Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager

Company: MAAS Companies

Location: Monterey Park, California, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Facilities Management / Design Operations

Date Posted: 2026-08-10

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversee the complete design lifecycle for complex facilities maintenance and repair projects within a large public school district, ensuring adherence to programmatic goals, budgetary constraints, environmental regulations, and legal requirements.

• Manage and coordinate multiple capital projects concurrently, fostering collaboration among architects, engineering consultants, and internal district stakeholders to drive projects from initial concept through to finalized buildable plans.

• Lead the selection process for architecture and engineering (A/E) firms, ensuring alignment with project-specific needs and the firm's demonstrated capabilities to deliver quality designs on schedule and within budget.

• Champion a rigorous design review process, verifying that all plans meet the District's stringent standards for educational functionality, building integrity, and fiscal responsibility, while actively managing design changes to maintain cost control.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within the "Design Operations" or "Facilities Management Operations" domain, focusing on the strategic and managerial aspects of the design process for capital improvement projects. It requires a blend of technical design oversight, project management rigor, and stakeholder coordination, typical of senior operations roles in public sector or large institutional environments. The emphasis on managing external A&E firms and ensuring compliance with public agency standards (like DSA) highlights the operational complexity.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Direct the end-to-end design process for A&E Services, from initial schematic designs through to the delivery of comprehensive construction-ready plans for engineering repair and critical repair projects.

• Manage a portfolio of several concurrent engineering repair and critical repair projects, providing clear direction and oversight to the associated architects, consultants, and District staff involved in each initiative.

• Establish and execute a clear, objective process for selecting A&E firms based on their suitability, past performance, and capacity to deliver on project requirements, ensuring fair and transparent procurement practices.

• Provide precise and consistent direction to selected A&E firms regarding project goals, design standards, site-specific considerations, project timelines, and budget allocations.

• Lead and facilitate the design review process, ensuring that proposed designs not only meet LAUSD's established educational and building standards but also maximize the value delivered for the allocated budget.

• Meticulously review and approve design changes, assessing their impact on project scope, schedule, and budget, and proactively mitigating any potential cost overruns or delays.

• Develop and deliver comprehensive status reports on the progress of planning and design phases for all assigned projects, clearly articulating findings, identifying decision points, and providing actionable recommendations to senior leadership.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a proactive and strategic approach to design management, focusing on process efficiency, risk mitigation (budget overruns, compliance issues), and stakeholder alignment. The scope suggests a need for strong leadership in navigating complex public sector procurement and construction regulations.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: A Bachelor's degree in Architecture or Engineering is required for this role.

Experience:

• A minimum of 8 years of full-time, paid professional experience in managing facilities design or coordinating capital projects. This experience must encompass overall design oversight, contract administration, cost estimating, and scheduling.

• A minimum of 4 years of this experience must be specifically focused on the design, planning, and construction of schools or similar public agency facilities. Required Skills:

• Facilities Design Management: Proven ability to oversee and direct the design process for complex building projects, ensuring alignment with user needs and technical specifications.

• Capital Project Coordination: Expertise in managing multiple capital improvement projects simultaneously, from initiation through to completion, with a focus on the design phase.

• A&E Firm Selection & Management: Skill in developing criteria, evaluating proposals, and selecting appropriate architecture and engineering firms, followed by effective management of their deliverables and performance.

• Design Review & Standards Compliance: Deep understanding of building codes, educational facility standards, and regulatory requirements (including DSA), with the ability to conduct thorough design reviews.

• Budget & Schedule Management: Strong capabilities in developing, monitoring, and controlling project budgets and schedules, particularly during the design and pre-construction phases.

• Contract Administration: Experience in managing contracts with external design consultants, ensuring adherence to terms and conditions.

• Cost Estimating & Scheduling (Design Phase): Proficiency in evaluating design costs and project timelines from a design perspective, not solely from a construction execution standpoint.

• Stakeholder Communication & Reporting: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for clear reporting and effective collaboration with internal teams, external consultants, and regulatory bodies.

Preferred Skills:

• California Architect (RA) or Professional Engineer (PE) License: A current California Certificate of Registration as an Architect or a Professional Engineer license.

• DSA Experience: Direct experience working with or navigating the requirements of the Division of the State Architect (DSA) for public school construction projects.

• Occupied Building Renovation: Experience with repair and modernization projects on buildings that remain occupied during the work, requiring careful phasing and coordination.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required experience clearly delineates between general facilities design management and specialized public sector/school construction. The preferred skills highlight direct experience with California's specific regulatory environment for public schools, indicating a strong advantage for candidates with this background.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Project Case Studies: Showcase detailed examples of capital projects managed, emphasizing the design phase, challenges encountered, and solutions implemented. Include project scope, budget, timeline, and key design decisions.

• Process Optimization Examples: Present instances where you improved the design process, A&E firm selection, or design review workflow, quantifying the impact on efficiency, cost savings, or quality.

• System Implementation Standards: Demonstrate understanding of how design integrates with broader project management systems and operational workflows, even if not directly managing the implementation of those systems.

• ROI Demonstration: For completed projects, illustrate how design decisions contributed to long-term operational efficiency, reduced maintenance costs, or enhanced educational outcomes, demonstrating a focus on return on investment.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design and Optimization: Provide examples of how you have documented, analyzed, and optimized design workflows, A&E selection criteria, or design review procedures to improve clarity and efficiency.

• Implementation and Automation Methods: While this role focuses on design management, demonstrate an understanding of how design specifications translate into actionable construction plans and how technology (e.g., BIM, project management software) can support this transition.

• Measurement and Performance Analysis: Detail how you measure the success of the design phase, including metrics for adherence to budget, schedule, quality standards, and stakeholder satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role, the portfolio should heavily emphasize demonstrable project management success within the design context, particularly for public sector or educational facilities. A strong understanding of process improvement within the A&E engagement lifecycle is crucial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $167,000 to $183,000 per year. This range is based on experience, with the understanding that candidates with extensive relevant experience, particularly in public school construction and DSA compliance, may be positioned at the higher end of this scale.

Benefits:

• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance: Comprehensive coverage provided at a low cost to employees.

• 401k Retirement Plan: Standard retirement savings option.

• Paid Time Off (PTO): Three weeks of PTO annually, offering a good work-life balance.

• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP): A significant benefit where employees are granted ownership in the company at no cost. MAAS Companies contributes to this plan, with a 3% Safe Harbor contribution that is vested on day one, enhancing long-term financial security and aligning employee interests with company success.

Working Hours: The standard full-time work week is 40 hours. While the role is on-site, the company culture, as indicated by employee satisfaction, suggests a supportive environment that likely respects work-life balance within the framework of project demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is competitive for a senior management role in the California market. The ESOP is a substantial differentiator, offering significant long-term wealth-building potential beyond the base salary, which is a key selling point for operations and management professionals seeking stability and ownership.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: MAAS Companies operates within the Construction and Project Management industry, specializing in serving educational institutions. Their market position is built on nearly 40 years of experience managing over $10 billion in projects for more than 50 educational clients across California. This long-standing presence suggests a stable, reputable, and experienced organization.

Company Size: MAAS Companies is a 100% employee-owned firm. While a precise employee count isn't provided, their extensive project portfolio and decades of operation indicate a medium to large-sized organization with a significant workforce dedicated to project management and related services. The employee ownership model fosters a culture of shared responsibility and commitment.

Founded: Founded nearly 40 years ago, MAAS Companies has a deep history and established reputation in managing capital projects for educational institutions. This longevity signifies stability, a proven track record, and deep expertise in their niche.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager will likely be part of the A/E Services department, which is a key component of MAAS Companies' overall project management structure. This team focuses specifically on the pre-construction design phases.

• The reporting structure will likely place the Design Manager under a Director or VP of Project Management or Operations, with direct oversight of external A&E consultants and coordination with internal project managers and site staff.

• Cross-functional collaboration is inherent, requiring close partnership with MAAS project managers, construction teams, client representatives (LAUSD staff), and external architects and engineers. Methodology:

• MAAS Companies emphasizes a data-driven approach to project management, likely involving robust analytics for project performance, cost tracking, and risk assessment.

• Workflow planning and optimization are critical, especially in managing the complex design and procurement processes for public sector projects. The company's long history suggests well-defined, efficient operational methodologies.

• Automation and efficiency practices are likely employed to streamline processes, manage documentation, and facilitate communication across dispersed project teams and stakeholders.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on educational institutions and its long history provide a stable backdrop. The 100% ESOP model is a significant cultural and financial differentiator, suggesting a highly engaged and loyal workforce. The "Design Manager" title and responsibilities clearly place this role within the operational execution of capital projects, rather than pure architectural design.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior-level position within the operations and project management domain, specifically focused on the critical design phase of capital improvement projects. It requires a significant depth of experience in managing complex processes, external vendors, and regulatory compliance. The scope implies a high degree of autonomy and responsibility for a critical segment of the project lifecycle.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will report to a higher-level executive within MAAS Companies, likely a Director or Vice President overseeing Project Management or a specific division like A&E Services. This position will, in turn, manage and direct external A&E firms and consultants, acting as the primary liaison between the firm and MAAS Companies' internal project execution teams and the client (LAUSD).

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's role has a profound impact on the success of MAAS Companies' projects. Effective design management directly influences project cost, schedule adherence, buildability, long-term operational efficiency, and safety. By ensuring designs are robust, compliant, and cost-effective, this role directly contributes to client satisfaction, profitability, and the company's reputation for delivering high-quality educational facilities.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to advance into Director-level roles within Project Management or A&E Services, managing larger portfolios, broader teams, or more strategic initiatives.

• Specialization & Expertise: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific areas like public sector construction regulations, sustainable design integration, or complex modernization projects, becoming a subject matter expert.

• Operational Strategy: Involvement in shaping MAAS Companies' operational strategies for design procurement, project delivery, and risk management, contributing to the company's long-term success and growth, especially given the ESOP structure.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Design Manager" title, coupled with the required experience and responsibilities, points to a role that bridges strategic oversight with operational execution. The growth potential is significant, particularly within an employee-owned company where leadership roles are often filled internally.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Monterey Park, California, and is explicitly stated as an on-site position. This suggests a traditional office environment where collaboration, team interaction, and direct oversight are valued.

Office Location(s): The primary office is located in Monterey Park, California. This location serves as the operational hub for managing projects across various school campuses within the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) and potentially other educational institutions in the region. Accessibility and proximity to LAUSD facilities may be advantageous.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is likely designed to foster collaboration among project management teams, design staff, and administrative support. Expect a professional office setting conducive to focused work and team meetings.

• Access to standard office technology, project management software, and communication tools will be provided to support the efficient management of design processes and consultant interactions.

• Opportunities for direct interaction with project managers, operations leads, and senior management will be frequent, facilitating knowledge sharing and integrated problem-solving.

Work Schedule: The standard working hours are 40 hours per week, typical for a full-time professional role. Given the nature of managing capital projects and client expectations, there may be occasional requirements for flexibility to meet critical deadlines or address urgent project needs, though the core schedule is likely structured.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement is crucial. This role demands physical presence for team collaboration, client meetings, and potentially site visits, which are integral to managing the design process effectively within the public sector context.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess alignment with the core requirements, particularly the years of experience in facilities design and public agency capital projects.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the hiring manager to delve deeper into your experience managing A&E firms, your understanding of the design process, and your approach to budget and schedule control. Be prepared to discuss specific projects from your resume.

• Technical/Panel Interview: This stage may involve a panel of senior project managers, operations leaders, or technical experts. Expect questions focused on your technical knowledge of architecture/engineering principles, regulatory compliance (especially DSA), and problem-solving scenarios related to design challenges.

• Portfolio Presentation: You will likely be asked to present a curated selection of your work. This is a critical step where you demonstrate your project management capabilities, design oversight experience, and ability to articulate complex project details and outcomes.

• Final Interview/Offer: A final conversation with senior leadership to assess cultural fit, strategic thinking, and overall suitability for the role and MAAS Companies' employee-owned structure.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Select Projects: Choose 3-5 projects that best showcase your experience in managing facilities design for public agencies or similar complex organizations. Prioritize projects involving schools, renovations, or critical repairs.

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each project, clearly outline the scope, your role, the key design challenges, the A&E firms involved, your management approach, budget/schedule adherence, and the final outcome. Use visuals (site plans, renderings, photos) if possible.

• Quantify Your Impact: Whenever possible, use metrics to demonstrate your achievements. For example, "Managed design process for a $15M modernization project, delivering plans 2 weeks ahead of schedule and 5% under the design budget," or "Implemented a new design review checklist that reduced design change orders by 10%."

• Highlight Regulatory Compliance: Emphasize your experience with DSA or similar public sector regulatory bodies. Detail how you ensured designs met all compliance requirements.

• Showcase Management Skills: Demonstrate your ability to direct external consultants, manage stakeholder expectations, and make critical decisions under pressure.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Prepare for questions like, "How would you handle a situation where an A&E firm is consistently missing deadlines for design submissions?" or "What steps would you take if a design review revealed a significant potential cost overrun?"

• Process Improvement Ideas: Be ready to discuss how you would approach optimizing the design process at MAAS Companies, drawing on your experience and understanding of best practices.

• Company & Culture Fit: Research MAAS Companies' history, values (especially employee ownership), and recent projects. Be prepared to articulate why you are a good fit for their culture and how your experience aligns with their mission.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to assess both technical expertise and operational management skills. A strong portfolio showcasing successful project execution, particularly within the public sector and with an emphasis on process and compliance, will be key.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency in using industry-standard project management platforms (e.g., Procore, Autodesk Construction Cloud, MS Project) for tracking project progress, managing documentation, and facilitating communication.

• Design Software Collaboration: Familiarity with how design documents are created and shared using CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD) and BIM (Building Information Modeling) tools, and the ability to manage consultants using these platforms.

• Document Management Systems: Experience with systems for organizing, storing, and retrieving project documentation, including plans, specifications, RFIs, and submittals.

• Communication Platforms: Expertise in utilizing tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for real-time communication and collaboration with internal teams and external consultants.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Budgeting & Cost Control Software: Experience with tools for tracking project expenditures, forecasting costs, and managing change orders.

• Reporting Dashboards: Ability to generate and interpret performance reports from project management software or dedicated analytics tools to track design phase progress against key performance indicators (KPIs).

• Spreadsheet Software: Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel for data analysis, cost tracking, and custom reporting.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how client relationship management principles apply to managing relationships with LAUSD and A&E firms is beneficial.

• Familiarity with workflow automation within project management or document control systems to streamline repetitive tasks in the design review and approval process.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis is on managing processes and consultants who use these tools. While direct proficiency in highly technical design software might be less critical than for an architect, understanding their application and managing output from them is essential.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Commitment to Public Service: As a Design Manager for LAUSD projects, a strong commitment to serving the educational community and ensuring safe, functional learning environments is paramount. This likely translates into a culture of dedication and purpose.

• Integrity and Transparency: Given the public sector context and employee ownership model, operating with the highest ethical standards, transparency in dealings with consultants and stakeholders, and accountability for decisions are core values.

• Efficiency and Value: A drive to deliver maximum value for taxpayer dollars through optimized design processes, cost-effective solutions, and avoidance of waste is expected. This aligns with the operational focus on efficiency.

• Collaboration and Teamwork: The ESOP structure inherently promotes a collaborative spirit. MAAS Companies likely values teamwork, mutual respect, and a shared sense of responsibility for collective success.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expect a highly collaborative environment where the Design Manager works closely with internal project managers, construction teams, and client representatives to ensure seamless transitions from design to construction.

• Consultant Partnership: The role requires building strong, productive partnerships with external A&E firms, characterized by clear communication, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to project goals.

• Knowledge Sharing: A culture that encourages sharing best practices, lessons learned from past projects, and innovative approaches to design and project management, especially among employee-owners.

📝 Enhancement Note: The employee ownership model is a significant cultural driver, fostering a sense of shared ownership, dedication, and a strong emphasis on long-term success and mutual support. This is a key differentiator for MAAS Companies.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Public Sector Bureaucracy: Managing projects for a large public entity like LAUSD involves complex procurement processes, stringent regulations (e.g., DSA), and multiple approval layers, which can be time-consuming and require significant negotiation.

• Balancing Competing Priorities: Simultaneously managing multiple projects, each with unique design requirements, budget constraints, and stakeholder needs, demands exceptional organizational and prioritization skills.

• Managing External Consultant Performance: Ensuring that A&E firms consistently deliver high-quality work on time and within budget, while navigating potential scope creep or contractual disputes, is an ongoing challenge.

• Adapting to Evolving Standards: Staying abreast of changes in building codes, educational facility design trends, and sustainability requirements, and integrating these into ongoing projects.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

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

• Regulatory Expertise: Deepening knowledge of California's DSA processes, building codes, and public works contracting laws.

• Leadership Development: Training and mentorship programs within MAAS Companies, particularly focused on managing teams, strategic planning, and leadership within an employee-owned structure.

• Industry Conferences & Seminars: Participation in industry events focused on educational facilities design, construction, and project management best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for senior roles in public sector project management, emphasizing the need for resilience, strong problem-solving skills, and a deep understanding of regulatory environments. The growth opportunities are well-defined and align with career progression in operations and project leadership.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for selecting an architecture firm for a complex school renovation project. What key criteria do you prioritize?"

  • Preparation: Outline a structured process, emphasizing objective evaluation, past performance, technical expertise, and cultural fit. Be ready to discuss how you'd assess a firm's understanding of DSA requirements.

• "How do you ensure that design changes during a project remain within budget and do not negatively impact the schedule?"

  • Preparation: Explain your change management process, including impact assessment (cost, schedule, scope), stakeholder approval protocols, and proactive cost control measures.

• "Imagine a project where the initial design is significantly over budget. What immediate steps would you take, and how would you work with the A&E team to find solutions?"

  • Preparation: Focus on analytical skills, collaborative problem-solving, value engineering approaches, and clear communication strategies to align stakeholders on revised plans.

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for an employee-owned company like MAAS Companies?"

  • Preparation: Research ESOPs and MAAS's specific model. Express genuine interest in shared ownership, long-term commitment, and collaborative culture.

• "How do you see your experience in facilities design management contributing to MAAS Companies' mission of serving educational institutions?"

  • Preparation: Connect your past achievements and operational philosophy to the company's specific focus on schools and public service.

• "Describe a time you had to manage a difficult stakeholder or consultant relationship. How did you resolve it?"

  • Preparation: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to illustrate your conflict resolution, negotiation, and communication skills, emphasizing a focus on project success.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Tell a Story: Frame your project examples as narratives of challenge, solution, and successful outcome. Focus on your role as the manager and decision-maker.

• Highlight Key Metrics: Quantify your achievements whenever possible (e.g., budget savings, schedule acceleration, compliance success, reduction in design errors).

• Demonstrate Process: Clearly explain the processes you followed for A&E selection, design review, change management, and stakeholder communication.

• Showcase Problem-Solving: Use examples to illustrate how you tackled complex design issues, managed risks, and ensured compliance with regulations like DSA.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to assess a candidate's ability to manage complex projects, lead external partners, navigate regulatory landscapes, and thrive in an employee-owned company culture. A well-prepared portfolio and thoughtful answers to strategy questions will be critical.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position at MAAS Companies:

• Submit your application through the provided link on Workable.

• Tailor your Resume: Ensure your resume clearly highlights your 8+ years of facilities design and capital project management experience, with a specific emphasis on the 4+ years in school or public agency construction. Use keywords from the job description, such as "facilities design," "capital projects," "contract administration," "cost estimating," "scheduling," "design review," and "DSA."

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate 3-5 key projects that best demonstrate your experience managing the design phase of capital improvement projects, especially those in public or educational settings. Focus on quantifiable achievements and your role in managing A&E consultants and ensuring compliance.

• Research MAAS Companies: Understand their history, their commitment to employee ownership (ESOP), their client base (primarily educational institutions), and their project management approach. Be prepared to articulate why you are a strong cultural fit.

• Practice Your Interview Responses: Rehearse answers to common interview questions, particularly those related to project management, design oversight, stakeholder management, and your experience with public sector regulations. Practice presenting your portfolio case studies 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 MAAS Companies before making application decisions.