Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager

Company: Sound Transit

Location: Seattle, Washington, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Engineering / Project Management

Date Posted: 2026-08-18T22:32:47.849

Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (5-10 years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage the comprehensive design delivery of complex transit infrastructure projects, including light rail, heavy passenger rail, and bus systems, within a large public agency.

• Oversee and guide multidisciplinary design consultant teams, ensuring the technical quality, value, and timely delivery of architectural, civil, structural, track, and other engineering disciplines.

• Administer and manage design consultant contracts, including scope development, budgeting, scheduling, risk assessment, and construction support.

• Foster strong cross-departmental collaboration with Operations, Engineering, Architecture, Planning, Safety, and other internal stakeholders to align design solutions with agency needs.

• Ensure compliance with all applicable Federal, State, and local laws, codes, policies, and regulations, while championing agency values and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is crucial for the Capital Delivery Department, specifically Delivery Team One, supporting major projects like Infill Stations, At-Grade Crossings, East Link Extension, West Link Extension, and the Unified Control Center. The Design Manager will report to a Project or Design Director and will play a pivotal role in shaping the agency's infrastructure development.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and inspire a technical team of subject matter experts to creatively solve complex design challenges across various transit project elements.

• Supervise, coach, train, and motivate design staff, contributing to workforce planning and project team development.

• Manage multiple smaller-scale transit-related design efforts, encompassing architectural, civil, traffic, track, structural, geotechnical, landscaping, ventilation, station electrical, lighting, transit-oriented development, and urban design.

• Coordinate design efforts across multiple work teams and engineering subject matter experts, ensuring seamless integration of all design components.

• Provide cross-departmental program, design, and requirements coordination with Operations, Passenger Experience, the Project Management Office, and IT to ensure holistic project alignment.

• Administer design consultant contracts, including developing scopes of work, managing budgets and schedules, conducting peer and design reviews, packaging contracts, and performing risk assessments.

• Drive the technical resolution of milestone design submission comments through collaborative engagement with project design teams and stakeholders.

• Support the development and negotiation of agreements and permits with third parties, including state and local agencies, utilities, and private property owners, essential for project delivery.

• Provide comprehensive design support during construction, including contract management, recommendations for errors and omissions, resolution of design-related non-conformance issues, and change management.

• Prepare and present staff reports and correspondence to Sound Transit leadership, including the Board and Executive leadership, on design-related matters.

• Represent the agency at professional group meetings, industry events, and public forums, maintaining awareness of new trends and developments in transit design and engineering.

• Ensure consistent and effective interpretation and application of processes, policies, and procedures across all design activities.

• Champion and model Sound Transit's core values, demonstrating values-based behaviors in all interactions and contributing to a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on managing "multiple smaller-scale transit related designs" suggests a need for strong organizational skills and the ability to juggle diverse project scopes simultaneously. The responsibility for "technical resolution of milestone design submission comments" highlights the importance of deep technical understanding and effective communication with consultants.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

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

• A minimum of five (5) years of progressive experience in civil/structural engineering design and construction.

• Three (3) years of experience in leadership, budgetary management, planning, and workforce management, preferably within a rail or transit-related environment. Required Licenses or Certifications:

• Professional Civil Engineer (PE) license or Professional Architect (RA) license issued by the State of Washington. Required Skills:

• Advanced understanding of principles and practices for managing professional design services and project design development.

• Strong knowledge of Federal, State, and local policies, laws, codes, and regulations relevant to transit infrastructure projects.

• Advanced knowledge of project management principles and their application in complex infrastructure development.

• Expertise in the operations, services, and activities of transit engineering, site civil, and construction programs.

• Proficiency in obtaining design consulting services and understanding various contracting methods, including developing scopes of work, reports, studies, cost estimates, plans, and specifications.

• Familiarity with contract and procurement strategies, and alternative contract forms such as GCCM and design-build.

• Excellent oral and written communication skills for effectively conveying technical information to diverse audiences, including senior leadership and the public.

• Strong public speaking skills and the ability to represent the agency professionally at public meetings and executive-level discussions.

• Proven supervisory and team leadership capabilities, with a focus on motivating and developing technical staff.

• Demonstrated ability to perform negotiations and build partnerships with local jurisdictions, agencies, utilities, contractors, and community groups.

• Skill in preparing, reviewing, interpreting, analyzing, and modifying complex engineering plans, drawings, specifications, contract documents, and engineering reports.

• Ability to apply advanced project management and contract management techniques and principles.

• Proficiency in utilizing personal computer software for data analysis, spreadsheet creation, and report generation.

• Exceptional ability to collaborate effectively by establishing and maintaining strong working relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

• Ability to interpret and administer policies and procedures, explaining them clearly to staff and other constituencies.

• Strong time management skills, with the ability to work independently, prioritize, and delegate workload effectively.

• Capacity to work effectively under pressure, meet demanding deadlines, and adapt to changing priorities. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with alternative contract forms such as GCCM (Guaranteed Maximum Cost) and progressive design-build.

• Familiarity with transit-oriented development (TOD) principles and urban design integration.

• Experience with specific transit infrastructure projects such as light rail extensions or unified control centers.

• Knowledge of sustainability principles in design and construction.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a Washington State PE or RA license is a critical gatekeeper. The blend of technical engineering/architecture knowledge with project and contract management expertise, coupled with strong leadership and communication skills, defines the core competency for this role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in civil/structural engineering design and construction, with at least 3 years in a leadership capacity.

• Demonstrate successful management of design consultant contracts, including scope development, budget adherence, and schedule management.

• Provide examples of complex transit-related design projects managed, highlighting your role in coordinating architectural, civil, structural, track, or other engineering disciplines.

• Include evidence of technical problem-solving and resolution of design submission comments or construction-related design issues.

• Highlight experience in stakeholder coordination and collaboration with internal departments (Operations, Planning, Safety) and external entities (agencies, utilities, property owners). Process Documentation:

• Present examples of how you have managed design consultant contracts, including scope of work definition, contract packaging, and risk assessments.

• Detail your approach to ensuring technical resolution of design milestone submissions and managing design support during construction, including error/omission recommendations and change management.

• Illustrate your process for cross-departmental coordination and ensuring design alignment with operational and programmatic requirements.

• Showcase your experience in developing and negotiating agreements and permits with third parties.

• Demonstrate your understanding of contract and procurement strategies, including familiarity with alternative contract forms like GCCM and design-build.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal "portfolio" isn't explicitly requested, candidates are expected to "demonstrate" their experience and skills. This implies preparing specific project examples and case studies that illustrate their capabilities in managing design processes, contracts, and teams, particularly within a public transit context.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $107,000 - $213,000 annually, with a midpoint of $160,000. New hires typically receive compensation between the minimum and midpoint, with potential for higher placement based on experience, internal equity, and market conditions.

Benefits:

• Health Benefits: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans provided at no cost for employee coverage, with options for employee and eligible dependent coverage (spouse/domestic partner).

• Insurance: Long-Term Disability and Life Insurance coverage.

• Employee Assistance Program: Support services available to employees.

• Retirement Plans:

  • 401a: 10% employee contribution with a 12% employer match from Sound Transit.
  • 457b: Employee-only contribution up to the IRS maximum.

• Paid Time Off (PTO):

  • Accrual of 25 days annually, increasing at 4, 8, and 12 years of service.
  • Director-level employees and above accrue additional PTO days.
  • 12 paid holidays observed annually.
  • Up to 2 paid floating holidays per year.
  • Up to 2 paid volunteer days per year.

• Parental Leave: 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents.

• Pet Insurance: Discounted pet insurance.

• ORCA Card: Full-time employees receive a complimentary ORCA card for transit use.

• Tuition Reimbursement: Up to $5,000 annually for approved educational expenses.

• Reproductive Health Support: Inclusive reproductive health support services.

• Work-Life Balance & Professional Development: Emphasis on work-life balance, opportunities for professional development, and recognition programs.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is substantial, reflecting the senior-level nature and critical responsibilities of this Design Manager role within a major public transportation agency. The benefits package is exceptionally robust, particularly the high employer match for the 401a and the generous PTO, which are significant advantages for long-term employees.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Transportation / Public Sector / Infrastructure Development. Sound Transit is a major public agency responsible for developing and operating regional transit systems in the Puget Sound area, contributing significantly to the region's economic and environmental well-being.

Company Size: Sound Transit is a large public organization, typically employing over 1,000 individuals, with a significant number of employees involved in capital projects and engineering. This scale implies a structured environment with established processes and a diverse workforce.

Founded: Sound Transit was established in 1993, indicating a long-standing presence and deep experience in public transit development. This history suggests a mature organization with established project management methodologies and a strategic long-term vision for regional connectivity.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager is part of the Capital Delivery Department, specifically within Delivery Team One. This team is responsible for a portfolio of major capital projects.

• The role reports to a Project or Design Director or Senior Design Manager, indicating a clear reporting hierarchy within the project management structure.

• The team structure likely involves close collaboration with various internal departments such as Operations, Engineering, Architecture, Urban Design, Planning, Safety, and Quality Assurance, as well as external design consultants. Methodology:

• Data Analysis & Insights: While not explicitly detailed for this role, Sound Transit likely uses data to inform project planning, performance monitoring, and decision-making, especially concerning operational efficiency and ridership.

• Workflow Planning & Optimization: The role inherently involves managing and optimizing design workflows, consultant performance, and inter-departmental coordination to ensure efficient project delivery.

• Automation & Efficiency: The agency likely leverages project management software, BIM (Building Information Modeling), and other digital tools to streamline design processes, improve collaboration, and enhance efficiency.

Company Website: https://www.soundtransit.org/

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Capital Delivery Department" and "Delivery Team One" context suggests a project-centric operational structure. The role's success will hinge on navigating the complexities of public sector project management, stakeholder engagement, and regulatory compliance within a large, established transit authority.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior-level management position, requiring significant experience in design and engineering leadership within large-scale infrastructure projects. It signifies a move into a strategic oversight role, managing both people and complex technical deliverables.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager reports to a Project or Design Director or Senior Design Manager, placing them within the senior leadership of a specific project or portfolio within the Capital Delivery Department. This structure allows for direct guidance and oversight from experienced leaders.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's work directly impacts the successful planning, execution, and delivery of critical public transit infrastructure. Their ability to ensure high-quality, cost-effective, and timely designs directly contributes to Sound Transit's mission of expanding and improving regional mobility, affecting thousands of commuters and the economic vitality of the Puget Sound region.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Potential to advance to a Senior Design Manager, Project Director, or Program Manager role, overseeing larger and more complex projects or portfolios of work.

• Leadership Development: Opportunities to further hone leadership skills by managing larger teams, mentoring junior staff, and taking on more strategic project responsibilities.

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas of transit design (e.g., stations, systems, urban integration) or in advanced project delivery methods like design-build.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Gain broader experience by collaborating across different Sound Transit departments, understanding the full lifecycle of transit development from planning to operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "5 years of experience in civil/structural engineering design and construction" coupled with "3 years of leadership" indicates a candidate is likely mid-career or beyond, ready for significant management responsibilities. The listed projects (East Link, West Link) are substantial, suggesting ample opportunity for continued growth and impact.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid work environment, requiring a minimum of 3 days per week in the office. This balances the need for in-person collaboration and oversight with flexibility.

Office Location(s): The primary work location is Seattle, WA (specifically within the 98104 zip code, which is downtown Seattle). Sound Transit may have multiple project sites or offices, but the core administrative and project management functions are likely based in the Seattle metropolitan area.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The hybrid model and emphasis on cross-departmental coordination suggest a dynamic and collaborative workspace, both within the immediate design team and across broader project teams.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Expect access to standard project management software, CAD/BIM platforms, and communication tools necessary for managing complex design projects and consultant interactions.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular interaction with design consultants, internal engineering and operations staff, project leadership, and potentially public stakeholders during project phases.

Work Schedule: Standard 40-hour work week, with the expectation of flexibility to meet project deadlines and address urgent issues, common in large-scale capital project environments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid requirement is a key factor for candidates to consider. While offering flexibility, the minimum of 3 days in the office emphasizes the importance of in-person collaboration and team presence for this management role.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to ensure minimum qualifications (degree, experience, WA PE/RA license) are met.

• Technical Interview: Likely involves detailed discussions about your experience managing design consultants, handling complex design challenges, contract administration, and your technical expertise in relevant engineering or architectural disciplines. Be prepared to discuss specific projects and your role in them.

• Behavioral/Situational Interview: Questions will assess your leadership style, team management approach, conflict resolution skills, ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders, and how you handle pressure and deadlines.

• Presentation/Case Study (Potential): You may be asked to present a past project in detail, focusing on design challenges, solutions, and outcomes, or a hypothetical scenario related to design management. This is where your "portfolio" of experience will be showcased.

• Final Interview: With senior leadership (e.g., Director of Capital Delivery), focusing on strategic fit, cultural alignment, and overall suitability for the role and agency.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Relevant Projects: Select 2-3 key projects that best demonstrate your experience in managing complex transit design, consultant oversight, contract administration, and cross-functional collaboration.

• Focus on Your Role: Clearly articulate your specific responsibilities, decision-making authority, and contributions to each project's success.

• Quantify Achievements: Wherever possible, use metrics to highlight impact: budget managed, schedule adherence, cost savings, risk mitigation, team size led, number of consultants managed.

• Highlight Process: Explain your approach to contract management, design reviews, stakeholder engagement, and problem-solving.

• Prepare for Technical Depth: Be ready to discuss technical aspects of the projects, design challenges, and how you ensured quality and compliance.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Management Scenarios: Anticipate questions about how you would handle a design consultant falling behind schedule, a major design error discovered during construction, or conflicting requirements from different departments.

• Leadership & Team Building: Prepare examples of how you've motivated teams, resolved conflicts, and developed staff.

• Stakeholder Management: Think about how you've managed expectations and built consensus among diverse groups (e.g., public, elected officials, internal departments, contractors).

• Contract Management: Be ready to discuss your experience with contract negotiations, scope changes, and dispute resolution.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the public sector nature and the emphasis on contract management and stakeholder coordination, expect interview questions that probe your ability to navigate complex organizational structures and external relationships. The WA PE/RA license is a non-negotiable requirement.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency with enterprise-level project management tools (e.g., Primavera P6, Microsoft Project, Procore, Oracle Aconex) for scheduling, progress tracking, and reporting on capital projects.

• Design Software Collaboration: Familiarity with the ecosystem of design software used by consultants, including CAD (e.g., AutoCAD, MicroStation), BIM (e.g., Revit, Navisworks), and GIS platforms. While not expected to be a user, understanding their application and outputs is key.

• Contract Management Systems: Experience with systems or processes for managing design consultant contracts, including document control, change orders, and payment processing.

• Document Management Systems: Proficiency with systems for managing large volumes of project documentation, including plans, specifications, reports, and correspondence.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Performance Dashboards: Ability to interpret and utilize data from project management and financial systems to create reports and dashboards for leadership, tracking design progress, budget status, and key performance indicators (KPIs).

• Cost Estimating Tools: Understanding of cost estimating principles and software used in the industry for evaluating consultant proposals and project budgets.

CRM & Automation:

• Internal Communication Platforms: Proficiency with tools like Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, or similar for internal communication, document sharing, and team collaboration.

• ERP Systems (Indirect): Awareness of how design and project data integrates with broader Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems for financial management and procurement.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific tool names aren't listed, the role demands a strong understanding of the types of software and systems used in large-scale infrastructure project management and design delivery. The ability to manage consultants using their tools and integrate information into Sound Transit's systems is crucial.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding ethical standards in all dealings, especially concerning public funds and contractual obligations. Being accountable for design quality and project outcomes.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a cooperative environment where internal departments and external consultants work together effectively towards shared project goals.

• Innovation & Excellence: Encouraging creative problem-solving in design and striving for the highest standards of quality and efficiency in project delivery.

• Safety & Sustainability: Prioritizing safety in all design considerations and integrating sustainable practices into project development.

• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI): Actively promoting an inclusive environment and ensuring equitable practices in hiring, contracting, and project engagement.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Proactive engagement with Operations, Planning, Safety, and other departments to ensure designs meet current and future needs and are integrated seamlessly.

• Consultant Partnership: Building strong, professional relationships with design consultants, treating them as partners in project delivery while holding them accountable to contractual terms.

• Open Communication: Encouraging transparent communication, feedback, and constructive challenge among team members and stakeholders to drive continuous improvement and identify potential issues early.

• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting the sharing of best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise across project teams and the broader Sound Transit organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: Sound Transit explicitly mentions championing core values and DEI. Candidates should be prepared to articulate how they embody these values in their leadership and management approach, particularly in relation to public service and infrastructure development.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Complex Stakeholder Needs: Balancing the diverse and sometimes competing requirements of internal departments, external agencies, community groups, and elected officials.

• Navigating Public Sector Procurement & Contracts: Adhering to strict public procurement laws and managing complex design contracts with multiple consultants and potential for disputes.

• Technical Complexity of Transit Projects: Overseeing design for intricate systems (rail, power, signals, stations) that require deep technical understanding and integration across disciplines.

• Budget and Schedule Pressures: Delivering large-scale public infrastructure projects within tight budgets and demanding timelines, often subject to public scrutiny.

• Maintaining Design Quality Under Pressure: Ensuring high technical standards and constructability while consultants and internal teams are under pressure to meet deadlines and cost targets.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Contract Delivery Methods: Gaining deeper expertise in managing alternative delivery methods like GCCM and design-build, which are increasingly common in large infrastructure projects.

• Transit System Design Specialization: Expanding knowledge of specific transit system components (e.g., power systems, signaling, station architecture, urban integration) through project exposure and professional development.

• Leadership and Management Training: Opportunities for formal leadership training, executive coaching, and mentorship within Sound Transit's framework.

• Industry Conferences & Certifications: Potential to attend industry conferences (e.g., APTA, WTS) and pursue relevant certifications to stay abreast of best practices and network with peers.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges highlight the need for a candidate with strong resilience, exceptional problem-solving skills, and a deep understanding of both technical project execution and public sector dynamics. The growth opportunities are substantial for those looking to build a career in major public infrastructure development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Strategy: "Describe your approach to developing and managing a comprehensive design strategy for a major transit infrastructure project like the East Link Extension. How do you ensure alignment with operational requirements and long-term agency goals?" (Focus on phased approach, stakeholder buy-in, risk management.)

• Consultant Management: "How do you select, onboard, and manage design consultants to ensure they deliver high-quality work on time and within budget? What strategies do you employ to address underperformance or contractual disputes?" (Emphasize clear SOWs, performance metrics, proactive communication, escalation paths.)

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: "This role requires close coordination with Operations, Planning, and Safety. Can you provide an example of a complex design challenge you resolved through effective cross-departmental collaboration? What was your role in facilitating that collaboration?" (Highlight communication, understanding diverse needs, finding common ground.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• Values Alignment: "Sound Transit emphasizes its core values and DEI. How have you championed diversity, equity, and inclusion in your previous leadership roles, particularly in managing design teams or consultants?" (Provide specific examples of inclusive practices, fair treatment, equitable decision-making.)

• Public Sector Context: "What unique challenges and rewards do you see in managing design for a public agency like Sound Transit compared to the private sector? How do you navigate public scrutiny and accountability?" (Discuss transparency, public service, long-term impact, regulatory environment.)

• Leadership Philosophy: "Describe your leadership style. How do you motivate a team of subject matter experts, and how do you foster a culture of accountability and continuous improvement?" (Focus on empowerment, clear expectations, feedback, development.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, use a STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) focusing on your leadership actions and the tangible outcomes achieved.

• Quantify Impact: Use data to demonstrate the scale of projects (budget, scope), your management impact (cost savings, schedule adherence), and team performance.

• Highlight Process Excellence: Clearly explain your methodologies for contract administration, risk assessment, design review, and stakeholder communication.

• Showcase Problem-Solving: Present 1-2 specific instances where you faced a significant design or contractual challenge and how you successfully navigated it, detailing the steps taken and the resolution.

• Connect to Sound Transit: Whenever possible, draw parallels between your experience and the specific projects or challenges Sound Transit is facing (e.g., East Link, West Link Extension).

📝 Enhancement Note: Be prepared to discuss your WA PE or RA license early in the process. For technical questions, focus on your management and oversight capabilities rather than deep, hands-on design execution, as this is a management role.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

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

• Tailor Your Resume: Emphasize your 5+ years of civil/structural engineering design and construction experience, highlighting your 3+ years in leadership, budgeting, planning, and workforce management. Clearly state your active Washington State PE or RA license. Use keywords from the job description such as "design management," "contract management," "transit infrastructure," "stakeholder coordination," and "project delivery."

• Prepare Your "Portfolio" Examples: Compile specific project examples that demonstrate your experience managing design consultants, handling complex transit design elements (architectural, civil, structural, etc.), administering contracts, and resolving technical issues. Be ready to discuss these in detail during interviews.

• Research Sound Transit: Understand their mission, current major projects (East Link, West Link, etc.), and their commitment to public service, sustainability, and DEI. Familiarize yourself with their organizational structure and the role of the Capital Delivery Department.

• Practice Interview Responses: Rehearse answers to common interview questions, focusing on leadership, problem-solving, stakeholder management, and your technical/project management experience. Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method and be ready to present your project highlights.