Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager

Company: Journey Group Companies

Location: Sioux Falls, South Dakota, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Construction Design Management / GTM Operations Support

Date Posted: October 02, 2026

Experience Level: 7+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearhead the establishment and growth of an in-house design capability, focusing on design-build and design-assist projects within the commercial, industrial, and healthcare sectors.

• Drive the end-to-end design process, from conceptualization through the production of detailed construction documents, ensuring alignment with project budgets, schedules, and constructability requirements.

• Manage a hybrid approach to design execution, balancing in-house expertise with the strategic engagement and management of external architectural and engineering consultants.

• Foster strong cross-functional collaboration between design teams, project managers, superintendents, and preconstruction services to minimize rework and enhance project efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role, while titled "Design Manager," has significant operational components. The emphasis on establishing processes, managing external vendors (consultants), and ensuring design alignment with budget/schedule/constructability points to a strong GTM (Go-To-Market) operations support function. The need to build standards from scratch and act as a client liaison also highlights strategic operational responsibilities beyond pure design.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the development and execution of design strategies for design-build and design-assist projects, from initial concept to final construction documents.

• Produce comprehensive architectural plans, elevations, sections, details, and specifications, clearly communicating design options and their associated cost, schedule, and constructability impacts to stakeholders.

• Strategically determine the optimal mix of in-house design resources versus external consultants, including the negotiation and management of consultant agreements.

• Translate conceptual design drawings into fully coordinated, constructible documentation suitable for subcontractor and vendor bidding and execution.

• Provide specialized design support for renovation projects, including existing-conditions documentation, detailed phasing plans, and critical tie-in details to minimize disruption.

• Collaborate closely with Project Managers, Superintendents, and the Preconstruction team to ensure design solutions are aligned with financial targets and project timelines, proactively identifying and mitigating potential rework or RFIs.

• Act as a primary client contact for all design-related matters, contributing to business development efforts by showcasing design expertise and solutions.

• Develop and implement Journey Group's design and documentation standards, including the creation of templates and detail libraries to ensure consistency and efficiency across all projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities listed emphasize a blend of technical design execution and strategic management. The operational aspects include vendor management (consultants), process/standards development, and cross-functional alignment with project management and preconstruction, all critical for GTM success in the construction industry.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

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

• Minimum of 7+ years of progressive experience in design, architecture, or construction project management.

• Demonstrated hands-on experience in personally producing detailed construction documents. Required Skills:

• Active Registered Architect (RA) license is mandatory.

• Strong proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, and other BIM platforms.

• Expertise in Bluebeam and SketchUp for documentation and visualization.

• Comprehensive understanding of building codes, local regulations, and permitting processes.

• Working knowledge of structural, Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) systems, and building envelope systems.

• Proven ability to effectively communicate complex design intent to owners, consultants, and field crews.

• Demonstrated self-starter capability with a proven track record of building processes and standards from the ground up.

• Valid driver's license with a safe driving record. Preferred Skills:

• Prior experience in healthcare design or construction is highly preferred.

• Experience with renovation projects in occupied or phased facilities is strongly preferred.

• Familiarity with design-build or design-assist project delivery methods is advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for an active RA license and 7+ years of experience positions this as a senior-level role. The emphasis on specific software like Revit and AutoCAD, alongside BIM, Bluebeam, and SketchUp, highlights the technical demands. The preference for healthcare and renovation experience suggests a specialization within the construction industry, requiring candidates to showcase relevant project portfolios.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 diverse projects, with a strong emphasis on healthcare, commercial, or industrial sectors, demonstrating design leadership and document production.

• Include examples of detailed construction documents (plans, sections, details, specifications) that clearly illustrate constructability and code compliance.

• Present case studies that highlight your role in managing external consultants and ensuring their work integrated seamlessly with in-house efforts.

• Demonstrate experience in developing and implementing design standards, process documentation, or detail libraries, with quantifiable improvements in efficiency or consistency.

• Provide evidence of managing design through budget and schedule constraints, with examples of how design decisions impacted project economics. Process Documentation:

• Ability to document and formalize design workflows from concept to completion, including client interaction, consultant coordination, and internal reviews.

• Experience in creating and maintaining templates for specifications, drawing sets, and consultant agreements.

• Demonstrated capability to establish and manage a library of standard details and specifications for recurring project types.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role focused on building an in-house design capability, a portfolio demonstrating not just design skill but also process development and management is crucial. Candidates should be prepared to discuss how they've standardized processes, managed external vendors, and integrated design with operational constraints.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Based on industry benchmarks for a Design Manager with 7+ years of experience, an active RA license, and significant project leadership responsibilities in Sioux Falls, SD, the estimated salary range is $95,000 - $130,000 annually. This estimate considers the cost of living in Sioux Falls, the specialized nature of the role (including healthcare/renovation preferences), and the responsibility of building a new function.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans.

• 401(k) retirement savings plan with a company match.

• Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options for pre-tax healthcare expenses.

• Disability coverage (short-term and long-term).

• Employee Wellness Programs designed to promote health and well-being.

• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) accrual.

• Paid Company Holidays.

• Paid Parental Leave to support new parents.

• Annual Bonus Opportunities based on company and individual performance.

• Potential for a cell phone allowance, clothing allowance, mileage reimbursement, and relocation assistance. Working Hours:

• Standard full-time position, typically requiring 40 hours per week.

• While the core hours are standard, flexibility may be expected to meet project deadlines and client needs, especially during critical design phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on industry data for similar roles in the specified region and experience level. The benefits package is comprehensive, reflecting a company that invests in its employees' well-being and long-term financial security. The mention of potential allowances and relocation assistance indicates a willingness to support employees with specific needs.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction Services, encompassing Commercial, Manufacturing, Industrial, Civil, Residential, and Asphalt markets. This diverse market reach provides a broad base of project types and client needs.

Company Size: Journey Group is a substantial organization, indicated by its multiple divisions and the creation of a new, strategic role like Design Manager, suggesting a company that is growing and investing in its capabilities.

Founded: Journey Group has a history of building strong relationships and delivering quality projects, implying a stable and established presence in the market. The company's slogan, "building communities and growing together," highlights a focus on both external impact and internal development.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager will likely lead a nascent in-house design team, potentially growing to include drafters, designers, and junior architects.

• This role involves significant interaction with Project Managers, Superintendents, Preconstruction teams, and external consultants, requiring strong matrixed collaboration.

• Reporting structure is likely to be within operations or project delivery leadership, emphasizing the operational integration of design. Methodology:

• The company emphasizes integrity, teamwork, and fiscal responsibility, suggesting a culture where collaboration, ethical conduct, and financial acumen are highly valued.

• The "building communities and growing together" ethos points to a supportive environment focused on both client success and employee development.

Company Website: journeyconstruction.com (Inferred from domain_derived)

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on integrity, teamwork, and fiscal responsibility suggests an operational environment that values efficiency, collaboration, and sound financial management. The "growing together" aspect implies opportunities for professional development.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This Design Manager role is positioned at a senior or lead level. It involves not only hands-on execution but also strategic leadership in establishing a new function, defining standards, and managing external relationships. It represents a significant step towards operationalizing design within the company.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will likely report to a senior executive within Project Delivery or Operations, such as a VP of Operations or Director of Project Management. They will collaborate closely with Project Managers and Superintendents, influencing project success from the earliest stages.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's impact is crucial for GTM operations. By ensuring designs are constructible, cost-effective, and schedule-aligned from the outset, they directly contribute to project profitability, client satisfaction, and the company's reputation for efficient project delivery. Their work influences bid accuracy and reduces costly rework during construction.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific sectors like healthcare or advanced BIM implementation.

• Leadership: Grow the in-house design team, potentially leading to a Director of Design or equivalent role.

• Process Optimization: Lead company-wide initiatives to improve design and construction documentation workflows, impacting broader operational efficiency.

• Business Development: Contribute to winning new design-build or design-assist projects by shaping initial proposals and client presentations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a unique opportunity to shape a critical function from its inception, providing a direct path for career growth into leadership positions within operations and design management. The ability to influence company-wide processes is a significant growth lever.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based at the company's headquarters in Sioux Falls, SD, at 4500 W 58th St. This suggests a professional office environment that supports administrative, project management, and design functions.

Office Location(s): Primarily Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The company may have other divisions or project sites, but the core role is based at headquarters.

Workspace Context:

• The Design Manager will likely have a dedicated workspace within the office, equipped with the necessary hardware and software for design work.

• Opportunities for collaboration with project teams, preconstruction, and leadership will be readily available within the office setting.

• Access to project files, historical data, and company standards will be integral to the workspace. Work Schedule:

• A standard 40-hour workweek is expected, with potential for extended hours to meet project deadlines. The on-site nature of the role facilitates immediate collaboration and problem-solving.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement is typical for roles involving significant team collaboration, direct client interaction, and hands-on oversight of design processes, especially in a construction environment where immediate problem-solving is often critical.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess qualifications, experience (especially RA license and 7+ years), and alignment with preferred project types (healthcare, renovation).

• Technical Interview: Discussion focused on your hands-on experience producing construction documents, proficiency with Revit, AutoCAD, BIM, and understanding of building systems and codes. Expect questions about constructability and problem-solving for complex projects.

• Portfolio Presentation: A dedicated session where you'll present a selection of your work, detailing your role, design decisions, project challenges, and outcomes. Be prepared to discuss how you managed consultants and integrated design with budget/schedule.

• Behavioral/Team Fit Interview: Questions assessing your ability to build processes, collaborate with project teams (PMs, Superintendents), communicate with stakeholders, and fit within Journey Group's culture of integrity and teamwork.

• Final Interview: Likely with senior leadership to discuss strategic vision for the design function and confirm overall fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best showcase your RA credentials, hands-on document production, and experience in healthcare, renovation, commercial, or industrial sectors.

• Quantify Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the scope, your specific contributions, the design challenges, how you mitigated them (especially regarding budget, schedule, and constructability), and the positive outcomes. Use metrics where possible (e.g., reduction in RFIs, cost savings from design choices).

• Showcase Process: Include examples of how you've developed or improved design processes, created standards, or managed consultants effectively.

• Be Ready to Discuss: Prepare to walk through your drawings, explain your Revit/BIM workflows, and detail your decision-making process.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for a potential case study or scenario-based question where you might be asked to outline your approach to a specific design challenge (e.g., designing a phased renovation in an occupied hospital wing, or value-engineering a design-build project).

• Practice articulating your thought process clearly and logically, demonstrating your understanding of constructability, code compliance, and budget/schedule constraints.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio review and potential design challenges highlights the practical, hands-on nature of this role, even at a management level. Candidates must be ready to demonstrate their technical and strategic capabilities through their past work.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Revit: Essential for BIM modeling, documentation, and coordination. Proficiency expected for producing construction documents.

• AutoCAD: Still relevant for legacy projects or specific drafting tasks.

• BIM Platforms: Broader understanding of BIM workflows beyond just Revit, including coordination and collaboration tools.

• Bluebeam Revu: Critical for document review, markup, takeoff, and collaboration on PDFs.

• SketchUp: Useful for conceptual design, visualization, and quick modeling.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not directly an analytics role, an understanding of how design impacts project performance metrics (cost, schedule, RFIs) is key. Familiarity with project management software reporting features is beneficial. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to the core design function, but awareness of how design integrates with CRM for client communication and sales support (especially in design-build) is a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in specific design software (Revit, AutoCAD, Bluebeam) is paramount. The emphasis on BIM and the ability to translate concepts into constructible documents are core technical requirements.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity: Upholding ethical standards in all design and contractual dealings.

• Teamwork: Fostering a collaborative environment where design integrates seamlessly with operations and project management.

• Fiscal Responsibility: Making design decisions that respect project budgets and deliver value.

• Quality: Commitment to producing high-quality, constructible documentation.

• Continuous Improvement: A drive to establish and refine design standards and processes for ongoing efficiency.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive and cross-functional, working closely with Project Managers, Superintendents, Preconstruction, and external consultants.

• Communication-focused, ensuring clear articulation of design intent and proactive problem-solving.

• Process-oriented, contributing to the development and adherence to established design and documentation workflows.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's stated values of integrity, teamwork, and fiscal responsibility should guide how candidates present themselves and their approach to design management within an operational context.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Building from Scratch: Establishing in-house design standards, templates, and processes for a function that is new to the company.

• Balancing In-House vs. Consultant Work: Determining the optimal resource allocation and managing external partners effectively.

• Integrating Design with Operations: Ensuring design solutions are practical, cost-effective, and align with field operations and preconstruction estimates.

• Healthcare/Renovation Complexity: Navigating the specific regulatory, operational, and technical challenges of healthcare and occupied renovation projects.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Leadership Development: Opportunities to lead and grow a team, define departmental strategy, and influence company-wide operational processes.

• Industry Specialization: Deepen expertise in healthcare design, advanced BIM applications, or sustainable design practices.

• Professional Networking: Engage with industry consultants and clients, expanding professional connections.

• Process Improvement: Lead initiatives to enhance design delivery, potentially impacting broader operational efficiency and profitability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "building from scratch" aspect presents a significant challenge but also a substantial growth opportunity for an ambitious candidate. Demonstrating how one would tackle these challenges will be key during the interview process.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to establishing design standards and documentation processes for a new in-house design function."

• "How would you balance the use of in-house design staff versus external consultants to optimize project delivery and cost?"

• "Walk me through a complex renovation project you managed. How did you handle existing conditions documentation, phasing, and tie-ins while minimizing disruption?"

• "How do you ensure design decisions align with budget constraints and construction schedules? Provide an example." Company & Culture Questions:

• "Based on our company's stated values (integrity, teamwork, fiscal responsibility), how would you apply them in your role as Design Manager?"

• "How would you foster collaboration between the design team, project management, and field operations?"

• "What is your experience working with clients on design matters, and how do you approach supporting business development efforts?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure is Key: Organize your presentation logically, perhaps by project type or by the design lifecycle stages you managed.

• Focus on Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your solution, your specific role, and the quantifiable results. Highlight your hands-on document production and process development efforts.

• Be Ready for Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about your Revit workflows, code compliance strategies, and how you've handled constructability issues.

• Demonstrate Leadership: Show how you've led design efforts, managed consultants, and influenced project outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating both technical design proficiency and operational management skills. Candidates need to articulate how they can build processes, manage resources, and ensure design contributes to project success from a GTM operations perspective.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

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

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your active RA license, 7+ years of relevant experience, and specific software proficiencies (Revit, AutoCAD, Bluebeam, BIM). Emphasize any experience in healthcare, renovation, design-build, or design-assist projects.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 3-5 strong examples of your work that showcase your hands-on construction document production, design leadership, and ideally, experience in healthcare or renovations. Be prepared to discuss your process, challenges, and outcomes for each.

• Prepare Your Narrative: Practice articulating your experience in building design processes, managing consultants, and collaborating with project teams. Be ready to discuss how you ensure design aligns with budget and schedule.

• Research Journey Group: Understand their divisions, values, and project types. Be prepared to discuss how your skills and experience align with their mission of "building communities and growing together."

⚠️ 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.