Interior Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Interior Design Manager

Company: JUF Operations LLC (for Discovery Land Company)

Location: Fajardo, Puerto Rico

Job Type: Full Time

Category: Operations Management / Design & Construction Oversight

Date Posted: July 27, 2026

Experience Level: 6+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Manage the end-to-end interior design process for luxury residential and amenity projects, ensuring alignment with the overall development vision and brand standards of Discovery Land Company.

• Lead and mentor a design team, fostering a collaborative environment for architectural planning, design development, and construction documentation.

• Serve as a key liaison between clients, sales teams, consultants, vendors, and the construction team to facilitate informed design decisions and seamless project execution.

• Drive operational efficiency by managing project schedules, budgets, and resource allocation for design initiatives, from conceptualization through to final handover.

• Uphold the Discovery Land Company experience by integrating operational considerations into design programming and FF&E (Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment) selections.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Interior Design Manager," the responsibilities clearly indicate a significant operational and project management component, requiring oversight of consultants, contractors, and construction documentation. This role bridges creative design with the practical execution and operational integration of luxury real estate development. The inclusion of "JUF Operations LLC" as the hiring entity suggests a focus on the operational backbone supporting the Discovery Land Company brand.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Strategic Vision & Design Direction: Enforce the overarching vision, program, and design aesthetic for Moncayo Golf & Ocean Club, ensuring all design elements align with Discovery Land Company's luxury brand.

• Consultant & Drawing Management: Oversee consultants in managing the design process and the production of architectural and engineering drawings for various developer product types and club amenities.

• Client & Sales Engagement: Meet with prospective clients and the sales team to present developer product designs and discuss customization options, facilitating informed purchasing decisions.

• Design Selections & Documentation: Schedule and lead customer meetings to review and record home design selections, providing detailed notes to consultants and the design team for incorporation into construction documents.

• Selections Book Management: Create and maintain detailed selections books for each home, ensuring accurate and timely handover to the development and construction teams for execution.

• Vendor & Specification Coordination: Liaise with vendors to provide detailed specifications and design information for all products utilized in development projects.

• Meeting Facilitation & Reporting: Schedule, conduct, and manage meetings with consultants, contractors, and clients, including preparing agendas and distributing detailed meeting minutes or delegating this task.

• Team Leadership & Mentorship: Manage and mentor design assistant(s), providing clear guidance, direction, and support for task completion, meetings, reports, and collateral development.

• Operations & FF&E Integration: Coordinate with the operations team on area programming by providing design input, working with FF&E consultants/vendors, and collaborating with the construction team to execute the overall design and aesthetic of the club.

• Client Consultant Coordination: Liaise with client-appointed consultants and vendors for the execution of their homes, ensuring the construction team has the most up-to-date information.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of creative design leadership and rigorous project management. Emphasis on client meetings, selection documentation, and coordination with operations and construction teams points to a role that requires strong organizational skills, clear communication, and an understanding of the full project lifecycle, from initial client engagement to final construction handover.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture or Interior Design is preferred.

• Non-active architectural registration is acceptable if a license is held. Experience:

• Minimum of 6+ years of experience in architectural planning and design, with a focus on luxury-level projects and horizontal development.

• Proven experience in sourcing, selecting, and managing consultant teams for the design and construction of high-end residential and golf club amenity projects. Required Skills:

• Design Software Proficiency: Advanced skills in Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, Project, Bluebeam, and PowerPoint. Expertise in Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop).

• Specialized Software Familiarity: Working knowledge of AutoCAD, Sketch-up, and BIM-Revit.

• Construction Knowledge: Intimate understanding of construction means, methods, and value engineering principles to manage the construction process effectively.

• Project Management: Ability to establish and manage departmental and project schedules and budgets.

• Leadership & Supervision: Capability to supervise and plan the work of technical and professional subordinates.

• Communication: Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing. Skill in interpreting and executing complex oral and written instructions, including reading blueprints and specifications.

• Relationship Management: Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with consultants, clients, and internal teams.

• Design Principles: Considerable knowledge of modern principles, processes, and practices in architecture, engineering, and interior design.

• Code Compliance: Familiarity with applicable codes and regulatory agency guidelines.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in operations, specifically front and back-of-house programming for new construction.

• Experience in creating, distributing, and managing RFPs for design teams and contractors.

• Ability to review, analyze, and make recommendations on designs, plans, geotechnical studies, and specifications.

• Flexibility and adaptability to pivot to new projects in a fast-paced environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technical skill requirements are extensive, covering project management, design visualization, and construction documentation tools. The emphasis on "operations" knowledge in the context of design programming, particularly for front and back-of-house areas, suggests a need for a candidate who can think holistically about how spaces will function post-construction, beyond just aesthetics.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Case Studies of Luxury Residential Projects: Showcase successful design projects, highlighting the integration of client selections, management of consultants, and coordination with construction teams.

• Demonstration of Design Process: Illustrate your approach to managing the entire design lifecycle, from initial concept and programming through to construction documentation and FF&E specification.

• Budget and Schedule Management Examples: Provide evidence of your ability to create and manage project budgets and schedules for complex design initiatives.

• RFP and Vendor Management Documentation: Include examples of RFPs created and managed, along with evidence of successful vendor negotiations and coordination.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design and Optimization: Present examples of designed workflows for managing client selections, consultant coordination, and inter-departmental handoffs.

• Implementation and Automation: Show how you've implemented design processes and leveraged technology (e.g., project management software, design tools) to improve efficiency and accuracy.

• Measurement and Performance Analysis: Demonstrate how you track and analyze the success of design projects, focusing on client satisfaction, budget adherence, schedule compliance, and operational integration.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is critical for this role. Candidates should be prepared to showcase not just aesthetic capabilities but also their process management, project execution, and ability to translate design intent into tangible, operational realities within luxury development environments. Demonstrating experience with RFP processes and value engineering will be advantageous.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated Range: $90,000 - $130,000 USD annually.

• Rationale: This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for Interior Design Managers with 6+ years of experience in luxury real estate development, considering the specialized skills required (architectural planning, project management, advanced software proficiency) and the location in Puerto Rico, which may have slightly different cost-of-living and compensation structures compared to the mainland US. Bonus eligibility is also factored in.

Benefits:

• Competitive Pay + Bonus Eligible

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Benefits (100% employer-paid for employee; dependents at additional cost)

• 401k Contribution

• Paid Time Off (PTO) and Paid Holidays

• Employee Meals

• Referral Incentives

• Recognition Programs

• Professional Development and Upward Mobility Opportunities

• Work-Family Culture Working Hours:

• Full-time position, typically 40 hours per week.

• Requires flexibility to work extended hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as dictated by business demands and project deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate. The benefits package is comprehensive, with a notable emphasis on employer-paid medical coverage for employees and opportunities for professional growth, which are attractive to experienced operations and design professionals. The requirement for flexible and potentially long hours is typical for project-based management roles in development.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Real Estate Development, Hospitality, Luxury Residential Communities

Company Size: Discovery Land Company operates multiple high-end communities globally. JUF Operations LLC is likely an entity supporting these operations. The specific team size for this role within Moncayo is not specified but would involve a design team and extensive cross-functional collaboration.

Founded: Discovery Land Company was founded in 1994. Moncayo Golf & Ocean Club is a newer development within this established portfolio.

Team Structure:

• Reporting: The Interior Design Manager will likely report to a Development Director or Senior Project Manager within the Moncayo project team.

• Direct Reports: Expected to manage and mentor design assistant(s).

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Works closely with development teams, construction managers, sales teams, operations (front and back-of-house), FF&E consultants, external architects, engineers, and clients.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design Integration: Using client feedback, operational needs, and market trends to inform design decisions.

• Process Optimization: Implementing standardized workflows for design selections, documentation, and team coordination to ensure efficiency and quality.

• Collaborative Execution: Fostering strong partnerships with all stakeholders to ensure seamless project delivery from concept to completion.

Company Website: http://www.discoverylandco.com/ and https://discoverylandco.com/communities/moncayo-golf-and-ocean-club

📝 Enhancement Note: Discovery Land Company is known for its exclusive, high-touch service and meticulously designed properties. The culture likely emphasizes excellence, attention to detail, and a strong sense of community among residents and staff. For operations roles, this translates to a need for professionalism, discretion, and a commitment to delivering a premium experience.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is a mid-to-senior level management position within the design and development operations. It requires a blend of technical expertise, project leadership, and team management.

Reporting Structure: The Interior Design Manager reports into the project's development or construction leadership, indicating a direct impact on the physical realization of the community's assets.

Operations Impact: The role directly influences the perceived quality, functionality, and desirability of residential properties and club amenities, which are crucial drivers of sales and member satisfaction. Effective design management contributes significantly to the overall value proposition and operational success of the community.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to move into Senior Design Manager or Director-level roles within Discovery Land Company's expanding portfolio.

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in luxury hospitality or high-end residential design, becoming a go-to expert for specific project types.

• Cross-functional Transition: Leverage operational understanding gained in this role to transition into broader project management or development roles within the company.

• Mentorship: Gain experience in developing and leading design teams, honing leadership and talent development skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: This position offers a clear path for career progression within a prestigious organization. The emphasis on managing complex projects and leading teams provides valuable experience for advancement into higher-level operations and management roles within the real estate development and hospitality sectors.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based at the Moncayo Golf & Ocean Club development site in Fajardo, Puerto Rico. This implies a mix of office-based work (design, meetings, documentation) and on-site presence for project oversight and client interactions.

Office Location(s): Moncayo Golf & Ocean Club, Fajardo, Puerto Rico.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Expect to work in a dynamic team setting, often requiring close collaboration with various departments and external partners.

• Tools & Technology: Access to necessary design software, project management tools, and potentially on-site facilities for client presentations.

• Team Interaction: Frequent interaction with design assistants, project managers, construction crews, and potentially members/clients.

Work Schedule:

• Full-time role with standard working hours.

• Significant flexibility is required, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, to meet project demands and client availability. Long hours are commonplace during critical project phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "on-site" nature of this role is paramount. Candidates must be comfortable working within a developing luxury resort community, which may involve varied work settings and a need to adapt to the unique demands of such environments, including potential fieldwork and direct engagement with the property and its stakeholders.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio for qualifications and experience alignment.

• Technical Interview: Discussion focused on design principles, software proficiency, construction knowledge, and project management methodologies. Expect questions on handling RFPs, managing consultants, and value engineering.

• Portfolio Presentation: A key stage where candidates present selected projects, detailing their role, process, challenges, and outcomes. Focus on demonstrating project lifecycle management, client interaction, and operational integration.

• Team/Stakeholder Interviews: Meetings with key team members (e.g., Development Director, Construction Manager) to assess cultural fit, collaboration style, and leadership potential.

• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership to discuss strategic alignment and long-term vision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best showcase luxury residential/amenity design, project management, multi-stakeholder coordination, and operational considerations.

• Focus on Process: Clearly articulate your design methodology, project execution steps, and how you managed challenges and decisions. Use a structured approach (e.g., STAR method for specific examples).

• Quantify Impact: Wherever possible, use metrics to demonstrate success (e.g., budget adherence, schedule milestones met, client satisfaction feedback, efficiency improvements).

• Highlight Leadership: Showcase instances of team management, mentorship, and successful cross-functional collaboration.

• Tailor to Discovery Land: Emphasize understanding of luxury markets, operational integration, and commitment to high standards.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Scenario: Be prepared for a hypothetical design challenge or problem-solving scenario related to site constraints, client preferences, or operational integration.

• Project Management Task: You might be asked to outline how you would manage a specific phase of a project, including resource allocation, risk assessment, and communication plans.

• Presentation Skills: Practice delivering clear, concise, and compelling presentations of your work, anticipating questions about your design choices and management approach.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily scrutinize both design acumen and operational project management skills. A well-structured portfolio that demonstrates a methodical approach to design, client management, and project execution within luxury environments will be crucial for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design & Visualization: Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop), AutoCAD, Sketch-up, BIM-Revit.

• Project Management: Microsoft Project, Bluebeam.

• Collaboration & Communication: Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly listed as analytical tools, proficiency in Excel and potentially Bluebeam for document review implies capabilities in analyzing project data, reports, and specifications. CRM & Automation:

• Not explicitly mentioned, but experience with project management software and RFP management tools suggests an aptitude for workflow management and system utilization.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency across a broad spectrum of design, project management, and office productivity software is essential. The inclusion of Bluebeam suggests a need for strong document management and review capabilities, often used in construction and architecture for markups and collaboration on technical documents.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence & Quality: A commitment to delivering the highest standards in design and execution, reflecting the luxury nature of Discovery Land Company properties.

• Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding ethical standards and maintaining a professional demeanor in all interactions with clients, colleagues, and vendors.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Working effectively across departments and with external partners to achieve shared project goals.

• Innovation & Adaptability: Embracing new design trends, technologies, and project requirements with flexibility and a proactive approach.

• Attention to Detail: Meticulous focus on every aspect of the design and implementation process to ensure a flawless final product.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive Communication: Regularly updating all stakeholders on project progress, potential issues, and decisions.

• Solution-Oriented: Focusing on finding constructive solutions to challenges that arise during the design and construction phases.

• Service-Focused: Prioritizing member and client satisfaction through responsive and high-quality service delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at Discovery Land Company communities emphasizes a high level of service, meticulous execution, and a strong sense of pride in their work. Candidates should demonstrate an alignment with these values, particularly in their approach to client interaction, project management, and team collaboration.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Client Demands with Brand Standards: Effectively managing diverse client preferences while ensuring designs adhere to the established luxury aesthetic and operational requirements of Discovery Land Company.

• Navigating Complex Project Timelines and Budgets: Delivering high-quality design outcomes within strict schedule and financial constraints, especially in a multi-faceted development environment.

• Coordinating Multiple Stakeholders: Effectively managing communication and expectations among clients, consultants, construction teams, and internal departments to ensure seamless project flow.

• Adapting to Site-Specific Conditions: Integrating design solutions that account for the unique environmental, regulatory, and logistical factors present in Fajardo, Puerto Rico.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Exposure to Diverse Luxury Projects: Gaining experience across various residential types and club amenities within a world-renowned portfolio.

• Advanced Project Management Skills: Enhancing capabilities in managing complex, multi-disciplinary projects from inception to completion.

• Leadership Development: Opportunities to mentor junior designers and lead project teams, refining management and strategic planning skills.

• Industry Best Practices: Staying abreast of the latest trends in luxury design, sustainable building practices, and operational integration within high-end communities.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents a significant opportunity for growth by tackling complex challenges within a high-stakes, luxury development environment. Successfully managing these challenges will build a robust skill set valuable for future leadership roles in operations and project management.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for managing client design selections, ensuring both their satisfaction and adherence to project constraints." (Focus on structured communication, documentation, and decision-making)

• "How do you approach value engineering in a luxury project without compromising quality or aesthetic?" (Demonstrate understanding of material sourcing, construction methods, and cost-benefit analysis)

• "Walk me through a challenging project where you had to coordinate between design consultants, construction teams, and client representatives. What was your role, and what was the outcome?" (Use STAR method, highlight communication, problem-solving, and leadership) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What appeals to you about Discovery Land Company's approach to luxury development and your specific role at Moncayo?" (Research company values, projects, and demonstrate genuine interest)

• "How would you ensure that the operational needs of the club (e.g., back-of-house flow) are considered during the interior design process?" (Showcase understanding of operational integration and cross-functional thinking)

• "Describe a time you had to manage a project with competing priorities or tight deadlines. How did you prioritize tasks and communicate with your team?" (Highlight organizational skills, time management, and leadership under pressure) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly define the objective, your specific role, the key challenges, the solutions implemented, and the measurable results.

• Highlight Process: Emphasize your systematic approach to design, documentation, and stakeholder management. Use visual aids effectively to illustrate your process.

• Focus on Impact: Quantify achievements whenever possible (e.g., budget savings, schedule adherence, client satisfaction metrics).

• Demonstrate Technical Skills: Briefly touch upon the software and tools used and how they facilitated your work.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about specific design choices, material selections, construction details, and budget allocations.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be looking for a candidate who can expertly blend creative vision with disciplined operational execution. Strong storytelling through portfolio examples, combined with clear articulation of processes and problem-solving abilities, will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Interior Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided ADP WorkNow link.

• Portfolio Customization: Curate your portfolio to prominently feature projects demonstrating luxury residential or hospitality design, project management, and successful stakeholder coordination. Prioritize case studies that highlight your process for managing client selections and integrating operational considerations.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight keywords such as "Interior Design," "Architectural Planning," "Project Management," "Luxury Residential," "FF&E," "Budget Management," and specific software proficiencies (AutoCAD, Revit, Adobe Suite, Bluebeam). Quantify achievements where possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, project management methodologies, and problem-solving approaches. Prepare to present your portfolio with a focus on process, impact, and collaboration. Research Discovery Land Company and Moncayo Golf & Ocean Club to understand their brand, values, and operational context.

• Company Research: Gain a deep understanding of Discovery Land Company's portfolio, brand ethos, and commitment to luxury. Familiarize yourself with the Moncayo Golf & Ocean Club project specifically, noting its unique location and offerings.

⚠️ 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.