Design Manager - Southwest Region

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager - Southwest Region

Company: Hensel Phelps

Location: Phoenix, AZ; Tucson, AZ; Albuquerque, NM; Yuma, AZ; Calexico, CA; Douglas, AZ; Los Alamos, NM

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Construction Management / Design Operations

Date Posted: June 05, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversees the end-to-end design process for construction projects across the Southwest Region, ensuring alignment with project objectives, budgets, and schedules.

• Manages and coordinates multidisciplinary design teams, including architects, engineers, trade partners, and BIM technicians, to deliver efficient and constructible designs.

• Implements Hensel Phelps' proprietary design management tools and best practices to drive project success and stakeholder satisfaction.

• Plays a critical role in preconstruction, translating client vision into detailed plans and specifications for client approval, permitting, and construction initiation.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Design Manager," the description and requirements strongly indicate a role within the construction industry, focusing on the management of the design phase of construction projects rather than pure architectural or graphic design. The emphasis on constructability, budgeting, scheduling, and coordination with trade partners places this firmly in the realm of construction operations and preconstruction management. The "Sales and Development" experience mentioned in the initial qualifications is unusual for a Design Manager and may indicate a hybrid role or a misstatement in the original input, but the core responsibilities clearly lean towards project delivery oversight.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the design team, ensuring timely and accurate development of project plans and specifications.

• Implement and utilize Hensel Phelps' design management tools and processes to track progress, identify risks, and ensure adherence to project requirements.

• Facilitate constructability reviews, incorporating safety measures and best practices into the design from inception through completion.

• Ensure the design schedule is fully integrated with and supports the overall project schedule, actively visiting offices to monitor progress and collaborating with design-build trade partners.

• Verify that all contractual requirements, including owner's criteria for cost, schedule, and performance, are embedded within the design documentation.

• Collaborate closely with estimators and project managers to maintain design within budget, managing change and trend estimates throughout the design phase.

• Review and contribute to the writing of bid packages, ensuring clarity and completeness for procurement.

• Maintain meticulous documentation of all design-related meetings, packages, and changes.

• Develop proposal narratives that articulate Hensel Phelps' preconstruction and design management capabilities.

• Manage the LEED certification process for relevant projects, ensuring sustainable design principles are integrated.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities heavily emphasize project lifecycle management, specifically the preconstruction and design phases. The inclusion of "Participate in the development of the design" and "Manage the LEED process" points to a proactive role in shaping the project's technical and sustainability aspects, rather than just administrative oversight. The requirement to "Visit the different offices to see the work being completed" suggests a hands-on, field-oriented approach to design management.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration and Marketing (initial requirement).

• Preferred: Bachelor's degree in Civil or Structural Engineering, Architecture, or Construction Management. Experience:

• Minimum of 15-20 years of sales and development experience in the local market (initial requirement).

• Preferred: Minimum of 5-10 years of experience on large commercial construction projects. Required Skills:

• Proven ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple deadlines effectively.

• Excellent organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail.

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective stakeholder engagement.

• Proficiency in Database Applications, specifically Microsoft Dynamics CRM.

• Demonstrated track record in building sales of construction products and services.

• Established network and connections within the local commercial construction market.

• Ability to coordinate and manage diverse teams, including architects, engineers, and trade partners.

• Understanding of construction project lifecycles, from design through permitting and construction. Preferred Skills:

• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel-based templates.

• Experience with project management and scheduling software such as Primavera.

• Familiarity with design and BIM software from the AutoDesk Suite.

• Deep understanding of construction best practices and constructability principles.

• Experience managing design-build contracts and owner criteria compliance.

• Knowledge of LEED processes and sustainable construction practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The initial "Minimum of 15-20 years of sales and development experience in the local market" alongside a Business Administration/Marketing degree appears to be a significant deviation from a typical Design Manager role. This suggests the role might involve a hybrid function, potentially bridging business development with design oversight, or it might be a miscategorization in the original listing. However, the preferred qualifications and essential duties strongly align with a traditional construction Design Manager role requiring engineering, architecture, or construction management backgrounds and experience in large commercial projects. Candidates should highlight their project lifecycle management, technical coordination, and construction-specific experience.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrable experience in managing complex design processes for large-scale commercial construction projects.

• Case studies showcasing successful integration of design, budget, and schedule management.

• Examples of implemented design management tools or methodologies that improved project efficiency.

• Documentation illustrating effective coordination among architects, engineers, and trade partners.

• Evidence of contributions to constructability reviews and value engineering initiatives. Process Documentation:

• Projects that clearly outline the design development workflow from concept to construction documents.

• Examples of how design changes and trends were managed and documented throughout the project lifecycle.

• Documentation of LEED process management, including submission and approval stages.

• Records of bid package review and contribution to the bidding process.

• Minutes from design coordination meetings demonstrating effective communication and issue resolution.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role in construction, a portfolio should focus on the process of design management and its tangible outcomes. This includes demonstrating how projects were guided through design phases, how challenges were overcome, and how efficiency and cost-effectiveness were achieved through meticulous planning and coordination. Emphasis should be placed on visual representation of project timelines, coordination diagrams, and documentation of key decisions.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Based on the experience level (10+ years), location across multiple high-cost-of-living areas in the Southwest (Phoenix, Tucson, Albuquerque, Los Angeles metro area - Calexico), and the specialized nature of construction design management, a competitive salary range is estimated.

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

This estimate accounts for the senior level of the role, the breadth of responsibilities, and the geographical scope. A Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) may further influence the final compensation based on specific placement within the region.

Benefits:

• Company-paid Medical Insurance

• Life Insurance

• Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance

• Long-Term Disability Insurance

• 401(K) Retirement Plan with company match potential

• Health Savings Account (HSA) (location dependent)

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

• Employee-paid Vision Insurance

• Employee-paid Dental Insurance

• Paid Time Off (PTO) starting upon hire

• Annual Bonus Plan (subject to company and employee performance)

• Company cell phone or allowance

• Company vehicle or vehicle allowance

• Potential Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are typically 40 hours per week. However, given the nature of construction projects, extended hours, weekend work, and travel may be required to meet project deadlines and site demands. The role is inherently on-site.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on typical compensation for Design Managers or Senior Project Managers with extensive experience in the construction industry in major metropolitan areas like Phoenix, Tucson, and Albuquerque. Compensation can vary significantly based on the specific project, company performance, and the candidate's negotiation. The inclusion of a COLA is a significant benefit that needs to be factored into location-specific considerations.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Commercial Construction & Building Development. Hensel Phelps is a major player, ranked highly in aviation and general contracting. They focus on building development, construction, and facility services across diverse sectors like aviation, government, commercial, transportation, critical facilities, and healthcare.

Company Size: Large. As one of the largest employee-owned general contractors in the country, Hensel Phelps has a significant workforce and operational footprint. This size implies robust processes, established infrastructure, and opportunities for career advancement.

Founded: 1937. With a long history, Hensel Phelps has a deep-rooted culture and a proven track record in the industry, suggesting stability and a wealth of accumulated knowledge.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager typically reports to a Project Manager, Estimator-in-Charge, or Operations Manager, indicating integration within the broader project delivery team.

• The role involves managing a matrixed team of architects, engineers, BIM technicians, and trade partners, requiring strong leadership and coordination skills across various disciplines.

• Collaboration is key, with frequent interaction with estimating, preconstruction, field operations, and client representatives. Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making is implied through the use of design management tools, budget tracking, and schedule adherence.

• Emphasis on best practices and continuous improvement, as evidenced by the "criteria compliance log" and "lessons learned" development.

• A structured approach to design reviews, including constructability and third-party/peer reviews, ensures quality and risk mitigation.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Hensel Phelps' focus on "EXCELLENCE," "Ownership," "Integrity," "Builder," "Diversity," and "Community" suggests a culture that values high performance, accountability, craftsmanship, inclusivity, and social responsibility. The employee-owned structure likely fosters a strong sense of ownership and commitment among its staff.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This Design Manager position is a senior-level role, typically considered mid-to-late career within the construction operations track. It requires a significant depth of experience in managing complex processes, leading teams, and making critical decisions that impact project outcomes.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager reports to project leadership (Project Manager, Estimator-in-Charge, or Operations Manager), indicating a direct contribution to project execution and success. They, in turn, manage the external design consultants and internal BIM/design support staff.

Operations Impact: This role has a profound impact on project success by ensuring designs are safe, cost-effective, schedule-compliant, and meet owner requirements. Effective design management directly influences profitability, client satisfaction, and the company's reputation for quality construction.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Progression to Project Executive, Director of Preconstruction, or other senior leadership roles within Hensel Phelps.

• Specialization: Deepening expertise in specific construction sectors (e.g., aviation, critical facilities) or technical areas (e.g., advanced BIM, sustainable design).

• Mentorship: Opportunity to mentor junior design managers, project engineers, and other team members, developing leadership capabilities.

• Further Education/Certifications: Pursuing advanced certifications in construction management, LEED, or specific software relevant to design and project delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for a Design Manager in construction is robust. Moving from managing design to overseeing entire projects or preconstruction efforts is a natural progression. The emphasis on employee ownership also suggests opportunities for long-term career growth and potential equity participation.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is primarily office-based, supporting on-site construction projects. The description mentions visiting "different offices" and operating computers and standard office machinery. The environment is expected to be professional and collaborative.

Office Location(s): The role covers a broad Southwest region, with primary locations including Phoenix, Tucson, Albuquerque, Yuma, Calexico, Douglas, and Los Alamos. This implies significant travel within the region to project sites and potentially to various company offices.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will involve standard office amenities, including computer workstations and access to necessary software.

• Collaboration is a key aspect, with frequent interaction with project teams, engineers, architects, and trade partners, likely involving meeting rooms and shared project spaces.

• Access to project documentation, BIM models, and relevant construction plans will be integral to the daily workflow. Work Schedule:

• While the standard is 40 hours per week, the demands of construction project deadlines mean that extended hours, weekend work, and travel are frequently required. Flexibility and the ability to adapt to project needs are essential.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Light Work" classification and description of physical demands are standard for office-based roles but do not fully capture the potential for site visits. Candidates should be prepared for occasional travel to active construction sites, which may involve navigating uneven terrain and exposure to elements, even if the primary role is office-centric.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Typically involves an HR or recruiter review of the application and resume, focusing on aligning qualifications with the job description.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the direct manager (likely a Senior Project Manager or Operations Director) to assess technical skills, experience, and fit with the team's operational needs. Expect questions related to design management, constructability, scheduling, and budget control.

• Team/Cross-functional Interviews: Meetings with key stakeholders, such as estimators, project engineers, or other design managers, to evaluate collaboration style and ability to integrate into the existing team structure.

• Potential Case Study/Presentation: Candidates may be asked to present a past project they managed, detailing their role in the design process, challenges overcome, and outcomes achieved, with a focus on metrics and efficiency.

• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership to discuss overall fit with the company's culture, values, and strategic direction.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Process & Impact: Focus on demonstrating your methodology for managing the design phase, not just the final output. Use flowcharts or diagrams to illustrate your process.

• Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, present metrics related to cost savings from constructability reviews, schedule adherence improvements, reduction in RFIs (Requests for Information), or successful LEED certifications.

• Showcase Collaboration: Include examples of how you effectively communicated and collaborated with diverse teams (architects, engineers, trades, clients), perhaps with anonymized email excerpts or meeting summaries.

• Tailor to Hensel Phelps: Research Hensel Phelps' current projects and values. Frame your experience in a way that aligns with their stated mission and approach to construction.

• Technical Proficiency: Clearly articulate your experience with relevant software (AutoDesk Suite, Primavera, MS Dynamics CRM, MS Office Suite) and how you leveraged them for design management.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss hypothetical scenarios: "How would you handle a situation where the design is significantly over budget?" or "Describe your process for ensuring safety is integrated into every design."

• Practice articulating complex technical concepts clearly and concisely, as if explaining them to a non-technical stakeholder.

• Prepare specific examples from your experience that demonstrate problem-solving skills, leadership, and strategic thinking in design management.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the emphasis on "sales and development experience" in the initial requirements, interviewers might probe into how candidates have used their design management expertise to support business development efforts or client acquisition, even if it's not the primary focus of the role. Be ready to bridge this potential gap by highlighting how strong design management contributes to winning bids and ensuring client satisfaction.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Microsoft Dynamics CRM: Essential for managing client relationships, sales pipelines, and potentially tracking preconstruction activities and leads.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Strong proficiency required, especially in Excel for budgeting, tracking, and reporting; Word for documentation and proposals; PowerPoint for presentations.

• AutoDesk Suite: Familiarity with design software such as AutoCAD, Revit, and Navisworks is crucial for understanding and coordinating BIM models and design deliverables.

• Primavera (P6): Expected for advanced project scheduling, resource allocation, and timeline management, particularly for large-scale projects.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Advanced Excel skills for complex data analysis and custom reporting.

• Potential use of business intelligence tools integrated with CRM or project management software for performance dashboards.

• Reporting on design progress, budget status, schedule adherence, and risk assessments. CRM & Automation:

• Microsoft Dynamics CRM: As mentioned, a primary tool for sales and client management. Automation features within CRM may be leveraged for lead nurturing or workflow management.

• Project Management Software: Tools like Procore, Autodesk Construction Cloud, or similar platforms, often used for document management, RFI tracking, submittals, and field collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of Microsoft Dynamics CRM, Primavera, and the AutoDesk Suite indicates a strong emphasis on integrated technology for managing projects. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with these specific platforms and how they've used them to enhance design management processes.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Ownership: Fostering a sense of personal responsibility for project success, from design through completion.

• Integrity: Upholding ethical standards in all dealings with clients, trade partners, and team members.

• Builder: A deep commitment to craftsmanship, quality construction, and hands-on problem-solving.

• Diversity: Valuing and promoting an inclusive environment that embraces varied perspectives and backgrounds.

• Community: Contributing positively to the communities where projects are built.

• Excellence: A relentless pursuit of high performance and superior outcomes in all aspects of work.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Design Managers are expected to work seamlessly with estimating, preconstruction, field operations, and executive leadership to ensure a unified approach to project delivery.

• Proactive Communication: Emphasis on open, transparent, and frequent communication to anticipate and resolve issues before they impact the project.

• Data-Driven Discussions: Utilizing project data, schedules, budgets, and design documentation to inform discussions and drive consensus.

• Constructive Feedback: A culture that encourages constructive feedback and continuous improvement, particularly through design reviews and lessons learned sessions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's core values are deeply embedded in its operations. Candidates should be prepared to discuss how their personal values and work style align with these principles, providing specific examples of how they've demonstrated ownership, integrity, and a builder's mindset in previous roles.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Competing Priorities: Juggling the demands of budget, schedule, quality, safety, and owner requirements simultaneously.

• Managing Diverse Stakeholders: Effectively coordinating the needs and expectations of architects, engineers, trade partners, clients, and internal teams.

• Navigating Design Changes: Implementing design modifications efficiently while minimizing cost and schedule impacts.

• Regional Scope & Travel: Managing projects across a wide geographic area requires significant travel and adaptation to different site conditions and local regulations.

• Integration of New Technologies: Staying abreast of and implementing new design and construction technologies (e.g., advanced BIM, AI in design) to maintain a competitive edge.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Project Management: Opportunities to lead larger, more complex projects and gain experience in diverse construction sectors.

• Leadership Training: Development programs focused on strategic decision-making, team leadership, and executive communication.

• Technical Skill Enhancement: Training in advanced BIM, construction simulation, and data analytics tools.

• Industry Certifications: Support for obtaining or maintaining certifications like PMP, LEED AP, or specialized engineering/architecture credentials.

• Mentorship Programs: Access to experienced leaders within Hensel Phelps for guidance and career development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenge of managing a broad Southwest region means candidates must demonstrate strong logistical skills and adaptability. Growth opportunities are substantial, given Hensel Phelps' size and commitment to internal development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for managing a design team on a large commercial project. What tools and methodologies do you employ?" (Focus on process, tools like BIM/Primavera, and stakeholder coordination).

• "How do you ensure a design stays within budget while meeting client expectations and incorporating best practices?" (Discuss cost control, value engineering, trend management).

• "Walk me through a time you encountered a significant constructability issue during the design phase. How did you address it, and what was the outcome?" (Showcase problem-solving, technical knowledge, and collaboration).

• "How do you integrate safety considerations into the design process from the outset?" (Emphasize proactive safety planning and risk mitigation). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracts you to Hensel Phelps, and how do you see your values aligning with ours?" (Research company values and connect them to your experience).

• "Describe your experience working in a team-oriented environment. How do you foster collaboration among diverse disciplines?" (Highlight teamwork and communication skills).

• "How do you stay current with industry trends and new technologies in construction design and management?" (Showcase continuous learning and adaptability). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your presentation logically, perhaps chronologically through a project lifecycle or thematically by key responsibilities (e.g., Budget Management, Schedule Adherence, Stakeholder Coordination).

• Visuals: Use high-quality visuals – project photos, renderings, BIM model excerpts (if permissible), schedule timelines, and charts illustrating metrics.

• Narrative: Tell a compelling story for each project, highlighting your specific contributions, the challenges faced, and the successful outcomes. Focus on the "why" and "how" behind your decisions.

• Conciseness: Be mindful of time. Prepare a clear, concise presentation that hits the key points without getting bogged down in excessive detail.

• Q&A Readiness: Anticipate questions about your decision-making, the impact of your work, and your approach to specific challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: Be prepared to discuss how your "sales and development" experience, if applicable, has informed your approach to design management, particularly in client engagement or proposal development. Frame it as an advantage in understanding client needs and presenting solutions effectively.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Hensel Phelps careers portal.

• Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume to highlight experience in construction design management, preconstruction, large commercial projects, and proficiency with relevant software (Microsoft Dynamics CRM, Primavera, AutoDesk Suite). Quantify achievements whenever possible.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a portfolio showcasing your most relevant design management projects. Focus on demonstrating process, problem-solving, collaboration, and quantifiable results. Be ready to present key case studies.

• Research Hensel Phelps: Thoroughly review the company's website, recent projects, and core values. Understand their approach to construction and identify how your skills and experience align with their culture and needs.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare answers to common interview questions, focusing on behavioral examples and strategic thinking related to design management, budget control, scheduling, and team leadership. Practice articulating your portfolio contributions clearly and concisely.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with Hensel Phelps before making application decisions. Pay close attention to the unique blend of design management and potential sales/development experience requirements.