Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager

Company: Cordoba Corporation

Location: Los Angeles, California, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Facilities Design & Management / Architectural & Engineering (A&E) Operations

Date Posted: August 05, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ years (Implied by 8 years required + 4 years specific, with preference for licensed professionals)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and coordinate the comprehensive planning, design, and delivery of architectural and engineering (A&E) services for capital improvement, modernization, and facility repair projects within the Facilities Sector.

• Manage multiple concurrent projects, ensuring strict adherence to program requirements, stringent budget constraints, all applicable regulatory standards, and specific District guidelines.

• Drive the selection of architectural and engineering firms through a rigorous evaluation process, ensuring alignment with performance standards and project needs.

• Oversee and optimize the A&E design process, from initial project conception through final completion, focusing on delivering high-quality, efficient, and enduring outcomes.

• Facilitate seamless collaboration between internal stakeholders, external consultants (architects, engineers), and District personnel to achieve project objectives and ensure building performance goals are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Design Manager" title, coupled with responsibilities for A&E services, capital improvements, and facility repair projects, strongly indicates a role within the broader GTM Operations umbrella, specifically focusing on the operational aspects of project delivery and infrastructure management. The emphasis on budget, regulatory compliance, and stakeholder coordination aligns with core operations principles.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Spearhead the district’s design process for A&E Services, ensuring all plans align with functional program requirements, budgetary parameters, environmental considerations, and legal mandates.

• Oversee the concurrent management of multiple projects, including critical engineering repairs, by actively engaging with architects, consultants, and District stakeholders to guarantee timely project completion.

• Direct the building design process to ensure unwavering compliance with the specific standards and guidelines established by the District, collaborating with design professionals and administrators to meet educational and building standards for new and modernized structures.

• Establish and meticulously follow a robust process for identifying and selecting the most qualified architectural firms for each project, based on demonstrated qualifications and their capacity to meet defined performance standards.

• Provide architects and design teams with clear, consistent, and strategic direction regarding project goals, objectives, relevant standards, site considerations, timelines, and budgetary allocations.

• Implement and maintain an effective and efficient design review process to guarantee that all designs fully satisfy the overarching goals and objectives of each specific project.

• Ensure maximum value is achieved for budgeted expenditures, delivering appropriate and enduring solutions that effectively meet the functional needs of the district, the local community, and environmental sustainability objectives.

• Diligently review all proposed design changes to confirm that the project remains strictly within its allocated budget.

• Proactively monitor project planning and design progress, regularly reporting findings, strategic recommendations, and critical updates to relevant stakeholders.

• Perform all other assigned duties that contribute to the successful execution of the Facilities Sector's design and project management objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities listed are highly operational, focusing on process management, vendor selection, compliance, and project execution within the A&E domain. This role requires a strong understanding of project lifecycle management and cross-functional coordination, typical of senior operations positions.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

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

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

• A minimum of 4 years of the required 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 improvement and facility repair projects concurrently from initiation to completion.

• A&E Process Management: Deep understanding of architectural and engineering design lifecycles, including planning, design, review, and approval processes.

• Budgetary Oversight: Expertise in managing project budgets, tracking expenditures, and reviewing design changes to ensure cost control.

• Regulatory Compliance: Strong knowledge of building codes, zoning regulations, and public agency/district-specific design standards and guidelines.

• Vendor Management & Selection: Skill in evaluating and selecting architectural and engineering firms based on qualifications, experience, and performance capabilities.

• Contract Administration: Experience in overseeing contract terms, scope, and deliverables for external design consultants.

• Cost Estimating & Scheduling: Proficiency in understanding and managing project cost estimates and development schedules.

• Stakeholder Communication: Excellent ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders, including District administrators, architects, engineers, and community members.

• Design Review Expertise: Capability to conduct thorough design reviews, ensuring alignment with project objectives, standards, and performance goals.

Preferred Skills:

• Professional Licensure: A valid Certificate of Registration as an Architect by the California State Architectural Board or Professional Engineer by the State Board for Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors.

• Educational Facility Experience: Specialized experience with K-12 or higher education facility design and construction.

• Public Agency Project Experience: Demonstrated success in managing projects within public sector procurement and compliance frameworks.

• Construction Management Fundamentals: Understanding of construction methodologies and their impact on design decisions.

• Building Performance Analysis: Familiarity with principles of building performance, sustainability, and operational efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications clearly emphasize a blend of technical expertise in A&E and strong operational management skills. The preference for licensed professionals suggests a need for deep domain knowledge and accountability, common in senior operations leadership roles. The mention of "public agencies" and "educational facilities" points to specific operational contexts requiring adherence to stringent processes and compliance frameworks.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Management Case Studies: Showcase examples of successfully managed capital improvement or facility repair projects, detailing scope, budget, timeline, and key challenges overcome. Emphasize the role in coordinating design and ensuring delivery.

• Design Process Optimization: Present instances where you implemented or refined design processes to improve efficiency, reduce costs, or enhance quality. Quantify improvements using metrics where possible.

• Vendor Selection & Management Documentation: Include examples of RFQ/RFP processes, scoring criteria, and successful selection of A&E firms. Demonstrate experience in managing consultant performance.

• Budget Management & Change Control: Provide examples of how you managed project budgets, tracked financial performance, and handled design changes to maintain fiscal responsibility. Highlight decision-making processes.

• Compliance & Standards Adherence: Illustrate your approach to ensuring designs meet regulatory requirements and organizational standards. This could include examples of review checklists or compliance reports.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Demonstrate experience in mapping, analyzing, and optimizing design workflows, from initial programming through construction documentation. Highlight methodologies used for process improvement.

• System Implementation & Integration: Showcase experience in implementing or leveraging systems (e.g., project management software, BIM tools, document management systems) to support the design and project delivery process.

• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Detail how you establish key performance indicators (KPIs) for design projects and how you use data to monitor progress, identify risks, and drive continuous improvement in design outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role like this, a portfolio is crucial. It should demonstrate not just project completion, but the operational methodology behind achieving those completions. Candidates should highlight their ability to structure complex processes, manage multiple vendors, and ensure compliance – all hallmarks of effective operations management.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $160,000 - $175,000 USD per year. This range reflects the seniority of the Design Manager role, the significant experience required (10+ years implied), and the responsibilities associated with managing high-value capital projects in a major metropolitan area like Los Angeles. Industry benchmarks for similar roles in major California cities typically fall within this bracket, considering the specialized nature of A&E project management within public or quasi-public entities.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Multiple medical and dental insurance plan options available, with coverage effective the first month after hire. Plans are subsidized for both employees and dependents.

• Vision Insurance: Included as part of the health benefits package.

• Life & AD&D Insurance: Company-paid Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) and life insurance policies provided.

• Retirement Savings: A 401k plan is offered, featuring an industry-leading employer match to support long-term financial planning.

• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrual of generous vacation and sick leave, plus 9 paid holidays. Additional paid time off may be available.

• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs): Options include medical care reimbursement, dependent care reimbursement, and commuter benefit plans to help manage pre-tax expenses.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Access to confidential support services for personal and professional well-being.

• Well-being Benefits: Resources and programs focused on stress management, nutrition, and financial well-being to support a healthy lifestyle.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are assumed to be 40 hours per week. While the role is on-site, the company culture emphasizes efficiency and employee well-being, suggesting a professional environment that balances project demands with work-life integration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is competitive for a senior management role in Los Angeles, especially within the engineering and construction sector. The benefits package is robust, typical of established firms aiming to attract and retain talent, with specific mention of programs supporting employee well-being, which is increasingly valued in operations roles focused on long-term team performance.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Program Management, and Planning. Cordoba Corporation operates within the infrastructure development sector, with a significant focus on public and educational facilities.

Company Size: The description implies a mid-to-large sized firm with a statewide presence and national recognition. The mention of multiple offices across California and consistent rankings by Engineering News-Record (ENR) suggests a robust organizational structure.

Founded: The company was founded prior to 2018 (as indicated by the ENR ranking in that year), establishing a significant history and track record in the industry.

Team Structure:

• Operations Focus: The Facilities Sector likely comprises specialized teams focused on project delivery, design management, construction oversight, and potentially client relations for educational and public clients.

• Reporting: The Design Manager will likely report to a Director or Vice President within the Facilities Sector, overseeing a team of project managers, design coordinators, or administrative support staff.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: This role demands extensive collaboration with internal departments (e.g., project controls, procurement, legal) and external partners including architects, engineers, contractors, and various District departments (e.g., facilities maintenance, educational leadership).

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: The emphasis on "building performance goals," "budgetary requirements," and "regulatory standards" suggests a data-informed approach to project planning and execution.

• Process Optimization: Cordoba's business model emphasizes efficiency, indicating a culture that values streamlined workflows and continuous improvement in project delivery methodologies.

• Strategic Project Delivery: The firm's success in delivering complex infrastructure projects implies a strategic approach to project management, risk mitigation, and stakeholder engagement.

Company Website: https://cordobacorp.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Cordoba Corporation positions itself as a reputable and established firm with a strong focus on impactful infrastructure projects. The company culture appears to value efficiency, collaboration, and employee well-being, which are key attributes for successful operations professionals.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior-level management position within the operations of a large engineering and construction firm. It requires significant autonomy in managing the A&E design phase of major capital projects, demonstrating leadership in strategic planning, vendor management, and risk mitigation.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager likely reports to a senior leader within the Facilities Sector, such as a Director of Facilities Design or VP of Operations. This position will manage a team of project coordinators or junior project managers, overseeing their day-to-day activities and professional development.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct and substantial impact on the company's operational success and client satisfaction. By ensuring efficient, compliant, and high-quality design delivery, the Design Manager contributes significantly to:

• Project Profitability: Effective budget management and scope control directly influence project profitability.

• Client Relationships: Successful project outcomes build trust and lead to repeat business, especially with public sector clients.

• Operational Efficiency: Streamlined design processes reduce overall project timelines and resource utilization.

• Risk Mitigation: Proactive identification and management of design-related risks prevent costly delays and legal issues.

• Brand Reputation: Delivering high-quality, impactful infrastructure projects enhances Cordoba's standing as a leading firm.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Leadership: Potential advancement to Director of Facilities Design, VP of Operations, or similar executive roles overseeing larger portfolios or broader operational functions.

• Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific areas like sustainable design, educational facility planning, or advanced construction technologies.

• Cross-functional Mobility: Potential to transition into broader program management roles or business development within the infrastructure sector.

• Professional Development: Support for continuing education, certifications (e.g., PMP, LEED AP), and industry conferences to stay abreast of evolving A&E and operations best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a significant step for operations professionals, offering leadership opportunities and direct impact on major projects. The growth trajectory points towards senior management within the operations or project delivery functions of the firm.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is designated as "Onsite," indicating a primary work location within a Cordoba Corporation office. This suggests a structured office environment conducive to collaboration, team meetings, and focused work.

Office Location(s): The primary location is Los Angeles, CA. Cordoba Corporation has a statewide presence with offices in San Francisco, Sacramento, San Ramon, Chatsworth, Santa Ana, Ontario, and San Diego. While this role is based in Los Angeles, potential for interaction or occasional travel to other regional offices may exist depending on project distribution.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The emphasis on managing A&E services and coordinating with multiple stakeholders implies a dynamic workspace where teamwork and communication are paramount. Expect regular meetings, design reviews, and collaborative sessions.

• Tools & Technology: Access to industry-standard design software, project management platforms, and communication tools will be essential for facilitating design processes and project coordination.

• Team Interaction: The role involves direct management of a team and close interaction with various internal departments and external consultants, fostering a highly interactive work setting.

Work Schedule: Standard full-time working hours are expected (approximately 40 hours per week). While the role is on-site, Cordoba Corporation's stated emphasis on employee well-being and efficiency suggests a professional atmosphere that respects work-life balance, though project demands may occasionally require extended hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement is typical for management roles requiring direct oversight and collaboration. The company's broader presence suggests a potentially supportive infrastructure for operations teams, even within a specific office location.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or a recruiter will likely conduct an initial screening to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit. Be prepared to discuss your career trajectory and high-level project experience.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A detailed discussion with the Hiring Manager (likely a Director or VP in Facilities) focusing on your experience with A&E project management, budget control, vendor selection, and team leadership. Expect behavioral questions related to managing complex situations.

• Team/Peer Interviews: Interviews with potential team members or peers from other departments (e.g., project controls, engineering leads) to evaluate collaboration style, technical understanding, and fit within the team dynamic.

• Portfolio Review Session: A dedicated session where you will present your portfolio, detailing specific projects, your role, challenges, solutions, and quantifiable results. This is a critical stage for demonstrating your operational capabilities.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior executive or cross-functional leader to finalize assessment of strategic thinking, leadership potential, and overall fit with Cordoba Corporation's vision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure for Impact: Organize your portfolio by project type (e.g., Capital Improvement, Facility Repair) or by key skill areas (e.g., Budget Management, Vendor Selection). Clearly articulate your specific role and contributions for each example.

• Quantify Achievements: Wherever possible, use numbers to demonstrate your impact: percentage of budget saved, reduction in project timeline, number of projects managed, size of projects (budget/scope), stakeholder satisfaction scores.

• Highlight Process & Methodology: Don't just show what you did, but how you did it. Explain your approach to design review, vendor selection, risk mitigation, and stakeholder communication. Use diagrams or flowcharts if helpful.

• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize projects and experiences that directly align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description, particularly those involving educational facilities or public agencies.

• Prepare for Questions: Anticipate questions about your decision-making process, how you handle conflict, and how you ensure compliance.

Challenge Preparation:

• Case Study Analysis: Be prepared for a potential case study exercise, either presented beforehand or during an interview. This might involve analyzing a hypothetical project scenario, identifying risks, and proposing a design management strategy.

• Process Design Exercise: You may be asked to outline a process for a specific task, such as selecting an architect for a particular project type or establishing a design review checklist. Focus on clarity, efficiency, and compliance.

• Stakeholder Management Scenarios: Practice articulating how you would communicate project status, manage conflicting stakeholder needs, or address design disagreements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview and portfolio review process for this role will heavily scrutinize a candidate's ability to demonstrate structured operational execution, not just technical knowledge. Candidates should prepare to articulate their methodologies and showcase tangible results.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency with industry-standard platforms such as Procore, Oracle Aconex, Autodesk Construction Cloud (including BIM 360), or similar systems for managing project documentation, schedules, RFIs, submittals, and change orders.

• BIM Software: Familiarity with Building Information Modeling (BIM) concepts and tools like Autodesk Revit, Navisworks, or Bentley Systems applications, particularly for design review and coordination.

• Document Management Systems: Experience with platforms for organizing, storing, and retrieving project-related documents, ensuring version control and accessibility.

• ERP/Financial Systems: Understanding of how design project costs integrate with broader enterprise resource planning or financial management systems.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret project data from various sources to identify trends, risks, and opportunities for improvement. This may involve using advanced Excel functions, or potentially BI tools like Tableau or Power BI if integrated into reporting.

• Reporting Dashboards: Experience in creating or utilizing project dashboards to communicate key performance indicators (KPIs) related to design progress, budget adherence, and compliance to stakeholders.

• Scheduling Software: Proficiency with tools like Microsoft Project or Primavera P6 for developing, managing, and analyzing project schedules.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM (Limited Scope): While not a direct sales role, an understanding of how client relationship management principles apply to public sector clients and managing consultant relationships is beneficial. Experience with systems that manage client interactions or project databases.

• Workflow Automation Tools: Familiarity with tools or concepts that automate repetitive tasks within the design or project management lifecycle, enhancing efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack for this role is centered around project delivery and management within the A&E and construction sectors. Proficiency in project management software, BIM tools, and data analysis for reporting is essential for effective operations management.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Delivery: A commitment to achieving high-quality outcomes in all aspects of project design and delivery, meeting or exceeding client expectations and industry standards.

• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding ethical standards in all dealings, taking ownership of responsibilities, and ensuring transparency in project management and financial reporting.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive environment where diverse teams work together effectively, sharing knowledge and resources to achieve common goals.

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

• Client Focus: Prioritizing the needs and objectives of the client (in this case, the District and its stakeholders), ensuring projects deliver maximum value and support educational/operational missions.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively engaging with various internal departments (e.g., legal, finance, procurement) and external partners (architects, engineers, contractors) to ensure seamless project execution and alignment.

• Open Communication: Promoting a culture of transparent and frequent communication, encouraging feedback, and proactively addressing potential issues or conflicts.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Cordoba Corporation's culture appears to be built around professionalism, collaborative problem-solving, and a dedication to impactful project delivery. Operations professionals will find a structured environment that values efficiency and ethical conduct.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Competing Priorities: Balancing the demands of multiple concurrent projects, each with unique stakeholders, budgets, and timelines, requires exceptional organizational and prioritization skills.

• Navigating Complex Stakeholder Landscapes: Effectively managing expectations and communication with diverse groups, including District administrators, educational staff, community members, and regulatory bodies, can be challenging.

• Ensuring Budgetary Adherence: Controlling costs within large capital projects, especially when faced with unforeseen site conditions or scope changes, demands rigorous financial oversight and strategic decision-making.

• Maintaining Design Quality & Compliance: Ensuring all designs meet stringent regulatory standards, District guidelines, and functional requirements while also fostering innovation presents a constant balancing act.

• Adapting to Evolving Standards & Technologies: Staying current with advancements in building codes, sustainable design practices, and A&E technologies requires continuous learning and adaptation.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Project Management Certifications: Pursuing PMP, PgMP, or other advanced project management credentials to enhance operational leadership skills.

• Specialized A&E Training: Opportunities to deepen knowledge in areas such as sustainable design (LEED AP), construction law, or specific building system technologies.

• Leadership Development Programs: Participation in internal or external programs focused on enhancing management, strategic planning, and executive communication skills.

• Industry Conferences & Networking: Attending relevant conferences (e.g., ACEC, AIA, CMAA events) to stay abreast of industry trends, best practices, and network with peers.

• Mentorship: Potential to be mentored by senior leaders within Cordoba Corporation or to mentor junior staff, fostering professional growth and knowledge transfer.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges inherent in large-scale project management within the public sector, offering substantial opportunities for professional growth and skill development in operations and leadership.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your methodology for managing the A&E design process for a multi-million dollar capital improvement project. What are the key phases and critical checkpoints?" (Focus on structured process, risk mitigation, stakeholder engagement).

• "How do you ensure that architectural and engineering designs align with both programmatic requirements and stringent budget constraints? Provide a specific example." (Highlight budget management techniques, value engineering, change control processes).

• "Walk me through your process for selecting and managing architectural and engineering consultants. What criteria do you prioritize, and how do you ensure their performance meets expectations?" (Emphasize vendor evaluation, contract oversight, performance monitoring).

• "Describe a situation where you had to manage conflicting priorities or demands from different stakeholders on a project. How did you resolve it?" (Focus on communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills).

• "How do you stay current with evolving building codes, regulatory requirements, and design best practices relevant to educational facilities?" (Demonstrate commitment to continuous learning and industry awareness). Company & Culture Questions:

• "Based on your understanding of Cordoba Corporation, how do you see your role contributing to our mission of delivering impactful infrastructure projects?" (Connect your experience to the company's goals and values).

• "How do you foster a collaborative environment among design teams, project managers, and external consultants?" (Discuss your approach to communication, team building, and conflict resolution).

• "What are your expectations regarding work-life balance, and how do you manage demanding project schedules while maintaining team well-being?" (Show understanding of professional expectations and employee support). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Executive Summary: Begin with a concise overview of your career and the types of projects you've managed, highlighting key achievements relevant to the Design

Manager role.

• Project Deep Dives: Select 2-3 of your most relevant projects. For each:

  • Clearly define the project scope, budget, and your specific role.
  • Detail the challenges faced (budget, schedule, technical, stakeholder).
  • Explain your operational approach to overcoming these challenges (process, tools, collaboration).
  • Present quantifiable results and lessons learned.

• Process & Methodology Focus: Dedicate a section to illustrating your core operational methodologies for design management, vendor selection, budget control, and compliance. Use visual aids if possible.

• Q&A Readiness: Be prepared to answer in-depth questions about any aspect of your portfolio and your operational decision-making processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not just technical knowledge but a robust understanding of operational management, process optimization, and strategic decision-making within the context of A&E project delivery.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on the Cordoba Corporation careers portal.

• Curate Your Operations Portfolio: Select 3-5 key projects that best showcase your experience in managing A&E design for capital improvements and facility repairs. Focus on demonstrating your processes for budget management, vendor selection, compliance, and stakeholder communication. Quantify your achievements with specific metrics.

• Optimize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight keywords and responsibilities mentioned in the job description, such as "A&E Services," "Capital Improvement," "Budget Management," "Contract Administration," "Design Review," and "Public Agency Projects." Emphasize your years of experience and any relevant licenses or certifications.

• Prepare Your Portfolio Presentation: Practice walking through your selected portfolio examples, clearly articulating your operational strategies, the challenges you faced, and the quantifiable results you achieved. Be ready to discuss your project management methodologies in detail.

• Research Cordoba Corporation: Familiarize yourself with the company's history, key projects (especially in the Facilities Sector), values, and recent news. Understand their approach to efficiency and client relationships, and be prepared to articulate how your operational philosophy aligns with theirs.

⚠️ 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.