Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager (Building Group)

Company: EllisDon

Location: Edmonton, Alberta, Canada

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Construction Management / Design Operations

Date Posted: May 15, 2026

Experience Level: 8-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversee the strategic development and execution of design proposals for complex P3 and design-build projects within the Building Group.

• Lead and mentor multidisciplinary design teams to deliver compliant, innovative, and cost-effective design solutions aligned with RFP requirements.

• Drive the analysis of project requirements, ensuring designs meet all specifications while adhering to stringent budgetary constraints and project timelines.

• Manage the entire design submission process, including the creation of technical narratives, drawing packages, and collaborative meeting presentations.

• Foster strong relationships with partner consultants, trade contractors, and clients to ensure seamless project delivery and design compliance.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within EllisDon's Building Group, indicating a focus on the physical construction and development aspects of projects. The emphasis on P3 (Public-Private Partnership) and Design-Build project types suggests a need for strong understanding of complex contractual frameworks and integrated project delivery methodologies, typical in large-scale infrastructure and building projects. The requirement for CSID Secret Level Security Clearance is a critical differentiator, pointing to potential work on sensitive government or secure facilities, requiring a high degree of trust and background verification.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design Proposal Management: Lead the development of compelling design proposals for P3 and design-build opportunities, ensuring alignment with EllisDon's strategic objectives and client needs.

• Team Leadership & Coordination: Manage, mentor, and guide diverse design teams (architects, engineers, specialists) to produce compliant, innovative, and aggressive design solutions that meet RFP requirements.

• Requirement Analysis & Strategy: Conduct thorough analysis of project requirements, RFP documentation, and Statement of Requirements (SOR) / Project Agreements to inform design strategies and ensure optimal outcomes.

• Budgetary & Schedule Adherence: Develop and implement design strategies that maintain budgetary requirements and contribute to the creation of realistic project schedules and logistic plans.

• Technical Submission Development: Oversee the creation of comprehensive technical submissions, including detailed design and construction narratives, drawing packages, and collaborative meeting presentations.

• Consultant & Contractor Management: Coordinate and manage consultant contracts and scopes of work, ensuring alignment with the proposed design and project agreements. Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with partner consultants and trade contractors.

• Estimating Collaboration: Work closely with the estimating team to ensure design assumptions are clearly documented, managed, and contained within project budgets, facilitating accurate cost projections.

• Client & Stakeholder Engagement: Develop and maintain strong client relations, actively participating in collaborative meetings and presenting design solutions effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of strategic leadership, technical oversight, and interpersonal skills. The emphasis on "aggressive design solutions" suggests a need for creative problem-solving under tight constraints, common in competitive design-build environments. The inclusion of "Statement of Requirements / Project Agreement" management points to a deep understanding of contractual obligations and compliance, crucial in P3 projects.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• Eight to ten (8-10) years of progressive experience in Design Management, specifically within the construction industry.

Required Skills:

• Design Management: Proven ability to lead and manage the entire design process from proposal to execution.

• P3 & Design-Build Expertise: In-depth understanding of P3 and Design-Build project procurement and delivery methodologies.

• RFP Analysis & Response: Strong capability in analyzing RFP requirements, developing compliant strategies, and managing submission processes.

• Team Leadership & Mentoring: Ability to confidently mentor, delegate to, and lead large, multidisciplinary design teams.

• Budgetary Management: Skill in developing and managing design solutions within strict budgetary parameters.

• Project Scheduling: Working knowledge of project scheduling principles and tools.

• Contract Management: Familiarity with managing consultant contracts and scopes of work.

• Technical Documentation: Proficiency in developing technical submissions, narratives, and drawing packages.

• Client Relations: Excellent ability to develop and maintain strong relationships with clients and stakeholders.

• Security Clearance: Must possess, or be eligible for, CSID (PWSGC) Secret Level Security Clearance.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in estimating and project management.

• Working knowledge of contract software and project management software.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a construction-related degree combined with 8-10 years of specific Design Management experience sets a clear benchmark for candidates. The explicit mention of CSID Secret Level Security Clearance is a non-negotiable requirement that will significantly filter the applicant pool. Preferred skills in estimating and project management indicate that candidates with a broader understanding of the project lifecycle will be highly valued.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Proposal Examples: Showcase examples of successful design proposals for P3 and Design-Build projects, detailing your role, the challenges, and the strategic approach taken.

• Design Development Case Studies: Present case studies demonstrating your management of design teams, coordination of disciplines, and the development of compliant and innovative solutions under tight deadlines.

• RFP Response Documentation: Include examples of technical submissions, design narratives, or drawing packages developed for complex RFPs, highlighting your contribution to meeting specific requirements.

• Budgetary & Schedule Management: Provide evidence of how you've managed design to meet budgetary constraints and contributed to realistic project schedules and logistic plans.

• Consultant & Stakeholder Management: Demonstrate your ability to manage consultant contracts and foster strong relationships through project examples.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Document your approach to designing and optimizing workflows for design teams, ensuring efficiency and compliance.

• Collaboration Frameworks: Illustrate processes for effective collaboration between internal design teams, external consultants, trade contractors, and estimating departments.

• Risk Management in Design: Showcase your methodology for identifying and mitigating design-related risks, particularly concerning cost, schedule, and compliance.

• Performance Measurement: Outline how you track and measure the performance of design teams and the effectiveness of design solutions against project objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role, a portfolio is crucial for demonstrating practical experience. The emphasis should be on showcasing strategic thinking, leadership in complex project environments, and the ability to translate requirements into tangible design outcomes that are both compliant and competitive. Evidence of managing diverse teams and navigating contractual complexities in P3/Design-Build scenarios will be highly valued.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Competitive Compensation Package: Includes base salary, potential for performance-based bonuses, and recognition for contributions.

• Continuous Learning & Development: Access to ongoing training programs, workshops, and opportunities to enhance construction and design management skills.

• Opportunity for Growth: Clear career progression paths within EllisDon's Building Group and across other divisions, offering advancement to senior leadership roles.

• Comprehensive Health & Wellness: Includes medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage.

• Retirement Savings Plan: Contributions to a company-sponsored pension or retirement savings plan.

• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation days, sick leave, and statutory holidays.

• Professional Development Support: Assistance with professional accreditations, certifications, and conference attendance.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are typically 40 hours per week. However, given the demanding nature of P3 and Design-Build projects, some flexibility may be required to meet project deadlines, especially during critical RFP periods or site-specific development phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate reflects the seniority and specialized skillset required, particularly the security clearance. The benefits package is tailored to attract and retain experienced professionals in the construction sector, emphasizing professional development and long-term career prospects.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction and Infrastructure Development. EllisDon operates across the full project lifecycle, from pre-construction and design to construction and post-construction services, with a significant focus on large-scale, complex projects including P3 initiatives.

Company Size: Large enterprise (over 1,000 employees), indicating a structured environment with established processes and significant project capacity.

Founded: 1951. With a long history, EllisDon has built a reputation for delivering major projects and fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager will likely be part of the Building Group's pre-construction or project delivery team, working within a larger project team structure.

• The role involves direct management of design consultants (architects, engineers) and close collaboration with estimating, project management, and construction execution teams.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: EllisDon emphasizes using data and analytics to inform design and construction strategies, optimize project delivery, and manage risks.

• Integrated Project Delivery: The company champions collaborative approaches, such as P3 and Design-Build, fostering strong partnerships with clients, consultants, and trade partners.

• Innovation & Technology Adoption: EllisDon actively seeks and implements innovative solutions and technologies to enhance efficiency, safety, and project outcomes, including AI tools for applicant screening.

• Client-Centric Approach: A strong focus on understanding and meeting client needs, building long-term relationships based on trust and successful project delivery.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: EllisDon's long-standing presence and commitment to values like Integrity, Mutual Respect, and Mutual Accountability shape its culture. The emphasis on Inclusive Diversity and celebrating differences is a key aspect of their employee value proposition. The use of AI tools in recruitment highlights a forward-thinking approach to talent acquisition.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Senior Management role, responsible for critical design strategy and team leadership on high-value projects. It sits at a pivotal point between pre-construction strategy and project execution.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will report to senior leadership within the Building Group (e.g., Director of Pre-construction, VP of Design) and will directly manage external design consultants and potentially internal design coordinators. This structure allows for significant autonomy in design strategy while maintaining accountability to executive stakeholders.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's influence is substantial, directly impacting project feasibility, cost-effectiveness, compliance, and ultimately, the success of winning and delivering complex P3 and Design-Build projects. Their strategic decisions in the design phase have long-term implications for project budget, schedule, and client satisfaction.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Leadership Roles: Progression to roles such as Director of Design, Director of Pre-construction, or Project Director for major P3 initiatives.

• Specialized Expertise: Deepening expertise in specific project types (e.g., healthcare, transportation, institutional) or advanced design technologies.

• Cross-Functional Development: Opportunities to move into broader project management, business development, or operational leadership roles within EllisDon.

• Mentorship & Training: Developing leadership capabilities through mentoring junior staff and contributing to EllisDon's internal training programs.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear pathway for experienced design professionals to move into senior leadership positions within a major construction firm. The emphasis on P3 and Design-Build projects provides exposure to complex contractual and delivery models, which are highly valued in the industry.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in an office environment, likely within EllisDon's Edmonton office. This setting will facilitate collaboration with internal teams, clients, and consultants.

Office Location(s): Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. This location suggests potential involvement in major infrastructure and building projects within the region.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The office environment will foster interaction with project teams, including estimators, project managers, and schedulers, promoting a holistic approach to project development.

• Technological Resources: Access to necessary design software, project management tools, and communication platforms to support the demands of the role.

• Team Interaction: Frequent opportunities for team meetings, design reviews, and strategic planning sessions with colleagues and external partners.

Work Schedule: While the standard is 40 hours per week, the dynamic nature of construction project development, particularly for P3 and Design-Build RFPs, may necessitate extended hours or weekend work during critical phases to meet submission deadlines and project milestones.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature of the role is typical for Design Managers in construction, enabling direct collaboration and oversight crucial for complex projects. The Edmonton location places the role within a significant economic hub in Western Canada, likely involving substantial project opportunities.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio by HR and potentially an AI screening tool, focusing on required experience, qualifications, and especially eligibility for CSID Secret Level Security Clearance.

• Hiring Manager Interview: In-depth discussion with the Hiring Manager (likely a Director or VP) to assess technical expertise, leadership style, understanding of P3/Design-Build, and cultural fit. Expect questions on past project experience and problem-solving approaches.

• Team/Panel Interview: Meeting with key stakeholders, which may include senior project managers, estimators, or other design leads. This stage assesses collaboration skills and how you integrate with the existing team.

• Case Study/Presentation: Candidates may be asked to present a detailed case study from their portfolio, focusing on a complex design challenge, their strategic solution, team management, and the outcomes achieved. This is a critical opportunity to showcase portfolio content.

• Final Interview & Offer: Final discussion with senior leadership, potentially including reference checks.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your most relevant projects that best showcase your Design Management experience in P3 and Design-Build scenarios. Prioritize projects with similar scope and complexity to EllisDon's work.

• Focus on Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the challenge, your strategic approach, your specific role and contributions, the team you managed, and the quantifiable results (e.g., budget savings, schedule improvements, successful RFP win, design innovation).

• Highlight Process: Detail your process for leading design teams, managing consultants, ensuring compliance, and integrating with estimating and project management functions.

• Visual Aids: Use clear visuals such as concept drawings, site plans, or key design elements where appropriate, but ensure the focus remains on your strategic and managerial contributions.

• Address Security Clearance: Be prepared to discuss your eligibility for CSID Secret Level Security Clearance and any steps you have taken or are willing to take.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Strategy Scenario: Be ready to discuss how you would approach developing a design strategy for a hypothetical P3 project with ambiguous requirements and tight budget constraints.

• Team Conflict Resolution: Prepare examples of how you have managed disagreements or conflicts within design teams or between consultants and stakeholders.

• RFP Compliance: Be ready to explain your process for ensuring all RFP requirements are met throughout the design development lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to thoroughly vet candidates for technical acumen, leadership capability, and suitability for a high-security environment. A well-prepared portfolio that directly addresses the requirements of P3/Design-Build projects and demonstrates leadership is paramount.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD/BIM Software: Proficiency with industry-standard Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Building Information Modeling (BIM) software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit, Navisworks) is expected for understanding and reviewing design deliverables.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with project management platforms such as MS Project, Primavera P6, Procore, or similar, for scheduling and project oversight.

• Collaboration Platforms: Experience with collaboration tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for team communication and document sharing.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Estimating Software: Understanding of how design information integrates with estimating software (e.g., Timberline, iSqFt) is beneficial.

• Document Management Systems: Experience with document control and management systems used in construction projects.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design requirements feed into business development and client relationship management is advantageous.

• Familiarity with workflow automation tools that could streamline design review or approval processes, though not explicitly required, would be a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role requires a strong understanding of the technical tools used in design and project management, even if direct day-to-day operation isn't the primary focus. The ability to effectively review and interpret deliverables from these systems is key.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity and Mutual Respect: Upholding ethical standards in all dealings and fostering an environment where all team members are treated with dignity. This translates to transparent communication with design teams, consultants, and clients.

• Mutual Accountability: Taking ownership of design outcomes, project responsibilities, and contributing to the collective success of the team and project. This means ensuring design decisions are well-justified and managed.

• Innovation: Encouraging creative problem-solving and the exploration of new design approaches and technologies to deliver better project results.

• Collaboration: Actively working with diverse internal and external teams to achieve shared project goals, emphasizing open communication and shared problem-solving.

• Inclusive Diversity: Commitment to creating an environment where every employee feels safe, valued, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives, fostering a rich team dynamic.

Collaboration Style:

• Partnership-Oriented: Fostering a collaborative spirit with consultants, trade contractors, and internal departments (estimating, project management) to ensure a unified approach to project delivery.

• Proactive Communication: Regularly engaging with stakeholders to provide updates, address concerns, and facilitate informed decision-making throughout the design process.

• Feedback-Driven: Creating an open environment for constructive feedback among team members and partners to continuously improve design quality and project execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: EllisDon's core values are central to its operational philosophy. For a Design Manager, embodying these values means leading with integrity, fostering teamwork, being accountable for design decisions, and actively promoting an inclusive environment for all project stakeholders.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Competing Demands: Effectively managing the inherent tension between aggressive design solutions, stringent budgetary constraints, tight schedules, and client expectations in P3/Design-Build projects.

• Navigating Complex Contracts: Ensuring design compliance with intricate P3 agreements and Statements of Requirements, which can be subject to interpretation and change.

• Leading Diverse Teams: Effectively leading and motivating a variety of design professionals (architects, engineers from different firms) with potentially differing priorities and working styles.

• Security Clearance Requirements: The necessity of obtaining and maintaining CSID Secret Level Security Clearance is a significant hurdle that requires diligent effort and adherence to strict protocols.

• Rapid Industry Evolution: Staying abreast of evolving construction technologies, sustainable design practices, and new materials to ensure EllisDon's proposals remain competitive and forward-thinking.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Project Management: Opportunities to deepen expertise in managing large-scale, complex P3 and Design-Build projects, including contract negotiation and risk management.

• Leadership Development Programs: EllisDon's commitment to continuous learning provides access to leadership training, executive coaching, and mentorship opportunities.

• Industry Conferences & Certifications: Support for attending relevant industry events and pursuing certifications in areas like P3 project management or sustainable design.

• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Potential to gain exposure to other facets of EllisDon's business, such as infrastructure, finance, or client relations, broadening professional development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are representative of senior roles in complex construction environments. The growth opportunities are substantial, offering a clear path for career advancement and skill enhancement within a leading construction firm.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for developing a winning design strategy for a P3 Design-Build RFP, focusing on how you balance compliance, innovation, and cost-effectiveness." (Be prepared to discuss RFP analysis, team mobilization, risk assessment, and value engineering.)

• "How do you manage and motivate a diverse team of external consultants and internal stakeholders to achieve a common design goal under pressure?" (Focus on communication, conflict resolution, delegation, and fostering a collaborative environment.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about EllisDon's values, particularly Inclusive Diversity and Mutual Accountability, and how would you apply them in your role as Design Manager?" (Research EllisDon's website, values page, and impact reports.)

• "How do you see the role of a Design Manager contributing to EllisDon's overall success in the competitive construction market?" (Connect your responsibilities to the company's strategic objectives.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each selected project, use a STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) or similar framework. Clearly define the problem, your role, the actions you took, and the positive outcomes.

• Quantify Achievements: Wherever possible, use numbers and data to illustrate your impact (e.g., "Reduced design development time by 15%," "Secured a $5M cost saving through value engineering," "Contributed to winning an RFP valued at $200M").

• Highlight Leadership & Process: Emphasize your leadership in managing teams, your systematic approach to design development, and your ability to collaborate effectively.

• Address Security: Be prepared to discuss your security clearance status and your understanding of the responsibilities that come with it.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should heavily focus on the unique aspects of P3/Design-Build projects, your leadership in managing complex design processes, and your ability to integrate with EllisDon's culture and values. The security clearance is a critical filter; be ready to address it proactively.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided Workday careers portal link.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and portfolio to specifically highlight your experience in P3 and Design-Build projects, emphasizing your design management responsibilities, team leadership, and successful RFP outcomes.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly details your 8-10 years of relevant experience, construction-related degree, and explicitly mentions your eligibility for CSID Secret Level Security Clearance. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Interview Preparation: Rehearse answers to common interview questions, focusing on strategic thinking, problem-solving, and leadership. Prepare a concise presentation of one or two key portfolio projects.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research EllisDon's company culture, values, recent projects, and their approach to P3 and Design-Build delivery. Understand their commitment to Inclusive Diversity.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details, particularly regarding salary ranges, benefits, and specific process requirements, should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions. The CSID Secret Level Security Clearance is a critical, non-negotiable requirement.