Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager

Company: The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company

Location: Towson, Maryland, United States

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Design & Construction Management

Date Posted: 2026-06-05T07:38:32.369

Experience Level: 5-10 years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead comprehensive design services for advanced/alternative design and construction delivery contracts, ensuring seamless integration of design into project execution from inception through completion.

• Act as a key liaison and translator between the design and construction teams, bridging communication gaps and fostering a collaborative, integrated project environment.

• Drive design excellence by guiding all design decisions to meet program requirements, schedule, budget, quality commitments, and client satisfaction.

• Facilitate critical design and constructability reviews, ensuring that all project stakeholders are aligned and that design solutions are practical and efficient.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role of Design Manager at Whiting-Turner is positioned as a crucial leadership function within their advanced/alternative design and construction delivery contracts. This implies a need for a candidate who can not only manage design processes but also strategically influence project outcomes by balancing client needs, design integrity, and construction feasibility. The emphasis on "customer delight" and "design excellence" suggests a client-centric approach with a strong focus on delivering high-quality, innovative solutions.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Provide experienced leadership for comprehensive design services, overseeing the entire design lifecycle from programming through construction administration.

• Partner with designated project and discipline leads to ensure design is fully integrated into the overall execution of design excellence projects.

• Guide all design decisions to maintain program requirements, schedule, budget, quality commitments, and customer delight.

• Facilitate team coordination, constructability, and design quality reviews, ensuring adherence to building codes, zoning regulations, and sustainability measures.

• Support proposal development by contributing written narratives, visual imagery, and graphics, and by guiding the "winning" strategy during project pursuits.

• Review Architectural/Engineering (A/E) scope, contract terms, and lead design fee discussions, ensuring cost-effectiveness and value.

• Champion innovation and the best possible project outcomes for the customer, balancing program, quality, budget, schedule, and sustainability constraints.

• Assist project teams in determining the functionality and quality of the design team's solutions and documentation.

• Manage the flow of information between the client and the design team, and vice versa, ensuring clear and consistent communication.

• Help project teams resolve design-related issues that arise during construction.

• Ensure the design team fulfills its project construction phase and close-out commitments.

• Support the Design Management initiative by building and refining resource tools and processes.

• Facilitate a healthy integrated team structure and workflow, fostering an environment of idea sharing, fairness, inclusion, and diversity of thought.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on strategic leadership and tactical execution. The Design Manager is expected to be involved in business development activities (proposal support, strategy guidance) as well as hands-on project management aspects like issue resolution and information flow. This role requires a strong understanding of both the design and construction phases, with a particular emphasis on managing the integration and communication between these two critical areas.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's Degree in Architecture, Interior Design, Architectural Engineering, or a similar design-related major.

• Professional licensure (e.g., RA, CID, PE) is strongly preferred.

• Consideration given to candidates with a 5-year architectural degree and a minimum of 3 years of experience working for design firms.

• DBIA certification is an added advantage. Experience:

• A minimum of 5 years of post-college experience in Design, Construction, and/or Program/Project Management.

• Experience with an Architectural/Interiors Design Firm, Design-Builder, and/or General Contractor is strongly recommended.

• Preference for candidates with exposure to both design and construction phases beyond their academic experience.

• Proven experience managing projects from the programming phase through Construction Administration.

• Demonstrated experience collaborating effectively with Clients, Design Consultants, Builders, and Subcontractors.

• Experience in Project Management, Conceptual Estimating/Cost Management, and Design Phase Scheduling. Required Skills:

• Design Management: Proven ability to lead and manage the design process from inception to completion.

• Project Management: Strong skills in planning, executing, and closing projects, adhering to scope, budget, and schedule.

• Construction Administration: Expertise in managing design-related aspects during the construction phase.

• BIM Coordination: Proficiency with Autodesk Suite (AutoCAD, Revit, Navisworks) and other BIM software for design integration and clash detection.

• Cost Management: Experience in conceptual estimating and managing project costs throughout the design and construction lifecycle.

• Design Phase Scheduling: Ability to develop and manage schedules specifically for the design process.

• Zoning and Permitting: Comprehensive knowledge of relevant zoning laws and permitting processes.

• Building Codes: Thorough understanding of applicable building codes and standards.

• Inter-disciplinary Coordination: Skill in coordinating design efforts across multiple architectural and engineering disciplines.

• Client Collaboration: Proven ability to build and maintain strong relationships with clients, understanding and meeting their needs.

Preferred Skills:

• Contract Management: Experience with A/E scope, contract terms, and fee negotiations.

• Sustainability Measures: Knowledge of and ability to integrate sustainable design practices.

• Constructability Review: Expertise in evaluating designs for practical construction feasibility.

• Proposal Development: Experience contributing to and guiding winning strategies for project proposals.

• Team Leadership: Demonstrated ability to lead and motivate multi-disciplinary teams.

• Advanced/Alternative Project Delivery Methods: Familiarity with innovative contract and delivery models.

• Emerging Technologies: Awareness of new initiatives and technologies in design and construction.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of technical design knowledge and practical construction management experience. The requirement for at least 5 years post-college experience, coupled with the preference for exposure to both design and construction, indicates a need for a well-rounded professional. Licensure and certifications like DBIA are highly valued, suggesting a company that prioritizes professional development and recognized expertise in the field.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Case Studies: Showcase at least 2-3 significant projects where you managed the design process from programming through construction administration. Highlight your specific role, challenges faced, and solutions implemented.

• Design Integration Examples: Provide evidence of how you integrated design with construction considerations, demonstrating an understanding of constructability, cost, and schedule impacts.

• Collaboration Artifacts: Include examples of communication plans, meeting minutes from design coordination meetings, or logs (e.g., Design Decisions Log) that illustrate your ability to manage inter-disciplinary communication and decision-making.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Detail instances where you proactively identified and resolved complex design challenges, showcasing your analytical and problem-solving skills.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Demonstrate experience in defining, documenting, and optimizing design workflows, including integration with construction processes.

• System Implementation: Show familiarity with implementing and utilizing design and construction management software (e.g., BIM, collaboration platforms) to enhance efficiency and coordination.

• Performance Analysis: Present examples of how you tracked and reported on design progress, quality, budget adherence, and schedule alignment, using data to drive decisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio for this role should emphasize the candidate's ability to manage complex design processes within a construction context. It needs to showcase not just design acumen but also project management skills, communication proficiency, and a strategic understanding of how design impacts overall project success. The ability to demonstrate tangible results through case studies, particularly those involving innovation or overcoming significant challenges, will be crucial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for Design Managers with 5-10 years of experience in the Maryland region, the estimated salary range for this role is between $74,000 and $230,000 annually. This range accounts for variations in specific experience, qualifications, project complexity, and the potential for bonuses or profit-sharing typical in the construction industry.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Retirement savings plan with company match (e.g., 401(k)).

• Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

• Professional development opportunities, including support for continuing education, licensure, and certifications.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses and advancement opportunities within the company.

• Travel reimbursement and per diem for project-related travel. Working Hours:

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

• Flexibility may be required to meet project demands, including occasional extended hours or weekend work during critical project phases.

• Travel is expected during pursuit, design, and construction phases, but typically not for extended periods, unless project requirements dictate.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is a broad estimate reflecting the significant variability in compensation for a Design Manager role, especially within a large, reputable contracting company like Whiting-Turner. Factors such as the specific project types managed, the scale of projects, and the candidate's negotiation skills will influence the final offer. The benefits listed are standard for the industry, with a strong emphasis on professional growth opportunities, which is critical for retaining talent in specialized fields like design management.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction and General Contracting. The Whiting-Turner Contracting Company is a prominent player in the construction industry, known for its comprehensive approach to project delivery, including advanced and alternative design and construction methods.

Company Size: Whiting-Turner is a large organization, employing thousands of individuals across numerous offices. This size offers stability, a wide range of project opportunities, and structured career paths. For operations professionals, this means access to robust systems, established processes, and a large network of colleagues, but also potentially a more formal corporate structure.

Founded: Founded in 1909, Whiting-Turner has a long-standing history and a strong reputation built on decades of successful project delivery and client relationships. This longevity suggests a stable company culture with deep-rooted values and a commitment to long-term success.

Team Structure:

• The Design Management Group is a specialized unit focused on integrating design with construction.

• This role will operate within a multi-disciplinary team environment, often referred to as a "big room" or integrated project team.

• Collaboration will occur with Project Managers, discipline leads (architects, engineers), subcontractors, vendors, and clients.

• Reporting lines will likely involve a senior Design Manager or Director, with direct interaction and guidance provided to project-specific design teams. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Emphasis on using project data (schedule, budget, progress reports) to inform design decisions and manage risks.

• Integrated Project Delivery: Focus on collaborative workflows and communication strategies that align design, pre-construction, and construction phases.

• Continuous Improvement: Encouragement to identify and implement innovative approaches to enhance customer satisfaction, efficiency, and project outcomes.

Company Website: https://www.whiting-turner.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Whiting-Turner's long history and size suggest a culture that values experience, stability, and structured growth. The emphasis on "advanced/alternative design and construction delivery contracts" indicates a forward-thinking approach to project management, embracing innovative methods while maintaining a strong foundation in core construction principles. The "big room" methodology points to a highly collaborative and communicative work environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a mid-to-senior level position within the design and construction management field. It requires a significant amount of independent judgment, leadership, and the ability to manage complex processes and stakeholder relationships. It is a critical role for ensuring the success of design-intensive projects.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will likely report to a senior leader within the Design Management Group or a senior Project Executive. They will, in turn, lead and guide project-specific design teams, which may include architects, engineers, and other design consultants. This structure emphasizes a blend of functional oversight and project-specific team leadership.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's impact is directly tied to the successful execution of projects. By ensuring design quality, constructability, and adherence to budget and schedule, they directly influence project profitability, client satisfaction, and the company's reputation. Effective design management can prevent costly issues during construction, minimize change orders, and enhance the overall value delivered to the client.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Design Manager/Director: Advancement to roles with broader oversight of multiple projects or the entire design management function for a region or business unit.

• Project Executive/Director: Transition into higher-level project leadership roles, managing overall project delivery and client relationships.

• Specialized Expertise: Develop deep expertise in specific project types (e.g., healthcare, life sciences, advanced manufacturing) or delivery methods (e.g., Design-Build, Integrated Project Delivery).

• Business Development: Grow into roles focused on client acquisition and strategic proposal development, leveraging design management expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a significant step in a career focused on the intersection of design and construction. The growth trajectory suggests opportunities to move into more strategic and executive-level positions, managing larger teams and more complex projects. The emphasis on "alternative design and construction delivery contracts" also points to potential growth in roles specializing in modern project delivery methodologies.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in a professional office environment at Whiting-Turner's Towson, Maryland location. This setting typically involves dedicated workspaces, meeting rooms, and collaborative areas conducive to planning and coordination.

Office Location(s): The primary office location is 300 E. Joppa Road, 8th Floor, Towson, Maryland. This location serves as a hub for operations and project management activities. While the role is primarily office-based, significant time will also be spent on project sites during various phases.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The office serves as a central point for team meetings, client presentations, and strategic planning sessions. Expect a dynamic environment where cross-functional teams convene regularly.

• Technology-Enabled: Access to essential software and technology tools for design, project management, and communication will be provided. This includes high-speed internet, networked systems, and potentially dedicated workstations for design software.

• Team Interaction: The role necessitates frequent interaction with colleagues, including project teams, senior management, and support staff, fostering a strong sense of teamwork and shared responsibility.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is full-time, typically 40 hours per week. However, the nature of construction projects often requires flexibility. Candidates should anticipate the need for occasional extended hours or weekend work, particularly during critical project phases like pursuits, key design milestones, or site mobilization. Travel is also a component, integrated into the project lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment at Whiting-Turner is characterized by a blend of structured office operations and dynamic, on-site project engagement. The emphasis on "big room" collaboration suggests an office designed to facilitate teamwork. The need for travel indicates that the role extends beyond the physical office, requiring adaptability and a willingness to engage with project sites and client locations.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

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

• Technical Interview: An in-depth discussion with a hiring manager or senior team member focusing on your design management experience, technical skills (BIM, scheduling, cost), and understanding of construction processes. Be prepared to discuss specific projects and challenges.

• Portfolio Presentation: You will likely be asked to present a selection of your work, showcasing 2-3 key projects. This is an opportunity to demonstrate your problem-solving abilities, leadership, and impact.

• Behavioral/Situational Interview: Questions designed to assess your collaboration style, leadership approach, problem-solving skills, and cultural fit within Whiting-Turner's team-oriented environment.

• Final Interview: A meeting with senior leadership to discuss your career aspirations, overall fit, and confirm mutual interest.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Select High-Impact Projects: Choose projects that best demonstrate your leadership in design management, particularly those involving complex challenges or innovative solutions.

• Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use data to illustrate the impact of your work (e.g., cost savings achieved, schedule improvements, reduction in RFIs).

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly articulate the scope, your role, the challenges, your strategic approach, the solutions implemented, and the positive outcomes.

• Highlight Collaboration: Emphasize how you facilitated communication and collaboration among diverse stakeholders (clients, designers, contractors).

• Demonstrate Technical Proficiency: Be ready to discuss your experience with specific software (Revit, Navisworks, etc.) and how you used them to enhance design and coordination.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Integration Case Study: You may be given a hypothetical project scenario and asked to outline your approach to managing the design process, including key considerations for integration, risk mitigation, and stakeholder engagement.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Prepare to discuss how you would handle common design-related issues during construction, such as unforeseen site conditions, scope discrepancies, or contractor queries.

• Presentation Skills: Practice delivering clear, concise, and engaging presentations, especially when explaining complex design or construction concepts to varied audiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to thoroughly evaluate a candidate's technical expertise, project management capabilities, and leadership potential. A strong portfolio is essential, and candidates should prepare to actively present and defend their work. The emphasis on "winning strategy" and "customer delight" suggests that client-facing skills and a results-oriented mindset will be highly valued.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Autodesk Suite: AutoCAD (2D drafting), Revit (BIM modeling, collaboration), Navisworks (3D model aggregation, clash detection, simulation). Proficiency is essential.

• BIM Software: Experience with other BIM platforms or related tools may be beneficial.

• Collaboration Software: Bluebeam (document review, markup), ProCore (construction project management), Touchplan (construction planning), JOIN (construction process management). Familiarity with these is highly advantageous.

• Project Management Software: Primavera P6 (advanced project scheduling), Microsoft Project, or similar tools for detailed scheduling and resource management.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Office365 Suite: Advanced proficiency in Excel (data analysis, financial modeling), PowerPoint (presentations), SharePoint (document management), and Teams (communication, collaboration).

• Reporting Tools: Ability to generate comprehensive reports on design progress, budget status, and schedule adherence.

CRM & Automation:

• Document Management Systems: Experience with platforms like SharePoint for organizing and sharing project documentation.

• Workflow Automation: While not explicitly stated, an understanding of how to streamline design processes through technology will be valuable.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with the Autodesk Suite, particularly Revit and Navisworks for BIM workflows, is a core technical requirement. Experience with construction management platforms like ProCore and collaboration tools like Bluebeam and Touchplan is highly recommended, indicating a need for a candidate who can leverage technology to enhance design integration and project execution.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity and Professionalism: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all dealings with clients, team members, and partners.

• Teamwork and Collaboration: Fostering a strong sense of shared purpose and mutual respect within multi-disciplinary teams, embodying the "big room" approach.

• Customer Focus: Dedication to understanding and exceeding client expectations, ensuring "customer delight" through exceptional design and execution.

• Innovation and Continuous Improvement: Encouraging new ideas and better ways of working to enhance project outcomes, efficiency, and the company's competitive edge.

• Accountability and Ownership: Taking responsibility for design decisions, project outcomes, and the successful integration of design into construction.

Collaboration Style:

• Integrated and Proactive: Encouraging active participation from all team members, facilitating open communication, and proactively addressing potential conflicts or issues.

• Liaison and Translation: Acting as a bridge between design specialists and construction professionals, ensuring clear understanding and alignment across disciplines.

• Fairness and Inclusion: Creating an environment where diverse thoughts are welcomed, and all team members feel valued and respected, promoting idea sharing and constructive feedback.

📝 Enhancement Note: Whiting-Turner's culture appears to value collaborative problem-solving, strong client relationships, and a commitment to ethical practices. The emphasis on "design excellence" and "customer delight" suggests a high standard of quality and client satisfaction. The "big room" and "idea sharing" culture indicates an environment where open communication and diverse perspectives are encouraged.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Competing Interests: Navigating the inherent tension between design aspirations, construction realities, budget constraints, and schedule demands.

• Managing Diverse Stakeholders: Effectively coordinating and communicating with a wide range of personalities and expertise levels, from clients and architects to subcontractors and field personnel.

• Rapidly Evolving Technologies: Staying current with advancements in BIM, design software, and construction technologies to leverage them for project advantage.

• Project Pursuit Pressure: Contributing effectively to winning new business in a competitive market, requiring strong strategic thinking and presentation skills.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Project Delivery Methods: Gaining deep experience and expertise in alternative project delivery models like Design-Build and Integrated Project Delivery.

• Industry Certifications: Opportunities to pursue and maintain professional licenses (RA, PE) and certifications such as DBIA.

• Mentorship and Leadership: Learning from experienced professionals within Whiting-Turner and developing leadership skills through managing project teams.

• Exposure to Diverse Projects: Working on a wide array of project types and scales, from institutional and commercial to advanced manufacturing and healthcare, broadening your expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for a senior role at the intersection of design and construction, requiring strong interpersonal skills, strategic thinking, and adaptability. The growth opportunities are significant, offering pathways to senior leadership and specialization within a well-established and reputable company.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex design challenge you faced on a project and how you collaborated with the design and construction teams to resolve it." (Focus on your problem-solving process, communication, and ability to balance competing needs.)

• "How do you ensure design goals are met while adhering to stringent budget and schedule requirements?" (Highlight your experience with cost management, value engineering, and proactive schedule monitoring.)

• "Walk us through your process for managing design consultants to ensure quality and timely delivery of documents." (Detail your approach to scope management, progress tracking, and RFI/submittal review.)

• "How do you foster collaboration and communication within an integrated project team, especially when dealing with differing perspectives between design and construction?" (Emphasize your "liaison" and "translator" skills, and experience with "big room" environments.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Whiting-Turner's approach to design and construction delivery?" (Research their project portfolio and their emphasis on alternative delivery methods.)

• "How do you contribute to a culture of innovation and continuous improvement in your team?" (Connect your experience to their values of innovation and customer delight.)

• "Describe a time you had to manage a difficult client relationship. How did you navigate it?" (Showcase your client management and communication skills.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Start with the "Why": Clearly state the project's objectives and your role.

• Detail the "How": Explain your specific actions, strategies, and the tools you used.

• Showcase the "What": Present the tangible outcomes and results, using data where possible.

• Emphasize Collaboration: Highlight your interactions with clients, design teams, and construction crews.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about specific technical aspects, decision rationale, and lessons learned.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of the design and construction lifecycle, strong leadership capabilities, and a client-centric, collaborative approach. Candidates should be ready to articulate their experience using specific examples and to discuss how their skills align with Whiting-Turner's values and project methodologies.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on jobs.silkroad.com.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight experience in design management, project management, construction administration, and proficiency with relevant software (Autodesk Suite, ProCore, Bluebeam). Quantify achievements wherever possible.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 key projects that best showcase your leadership, problem-solving skills, and ability to integrate design with construction. Be ready to present these in detail.

• Research Whiting-Turner: Familiarize yourself with their project history, company values, and approach to alternative project delivery methods. Understand their commitment to "design excellence" and "customer delight."

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare answers to common interview questions, focusing on behavioral examples that demonstrate your leadership, collaboration, and technical expertise.

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

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