Design Manager - Aviation

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager - Aviation

Company: STV

Location: Los Angeles, California, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Operations Management / Project Management (Aviation Infrastructure)

Date Posted: May 29, 2026

Experience Level: 7+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversee the planning and design phases of large-scale airport infrastructure projects, ensuring efficient execution from inception through to construction handover.

• Lead preconstruction efforts, encompassing budgeting, scheduling, risk assessment, and stakeholder coordination to align project objectives with regulatory requirements and industry best practices.

• Drive value engineering and constructability reviews to optimize design, materials, and cost-effectiveness for complex aviation projects.

• Ensure strict adherence to environmental, safety, and zoning regulations, leveraging strong knowledge of FAA guidelines and public sector aviation standards.

• Facilitate seamless transition from preconstruction to construction by managing subcontractor selection, vendor coordination, and detailed timeline development.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is critically positioned at the intersection of design, engineering, and construction management within the highly specialized aviation infrastructure sector. The "Design Manager" title, coupled with responsibilities like budgeting, scheduling, and risk assessment for airport projects, strongly indicates a focus on the preconstruction and planning phases, aligning it with operational excellence in project delivery. The emphasis on FAA guidelines and stakeholder coordination further solidifies its operational significance.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all aspects of the design and preconstruction phases for significant airport construction projects, including the development of detailed estimates, schedules, and procurement strategies.

• Develop, monitor, and manage preconstruction budgets, ensuring rigorous cost control through detailed estimates and comprehensive value engineering assessments.

• Foster collaborative relationships with architects, engineers, general contractors, subcontractors, airport authorities, and other key stakeholders to ensure alignment and compliance with project objectives and regulatory mandates.

• Conduct thorough feasibility studies, risk assessments, and constructability reviews to proactively identify potential challenges, mitigation strategies, and opportunities for design optimization.

• Prepare and maintain detailed project schedules for the preconstruction phase, clearly defining critical milestones, dependencies, and timelines to ensure timely project progression.

• Oversee the selection and management of subcontractors and vendors, ensuring their alignment with project goals, quality standards, and budgetary constraints.

• Ensure strict compliance with all relevant environmental, safety, and zoning regulations, including FAA guidelines, throughout the preconstruction lifecycle.

• Provide strategic input and recommendations on design optimization, innovative material selection, and the implementation of sustainable construction practices to enhance project lifecycle value and performance.

• Facilitate clear and consistent communication and coordination with government agencies, airport stakeholders, and internal project teams to manage expectations and align diverse requirements.

• Support a smooth and efficient transition from the preconstruction phase to the active construction phase, ensuring a comprehensive and well-documented handoff to project execution teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities highlight a strategic operational focus on the front-end of large-scale construction projects. The emphasis on "leading design and preconstruction efforts," "developing and managing preconstruction budgets, cost estimates, and value engineering," and "preparing detailed project schedules" points to a demanding role requiring robust project planning, financial oversight, and risk management capabilities. The explicit mention of "support the transition from preconstruction to construction" underscores a critical operational handoff responsibility.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture, or a closely related field.

Experience:

• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in preconstruction, estimating, or project management specifically within large-scale airport or aviation infrastructure projects.

Required Skills:

• Design Management: Ability to lead and coordinate design activities from conceptualization through to detailed construction documentation.

• Preconstruction Planning: Expertise in developing comprehensive preconstruction strategies, including scope definition, estimating, scheduling, and risk identification.

• Budgeting & Cost Control: Proficient in developing, managing, and forecasting project budgets, with a strong understanding of cost estimating principles and value engineering methodologies.

• Project Scheduling: Skill in creating, analyzing, and managing detailed project schedules using tools like Primavera P6, ensuring alignment with project milestones and dependencies.

• Risk Assessment & Mitigation: Proven ability to identify, assess, and develop mitigation strategies for project-specific risks associated with design, construction, and regulatory compliance.

• Stakeholder Coordination: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to effectively liaise with architects, engineers, contractors, regulatory bodies, and airport authorities.

• FAA Guidelines & Aviation Regulations: Strong knowledge of Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) guidelines, airport operational requirements, and aviation construction best practices.

• Constructability Reviews: Ability to conduct thorough reviews to ensure designs are practical, efficient, and cost-effective to build.

• Construction Management Software Proficiency: Demonstrated experience with industry-standard software such as Procore, Bluebeam, and Primavera P6.

• Leadership & Negotiation: Strong leadership capabilities to guide teams and effective negotiation skills for managing contracts and stakeholder agreements.

Preferred Skills:

• Architectural Licensure.

• Professional certifications such as PMP (Project Management Professional).

• LEED accreditation, demonstrating expertise in sustainable building practices.

• Experience working directly with public sector airport authorities or in aviation-related infrastructure development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements clearly define a senior-level operational role focused on the strategic planning and execution of airport design. The emphasis on specific software (Procore, Bluebeam, Primavera P6) and regulatory knowledge (FAA guidelines) indicates a need for hands-on technical proficiency in addition to management skills. The preference for architectural licensure and PMP/LEED certifications suggests a desire for candidates with deep technical expertise and a commitment to professional development within the aviation construction domain.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Case Studies: A curated selection of past airport or large-scale infrastructure projects showcasing your direct involvement in the design and preconstruction phases. Each case study should highlight your specific role, responsibilities, and contributions.

• Budget Management Examples: Demonstrations of your ability to develop, manage, and control preconstruction budgets, including examples of cost estimates, value engineering proposals, and variance analysis.

• Schedule Development & Management: Evidence of creating and managing complex project schedules, illustrating your understanding of critical path analysis, milestone tracking, and schedule optimization techniques.

• Risk Mitigation Plans: Examples of risk assessment reports and implemented mitigation strategies developed for aviation projects, showcasing your proactive approach to problem-solving.

• Stakeholder Communication Artifacts: Samples of communication plans, progress reports, or meeting minutes that demonstrate effective engagement with diverse project stakeholders.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Showcase your experience in designing and refining preconstruction workflows, from initial scope definition and design review to procurement and construction handoff.

• Implementation & Automation: Provide examples of how you've implemented new processes or leveraged technology (e.g., construction management software) to enhance efficiency and accuracy in preconstruction operations.

• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Demonstrate your approach to measuring the effectiveness of preconstruction processes, including key performance indicators (KPIs) used and how data was leveraged for continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role of this caliber in aviation infrastructure, a portfolio demonstrating a structured approach to complex project planning and execution is crucial. The emphasis on specific deliverables like budget management examples, schedule development, and risk mitigation plans reflects the operational rigor expected. Documenting process optimization and performance analysis will be key to showcasing an understanding of continuous improvement within the high-stakes aviation environment.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $114,345.69 - $130,680.78 USD per year.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range of $114,345.69 - $130,680.78 USD for Los Angeles, California, aligns with industry benchmarks for experienced Design Managers in specialized fields like aviation infrastructure. Los Angeles is a high cost of living area, and the salary reflects the significant experience (7+ years) and specialized knowledge required for airport projects, including understanding of FAA regulations and proficiency in project management software. The range is competitive for this senior operational role.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Includes medical insurance with an option for a Health Savings Account (HSA), dental insurance, and vision insurance.

• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs): Options for Healthcare, Dependent Care, and Transit/Parking FSAs where applicable, offering pre-tax savings.

• Income Protection: Disability insurance and Life Insurance, including Accidental Death & Dismemberment coverage.

• Retirement Savings: A 401(k) Plan with Retirement Counseling services available.

• Employee Support: Employee Assistance Program (EAP) providing confidential support services.

• Work-Life Balance: Generous Paid Time Off (starting at 16 days per year), 9 Paid Holidays, and Parental Leave (up to 80 hours).

• Family Support: Back-Up Dependent Care assistance (up to 10 days per year).

• Professional Development: Commitment to employee growth through a Continuing Education Program, support for Professional Licensure, and Society Memberships.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time work schedule, typically 40 hours per week, with the expectation of on-site presence.

📝 Enhancement Note: The benefits package is robust, offering strong support for employee well-being, financial security, and professional development. The inclusion of continuing education, licensure support, and back-up dependent care are particularly valuable for senior operational roles and demonstrate STV's commitment to employee retention and growth. The Paid Time Off and Parental Leave policies also support a healthy work-life balance, a key consideration for demanding project management roles.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering, Construction, and Architecture Services, with a significant focus on Aviation Infrastructure. STV operates within a sector critical to national transportation and development.

Company Size: STV is a large organization, likely employing over 1,000 individuals, indicating a structured corporate environment with established processes and a broad range of specialized teams. This size offers stability and opportunities for diverse project involvement.

Founded: Founded in 1912, STV has a long-standing history and deep expertise in delivering complex engineering and architectural solutions across various markets, including aviation, transportation, and infrastructure. This legacy suggests a culture that values experience, technical excellence, and long-term client relationships.

Team Structure:

• Aviation National Team: This role is part of a specialized, national aviation team, implying a high degree of expertise and collaboration among professionals focused on airport projects across the country.

• Project-Based Collaboration: The team structure likely involves cross-functional project teams comprising engineers, architects, planners, and construction managers, with the Design Manager acting as a central point of coordination for design and preconstruction phases.

• Reporting Hierarchy: The Design Manager will likely report to a senior leader within the Aviation division, such as a Director of Aviation or a Vice President, with direct oversight of project-specific design consultants and internal project staff.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: STV likely employs data analysis for project planning, risk assessment, and performance monitoring, leveraging insights from past projects and industry benchmarks.

• Collaborative Workflow Planning: The company's approach to operations involves close collaboration between design, engineering, and construction disciplines, with a focus on integrated project delivery and early stakeholder engagement.

• Technology Integration: Expect the use of advanced project management, BIM (Building Information Modeling), and design software to facilitate efficient planning, communication, and documentation throughout project lifecycles.

Company Website: stv.tv

📝 Enhancement Note: STV's long history and size suggest a mature organization with well-defined operational processes and a strong emphasis on technical proficiency. The specialization in aviation infrastructure means the team operates within a highly regulated and complex environment, requiring meticulous planning and execution. The collaborative, data-driven approach is essential for managing large-scale projects effectively.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position is at a senior management level, focusing on the critical preconstruction and design oversight for major aviation infrastructure projects. It requires significant technical expertise, leadership, and strategic planning capabilities within a specialized industry.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will report to a senior executive within STV's Aviation division, likely a Director or Vice President. They will oversee external design consultants and potentially internal project coordinators, playing a pivotal role in the project lifecycle.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's work directly influences the success of large-scale airport development projects, impacting project timelines, budgets, safety, and long-term operational efficiency. Their ability to optimize designs and manage preconstruction processes is fundamental to mitigating risks and achieving client objectives.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to advance into higher leadership roles within the Aviation division, such as Director of Aviation Projects, VP of Aviation, or Program Manager for major airport initiatives.

• Specialization Deepening: Opportunities to further specialize in specific areas of aviation infrastructure, such as terminal design, airside operations, or sustainable airport development, by taking on increasingly complex projects and leadership roles.

• Cross-Disciplinary Experience: Potential to gain broader experience by moving into related operational roles within STV's other infrastructure sectors, leveraging transferable project management and leadership skills.

• Mentorship & Training: Access to STV's Continuing Education Program, professional licensure support, and opportunities to mentor junior staff, fostering continuous learning and skill development.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear pathway for career progression within the specialized field of aviation infrastructure management. The combination of technical depth, project leadership, and STV's commitment to professional development provides a strong foundation for long-term career growth, either vertically within aviation or horizontally into broader infrastructure leadership roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an onsite role, requiring the Design Manager to be physically present at the client's location in Los Angeles, California. This suggests a dynamic, project-driven environment, potentially within a client's project office or an active airport development site.

Office Location(s): The primary work location is on South Flower Street in Los Angeles, California. This central urban location offers access to a major metropolitan hub.

Workspace Context:

• Project Office Setting: The workspace is likely a dedicated project office, potentially shared with other project team members, consultants, and client representatives. This fosters direct, in-person collaboration.

• Access to Tools & Technology: Expect access to standard office technology, project management software (Procore, Primavera P6), design collaboration tools, and potentially site-specific equipment or facilities required for airport projects.

• Collaborative & Fast-Paced: The environment will be collaborative, with frequent interaction with diverse teams, and fast-paced, driven by project deadlines and the complex nature of airport development.

Work Schedule:

• A standard 40-hour work week is expected, with the possibility of extended hours or weekend work during critical project phases or to meet specific deadlines, common in large-scale construction project management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "onsite" requirement at a client location in Los Angeles emphasizes a hands-on, highly collaborative, and potentially demanding work environment. This setup is typical for major infrastructure projects where immediate presence and direct stakeholder interaction are critical for operational success and rapid decision-making.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess alignment with the minimum qualifications and experience requirements.

• Technical Interview(s): In-depth discussions with hiring managers and senior aviation/operations leaders to evaluate your technical knowledge, preconstruction expertise, understanding of FAA regulations, and project management methodologies. Expect questions on budgeting, scheduling, risk management, and value engineering.

• Portfolio Presentation: A key stage where you will present selected case studies from your portfolio, detailing your role, strategies, challenges overcome, and quantifiable results achieved in past aviation design and preconstruction projects.

• Behavioral & Cultural Fit Interview: Assessment of your leadership style, collaboration skills, problem-solving approach, and alignment with STV's company values and the team's operational culture.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior executive to discuss strategic alignment and confirm suitability for the role.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Aviation Specifics: Highlight projects directly related to airport design, expansion, or infrastructure. Emphasize your understanding of airport operational needs and FAA compliance.

• Quantify Achievements: For each case study, clearly articulate the scale of the project, budget managed, schedule adherence, cost savings achieved through value engineering, and risks successfully mitigated. Use numbers and data to demonstrate impact.

• Showcase Process Improvement: Include examples of how you've improved preconstruction processes, implemented new technologies, or streamlined workflows to enhance efficiency and project outcomes.

• Demonstrate Stakeholder Management: Present examples of how you've effectively managed communication and relationships with diverse stakeholders, including government agencies, clients, and consultants.

• Prepare for Technical Deep Dives: Be ready to discuss the specifics of your experience with tools like Procore, Primavera P6, and cost estimating software, as well as your approach to constructability reviews and risk assessments.

Challenge Preparation:

• Case Study Analysis: Be prepared to discuss a hypothetical airport project scenario, outlining your approach to preconstruction planning, risk identification, budgeting, and stakeholder engagement.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Anticipate questions about how you would handle common challenges in airport design and preconstruction, such as scope creep, unforeseen site conditions, or regulatory hurdles.

• Process Optimization Discussion: Be ready to articulate your thought process for optimizing project workflows and improving operational efficiency in a complex project environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to thoroughly assess both technical expertise and operational leadership capabilities. The emphasis on portfolio presentation and case study analysis signifies that demonstrating practical application of skills and quantifiable results is paramount. Preparing to articulate specific strategies for managing complex aviation projects and the associated risks will be critical.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Construction Management Software: Proficiency in platforms like Procore for project documentation, collaboration, and field management is highly expected.

• Design & Collaboration Tools: Experience with Bluebeam for PDF markup, collaboration, and takeoff is essential.

• Scheduling Software: Advanced knowledge of Primavera P6 for complex project scheduling, critical path analysis, and resource management is a key requirement.

• Cost Estimating Software: Familiarity with industry-standard cost estimating tools and databases for developing accurate preconstruction budgets.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Project Reporting Tools: Ability to generate detailed project reports using integrated features within Procore or other project management systems to track progress, budget adherence, and key performance indicators.

• Data Analysis for Decision Making: Skills in analyzing project data to inform decisions on design optimization, risk mitigation, and resource allocation.

CRM & Automation:

• Internal STV Systems: While not explicitly listed, expect to interact with internal STV systems for project tracking, financial management, and team communication.

• Workflow Automation: Understanding of how to leverage technology to automate repetitive tasks within the preconstruction process, improving efficiency and reducing manual errors.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of Procore, Bluebeam, and Primavera P6 indicates a significant reliance on these tools for operational efficiency and project execution. Candidates must demonstrate not only familiarity but also proficiency in leveraging these platforms for planning, collaboration, and data management within the aviation construction context.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Technical Excellence: A commitment to delivering high-quality, technically sound designs and preconstruction plans, grounded in deep engineering and construction principles.

• Integrity & Compliance: Upholding the highest ethical standards and ensuring strict adherence to all regulatory requirements, particularly FAA guidelines, safety standards, and environmental regulations.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a cooperative environment where diverse specialists (architects, engineers, planners, construction managers) work together seamlessly to achieve project goals.

• Innovation & Efficiency: Continuously seeking opportunities to optimize designs, improve preconstruction processes, and leverage technology for greater project efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and meeting client needs, delivering successful projects that align with their strategic objectives and operational requirements.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expect a highly integrated approach where the Design Manager works closely with architects, engineers, environmental specialists, safety officers, and client representatives from the outset of a project.

• Proactive Communication: A culture of open, frequent, and transparent communication is vital, ensuring all stakeholders are informed of project status, potential issues, and decisions.

• Constructive Feedback: An environment where constructive feedback is welcomed and utilized for process improvement and design refinement, fostering a learning culture.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouragement of sharing best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise across project teams and within the broader STV organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on technical excellence, integrity, and client focus aligns with the demands of the aviation industry. A collaborative and communicative style is essential for managing the complex web of stakeholders involved in airport development. The company likely values a proactive, problem-solving approach driven by data and a commitment to continuous improvement.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complexity of Aviation Projects: Navigating the intricate technical requirements, stringent safety protocols, and extensive regulatory landscape (e.g., FAA, TSA) inherent in airport infrastructure development.

• Stakeholder Management: Balancing the diverse and sometimes competing interests of multiple stakeholders, including government agencies, airline operators, airport authorities, airlines, and the public.

• Budget and Schedule Pressures: Managing significant project budgets and tight schedules in a highly competitive and often unpredictable construction environment, requiring constant vigilance and proactive risk management.

• Technological Adaptation: Staying abreast of and integrating new design, modeling, and project management technologies to enhance efficiency and project outcomes in a rapidly evolving industry.

• Ensuring Sustainability: Incorporating sustainable design and construction practices into large-scale projects to meet environmental goals and regulatory mandates.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Project Management Training: Access to STV's Continuing Education Program for advanced certifications and skill development in project management, construction, and leadership.

• Industry Conferences & Workshops: Opportunities to attend aviation and construction industry events to stay current with trends, regulations, and best practices.

• Mentorship Programs: Formal or informal mentorship opportunities with senior leaders within STV's aviation division to gain insights into strategic planning and leadership.

• Professional Licensure Support: STV supports employees in obtaining and maintaining professional licenses and accreditations relevant to their roles.

• Cross-Sector Exposure: Potential to gain exposure to other large-scale infrastructure projects within STV's portfolio, broadening operational experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges inherent in this role are significant, stemming from the scale, complexity, and regulatory environment of aviation construction. However, STV's commitment to professional development, coupled with the inherent learning opportunities within such high-impact projects, provides substantial avenues for career growth and skill enhancement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Operational Strategy: "Describe your approach to developing a preconstruction strategy for a major airport terminal expansion. What key elements would you prioritize, and how would you ensure alignment with FAA regulations and operational needs?"

  • Preparation: Focus on a structured approach, detailing steps from scope definition to procurement. Emphasize risk assessment, stakeholder engagement, and regulatory compliance integration.

• Process Optimization: "How have you used value engineering or constructability reviews to significantly reduce costs or improve the buildability of an airport project? Provide a specific example."

  • Preparation: Select a strong case study from your portfolio. Clearly articulate the problem, your proposed solution, the implementation process, and the quantifiable benefits (cost savings, schedule improvements, risk reduction).

• Stakeholder Management: "Imagine you are managing design for a new runway project, and there are conflicting requirements between the airport authority, environmental agencies, and airline operators. How would you navigate these differences to achieve project consensus?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• STV's Role: "What do you see as STV's key strengths in the aviation infrastructure market, and how do you envision your role contributing to those strengths?"

  • Preparation: Research STV's recent projects, company values, and market position in aviation. Connect your experience and skills to their stated mission and capabilities.

• Team Dynamics: "Describe your ideal collaborative environment when working on a large-scale design and preconstruction project. How do you foster effective teamwork among diverse disciplines?"

  • Preparation: Emphasize open communication, clear roles and responsibilities, proactive problem-solving, and a results-oriented approach.

• Impact Measurement: "How do you measure the success of the preconstruction phase of a project? What KPIs are most important to you and why?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each case study, follow a clear story arc: Project Overview -> Your Role & Responsibilities -> Challenges Faced -> Your Solutions & Actions -> Results & Impact (quantified).

• Highlight Operations: Emphasize your operational contributions – how you managed processes, optimized workflows, controlled costs, and ensured efficient planning.

• Visual Aids: Use concise slides with key data points, timelines, and simplified diagrams. Avoid overly dense text.

• Focus on Relevance: Select portfolio examples that most closely align with the requirements of the Design Manager - Aviation role, showcasing your experience with airport projects and specific tools/regulations.

• Be Prepared for Q&A: Anticipate detailed questions about your technical decisions, problem-solving approaches, and the specifics of your project management methodologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview preparation focuses on demonstrating strategic thinking, operational execution, and the ability to navigate complex challenges specific to the aviation infrastructure sector. Candidates should be ready to articulate their experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) and quantify their achievements whenever possible, especially concerning budget, schedule, and risk management.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided Workday link on the STV careers portal.

• Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume to highlight your 7+ years of experience in airport preconstruction, design management, budgeting, scheduling, and risk assessment. Explicitly mention your familiarity with FAA guidelines, Procore, Bluebeam, and Primavera P6.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a selection of 2-3 key aviation infrastructure projects that best showcase your capabilities in design management, preconstruction planning, cost control, and stakeholder coordination. Be ready to present these in detail, focusing on quantifiable achievements and operational impact.

• Research STV and the Aviation Sector: Familiarize yourself with STV's recent aviation projects, company values, and the current landscape of airport development in Los Angeles. Understand the challenges and opportunities within the aviation infrastructure industry.

• Practice Your Interview Responses: Prepare to articulate your experience using specific examples, especially in response to strategy, process optimization, and stakeholder management questions. 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 the hiring organization before making application decisions.