Design Manager- Energy at Interstates

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager - Energy

Company: Interstates

Location: Remote, US

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Operations - Energy/Engineering Design Management

Date Posted: 2026-06-05T21:09:34

Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 Years)

Remote Status: Fully Remote

🚀 Role Summary

Lead and manage design teams through the entire project lifecycle, from initial pursuit and concept development to final commissioning and ongoing client support, with a strong focus on energy and power distribution systems.
Serve as the primary technical liaison and advocate for client/owner requirements, ensuring the delivery of high-quality, constructable, and code-compliant design packages across multiple engineering disciplines.
Provide technical leadership, mentorship, and decision-making for design efforts, ensuring alignment with project goals, budgets, and timelines.
Develop and execute comprehensive design strategies, including the creation of detailed construction drawings and specifications for electrical installation, interconnection, control, and power distribution systems, particularly for medium-voltage applications.
Drive client relationship management by maintaining regular communication, addressing technical queries, and proactively solving problems to ensure client satisfaction and foster long-term partnerships.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a Design Manager with a clear emphasis on the energy sector, specifically focusing on power and distribution systems, including medium-voltage applications. The responsibilities heavily lean into technical leadership, client management, and the end-to-end delivery of design packages. While titled "Manager," the experience level suggests a strong individual contributor with leadership capabilities rather than a pure people management role, focusing on project-specific design team leadership. The "Energy" designation implies a need for deep understanding of power generation, distribution, and related infrastructure.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

Champion client/owner relationships by presenting technical concepts, engaging in detailed discussions, and providing crucial design input during project pursuits and throughout the project lifecycle.
Conduct thorough reviews of project information, develop innovative concept designs, meticulously define the scope of design work, and actively support proposal and estimating processes.
Act as the central point of contact for clients regarding design parameters, technical inquiries, and the resolution of complex problems, ensuring clear and consistent communication.
Proactively maintain and nurture client relationships through consistent check-ins and engagement, both during and between active project engagements.
Collaborate closely with Project Managers to establish clear project goals, develop realistic schedules, effectively manage project issues, and ensure transparent communication of progress across a portfolio of projects.
Lead and orchestrate design teams, ensuring seamless coordination and the delivery of design packages that are not only constructable and code-compliant but also cost-conscious and aligned with budgetary constraints.
Provide robust technical leadership, mentor and guide design team members, conduct rigorous reviews of design efforts, and proactively identify any resource or skill gaps within the team.
Uphold the quality of all design deliverables through rigorous internal reviews, systematic audits, and strict adherence to client expectations and company standards.
Support Construction Administration efforts and maintain strong client relationships during the construction phase and beyond active project timelines.
Produce detailed construction drawings and specifications for electrical installation, interconnection, control, and power distribution systems, with a specific focus on medium-voltage applications where relevant.
Apply specialized knowledge of installation, startup, and commissioning procedures for medium-voltage (MV) systems and equipment, including the intricacies of microprocessor-based relays.
Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of electrical terminology, components, standard electrical symbols, and the National Electric Code (NEC).
Ensure strict compliance with all applicable codes and industry standards, including the NEC and UL requirements.
Facilitate effective communication and issue resolution by coordinating with Engineers, Estimators, Superintendents, CAD Operators, and other relevant trades.
Continuously monitor project performance, identify and communicate any deviations or risks, and promptly escalate concerns to senior management as required.
Apply sound judgment, meticulous attention to detail, and effective prioritization skills to successfully manage competing deadlines and complex project demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical expertise in electrical design (specifically power systems and MV applications), client-facing communication, and project leadership. The emphasis on "constructable," "code-compliant," and "budget-conscious" design packages points to a strong focus on practical application and project delivery, which is critical in operations and engineering roles. The role requires a proactive approach to client management and problem-solving, indicative of a senior individual contributor or a manager of small project teams.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Electrical Engineering Technology, or a related field is highly preferred. Equivalent practical experience in electrical design and project management within the energy sector may be considered.

Experience: A minimum of four (4) years of direct experience working with clients/owners on design projects is required. Demonstrable expertise in one or more electrical design disciplines, with a strong working knowledge of related industrial, power, and utility systems, is essential. Preference will be given to candidates with specific experience in power generation, relaying, and/or engineering design.

Required Skills:

Expertise in electrical design disciplines, with a strong focus on power and distribution systems.
Proven ability to manage and lead design teams through the project lifecycle.
Strong client relationship management and communication skills, with experience in client presentations and technical discussions.
Comprehensive knowledge of the National Electric Code (NEC) and UL requirements.
Experience with medium-voltage (MV) applications, including installation, startup, and commissioning of MV systems and equipment.
Proficiency in developing construction drawings and specifications.
Understanding of electrical terminology, components, and symbols.
Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams including Engineers, Estimators, Superintendents, and CAD Operators.
Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to make sound technical decisions.
Excellent attention to detail and prioritization skills to manage multiple projects and deadlines. Preferred Skills:
Experience with microprocessor-based relays.
Background in power generation or utility systems.
Familiarity with relaying principles and applications.
Project management methodologies and tools.
Knowledge of automation and OT systems within industrial facilities.
Experience with CAD software for electrical design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize practical, hands-on experience in electrical design, particularly within the energy sector. The requirement for 4+ years of client-facing design project experience is a key differentiator, suggesting that candidates should be prepared to showcase their ability to manage client expectations and technical communication. The preference for power generation, relaying, and engineering backgrounds indicates a specialized technical focus for this role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

Showcase at least two (2) detailed case studies of complex electrical design projects, clearly outlining your role, the challenges faced, and the solutions implemented.
Include examples of construction drawings and specifications you have developed, demonstrating proficiency in design software and adherence to industry standards (e.g., NEC, UL).
Present a specific project where you managed client relationships and technical discussions, highlighting your communication strategies and success in meeting client requirements.
Demonstrate your understanding of budget and schedule management within design projects, perhaps through a project summary that details how you contributed to cost-effective and timely design delivery.
Provide evidence of your technical leadership and mentoring capabilities, potentially through a project where you guided junior engineers or coordinated a design team. Process Documentation:
Be prepared to discuss your systematic approach to concept development and scope definition for electrical design projects.
Articulate your process for ensuring design constructability, code compliance (NEC, UL), and budget adherence.
Outline your methods for coordinating with cross-functional teams (e.g., Estimators, Superintendents, CAD Operators) to ensure seamless project execution.
Detail your approach to quality assurance and control for design deliverables, including internal review processes.
Explain your strategy for managing client relationships and technical communication throughout the project lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role with a strong technical component, a portfolio is crucial. It should not only display technical drawings and specifications but also demonstrate project management aspects like client interaction, problem-solving, and team coordination. The focus on "constructable," "code-compliant," and "budget-conscious" design packages suggests that candidates should highlight projects where these factors were critical.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $93,100 - $128,030 annually. This range is determined by job-related skills, training, education, and experience.

Benefits:

Competitive Pay, reflecting your value to the team.
401(k) plan to support your long-term financial planning.
Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance options to meet diverse needs.
Paid Vacation time, allowing for personal focus and rejuvenation.
Performance Bonuses, recognizing significant contributions and achievements.
Established Career Paths, providing clear direction for professional advancement.
Access to Career Coaches dedicated to supporting your success and development.

Working Hours: Standard full-time hours, likely around 40 hours per week, with flexibility to accommodate project needs and remote work. Travel is expected as project needs arise, but typically less than 35% overnight travel.

📝 Enhancement Note: The stated salary range is competitive for a Design Manager role with 4+ years of experience, especially considering the fully remote nature and specialized industry focus. The benefits package is robust, offering standard but valuable benefits for professionals in the engineering and construction sectors, with a notable emphasis on career development through established paths and coaching.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Electrical, Controls, Automation, and OT work. Interstates powers industrial facilities for clients in the U.S. and globally, with a specialization in energy infrastructure.

Company Size: Interstates is a significant player in its field, though specific size is not provided. The description implies a company with a national presence and diverse project portfolio, suggesting a medium to large organization capable of handling complex projects.

Founded: Founded in 1969, Interstates has a long-standing history in the industry, indicating stability, experience, and a deep understanding of electrical and automation systems.

Team Structure:

The operations and design teams likely consist of specialized engineers, designers, project managers, estimators, and field personnel.
The Design Manager will report to a senior engineering or project leadership role, likely a Director of Engineering or a Senior Project Executive.
Cross-functional collaboration is a core aspect, requiring close interaction with Project Managers, Estimators, Superintendents, and CAD Operators to ensure seamless project execution from design through construction. Methodology:
Data-driven decision-making, with an emphasis on technical accuracy and constructability in design.
Agile project execution principles may be applied in managing design timelines and client interactions.
Continuous improvement through project reviews, lessons learned, and adoption of best practices in electrical design and project management.
Strong focus on safety and quality in all operations.

Company Website: https://www.interstates.com/careers/jobs?gh_jid=4277556009&gh_jid=4277556009

📝 Enhancement Note: Interstates positions itself as a family-like company that values its employees, emphasizing camaraderie, individual treatment, and work-life balance. This contrasts with a purely corporate structure and suggests a supportive environment where employees are encouraged to grow. The company's long history and focus on award-winning work in critical infrastructure (energy, industrial) indicate a stable, reputable organization with a commitment to quality and innovation.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a mid-level management or senior individual contributor level, requiring significant technical expertise and client-facing experience. It's a step beyond a junior engineer or designer and involves leadership in design execution and client advocacy.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager likely reports to a Director of Engineering, Senior Project Executive, or a similar leadership role overseeing multiple projects or a specific division. They will, in turn, lead project-specific design teams.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's impact is critical to the success of energy projects. By ensuring high-quality, constructable, and code-compliant designs, they directly influence project profitability, client satisfaction, safety outcomes, and the long-term reliability of the power infrastructure being built. Their technical leadership prevents costly rework and ensures projects meet their intended operational goals.

Growth Opportunities:

Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in medium-voltage systems, power generation, relaying, or specific energy sub-sectors (e.g., renewables, industrial power).
Leadership Advancement: Transition into roles such as Senior Design Manager, Director of Engineering, or Project Executive, managing larger teams and portfolios.
Professional Development: Pursue advanced certifications, licensure (e.g., Professional Engineer - PE), and continuous education in emerging energy technologies and design methodologies.
Cross-Functional Mobility: Opportunities to move into senior project management, business development, or operational leadership roles within the energy sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for a Design Manager in this context is typically linear within engineering management or project leadership. The emphasis on "Established Career Paths" and "Career Coaches" suggests Interstates invests in employee development, offering structured growth opportunities. For a remote role, demonstrating initiative and impact will be key for progression.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Fully Remote. This role operates without a central office requirement, allowing for flexibility in location within the United States.

Office Location(s): Remote, US. Candidates can be based anywhere within the United States, providing significant flexibility.

Workspace Context:

Collaborative Environment: While remote, expect active participation in virtual team meetings, design reviews, and client calls. Collaboration will be facilitated through digital tools.
Operations Tools & Technology: Access to industry-standard design software (CAD), project management platforms, communication tools (e.g., Teams, Slack), and potential cloud-based design collaboration suites will be essential.
Team Interaction: Regular interaction with internal design teams, project management, estimating, and field personnel via video conferencing, phone, and digital collaboration platforms.

Work Schedule: The role is full-time, likely adhering to standard business hours within a chosen US time zone for team coordination. Flexibility is inherent in remote work, but responsiveness during core business hours is expected. The role demands strong self-management and time management skills to balance project demands with personal life.

📝 Enhancement Note: The fully remote nature of this role is a significant advantage for work-life balance and geographical flexibility. However, it necessitates strong self-discipline, excellent digital communication skills, and the ability to build rapport and collaborate effectively through virtual channels. Candidates should be prepared to discuss how they maintain productivity and team engagement in a remote setting.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

Initial Screening: A recruiter or HR representative will conduct an initial screening to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.
Hiring Manager Interview: Expect a technical interview with the hiring manager (likely a Director of Engineering or Senior Project Executive) to delve into your design expertise, project management approach, and client interaction skills. Be ready to discuss your portfolio in detail.
Technical/Team Interview: This may involve a panel interview with other engineers, project managers, or subject matter experts. You might be asked to present a case study from your portfolio or solve a hypothetical design challenge.
Final Interview: Potentially a discussion with a senior leader to assess strategic alignment and long-term potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

Curate Selectively: Choose 2-3 of your most impactful projects that best demonstrate your expertise in energy design, medium-voltage systems, client management, and leadership.
Focus on Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your unique contribution, the technical solutions implemented, and the quantifiable results (e.g., cost savings, efficiency improvements, successful commissioning).
Structure for Clarity: Organize your presentation logically. For each case study, cover: Project Overview, Your Role & Responsibilities, Key Challenges, Design Solutions, Technical Details, Client Interaction, and Outcomes.
Highlight Technical Depth: Be prepared to discuss the specifics of NEC compliance, MV system design, relaying principles, and constructability considerations.
Demonstrate Collaboration: Show how you effectively worked with other disciplines and stakeholders.

Challenge Preparation:

Design Scenario: Be prepared for a hypothetical design problem related to power distribution, system integration, or troubleshooting in an industrial/energy setting. Focus on your problem-solving methodology.
Client Management Scenario: Anticipate questions about how you would handle challenging client feedback, scope creep, or technical disagreements.
Technical Questions: Brush up on NEC requirements, MV system components, power quality, and protection schemes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role will likely be rigorous, focusing on both technical acumen and soft skills. A strong portfolio presentation is paramount, showcasing not just technical drawings but also your ability to manage projects, clients, and teams effectively. Preparing specific examples for behavioral questions related to leadership, problem-solving, and client management will be crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

Electrical Design Software: Proficiency in industry-standard CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD Electrical, Revit MEP) for creating construction drawings and schematics.
Project Management Software: Familiarity with platforms like Microsoft Project, Asana, Monday.com, or similar tools for scheduling, task management, and team coordination.
Communication Platforms: Expertise in using Microsoft Teams, Slack, Zoom, or other virtual collaboration tools for meetings, instant messaging, and file sharing.

Analytics & Reporting:

Data Analysis Tools: While not explicitly stated, experience with tools for analyzing project performance metrics, budget tracking, and schedule adherence would be beneficial.
Reporting Tools: Ability to generate clear and concise reports on design progress, project status, and client feedback.

CRM & Automation:

CRM Systems: Familiarity with CRM platforms (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot) may be advantageous for understanding client interaction history and project pursuit pipelines, though not a primary requirement for the design manager role itself.
Automation Tools: Understanding of industrial automation concepts and potentially SCADA/HMI systems is relevant given the company's broader offerings.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack for a Design Manager in this role will primarily revolve around design and project execution tools. Proficiency in CAD software for electrical design and project management platforms is essential. Given the remote nature, strong command of virtual collaboration and communication tools is non-negotiable.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

Quality & Craftsmanship: A deep commitment to delivering high-quality, reliable, and constructable designs that stand the test of time.
Integrity & Doing the Right Thing: Upholding ethical standards in all dealings with clients, colleagues, and projects.
Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive environment where individuals work together, share knowledge, and achieve common goals.
Innovation & Continuous Improvement: Encouraging new ideas, embracing technological advancements, and constantly seeking ways to optimize processes and deliverables.
Client Focus: Prioritizing client needs and satisfaction by delivering exceptional service and technical expertise.

Collaboration Style:

Proactive & Communicative: Expect a culture that values open and frequent communication, especially across remote teams and disciplines.
Supportive & Family-Like: As described, the company fosters a caring atmosphere where colleagues support each other, akin to a family.
Results-Oriented: While collaborative, there's a strong focus on delivering project milestones, meeting deadlines, and achieving client objectives efficiently.
Mentorship-Driven: Opportunities for senior members to mentor junior staff, promoting knowledge transfer and professional development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is highlighted as "Family-Like," emphasizing care, individual treatment, and camaraderie. This suggests a collaborative and supportive work environment. The operations values likely align with delivering high-quality, reliable engineering solutions, with integrity, teamwork, and client satisfaction being paramount.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

Managing Remote Teams: Effectively leading and motivating a design team when not physically co-located requires strong digital communication and leadership skills.
Balancing Multiple Projects: Juggling the demands of various projects simultaneously, each with unique client requirements, technical complexities, and deadlines.
Technical Evolution: Keeping pace with advancements in energy technology, design software, and evolving electrical codes and standards.
Client Expectations: Navigating diverse client needs, managing expectations, and resolving conflicts proactively to maintain strong relationships.
Ensuring Constructability: Translating complex designs into practical, buildable solutions that are cost-effective and efficient for field execution.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

Advanced Technical Training: Access to specialized courses and certifications in areas like medium-voltage systems, power systems analysis, protective relaying, and renewable energy integration.
Project Management Skills: Development in areas such as advanced scheduling, risk management, and contract negotiation.
Leadership Development Programs: Opportunities to hone management, mentorship, and strategic planning skills.
Industry Conferences & Networking: Participation in energy and electrical engineering conferences to stay abreast of industry trends and network with peers.
Mentorship: Guidance from senior leaders within Interstates to navigate career progression and develop expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges for this role are typical for senior technical managers in dynamic industries. The growth opportunities are robust, with Interstates emphasizing professional development through structured paths, coaching, and continuous learning, which is a strong draw for ambitious operations professionals.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

"Describe a complex electrical design project you led from concept to completion. What were the key challenges, your specific contributions, and the outcomes?" (Focus on your process, technical solutions, and client management)
"How do you ensure that a design package is both constructable and budget-conscious, especially for medium-voltage applications?" (Highlight your understanding of practical execution and cost control)
"Walk me through your process for managing client relationships and technical communications on a project. How do you handle disagreements or scope changes?" (Emphasize communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills)
"How do you mentor and lead a design team, particularly in a remote setting?" (Showcase your leadership style, delegation, and team-building approach) Company & Culture Questions:
"What interests you about Interstates and our work in the energy sector?" (Research company projects, values, and recent news)
"Describe a time you had to uphold company values or ethical standards when faced with a difficult situation." (Prepare an example demonstrating integrity)
"How do you contribute to a collaborative and supportive team environment, especially when working remotely?" (Align your answer with the "Family-Like" culture and remote work expectations) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:
Tell a Story: Frame each case study as a narrative with a clear beginning (problem), middle (your solution/actions), and end (results).
Quantify Impact: Use data and metrics wherever possible to demonstrate the success of your designs (e.g., percentage of cost savings, reduction in project timeline, improved system efficiency).
Visual Aids: Use clear, well-annotated drawings, diagrams, and relevant photos to illustrate your points. Ensure any sensitive client information is redacted.
Engage Your Audience: Make it interactive. Pause for questions, solicit feedback, and tailor your presentation to the interviewer's areas of interest.
Focus on "Why": Explain not just what you did, but why you made specific technical or process decisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of deep technical expertise in energy systems, strong project leadership, and excellent client-facing skills. The portfolio presentation is a critical component, so practicing how to articulate your contributions and the impact of your work will be key.

📌 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 highlight specific experience in electrical design management, energy sector projects, medium-voltage systems, and client relationship management.
Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly outlines your 4+ years of design project experience, specific technical skills (NEC, MV applications), and leadership responsibilities. Use keywords from the job description.
Portfolio Preparation: Curate your portfolio with 2-3 strong case studies showcasing your most relevant projects. Be ready to present them clearly and concisely, focusing on impact and technical detail.
Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Interstates' projects, values, and culture. Understand their approach to energy infrastructure and their commitment to quality and client relationships.

⚠️ 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