Design Manager- Energy at Interstates

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager - Energy

Company: Interstates

Location: Sioux Falls, SD

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Engineering & Design Operations

Date Posted: 2026-06-05

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: Remote OK

🚀 Role Summary

Lead and mentor design teams through the full project lifecycle, from pursuit to commissioning, with a strong emphasis on electrical power and distribution systems.
Serve as the primary technical liaison for clients and owners, advocating for their requirements and ensuring the delivery of constructable, code-compliant, and budget-conscious design packages.
Drive technical decision-making and quality assurance for design scope, particularly within medium-voltage applications and industrial facility power systems.
Collaborate closely with Project Managers to define project goals, manage schedules, identify risks, and communicate progress effectively across multiple projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is critical for bridging the gap between client needs and practical, constructable engineering solutions within the energy sector. The emphasis on "power and distribution systems," "medium-voltage applications," and "industrial facilities" indicates a focus on complex, high-stakes electrical infrastructure projects. The requirement for client-facing responsibilities and technical leadership positions this as a key operational and client management role within the design department.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

Spearhead client and owner relationships through presentations, technical discussions, and proactive design input during project pursuits and throughout the project lifecycle.
Develop concept designs, define clear design scopes, and contribute to proposal development and estimating efforts based on thorough review of project information.
Act as the primary point of contact for clients and owners regarding design parameters, addressing technical queries and facilitating problem-solving to ensure project success.
Cultivate and maintain strong client relationships through consistent communication and engagement, both during and between active projects.
Partner with Project Managers to establish project goals, develop realistic schedules, proactively manage issues, and report on progress for multiple concurrent projects.
Lead and orchestrate the design team to produce constructable, code-compliant, and cost-effective design packages that align with project budgets.
Provide robust technical leadership, mentor junior design staff, conduct thorough design reviews, and identify any resource or skill gaps within the team.
Uphold the quality of all design deliverables through rigorous internal reviews, audits, and strict adherence to client expectations and company standards.
Support Construction Administration activities and maintain continuity of client relationships during the construction phase and beyond.
Generate detailed construction drawings and specifications for electrical installation, interconnection, control, and power distribution systems, with a focus on medium-voltage applications as required.
Apply in-depth knowledge of installation, startup, and commissioning procedures for medium-voltage systems and equipment, including the integration of microprocessor-based relays.
Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of electrical terminology, components, symbols, and adherence to the National Electric Code (NEC) and relevant UL requirements.
Coordinate effectively with Engineers, Estimators, Superintendents, CAD Operators, and other trade partners to communicate project details and resolve interdisciplinary issues.
Monitor project performance against established metrics, identify and communicate deviations and risks, and escalate concerns to appropriate stakeholders as needed.
Leverage sound judgment, meticulous attention to detail, and effective prioritization skills to successfully manage competing deadlines and project demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical expertise, project management, and client relations. The emphasis on "constructable design packages," "code-compliant," and "budget-conscious" indicates a need for practical, results-oriented design execution. The mention of "medium-voltage applications" and "microprocessor-based relays" points to specialized technical knowledge required for this role within the energy sector.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Electrical Engineering Technology, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.

Experience: A minimum of four years of direct client/owner experience on design projects, with a strong emphasis on electrical design disciplines and a working knowledge of industrial, power, and utility systems. Preference given to candidates with experience in power generation, relaying, and/or engineering.

Required Skills:

Expertise in electrical design principles and application, particularly in power distribution systems.
Proven ability to lead and manage design teams and projects from inception to completion.
Strong understanding of constructability and the ability to translate design concepts into practical construction documents.
In-depth knowledge of the National Electric Code (NEC) and UL requirements for electrical installations.
Experience with medium-voltage applications, including installation, startup, and commissioning of related equipment.
Excellent client relationship management and communication skills, with a track record of successful owner engagement.
Proficiency in technical problem-solving and decision-making within complex engineering projects.
Ability to coordinate effectively with cross-functional teams, including project managers, estimators, and trades.
Familiarity with electrical terminology, components, and symbols. Preferred Skills:
Experience in power generation facilities or utility infrastructure projects.
Knowledge of microprocessor-based relays and their application in power systems.
Familiarity with CAD software and its role in design package development.
Experience with construction administration and support during the build phase.
Understanding of project pursuit and proposal development processes.
Ability to mentor and develop junior design engineers and technicians.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a balance of technical depth in electrical power systems and practical project management experience. The preference for "power generation, relaying, and/or engineering" suggests that candidates with specialized experience in these niche areas will be highly competitive. The requirement for client-facing experience underscores the operational aspect of managing client expectations and technical consultations.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

Demonstrations of successfully managed electrical design projects, showcasing end-to-end project lifecycle involvement from concept to commissioning.
Case studies highlighting the development of constructable design packages, with a clear emphasis on power and distribution systems, including medium-voltage applications.
Examples of problem-solving scenarios where technical expertise was applied to resolve design challenges and ensure project objectives were met.
Documentation illustrating effective client/owner communication and relationship management throughout project lifecycles.
Projects that showcase adherence to code compliance (NEC, UL) and budget considerations in design deliverables. Process Documentation:
Workflow examples detailing the design team's process for concept development, scope definition, and the creation of detailed construction drawings and specifications.
Evidence of quality assurance processes, including internal design reviews, audits, and alignment with client expectations.
Documentation of collaboration processes with Project Managers, Estimators, Superintendents, and other trades to ensure seamless project execution.
Case studies demonstrating the application of knowledge in the installation, startup, and commissioning of medium-voltage systems and equipment.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, a portfolio should go beyond theoretical designs. It needs to showcase practical application, client interaction, and successful project delivery within the specified electrical design disciplines. Emphasis should be placed on demonstrating the ability to manage a design process that results in constructable, code-compliant, and budget-adherent outcomes, particularly in complex power systems.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $93,100 - $128,030+ annually. This range is based on the provided information and industry benchmarks for Design Managers with 5-10 years of experience in the energy sector in Sioux Falls, SD. Factors such as specific experience, advanced degrees, and specialized certifications can influence placement within this range.

Benefits:

Competitive Pay: Acknowledges and values employee contributions.
401(k): Retirement savings plan to support long-term financial planning.
Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance: Comprehensive medical coverage with multiple plan options to suit individual and family needs.
Vacation: Paid time off to encourage work-life balance and personal well-being.
Performance Bonus: Incentive program tied to individual and company performance, rewarding achievements.
Established Career Paths: Clear pathways for professional development and advancement within the organization.
Career Coaches: Dedicated support and guidance from professionals focused on employee success and growth.

Working Hours: Typically 40 hours per week, with potential for overtime depending on project demands. The role may require flexibility to meet project deadlines and client needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is specific and aligns with the experience level and location. The benefits package is comprehensive, with a strong emphasis on career development and employee well-being, which is attractive for operations professionals seeking long-term growth. The mention of "Career Coaches" and "Established Career Paths" directly addresses the growth aspect often sought in operations roles.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Electrical, Controls, Automation, and Operational Technology (OT) services for industrial facilities, power generation, and utilities. Interstates is a significant player in the energy sector, providing critical infrastructure solutions.

Company Size: Interstates is a medium to large-sized company, indicated by its national presence and diverse project portfolio. This size typically allows for structured processes and career development while maintaining a more personal, family-like atmosphere.

Founded: While the founding date isn't explicitly stated in the provided text, the company's established presence and award-winning work suggest a history of growth and stability. The company's culture is described as "Family-Like."

Team Structure:

The Design department likely consists of various engineering disciplines, CAD operators, and project support staff, with the Design Manager overseeing specific project design teams.
Reporting structure typically involves the Design Manager reporting to a Director of Engineering or similar senior leadership role, while leading project-specific design teams.
Cross-functional collaboration is essential, with close ties to Project Management, Estimating, Operations, and Construction teams to ensure seamless project execution from bid to completion. Methodology:
Data-driven decision-making is likely a core component, utilizing project performance data, client feedback, and technical analysis to inform design choices and process improvements.
Workflow planning and optimization are critical, ensuring efficient and effective design processes that meet project timelines and quality standards.
Automation and efficiency practices are encouraged, especially in areas like CAD drawing production and specification generation, to enhance productivity and reduce errors.

Company Website: https://www.interstates.com/careers/jobs

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Family-Like" culture suggests a collaborative and supportive environment, which is a significant draw for operations professionals who thrive on teamwork and mutual support. The company's focus on core industrial services like electrical, controls, and automation implies a need for robust operational processes and a commitment to technical excellence.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This Design Manager role represents a senior-level position within the engineering and design operations function. It requires significant technical expertise, leadership capabilities, and client-facing experience. The scope includes direct responsibility for design quality, team mentorship, and client satisfaction on complex energy infrastructure projects.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager likely reports to a senior engineering leader (e.g., Director of Engineering, VP of Operations) and leads project-specific design teams, which may include engineers, designers, and CAD technicians. They will also collaborate closely with Project Managers and other operational leads.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's impact is crucial for Interstates' success. By ensuring the delivery of high-quality, constructable, and cost-effective design packages, they directly influence project profitability, client satisfaction, and the company's reputation for technical excellence. Effective design management minimizes costly rework during construction and ensures the operational integrity of the systems delivered.

Growth Opportunities:

Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas like medium-voltage systems, advanced power distribution, or particular types of industrial facilities through specialized projects and training.
Leadership Development: Progress into roles with broader management responsibilities, such as Director of Engineering, overseeing multiple design disciplines or larger project portfolios.
Business Development: Transition into roles that involve more direct client engagement, proposal strategy, and business development within the energy sector.
Process Improvement: Lead initiatives to enhance design workflows, implement new technologies, and optimize operational efficiency within the engineering department.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth opportunities highlight a clear path for advancement within Interstates, appealing to operations professionals who are ambitious and seeking to expand their leadership and technical capabilities within the energy sector. The focus on both technical depth and leadership progression is a strong indicator of a well-structured career development program.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Sioux Falls, SD, and while the description mentions "Remote OK," it also indicates travel requirements. This suggests a hybrid model where some work can be done remotely, but regular in-office presence or site visits might be necessary. The company culture emphasizes a "Family-Like" environment, implying a supportive and collaborative office atmosphere.

Office Location(s): The primary office location mentioned is Sioux Falls, SD. Interstates also has a national presence, with job sites across the country. This means the role might involve travel to various project locations, though typically less than 35% overnight travel is expected.

Workspace Context:

Collaborative Environment: The family-like culture suggests an open and supportive workspace where team members are encouraged to collaborate, share knowledge, and support each other.
Operations Tools & Technology: Access to necessary design software (CAD, potentially BIM), project management tools, and communication platforms is expected. The company's focus on automation and OT implies a modern technology stack.
Team Interaction: Opportunities for interaction with design teams, project managers, and other operational staff will be frequent, fostering a dynamic and engaging work environment.

Work Schedule: Standard working hours are implied to be around 40 hours per week, but flexibility is noted to accommodate project demands and client needs. This allows operations professionals to manage their time effectively while ensuring project success.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Remote OK" status combined with travel expectations points to a flexible work arrangement that requires strong self-discipline and communication skills. Candidates should be prepared for a blend of remote work and on-site project engagement, characteristic of many modern operations roles in project-based industries.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess qualifications against the core requirements, with a focus on electrical design experience and client interaction.
Technical Interview(s): Discussions with hiring managers and senior design staff to evaluate your technical expertise in power distribution, medium-voltage systems, NEC compliance, and problem-solving capabilities. Be prepared to discuss specific projects and design challenges.
Portfolio Review: A dedicated session to present and discuss your professional portfolio. This is where you'll showcase your design work, project management approach, and client engagement strategies.
Behavioral/Cultural Fit Interview: Assessment of your alignment with Interstates' "Family-Like" culture, teamwork, communication style, and leadership potential.
Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership to discuss overall fit, career aspirations, and finalize any offers.

Portfolio Review Tips:

Highlight Key Projects: Select 3-5 projects that best demonstrate your experience in electrical design for industrial facilities, power distribution, and medium-voltage applications.
Showcase Process: For each project, clearly outline your role, the design process followed, challenges encountered, solutions implemented, and the final outcomes. Emphasize your leadership and client management contributions.
Quantify Impact: Where possible, use metrics to demonstrate the success of your designs (e.g., cost savings, efficiency improvements, reduction in errors).
Technical Depth: Be ready to discuss the technical details of your designs, including code compliance (NEC, UL), system integration, and the application of specific electrical components.
Client Interaction: Prepare examples of how you managed client expectations, communicated technical information effectively, and resolved design-related issues with owners.

Challenge Preparation:

Technical Scenarios: Anticipate questions about specific electrical design problems, code interpretations, or troubleshooting scenarios common in industrial power systems.
Project Management Questions: Be ready to discuss how you would manage project timelines, resources, and potential conflicts within a design team.
Client Management Scenarios: Prepare responses for how you would handle difficult client conversations, manage scope creep, or present complex technical information to non-technical stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio review is crucial for this role. Candidates should prepare to articulate their design process, decision-making rationale, and client management strategies with concrete examples from their past projects, particularly those involving complex electrical systems.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

Electrical Design Software: Proficiency in AutoCAD Electrical, Revit MEP (for electrical design), or similar CAD platforms is essential for creating construction drawings and specifications.
Project Management Software: Familiarity with tools like Procore, Microsoft Project, or others used for tracking project timelines, resources, and communication.
Collaboration Platforms: Experience with Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar tools for internal team communication and coordination.

Analytics & Reporting:

Performance Tracking Tools: While not explicitly listed, the role will likely involve tracking design progress against schedules and budgets, potentially using features within project management software or custom reporting tools.
Data Analysis for Design: Ability to analyze data related to energy consumption, load calculations, and system performance to inform design decisions.

CRM & Automation:

CRM Systems: Experience interacting with or contributing data to CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics) may be beneficial for understanding client project history and needs, though not a primary requirement.
Specification Writing Tools: Familiarity with software or templates used for generating standardized technical specifications.
Document Management Systems: Experience with systems for organizing and sharing project documentation and revisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job description doesn't list specific software beyond the implied CAD tools, a candidate with experience in project management software and collaborative platforms will be better equipped to hit the ground running. The "Energy" focus suggests that knowledge of systems related to power distribution and control will be highly valued.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

Family-Like: A core value emphasizing mutual support, care, and treating colleagues as individuals. This translates to a collaborative and approachable team dynamic.
Quality Work: A commitment to delivering high-quality, award-winning work that clients can rely on. For operations, this means attention to detail, adherence to standards, and pride in craftsmanship.
Doing the Right Thing: Ethical conduct and integrity in all business dealings and project execution.
Making a Difference: A sense of purpose in contributing to essential infrastructure and community projects.
Innovation: Encouraging new ideas and approaches to solve challenges, particularly in design and automation.

Collaboration Style:

Team-Oriented: Emphasis on working together, sharing knowledge, and supporting team members to achieve collective goals.
Cross-Functional Integration: Strong collaboration between design, project management, estimating, and construction teams is vital for seamless project delivery.
Open Communication: An environment where feedback is encouraged, and issues are addressed proactively and transparently.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Family-Like" culture is a significant differentiator. Candidates should be prepared to discuss how they contribute to a supportive team environment and how they foster collaboration, as this is a key aspect of Interstates' operational ethos.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

Balancing Client Demands with Technical Feasibility: Effectively managing client expectations while ensuring designs are technically sound, constructable, and within budget.
Leading Diverse Design Teams: Guiding and mentoring engineers and designers with varying levels of experience and expertise across different disciplines.
Navigating Complex Projects: Tackling intricate electrical systems in industrial and medium-voltage applications, requiring deep technical knowledge and problem-solving skills.
Adapting to Evolving Technologies: Staying current with advancements in electrical design, automation, and power systems technologies to ensure competitive and innovative solutions.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

Advanced Technical Training: Opportunities for specialized training in areas like medium-voltage systems, relay protection, or specific industrial equipment.
Professional Licensure Support: Assistance with obtaining or maintaining professional engineering (PE) licenses.
Leadership Workshops: Development programs focused on enhancing project management, team leadership, and client engagement skills.
Industry Conferences: Participation in industry events to stay abreast of the latest trends and network with peers.
Mentorship Programs: Access to experienced leaders who can provide guidance on career progression and skill development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for a senior design management role in a complex industry. The growth opportunities are robust, emphasizing continuous learning and career advancement, which are key attractors for operations professionals seeking long-term career development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

Design Strategy: "Describe your approach to developing a constructable design package for a complex medium-voltage distribution system. How do you balance client requirements with technical feasibility and budget constraints?" (Focus on process, risk mitigation, and client alignment.)
Leadership & Team Management: "How do you mentor and develop junior design engineers? Provide an example of a time you resolved a conflict within your design team." (Highlight leadership style, conflict resolution, and team motivation.)
Client Management: "Walk me through a challenging client interaction you managed during a design project. What was the situation, your approach, and the outcome?" (Demonstrate communication, problem-solving, and client satisfaction focus.)

Company & Culture Questions:

Culture Fit: "Our culture is described as 'Family-Like.' How do you contribute to a positive and supportive team environment, and how do you believe this impacts project success?" (Emphasize collaboration, mutual support, and individual contribution.)
Interstates' Values: "How do you see the value of 'Doing the Right Thing' reflected in your day-to-day work as a Design Manager?" (Connect personal ethics to professional practice and company values.)
Impact Measurement: "How do you measure the success of your design deliverables beyond just meeting specifications? What metrics do you track to ensure operational efficiency and client satisfaction?" (Focus on quantifiable results and operational impact.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

Storytelling: Structure your portfolio presentations around compelling project narratives. Clearly define the problem, your solution, and the impact.
Visual Aids: Use clear, well-organized drawings, schematics, and photos to illustrate your work. Highlight key design elements and challenges.
Process Focus: Explain your design methodology, decision-making process, and how you ensured quality and constructability.
Client Engagement: Detail your communication strategies with clients, how you managed their feedback, and how you ensured their requirements were met.
Q&A Readiness: Be prepared to answer in-depth technical questions about your projects and demonstrate a deep understanding of electrical engineering principles.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on articulating a clear, process-driven approach to design management, highlighting leadership skills, and demonstrating a deep understanding of the energy sector's technical requirements and client relationship dynamics.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

Submit your application through the Interstates careers portal link provided.
Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and cover letter to prominently feature your experience in electrical design, power distribution systems, medium-voltage applications, and client relationship management. Quantify achievements where possible.
Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly highlights your four+ years of direct client/owner design project experience, technical leadership, and knowledge of NEC/UL standards. Use keywords from the job description.
Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, leadership style, and client management strategies using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Prepare specific case studies for your portfolio presentation.
Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Interstates' projects, values (especially "Family-Like" culture), and their role in the energy sector. Understand their commitment to quality and innovation.

⚠️ 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.

Design Manager- Energy