Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager

Company: DASNY

Location: New York, NY

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Construction & Design Management

Date Posted: July 21, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversees the end-to-end project lifecycle for DASNY's construction initiatives, focusing on the critical pre-design and design phases.

• Manages and reviews complex architectural and engineering designs, plans, specifications, and change orders to ensure compliance with DASNY guidelines, client agency requirements, and applicable codes.

• Conducts rigorous construction observation and site visits to monitor the quality of work performed by architects, engineers, consultants, and contractors.

• Acts as a key liaison between DASNY, clients, and regulatory agencies, facilitating communication and resolving project-specific issues.

• Manages consultant contracts, including the review and approval of payment requests, contract amendments, and closeout procedures.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Design Manager" title combined with responsibilities like "construction observation," "review of highly technical designs," and managing "architectural/engineering reports" strongly suggests a role focused on the technical oversight of construction projects from a design perspective, rather than pure creative design. The focus is on ensuring projects meet technical specifications, regulatory standards, and client objectives.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the project development process during the pre-design and design phases, ensuring alignment with DASNY and customer agency objectives.

• Manage all aspects of consultant contracts, including the timely review and approval of payment requests, amendments, schedule extensions, and contract closeout procedures.

• Conduct periodic site visits to active construction projects to meticulously monitor the quality of design and construction work executed by all involved parties.

• Perform detailed reviews of highly technical designs, plans, specifications, addenda, and change orders, identifying potential issues and ensuring compliance.

• Provide essential technical assistance and strategic recommendations to unit staff, Project Management teams, and client representatives to facilitate project success.

• Coordinate closely with Project Management to proactively identify and resolve project and/or program-specific issues that may arise.

• Undertake independent, in-depth investigations of specific project problems, providing comprehensive architectural/engineering analysis and actionable recommendations.

• Serve as the primary technical point of contact for regulatory agencies, interpreting and ensuring adherence to applicable codes and regulations.

• Review and approve construction change orders and conduct thorough interim and final project inspections for large and complex projects.

• Prepare detailed reports for management and clients, documenting project progress, findings, and recommendations.

• Assist in the development, compilation, and distribution of critical technical data and project documentation.

• Facilitate plan reviews for healthcare projects under Title 10 Public Health Law for Article 28 certified facilities, ensuring regulatory compliance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a hybrid role blending project management with technical architectural/engineering oversight. The emphasis on "review of highly technical designs," "construction observation," and "site visits" points to a need for practical, on-the-ground expertise in construction project execution, not just theoretical design. The mention of specific regulations like "Title 10 Public Health Law" for "healthcare projects" highlights a specialized area of focus.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture or a related field.

• An Associate's degree may be considered with a minimum of eight years of relevant architectural experience. Experience:

• Minimum of five years of relevant architectural experience, with a strong emphasis on building and/or facilities construction.

• Two years of supervisory experience, or successful completion of designated supervisory training during probation.

• For Associate's degree holders, a total of at least eight years of relevant experience and two years of supervisory experience are required. Required Skills:

• Proven project management capabilities, with a focus on managing design and construction phases.

• Strong architectural analysis and design review skills, with the ability to interpret complex plans and specifications.

• Expertise in construction observation and site inspection protocols to ensure quality standards.

• Demonstrated ability to manage consultant contracts, including payment approvals and contract closeout.

• Thorough understanding of building codes and regulatory requirements, particularly in New York State.

• Excellent oral and written communication skills for effective stakeholder engagement and reporting.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to address project challenges.

• Proficiency in PC applications, including Microsoft Outlook, Excel, Word, and Access for daily operations and reporting.

• Ability to understand and adapt to project management software and evolving technologies. Preferred Skills:

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture.

• Licensed and registered as a Registered Architect (RA) in New York State.

• Five or more years of relevant post-license experience in the design and construction of higher education and/or healthcare facilities.

• Minimum of two years of supervisory experience.

• Valid driver's license.

📝 Enhancement Note: The preferred qualifications, particularly the New York State Registered Architect license and experience with higher education/healthcare facilities, indicate a specialized and senior-level role. The requirement for a valid driver's license is essential given the travel and site visit components of the role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Management Case Studies: Showcase examples of construction projects managed from pre-design through construction, detailing scope, budget, timeline, and key challenges overcome. Highlight your role in managing design consultants and construction teams.

• Design Review Documentation: Include samples of design reviews, architectural/engineering report assessments, or plan review comments that demonstrate your ability to identify technical issues and ensure code compliance.

• Consultant Contract Management Examples: Provide evidence of your experience in managing consultant contracts, including examples of payment approvals, change order negotiations, or contract closeout procedures.

• Site Inspection Reports: Present examples of site inspection reports or construction observation documentation that illustrate your focus on quality control and adherence to design specifications.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Demonstrate your ability to document and optimize workflows for design review, consultant selection, construction observation, and project closeout processes.

• Implementation & Automation: Highlight any experience in implementing new processes or leveraging technology (e.g., project management software) to improve efficiency and accuracy in design and construction management.

• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Show how you track and report on project performance metrics, consultant performance, and construction quality, linking these to project outcomes and organizational goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role like this, a portfolio should not just list projects but demonstrate the candidate's process and impact. Focus on structured project examples that clearly articulate the problem, solution, and results, with an emphasis on technical review, risk mitigation, and successful project delivery within regulatory frameworks.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $107,231 - $133,274 annually (Includes a downstate location differential of $5,054)

Benefits:

• Choice of several comprehensive health insurance plans.

• Dental and vision insurance coverage.

• Membership in the New York State Retirement System, providing a secure pension.

• Deferred Compensation Investment Plan for additional retirement savings.

• Generous paid time off:

  • 13 vacation days per year
  • 13 sick days per year
  • 5 days of personal leave per year
  • 12 paid holidays per year, plus one float day.

• Tuition reimbursement program to support continued education and professional development.

• Access to training and development opportunities to enhance skills.

• Limited Work from Home (LWFH) options available according to DASNY's Telecommuting Program Guidelines, eligible after six months of employment.

• Eligibility for the Public Services Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF Program), offering potential student loan forgiveness for qualifying individuals.

Working Hours: 38 hours per week. Overtime or extended work hours may be required as needed.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is specific and includes a location differential, which is common for metropolitan areas. The benefits package is robust, typical of public sector organizations, and includes retirement, comprehensive insurance, and significant paid time off, along with professional development and student loan forgiveness opportunities.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Public Sector / Government Agency (Specializing in Financing and Construction Services for Public Institutions)

Company Size: DASNY is a large state agency, employing a significant number of professionals across various disciplines. This size suggests a structured environment with established processes and potential for diverse career paths.

Founded: The Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY) was established in 1969. Its long history indicates stability and deep experience in serving public and non-profit entities.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager will likely be part of a larger Project Management or Technical Services department.

• The team structure may involve direct reports (potentially junior designers or project coordinators) and close collaboration with Project Managers, architects, engineers, and construction professionals.

• Reporting lines are typically hierarchical within government agencies, with clear oversight and management structures. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Operations within DASNY are expected to be guided by data, project metrics, and adherence to regulatory requirements and established best practices.

• Process Optimization: Continuous improvement of workflows for design review, consultant management, and construction oversight is likely a key focus to ensure efficiency and compliance.

• Compliance and Risk Management: A strong emphasis is placed on adhering to all applicable laws, codes, and regulations, with robust internal controls to mitigate risk on public projects.

Company Website: www.dasny.org

📝 Enhancement Note: As a state agency, DASNY likely operates with a formal structure, emphasizing compliance, accountability, and public service. The culture would be geared towards reliability, due diligence, and stakeholder satisfaction for the institutions it serves.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior Professional (Grade 6)

This level signifies a position of significant responsibility, requiring substantial experience and the ability to manage complex projects and potentially supervise staff. It is a mid-to-senior level role within the architectural and construction management domain.

Reporting Structure:

The Design Manager will report to a higher-level manager within the Project Management, Design, or Technical Services division. They may also supervise junior staff, acting as a mentor and team lead. Collaboration with Project Managers and other department heads is crucial.

Operations Impact:

The Design Manager's role has a direct impact on the successful execution of critical infrastructure projects for New York State's public and non-profit institutions. Effective design management ensures projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards of quality and safety, ultimately benefiting students, patients, and the public.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to move into Director-level roles within Project Management or Design oversight, managing larger teams and portfolios.

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific facility types (e.g., healthcare, higher education) or project delivery methods.

• Policy Development: Contribute to the development and refinement of DASNY's design standards, construction guidelines, and internal policies.

• Mentorship: Develop leadership skills by mentoring junior staff and leading project teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Grade/Classification: 6 (D1) – Senior Professional" indicates a well-defined career ladder within DASNY, suggesting clear pathways for advancement and professional development. The emphasis on public service projects offers a unique growth trajectory focused on impactful infrastructure development.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Primarily an office-based role with significant fieldwork requirements. The official station is a standard office environment, likely equipped with typical office amenities and technology.

Office Location(s): New York City Office. Specific address details would be provided upon inquiry or during the interview process.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role requires extensive collaboration with internal teams (Project Management, technical staff) and external partners (clients, consultants, contractors).

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to project management software, CAD viewers, and standard office productivity suites (Microsoft Office) is expected. The role also involves using technical equipment on construction sites.

• Team Interaction: Frequent meetings, site visits, and communication with project stakeholders are integral to the role.

Work Schedule:

Standard full-time hours (38 per week) are expected, with the flexibility to work overtime or extended hours as project demands require. Travel is a significant component, requiring adaptability to varying schedules and locations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role, balancing office-based work with frequent construction site visits, necessitates strong organizational skills and the ability to adapt to different working conditions. The emphasis on travel and potential for extended hours is a key characteristic of construction management roles.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and application to assess minimum qualifications and relevant experience.

• Technical Interview: In-depth discussion covering architectural design principles, construction methods, code compliance, project management methodologies, and experience with relevant facility types (higher education, healthcare). Expect scenario-based questions related to design challenges or site issues.

• Portfolio Review: Presentation of a curated portfolio showcasing key projects, design reviews, and contract management experience. Be prepared to discuss your specific contributions, decision-making processes, and outcomes.

• Behavioral/Situational Interview: Assessment of leadership, communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills. Questions will likely focus on how you handle conflict, manage teams, and collaborate with diverse stakeholders.

• Final Interview: May involve senior management or department heads, focusing on strategic fit and long-term potential within DASNY.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your most impactful projects that best demonstrate your experience in design management, construction oversight, and project delivery for complex facilities.

• Focus on Process & Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the scope, your specific role and responsibilities, the design challenges, the solutions implemented, and the measurable outcomes (e.g., budget adherence, timeline efficiency, quality improvements).

• Highlight Technical Expertise: Showcase examples of design reviews, code compliance checks, and problem-solving related to technical aspects of construction.

• Demonstrate Management Skills: Include examples of consultant contract management, team supervision, and stakeholder communication.

• Prepare Concise Explanations: Be ready to walk through your portfolio efficiently, highlighting key achievements and lessons learned.

Challenge Preparation:

• Code Compliance Scenarios: Be prepared to discuss how you would approach ensuring compliance with specific building codes or regulations (e.g., NYS Building Code, healthcare facility regulations).

• Problem-Solving Exercises: Anticipate questions asking how you would address common construction issues like design conflicts, contractor disputes, or unexpected site conditions.

• Project Management Simulation: You might be asked to outline a project plan for a hypothetical DASNY project, including key phases, deliverables, and risk mitigation strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a government agency like DASNY is often thorough and multi-staged. A strong portfolio that clearly demonstrates technical proficiency, project management skills, and adherence to regulatory standards will be critical for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency with industry-standard project management platforms (e.g., Procore, Primavera P6, Microsoft Project) for tracking project progress, managing schedules, and coordinating tasks.

• CAD Software: Ability to read and interpret drawings from AutoCAD, Revit, or similar platforms. While not necessarily a CAD operator, understanding the output is crucial.

• Microsoft Office Suite:

  • Excel: Advanced skills for data analysis, budget tracking, creating reports, and managing spreadsheets.
  • Word: For generating reports, correspondence, and documentation.
  • Outlook: For email communication, calendar management, and scheduling meetings.
  • Access: Potentially used for managing databases or project-specific information.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Tools for analyzing project performance data, tracking budgets, and monitoring construction quality. This may involve custom dashboards or reporting features within project management software. CRM & Automation:

• While not a traditional CRM role, understanding how project data flows and is managed within DASNY's systems is important. Familiarity with systems that automate workflow approvals or document management would be beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "Proficiency in PC applications, such as Outlook, Excel, Word, Access" and "Knowledge of Project Management software and ability to adapt to evolving technology" highlights the need for strong technical literacy. The ability to adapt to evolving technology suggests DASNY may use proprietary or less common project management systems.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding the highest ethical standards in managing public funds and projects, ensuring transparency and accountability.

• Excellence & Quality: Commitment to delivering high-quality construction projects that meet stringent standards and serve the public good effectively.

• Collaboration & Partnership: Fostering strong working relationships with internal teams, clients, consultants, and contractors to achieve shared project goals.

• Efficiency & Resourcefulness: Optimizing the use of resources and implementing efficient processes to deliver projects within budget and on schedule.

• Public Service: A dedication to serving the needs of New York State's educational, healthcare, and non-profit institutions.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The Design Manager must work seamlessly with Project Managers, legal teams, finance departments, and construction personnel.

• Stakeholder Communication: Proactive and clear communication is essential for managing expectations and resolving issues with clients, regulatory bodies, and project teams.

• Process Review Culture: A willingness to participate in reviews of existing processes and contribute to improvements in design and construction management practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at DASNY is likely shaped by its public service mission, emphasizing diligence, adherence to regulations, and a commitment to serving the broader community through infrastructure development.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Public Sector Bureaucracy: Understanding and adhering to the complex procurement processes, regulations, and approval chains inherent in a government agency.

• Managing Diverse Stakeholder Needs: Balancing the requirements and expectations of various clients, regulatory bodies, and internal departments, each with potentially competing priorities.

• Ensuring Quality on Large-Scale Projects: Maintaining consistent quality control across multiple large and complex construction projects, often in challenging environments.

• Adapting to Evolving Technologies: Staying current with new construction materials, techniques, and project management technologies while working within established agency systems.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Project Management Certifications: Opportunities to pursue certifications such as PMP (Project Management Professional) or specialized construction management credentials.

• Industry Conferences & Training: Participation in conferences and workshops focused on architectural design trends, construction technology, and public sector project delivery.

• Mentorship Programs: Potential to be mentored by senior leadership or to mentor junior staff, developing leadership and management skills.

• Exposure to Diverse Projects: Gaining experience across a wide range of facility types and project scales, broadening expertise in higher education, healthcare, and other institutional construction.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges inherent in public sector construction management are significant but also present unique opportunities for professional growth and skill development in areas like regulatory compliance and large-scale project execution.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to managing the design phase of a complex institutional project. What are the key milestones and potential pitfalls?"

  • Preparation: Outline a phased approach (pre-design, design development, construction documents), emphasizing client input, consultant coordination, scope management, and risk assessment.

• "How do you ensure compliance with building codes and regulatory requirements throughout the design and construction process?"

  • Preparation: Discuss your knowledge of relevant codes (e.g., IBC, NFPA, state-specific codes), your process for design reviews, and how you engage with regulatory bodies.

• "Walk me through a challenging situation you faced managing a consultant or contractor, and how you resolved it."

  • Preparation: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to detail a specific example, highlighting your problem-solving, negotiation, and communication skills. Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about DASNY and its mission? How does your experience align with serving public institutions?"

  • Preparation: Research DASNY's website, recent projects, and mission statement. Connect your past experience with institutions like universities or hospitals to their public service goals.

• "How do you approach managing a team, and what is your philosophy on supervision and mentorship?"

  • Preparation: Discuss your leadership style, focusing on clear communication, setting expectations, providing feedback, and fostering professional development, referencing your supervisory experience.

• "Describe a time you had to balance competing priorities or stakeholder demands on a project. How did you manage it?"

  • Preparation: Provide an example that showcases your ability to prioritize, negotiate, and communicate effectively to achieve project objectives while managing diverse interests. Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or by the phase of work you want to highlight (e.g., design management, construction oversight).

• Storytelling: For each project, tell a compelling story that emphasizes the challenge, your role, the strategies you employed, and the positive outcomes. Use visuals where appropriate.

• Metrics: Quantify your achievements whenever possible (e.g., "managed a $50M project budget," "reduced design review time by 15%," "completed site inspections with zero major safety violations").

• Engagement: Be prepared for questions about your decision-making process, how you handle disagreements, and your specific technical contributions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviews for senior roles in public agencies often assess not only technical competence but also strategic thinking, leadership potential, and alignment with the organization's mission and values. A well-prepared candidate will demonstrate an understanding of public sector project delivery.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Ultipro recruiting portal.

• Tailor Your Resume: Ensure your resume clearly highlights your experience in architectural design management, construction project oversight, consultant contract management, and any supervisory roles. Use keywords from the job description such as "design review," "construction observation," "project development," and "regulatory compliance."

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a selection of your most relevant projects that showcase your expertise in managing architectural and construction projects. Focus on demonstrating your technical acumen, problem-solving skills, and successful project delivery.

• Research DASNY: Familiarize yourself with DASNY's mission, recent projects, and the types of institutions they serve (higher education, healthcare). Understand their role in New York State's infrastructure development.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare to answer behavioral, technical, and situational questions using the STAR method, and practice presenting your portfolio concisely and effectively.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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