Design Manager - Bridge and Structures

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager - Bridge and Structures

Company: Parsons Corporation

Location: Denver, CO, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Engineering & Design Operations (Critical Infrastructure/Mobility Solutions)

Date Posted: 2026-05-19T00:00:00

Experience Level: 20+ Years (Senior/Principal Level)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage the design and capture efforts for complex bridge and infrastructure projects, with a strong emphasis on Alternative Project Delivery (APD) and Design-Build (DB) methodologies.

• Drive the development and execution of win strategies for APD pursuits, coordinating multidisciplinary teams and Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) to solve intricate technical challenges.

• Serve as a key leader within the Mobility Solutions team, contributing to Parsons' reputation as a leader in infrastructure and critical infrastructure development.

• Foster a culture of innovation and technical excellence, supporting technology initiatives and knowledge sharing within the bridge engineering practice area.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a senior leader within the Mobility Solutions team, specifically focusing on the critical infrastructure and bridge engineering sector. The emphasis on "Capture Manager" and "Win Strategy" indicates a significant business development and client-facing component, alongside technical leadership. The requirement for 20+ years of experience and PE license solidifies its principal-level nature.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Capture Management & Business Development:

  • Serve as a dedicated Capture Manager for Alternative Project Delivery (APD) projects, developing and executing comprehensive win strategies.
  • Lead proposal development efforts, ensuring alignment with client requirements and Parsons' capabilities.
  • Actively participate in key industry conferences and professional organizations (e.g., ASBI, DBIA) to enhance Parsons' brand visibility and networking.

• Project Design & Technical Leadership:

  • Function as the Structures or Overall Design Manager for Design-Build (DB) projects, overseeing the technical aspects of bridge design.
  • Lead and coordinate the resolution of complex structural technical issues for ongoing pursuits and projects, leveraging internal SMEs.
  • Ensure that project deliverables meet schedule requirements and that quality management procedures are effectively implemented throughout the design lifecycle.

• Operational & Staffing Management:

  • Identify and define staffing plans for projects and pursuits, forecasting resource needs for bridge engineers.
  • Serve as a Hiring Manager for bridge engineering requisitions, actively identifying and recruiting strategic candidates to build the team.
  • Coordinate training needs and requests for staff to ensure continuous professional development and skill enhancement.

• Client & Stakeholder Engagement:

  • Act as the primary point of contact for various clients, managing client relationships and executing Client Management Plans.

  • Promote Parsons' brand and reputation within the bridge engineering practice through technical training and best-practice knowledge sharing.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on technical engineering leadership and business development/capture management. The role is expected to not only manage design execution but also actively contribute to winning new business, managing client relationships, and building the engineering team.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• A minimum of 20+ years of progressive, related work experience in bridge and structural engineering is mandatory.

• Extensive experience on complex bridge projects, demonstrating a deep understanding of design principles and challenges.

Required Skills:

• Professional Engineer (PE) License: Must be a Registered Professional Engineer.

• Bridge Engineering Expertise: Deep knowledge of bridge design, construction, and lifecycle management.

• Design-Build (DB) & APD Leadership: Demonstrated success in leading design efforts within Design-Build and Alternative Project Delivery frameworks.

• Capture Management & Proposal Development: Proven ability to develop and execute win strategies and lead complex proposal efforts.

• Project Management: Strong project management skills, with a focus on schedule adherence, quality assurance, and technical problem-solving.

• Client Management: Excellent client-facing skills and experience in managing key stakeholder relationships.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience engaging with multidisciplinary design teams on challenging, high-profile projects.

• Active involvement and leadership within professional associations such as the American Segmental Bridge Institute (ASBI) and Design-Build Institute of America (DBIA).

• Experience in identifying strategic candidates and leading recruiting efforts for specialized engineering roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize extensive senior-level experience and professional licensure. The preference for involvement in professional organizations like ASBI and DBIA suggests a desire for candidates who are not only technically proficient but also well-networked and respected within the bridge engineering community.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design-Build Project Case Studies: Detailed examples of complex bridge projects managed or significantly contributed to using Design-Build or APD methodologies. Showcase the candidate's role in strategy, technical oversight, and successful delivery.

• Capture Strategy Documentation: Evidence of developing and executing successful win strategies for infrastructure projects, including proposal highlights and client engagement plans.

• Technical Problem-Solving Examples: Demonstrations of how complex structural or design challenges were identified, analyzed, and resolved effectively, ideally with measurable outcomes.

• Team Leadership & Staffing Plans: Examples of how staffing needs were assessed and met for large-scale projects, including recruitment strategies for specialized engineering talent.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Ability to articulate and demonstrate the design process for large-scale bridge projects, highlighting improvements made for efficiency, quality, or constructability.

• Quality Management Implementation: Examples of how quality assurance and quality control procedures were established and implemented within design teams to ensure compliance and reduce risk.

• Risk Mitigation Strategies: Documentation of how technical, schedule, or client-related risks were identified and managed throughout the project lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role at this seniority, a portfolio is crucial. It should not only showcase completed projects but also the candidate's strategic thinking in winning work, managing complex technical challenges, and building/leading teams. The emphasis is on demonstrating a track record of successful APD/DB project acquisition and execution.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $176,900.00 - $332,400.00 per year

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans.

• Retirement Savings: Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) and 401(k) plan.

• Work-Life Balance: Paid Time Off (PTO), Flexible Work Schedules, and Paid Holidays.

• Financial Security: Life Insurance.

Working Hours: Typically 40 hours per week, with potential for extended hours based on project demands and pursuit timelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is substantial, reflecting the senior level, extensive experience, and critical nature of this role in securing and delivering high-value infrastructure projects. The benefits package is robust, emphasizing employee ownership (ESOP) and a commitment to work-life balance through flexible schedules and PTO.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Critical Infrastructure, Mobility Solutions, Engineering, Construction, Consulting. Parsons is a global leader in providing innovative solutions in defense, intelligence, and cyber, as well as critical infrastructure like transportation and environmental services.

Company Size: Large (Likely 5,000+ employees based on typical industry benchmarks for global engineering firms). This size offers significant resources, cross-functional opportunities, and a broad client base.

Founded: Over 80 years ago, indicating a long-standing reputation and deep expertise in the engineering and infrastructure sectors.

Team Structure:

• Mobility Solutions Team: This role is part of the Mobility Solutions group, focusing on transportation infrastructure.

• Critical Infrastructure Focus: The position is explicitly stated as part of the Critical Infrastructure team, underscoring its importance to national and community development.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: The role requires close collaboration with SMEs across Parsons, client representatives, and potentially joint venture partners on APD/DB projects.

Methodology:

• Design-Build & APD Expertise: Parsons leads in Alternative Project Delivery (APD) methods, emphasizing integrated project delivery for efficiency and innovation.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: While not explicitly stated for this role, Parsons' industry position suggests a reliance on data analytics for project planning, risk assessment, and performance monitoring.

• Innovation & Technology Integration: The company culture fosters innovation, encouraging the adoption of new technologies and best practices in engineering design and project management.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Parsons' long history and global presence suggest a stable, well-resourced organization with a strong reputation. The emphasis on Critical Infrastructure and Mobility Solutions indicates a strategic focus on areas vital to societal development, offering significant project impact.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Principal/Senior Principal Engineer & Manager. This role represents a peak in technical and managerial career progression within bridge engineering, combining deep technical expertise with significant business development and leadership responsibilities.

Reporting Structure: Likely reports to a senior executive within the Mobility Solutions or Critical Infrastructure division, such as a VP of Operations, Director of Engineering, or a senior Program Director. The role will, in turn, manage and mentor bridge engineers.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct and substantial impact on revenue generation through successful capture management and project acquisition, as well as on project profitability and successful delivery through effective design oversight and team leadership.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Expansion: Potential to lead larger, more complex APD programs or expand into broader regional or national leadership roles within Mobility Solutions.

• Strategic Business Development: Opportunity to shape Parsons' strategy in the bridge and infrastructure market, influencing future pursuits and investments.

• Mentorship & Talent Development: Play a key role in identifying, recruiting, and developing future leaders and technical experts within the bridge engineering practice.

• Industry Influence: Continued opportunities to contribute to industry standards and best practices through professional organizations and thought leadership.

📝 Enhancement Note: This is not just a technical management role; it's a strategic business development and leadership position. Growth opportunities are geared towards executive-level influence and expanding the scope of responsibility within a major infrastructure firm.

🌐 Work Environment

🏢 Office Type

• On-site Role: The position is designated as on-site, requiring the candidate to work from the Denver, CO office.

• Collaborative Workspace: Parsons offices are typically designed to foster collaboration, with open-plan areas, meeting rooms, and dedicated spaces for project teams.

🏢 Office Location(s)

• Denver, CO: The primary work location is the Denver office at 999 18th St. This location offers access to a significant transportation infrastructure market in the Rocky Mountain region.

Workspace Context:

• Project Team Integration: Will work closely with project managers, design engineers, CAD technicians, and other specialists within the Mobility Solutions team.

• Access to Resources: Expected to have access to state-of-the-art design software, engineering databases, and internal technical support from subject matter experts across Parsons.

• Client Interaction: Will likely have opportunities to interact with clients at their offices, project sites, or through dedicated client meeting spaces within the Parsons office.

Work Schedule: While a standard 40-hour work week is typical, the demands of capture management and project deadlines may require flexible and extended working hours. The emphasis on "Flexible Work Schedules" in the benefits suggests a company that supports work-life balance where operational needs allow.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement in Denver suggests a need for local presence for hands-on leadership, client meetings, and team collaboration. The environment is expected to be dynamic, reflecting the fast-paced nature of design-build pursuits and project execution.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or recruiter review of application and resume for basic qualifications.

• Hiring Manager/Team Interview: Discussion focused on technical experience, project leadership, and alignment with the role's core responsibilities. Expect detailed questions on past APD/DB projects.

• Capture Management/Business Development Interview: Assessment of strategic thinking, proposal leadership experience, client management skills, and ability to develop win strategies.

• Senior Leadership/Panel Interview: A comprehensive review covering leadership philosophy, cultural fit, and strategic vision for the bridge engineering practice. May include a presentation of portfolio highlights.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Achievements: For each project, clearly articulate your specific role, the project's complexity, the challenges faced, and the quantifiable outcomes (e.g., successful bid, schedule adherence, cost savings, client satisfaction).

• Showcase APD/DB Expertise: Highlight your contributions to the capture phase (strategy, proposal) and the design management phase of Design-Build projects. Emphasize how you facilitated collaboration between design and construction teams.

• Demonstrate Leadership: Use examples to illustrate your ability to lead multidisciplinary teams, mentor engineers, and manage resources effectively.

• Tailor to Parsons: Research Parsons' recent projects and strategic priorities in Mobility Solutions and Critical Infrastructure. Frame your experience and portfolio examples to show how you align with their goals and existing capabilities.

• Prepare for Technical Deep-Dives: Be ready to discuss specific technical challenges related to bridge design and how you approached them.

Challenge Preparation:

• Case Study Presentation: You may be asked to present a case study from your portfolio, focusing on a complex bridge project, a successful capture effort, or a significant technical challenge you overcame. Structure this presentation logically: problem, your approach, solution, and results.

• Strategic Questioning: Prepare to answer questions about how you would approach winning a specific type of APD project, how you would build a high-performing design team, or how you would manage client expectations on a challenging project.

• Industry Trends: Be prepared to discuss current trends in bridge engineering, APD, and relevant technologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely be rigorous, given the seniority and scope of the role. Candidates should be prepared to articulate not only their technical expertise but also their strategic acumen in business development and leadership. A well-prepared portfolio is essential for demonstrating past success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency with industry-standard CAD platforms such as AutoCAD, MicroStation, and potentially 3D modeling software like Revit Structure or Civil 3D.

• Structural Analysis Software: Expertise in advanced structural analysis and design software relevant to bridge engineering (e.g., STAAD.Pro, SAP2000, CSiBridge, MIDAS Civil, LUSAS Bridge).

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with project management tools for scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking (e.g., Microsoft Project, Primavera P6).

• BIM/3D Modeling Tools: Increasingly important for integrated design processes, familiarity with BIM platforms and collaborative workflows.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret project performance data, cost reports, and schedule variances. Familiarity with Excel for data manipulation and reporting.

• Reporting Dashboards: Experience with creating and interpreting project status reports and performance dashboards.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: While not a primary tool for design, understanding how CRM systems are used for client management and business development tracking can be beneficial.

• Collaboration Platforms: Proficiency with collaboration tools like Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, or similar platforms for team communication, document sharing, and workflow management.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job description doesn't specify exact software, a Design Manager in bridge engineering would be expected to be highly proficient in leading teams that utilize advanced CAD, BIM, and structural analysis software. Familiarity with project management and collaboration tools is also key.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity & Excellence: A commitment to ethical conduct, delivering high-quality engineering solutions, and upholding professional standards.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering an environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and cross-functional teams work together effectively to achieve common goals.

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: Encouraging creative problem-solving, embracing new technologies, and constantly seeking ways to optimize processes and designs.

• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and meeting client needs, building strong relationships, and delivering exceptional value.

• Safety & Sustainability: Prioritizing the safety of personnel and the public, and incorporating sustainable design principles into projects.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The role demands seamless collaboration between design disciplines, construction teams, client representatives, and project management.

• Proactive Communication: Emphasis on clear, timely, and transparent communication to ensure alignment, manage expectations, and resolve issues efficiently.

• Mentorship & Knowledge Sharing: A culture where experienced professionals mentor junior staff, and knowledge is actively shared across teams to elevate collective expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: Parsons' emphasis on "valuing people, embracing agility, and fostering growth" suggests a culture that supports professional development and collaborative work. The critical infrastructure focus implies a strong sense of purpose and responsibility.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complex Technical Demands: Managing the design of highly complex and large-scale bridge structures, often under tight deadlines and demanding site conditions.

• Design-Build Integration: Successfully bridging the gap between design intent and construction realities within the fast-paced APD/DB environment.

• Client Relationship Management: Navigating diverse client expectations and ensuring satisfaction throughout the project lifecycle.

• Talent Acquisition & Retention: Identifying and attracting top-tier bridge engineering talent in a competitive market.

• Market Dynamics: Adapting to evolving industry standards, regulatory changes, and technological advancements in bridge engineering.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Access to specialized training on new bridge design techniques, software, and materials.

• Leadership & Management Development: Opportunities to enhance skills in strategic planning, financial management, and team leadership.

• Industry Engagement: Continued involvement in professional organizations, conferences, and committees to stay at the forefront of the industry.

• Exposure to Diverse Projects: Working on a wide range of high-profile infrastructure projects across North America and globally.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges that are directly tied to substantial growth opportunities. Overcoming these challenges will be key to advancing within Parsons and the broader infrastructure sector.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to developing a win strategy for a large Design-Build bridge project. What are the key elements you focus on?"

• "How do you ensure seamless collaboration between design and construction teams in an APD/DB environment to mitigate risks and optimize outcomes?"

• "Walk us through a time you had to resolve a significant technical challenge on a complex bridge project. What was the issue, your approach, and the result?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Parsons' capabilities in Mobility Solutions and Critical Infrastructure? How do you see yourself contributing to our strategic goals?"

• "How do you foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement within an engineering team?"

• "Describe your leadership style and how you motivate and mentor engineering professionals."

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your presentation logically: Introduction to the project/pursuit, the challenge/objective, your specific role and strategy, the solution/execution, and the quantifiable results/impact.

• Highlight APD/DB Wins: Clearly showcase your contributions to successful captures and the management of Design-Build projects. Use specific examples of how you added value.

• Visuals: Use high-quality images, diagrams, and charts to illustrate complex designs, project timelines, and key performance metrics.

• Conciseness: Be prepared to present your key achievements within a set timeframe, focusing on the most impactful aspects of your experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to demonstrate not only technical prowess but also strategic thinking, leadership capabilities, and a deep understanding of the APD/DB project lifecycle. Experience in business development and client management will be heavily scrutinized.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided Workday link.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your 20+ years of experience, PE license, and specific achievements in bridge engineering, Design-Build, Alternative Project Delivery, Capture Management, and Project/Design Management. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a selection of your most impactful projects demonstrating your expertise in complex bridge designs, successful APD/DB captures, and leadership. Be ready to discuss these in detail.

• Research Parsons: Familiarize yourself with Parsons' recent infrastructure projects, their Mobility Solutions division, and their company values to articulate your alignment.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare for behavioral and situational questions, focusing on your leadership, problem-solving, and strategic business development capabilities.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions based on the provided data. All details, particularly regarding specific responsibilities, team dynamics, and precise technical requirements, should be verified directly with the hiring organization during the interview process. The salary range is an estimate and should be confirmed.