Electrical Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Electrical Design Manager

Company: Gaylor Electric

Location: Nashville, Indiana, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Engineering / Construction Operations

Date Posted: 2026-07-28T04:00:00

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead a team of Design Engineers and Virtual Designers in the preconstruction phases of large-scale electrical construction projects.

• Ensure timely, detailed coordination and installation designs for electrical systems, adhering to PDI standards and best practices through a Virtual Design Platform.

• Collaborate with project teams and customers to deliver innovative, cost-effective electrical solutions that align with Gaylor Electric's standards.

• Oversee the technical aspects of electrical projects, including performing and reviewing critical calculations for load, voltage drop, short circuit, and lighting.

• Uphold Gaylor Electric's core values of integrity, accountability, teamwork, innovation, and growth within the operations and engineering teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned at a senior management level within the engineering and design operations of a large electrical contractor. The focus is on leading teams, managing complex technical projects, and ensuring operational efficiency and quality in design and installation. The emphasis on "Virtual Design Platform" and specific Autodesk tools indicates a strong need for proficiency in modern BIM and construction management software.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Project Leadership: Lead multiple electrical construction projects through their preconstruction phases, effectively managing Design Engineers and Virtual Design team members to ensure project milestones are met.

• Code Compliance & Standards: Maintain up-to-date knowledge of National Electrical Code (NEC), IBC, IECC, and life safety codes, ensuring all designs and installation plans comply with current best practices and jurisdictional requirements.

• Technical Calculations & Analysis: Perform, review, and validate critical technical calculations, including electrical load calculations, voltage drop analysis, short circuit studies, and lighting designs, to ensure system performance and safety.

• Team Management & Development: Supervise, mentor, and develop a team of Design Engineers and Virtual Designers, overseeing the accurate development and maintenance of project plans, schedules, and budgets, and managing onboarding and training for new hires.

• Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement: Work closely with Architects, Engineers, MEP subcontractors, clients, and project personnel, attending key project meetings to foster strong working relationships and ensure seamless project execution.

• Contract & Scope Review: Review legal contracts, BIM Execution Plans, scopes of work, specifications, and design plans to identify opportunities for cost-effective, compliant, and value-engineered solutions.

• Drawing & Documentation Development: Create and oversee the creation of detailed coordination and installation drawings, adhering strictly to Gaylor Electric's Best Practices and standards for all electrical system components.

• Design & Coordination Oversight: Provide essential documents and coordination for Temporary Power, Distribution, Underground, Structure, Site, Common Areas, Detailed Units Wiring, Value Engineering proposals, peer reviews, and on-site job coordination efforts.

• Financial & Quality Oversight: Ensure the financial and quality compliance and performance of the electrical design operations within the assigned region, driving efficiency and profitability.

• Innovation & Problem Solving: Drive the implementation of innovative and cost-effective solutions, leveraging virtual design platforms to address project challenges and enhance overall project delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical leadership, team management, and project oversight within the context of electrical construction. Key areas of focus include BIM/VDC proficiency, code compliance, financial acumen related to project design, and strong collaboration skills across various project stakeholders. The mention of managing projects up to $400 million signifies the scale and complexity expected.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High school graduate, holder of G.E.D., or equivalent studies/experience.

• Graduate of a Construction Management or Construction Technology program is preferred. Experience:

• 10+ years of relevant electrical experience, with a strong preference for candidates who have completed the Virtual Designer career development plan.

• Proven experience as a supervisor with an Electrical Contractor is highly preferred.

• Demonstrated ability to lead electrical design discussions and evaluate Plans and Specs projects.

• Experience in recommending cost savings and Value Engineering solutions for bid-build projects. Required Skills:

• Revit Proficiency: Revit Certification or 5+ years of relevant professional experience in electrical design.

• Technical Software Proficiency: Demonstrated expertise with engineering and virtual design software platforms, including Autodesk Construction Cloud, Collaborate Pro, Autodesk Build, Autodesk Docs, AutoCAD, Revit, Navisworks, and BIM 360 Glue.

• Code Knowledge: Proven knowledge of the National Electrical Code (NEC) and familiarity with the International Building Code (IBC), International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), and life safety codes.

• Project Leadership & Management: Strong organizational, management, and leadership skills to oversee multiple projects and teams effectively.

• Calculation Expertise: Ability to perform and review electrical load, voltage drop, short circuit, and lighting calculations.

• Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills for effective stakeholder engagement and team coordination.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in Construction Management.

• Experience in Virtual Design and construction (VDC) methodologies.

• Familiarity with Design Build, Plans and Specs, and Design Assist contract types.

• Experience in sectors such as Mission Critical, Warehouse Distribution, Healthcare, Manufacturing, Multifamily, and Hospitality.

• Ability to evaluate and propose value engineering solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize a deep technical background in electrical design and a strong command of BIM/VDC software. The experience requirement of 10+ years, coupled with preferred supervisory and specific software proficiencies, positions this as a senior role. The preference for graduates of construction management programs suggests a desire for candidates with formal training in project execution.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Project Examples: Showcase a portfolio demonstrating successful electrical design and coordination projects, with a focus on complexity and scale (e.g., projects valued from $1 million to $400 million).

• BIM/VDC Deliverables: Include examples of BIM coordination drawings, installation drawings, and virtual design models that highlight effective clash detection and workflow optimization.

• Technical Calculation Samples: Present samples of completed technical calculations (load, voltage drop, short circuit, lighting) demonstrating accuracy and adherence to standards.

• Value Engineering Proposals: Showcase instances where you identified and proposed cost-saving or value-engineering solutions for electrical systems, demonstrating ROI impact.

• Process Documentation Samples: If available, include examples of process documentation, workflow diagrams, or best practice guides you have developed or contributed to.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Demonstrations of how you have designed or optimized electrical design workflows, from initial coordination to final installation drawings, leveraging virtual design platforms.

• System Implementation & Automation: Evidence of implementing new design processes, software tools, or automation techniques to improve efficiency, accuracy, and team productivity.

• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Examples of how you have tracked and analyzed design team performance, project timelines, and budget adherence, using data to drive improvements.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role of this caliber, a robust portfolio is crucial. Candidates should be prepared to present case studies that detail their involvement in project lifecycle management, technical problem-solving, team leadership, and the quantifiable impact of their design contributions. Emphasis should be placed on demonstrating proficiency with BIM/VDC tools and adherence to industry codes and company standards.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for an Electrical Design Manager with 10+ years of experience in a high-cost-of-living area like Nashville, Indiana, and managing large-scale projects, the estimated salary range is $100,000 - $140,000 annually.

• This estimate considers the required technical expertise, leadership responsibilities, project scope, and the need for specialized software proficiency. Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance

• 401(k) Retirement Plan with Company Match

• Paid Time Off (PTO) and Holidays

• Life Insurance and Disability Coverage

• Opportunities for Professional Development and Continuous Learning

• Potential for Performance-Based Bonuses

• Travel Expense Reimbursement (as applicable) Working Hours:

• Standard full-time work week, typically 40 hours per week.

• Flexibility may be required to meet project deadlines and attend critical meetings, potentially involving occasional overtime or adjusted schedules.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on national averages for similar roles and adjusted for the specified location and experience level. Gaylor Electric is a large, established company, so comprehensive benefits are expected. The "Ability to travel when needed" suggests that travel is a component of the role, and associated expenses would typically be covered.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Electrical Contracting and Construction Services. Gaylor Electric is a significant player in the commercial and industrial electrical construction sector, known for its focus on innovation, technology, and project execution.

Company Size: Large (500+ employees). This indicates a well-established organization with structured processes, opportunities for career advancement, and a broad range of project types and sizes.

Founded: 1963. With a long history, Gaylor Electric has a strong foundation and extensive experience in the industry, likely fostering a culture that values expertise, reliability, and long-term growth.

Team Structure:

• Operations Focus: The role sits within the engineering and virtual design operations, overseeing a team of Design Engineers and Virtual Designers.

• Reporting: Likely reports to a Director of Engineering, VP of Operations, or a similar senior leadership position within the company's engineering or preconstruction division.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Works closely with project managers, field operations teams, estimators, clients, architects, and other subcontractors to ensure seamless project delivery.

Methodology:

• Virtual Design & Construction (VDC): Employs advanced VDC methodologies and virtual design platforms (e.g., Autodesk Construction Cloud) for project coordination and installation design.

• Process Optimization: Focuses on developing and implementing best practices to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and cost-effectiveness in electrical design and preconstruction.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Utilizes technical calculations, project data, and performance metrics to inform design decisions, identify cost savings, and ensure compliance.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Gaylor Electric's industry position and long history suggest a culture that values expertise and innovation. The emphasis on VDC and technology indicates a forward-thinking approach to construction operations. The team structure implies a need for strong leadership and collaboration skills to navigate complex project environments.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior Management / Leadership. This role is responsible for managing a critical function within the company's preconstruction and design operations, directly impacting project success and profitability. It requires a blend of technical expertise, team leadership, and strategic thinking.

Reporting Structure: The position reports to senior leadership within the engineering or operations division, indicating a significant level of responsibility and influence. The manager, in turn, leads a team of specialized professionals.

Operations Impact: The Electrical Design Manager plays a pivotal role in ensuring electrical projects are designed efficiently, cost-effectively, and in compliance with all codes and standards. Their leadership directly impacts project timelines, budget adherence, quality of installation, and ultimately, client satisfaction and company profitability.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific sectors (e.g., Mission Critical, Healthcare) or advanced VDC technologies.

• Leadership Advancement: Potential progression to roles such as Director of Engineering, VP of Preconstruction, or similar senior operational leadership positions.

• Process Improvement Leadership: Lead company-wide initiatives to refine and implement new design and engineering processes, driving innovation and efficiency.

• Mentorship & Training: Develop and deliver training programs for junior engineers and designers, contributing to the overall talent development within the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career progression within a large, established construction firm. The emphasis on leadership, technical skill development, and process improvement provides significant opportunities for growth into higher-level operational and executive roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Primarily an office-based role, requiring presence in the Nashville, Indiana office for team collaboration, project meetings, and access to necessary resources.

Office Location(s): Nashville, Indiana. This location serves as the primary base for the engineering and design team.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role involves significant interaction with a team of engineers and designers, suggesting an open or semi-open office layout conducive to collaboration and knowledge sharing.

• Technology & Tools: Access to state-of-the-art engineering and virtual design software, high-performance workstations, and robust IT infrastructure is essential for this role.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for daily interaction with direct reports, peers, and senior management, facilitating communication and problem-solving.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week is typical, but the demands of managing multiple large-scale projects may necessitate flexibility, including occasional extended hours or weekend work to meet critical deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature of the role emphasizes the importance of in-person collaboration, team management, and direct oversight. The work environment is expected to be professional, technologically advanced, and focused on efficient project delivery.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess qualifications against the minimum requirements, with a specific focus on years of electrical experience and software proficiency.

• Technical Interview: An in-depth discussion with engineering leadership to evaluate your technical knowledge, including code compliance, electrical calculations, and proficiency with design software (Revit, AutoCAD, Navisworks). You may be asked to walk through specific examples from your experience.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where you will present key projects from your portfolio, highlighting your role, contributions, challenges overcome, and the impact of your designs. Be prepared to discuss your approach to team management and problem-solving.

• Behavioral & Situational Interview: Questions designed to assess your leadership style, team management capabilities, conflict resolution skills, and how you handle pressure and complex project scenarios.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior management (e.g., VP of Operations) to discuss cultural fit, strategic alignment, and long-term vision for the engineering department.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your most impactful projects that best demonstrate your leadership, technical skills, and success in managing complex electrical design for large-scale projects.

• Quantify Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the scope, your specific responsibilities, the challenges you faced, the solutions you implemented (especially any value engineering or process improvements), and the quantifiable results (e.g., cost savings, time efficiencies, quality improvements).

• Showcase Software Proficiency: Use screenshots or brief demonstrations to highlight your mastery of key software like Revit, Navisworks, and Autodesk Construction Cloud, showing how you leverage them for coordination and problem-solving.

• Detail Team Management: Explain how you led, mentored, and managed your design teams, including any training initiatives or performance improvement strategies.

• Address Code & Standards: Be ready to discuss how you ensured compliance with NEC, IBC, and other relevant codes throughout your projects.

Challenge Preparation:

• Case Study: Be prepared for a potential case study or problem-solving exercise related to a complex electrical design challenge. Focus on outlining your logical approach, considering technical feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and code compliance.

• Process Improvement Scenario: You might be asked to describe how you would improve a specific design process or address a common challenge within electrical project coordination.

• Leadership Simulation: Prepare to discuss scenarios involving managing underperforming team members, resolving conflicts between design disciplines, or presenting design solutions to non-technical stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to thoroughly assess technical acumen, leadership capabilities, and practical application of skills. A strong portfolio that clearly demonstrates impact and proficiency with VDC tools is critical for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Autodesk Revit: Essential for 3D modeling, design documentation, and parametric design of electrical systems. Proficiency expected at a high level for both usage and understanding of team output.

• Autodesk AutoCAD: Fundamental for 2D drafting, detailing, and design work.

• Autodesk Navisworks: Crucial for clash detection, model aggregation, simulation, and project review, enabling effective coordination across disciplines.

• Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC): Includes modules like BIM 360 Docs, BIM 360 Glue, Autodesk Build, and Collaborate Pro. This is the core platform for project data management, collaboration, document control, and workflow management.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Custom Reporting Tools: Likely internal reporting tools or dashboards built within ACC or other business intelligence software to track project progress, team performance, and financial metrics.

• Spreadsheet Software (Excel): For custom calculations, data analysis, and ad-hoc reporting.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design data interfaces with project management and estimating systems (which may have CRM-like functions) is beneficial.

• Workflow Automation: Experience with automating repetitive tasks within design software or project management platforms to improve efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with the Autodesk Construction Cloud suite is paramount. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience integrating these tools into project workflows for maximum efficiency and collaboration.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity: Upholding honesty and ethical conduct in all project dealings, design decisions, and team interactions.

• Accountability: Taking ownership of design outcomes, project responsibilities, and team performance, ensuring commitments are met.

• Teamwork: Fostering a collaborative environment where engineers, designers, and project teams work cohesively towards shared goals, valuing diverse perspectives.

• Innovation: Encouraging creative problem-solving, the adoption of new technologies, and the continuous improvement of design processes and solutions.

• Growth: Committing to personal and professional development, continuous learning, and advancing the company's capabilities and market position.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively promotes collaboration with all project stakeholders, including architects, other MEP trades, general contractors, and clients, to ensure designs are integrated and constructible.

• Process Review & Feedback: Encourages a culture of constructive feedback and process review within the design team to identify areas for improvement and share best practices.

• Knowledge Sharing: Fosters an environment where team members share expertise, project learnings, and technical insights to elevate the collective skill level of the department.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's stated core values are directly applicable to the operational aspects of this role. Candidates should be prepared to discuss how they embody these values in their daily work, team management, and decision-making processes.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Diverse Project Portfolios: Effectively overseeing multiple large-scale projects simultaneously, each with unique technical requirements, timelines, and client expectations.

• Rapid Technological Evolution: Keeping pace with advancements in BIM, VDC, and electrical design software and integrating new tools and methodologies into existing workflows.

• Cross-Disciplinary Coordination: Navigating complex coordination efforts with numerous trades and design disciplines to prevent clashes and ensure constructability.

• Talent Development & Retention: Building and retaining a high-performing team of skilled design engineers and virtual designers in a competitive market.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced VDC Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in advanced BIM modeling, simulation, and data analytics for construction.

• Industry Certifications: Support for obtaining or maintaining relevant professional certifications (e.g., P.E., CEM, LEED AP).

• Leadership Development Programs: Access to internal or external training focused on management, strategic planning, and executive leadership.

• Sector-Specific Expertise: Opportunities to gain deep knowledge in specialized sectors like Mission Critical or Healthcare through project involvement and targeted training.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents significant opportunities for professional growth by tackling complex challenges inherent in large-scale construction projects and by leveraging the company's commitment to learning and development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex electrical design challenge you faced on a large-scale project and how you led your team to overcome it. What was the outcome?" (Focus on leadership, problem-solving, and quantifiable results.)

• "How do you ensure your team stays current with the National Electrical Code and other relevant building codes? Provide an example of a time you had to navigate a code compliance issue." (Demonstrates commitment to compliance and proactive learning.)

• "Walk me through your process for performing value engineering on an electrical design. What metrics do you use to evaluate potential savings?" (Highlights financial acumen and efficiency focus.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "How do you foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement within your engineering team?" (Connect to Gaylor Electric's values of innovation and growth.)

• "Describe your approach to managing and mentoring design engineers and virtual designers. How do you ensure consistent performance and development?" (Assesses leadership and team management style.)

• "How do you see the role of Virtual Design and Construction evolving in the next 5-10 years, and how would you prepare your team for these changes?" (Gauges forward-thinking and adaptability.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, use a STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) or similar framework. Clearly define the project context, your specific role/task, the actions you took (technical solutions, leadership, process improvements), and the measurable results.

• Highlight Software Integration: Visually demonstrate how you utilized Revit, Navisworks, and ACC for coordination, clash detection, and workflow optimization. Explain the benefits of these tools in your process.

• Emphasize Leadership: Clearly articulate your role in leading the team, making critical decisions, and fostering collaboration.

• Quantify Success: Be ready with specific numbers – project value, cost savings achieved through VE, reduction in RFIs, or improvements in schedule adherence due to design coordination.

• Prepare for Q&A: Anticipate questions about technical details, team dynamics, and challenges encountered.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong understanding of electrical design principles, advanced VDC/BIM proficiency, effective team leadership, and a proactive approach to project execution and value delivery.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Electrical Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Gaylor Electric careers portal.

• Tailor Your Resume: Ensure your resume clearly highlights 10+ years of relevant electrical experience, specific software proficiencies (Revit, AutoCAD, Navisworks, Autodesk Construction Cloud), supervisory experience, and achievements related to project leadership, code compliance, and value engineering. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a digital portfolio showcasing 3-5 of your most impactful electrical design and coordination projects. Be ready to present specific examples of your leadership, technical problem-solving, software utilization, and quantifiable project outcomes.

• Research Gaylor Electric: Familiarize yourself with Gaylor Electric's mission, values, project portfolio, and commitment to innovation and technology. Understand their position in the market and their focus on Virtual Design and Construction.

• Practice Your Presentation: Rehearse presenting your portfolio and answering common interview questions, focusing on clear, concise, and impactful communication that demonstrates your qualifications and cultural fit.

⚠️ 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.