Design Manager - Water

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager - Water

Company: Wharton-Smith

Location: Jacksonville, Florida, United States

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Preconstruction / Design Management (Water & Wastewater Infrastructure)

Date Posted: September 03, 2026

Experience Level: 7+ Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead strategic planning, budgeting, and risk analysis for municipal water and wastewater projects during the pursuit and preconstruction phases.

• Drive constructability reviews and cost development in close collaboration with estimating and operations teams.

• Foster strong relationships with municipal owners and engineers, ensuring alignment on project objectives and delivery.

• Facilitate seamless project transitions from design into the construction execution phase by partnering with operations.

• Support proposal development and client presentations, showcasing Wharton-Smith's capabilities in collaborative delivery models.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a strategic preconstruction and collaborative delivery function, bridging the gap between design and operations. It requires a candidate transitioning from a traditional project management role to focus on early-stage project strategy and client engagement.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Support the development of compelling proposals, RFQs, and RFP responses for municipal water and wastewater infrastructure projects.

• Actively participate in client interviews and formal presentations to secure new business opportunities.

• Cultivate and maintain robust relationships with municipal owners, engineering firms, and other key stakeholders.

• Lead effective coordination between design/engineering teams and estimating departments throughout the preconstruction lifecycle.

• Conduct thorough constructability reviews of drawings, geotechnical reports, and project specifications to identify potential issues and efficiencies.

• Proactively identify and implement strategies to mitigate project risks during the early design and planning stages.

• Provide structured, actionable, and value-driven constructability comments and recommendations.

• Solicit, coordinate, and integrate input from subcontractors and suppliers into project planning and cost development.

• Develop and refine Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) budgets and comprehensive bid packages.

• Create and maintain preconstruction schedules using P6, ensuring alignment with operational teams for effective construction planning.

• Lead milestone meetings and stakeholder coordination sessions to ensure project alignment and progress.

• Track and manage preconstruction financials, including both internal and external project costs.

• Drive innovation and implement value engineering solutions to optimize project costs while meeting objectives.

• Ensure a thorough understanding and strict compliance with all municipal funding and regulatory requirements.

• Partner closely with the operations team to guarantee a smooth and efficient handover from preconstruction to active construction.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong emphasis on early contractor involvement (ECI) and collaborative delivery models like CMAR and Progressive Design-Build, requiring a candidate adept at influencing design and managing risk before construction begins.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related technical field is required.

• Equivalent combinations of relevant education and extensive experience will be considered.

• Ongoing professional development in advanced estimating techniques, collaborative delivery methodologies, and project controls is highly encouraged. Experience:

• A minimum of 7 years of dedicated experience in municipal water and wastewater construction or design is mandatory.

• Proven track record of successfully managing municipal water/wastewater projects as a Project Manager.

• Demonstrated experience in developing or significantly supporting GMP pricing and proposal development.

• A strong history of effective collaboration with owners, engineers, and internal operations teams. Required Skills:

• In-depth understanding of municipal water and wastewater construction practices and standards.

• Experience with CMAR (Construction Manager at Risk), Progressive Design-Build, or other collaborative delivery models.

• Proficient ability to identify scope gaps, potential cost exposures, and propose mitigation strategies.

• Strong proficiency in scheduling software, with Primavera P6 (P6) being strongly preferred.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, essential for client and stakeholder interaction. Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with advanced cost management systems and their integration with scheduling.

• Experience in value engineering workshops and proposing innovative solutions.

• Knowledge of municipal procurement processes and funding mechanisms.

• Ability to interpret complex engineering drawings and specifications.

• Demonstrated leadership capabilities in cross-functional team environments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience requirements emphasize a deep dive into municipal water/wastewater projects, with a specific need for experience in collaborative delivery models and GMP development, indicating a focus on large-scale, complex infrastructure projects.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase at least 2-3 detailed case studies of municipal water/wastewater projects managed from pursuit through preconstruction, highlighting your specific contributions.

• For each case study, clearly articulate the project's scope, challenges, your role in the GMP development, risk identification/mitigation, and constructability improvements.

• Demonstrate your ability to manage project schedules and budgets, with examples of P6 schedules and cost reports if available.

• Include examples of collaborative documents or processes you developed or implemented to enhance stakeholder engagement and project alignment.

• Quantify achievements whenever possible, such as cost savings through value engineering or risk reduction percentages. Process Documentation:

• Provide examples of preconstruction checklists or process flows you have utilized or developed for constructability reviews, risk assessment, or GMP development.

• Illustrate your approach to coordinating design disciplines and integrating subcontractor input into the preconstruction process.

• Include documentation or descriptions of how you have tracked preconstruction financials and ensured compliance with municipal requirements.

• Prepare to discuss your methodology for ensuring a seamless transition of project information and planning from preconstruction to the operations team.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio demonstrating end-to-end preconstruction management for water/wastewater projects, with a focus on collaborative delivery, risk management, and cost control, will be critical for this role. Candidates should be prepared to present detailed case studies.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Based on industry benchmarks for Design Managers with 7+ years of experience in the Jacksonville, Florida area, focusing on municipal infrastructure projects, the estimated salary range for this position is $100,000 - $140,000 per year. This estimate considers the specialized nature of water/wastewater projects, the required experience level, and the strategic importance of the preconstruction phase.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Retirement savings plan with company match (e.g., 401(k)).

• Paid time off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

• Opportunities for professional development, certifications, and continuing education.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses or profit sharing.

• Travel expense reimbursement for work-related travel.

• Access to company-provided resources and technology for project management and scheduling. Working Hours:

• Standard work schedule is Monday through Friday, approximately 40 hours per week.

• Hybrid work arrangement is available, allowing for a mix of remote work and office presence.

• Flexibility is expected to meet project deadlines, client needs, and attend critical meetings, potentially requiring extended or evening hours periodically.

• Up to 25% travel is anticipated for client meetings, engineer coordination, site visits, and travel to corporate or regional offices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on market data for similar roles in the Jacksonville, FL region, considering the specialized industry and experience level. Actual compensation will be determined by the hiring team based on candidate qualifications, experience, and specific project needs.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Wharton-Smith operates within the heavy civil construction sector, with a significant specialization in municipal water and wastewater infrastructure. This industry demands rigorous adherence to quality, safety, and regulatory compliance, often involving complex public sector projects.

Company Size: Wharton-Smith is a medium to large-sized construction firm. This size typically allows for a structured organizational framework with dedicated departments (e.g., estimating, operations, preconstruction) while maintaining a degree of agility and direct access to leadership. For operations professionals, this means opportunities for specialized roles and clear career paths, but also the need to navigate established processes.

Founded: Wharton-Smith was founded in 1974. With decades of experience, the company has established a strong reputation and a deep understanding of the construction market, particularly in Florida. This longevity suggests a stable work environment, established client relationships, and a wealth of institutional knowledge.

Team Structure:

• The Preconstruction/Design Management team is likely composed of experienced professionals specializing in early project phases, including estimators, schedulers, and potentially design coordinators. This team works closely with dedicated estimating and operations groups.

• Reporting structure likely involves a direct report to a VP of Preconstruction or a similar senior leadership role within the company's project development arm.

• Cross-functional collaboration is paramount, with constant interaction required between Preconstruction, Estimating, Operations, Business Development, and potentially Legal/Contracts departments. Methodology:

• Data analysis and insights are crucial for accurate GMP development, risk assessment, and value engineering proposals. This involves leveraging historical project data, market intelligence, and detailed cost analysis.

• Workflow planning and optimization are central to the preconstruction process, ensuring efficient development of proposals, budgets, and schedules that align with project requirements and client expectations.

• Automation and efficiency practices are likely employed through specialized software for scheduling (P6), cost management, and potentially BIM integration to streamline processes and enhance accuracy.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Wharton-Smith's focus on water and wastewater infrastructure implies a culture that values technical expertise, long-term client relationships, and a commitment to public service through essential infrastructure development. The hybrid work model suggests a modern approach to work-life balance within a traditional industry.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This Design Manager role represents a mid-to-senior level position within the preconstruction and project delivery functions. It's a transition from direct project execution to a strategic, client-facing role focused on securing and shaping projects before construction begins. It requires a blend of technical construction knowledge and business development acumen.

Reporting Structure: The role likely reports to a senior leader within the preconstruction or business development department, such as a Vice President of Preconstruction or Director of Estimating. This senior leadership will provide strategic direction, mentorship, and oversight for large-scale pursuits. Direct collaboration will occur with project executives, estimating managers, and operations leaders.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager has a significant impact on the company's success by:

• Directly influencing the win rate of proposals and RFPs through strategic planning and client engagement.

• Ensuring the profitability and risk mitigation of projects by developing accurate GMPs and identifying constructability issues early.

• Laying the groundwork for efficient and successful project execution by aligning design with operational capabilities.

• Building and maintaining key relationships with municipal clients and engineering partners, which are vital for repeat business and long-term growth in the public sector. Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Potential to deepen expertise in collaborative delivery methods (CMAR, Design-Build), advanced risk management, and complex contract negotiation.

• Leadership Development: Progression to roles such as Director of Preconstruction, VP of Business Development, or an Executive Project Director overseeing multiple large-scale infrastructure programs.

• Specialization: Further specialization in specific types of water/wastewater projects (e.g., treatment plants, distribution systems, large diameter pipelines) or advanced delivery models.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a strategic pivot within a construction career, focusing on the front-end of project development. Growth pathways are clearly defined towards senior leadership in preconstruction or business development, emphasizing strategic influence and client relationship management.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is described as "hybrid," suggesting a blend of remote work and in-office presence at the Jacksonville, Florida location. This implies a modern office environment that supports collaborative work, client meetings, and focused individual tasks. The company likely provides necessary office infrastructure, meeting rooms, and potentially shared workspaces.

Office Location(s): The primary work location is Jacksonville, Florida. This area is a significant hub for infrastructure development in Florida, providing ample opportunities for water and wastewater projects. The hybrid nature means candidates should be within reasonable commuting distance of a Wharton-Smith office in the Jacksonville area.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The hybrid model and the nature of preconstruction work necessitate strong digital collaboration tools and dedicated meeting spaces for team syncs, client presentations, and design reviews.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to industry-standard software for scheduling (P6), cost management, document control, and potentially BIM/3D modeling will be provided. The role requires proficiency in leveraging these tools effectively.

• Operations Team Interaction: Regular interaction with estimating teams, operations managers, project executives, and potentially site personnel will occur, both in person and virtually, to ensure seamless project transitions and information flow.

Work Schedule: The standard schedule is Monday-Friday, with flexibility required for project deadlines. The hybrid arrangement allows for remote work days, balancing personal needs with collaborative requirements and client engagements that may necessitate being in the office or on-site.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work environment in Jacksonville offers a balance between the demands of a complex, client-facing role and the flexibility afforded by modern work arrangements. Candidates should be comfortable with both independent remote work and in-person collaboration.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A phone or video call with an HR representative or recruiter to assess basic qualifications, experience alignment, and cultural fit.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A detailed discussion with the hiring manager (likely a VP of Preconstruction or similar) focusing on your experience in water/wastewater projects, preconstruction methodologies, client relationship management, and strategic thinking. Be prepared to discuss your approach to GMP development and risk mitigation.

• Team/Stakeholder Interviews: Meetings with key team members, including estimating leads, operations managers, and potentially project executives. This stage assesses your collaborative style and ability to work effectively across departments. You may be asked to present a specific case study from your portfolio.

• Final Interview: Potentially a final interview with senior leadership to discuss your overall fit with the company's strategic goals and long-term vision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure for Impact: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or delivery model. For each project, clearly outline the challenge, your role, the actions taken, and the quantifiable results (e.g., cost savings, risk reduction, schedule improvements).

• Focus on Preconstruction: Emphasize your contributions to the pursuit, GMP development, constructability reviews, and risk analysis. Highlight your ability to collaborate with owners and engineers.

• Demonstrate P6 Proficiency: If possible, include examples of preconstruction schedules managed in P6, showcasing your ability to plan and communicate timelines effectively.

• Tailor to Wharton-Smith: Research Wharton-Smith's recent projects and values. Frame your experience and portfolio examples to align with their focus on municipal water/wastewater and collaborative delivery.

Challenge Preparation:

• Case Study Presentation: Be prepared to present one or two key projects from your portfolio in detail. Focus on your strategic contributions to the preconstruction phase, including how you influenced design, managed costs, and mitigated risks.

• Scenario-Based Questions: Anticipate questions about how you would handle specific preconstruction challenges, such as a major scope gap discovery, a difficult client negotiation, or a tight proposal deadline.

• Collaborative Delivery Scenarios: Be ready to discuss your experience and philosophy regarding CMAR and Progressive Design-Build, including how you foster collaboration and manage risk in these models.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely involve a combination of behavioral and technical questions, with a strong emphasis on your ability to present your experience effectively through portfolio case studies, particularly concerning preconstruction strategy and collaborative project delivery.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Primavera P6 (P6): Essential for developing and managing complex preconstruction and project schedules. Proficiency is highly preferred.

• Cost Management Software: Wharton-Smith likely uses specific software for estimating and cost control; candidates should be adaptable to learning new systems. Experience with industry-standard estimating platforms is beneficial.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Advanced proficiency in Excel (for financial analysis, budgeting), Word (for proposals, reports), and PowerPoint (for presentations) is critical.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Estimating Software: Tools used for detailed quantity take-offs and cost compilation.

• Reporting Tools: Internal systems for generating project status reports, financial summaries, and risk assessments.

• Dashboarding Tools: Potential use of tools for visualizing key preconstruction metrics and project health.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM System: Used for managing client relationships, tracking pursuits, and logging interactions with owners and engineers.

• Document Management Systems: Platforms for organizing and sharing project documents, drawings, and specifications.

• Collaboration Platforms: Tools like Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, or similar for facilitating communication and document sharing in a hybrid environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with Primavera P6 is a key technical requirement. Candidates should also demonstrate adaptability to learn and utilize various cost management, CRM, and collaboration software common in the construction industry.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity & Trust: Operating with honesty and transparency in all dealings with clients, partners, and internal teams, especially crucial in public sector projects.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering an environment where design, estimating, and operations teams work cohesively towards shared project goals, valuing diverse perspectives.

• Excellence & Quality: A commitment to delivering high-quality infrastructure that meets or exceeds client expectations and serves communities effectively.

• Innovation & Efficiency: Encouraging the exploration of new ideas, value engineering, and process improvements to optimize project outcomes and delivery.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role demands a highly collaborative approach, actively engaging with estimating, operations, and business development to ensure all perspectives are considered from the earliest stages of a project. Regular inter-departmental meetings and shared documentation are key.

• Process Review & Feedback: A culture that encourages open feedback loops, where constructability comments, budget proposals, and schedule updates are reviewed critically and collaboratively to refine project plans.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging team members to share best practices, lessons learned from previous projects, and insights into new technologies or methodologies to continuously improve preconstruction processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Wharton-Smith likely values a strong work ethic, a commitment to client satisfaction, and a collaborative spirit. Candidates who can demonstrate experience working effectively in cross-functional teams and a proactive approach to problem-solving will be a strong fit.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Complex Municipal Requirements: Understanding and adhering to diverse and often stringent municipal regulations, funding mechanisms, and procurement processes can be challenging.

• Balancing Design, Cost, and Schedule: Effectively integrating competing priorities of design innovation, budget constraints, and aggressive timelines requires strong analytical and negotiation skills.

• Stakeholder Alignment: Ensuring all parties (owner, engineers, subcontractors, internal teams) are aligned on project scope, budget, and schedule can be complex, especially in early pursuit phases.

• Transitioning to Construction: Ensuring a seamless handover of detailed project plans and client expectations to the operations team, minimizing information gaps and potential conflicts.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Delivery Models: Deepening expertise in collaborative construction methods like CMAR and Progressive Design-Build through training and hands-on project experience.

• Technical Specialization: Developing deeper knowledge in specific water/wastewater treatment processes, technologies, or infrastructure types.

• Leadership Training: Opportunities for leadership development programs focused on strategic planning, client management, and team leadership within the construction context.

• Industry Certifications: Support for obtaining relevant certifications in project management, estimating, or construction law.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities to tackle complex infrastructure challenges and grow within a specialized sector. The company's investment in learning and development suggests a commitment to nurturing talent and promoting career advancement within its ranks.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to developing a GMP for a large municipal water treatment plant project. What are the key components and potential pitfalls?" (Focus on your process for cost estimation, risk assessment, and stakeholder input.)

• "How do you ensure effective collaboration between design engineers, estimators, and operations teams during the preconstruction phase, especially in a hybrid work environment?" (Highlight your communication strategies, meeting facilitation, and use of collaboration tools.)

• "Walk me through a situation where you identified a significant constructability issue or scope gap early in the design process. What steps did you take, and what was the outcome?" (Use a STAR method approach, focusing on your analytical skills, problem-solving, and impact.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Wharton-Smith's work in the municipal water and wastewater sector, and why are you interested in this specific role?" (Research recent projects and demonstrate genuine interest.)

• "How do you align with our company values of integrity, collaboration, and excellence in your daily work?" (Provide specific examples of how you embody these values.)

• "How do you measure the success of your preconstruction efforts beyond just winning the bid?" (Discuss profitability, risk mitigation, and smooth transition to operations.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Concise Storytelling: For each portfolio example, focus on the "problem, solution, result" narrative. Clearly articulate the challenge, your specific actions, and the quantifiable impact on the project.

• Data-Driven Impact: When presenting metrics (cost savings, schedule improvements, risk reduction), be prepared to explain the data sources and methodology.

• Visual Aids: Use clear, professional slides or documents. For P6 schedules, highlight key milestones and your role in their development. For cost breakdowns, focus on how you contributed to the GMP.

• Interactive Discussion: Be ready to answer in-depth questions about your role, decisions, and lessons learned. Treat it as a collaborative discussion rather than a monologue.

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare to showcase your strategic thinking, collaborative capabilities, and technical expertise through specific project examples. Demonstrating a deep understanding of the municipal water/wastewater sector and collaborative delivery models will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager - Water position:

• Submit your application through the Wharton-Smith careers portal via the provided link.

• Tailor your resume: Highlight your experience in municipal water/wastewater projects, preconstruction, GMP development, P6 scheduling, and collaborative delivery models (CMAR, Design-Build). Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare your portfolio: Curate 2-3 strong case studies that exemplify your contributions to project pursuit, GMP development, constructability reviews, and risk management. Be ready to present these with a focus on quantifiable results and your strategic role.

• Research Wharton-Smith: Understand their company history, values, recent projects (especially in water/wastewater), and their approach to client relationships and project delivery.

• Practice your interview responses: Prepare for behavioral and situational questions, focusing on your preconstruction experience and collaborative skills. Rehearse your portfolio presentation to ensure clarity and impact.

⚠️ 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.

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