Design Manager 2

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager 2 Company: J.E. Dunn Construction Group Inc P Location: Nashville, TN; Atlanta, GA; Kansas City, MO Job Type: Full-time Category: Design & Construction Operations Date Posted: July 27, 2025 Experience Level: 10+ years

🚀 Role Summary

• Manages the design process from business development through project completion, ensuring successful project delivery by organizing design participants, process, and technology.
• Collaborates with project teams, clients, architects, and trade partners, especially on projects utilizing design-build or design-assist methods.
• Provides technical design guidance and quality control throughout the construction lifecycle, ensuring compliance with codes, criteria, and project goals.
• Focuses on identifying and mitigating project risks and opportunities, generating cost savings, and delivering value-added solutions during the design phase.
• Plays an integral role in client relations and stakeholder management, influencing decisions that impact project cost, schedule, and budget.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the input title is "Design Manager 2", the core responsibilities and qualifications align with a senior operations role focused on the design and pre-construction phases of large-scale construction projects, particularly within the Advanced Facilities Group (AFG) specializing in mission-critical, advanced industries, data centers, and semiconductor projects. This role requires a blend of technical design understanding, project management, and client-facing skills, crucial for operational success in complex construction environments.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Interpret formal design-build RFPs and develop comprehensive work plans in collaboration with preconstruction, operations, and other key stakeholders.
• Assist in creating conceptual plans, elevations, and 3D models to support client presentations and win strategies, aligning with potential client business needs.
• Review bridging documents for project compliance with RFPs, including thorough comprehension of codes and criteria to meet technical requirements and design deliverables.
• Support early-phase due diligence activities with clients and stakeholders, ensuring professional studies and jurisdictional/permitting requirements are integrated into design documents.
• Manage outside design consultants, ensuring they meet both technical and schedule requirements for design deliverables, and oversee their cost management for added scope.
• Lead the design review process with design teams and clients, meticulously tracking schedules, identifying project risks and opportunities, and ensuring quality control.
• Leverage extensive design experience to identify solutions for project-specific challenges, closely monitoring design schedules, quality control, and the content of design document delivery.
• Generate cost savings and value-added solutions during the design phase, proactively monitoring and controlling the design partner's and consultant's costs.
• Conduct quality control reviews of design documents to ensure program specifications and life-safety requirements are met, and coordinate design document packaging strategies with the project team.
• Manage project documentation, including proposals, drawings, specifications, reports, calculations, and shop drawings, utilizing both 3D and 2D file management systems.
• Coordinate with the Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) team to develop and implement project strategies as needed, providing technical design guidance throughout the entire construction process.
• Provide design engineering support across the full project lifecycle: proposal, site survey, engineering, equipment selection, permitting, training, and construction.
• Collaborate with the construction operations team on technical design reviews, assessing constructability, quantity takeoffs, and providing recommendations on construction phasing.
• Negotiate pricing, scopes of work, and contract terms for designers and design consultants, supporting the pre-qualification and selection process for design professionals.
• Provide ongoing construction feedback to clients and hold architect and design partners accountable for delivering on project strategy, ensuring project requirements and client expectations are met from a design perspective.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities indicate a significant focus on the pre-construction and early design phases, emphasizing the "operations" aspect of managing processes, stakeholders, and deliverables before physical construction begins. The role requires a deep understanding of construction contracts, client negotiation, and risk management within the design context.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Engineering, or a related field is required.

Experience:

• Minimum of 8 years of experience in design and/or construction management is preferred.
• Demonstrated cross-functional knowledge of key engineering disciplines, including Architectural, Structural, Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP), and relevant trades.
• Proven experience in managing projects from conceptual design through construction, effectively working with both internal teams and external partners.
• Experience in Industrial Manufacturing, data center, semiconductor, or heavy industry project environments is highly preferred.

Required Skills:

• Design Management: Proven ability to organize and manage the entire design process for complex construction projects.
• Project Management: Strong capabilities in planning, executing, and closing projects, with a focus on design deliverables and timelines.
• Communication Skills: Intermediate written and verbal communication skills, essential for client interaction, team collaboration, and stakeholder management.
• AutoCAD & Revit Proficiency: Demonstrated proficiency with AutoCAD, Revit, and/or Google SketchUp for design visualization and documentation.
• Lean Process Application: Intermediate ability to apply Lean principles and philosophy to optimize design and construction processes.
• Technical Design Guidance: Ability to provide expert technical design input throughout the project lifecycle.
• Budget & Schedule Management: Strong skills in managing project budgets and schedules, maximizing profitability, and steering projects in line with contractual details.
• Collaboration & Relationship Building: Ability to build strong relationships and collaborate effectively within project teams, both internally and externally with clients and consultants.
• Problem Solving: Capacity to think in a highly structured manner across design disciplines while creatively developing specialized solutions and anticipating potential challenges.
• Quality Control: Ability to review design documents and provide quality control comments to ensure program specifications and life-safety requirements are met.
• Client Relations: Skill in working with clients to ensure project requirements are fulfilled and expectations are met from a design standpoint.
• Risk Management: Ability to identify project risks and opportunities throughout the design phase and develop mitigation strategies.

Preferred Skills:

• U.S. Building Design Codes: Thorough knowledge of U.S. building design codes and material-specific standards.
• Design Discipline Expertise: Conversant with linked design disciplines such as Geotechnical/Civil, Architecture, Building Façade, Structural, MEP, Data/Communications, Vertical Transportation, Acoustics, and Fire and Life Safety.
• VDC Integration: Experience coordinating with VDC teams for project implementation.
• Industry Trends: Technical market expertise with knowledge of industry trends and innovations, particularly in advanced facilities.
• Contract Negotiation: Experience negotiating pricing, scopes of work, and contract terms for design consultants.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience requirement of 8+ years, coupled with the need for cross-functional knowledge and specific project type experience (Industrial Manufacturing, data centers), suggests this is a mid-to-senior level operations role critical for the Advanced Facilities Group. The emphasis on specific software like Revit and AutoCAD, along with building codes, points to a need for practical, hands-on technical understanding within the operational framework.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Process Documentation: Showcase examples of managed design processes, including planning, execution, and delivery phases, highlighting workflow optimization and adherence to project scopes.
• Project Deliverable Samples: Include redacted examples of design documents, RFP interpretations, work plans, conceptual sketches, and quality control review comments to demonstrate technical proficiency and attention to detail.
• Collaboration Case Studies: Present case studies illustrating successful collaboration with design teams, consultants, and clients, emphasizing communication strategies and conflict resolution in design challenges.
• Risk & Opportunity Management: Provide examples of how potential project risks and opportunities were identified, analyzed, and managed during the design phase, showcasing proactive problem-solving and strategic decision-making.
• Value Engineering & Cost Savings: Include documentation or case studies demonstrating contributions to cost savings and value-added solutions during the design development process.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Detail methodologies used for creating and optimizing design workflows, from initial RFP interpretation to final deliverable packaging, emphasizing efficiency and compliance.
• System Implementation & Management: Demonstrate experience in managing design documentation using 3D and 2D file management systems, and coordinating with VDC teams for project implementation.
• Performance Measurement & Analysis: Explain how design schedule adherence, quality control, and budget compliance were measured and analyzed, including reporting mechanisms and corrective actions taken.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, a portfolio should highlight structured approaches to managing the design lifecycle, demonstrating an ability to translate client needs into actionable design plans and oversee their execution. Evidence of successful navigation of complex construction projects, particularly in specialized sectors like data centers, is crucial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Given the "Design Manager 2" title, the required 8+ years of experience, the specific technical skills, and the nature of large-scale construction projects managed by J.E. Dunn, a typical salary range for this role in the specified locations (Nashville, TN; Atlanta, GA; Kansas City, MO) would likely fall between $100,000 - $140,000 annually. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for senior design management and construction project management roles in comparable metropolitan areas. Factors such as specific project complexity, candidate experience, and negotiation will influence the final offer.

Benefits:

• Professional Non-Union Benefits Package: As indicated, the company offers a specific benefits package aligned with professional non-union employees. This typically includes:
  • Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance.
  • Retirement Savings Plan (e.g., 401k) with potential company match.
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
  • Life Insurance and Disability Coverage.
  • Professional Development and Training Opportunities.
  • Potential for Performance-Based Bonuses.
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

Working Hours:

• Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week. However, the role explicitly states a willingness to work non-traditional hours to meet project needs, which is common in the construction industry, especially during critical project phases or to accommodate travel.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on industry standards for a Design Manager 2 role with the specified experience and responsibilities in the listed locations. The benefits information is derived from the provided link's context, indicating a standard professional package. The requirement for non-traditional hours is a key aspect of the operational demands in construction.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction & General Contracting. J.E. Dunn Construction is a major player in the U.S. construction industry, known for its diverse project portfolio including commercial, industrial, healthcare, education, and advanced facilities. Company Size: Large. J.E. Dunn Construction is a significant enterprise, employing thousands of individuals across various locations. This size implies a robust organizational structure, established processes, and ample resources for project execution. Founded: Over 100 years ago. This long history signifies stability, deep industry experience, and a proven track record of success and adaptation in the construction sector.

Team Structure:

• Advanced Facilities Group (AFG): This role is specifically within the AFG, which consolidates expertise in Mission Critical, Advanced Industries, and Industrial & Manufacturing projects. This specialized unit likely operates with a high degree of autonomy and technical focus.
• Project-Based Teams: Project teams are typically cross-functional, comprising individuals from operations, preconstruction, VDC, safety, and project management, all working collaboratively towards project goals.
• Reporting Structure: The Design Manager 2 likely reports to a Senior Design Manager, Director of Design, or a Project Executive, depending on the project's scale and organizational structure. They will also manage and guide external design consultants and potentially junior design staff.

Methodology:

• Client-Centric Approach: The company emphasizes understanding client business needs and ensuring project goals are achieved, highlighting a strong client-focused operational philosophy.
• Innovation & Technology: The mention of innovative tools and VDC integration suggests a commitment to leveraging technology for project efficiency and design excellence.
• Lean Principles: The requirement to be proficient in Lean process and philosophy indicates an operational focus on continuous improvement, waste reduction, and value creation.
• Collaboration & Culture: The company's core values revolve around "Best People + Right Culture," suggesting an emphasis on teamwork, inspired work, and employee well-being.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The context of the Advanced Facilities Group is critical. This unit likely tackles highly technical and complex projects, requiring a Design Manager with specialized knowledge and a proactive, collaborative approach to operations. The company's long history and emphasis on culture suggest a stable yet dynamic work environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Design Manager 2 represents a mid-to-senior level position within the operations and design management track. It implies a significant level of responsibility for managing complex design processes and stakeholders, with a focus on delivering successful project outcomes.

Reporting Structure: Typically, this role reports to a senior leader within the project management or operations hierarchy, such as a Senior Design Manager, Project Executive, or Director of Operations. They are expected to lead and influence project teams and external consultants.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager 2 has a direct and substantial impact on project success by ensuring the design phase is executed efficiently, cost-effectively, and in alignment with client objectives. Their ability to manage risks, generate cost savings, and maintain quality directly influences project profitability, client satisfaction, and the company's reputation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Design Manager / Director of Design: Progression to managing larger, more complex projects or a portfolio of design activities, potentially leading a team of Design Managers.
• Project Executive / Senior Project Manager: Transitioning into broader project leadership roles with P&L responsibility for entire projects or business units.
• Specialization: Deepening expertise within specific construction sectors like data centers or semiconductors, becoming a subject matter expert within the AFG.
• VDC Leadership: Moving into roles focused on the strategic implementation and management of Virtual Design and Construction technologies.
• Business Development: Leveraging design and project expertise to contribute to securing new projects and client relationships.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career advancement within a large, established construction firm, particularly within specialized, high-growth sectors. The focus on technical management and client relations prepares individuals for leadership positions in operations and project execution.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role will likely involve a hybrid work environment, splitting time between corporate offices and project sites. The description mentions assignment locations may include project sites and/or in the office.

Office Location(s): The position is open in Nashville, TN; Atlanta, GA; and Kansas City, MO. These locations likely serve as hubs for project management and client interaction.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Design Studios: Opportunities to work in environments where design teams and project stakeholders collaborate closely on project solutions.
• Project Site Presence: Regular involvement at active construction sites, requiring adaptability to dynamic and sometimes challenging environments.
• Technology Integration: Access to and utilization of advanced design and project management software, including VDC tools, within the workspace.
• Cross-functional Interaction: Frequent interaction with various internal departments (preconstruction, operations, safety) and external partners (architects, engineers, clients, subcontractors).

Work Schedule: While a standard 40-hour week is typical, the role requires flexibility, with the possibility of working non-traditional hours to meet project needs. This is a common operational reality in the construction industry, particularly for project-critical roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment demands adaptability, transitioning between office-based planning and on-site execution. The need to travel and work non-traditional hours highlights the operational demands and commitment required for success in this role.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: An HR or recruiter screen to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.
• Hiring Manager Interview: Discussion with the direct hiring manager to delve deeper into technical skills, project experience, and operational management approaches.
• Technical/Team Interview: Interviews with key team members or senior management to evaluate technical proficiency, problem-solving skills, and collaboration style. This may include a case study or design challenge.
• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior executive (e.g., VP of Operations, Project Executive) to assess strategic alignment and leadership potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Select Projects: Focus on 2-3 projects that best showcase your design management capabilities, particularly those in industrial, data center, or similar complex sectors.
• Highlight Process & Methodology: Clearly articulate your approach to managing the design process, including how you organized participants, managed schedules, controlled quality, and mitigated risks. Use flowcharts or diagrams if helpful.
• Quantify Achievements: Wherever possible, quantify your contributions. For example, "Reduced design phase duration by 15%," or "Identified cost savings of $X through value engineering."
• Showcase Problem-Solving: Include examples of how you tackled specific design challenges, collaborated with stakeholders to find solutions, and ensured successful project outcomes.
• Demonstrate Technical Proficiency: Include samples of your work, such as redacted drawings, conceptual sketches, or quality control review comment logs, to illustrate your technical understanding.
• Tailor to J.E. Dunn: Research J.E. Dunn's projects and values, and subtly tailor your presentation to align with their operational focus and culture.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Scenario Analysis: Be prepared for hypothetical scenarios involving design conflicts, schedule delays, or budget overruns. Practice articulating structured problem-solving approaches.
• Constructability Review: Expect questions or tasks related to assessing design constructability and offering operational improvements.
• Client Communication: Practice how you would communicate complex design issues or decisions to clients and stakeholders.
• Lean Implementation: Be ready to discuss how you would apply Lean principles to the design process.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a role like this is likely rigorous, focusing on both technical expertise and operational leadership. A well-structured portfolio that clearly demonstrates experience in managing complex design processes and delivering tangible results will be critical for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD/BIM Software: Proficiency expected in AutoCAD and Revit is explicitly stated. Experience with Google SketchUp is also mentioned. These are fundamental for design visualization, documentation, and collaboration.
• Project Management Software: While not explicitly named, experience with project management platforms (e.g., Procore, Autodesk Construction Cloud, Microsoft Project) is highly probable for managing schedules, documents, and team communication.
• File Management Systems: Experience with both 3D and 2D file management systems for organizing project documentation.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Cost Management Tools: Familiarity with tools for monitoring and controlling design consultant costs and project budgets.
• Scheduling Software: Proficiency in scheduling tools to track design milestones and consultant progress.
• Reporting Dashboards: Ability to utilize or contribute to dashboards that track design phase performance, risks, and quality metrics.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: While not directly for sales, understanding client relationship management principles is key for client interaction.
• Automation Tools: Experience with automation in design workflows or project management processes would be beneficial, though not explicitly required.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technical requirements center on BIM and CAD software. A candidate's ability to integrate these tools into a broader project management and operational framework will be assessed. Familiarity with construction-specific project management software is a strong plus.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Inspired People + Right Culture: This is the overarching value, emphasizing the importance of attracting and retaining talented individuals who thrive in a collaborative and supportive environment.
• Building Perfection: A commitment to high-quality execution and excellence in all aspects of construction, including the design phase.
• Data-Driven Decision Making: While not explicitly stated for this role, operations professionals are expected to use data to inform decisions, manage performance, and drive efficiency.
• Efficiency & Continuous Improvement: A focus on optimizing processes, reducing waste (Lean principles), and consistently improving outcomes.
• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding ethical standards and taking ownership of responsibilities throughout the project lifecycle.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Strong emphasis on working seamlessly with various internal teams (preconstruction, operations, VDC) and external partners (clients, architects, engineers, subcontractors).
• Proactive Communication: Initiating conversations about potential issues to foster a collaborative problem-solving environment.
• Feedback Loops: Openness to providing and receiving feedback to enhance design quality and project execution.
• Knowledge Sharing: Willingness to share expertise and best practices to support team growth and project success.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture appears to be people-centric and focused on quality and efficiency. A candidate who demonstrates strong interpersonal skills, a collaborative spirit, and a commitment to continuous improvement will likely align well with J.E. Dunn's operational values.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Complex Design Deliverables: Ensuring that intricate design requirements for specialized projects (e.g., data centers) are met accurately and on time.
• Balancing Stakeholder Interests: Effectively navigating and aligning the diverse needs and expectations of clients, design teams, and internal stakeholders.
• Risk Mitigation in Design: Proactively identifying and managing potential design-related risks that could impact project cost, schedule, or quality.
• Technological Integration: Staying current with and effectively implementing evolving VDC and design technologies within project workflows.
• Travel Demands: Adapting to potentially extensive travel requirements for project sites and client meetings.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Project Exposure: Working on cutting-edge projects within the Advanced Facilities Group, providing exposure to unique construction methodologies and technologies.
• Mentorship Programs: Opportunities to learn from experienced senior leaders within J.E. Dunn's extensive network.
• Industry Training & Certifications: Potential support for professional development, including industry conferences, workshops, and relevant certifications.
• Cross-Disciplinary Skill Development: Gaining deeper insights into various engineering disciplines and their interplay within complex projects.
• Leadership Development: Opportunities to develop leadership skills through managing teams, client relationships, and project operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for senior roles in complex construction projects, offering significant opportunities for skill enhancement and professional growth. The company's investment in its people suggests a supportive environment for career development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Process Management: "Describe your process for managing a design-build project from RFP to construction documents. What are the critical checkpoints and deliverables?" (Focus on structured workflow, quality checks, and stakeholder engagement.)
• Stakeholder Collaboration: "How do you handle disagreements between a client and a design consultant regarding project scope or technical requirements?" (Emphasize communication, negotiation, and finding mutually agreeable solutions.)
• Problem Solving & Efficiency: "Walk me through a time you identified a significant design challenge that impacted the project budget or schedule. How did you address it, and what was the outcome?" (Highlight problem-solving methodology, data analysis, and implemented solutions.)
• Company Alignment: "What do you know about J.E. Dunn's Advanced Facilities Group, and why are you interested in contributing your design management expertise to our specialized projects?" (Research AFG's projects and articulate how your skills align with their operational needs.)
• Team Dynamics: "Describe your ideal working relationship with a project team, including operations, preconstruction, and VDC specialists." (Focus on collaboration, proactive communication, and shared goal alignment.)
• Metrics & Impact: "How do you measure the success of the design phase, and how do you communicate that success (or areas for improvement) to project stakeholders?" (Prepare to discuss KPIs like schedule adherence, budget compliance, quality metrics, and client satisfaction.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• Research J.E. Dunn's recent projects, particularly within the AFG. Understand their mission, values, and approach to construction.
• Be prepared to discuss your preferred work style and how you contribute to a positive team culture, referencing J.E. Dunn's "Best People + Right Culture" philosophy.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Concise Storytelling: For each project, clearly state the objective, your role, the key challenges, the actions you took (your process), and the measurable results.
• Visual Aids: Use clear, professional visuals (redacted drawings, charts, timelines) to support your narrative.
• Quantify Impact: Emphasize the "so what?" – how did your actions contribute to cost savings, schedule improvements, quality enhancements, or client satisfaction?
• Interactive Discussion: Be ready to answer in-depth questions about your process, decisions, and contributions, demonstrating a deep understanding of the operations involved.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to analyze a given design scenario, identify potential issues, propose solutions, and discuss implementation steps, focusing on constructability and operational efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a structured, proactive, and collaborative approach to design management, emphasizing how your operational skills contribute to project success and align with J.E. Dunn's values.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager 2 position:

• Submit your application through the J.E. Dunn Careers portal using the provided URL.
• Portfolio Customization: Prepare a portfolio that highlights your experience in managing design processes for complex construction projects. Focus on showcasing your ability to interpret RFPs, manage consultants, ensure quality control, and mitigate risks. Include quantifiable achievements where possible.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to emphasize keywords and responsibilities mentioned in the job description, such as "design management," "project delivery," "AutoCAD," "Revit," "Lean process," "stakeholder management," and experience in "industrial manufacturing" or "data centers." Clearly outline your years of experience and relevant project types.
• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design management methodology, problem-solving skills, and collaborative approach. Be ready to discuss specific project examples that demonstrate your capabilities in managing budgets, schedules, and quality.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with J.E. Dunn's Advanced Facilities Group, their project portfolio, and their company culture. Understand their commitment to "Best People + Right Culture" and how your operational approach aligns with their values.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with J.E. Dunn Construction Group Inc P before making application decisions.