AV Project Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: AV Project Design Manager Company: Cushman & Wakefield Location: Remote Client Site - USA - Flexible United States (with potential focus on Boston, Massachusetts) Job Type: Full-time Category: Operations / Project Management / Technology Infrastructure Date Posted: September 25, 2025 Experience Level: 5-10 Years Remote Status: Telecommute (Client Site)

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is critical for managing the end-to-end lifecycle of Audio Visual (AV) and related technology infrastructure projects for client sites across the United States.
• It involves a strong focus on infrastructure design, system development, procurement processes, and vendor management to ensure seamless integration and optimal performance of AV systems.
• The position requires a blend of technical expertise in AV technologies and strong project coordination skills to deliver complex projects within specified timelines and budgets.
• Key to this role is the collaboration with IT leadership, real estate teams, and external stakeholders to align AV solutions with business objectives and operational efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "AV Project Design Manager," the responsibilities clearly indicate a significant overlap with operations management, particularly in infrastructure deployment and lifecycle management. The "client site" remote nature suggests the individual will be embedded within or closely supporting a specific client's operational environment, requiring a deep understanding of their business needs and IT infrastructure. The focus on performance, stability, and efficiency directly aligns with core operations principles.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage the design, procurement, and installation of Audio Visual (AV) and related IT/technology systems for client spaces, ensuring compliance with project specifications and client standards.
• Coordinate with network architects, IT teams, and external customers to design and enhance network infrastructure, conducting functional audits to prevent downtimes and ensure system stability and future growth.
• Manage multiple project schedules and resources, including AV installation technicians, control system programmers, engineers, and contracted vendors, ensuring timely and budget-compliant project delivery.
• Drive adherence to client standards for AV project development and design, including technical programming, confirmation of IDF/MDF room requirements, and the design/development of IDF/MDF layouts, rack elevations, and associated electrical/mechanical needs.
• Develop and manage all necessary drawings (Revit, AutoCAD) for audiovisual, low voltage, sound masking, and security systems, including project specifications, Bill of Materials (BOM), and material budgets at various project phases (SD/DD/CD).
• Maintain client standards, ensure client guidelines websites are up-to-date, and proactively research and present new products and technologies for client consideration.
• Administer client databases for AV space configurations, designs, and components, and establish/manage a project schedule with regular reporting on status, progress, budgeting, and completion dates.
• Conduct site surveys, perform bid leveling and recommendations, review and approve RFIs and change orders, and provide construction oversight administration related to AV project installations.
• Ensure all safety procedures and company/client-related safety policies are followed, and complete all required training modules.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a deep dive into technical design and project execution, emphasizing the operational aspects of technology deployment. The explicit mention of "performance, stability, and efficiency" and "prevent downtimes, system failures" directly ties this role to operational excellence. The requirement to manage multiple project schedules and resources, along with vendor coordination, underscores the project management and operational control aspects.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High School Diploma or GED Equivalent required.
• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field is highly preferred, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience:

• A total of 5-8 years of related experience is required, combining:
  • Minimum five (5) years of general IT experience demonstrating progression in managing complex systems.
  • Minimum three (3) years of Audio Visual (AV) Engineering experience, specifically with designing AV signal flows and creating AV design diagrams using AutoCAD.

Required Skills:

• Technical Design & Drafting: Advanced proficiency in AutoCAD and Revit for creating detailed AV, low voltage, sound masking, and security system drawings, including rack elevations and electrical/mechanical requirements.
• AV System Expertise: In-depth knowledge of enterprise Audio-Visual systems, including switching, routing, control systems, display devices, audio components (amplifiers, speakers, microphones), cameras, and related technologies.
• Project Management & Coordination: Proven ability to manage multiple project schedules, resources, and vendors, ensuring projects are completed on time and within budget.
• Procurement & Budgeting: Experience in developing Bills of Materials (BOMs), material budgets, and managing procurement tasks.
• Communication & Collaboration: Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills for effective interaction with clients, IT teams, vendors, and internal stakeholders.
• Problem-Solving & Analysis: Ability to diagnose, resolve complex technical and project-related problems, and anticipate issues with proactive solutions.
• Client Standards Adherence: Strong ability to understand and enforce client-specific design standards and guidelines.

Preferred Skills:

• AutoCAD certification.
• Experience with other related technical certification programs or trade school.
• Proficiency in virtual environments and collaboration tools (Microsoft Office Suite, Outlook, Excel, Word, BlueJeans, Teams Meetings, Zoom).
• Negotiation and data analytics skills for effective project communication and storytelling.
• Experience in a high-volume, fast-paced client environment with high performance expectations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on specific software like AutoCAD and Revit, coupled with the need for in-depth AV system knowledge and project management capabilities, points to a highly specialized technical operations role. The "5-8 years total related experience" requirement suggests this is not an entry-level position and candidates are expected to demonstrate a solid track record in both IT infrastructure and AV design/implementation.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Technical Drawings Showcase: A portfolio demonstrating proficiency in creating complex AV, low voltage, sound masking, and security system designs using AutoCAD and/or Revit. This should include examples of rack elevations, signal flow diagrams, and equipment specifications.
• Project Lifecycle Management: Case studies or examples of AV projects managed from initial design through installation, testing, and close-out, highlighting successful coordination with multiple stakeholders and vendors.
• Bill of Materials (BOM) & Budgeting: Samples of detailed Bills of Materials and budget estimations for AV projects, showcasing accuracy and adherence to client financial parameters.
• Standards Compliance: Evidence of implementing and maintaining client-specific technical standards within project designs and deliverables.
• Problem Resolution: Examples of how complex technical or project-related issues were identified, analyzed, and resolved to ensure project success.

Process Documentation:

• Design Documentation: Examples of comprehensive documentation for AV system designs, including technical specifications, installation guidelines, and user manuals where applicable.
• Project Reporting: Samples of progress reports, status updates, and completion summaries that effectively communicate project status, budget adherence, and key performance indicators to leadership and stakeholders.
• Workflow Optimization: Documentation or case studies illustrating improvements made to AV design or installation workflows for enhanced efficiency and quality.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an AV Project Design Manager role, a strong portfolio is paramount. It should not only showcase technical design skills but also the ability to manage the entire project lifecycle, demonstrating an understanding of operational processes from conception to implementation. The emphasis on client standards and budget management is crucial for demonstrating operational control and client satisfaction.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated Range: $103,955.00 - $122,300.00 per year.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, vision, and dental insurance programs.
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs).
• Retirement savings plans, including 401(k) or similar options.
• Life insurance and disability insurance programs.
• Paid and unpaid time away from work, including paid time off (PTO).

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours, typically 40 hours per week, with potential for extended hours depending on project demands and client needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is competitive for a specialized technical and project management role in the US. The benefits package is standard for a large corporation like Cushman & Wakefield, offering a comprehensive suite of health, financial, and time-off benefits essential for operations professionals who often require work-life balance amidst demanding project schedules.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Commercial Real Estate Services and Investment Management. Cushman & Wakefield operates globally, providing a wide range of services including property management, leasing, investment sales, and project management. Company Size: Large (Likely exceeding 50,000 employees globally based on publicly available information). This size implies a structured environment with established processes and opportunities for cross-functional collaboration. Founded: 1760 (as Cushman & Wakefield). This long history suggests a company with deep industry experience, stability, and a well-established corporate culture.

Team Structure:

• The AV Project Design Manager likely operates within a broader IT, Facilities Management, or Project Management division that supports client operations and real estate portfolios.
• The role involves collaboration with various internal teams, including IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, facilities, leasing, and project construction management, as well as external vendor teams.
• Reporting structure is likely to a senior IT leader, Director of Technology, or a Senior Project Director within the client's organization or Cushman & Wakefield's service delivery team.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Emphasis on using client requirements, technical specifications, and industry best practices to inform AV system designs and infrastructure plans.
• Process Standardization: Adherence to client-specific standards and guidelines for AV deployment, ensuring consistency and maintainability across multiple client locations.
• Project Execution Framework: Utilizing project management methodologies for planning, execution, monitoring, and closing of AV projects, with a focus on efficiency, quality, and stakeholder satisfaction.
• Continuous Improvement: Proactively identifying opportunities to introduce new technologies and improve existing AV systems and design processes.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Cushman & Wakefield's extensive history and global presence suggest a professional, process-driven environment. For an operations-focused role like this, expect a culture that values efficiency, client service, and adherence to established protocols. Collaboration across diverse teams and with external clients is a hallmark of such a large service organization.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Mid-to-Senior Level. This role requires significant specialized technical knowledge and project management experience, indicating it's beyond an entry-level or junior position. It's a key individual contributor role with significant responsibility for critical infrastructure. Reporting Structure: The role typically reports to a senior IT or Facilities Management leader within the client organization or the Cushman & Wakefield account team. This position may also liaise with project managers, IT directors, and facilities managers. Operations Impact: This role has a direct impact on the operational efficiency and effectiveness of client businesses by ensuring that their communication and collaboration infrastructure (AV systems) functions reliably and meets their evolving needs. Successful project delivery contributes to client satisfaction, productivity, and the overall success of the managed real estate portfolio.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific AV technologies, control system programming, or network integration within AV systems.
• Senior Project Management: Progress into managing larger, more complex, or multiple concurrent AV and IT infrastructure projects.
• Team Leadership: Transition into a team lead or management role overseeing a group of AV engineers, designers, or project coordinators.
• Broader IT/Facilities Management: Expand responsibilities into broader IT infrastructure management, smart building technologies, or overall facilities technology strategy.
• Consulting: Leverage expertise to consult on AV and technology infrastructure strategies for a wider range of clients.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "5-8 years" experience requirement positions this role as a significant step in an operations or technology infrastructure career. The potential for growth into leadership or broader strategic roles is strong, especially within a large, diversified firm like Cushman & Wakefield.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a "Remote Client Site - USA - Flexible United States" position. This means the individual will likely be working on-site at a client's office location, potentially in Boston, Massachusetts, or other client facilities across the US, rather than a traditional Cushman & Wakefield office. Office Location(s): Flexible across the United States, with a specific mention of Boston, Massachusetts, suggesting potential client sites in that region.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will be at a client's facility, which could range from corporate offices to more specialized environments depending on the client's industry.
• Expect a professional, corporate setting where collaboration with the client's IT, facilities, and business teams is frequent.
• Access to necessary AV equipment, design software, and IT resources will be provided by the client or managed through Cushman & Wakefield's service agreement.
• The role will involve both desk-based work for design and documentation, and potentially on-site coordination during installation phases.

Work Schedule:

• Standard 40-hour work week, but flexibility may be required to accommodate client needs, project deadlines, and site-specific installation windows, which could include off-hours or weekend work on occasion.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Remote Client Site" designation is key. It implies a hands-on, embedded role within a client's operational environment, requiring adaptability to different client cultures and site specificities, rather than a purely remote, home-based work arrangement.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A recruiter or hiring manager will review applications and resumes to assess qualifications and experience against the job requirements.
• Technical Interview: Expect in-depth questions about AV technologies, network infrastructure, design principles, and project management methodologies. This may involve technical scenario-based questions.
• Portfolio Review: Candidates will likely be asked to present their portfolio, showcasing specific projects, design examples (AutoCAD/Revit drawings), and discussing their role and impact.
• Project Management & Behavioral Interview: Questions will focus on project coordination skills, vendor management, problem-solving approaches, communication style, and how candidates handle pressure and client expectations.
• Final Interview: May involve meeting with senior leadership or key client stakeholders to assess cultural fit and overall strategic alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Select Projects: Choose 3-4 of your most relevant and impactful projects that best demonstrate your AV design, project management, and problem-solving skills.
• Highlight Your Role: Clearly articulate your specific contributions, responsibilities, and the challenges you overcame in each project.
• Showcase Technical Skills: Include examples of AutoCAD/Revit drawings, signal flow diagrams, and BOMs. Explain your design choices and why they were effective.
• Quantify Results: Where possible, use metrics to demonstrate the success of your projects (e.g., on-time delivery, within-budget completion, system uptime improvements, user satisfaction).
• Tell a Story: Structure your portfolio presentation to tell a clear narrative for each project, from problem identification to solution implementation and outcome.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Scenarios: Be prepared to discuss how you would approach designing an AV system for a specific type of space (e.g., a large conference room, an auditorium) given certain requirements and constraints.
• Problem-Solving Case Studies: Think about past complex AV or project management challenges you've faced and how you resolved them. Prepare to walk through your thought process.
• Client Management: Consider how you would handle difficult client conversations, manage scope creep, or communicate project risks and status updates.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily scrutinize both technical design capabilities and project management acumen. A well-prepared portfolio that clearly articulates technical expertise and operational project execution is crucial for success. Demonstrating an understanding of client needs and the ability to translate them into functional AV solutions will be key.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: AutoCAD (required), Revit (required). Expertise in creating detailed technical drawings, schematics, and 3D models for AV, low voltage, and related infrastructure.
• Project Management Software: Proficiency in managing project schedules and resources, likely using tools such as Microsoft Project, Asana, Monday.com, or similar platforms.
• Collaboration Platforms: Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook), Microsoft Teams, Zoom, BlueJeans for communication, documentation, and virtual meetings.
• AV Control System Software: While not explicitly stated as a requirement to program, understanding and familiarity with AV control system architectures (e.g., Crestron, Extron, AMX) and their integration is essential for design.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Microsoft Excel for data manipulation, analysis, and reporting; potentially BI tools like Power BI or Tableau for more advanced reporting and visualization of project metrics.
• Database Management: Ability to manage and update client databases for AV system configurations and components.

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly a CRM role, understanding how AV systems integrate with broader IT infrastructure, which may involve CRM data flows or automation for system monitoring, could be beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of AutoCAD and Revit as required skills signifies their importance. Proficiency in these design tools is foundational. Beyond that, strong general IT and project management software skills are expected for effective operations and project execution.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Client Focus: Prioritizing client needs and ensuring that AV solutions directly support their business functions and operational goals.
• Excellence in Execution: Commitment to delivering high-quality designs and installations, meeting or exceeding project specifications and client expectations.
• Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding high ethical standards in all interactions with clients, vendors, and colleagues.
• Innovation: Proactively seeking and recommending new technologies and process improvements to enhance AV systems and client experiences.
• Collaboration: Fostering a team-oriented approach, working effectively with diverse internal and external stakeholders to achieve project success.
• Efficiency: Driving for efficient processes in design, procurement, and installation to manage projects effectively within budget and timeline constraints.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role requires seamless collaboration with IT infrastructure teams, facilities management, real estate project managers, and end-users to ensure AV systems are integrated into the broader building and IT ecosystem.
• Vendor Partnership: Cultivating strong working relationships with AV contractors and vendors to ensure successful project execution and adherence to design standards.
• Stakeholder Communication: Maintaining open and transparent communication channels with all stakeholders, providing regular updates and addressing concerns promptly.
• Proactive Problem-Solving: Working collaboratively to identify potential issues early and developing joint solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given Cushman & Wakefield's service-oriented nature and the client-site requirement, the culture likely emphasizes client satisfaction, professionalism, and a results-driven approach. The ability to collaborate effectively across different disciplines and with external partners is a key cultural expectation for operations roles in this sector.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Client Expectations: Balancing diverse client requirements, budgets, and timelines while ensuring technical feasibility and adherence to standards.
• Rapid Technological Advancement: Keeping abreast of the fast-evolving AV technology landscape and integrating new solutions effectively.
• Complex Project Coordination: Orchestrating multiple stakeholders, vendors, and project phases for large-scale AV deployments in dynamic environments.
• Interoperability Issues: Ensuring seamless integration of AV systems with existing IT networks and other building technologies.
• Remote Site Management: Effectively managing projects and client relationships when working remotely from a central office, requiring strong communication and self-management skills.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Industry Certifications: Pursuing certifications like CTS (Certified Technology Specialist) from AVIXA, or advanced Revit/AutoCAD certifications.
• Vendor Training: Participating in training programs offered by AV equipment manufacturers and technology partners.
• Project Management Training: Enhancing project management skills through courses or certifications like PMP (Project Management Professional).
• Exposure to Diverse Technologies: Gaining experience with a wide range of AV solutions and emerging technologies across various client industries.
• Mentorship: Learning from senior IT and AV professionals within Cushman & Wakefield or client organizations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities to tackle complex technical and logistical challenges, fostering significant professional growth. The dynamic nature of AV technology and client needs necessitates continuous learning and adaptation, which are hallmarks of thriving operations professionals.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Philosophy: "Describe your process for designing an AV system for a corporate conference room, considering factors like room size, user needs, and budget." Prepare to walk through your design steps and justify your technology choices.
• Project Management Approach: "How do you manage multiple AV projects simultaneously? What strategies do you use to ensure on-time and on-budget delivery?" Be ready to discuss your project planning, risk management, and stakeholder communication techniques.
• Problem-Solving Scenarios: "Imagine a key AV component fails during a critical client presentation. How would you troubleshoot and resolve the issue, and what steps would you take to prevent recurrence?" Focus on your diagnostic process and preventative measures.
• Client Relationship Management: "How do you handle conflicting client requirements or feedback on your designs?" Prepare to discuss your approach to managing expectations and finding collaborative solutions.

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Cushman & Wakefield and our role in supporting client operations?" Research the company's services and values.
• "How do you see yourself fitting into a client-site, remote work environment?" Demonstrate your ability to be self-motivated, communicate effectively, and integrate with client teams.
• "Describe your ideal team environment and how you contribute to team success." Highlight your collaboration and communication skills.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Presentation: Organize your portfolio by project, with a clear introduction, problem statement, your solution (including technical drawings and specifications), challenges faced, and the successful outcome.
• Focus on Impact: Emphasize the business value and operational improvements your AV solutions provided to previous clients.
• Be Prepared for Technical Questions: Anticipate detailed questions about the technologies, design choices, and implementation challenges in your portfolio projects.
• Practice Your Delivery: Rehearse your presentation to ensure it is concise, engaging, and within the allotted time.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong understanding of AV technology, project management principles, and client-centric operations. The portfolio review is a critical component, so practicing the presentation and anticipating technical questions is essential.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided career portal link on the Cushman & Wakefield website.
• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your experience with AV design, project management, AutoCAD, and Revit, using keywords from the job description. Prepare your portfolio with clear examples of your technical designs and project management achievements.
• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly outlines your 5-8 years of combined IT and AV experience, emphasizing quantifiable achievements in system design, project delivery, and vendor management.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Cushman & Wakefield's services, client base, and any publicly available information on their approach to technology and facilities management. Understand their commitment to client success.
• Interview Practice: Practice answering common interview questions related to AV technology, project management, problem-solving, and client interaction. Prepare to present your portfolio effectively, focusing on your role and the impact of your work.

⚠️ 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.