Design Manager in Ventura / LA / San Diego / Riverside Counties at MAAS Companies

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager

Company: MAAS Companies

Location: Ventura / LA / San Diego / Riverside Counties, California, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Design Management / Operations

Date Posted: 2026-05-15

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

Overseeing the complete design life cycle, from initial conceptualization and planning through to final project close-out and Department of State Architecture (DSA) certification.
Leading and coordinating the design process to ensure all projects adhere to specified requirements, regulatory standards, and organizational procedures.
Monitoring project progress against established schedules and budgets, ensuring alignment with construction standards and best practices.
Providing expert guidance and oversight on DSA projects, with a strong emphasis on K-14 and higher education facilities.
Driving efficiency and compliance within the design and construction process of educational and public facilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is framed as a Design Manager, but its emphasis on DSA certification, budget/schedule adherence, construction standards, and project close-out strongly positions it within the broader operational and project management spectrum of the construction and facilities sector. Its responsibilities echo those found in project operations and construction management roles, particularly those focused on public sector compliance.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

Manage and direct the full spectrum of design activities, ensuring adherence to DSA regulations and project-specific requirements for K-14 and higher education facilities.
Develop and maintain comprehensive project plans, including scope definition, resource allocation, and timeline management for design phases.
Conduct rigorous review and approval processes for design documents, submittals, and change orders, ensuring compliance and quality assurance.
Collaborate closely with architects, engineers, contractors, and regulatory bodies (e.g., DSA) to facilitate project progress and resolve design-related challenges.
Monitor and control project budgets, forecasting expenditures for design services and ensuring cost-effectiveness throughout the project lifecycle.
Implement and enforce organizational procedures and construction standards to maintain high levels of safety, quality, and performance in design outcomes.
Lead and mentor design teams, fostering a collaborative environment that encourages innovation, problem-solving, and professional development.
Prepare and present detailed project status reports to senior management and stakeholders, highlighting key milestones, risks, and mitigation strategies.
Ensure all design documentation is meticulously managed and archived, facilitating smooth transitions for DSA certification and future facility management.
Proactively identify potential design conflicts or compliance issues and implement timely corrective actions to prevent project delays or cost overruns.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities listed are comprehensive and directly align with a senior-level role responsible for driving complex design projects to successful completion, particularly within regulated environments like K-14 education. The emphasis on DSA certification and managing the entire design lifecycle underscores the operational and compliance-heavy nature of this position within MAAS Companies.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in design and/or design management.
A minimum of 5 years of this experience must be specifically focused on projects requiring DSA (Department of State Architecture) approval and oversight.

Required Skills:

Design Management: Proven ability to lead and manage complex design projects from inception to completion.
DSA Project Expertise: In-depth knowledge and practical experience with California DSA requirements, processes, and certification pathways.
Project Planning & Execution: Strong skills in developing detailed project plans, managing timelines, and ensuring efficient execution of design tasks.
Budget Management: Proficiency in developing, monitoring, and controlling design budgets, including forecasting and cost control strategies.
Construction Standards & Compliance: Thorough understanding of building codes, construction standards, and regulatory compliance, particularly those mandated by DSA.
Stakeholder Communication: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills for effective collaboration with internal teams, external consultants, and regulatory agencies.
Problem-Solving: Ability to identify and resolve complex design challenges and compliance issues proactively.
Team Leadership: Demonstrated experience in leading, mentoring, and motivating design teams.

Preferred Skills:

Licensed Architect (California): A valid and current Certificate of Registration as an Architect in California is highly desirable.
K-14 / Higher Education Project Experience: Specific, hands-on experience in the design of school campuses, educational facilities, or university infrastructure.
Contract Administration: Familiarity with contract negotiation, management, and administration for design services.
Risk Management: Ability to identify, assess, and mitigate design-related risks.
Advanced Degree: Master's degree in a relevant field.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a minimum of 5 years of DSA project experience is a critical differentiator, highlighting the specialized regulatory knowledge required. The preference for a Licensed Architect further solidifies the technical and professional depth expected for this role, positioning it as a senior-level position demanding specific expertise in public sector construction compliance.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

DSA Compliance Case Studies: Showcase specific projects where you successfully navigated DSA review processes, including documentation of approvals and certifications obtained.
Project Lifecycle Management Examples: Demonstrate your ability to manage the entire design process, from conceptualization and schematic design through construction documentation and close-out.
Budget and Schedule Control: Provide examples of how you have effectively managed design budgets and schedules, highlighting any cost savings or efficiency improvements achieved.
System Implementation & Standards Documentation: Illustrate your experience in implementing design standards and ensuring systems (e.g., project management software, BIM) are utilized effectively to support project goals.
Risk Mitigation Examples: Include case studies detailing how you identified and mitigated potential design or compliance risks on past projects.

Process Documentation:

Workflow Design & Optimization: Present examples of documented design workflows you have developed or optimized, emphasizing efficiency and clarity in process steps.
Implementation & Automation: Showcase instances where you have implemented new design processes or leveraged technology to automate tasks, improve collaboration, or enhance quality control.
Measurement & Performance Analysis: Demonstrate your approach to measuring the performance of design processes, including key metrics used, analysis of outcomes, and continuous improvement strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role with such a strong emphasis on regulatory compliance (DSA) and managing complex projects, a portfolio demonstrating practical application of these skills is crucial. The focus should be on quantifiable achievements and clear documentation of process adherence and optimization.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $150,000 - $180,000 per year

Benefits:

Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance plans to support employee well-being.
Retirement Planning: 401K Retirement Plan with an optional employee contribution.
Employee Ownership: 100% Employee Owned through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), offering direct stake in company success.
Automatic Contributions: Safe Harbor Account with a MAAS automatic contribution of 3%, accruing from day one.
Generous Paid Time Off: 3 weeks of Paid Time Off annually (2 weeks vacation, 1 week sick leave), in addition to recognized holidays.
Financial Wellness: Flexible Spending Account (FSA) for managing healthcare and dependent care expenses.
Family Support: Access to Family and Medical Leave benefits.
Performance-Based Incentives: Stock Options, providing further opportunities for wealth creation tied to company performance.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is competitive for a Design Manager role with extensive experience and specialized regulatory knowledge in the California market. The benefits package is exceptionally strong, particularly the 100% employee ownership (ESOP) and the Safe Harbor contribution, which significantly enhance the total compensation and employee value proposition for operations and management professionals.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction / Architecture / Engineering Services

Company Size: MAAS Companies is part of the broader construction and design services sector, likely operating as a mid-to-large sized firm given the scope of its projects and employee ownership structure.

Founded: While the founding date isn't specified, the company's structure as 100% employee-owned suggests a mature organization with a commitment to its workforce's long-term success and stability.

Team Structure:

Operations & Design Focus: The team likely comprises specialized design professionals (architects, engineers), project managers, construction administrators, and support staff, all working collaboratively to deliver complex projects.
Hierarchical & Collaborative: A standard hierarchical structure for management and project oversight is expected, balanced with a collaborative approach required for intricate design and construction processes.
Cross-Functional Integration: This role will necessitate close collaboration with various internal departments (e.g., project management, legal, finance) and external stakeholders, including clients, DSA officials, and construction partners.

Methodology:

DSA Compliance Focus: A core methodology revolves around strict adherence to DSA regulations and standards throughout the design and construction phases.
Project Management Excellence: Implementation of robust project management methodologies to ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.
Data-Driven Decision Making: Utilizing project data, performance metrics, and feedback loops to inform design decisions and optimize ongoing processes.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's 100% employee ownership is a significant cultural differentiator, fostering a strong sense of shared purpose and commitment. This likely translates into a supportive and collaborative work environment where employees are invested in collective success. The focus on K-14 and higher education projects indicates a specialization in public sector infrastructure.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior-level Design Manager position, responsible for significant project oversight and strategic direction within the design and construction lifecycle, particularly concerning regulatory compliance. It represents a key leadership role within the operations framework of MAAS Companies.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager likely reports to a Director of Operations, Vice President of Design, or a similar senior executive responsible for overseeing project delivery and design strategy. They will, in turn, manage teams of designers and coordinate with project managers.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct and substantial impact on MAAS Companies' ability to secure and successfully execute projects, especially those requiring stringent DSA compliance. Effective design management ensures project profitability, client satisfaction, and adherence to critical safety and quality standards, directly contributing to the company's reputation and financial health.

Growth Opportunities:

Leadership Advancement: Potential to advance into roles such as Director of Design, VP of Operations, or a more senior executive position overseeing multiple project portfolios.
Specialization Development: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific areas of educational facility design, sustainable building practices, or advanced project management techniques.
Mentorship & Training: As a senior leader, opportunities to mentor junior staff, develop training programs, and contribute to the company's overall knowledge base and operational excellence.
Increased Project Scope: Progression to managing larger, more complex, or a greater number of concurrent projects, potentially including flagship initiatives for the company.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for a Design Manager at a company like MAAS Companies, with its employee ownership model, offers substantial long-term growth potential, both in terms of responsibility and financial reward through equity. The company's specialization in public sector projects presents a stable and significant market for career development.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is primarily on-site, requiring the Design Manager to be present at project sites or company offices within the specified Southern California counties (Ventura, LA, San Diego, Riverside). This indicates a need for local presence and accessibility.

Office Location(s): The position covers multiple key counties in Southern California, suggesting that the Design Manager may need to travel between project sites and potentially company offices in Los Angeles, Ventura, San Diego, or Riverside. A primary base in Los Angeles is indicated, but regional flexibility is essential.

Workspace Context:

Field & Office Blend: The role involves a mix of on-site project visits for oversight and in-office work for planning, documentation, and team coordination.
Collaborative Design Studios: Likely access to office spaces equipped for design collaboration, potentially including CAD stations, meeting rooms, and resource libraries.
Technology Integration: Expectation of access to and proficient use of project management software, design collaboration tools, and communication platforms.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week. However, project demands, especially nearing critical deadlines or DSA review stages, may require flexibility and occasional extended hours to ensure project milestones are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "On-site" designation and multi-county coverage indicate a field-oriented role with significant travel requirements. Candidates should be prepared for a dynamic work environment that balances office-based strategic planning with on-the-ground project oversight.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess qualifications, particularly DSA experience and leadership capabilities.
Technical Interview: Focused discussion on your experience with DSA projects, design management methodologies, budget/schedule control, and specific technical skills related to architecture and engineering. Be prepared to discuss case studies from your portfolio.
Behavioral/Situational Interview: Questions designed to assess your leadership style, problem-solving approach, collaboration skills, and how you handle challenging situations within a project team or with external stakeholders.
Portfolio Presentation: A dedicated session where you will present selected projects from your portfolio, detailing your role, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented, and the outcomes achieved, with a strong emphasis on DSA compliance and project success metrics.
Final Interview: Meeting with senior leadership to discuss cultural fit, long-term career aspirations, and alignment with MAAS Companies' vision and values.

Portfolio Review Tips:

Highlight DSA Success: Clearly showcase your experience with DSA projects, detailing your specific contributions to achieving certification and compliance. Quantify achievements wherever possible (e.g., "Reduced DSA review time by X%," "Managed a $Y million design budget").
Structure for Clarity: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type (K-14, higher education) or by demonstrating mastery of different project phases (planning, execution, close-out).
Tell a Story: For each case study, articulate the problem, your proposed solution, the steps you took, and the positive results. Emphasize your leadership and decision-making process.
Showcase Process Optimization: Include examples of how you've improved design workflows, implemented new technologies, or streamlined processes to enhance efficiency and quality.
Tailor to MAAS Companies: Research MAAS Companies' projects and values. If possible, highlight projects or experiences that align with their specific focus areas and company culture.

Challenge Preparation:

Scenario-Based Questions: Be ready to address hypothetical scenarios related to managing difficult stakeholders, resolving design conflicts, or responding to unexpected project challenges.
Process Improvement Proposals: You might be asked to outline how you would approach improving a specific design process or addressing a common challenge in educational facility design.
DSA Compliance Scenarios: Prepare to discuss how you would handle specific DSA review comments or compliance issues.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process heavily emphasizes practical experience and demonstrable success, particularly concerning DSA compliance. A well-curated portfolio that clearly articulates achievements and process mastery will be critical for advancing.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

Project Management Software: Experience with platforms like Procore, Autodesk Construction Cloud, Oracle Aconex, or similar enterprise-level project management systems for tracking project progress, documentation, and communication.
Design & Collaboration Tools: Proficiency in Autodesk Suite (AutoCAD, Revit), Adobe Creative Suite (for presentations and reports), and potentially BIM (Building Information Modeling) software for collaborative design and clash detection.
Document Management Systems: Familiarity with systems for organizing, storing, and retrieving project documentation, ensuring version control and accessibility.
Communication Platforms: Proficient use of tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, Zoom, or similar for internal and external team communication and virtual meetings.

Analytics & Reporting:

Budgeting & Financial Software: Experience with financial tracking tools or modules within project management software for budget monitoring and forecasting.
Reporting Dashboards: Ability to create and interpret performance reports, potentially using features within PM software or dedicated business intelligence tools to track design progress, compliance status, and key performance indicators (KPIs).

CRM & Automation:

CRM (for Client/Stakeholder Management): While less direct, understanding how CRM principles apply to managing relationships with clients, consultants, and regulatory bodies is beneficial.
Workflow Automation Tools: Familiarity with any tools or custom scripts used to automate repetitive design tasks, document generation, or data entry within the design process.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this role is not strictly a "RevOps" or "SalesOps" role, proficiency with project management and design software is paramount. The emphasis on DSA certification and managing complex projects implies a need for robust digital tools that support compliance, collaboration, and efficient workflow management.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

Integrity & Compliance: A strong commitment to ethical practices and unwavering adherence to regulatory standards, especially DSA requirements.
Excellence & Quality: A dedication to delivering high-quality design outcomes that are not only functional and aesthetically pleasing but also safe and compliant.
Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive environment where team members work together effectively, share knowledge, and contribute to collective success.
Efficiency & Accountability: Driving operational efficiency in design processes and holding individuals and teams accountable for project deliverables and commitments.
Innovation & Continuous Improvement: Encouraging the adoption of new technologies and methodologies to enhance design processes and project outcomes.

Collaboration Style:

Cross-Functional Partnership: Actively engaging with project managers, construction teams, clients, and regulatory agencies to ensure seamless project execution and alignment.
Feedback-Driven Improvement: Cultivating a culture where constructive feedback is welcomed and used to refine processes and improve team performance.
Knowledge Sharing: Promoting the open exchange of information, best practices, and lessons learned across design teams and departments to build organizational knowledge.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Great Place to Work" certification mentioned in the company description suggests a positive and employee-centric culture. The emphasis on integrity, quality, and collaboration aligns well with the professional demands of managing complex, regulated projects.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

Navigating Complex Regulations: The primary challenge will be consistently meeting and exceeding the stringent and evolving requirements of the DSA, ensuring all projects achieve certification without significant delays.
Balancing Stakeholder Needs: Effectively managing the diverse expectations of clients, internal teams, construction partners, and regulatory bodies to achieve project consensus and success.
Managing Multiple Projects: Overseeing design processes for several projects concurrently, each with unique requirements, timelines, and potential complexities, across different geographic locations.
Adapting to New Technologies: Staying abreast of and integrating new design software, BIM technologies, and project management tools to maintain efficiency and competitive advantage.
Budgetary Constraints: Delivering high-quality, compliant designs within established budget parameters, especially in public sector projects where funding can be a sensitive issue.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

Advanced DSA Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific areas of DSA code interpretation and application through specialized training or certifications.
Leadership Development Programs: Internal or external programs focused on enhancing leadership, strategic planning, and executive management skills.
Industry Conferences & Seminars: Participation in events related to architecture, construction management, K-14/higher education design, and regulatory compliance.
Mentorship: Learning from experienced senior leaders within MAAS Companies and potentially through industry networks.
Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Gaining exposure to other aspects of MAAS Companies' operations, such as project management, contract negotiation, or business development.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents a significant opportunity for professionals to become subject matter experts in DSA compliance and large-scale educational facility design. The challenges are substantial but directly correlate with opportunities for significant professional growth and impact.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

"Describe your most challenging DSA project and how you successfully navigated the certification process. What were the key lessons learned?" (Focus on problem-solving, regulatory knowledge, and process management.)
"How do you ensure design teams and external consultants remain aligned with project budgets and schedules while maintaining quality and compliance?" (Focus on project controls, communication, and team leadership.)

Company & Culture Questions:

"What interests you most about MAAS Companies, particularly our focus on K-14 and higher education projects and our employee ownership model?" (Demonstrate research into the company and alignment with its mission.)
"How do you foster a collaborative and high-performing design team, especially when working across multiple project sites or with remote team members?" (Focus on leadership style, communication, and team-building.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

Quantify Achievements: For each project presented, highlight quantifiable results such as budget adherence, schedule milestones met, specific DSA approvals obtained, or efficiency gains.
Focus on Process: Clearly articulate the design process you followed, emphasizing your role in planning, execution, oversight, and problem-solving, particularly concerning DSA requirements.
Demonstrate Leadership: Use "I" statements when describing your direct actions and decisions, and "we" when discussing team efforts. Highlight how you led, guided, and empowered your teams.
Visual Aids: Use clear, concise slides that showcase project visuals (renderings, site plans) alongside key data points and process flowcharts. Ensure any DSA documentation examples are clear.
Prepare for Q&A: Anticipate questions about specific technical challenges, design choices, budget trade-offs, and your approach to managing difficult stakeholder interactions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should heavily lean into showcasing specific, tangible examples of success in DSA-certified projects. The ability to articulate complex processes clearly and demonstrate leadership in challenging environments will be key differentiators.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

Submit your application through the provided link on Workable.
Portfolio Customization: Curate a portfolio that prominently features your experience with DSA-certified projects. Select 2-3 key projects that best illustrate your end-to-end design management capabilities, budget control, and successful navigation of regulatory compliance.
Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight keywords such as "Design Management," "DSA Certification," "K-14 Design," "Higher Education Projects," "Project Planning," "Budget Management," and "Construction Standards." Ensure your 10+ years of experience, with at least 5 years in DSA projects, is clearly stated.
Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions. Prepare a concise and compelling narrative for your portfolio presentation, focusing on your process and achievements.
Company Research: Deeply research MAAS Companies' website, recent projects, and any available information about their culture and values, particularly concerning their employee ownership and commitment to public sector projects. Understand their approach to design and construction.

⚠️ 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 in Ventura / LA / San Diego / Riverside Counties