Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager

Company: Group PMX

Location: Bronx, NY (4 days a week on-site required)

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Construction Management / Design & Technical Oversight

Date Posted: 2026-08-14

Experience Level: 15+ Years

Remote Status: Hybrid (4 days on-site)

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversee design compliance and construction quality for large-scale projects, ensuring adherence to contract documents and project requirements.

• Manage technical coordination, including the review of RFIs, submittals, shop drawings, and material samples to maintain design integrity.

• Conduct rigorous field inspections and quality reviews to support regulatory readiness and project milestones.

• Drive project delivery by monitoring progress against scope, quality, schedule, and cost, recommending and implementing corrective actions.

• Facilitate cross-functional collaboration and issue resolution among diverse project stakeholders, including SMEs and regulatory bodies.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is critical for ensuring the successful execution of complex construction projects by bridging the gap between design intent and on-site implementation. The hybrid nature with a strong on-site requirement emphasizes hands-on oversight and direct engagement with project progress.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Ensure all designs, building systems, Requests for Information (RFIs), submittals, and construction activities strictly adhere to project specifications and contractual obligations.

• Conduct thorough reviews and coordinate the processing of RFIs, submittals, shop drawings, material samples, and mock-ups to confirm alignment with design intent.

• Perform regular field inspections, quality assurance checks, and pre-walkthroughs to facilitate regulatory inspections, testing procedures, and critical project milestones.

• Proactively monitor project progress concerning scope, quality, schedule, and budget, identifying deviations and proposing effective corrective actions.

• Coordinate specialized reviews with Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) for key building systems such as envelope, waterproofing, firestopping, Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP), life safety, acoustics, and security systems.

• Evaluate change order requests, providing detailed technical assessments and recommendations to inform decision-making.

• Act as a key facilitator in resolving design and construction-related issues among all project stakeholders to maintain project momentum.

• Prepare comprehensive field observation reports, meticulously documenting findings and tracking issues through to final project closeout.

• Maintain accurate and organized project documentation, ensuring adherence to established quality processes and record-keeping standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a deep dive into the technical and administrative aspects of construction project management, focusing on quality control, compliance, and stakeholder engagement. The emphasis on detailed reporting and issue tracking is crucial for risk mitigation and project success.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Construction Management, Engineering, or a closely related field.

Experience: A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in design review, construction administration, field inspections, and quality assurance, with a proven track record on complex projects.

Required Skills:

• Extensive experience in design review and construction administration for large-scale construction projects.

• Proven ability to conduct thorough field inspections and implement robust quality assurance programs.

• Strong understanding of building systems, including envelope, waterproofing, firestopping, MEP, life safety, acoustics, and security.

• Proficiency in managing RFIs, submittals, shop drawings, and material samples.

• Demonstrated experience in monitoring project progress against scope, quality, schedule, and cost, and implementing corrective actions.

• Excellent leadership, project management, and organizational skills.

• Strong verbal and written communication abilities, with a capacity for clear stakeholder coordination.

• Ability to manage multiple complex priorities simultaneously in a professional and confidential manner. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with high-rise, public sector, or large, complex construction projects.

• Direct experience in Design-Build project delivery methods.

• A Professional Architectural License is highly desirable.

• Familiarity with New York City regulatory agencies and permitting processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for 15+ years of experience, coupled with a preference for specific project types and licenses, indicates this is a senior-level role demanding significant technical depth and practical problem-solving capabilities. The emphasis on NYC regulations suggests a need for local expertise.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 detailed case studies demonstrating successful management of design compliance and construction quality on large-scale projects.

• Include examples of how you've managed RFIs, submittals, and shop drawings, highlighting efficiency improvements or issue resolution strategies.

• Provide evidence of field inspection reports and quality assurance documentation, illustrating your approach to identifying and rectifying defects.

• Demonstrate your experience in coordinating with SMEs and other stakeholders to resolve technical challenges.

• Present documentation of change order reviews and technical recommendations made. Process Documentation:

• Document your systematic approach to reviewing and approving design submittals and shop drawings.

• Detail your methodology for conducting site inspections and documenting findings, including tracking resolution progress.

• Illustrate your process for managing and responding to RFIs, ensuring timely and accurate information flow.

• Outline your strategy for coordinating and integrating SME input into the overall project design and construction process.

• Provide examples of how you ensure project documentation and quality records are meticulously maintained throughout the project lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is essential for this role, focusing on tangible evidence of process management, problem-solving, and quality oversight in construction. Candidates should be prepared to articulate their methodologies and demonstrate quantifiable results.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $120,000 - $160,000 annually.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance plans.

• Opportunities for professional development through training and education programs.

• Access to in-house mentorship from senior industry professionals.

• Encouragement and support for participation in industry trade, business, and professional associations.

• Retirement savings plan options.

• Paid time off (PTO) and holidays.

Working Hours: Standard 40-hour work week, with significant on-site presence required at the Bronx project location (4 days per week). Flexibility may be required for critical project deadlines or regulatory inspections.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is competitive for a Design Manager role with 15+ years of experience in a major metropolitan area like New York City. The benefits package emphasizes professional growth and development, aligning with the company's stated commitment to employee advancement.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction Management, Project Management, Program Management, Real Estate Development.

Company Size: Group PMX is a certified MBE, DBE, SBE, and LBE firm, suggesting a focus on diversity and inclusion within its operations and project partnerships. Their recognition by ENR New York as a Top Contractor for six consecutive years indicates a stable and reputable presence in the market.

Founded: While the founding date is not specified, their sustained recognition and established portfolio suggest a company with significant experience and a strong market position.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager likely operates within a larger project management or construction management team, potentially reporting to a Project Director or Senior Program Manager.

• Collaboration will be extensive with site superintendents, project engineers, architects, MEP engineers, subcontractors, and client representatives.

• The emphasis on "One Team. Shared Success.^SM" suggests a highly collaborative environment where cross-functional teamwork and shared accountability are paramount. Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making, utilizing project metrics, field reports, and financial data to guide actions.

• Process optimization and efficiency are key, as evidenced by the focus on quality assurance, compliance, and timely issue resolution.

• A "project-first thinking culture" is promoted, prioritizing project goals and client success through coordinated efforts.

Company Website: [group PMX.com]

📝 Enhancement Note: Group PMX positions itself as a collaborative, client-focused organization with a strong commitment to project performance and professional development. Their diverse certifications and industry recognition underscore their credibility and market reach.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This Design Manager role represents a senior-level position within the construction management and project delivery domain. It demands extensive technical expertise, leadership capabilities, and a proven ability to manage complex project phases from design through closeout. The role is pivotal in ensuring the successful technical execution and quality of major construction projects.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will likely report to a Project Director or Senior Program Manager, overseeing specific aspects of design and construction quality. They will, in turn, manage or influence the work of site engineers, inspectors, and potentially coordinate with subcontractor design liaisons.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct and substantial impact on project success by ensuring designs are constructible, quality standards are met, regulatory requirements are satisfied, and potential risks are mitigated. Effective management by the Design Manager can lead to significant cost savings, schedule adherence, and enhanced client satisfaction, directly contributing to Group PMX's reputation and profitability.

Growth Opportunities:

• Potential advancement to Project Director, Program Manager, or Executive leadership roles within Group PMX, managing larger and more complex project portfolios.

• Opportunities to specialize in specific building systems or project typologies (e.g., high-rise, public infrastructure).

• Development of advanced leadership and stakeholder management skills through high-stakes project environments.

• Mentorship and training programs designed to cultivate future leaders within the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career progression within a reputable construction management firm. The emphasis on growth and development suggests that Group PMX invests in its senior talent, providing pathways to leadership and specialized expertise.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This role involves a hybrid work arrangement, with a significant requirement for on-site presence at a large-scale project in the Bronx (4 days per week). The remaining day may be spent at a Group PMX office or remotely, depending on project needs and company policy.

Office Location(s): The primary work location is a project site in the Bronx, NY. This necessitates regular travel to and from this specific location. Group PMX may have other corporate offices, but the focus for this role is project-based.

Workspace Context:

• On-site work will involve a dynamic, potentially fast-paced construction environment, requiring adaptability and resilience.

• Access to project trailers, site offices, and potentially shared workspaces within the project compound.

• Collaboration will be frequent, involving direct interaction with site teams, subcontractors, and potentially client representatives in various project settings.

• Necessary tools and technology, such as project management software, communication devices, and potentially site-specific survey or inspection equipment, will be available.

Work Schedule: While a standard 40-hour work week is typical, the nature of construction projects often requires flexibility. The Design Manager may need to adjust their schedule to accommodate critical inspections, stakeholder meetings, or urgent site issues, particularly during peak project phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model with a strong on-site component is typical for senior construction management roles. Candidates should be prepared for a demanding but rewarding environment that requires adaptability and a hands-on approach to project oversight.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess experience against the core requirements.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion focused on your technical expertise, project management philosophy, and leadership style, with an emphasis on your experience with complex projects and regulatory environments. Expect questions about how you ensure design compliance and construction quality.

• Technical/Panel Interview: This stage may involve a deeper dive into specific building systems, RFI/submittal management, and problem-solving scenarios. You might be asked to walk through a key case study from your portfolio.

• Stakeholder/Cultural Fit Interview: An opportunity to meet with potential team members or senior leadership to assess collaboration style, communication effectiveness, and alignment with Group PMX's "One Team" culture.

• Final Interview/Offer: A concluding discussion, potentially with senior leadership, to finalize terms and extend an offer.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or by responsibility area (e.g., Design Review, Quality Control, Stakeholder Management).

• Content: For each case study, clearly outline the project scope, your specific role, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented, and the quantifiable outcomes (e.g., schedule saved, defects reduced, cost efficiencies gained).

• Visuals: Include relevant visuals where appropriate, such as site photos, inspection checklists, RFI examples (redacted for confidentiality), or process flowcharts.

• Conciseness: Be prepared to present key aspects of your portfolio succinctly, focusing on your direct contributions and impact. Highlight your expertise in design compliance, construction quality, and technical coordination.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss how you would approach a hypothetical design or construction issue, such as a conflict between shop drawings and contract documents, or a significant quality deviation identified during an inspection.

• Prepare to articulate your strategy for coordinating with multiple SMEs and stakeholders to reach a consensus on complex technical matters.

• Think about how you would ensure project documentation and quality records are maintained rigorously, even under tight deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to thoroughly assess both technical competence and collaborative aptitude. A well-prepared portfolio that clearly demonstrates hands-on experience and impactful results in design and construction oversight will be crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency with industry-standard platforms such as Procore, Autodesk Construction Cloud (formerly PlanGrid, BIM 360), or similar systems for document management, RFI/submittal tracking, and field reporting.

• BIM Software: Familiarity with Building Information Modeling (BIM) tools like Autodesk Revit or Navisworks for design coordination and clash detection is highly beneficial.

• Document Management Systems: Experience with cloud-based systems for organizing and sharing project documentation.

• Communication Platforms: Expertise in using platforms like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for internal and external team communication.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Spreadsheet Software: Advanced skills in Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets for data analysis, tracking, and reporting on project metrics, budgets, and schedules.

• Reporting Tools: Ability to generate clear and concise reports using project management software or standalone reporting tools.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how project data integrates with client management systems or enterprise resource planning (ERP) software can be advantageous.

• Familiarity with workflow automation within project management software to streamline processes like RFI and submittal review.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong command of construction project management software, particularly those facilitating document control and field reporting, is essential. Familiarity with BIM and data analysis tools will significantly enhance a candidate's profile.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• "One Team. Shared Success.^SM": This core value emphasizes collaboration, mutual support, and a collective drive towards achieving project goals. Operations professionals are expected to contribute to a unified team effort.

• "Project-first thinking culture": Prioritizing client needs and project objectives through proactive, coordinated actions. This means anticipating challenges and working diligently to ensure successful project outcomes.

• Integrity and Professionalism: Upholding high ethical standards and maintaining professional conduct in all interactions, especially when dealing with stakeholders, regulatory bodies, and sensitive project information.

• Excellence and Continuous Improvement: A commitment to delivering high-quality work and consistently seeking ways to enhance processes, efficiency, and project performance.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively engaging with architects, engineers, contractors, client representatives, and internal project teams to ensure seamless coordination and information flow.

• Proactive Communication: Maintaining open and transparent communication channels, providing timely updates, and clearly articulating technical information and potential issues.

• Problem-Solving Focus: Approaching challenges collaboratively, seeking input from diverse perspectives to identify and implement effective solutions.

• Mentorship and Knowledge Sharing: Contributing to a learning environment by sharing expertise and supporting the development of junior team members.

📝 Enhancement Note: Group PMX fosters a culture centered on teamwork, client success, and professional integrity. Candidates should demonstrate an ability to thrive in a collaborative, results-oriented environment and a commitment to upholding high standards of practice.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Complex Regulatory Environments: Managing design and construction in a highly regulated city like New York requires deep understanding and constant vigilance regarding codes, permits, and agency requirements.

• Coordinating Diverse Stakeholders: Balancing the interests and technical input of numerous parties (clients, designers, contractors, SMEs, regulators) can be challenging.

• Ensuring Consistent Quality on Large-Scale Projects: Maintaining high standards across all aspects of a complex, multi-faceted project requires meticulous oversight and proactive problem-solving.

• Managing Change Effectively: Addressing and technically evaluating change orders while minimizing impact on schedule and budget requires strong analytical and negotiation skills.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific building systems, materials, or construction methodologies.

• Leadership Development Programs: Formal training and practical experience in managing teams, projects, and client relationships at a higher level.

• Industry Certifications: Support for obtaining or maintaining professional licenses and certifications (e.g., PE, AIA, CCM).

• Exposure to Diverse Projects: Gaining experience across a range of project types and complexities within Group PMX's portfolio, broadening skill sets and industry knowledge.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges that are inherent to large-scale construction projects in urban environments. However, these challenges are balanced by robust opportunities for professional growth, skill enhancement, and career advancement within a supportive organizational structure.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you identified a significant design non-conformance during a construction phase. How did you address it, and what was the outcome?" (Prepare with a STAR method response, highlighting your process for identification, communication, resolution, and documentation.)

• "How do you ensure effective coordination and buy-in from multiple SMEs on critical building systems (e.g., MEP, fireproofing) on a large project?" (Focus on your communication strategies, meeting facilitation skills, and methods for integrating diverse technical inputs.)

• "Walk me through your process for reviewing and approving submittals and shop drawings. What are the key elements you look for to ensure design intent is met?" (Be ready to detail your checklist, review methodology, and any tools you use for efficiency.)

• "How do you balance the need for strict adherence to design documents with the practicalities of on-site construction and potential change orders?" (Discuss your approach to value engineering, change order assessment, and stakeholder negotiation.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "Based on our company values of 'One Team. Shared Success.' and 'project-first thinking,' how would you contribute to our team culture?" (Emphasize your collaborative approach, commitment to shared goals, and client-centric mindset.)

• "How do you stay current with NYC building codes and regulatory requirements?" (Highlight your proactive approach to professional development and information gathering.)

• "Describe your experience working on high-rise or public sector projects. What unique challenges did you face and how did you overcome them?" (Prepare specific examples that align with Group PMX's project experience.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Highlight Key Achievements: Select 2-3 projects that best showcase your experience in design management, quality assurance, and stakeholder coordination.

• Quantify Impact: For each project, provide specific metrics related to cost savings, schedule adherence, defect reduction, or successful regulatory approvals.

• Demonstrate Process: Clearly articulate your systematic approach to RFI management, submittal reviews, field inspections, and issue resolution. Use visual aids if possible (e.g., redacted report templates, process flowcharts).

• Tailor to Role: Emphasize your experience with building systems, technical coordination, and managing design intent through construction, aligning with the core responsibilities of the Design Manager role.

📝 Enhancement Note: Thorough preparation, focusing on specific examples and quantifiable results from your past projects, will be key. Demonstrating a deep understanding of construction processes, regulatory compliance, and collaborative problem-solving will be critical for success.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on Greenhouse.

• Tailor Your Resume: Ensure your resume highlights your 15+ years of experience in design review, construction administration, field inspections, and quality assurance. Use keywords from the job description such as "design compliance," "construction quality," "technical coordination," "RFIs," "submittals," "field inspections," and "stakeholder coordination."

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Compile a portfolio that includes detailed case studies of large-scale projects. Focus on demonstrating your systematic approach to managing design intent through construction, quality control processes, and successful resolution of technical challenges. Be ready to present key examples during interviews.

• Research Group PMX: Familiarize yourself with Group PMX's "One Team" culture, their project portfolio, and their commitment to client success. Understand their certifications (MBE, DBE, SBE, LBE) and their recent industry recognitions.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare to answer behavioral and situational questions using the STAR method, focusing on your experience with complex construction projects, regulatory compliance (especially in NYC), and stakeholder management.

⚠️ 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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