Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager

Company: The Haskell Company

Location: Frisco, Texas, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Design & Engineering Operations

Date Posted: 2026-08-11

Experience Level: 8+ Years Progressive Experience / Senior Level

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversees the end-to-end design project lifecycle for small to medium-sized projects, ensuring successful execution from proposal to closeout.

• Leads and mentors design teams, fostering collaboration and driving the achievement of project goals, with a significant emphasis on Process Engineering.

• Manages design schedules, consultant agreements, and financial performance, ensuring adherence to prime contract requirements and company policies.

• Facilitates design reviews to uphold quality objectives and ensures compliance with all relevant architectural and engineering systems and modeling standards.

• Cultivates strong client relationships and promotes a commitment to safe work practices throughout the design and execution phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a "Design Manager" but has a strong emphasis on "Process Engineering" within the context of project execution. This suggests a blend of project management and specialized technical oversight, particularly relevant for clients in process-driven industries. The "Hybrid" work arrangement implies a need for strong remote collaboration and on-site presence, necessitating excellent communication and time management skills.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Execute comprehensive project design management for designated projects, overseeing all phases from initial proposal development through final project closeout.

• Lead and inspire design teams, promoting a collaborative environment to achieve all project objectives, with a specific focus on process engineering elements.

• Develop, monitor, and update project design schedules, ensuring efficient sequencing and proactively communicating any changes to the project team.

• Qualify and manage design consultants, preparing Professional Service Agreements that effectively minimize risk for The Haskell Company.

• Evaluate and manage project scope changes, including add services, and their impact on project schedule and budget.

• Prepare and disseminate clear, concise, and professional project communications, both orally and in writing, to all stakeholders.

• Foster and maintain positive working relationships with clients, internal teams, and external partners, establishing a foundation of trust and reliability.

• Champion and ensure adherence to safe work practices throughout the design document development and field execution phases.

• Facilitate and monitor rigorous design reviews to guarantee that project quality objectives are met and standards are upheld.

• Employ standard project management tools and techniques, ensuring compliance with all company policies and procedures from proposal to project close-out.

• Forecast and report on project financial performance, conducting regular reviews with design business unit leaders and project leaders for integrated projects.

• Solicit and incorporate input from various practice areas for the development of fee proposals and change order requests.

• Travel as required to project sites, client meetings, or other Haskell Company locations to support project needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of traditional project management (scheduling, financial forecasting, client relations) and technical design oversight, particularly in process engineering. The emphasis on risk mitigation in Professional Service Agreements and compliance with Prime Contract requirements points to a need for strong contractual and legal awareness.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Architecture is preferred. Experience:

• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in a design discipline, demonstrating a clear trajectory towards becoming an independent lead designer. Required Skills:

• Proven experience in Project Management, including scope definition, scheduling, and execution oversight.

• Strong understanding and application of Process Engineering principles and methodologies.

• Expertise in Design Management, leading teams and ensuring quality design deliverables.

• Proficiency in developing and managing Project Schedules using industry-standard tools.

• Experience in preparing and negotiating Professional Service Agreements and managing consultant relationships.

• Ability to conduct and facilitate Design Reviews to ensure quality and compliance.

• Demonstrated success in managing Project Financial Performance and forecasting.

• Excellent written and oral Communication Skills for effective stakeholder engagement.

• Strong Client Relationship Management capabilities.

• Commitment to Safe Work Practices and understanding of safety protocols in design and construction.

• Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint for documentation, analysis, and presentations.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment.

• Excellent Time Management Skills with the ability to adapt to changing timelines and meet deadlines. Preferred Skills:

• Professional registration (PE, RA) or eligibility to obtain.

• Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.

• Knowledge of various architectural and engineering systems, including facilities, process, and/or packaging systems.

• Familiarity with drawing production software and integrated project modeling requirements.

• Experience with advanced project management and design software.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "8+ years" derived from "8+ years of progressive experience" and "independent lead designer" implies a senior-level role. The preference for professional registration and PMP certification, alongside the requirement for "intermediate" Microsoft Office skills, suggests a need for a candidate with a solid foundational skillset who is also capable of advanced technical and managerial contributions. The explicit mention of "Process Engineering" as an emphasis is a critical keyword for ATS and candidate targeting.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrations of successfully managed design projects, highlighting the candidate's role in scope, schedule, and budget adherence.

• Case studies showcasing expertise in Process Engineering, detailing problem identification, solution development, and implementation outcomes.

• Examples of project documentation, including design schedules, consultant agreements, and financial reports, to illustrate process adherence.

• Evidence of successful client and consultant relationship management, with outcomes that reflect positive collaboration and trust.

• Documentation of process improvements or efficiencies implemented within design project management. Process Documentation:

• Showcase proficiency in developing and managing project design schedules, detailing methodologies used for sequencing and tracking.

• Provide examples of risk mitigation strategies employed in Professional Service Agreements and consultant management.

• Illustrate the process for conducting design reviews, including checklists, feedback mechanisms, and resolution tracking.

• Present examples of financial forecasting and reporting for design projects, demonstrating accuracy and clarity.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the role's emphasis on project management and process engineering, a portfolio should clearly articulate the candidate's ability to manage complex workflows, mitigate risks, and deliver projects within scope, budget, and schedule. Quantifiable achievements and specific process methodologies will be key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on the experience level (8+ years progressive experience, Senior Level), location (Frisco, Texas), and the specialized nature of Process Engineering within Design Management, the estimated salary range for this position is $110,000 - $150,000 annually. Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance plans.

• Retirement Savings Plan (e.g., 401k) with company match.

• Paid Time Off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

• Professional Development opportunities, including training and certifications related to Project Management and Process Engineering.

• Life and Disability Insurance coverage.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses or incentives.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

• Recognition programs for outstanding performance and contributions. Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are typically 40 hours per week.

• The role is designated as Hybrid, requiring a balance of on-site presence and remote work. Specific office attendance days may vary.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is estimated based on industry benchmarks for Design Managers with 8+ years of experience, PMP certification, and a strong Process Engineering focus in a major metropolitan area like Frisco, Texas. Benefits are typical for a company of Haskell's size and industry recognition as a Top Workplace.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry:

• The Haskell Company operates within the Construction and Engineering industry, specializing in design-build services. This sector demands precision, efficiency, and strong project execution, making operations roles critical for success. Their focus on diverse perspectives and inclusive thinking as a "nationally recognized Top Workplace" suggests a culture that values collaboration, innovation, and employee well-being. Company Size:

• While not explicitly stated, Haskell is a nationally recognized company, suggesting a medium to large enterprise size, likely with hundreds to thousands of employees. This size typically means established processes, opportunities for cross-functional collaboration, and a structured career path. Founded:

• Founded in 1965, Haskell has a long history of providing integrated design-build solutions, indicating stability, deep industry expertise, and a well-established reputation. This longevity suggests a company that values long-term relationships and sustained growth. Team Structure:

• The Design Manager will likely be part of a larger Engineering or Design department. This department may be structured by discipline (e.g., Civil, Structural, MEP, Process) or by project type/sector.

• The role reports to a Director or Vice President of Design/Engineering, with direct oversight of design consultants and project team members assigned to specific projects.

• Cross-functional collaboration will be essential, working closely with Project Managers, Construction teams, Estimators, Procurement, and Business Development. Methodology:

• Haskell's "Top Workplace" status and emphasis on "diverse perspectives and inclusive thinking" suggest a collaborative and data-informed approach to operations.

• They likely employ structured project management methodologies (e.g., PMI, Agile principles adapted for construction) to ensure project success.

• A focus on "excellence" implies a commitment to continuous improvement and high-quality deliverables.

• The emphasis on "trust" and "support" points to a culture that values employee development and open communication. Company Website:

• https://careers.haskell.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's description as a "nationally recognized Top Workplace" is a significant differentiator. This implies a strong emphasis on employee satisfaction, work-life balance, and a positive organizational culture, which are attractive to operations professionals seeking stability and a supportive environment. The focus on "diverse perspectives and inclusive thinking" suggests an openness to innovative approaches and varied problem-solving techniques.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level:

• This Design Manager role represents a Senior-Level position within the operations and engineering functions. It requires significant experience, the ability to lead teams and projects independently, and a strategic understanding of project execution from a design perspective. The role is pivotal in translating client needs into constructible designs while managing associated risks and resources. Reporting Structure:

• The Design Manager typically reports to a higher-level executive within the Design or Engineering division, such as a Director of Design, VP of Engineering, or a similar senior operational leader.

• They will directly manage and mentor assigned design teams and external design consultants, providing guidance and performance feedback. Operations Impact:

• The Design Manager's impact is critical to the overall success of Haskell's design-build projects. Effective design management ensures projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards, directly influencing client satisfaction, profitability, and the company's reputation.

• By emphasizing Process Engineering, this role directly impacts the efficiency and effectiveness of the operational processes being designed, which can lead to significant long-term cost savings and performance improvements for clients. Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Progression to roles like Director of Design, VP of Engineering, or Senior Project Director, overseeing larger and more complex projects or multiple design disciplines.

• Specialization Deepening: Further specialization within Process Engineering for specific industries (e.g., food & beverage, pharmaceutical, advanced manufacturing) or advanced project management methodologies.

• Business Development: Opportunities to contribute to pre-sales efforts, proposal development, and client relationship management at a more strategic level.

• Mentorship & Training: Becoming a key mentor for junior designers and engineers, contributing to the development of Haskell's internal talent pool.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth opportunities are framed around advancing within Haskell's established structure, leveraging the company's long history and "Top Workplace" status. The emphasis on "impact" highlights how operational efficiency and design excellence directly contribute to the company's bottom line and market position.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type:

• This is a Hybrid role, meaning it involves a combination of working from a physical Haskell Company office and working remotely. The office environment is likely professional and collaborative, designed to support project teams and client interactions. Office Location(s):

• The primary office location for this role is in Frisco, Texas. Haskell has multiple offices across the United States, but this specific role is based in Frisco. Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Spaces: Offices are expected to have meeting rooms, project team areas, and common spaces conducive to collaboration, brainstorming, and design reviews.

• Technology Access: Employees will have access to necessary hardware, software (including design and project management tools), and network infrastructure to perform their duties effectively, whether in the office or remotely.

• Team Interaction: The hybrid model necessitates proactive communication and engagement with team members and stakeholders, both virtually and in person. This encourages efficient use of in-office time for high-impact collaborative activities.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week.

• The hybrid arrangement offers flexibility, allowing employees to balance work responsibilities with personal needs. Specific days in the office may be determined by team needs, project phase, or management discretion.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Hybrid" aspect is crucial. Candidates should be comfortable with managing their time effectively across different work locations and maintaining strong communication channels with their team, regardless of physical proximity. This requires self-discipline and proficiency with remote collaboration tools.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Initial Screening: HR or Talent Acquisition will review applications to assess basic qualifications, experience, and alignment with company culture.

2. Hiring Manager Interview: A conversation with the Hiring Manager to delve deeper into technical skills, project experience, leadership style, and understanding of Process Engineering within design management.

3. Technical/Team Interview: This may involve a panel interview with other design leads, project managers, or senior engineers. It could include scenario-based questions related to project challenges, design problem-solving, and team collaboration.

4. Portfolio Review: Candidates will be asked to present specific examples from their portfolio, showcasing their project management capabilities, design leadership, and Process Engineering expertise. This is a critical stage to demonstrate tangible results and methodologies.

5. Final Interview/Offer: A final conversation with senior leadership to confirm fit and extend an offer.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio by project type or by key skills (e.g., Project Management, Process Engineering, Design Leadership). For each project, clearly outline the scope, your role, challenges faced, solutions implemented, and quantifiable outcomes.

• Process Engineering Focus: Specifically highlight projects where you applied Process Engineering principles. Detail the analytical methods used, the improvements achieved (e.g., efficiency gains, cost reductions, safety enhancements), and the tools or software employed.

• Quantifiable Results: Wherever possible, use metrics and data to demonstrate impact. For example, "Reduced design schedule by 15%" or "Improved process throughput by 10% through re-design."

• Visuals: Include relevant diagrams, schematics, or renderings to visually communicate complex designs or processes.

• Conciseness: Be prepared to present key highlights efficiently, as interview time is often limited. Focus on the most impactful and relevant projects.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss hypothetical project scenarios, such as managing a design team with conflicting priorities, addressing scope creep, or resolving technical design disagreements.

• Prepare to explain your approach to financial forecasting and risk management in design projects.

• Consider how you would integrate Process Engineering considerations from the outset of a design project to maximize operational efficiency for the client.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio review is emphasized as a critical component, suggesting candidates should prepare robust case studies that clearly articulate their process management, design leadership, and specific contributions in Process Engineering. Demonstrating how they've driven efficiency and value through design will be key.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Experience with platforms like Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or similar scheduling and project tracking tools.

• Design & Modeling Software: Familiarity with CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD), BIM tools (e.g., Revit), and potentially specialized process simulation or modeling software (e.g., Aspen HYSYS, Pipe-Flo, or similar for process-specific design).

• Collaboration Platforms: Proficiency with tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or other communication and collaboration suites for hybrid work environments.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Microsoft Excel: Essential for data analysis, financial tracking, and reporting. Advanced functions, pivot tables, and data visualization skills are highly valuable.

• Business Intelligence Tools (Potentially): Familiarity with tools like Power BI or Tableau for creating dashboards and analyzing project performance data.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Software (Basic Understanding): While not a direct CRM role, understanding how client interactions are managed and how project data flows into CRM systems can be beneficial for client relationship management.

• Document Management Systems: Experience with enterprise-level document control systems for managing design documents and project records.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Knowledge of drawing production software and integration requirements for complete project modeling" is a key technical requirement. The emphasis on Process Engineering suggests familiarity with relevant simulation or design software beyond standard CAD/BIM. Strong MS Office skills are a baseline requirement.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence: A commitment to delivering high-quality design and project outcomes that meet or exceed client expectations.

• Trust: Building and maintaining trust with clients, team members, and stakeholders through reliability, transparency, and integrity.

• Collaboration: Fostering an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives are valued and teams work together effectively to solve complex problems.

• Innovation: Encouraging new ideas and approaches to design and project management, particularly in optimizing processes and driving efficiency.

• Safety: Prioritizing safe work practices in all aspects of design and project execution.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Proactively engaging with project managers, construction teams, estimators, and other disciplines to ensure seamless project delivery.

• Open Communication: Encouraging direct and honest communication, providing constructive feedback, and actively listening to team members.

• Client-Centric Approach: Maintaining a strong focus on understanding and meeting client needs and expectations throughout the project lifecycle.

• Mentorship & Development: Supporting the growth of team members through guidance, knowledge sharing, and opportunities for skill development.

📝 Enhancement Note: Haskell's explicit mention of "diverse perspectives and inclusive thinking" and being a "Top Workplace" underscores a culture that values employee contributions and a positive work environment. This is a strong selling point for operations professionals who seek a supportive and forward-thinking organization.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Projects: Effectively managing the demands of several small to medium-sized projects simultaneously, each with its own unique requirements and timelines.

• Integrating Process Engineering: Ensuring that process engineering considerations are deeply embedded in the design from the outset, rather than being an afterthought, especially in projects where it's not the primary discipline.

• Managing Consultant Performance: Ensuring that external design consultants deliver high-quality work on time and within budget, while maintaining positive working relationships.

• Adapting to Client Needs: Navigating evolving client requirements and project scopes while maintaining project integrity and profitability.

• Hybrid Work Management: Effectively leading and collaborating with a team that may be distributed, ensuring consistent communication and productivity across different work locations.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Process Engineering Training: Pursuing certifications or specialized courses in process simulation, optimization, or specific industry applications.

• Project Management Certifications: Obtaining or maintaining PMP certification and developing expertise in advanced project management methodologies.

• Leadership Development Programs: Participating in Haskell's internal leadership training to hone management and team-building skills.

• Industry Conferences: Attending relevant industry events to stay abreast of new technologies, best practices, and emerging trends in design, construction, and process engineering.

• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Gaining exposure to other Haskell disciplines (e.g., construction management, specific industry sectors) to broaden understanding of the integrated design-build process.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges identified are common in project management roles but are specifically tailored to the Design Manager's responsibilities, including the integration of Process Engineering. The growth opportunities are structured to build upon existing experience and align with Haskell's operational needs and career progression paths.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you successfully managed a project with a significant Process Engineering component. What were the key challenges and how did you overcome them?" (Focus on methodology, problem-solving, and outcomes.)

• "How do you ensure effective collaboration between design teams, project managers, and construction personnel, especially in a hybrid work environment?" (Emphasize communication strategies, conflict resolution, and team building.)

• "Walk us through your process for developing and managing a project design schedule, from proposal to closeout. What tools do you use, and how do you handle deviations?" (Highlight your project management lifecycle approach and adaptability.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "How do you align with Haskell's values of excellence, trust, and collaboration, particularly as a 'Top Workplace'?" (Connect your personal work ethic and past experiences to these values.)

• "What is your understanding of Haskell's design-build model, and how does your role as a Design Manager contribute to its success?" (Show you've researched the company's integrated approach.)

• "How do you foster an inclusive environment within your design teams, incorporating diverse perspectives?" (Relate to the company's emphasis on diversity and inclusion.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select Impactful Projects: Choose 2-3 projects that best showcase your project management, design leadership, and Process Engineering expertise.

• Quantify Achievements: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your solution, and the measurable results (e.g., cost savings, schedule improvements, efficiency gains).

• Detail Your Process: Explain the specific methodologies, tools, and strategies you employed. For Process Engineering examples, detail the analytical steps and the impact on operational efficiency.

• Highlight Collaboration: Discuss how you worked with clients, consultants, and internal teams to achieve project success.

• Concise Storytelling: Present each case study as a compelling narrative with a clear beginning, middle, and end, focusing on your contributions and the project's success.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation advice focuses on demonstrating a blend of technical expertise (Process Engineering), project management acumen, leadership qualities, and cultural fit with Haskell's stated values. The portfolio presentation strategy emphasizes the need for quantifiable results and clear articulation of processes.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on The Haskell Company careers page.

• Tailor your resume: Highlight experience in Project Management, Process Engineering, Design Management, and any relevant software proficiency. Use keywords from the job description such as "Process Engineering," "design schedule," "financial performance," and "Professional Service Agreements."

• Prepare your portfolio: Curate examples of projects that demonstrate your ability to manage design projects from proposal to closeout, with a specific focus on Process Engineering applications and quantifiable results.

• Research The Haskell Company: Understand their design-build model, their reputation as a Top Workplace, and their core values to articulate your fit during interviews.

• Practice your interview responses: Prepare for questions related to project management, technical challenges, leadership, and your approach to process optimization and client relations.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with The Haskell Company hiring organization before making application decisions.