: A crucial step where you will likely be asked to present one or more significant projects from your portfolio, detailing your role, the challenges, your process, and the outcomes. This is where you demonstrate your ability to manage complex design processes and deliver results.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership to assess cultural fit, strategic thinking, and overall suitability for the role and Arcadis.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Relevant Projects: Prioritize projects that directly showcase your experience in aerospace facilities, hyperscale data centers, or similar large-scale, complex construction projects.

• Focus on Process, Not Just Output: Clearly articulate your design management methodology, how you managed teams, navigated challenges, and implemented solutions. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for each project example.

• Quantify Achievements: Wherever possible, use metrics to demonstrate impact. For example, "Reduced design review cycles by X%," "Managed a design budget of $Y million," "Ensured project completion Z days ahead of schedule."

• Showcase Technical Proficiency: Include examples of your work with BIM, Autodesk Construction Cloud, technical specifications, and project implementation plans.

• Demonstrate Collaboration: Provide evidence of your ability to work effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders, highlighting successful communication and relationship-building strategies.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Management Scenarios: Be ready to discuss hypothetical scenarios related to managing design conflicts, scope creep, challenging client requests, or budget constraints.

• Technical Problem-Solving: Prepare to discuss how you would approach specific design challenges common in data centers or aerospace facilities.

• Process Improvement: Think about how you would assess and improve existing design processes within Arcadis, drawing on your experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio review and case study presentation suggests that demonstrating practical application of skills and a clear understanding of design management processes is paramount for this role. Candidates should prepare thoroughly to articulate their project experience and methodologies.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC): Essential for managing project documentation, collaboration, and workflows. Proficiency in its modules (e.g., BIM 360, PlanGrid) is critical.

• Building Information Modelling (BIM): A fundamental understanding and experience with BIM processes and software (e.g., Revit, Navisworks) for design coordination and visualization.

• Project Management Software: Experience with industry-standard PM tools for scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking (e.g., Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Asana, Monday.com).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret data from project management and design tools to identify trends, risks, and opportunities for improvement.

• Reporting Dashboards: Experience creating or utilizing dashboards for tracking project progress, design milestones, and key performance indicators (KPIs).

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: Familiarity with CRM principles for managing client relationships and project pipelines.

• Workflow Automation: Understanding of how to leverage technology to automate repetitive design or project management tasks.

• Integration Tools: Awareness of how different software platforms can be integrated to streamline data flow and improve efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with Autodesk Construction Cloud and BIM is explicitly stated as a requirement, highlighting their importance in Arcadis' design and project delivery processes. Experience with other project management and collaboration tools is also crucial.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Sustainability: A core Arcadis value, expect to integrate sustainable design principles into all projects.

• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and exceeding client expectations in delivering high-quality, impactful solutions.

• Curiosity & Innovation: A drive to explore new ideas, technologies, and approaches to solve complex challenges.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Emphasis on working together, leveraging diverse perspectives to achieve collective success.

• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding high ethical standards and taking ownership of responsibilities and outcomes.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively engage with and integrate the expertise of various internal disciplines and external partners.

• Open Communication: Foster an environment of transparent and honest communication, encouraging feedback and open dialogue.

• Proactive Problem-Solving: Work collaboratively to identify potential issues early and develop effective solutions.

• Knowledge Sharing: Contribute to a culture of learning by sharing insights, best practices, and lessons learned across projects and teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: Arcadis' emphasis on sustainability, client focus, and collaborative innovation suggests a culture that values both technical excellence and strong interpersonal skills. Candidates should demonstrate an alignment with these core values.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Distributed Teams: Effectively leading and coordinating internal and external teams located across different regions and time zones, especially with a hybrid/remote setup.

• Balancing Multiple Priorities: Juggling the demands of multiple complex projects, each with unique client requirements, deadlines, and technical challenges.

• Evolving Client Needs: Adapting to rapidly changing client requirements and technological advancements in the fast-paced data center and aerospace industries.

• Ensuring Design Consistency: Maintaining high standards of design quality and consistency across various projects and external consultant teams.

• Travel Demands: Adapting to and effectively managing a significant amount of domestic travel.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design & Technology Training: Access to specialized training on the latest design software, BIM, data center technologies, and aerospace facility standards.

• Project Leadership Development: Opportunities to take on increasingly complex projects, develop strategic leadership skills, and potentially manage teams.

• Industry Conferences & Certifications: Support for attending relevant industry events and pursuing professional certifications to stay abreast of best practices and emerging trends.

• Mentorship Programs: Access to experienced leaders within Arcadis for guidance and career development.

• Sustainability Expertise: Deepen knowledge and application of sustainable design principles in complex infrastructure projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for senior roles in complex project environments, emphasizing the need for strong organizational, communication, and adaptability skills. The growth opportunities are geared towards expanding leadership capabilities and technical specialization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to managing the design process for a hyperscale data center from initial client brief to construction drawings. What are your key phases and checkpoints?"

• "How do you ensure effective communication and collaboration between diverse internal teams and external design consultants on large-scale projects?"

• "Walk us through a time you had to manage a significant design change or conflict on a project. What was your strategy, and what was the outcome?"

• "How do you prioritize tasks and manage multiple, competing deadlines in a dynamic project environment?" Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Arcadis and our work in the data center/aerospace sectors?"

• "How do you align with Arcadis' commitment to sustainability in your design management approach?"

• "Describe your ideal team environment and how you foster a collaborative culture."

• "How do you ensure your work contributes to the overall strategic goals of the company and client?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project presented, clearly outline the client's challenge, your role and responsibilities, the key design decisions made, the processes you implemented (especially BIM/ACC), obstacles overcome, and the quantifiable results achieved.

• Visual Aids: Use slides that are visually appealing and easy to understand. Include relevant diagrams, renderings, or project photos if possible. Highlight key data points and metrics.

• Focus on Process: Emphasize how you managed the project, not just what the project was. Detail your approach to risk management, stakeholder engagement, and problem-solving.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about specific technical aspects of your projects, your role in procurement, or your experience with change orders.

• Connect to Arcadis: Frame your experience and approach in a way that demonstrates how you can bring value to Arcadis and its clients.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily rely on demonstrating practical experience and a structured approach to design management. Candidates should prepare specific examples and be ready to articulate their methodologies clearly and concisely.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided Oracle Cloud link.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight your 10+ years of project design experience, specifically mentioning aerospace facilities, hyperscale data centers, or analogous complex projects. Quantify achievements and clearly list your experience with Autodesk platforms (ACC, BIM).

• Portfolio Curation: Select 2-3 of your most impactful projects that best showcase your design management capabilities, team leadership, and technical expertise. Prepare a concise presentation for each, focusing on process, challenges, and results.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your project management methodology, problem-solving skills, and experience with relevant tools. Prepare answers to strategy, technical, and behavioral questions.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Arcadis' mission, values, and recent projects, particularly in the data center and aerospace sectors. Understand their commitment to sustainability.

⚠️ 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.