Acoustic Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Acoustic Design Manager

Company: PureGym US

Location: New York, NY

Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent

Category: Operations - Property Development & Design

Date Posted: 2026-04-02

Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (5-10 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the strategic design and implementation of acoustic solutions for a high-volume, multi-site fitness brand across the United States, ensuring compliance with diverse regional standards.

• Manage a framework of external acoustic consultants and key suppliers, driving value and ensuring adherence to service level agreements and PureGym specifications.

• Oversee project delivery for bespoke acoustic solutions in challenging, non-standard developments, balancing risk, cost, and time considerations for optimal commercial outcomes.

• Develop and maintain a comprehensive understanding of US acoustic standards across various states, cities, and townships to inform design and mitigation strategies.

• Provide expert support for existing properties, investigating and resolving noise/vibration complaints to maintain member satisfaction and operational integrity.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Acoustic Design Manager," the core responsibilities and required skills strongly align with a specialized Project Management or Operations role within Property Development, focusing on acoustic engineering and compliance. The emphasis on managing consultants, suppliers, project delivery, and cost management positions this as a key operational function within the Group Property Development team.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct and oversee acoustic risk reviews and profiling for new and existing US property developments to inform feasibility assessments and strategic site selection.

• Instruct and manage US-based acoustic consultants for site-specific surveys, rigorously reviewing their recommendations and designs for compliance, best value, and alignment with PureGym's specifications.

• Manage the performance and relationships with US framework consultants and key material suppliers, ensuring service level agreements are met and conducting periodic performance reviews.

• Support robust procurement processes for acoustic solutions, including the management and renewal of existing agreements and the selection of new suppliers.

• Project-manage the design process for unique and complex acoustic solutions in non-standard US gym developments, collaborating with internal and external design teams.

• Provide informed commercial recommendations on US acoustic design strategies, identifying opportunities to limit or exclude unnecessary mitigation based on risk assessment and cost-benefit analysis.

• Contribute to the cost management of US acoustic solutions by creating and updating mitigation case studies and tracking project expenditures.

• Research, document, and maintain a working knowledge of all relevant US acoustic standards for each State, City, or Township as required for compliance.

• Continuously research and propose improved noise mitigation solutions and enhance optionality within the US development process to drive innovation and efficiency.

• Investigate, advise on, and report on noise and vibration complaints affecting existing US PureGym properties, coordinating with relevant internal and external stakeholders.

• Ensure personal development plans are actively managed to support continuing professional development in acoustic engineering and property development.

• Represent the Group Property Development function internally and act as a positive ambassador for PureGym US externally.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical expertise in acoustics, strong project management capabilities, and commercial acumen, all within the context of a rapidly expanding multi-site retail/service environment. The focus on US-specific standards and managing third-party consultants is critical.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• 5-10 years of progressive experience in property development, construction project management, or a specialized acoustic engineering role, preferably within a multi-site or high-volume environment.

• Proven experience in managing large-scale, fast-paced, multi-site development projects.

Required Skills:

• Strong project management skills with a track record in property development and acoustics.

• Proficient in reading and interpreting technical drawings, specifications, and professional documents.

• Excellent understanding of acoustic risks and solutions, with a strong interest in developing expertise in gym environments.

• Ability to travel nationally across the US as needed to conduct site visits and manage projects.

• Skill in making clear, evidence-based recommendations quickly and confidently.

• Proficiency in data analysis to inform decisions and recommendations.

• Excellent communication skills, capable of simplifying complex technical issues for senior stakeholders.

• Strong cross-functional collaboration skills, focused on delivering business outcomes.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in gym operations or high-volume, low-price fitness environments.

• Familiarity with customer-facing industries such as leisure, hospitality, or retail.

• Membership in the Acoustical Society of America (ASA) or equivalent professional body.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize practical project management and a developing understanding of acoustics within the specific context of fitness facilities, rather than deep theoretical acoustic physics. Experience in fast-paced, multi-site environments is a key differentiator.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Case studies demonstrating successful management of acoustic design and mitigation projects, showcasing problem identification, solution development, and implementation.

• Examples of project plans, timelines, and budgets for property development or construction projects, highlighting scope, resource allocation, and risk management.

• Documentation of consultant and supplier management processes, including performance tracking, SLA adherence, and procurement strategies.

• Evidence of developing and implementing standardized processes or guidelines for acoustic compliance or property development.

Process Documentation:

• Examples of workflow diagrams or process maps related to site assessment, design development, or issue resolution in property development or acoustic engineering.

• Documentation outlining methodologies for risk assessment and mitigation planning in complex development scenarios.

• Records of how acoustic standards and compliance requirements were researched, documented, and integrated into project lifecycles.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates will need to showcase their ability to manage projects from inception to completion, with a particular focus on managing external parties and delivering within commercial constraints. The portfolio should highlight tangible results and process-driven approaches.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $100,000 - $120,000 base salary per year.

Bonus Potential: Performance-based bonus in addition to base salary.

Benefits:

• Medical Insurance

• Dental Insurance

• Vision Insurance

• Short-Term Disability Insurance

• Life Insurance

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

• Legal and Identity Theft Protection

• 401K Retirement Plan with potential company match (details to be confirmed)

Working Hours: Standard full-time hours, approximately 40 hours per week. Flexibility may be required to meet project deadlines and address urgent issues, including potential evening or weekend work on occasion.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is specific and competitive for a management-level role in New York City. The inclusion of a bonus structure indicates performance-driven incentives. The benefits package is comprehensive and standard for a corporate role in the US.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Fitness & Leisure (Health & Wellness)

Company Size: Large (over 1,000 employees globally, with significant US expansion underway), PureGym Group operates over 700 locations worldwide.

Founded: PureGym Group was founded in 2008. The US expansion represents a significant growth phase.

Team Structure:

• The Acoustic Design Manager will be part of the Group Property Development team.

• This team likely works closely with Real Estate, Construction, Operations, and potentially Marketing and Finance departments.

• The role reports to the Senior Acoustic Design Manager, indicating a hierarchical structure within the specialized acoustic function.

Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making is emphasized, with candidates expected to use data to inform recommendations.

• A lean, waste-reducing mindset is valued, indicating a focus on efficiency and optimization in processes.

• Continuous improvement is a core tenet, encouraging research into new solutions and enhancement of existing processes.

• The "Everybody Welcome" approach fosters an inclusive and collaborative environment.

Company Website: https://www.puregym.com/ (Global) and https://www.blinkfitness.com/ (US Brand)

📝 Enhancement Note: PureGym's rapid global growth and aggressive US expansion suggest a dynamic, fast-paced, and results-oriented culture. The emphasis on affordability, quality, and inclusivity ("Everybody Welcome") shapes the operational and employee experience. Blink Fitness is the US brand for PureGym's expansion.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a mid-to-senior management level within the Property Development function. It requires a blend of technical expertise, project management acumen, and strategic thinking applied to a specialized operational area.

Reporting Structure: The Acoustic Design Manager reports to the Senior Acoustic Design Manager, indicating a clear line of progression and mentorship within the acoustic discipline. This structure allows for specialized guidance and development.

Operations Impact: This role has a significant impact on the operational success and financial performance of new and existing gym locations. Effective acoustic design directly influences:

• Member Experience: Minimizing noise disturbances and ensuring a comfortable environment.

• Compliance & Regulatory Risk: Avoiding fines, legal challenges, and operational disruptions due to noise violations.

• Project Costs: Optimizing mitigation strategies to control construction and material expenses.

• Brand Reputation: Ensuring consistent quality and a positive environment across all US sites.

• Operational Efficiency: Streamlining the development process through effective planning and consultant management.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in acoustic engineering for fitness environments and US-specific regulations.

• Leadership: Potential to advance to Senior Acoustic Design Manager or lead larger, more complex projects as the US portfolio expands.

• Broader Property Development: Transition into more general property development management roles within the growing US team.

• Process Improvement: Drive initiatives to refine acoustic design standards, consultant frameworks, and project delivery methodologies.

• Industry Knowledge: Gain valuable experience in the rapidly growing US fitness market and the unique challenges of high-volume, affordable fitness operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a specialized career path within a growing international company. The expansion into the US market presents significant opportunities for individuals to shape processes and contribute to strategic growth, making it an attractive prospect for ambitious operations and engineering professionals.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in New York, NY, and is classified as on-site. This suggests a typical corporate office environment for the Property Development team.

Office Location(s): 45 West 45th Street, New York, NY 10036. This is a prime Manhattan location, suggesting a professional and accessible work setting.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role requires close collaboration with internal design teams, senior management, and external consultants. Expect a dynamic office space that facilitates team interaction.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to standard office software, project management tools, and potentially specialized acoustic modeling or design software will be provided. Familiarity with common CRM and project management platforms is expected.

• Team Interaction: Regular team meetings, project reviews, and cross-functional discussions are likely components of the daily work routine.

Work Schedule: The standard 40-hour work week is expected, but the nature of construction and property development often necessitates flexibility. Occasional evening or weekend work may be required to meet critical project deadlines or address urgent issues, particularly during peak development phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The New York City location implies a bustling urban work environment. The on-site requirement underscores the importance of in-person collaboration, site visits, and direct engagement with stakeholders, which are crucial for effective property development management.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Recruiter or HR screen to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.

• Hiring Manager Interview: Discussion with the Senior Acoustic Design Manager to delve into technical expertise, project management experience, and understanding of acoustic principles in a commercial context.

• Technical/Case Study Interview: A potential exercise or detailed discussion focused on a specific acoustic challenge or project scenario. This may involve reviewing a candidate's portfolio and asking them to walk through their approach, decision-making process, and outcomes.

• Cross-Functional Interview: Meeting with representatives from related departments (e.g., Construction, Real Estate) to assess collaboration skills and understanding of broader business objectives.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader in Property Development or Operations for final approval.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio by project type or responsibility area. Clearly label each case study with the project scope, your role, challenges, solutions, and quantifiable results.

• Acoustic Focus: For this role, prioritize projects demonstrating your ability to manage acoustic design, noise mitigation, or environmental compliance within property development.

• Project Management: Highlight your project management skills by showcasing project plans, timelines, budget management, and stakeholder communication strategies.

• Commercial Acumen: Demonstrate how your acoustic recommendations led to cost savings, risk reduction, or improved commercial outcomes.

• US Standards: If applicable, include examples of navigating and complying with local or regional building codes and environmental regulations.

• Conciseness: Be prepared to present key information concisely and effectively within the interview timeframe.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss how you would approach acoustic risk assessment for a new gym site in a dense urban area.

• Prepare to explain your methodology for selecting and managing external acoustic consultants.

• Think about how you would balance cost, performance, and regulatory compliance for a challenging acoustic solution.

• Practice articulating complex technical concepts in a clear, business-oriented manner.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio and potential case studies suggests that practical application and demonstrated problem-solving abilities are highly valued. Candidates should prepare to speak extensively about their past projects and quantifiable achievements.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Tools like Asana, Monday.com, Microsoft Project, or similar platforms for planning, tracking, and managing development projects.

• Acoustic Software (Familiarity): While not explicitly stated as a requirement to operate, familiarity with common acoustic modeling software (e.g., ODEON, EASE, CadnaA) or sound measurement tools would be beneficial for interpreting consultant reports.

• CAD Software (Interpretation): Ability to interpret technical drawings produced in AutoCAD or similar CAD platforms.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Advanced proficiency in Excel for data analysis, financial modeling, and reporting; Word for documentation; PowerPoint for presentations.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Spreadsheet Software: Advanced Excel skills for data analysis, cost tracking, and performance metrics reporting related to acoustic projects.

• Business Intelligence Tools (Familiarity): Exposure to BI tools like Tableau or Power BI for visualizing project data and performance trends could be advantageous.

CRM & Automation:

• Internal Systems: Likely use of internal company systems for property management, vendor management, and project tracking.

• Communication Platforms: Proficiency with tools like Slack, Microsoft Teams, or similar for internal and external communication.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role heavily relies on project management and data analysis within Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel. While direct operation of specialized acoustic software isn't the primary focus, understanding the outputs and reports from such software and CAD is crucial.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Efficiency & Value: A core value is delivering high-quality, affordable fitness solutions. This translates to a focus on cost-effectiveness and optimizing resources in property development.

• "Everybody Welcome": This mantra extends to internal operations, promoting an inclusive, respectful, and collaborative work environment where all team members are valued.

• Data-Driven: Decisions are expected to be backed by evidence and analysis, reflecting a commitment to objective problem-solving and strategic planning.

• Continuous Improvement: A culture that encourages innovation, learning, and proactive identification of ways to enhance processes and outcomes.

• Accountability & Proactiveness: Team members are expected to take ownership of their work, anticipate challenges, and act decisively.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Strong emphasis on working effectively with diverse teams (Real Estate, Construction, Operations) to achieve common goals.

• Stakeholder Management: Proactive and clear communication with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders, including consultants, suppliers, and internal leadership.

• Process Review & Feedback: An environment that likely encourages constructive feedback and open discussion of processes to drive improvements.

• Knowledge Sharing: A culture that supports the sharing of best practices and lessons learned, especially relevant given the expansion into new markets.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture emphasizes a balance between operational efficiency and a people-centric approach. The "Everybody Welcome" ethos is a key differentiator, suggesting a supportive and inclusive workplace that values diverse perspectives in its operations.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating US Acoustic Regulations: The complexity and variability of acoustic standards across different US states, cities, and townships present a significant challenge requiring meticulous research and compliance.

• Balancing Cost vs. Performance: Finding the optimal balance between effective acoustic mitigation and cost-effectiveness in a high-volume, low-price fitness model.

• Managing Diverse Stakeholders: Coordinating effectively with multiple third-party consultants, suppliers, and internal teams, each with potentially competing priorities.

• Rapid Expansion: Keeping pace with PureGym's aggressive US expansion requires efficient project delivery and scalable acoustic solutions.

• Adapting to New Environments: Addressing acoustic challenges specific to diverse property types and urban/suburban settings across the US.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• US Market Expertise: Gaining in-depth knowledge of the US property development landscape, regulations, and market dynamics.

• Specialized Acoustic Application: Deepening expertise in applying acoustic principles to the unique challenges of fitness facilities (e.g., equipment noise, cardio areas, group fitness studios).

• Process Optimization: Opportunity to develop and implement new standards, frameworks, and processes for acoustic design within a growing organization.

• Cross-Functional Skill Development: Enhancing collaboration and communication skills by working across various departments and with external parties.

• Leadership Potential: Developing leadership capabilities in managing projects, teams, and strategic initiatives within the Property Development function.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers significant opportunities for professional growth by tackling complex regulatory environments and contributing to the strategic expansion of a major fitness brand in a new market. Overcoming these challenges will build valuable and transferable skills.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex acoustic challenge you faced in a property development project and how you approached it. What was the outcome, and what did you learn?" (Focus on problem-solving, technical application, and lessons learned).

• "How would you go about establishing a framework for selecting and managing acoustic consultants in the US market, considering PureGym's need for value and compliance?" (Assess vendor management and strategic thinking).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about PureGym's expansion into the US market, and what excites you about joining Blink Fitness?" (Showcase research and genuine interest).

• "How do you ensure effective collaboration with non-technical stakeholders, such as operations managers or finance teams, when discussing acoustic design requirements?" (Assess communication and cross-functional skills).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select Key Projects: Choose 2-3 projects that best highlight your experience in acoustic design management, project delivery, and stakeholder coordination, ideally with a multi-site or commercial development focus.

• Quantify Impact: For each project, clearly state the problem, your solution, and the quantifiable results (e.g., cost savings achieved, compliance issues avoided, noise reduction levels, successful project completion within budget/timeline).

• Process Walkthrough: Be prepared to walk through your process from initial assessment to final delivery, explaining your decision-making at each stage.

• Visuals: Use slides or visual aids to illustrate technical drawings, site plans, or before/after scenarios if possible.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will likely probe your ability to translate technical acoustic knowledge into practical, cost-effective, and compliant solutions within a fast-paced commercial environment. Preparing specific examples from your portfolio will be crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Acoustic Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the PureGym/Blink Fitness careers portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight experience in property development, project management, acoustic design, and multi-site management. If you have a portfolio, ensure it includes case studies relevant to acoustic challenges, consultant management, and commercial recommendations.

• Resume Optimization: Use keywords from the job description such as "acoustic design," "project management," "property development," "stakeholder management," "noise mitigation," "US acoustic standards," and "consultant management." Quantify your achievements wherever possible.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research PureGym Group, Blink Fitness, their market position, and their expansion strategy in the US. Understand their "Everybody Welcome" philosophy and commitment to affordable fitness.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result), focusing on projects that demonstrate your problem-solving skills, commercial acumen, and ability to manage complex projects and stakeholders.

⚠️ 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.