Design Manager - Land Development

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager - Land Development

Company: LJA

Location: Greenville, SC, USA

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Land Development / Civil Engineering Design Management

Date Posted: 2026-09-15

Experience Level: 15+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the planning and execution of civil site and land development projects, ensuring high-quality deliverables with minimal Project Manager supervision.

• Drive innovation and technology adoption within design and production processes, focusing on enhancing efficiency and consistency across all offices.

• Establish, maintain, and enforce comprehensive CAD/BIM standards, templates, and guidelines to ensure uniform project quality.

• Serve as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) for Civil 3D, AutoCAD, BIM/ACC, and other digital design tools, providing advanced technical support.

• Develop and implement robust training programs, including specialized bootcamps, to address skill gaps and elevate the technical proficiency of the design team.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a senior-level individual contributor with significant influence over design technology and standards within LJA's Land Development division. The emphasis on "design quality, technology leadership, standards development, and process improvement" indicates a strategic operational focus beyond traditional project design management.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Oversee and ensure strict adherence to QA/QC standards, internal procedures, and industry best practices for design software and methodologies.

• Champion and implement innovative technology solutions and continuous process improvement initiatives to optimize design and production workflows.

• Develop, implement, and manage design and production technology solutions that enhance project quality and reduce production timelines.

• Identify critical skill gaps within the design team and proactively develop targeted training pathways, including specialized CAD and design bootcamps.

• Act as the primary point of contact and technical authority for Civil 3D, AutoCAD, BIM/ACC, and other digital design tools, offering advanced support.

• Maintain in-depth knowledge and best practices for Civil 3D modeling, including Sheet Set Manager, data shortcuts, XREF workflows, and label/annotation styles.

• Evaluate, recommend, and implement new design technologies that demonstrably improve output quality and reduce production time.

• Lead the development, maintenance, and enforcement of CAD and production standards across multiple teams and LJA offices to ensure consistency.

• Author and maintain critical documentation, including a comprehensive CAD Standards Manual and a Plan Production Guide.

• Provide advanced technical support and guidance to engineers and drafters engaged in drafting and modeling tasks.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus: direct project design contributions and strategic operational leadership in design technology and standards. This requires a candidate who can balance hands-on technical expertise with the ability to influence and implement company-wide process improvements.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma or technical school training with relevant coursework in computer-aided drafting, or equivalent practical experience. Experience:

• A minimum of 15 years of progressive drafting and design experience specifically within civil site and land development projects. Required Skills:

• Proficiency with AutoCAD Civil 3D: Deep expertise in modeling, toolset utilization, and best practices.

• AutoCAD Proficiency: Strong command of core AutoCAD functionalities relevant to land development.

• BIM/ACC Knowledge: Understanding and practical application of Building Information Modeling principles and Autodesk Construction Cloud.

• Sheet Set Manager & Data Shortcuts: Expertise in managing project drawing sets and leveraging data shortcuts for efficient workflows.

• XREF Workflows: Advanced knowledge of external reference management for collaborative design environments.

• Annotation & Labeling Best Practices: Ability to establish and enforce consistent and accurate annotation standards.

• QA/QC Standards: Proven ability to implement and uphold quality assurance and quality control procedures.

• Technical Training & Mentoring: Experience in developing and delivering training programs and mentoring junior staff.

• Process Improvement Methodologies: Demonstrated ability to analyze, optimize, and implement new design and production processes.

• CAD Standards Development: Experience in creating, documenting, and enforcing CAD standards.

• Project Coordination: Proven ability to coordinate effectively with internal teams, external agencies, and project stakeholders.

• Strong Oral and Written Communication Skills: Ability to articulate technical concepts clearly and professionally.

• Effective Interpersonal Skills: Capacity to build rapport and collaborate effectively with colleagues and public agency officials.

• Relationship Building: Skill in developing and maintaining strong professional relationships.

• Adaptability: Flexibility to manage changing work assignments and evolving project needs.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience leading CAD standards and technology initiatives across multiple teams or offices.

• Proven background in training, mentoring, and supporting technical staff in design software and processes.

• Demonstrated ability to balance innovation with the need for consistency and rigorous quality control.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "15+ years" experience and the emphasis on leadership in technology and standards suggest this role is for a highly seasoned professional. The preferred skills are critical for success, indicating a need for someone who has already demonstrated impact at a larger scale or across multiple entities.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate examples of complex civil site and land development projects where you played a key role in design and production.

• Showcase your ability to implement and enforce CAD/BIM standards, including examples of style guides or manuals you've developed or contributed to.

• Provide case studies illustrating successful process improvements or technology adoptions that led to measurable gains in efficiency, quality, or time savings.

• Include examples of training materials or documentation you've created to support technical staff in using design software and adhering to standards. Process Documentation:

• Evidence of creating or significantly contributing to CAD Standards Manuals and Plan Production Guides.

• Documentation of workflow designs and optimization strategies implemented for land development projects.

• Examples of implementation plans for new design technologies or software updates.

• Metrics and analysis demonstrating the impact of process improvements on project delivery, quality, and efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role of this seniority focused on standards and technology, a portfolio is crucial. It should not only showcase design work but, more importantly, evidence of strategic thinking and execution in process optimization, standards development, and technology implementation.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated Range: $120,000 - $180,000 annually.

• Methodology: This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for Design Managers or Senior CAD/BIM Leads with 15+ years of experience in land development civil engineering, particularly in a high-demand region like Greenville, SC. Factors considered include the seniority of the role, specialized technical skills (Civil 3D, BIM, standards development), and the strategic operational impact expected. LJA's employee-ownership model and its consistent ranking as a Top Workplace may also influence compensation to attract and retain top talent.

Benefits:

• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP): A significant benefit providing employee-owners with a stake in the company's success.

• Generous Time Off: Includes Paid Time Off (PTO), paid holidays, and a full office closure between Christmas and New Year's, promoting work-life balance.

• Comprehensive Health Benefits: Multiple plan options for health, dental, and even pet insurance, alongside robust mental health support.

• Family Support: Paid maternity and parental leave to support employees during significant life events.

• Education Support: Tuition reimbursement and in-house courses offered by the Learning and Development team to foster continuous learning.

• Referral Bonuses: Financial incentives for referring qualified candidates who are hired.

• Community Impact: Company-sponsored volunteer days and philanthropic initiatives, aligning with corporate social responsibility.

• Professional Development: Memberships to industry organizations to foster networking and stay current with industry trends.

• Career Growth: Opportunities for internal mobility and advancement within the organization.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time workweek, typically 40 hours.

• While on-site, LJA celebrates flexibility, allowing teams and offices to lead with their proven approaches, which may offer some localized schedule adaptability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an educated estimate for a senior role in this field and location. The ESOP is a key differentiator for LJA and should be a significant consideration for potential candidates.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering, Land Development, Civil Infrastructure Consulting. LJA operates in a dynamic sector requiring precision, regulatory compliance, and strong client relationships. The company's focus on innovation and technology integration suggests a forward-thinking approach within this established industry.

Company Size: Approximately 3,000+ employee-owners across nearly 100 locations. This signifies a large, well-established firm with a significant national presence, offering stability and extensive opportunities for collaboration and career growth.

Founded: While the founding date isn't explicitly stated, the company's size and extensive network imply a history of sustained growth and successful operations, likely several decades.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager will likely be part of a larger Land Development division, potentially with multiple teams and offices contributing to various projects.

• Reporting structure would typically be to a Project Manager or a Director of Operations/Design, with direct oversight and mentorship of design engineers and drafters.

• Cross-functional collaboration is key, involving Project Managers, engineers, surveyors, environmental specialists, and potentially client representatives and public agency officials. Methodology:

• Data Analysis & Insights: Emphasis on using data to drive process improvements, track quality metrics, and inform technology adoption decisions.

• Workflow Planning & Optimization: Strategic approach to mapping, analyzing, and refining design and production workflows for maximum efficiency and accuracy.

• Automation & Efficiency Practices: Proactive identification and implementation of tools and techniques to automate repetitive tasks and enhance overall team productivity.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: LJA's employee-ownership model (ESOP) is a significant cultural differentiator. This fosters a strong sense of shared responsibility, pride, and commitment among employees, influencing collaboration and a focus on long-term company success. The "Top Workplace" ranking further underscores a positive and supportive work environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Senior Managerial/Lead position within the design operations function. It requires extensive technical expertise combined with leadership in process, standards, and technology. The role is pivotal in ensuring the efficiency, quality, and technological advancement of LJA's land development design output.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will report to a Project Manager or a higher-level design/operations lead. They will, in turn, guide and mentor a team of drafters and potentially junior designers, overseeing their technical execution and adherence to standards.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's impact is significant, directly influencing project profitability through efficient design processes, reducing costly errors via robust QA/QC and standards, and enhancing client satisfaction through high-quality deliverables. Their leadership in technology adoption positions LJA to remain competitive and innovative in the land development market.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Potential to move into higher leadership roles within design operations, such as Director of Design Technology, Chief Design Officer, or a senior Project Management role with a focus on operational excellence.

• Industry Leadership: Opportunity to become a recognized expert in design technology and standards within the civil engineering and land development sectors.

• Mentorship & Training Leadership: Develop and lead comprehensive training programs that shape the technical capabilities of LJA's entire design workforce.

• Strategic Technology Planning: Contribute to the long-term strategic roadmap for design tools and production processes across the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for this role extends beyond technical design into operational strategy and leadership. The emphasis on training and technology leadership suggests opportunities to shape the future of design processes at LJA.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site role, indicating a traditional office setting within one of LJA's nearly 100 locations. The company culture celebrates flexibility, suggesting that while the role is on-site, there might be some local autonomy in how teams manage their daily schedules and collaborative efforts.

Office Location(s): Greenville, SC. This location is part of a growing region, likely offering a dynamic professional environment. Specific office amenities and accessibility details would need to be confirmed directly.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The emphasis on collaboration and LJA's "Top Workplace" status suggests an environment where teamwork is encouraged and supported.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to industry-standard design software (Civil 3D, AutoCAD, BIM/ACC) and potentially advanced hardware will be essential. The role itself is focused on leveraging and improving these tools.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular interaction with design teams, project managers, and potentially other technical leads, fostering knowledge sharing and problem-solving.

Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time hours (approx. 40 hours/week).

• While the role is on-site, LJA's culture of flexibility may allow for some degree of adaptable scheduling within the team's operational needs, particularly in how tasks are managed and completed.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "flexibility" mentioned in the company description, despite the on-site requirement, suggests a focus on results and autonomy rather than strict hour-by-hour monitoring. This could translate to a more empowered work environment.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or recruitment team will likely review applications for basic qualifications, focusing on years of experience, core technical skills (Civil 3D), and relevant industry background.

• Technical Interview: Expect to meet with hiring managers and senior technical staff (e.g., Project Managers, senior engineers) to discuss your experience in detail, assess your technical depth in Civil 3D and related software, and explore your approach to standards and process improvement.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session will likely focus on reviewing your submitted portfolio. Be prepared to walk through specific projects, explain your role, highlight your contributions to design quality, standards, and process efficiency, and discuss the impact of your work.

• Behavioral/Cultural Fit Interview: Assess your interpersonal skills, collaboration style, leadership potential, and alignment with LJA's employee-owner culture, values, and commitment to continuous learning and fun.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior executive to discuss strategic vision and overall fit within the organization.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Impact: Focus on demonstrating how your work directly improved project outcomes, efficiency, or quality. Use metrics where possible (e.g., reduced production time, error reduction).

• Highlight Standards & Process: Include examples of CAD Standards Manuals, process flowcharts, or training materials you've developed. Explain the rationale behind your decisions and the benefits achieved.

• Technical Depth: Be ready to deep-dive into Civil 3D functionalities, BIM workflows, and troubleshooting common technical challenges.

• Storytelling: Structure your portfolio presentations around compelling narratives that showcase problem-solving, leadership, and successful implementation of strategies.

• Company Alignment: Tailor your examples to LJA's land development focus and emphasize how your skills can contribute to their specific operational goals.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for potential scenario-based questions: "How would you address a situation where team members are resisting new CAD standards?" or "Describe a time you implemented a new technology to improve design workflow."

• Practice articulating your solutions clearly, focusing on a structured approach (problem, solution, implementation, results).

• Consider how you would approach developing a training program or updating a CAD standards document for a multi-office organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the role's focus on standards and technology leadership, the portfolio review will likely be a critical stage. Candidates should prepare to not just present past work but to articulate the strategic thinking and operational impact behind it.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• AutoCAD Civil 3D: The core software for this role. Mastery is essential, including advanced modeling techniques, template management, and understanding of its integration with other Autodesk products.

• AutoCAD: Foundational knowledge of AutoCAD is expected.

• Autodesk BIM 360 / Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC): Crucial for understanding and implementing modern BIM workflows, collaboration, and project data management.

• Sheet Set Manager: Expertise in utilizing this tool for efficient management of drawing sets and project documentation.

• Data Shortcuts: Proficiency in using data shortcuts for collaborative Civil 3D projects to manage surfaces, alignments, and profiles.

• XREF Workflows: Advanced understanding of managing external references for seamless collaboration and model integrity.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly listed as primary tools, the role implies a need to track and report on the effectiveness of design processes and technology. Familiarity with tools that can report on usage, performance, or error rates within design software would be beneficial. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this technical design management role, though an understanding of how design data integrates with project management or CRM systems might be a plus. The focus here is on design production automation and workflow efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily centered around Autodesk's Civil Engineering suite. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate deep, hands-on expertise in these specific tools and their application within land development projects.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Employee Ownership: A core value driving a sense of responsibility, accountability, and shared success. Operations professionals are expected to act with the company's best interest at heart.

• Client Focus: Dedication to delivering high-quality services and building strong client relationships through reliable and effective project execution.

• Continuous Learning: A commitment to ongoing professional development, embracing new technologies, and staying ahead of industry best practices.

• Collaboration & Respect: Fostering a supportive environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and teamwork is paramount.

• Fun & Impact: Balancing professional achievement with a positive work environment, celebrating successes, and making a tangible impact on projects and communities.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expect to work closely with project managers, engineers, surveyors, and potentially external stakeholders, requiring strong communication and an ability to integrate design operations into broader project goals.

• Process Review Culture: An environment that encourages constructive feedback and continuous improvement of design workflows and standards.

• Knowledge Sharing: A culture that promotes the sharing of best practices, technical expertise, and lessons learned across teams and offices, particularly regarding design technology and processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "fun and making money" aspect, combined with employee ownership and a "Top Workplace" ranking, suggests a culture that values both high performance and employee well-being, encouraging proactive engagement and a positive team dynamic.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Innovation with Standardization: Implementing new technologies and processes while ensuring consistency and quality across a large, multi-office organization can be challenging.

• Driving Adoption of New Technologies: Overcoming potential resistance to change from long-tenured staff and ensuring effective training and support for new tools and methodologies.

• Maintaining High Standards Across Diverse Teams: Ensuring consistent application of CAD/BIM standards and QA/QC protocols across different teams and project types.

• Staying Ahead of Technological Advancements: Continuously evaluating and integrating evolving design software, BIM standards, and digital construction technologies.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Deepen expertise in design technology management, process optimization, and technical training development.

• Industry Conference & Certification Participation: Opportunities to attend leading industry events (e.g., Autodesk University) and pursue certifications related to Civil 3D, BIM, or project management.

• Operations Mentorship & Leadership: Potential to mentor junior staff and grow into leadership roles that shape LJA's design operations strategy.

• Exposure to Diverse Projects: Working on a wide range of land development projects across different regions provides broad experience and learning opportunities.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a significant opportunity to impact LJA's operational efficiency and technological roadmap. The challenges are substantial but directly tied to opportunities for professional growth and leadership.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "How would you approach developing and implementing new CAD standards across multiple LJA offices?" (Focus on phased rollout, communication, training, and feedback mechanisms).

• "Describe a time you successfully introduced a new design technology or process that significantly improved efficiency or quality. What were the challenges, and how did you overcome them?" (Prepare a STAR method answer highlighting your strategic thinking and execution).

• "How do you ensure consistent QA/QC adherence in a distributed design team, especially when working with legacy systems or different skill levels?" (Discuss audit processes, documentation, training, and clear communication protocols). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you most about LJA's employee-ownership model and its impact on company culture and operations?" (Research ESOPs and LJA's specific values).

• "How do you see your role contributing to LJA's commitment to continuous learning and fun?" (Provide examples of how you foster learning and maintain a positive team dynamic).

• "How would you measure the success of your role as a Design Manager in terms of operational impact and ROI for LJA?" (Think about metrics like reduced errors, faster project cycles, improved staff proficiency, technology adoption rates). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio by project type or by key responsibility (e.g., Standards Development, Technology Implementation, Training Initiatives).

• Quantify Impact: For each example, clearly state the problem, your solution, the tools/processes used, and the quantifiable results (e.g., "Reduced drawing production time by 15%," "Improved accuracy of stormwater calculations by reducing annotation errors by 20%").

• Technology Focus: Highlight your proficiency with Civil 3D, BIM/ACC, and how you leverage these tools for efficiency and quality.

• Process Documentation: Be ready to show examples of standards manuals, workflow diagrams, or training presentations you've created.

• Conciseness: Be prepared to present your most impactful work efficiently, allowing time for discussion and questions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to articulate not just their technical skills but their strategic approach to design operations, process improvement, and leadership within a collaborative, employee-owned environment.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the LJA recruiting portal.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your 15+ years of progressive drafting and design experience, specifically mentioning land development projects and your expertise in AutoCAD Civil 3D, BIM/ACC, and CAD standards development. Quantify achievements wherever possible.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Prepare a strong portfolio that showcases your technical skills, leadership in process improvement, and experience with CAD standards and technology implementation. Include specific examples of design quality, efficiency gains, and training initiatives.

• Prepare for Technical & Behavioral Interviews: Practice articulating your experience with Civil 3D, your approach to QA/QC, and your ability to lead and train teams. Research LJA's culture, values, and commitment to employee ownership.

• Research LJA: Understand their project portfolio, company mission, and "Top Workplace" accolades to tailor your responses and demonstrate genuine interest in contributing to their success.

⚠️ 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.