Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager

Company: Better Living Components Inc

Location: Charlottesville, VA (On-site)

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Operations Management / GTM Support (Design & Estimating)

Date Posted: March 21, 2026

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversee and lead a team of structural component designers, focusing on wood trusses and wall panels, ensuring high-quality output and efficient workflow management.

• Manage the end-to-end design process, from initial customer request through to final quote generation, integrating technical design with pricing and estimating.

• Drive operational efficiency within the design department by leveraging specialized software and optimizing team performance.

• Serve as a key liaison between customers, production, and sales teams, translating technical requirements and facilitating clear communication.

• Uphold high standards of customer service and technical accuracy in all design and quoting activities.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Design Manager," the responsibilities heavily lean into operational management within a GTM context, specifically sales engineering and estimating. The role requires managing a technical team, workflow, and client-facing communication to support sales and production, aligning it with GTM operations.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Team Leadership & Development:

  • Lead, mentor, and coach a team of structural component designers, fostering a collaborative and high-performance environment.
  • Provide guidance and training to designers of varying experience levels to ensure consistent skill development and adherence to company standards.
  • Conduct performance reviews, set individual goals, and identify professional development opportunities for team members.

• Design Workflow & Project Management:

  • Manage the intake and prioritization of all incoming design requests, ensuring timely assignment to appropriate team members.
  • Oversee the entire design lifecycle, from initial concept and schematic development to detailed structural component design (truss and wall panels).
  • Implement and refine design processes to improve efficiency, reduce turnaround times, and enhance accuracy.
  • Monitor project progress and proactively identify/resolve bottlenecks to ensure on-time delivery of design packages.

• Pricing, Estimating & Quoting:

  • Develop and manage product pricing strategies for structural components, ensuring competitiveness within the building materials market.
  • Oversee the accurate and competitive estimation of costs associated with component designs.
  • Review and approve final quotes generated by the team, ensuring alignment with pricing guidelines and customer requirements.

• Software & Technical Oversight:

  • Ensure proficient and effective utilization of MiTek Structure and MiTek Management software by the design team.
  • Review design outputs for technical accuracy, code compliance, and adherence to project specifications.
  • Stay abreast of updates and advancements in design software and industry best practices, recommending improvements as needed.

• Cross-Functional Communication & Customer Engagement:

  • Act as the primary technical point of contact for customers, addressing inquiries, clarifying technical requirements, and discussing design solutions.

  • Collaborate closely with internal production teams to ensure designs are manufacturable and align with production capabilities.

  • Liaise with the sales team to provide technical support, assist with complex proposals, and ensure smooth handoffs from quoting to order fulfillment.

  • Facilitate internal communication, providing updates on design progress, project status, and any potential issues.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities have been expanded to detail the operational aspects of managing a design team in a GTM context, emphasizing workflow, pricing, and cross-functional collaboration, which are critical for this type of role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Civil, Structural, Mechanical), Architecture, Construction Management, or a related technical field is preferred.

Experience:

• Minimum of 5-10 years of progressive experience in structural component design, with a significant focus on wood trusses and/or wall panels.

• Proven experience in a team leadership or management role, demonstrating the ability to mentor, guide, and develop technical professionals.

Required Skills:

• Technical Proficiency: Mandatory expertise in MiTek Structure and MiTek Management software. This is a non-negotiable requirement for design review and departmental data management.

• Structural Design Expertise: Deep understanding of structural component design principles, specifically for wood trusses and wall panels, including load calculations, material properties, and building codes.

• Team Leadership & Management: Demonstrated ability to lead, motivate, and manage a team of engineers or designers, including performance management and professional development.

• Workflow Optimization: Proven ability to manage and optimize design workflows, ensuring efficiency, accuracy, and timely delivery of projects.

• Customer & Stakeholder Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively translate complex technical information for diverse audiences (customers, sales, production).

• Pricing & Estimating Acumen: Solid understanding of pricing strategies and estimating processes within the building materials sector.

Preferred Skills:

• Project Management: Experience with project management methodologies and tools to track multiple design projects simultaneously.

• Business Acumen: Understanding of P&L statements, cost analysis, and how design decisions impact overall business profitability.

• CAD Software Proficiency: Familiarity with other relevant CAD software beyond MiTek for design visualization or collaboration.

• Lean Manufacturing/Process Improvement: Knowledge of Lean principles or other process improvement methodologies to drive operational excellence.

📝 Enhancement Note: The skills have been categorized as required and preferred, with a strong emphasis on the mandatory MiTek software proficiency due to its explicit mention in the source description. Operations-focused skills like workflow optimization and pricing acumen are highlighted.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Case Studies in Design Workflow Optimization: Showcase examples of how you've improved design processes, reduced turnaround times, or enhanced team efficiency. Quantify impacts with metrics where possible.

• Examples of Technical Design Excellence: Present samples of complex truss or wall panel designs you have overseen or contributed to, demonstrating accuracy, adherence to standards, and problem-solving.

• Leadership & Team Development Documentation: Provide evidence of your leadership approach, such as training programs you've implemented, team performance improvements, or mentorship initiatives.

• Process Improvement Initiatives: Detail instances where you identified inefficiencies and implemented solutions, including the tools and methodologies used (e.g., workflow mapping, software utilization).

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design and Optimization: Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience in mapping, analyzing, and redesigning design workflows to enhance throughput and quality.

• System Implementation and Management: Be ready to share experiences with implementing or managing design software (like MiTek) and ensuring its effective adoption and utilization by a team.

• Performance Measurement and Analysis: Demonstrate how you track and analyze design team performance, customer satisfaction, and pricing accuracy to drive continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio requirements are tailored to a management role in a technical design/estimating function, focusing on process improvement, leadership, and the application of specialized software.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $90,000 – $105,000 per year

Explanation of Range: This salary range is competitive for a Design Manager position with 5-10 years of experience in the Charlottesville, VA area, considering the specialized technical requirements (MiTek software) and management responsibilities. The range reflects the blend of technical expertise, leadership, and operational oversight required for this role.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical and Dental insurance plans to support employee well-being.

• Retirement Savings Plan: 401k plan to assist with long-term financial planning.

• Relocation Assistance: Provided for the right candidate, indicating the company's commitment to securing top talent and easing the transition.

• Paid Time Off: (Assumed standard for full-time roles, details typically provided during the interview process).

• Professional Development: Opportunities for training and growth within the company.

Working Hours:

• Typically 40 hours per week, standard business hours (e.g., Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM).

• Occasional flexibility may be required to meet project deadlines or customer needs, especially during peak periods.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary information was directly extracted. Benefits and working hours are standard assumptions for a full-time role of this level, with relocation assistance being a specific perk mentioned.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Building Materials Manufacturing / Component Manufacturing (Specializing in structural components like trusses and wall panels).

Company Size: The exact size isn't specified, but "Better Living Components Inc" suggests a medium-sized enterprise that has grown to require specialized management roles. It's likely to be large enough to have dedicated design, sales, and production departments.

Founded: No specific founding date is provided.

Team Structure:

• Design Department: This role leads a team of designers responsible for structural component design. The team likely includes individuals with varying levels of experience.

• Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will likely report to a Director of Operations, VP of Manufacturing, or a similar senior leadership role.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: The role necessitates close collaboration with Sales (for quoting and customer needs), Production (for manufacturing feasibility and execution), and potentially Procurement/Supply Chain (for material considerations).

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Emphasis on using specialized software (MiTek Structure) for accurate and efficient design and data management.

• Customer-Centric Operations: A focus on meeting customer technical requirements and providing competitive quotes to drive sales.

• Process Standardization: The need for defined workflows and standards to ensure consistency and quality across the design team.

Company Website: betterlivingcomponents.com (Inferred from domain_derived)

📝 Enhancement Note: Company context is inferred from the job title, industry keywords, and the nature of the responsibilities. The focus is on how these elements shape the operational environment for a Design Manager.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position represents a mid-to-senior level management role within the operations and GTM support function. It requires a blend of deep technical expertise in structural design and proven leadership capabilities. The scope includes direct team management, process oversight, and significant contribution to the company's sales and production efficiency.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager typically reports to a higher-level operations executive (e.g., Director of Operations, VP of Manufacturing) and manages a team of designers. This position acts as a crucial bridge between technical design execution and broader business objectives.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager plays a critical role in the Go-To-Market strategy by ensuring accurate, competitive, and timely design proposals. Their team's efficiency directly impacts sales conversion rates, project timelines, and production costs. Effective management of this function can lead to increased revenue, reduced material waste, and improved customer satisfaction.

Growth Opportunities:

• Advancement to Director Roles: Potential to move into positions like Director of Operations, Director of Engineering, or VP of Manufacturing, overseeing larger departments or broader operational functions.

• Specialization in Process Improvement: Opportunity to focus on driving operational excellence initiatives, such as implementing new technologies or Lean manufacturing principles across the organization.

• Cross-Functional Leadership: Potential to transition into roles with broader GTM responsibilities, leveraging a strong understanding of product design and customer needs.

• Industry Expertise Development: Continued learning and development in structural design, building codes, and manufacturing technologies, becoming a subject matter expert.

📝 Enhancement Note: This analysis focuses on the career trajectory and impact of a management role within a technical operations function, linking it to broader GTM and operational leadership paths.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role, likely within a professional office setting that is co-located with or adjacent to manufacturing or production facilities. This proximity facilitates direct communication and collaboration with production teams.

Office Location(s): Charlottesville, VA (Specific address: 2553 Proffit Rd, Charlottesville, VA 22911-5702). This location is noted as the primary work environment.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The workspace is designed to foster interaction with the design team, as well as frequent communication with sales and production personnel.

• Technology-Rich: Access to specialized design software (MiTek Structure, MiTek Management) and standard office technology is essential.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for daily interaction with direct reports, peers in sales and production, and senior management.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is expected to be 40 hours per week, typically Monday through Friday during business hours.

• Some flexibility may be required to manage urgent customer requests or production demands, but the primary expectation is adherence to a structured workday.

📝 Enhancement Note: The description focuses on the physical and collaborative aspects of an on-site role in a manufacturing-adjacent environment, emphasizing the integration needed for operations and GTM functions.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Application Review: Initial screening of resumes and applications to assess technical qualifications (MiTek proficiency, design experience) and leadership background.

2. Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the hiring manager to delve into leadership style, team management experience, operational philosophy, and understanding of the design process.

3. Technical/Team Interview: This may involve a technical assessment, a review of portfolio examples, or an interview with key team members or peers from sales/production to evaluate technical depth and collaborative fit.

4. Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership to discuss strategic alignment, long-term vision for the design department, and overall cultural fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase MiTek Expertise: Clearly demonstrate your proficiency and strategic application of MiTek Structure and MiTek Management software. Highlight any custom configurations or advanced features you've utilized.

• Quantify Design Impact: For each case study, emphasize measurable outcomes such as reduced design time, fewer errors, cost savings in materials, or improved customer satisfaction scores. Use numbers and percentages.

• Highlight Leadership in Action: Present examples of how you've mentored designers, resolved team conflicts, implemented new processes, or improved overall team performance.

• Structure for Clarity: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type, responsibility area (leadership, process improvement), or by showcasing specific MiTek functionalities. Use clear headings and concise descriptions.

• Focus on Problem/Solution/Result: For process improvement examples, clearly outline the problem, the solution you implemented (including your role), and the resulting positive impact.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Scenario Exercise: Be prepared for a hypothetical scenario involving a complex customer request, a design bottleneck, or a team performance issue. Outline your approach to diagnosing the problem and proposing solutions.

• Process Improvement Proposal: You might be asked to outline how you would approach improving a specific aspect of the design or quoting process within a given timeframe.

• Stakeholder Management Discussion: Expect questions about how you would handle disagreements between sales and production regarding design specifications or timelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process and portfolio advice are tailored to a management role requiring both technical software skills and leadership, emphasizing practical, results-oriented preparation.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• MiTek Structure: The core software for structural component design (trusses, wall panels). Essential for creating, analyzing, and modifying designs. Proficiency is mandatory.

• MiTek Management: Software for managing design data, workflows, projects, and potentially customer information within the MiTek ecosystem. Crucial for operational oversight and team management.

Analytics & Reporting:

• MiTek Management Reporting Features: Likely includes built-in tools for tracking design queues, project status, and team output.

• Spreadsheet Software (e.g., Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets): For custom data analysis, performance tracking, pricing calculations, and generating reports not covered by specialized software.

• Business Intelligence (BI) Tools (Potential): Depending on company infrastructure, may use tools like Tableau, Power BI, or similar for more advanced dashboarding and reporting on departmental KPIs.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) System (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot, or internal system): To manage customer interactions, track leads, and understand project history. The Design Manager will likely interact with CRM data for quoting and customer communication.

• Project Management Software (Potential): Tools like Asana, Trello, Monday.com, or Jira might be used for internal task management and workflow visualization, complementing MiTek Management.

• ERP System (Potential): An Enterprise Resource Planning system may be in place for broader business operations, which the design and quoting processes would integrate with.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section focuses on the specific software mentioned (MiTek) and related operational tools common in manufacturing and GTM environments, highlighting their relevance to the Design Manager's role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Accuracy & Precision: A fundamental value in structural design and estimating, ensuring that all outputs are technically sound and meet exact specifications.

• Efficiency & Throughput: Driving operational excellence by optimizing workflows and leveraging technology to deliver designs and quotes promptly.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive environment where designers, sales, and production work cohesively towards shared business goals.

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs and technical requirements to build strong relationships and secure business.

• Continuous Improvement: Encouraging a mindset of learning, adaptation, and seeking better ways to perform tasks and solve problems.

Collaboration Style:

• Integrative: The Design Manager must act as a central hub, seamlessly integrating input from sales (customer needs, market demands) with the capabilities of production (manufacturing constraints, material availability).

• Proactive Communication: Encouraging open and frequent communication channels to prevent misunderstandings and resolve issues early.

• Feedback-Driven: Establishing a culture where constructive feedback is welcomed and used to refine designs, processes, and team performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: Values and collaboration styles are inferred based on the nature of the role, the industry, and the need for operational efficiency and GTM alignment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Technical Demands with Management: Juggling the need for deep technical oversight with the responsibilities of team leadership, workflow management, and strategic planning.

• Managing Diverse Skill Sets: Effectively leading and developing a team with designers of varying experience levels, ensuring consistent quality and output.

• Rapidly Evolving Technology: Keeping pace with updates and advancements in MiTek software and other relevant design/manufacturing technologies.

• Cross-Departmental Alignment: Ensuring seamless communication and alignment between design, sales, and production, especially when priorities or requirements conflict.

• Maintaining Competitive Pricing: Balancing the need for accurate costing with market pressures to offer competitive quotes without sacrificing profitability.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced MiTek Training: Pursuing specialized certifications or advanced training modules for MiTek Structure and MiTek Management.

• Leadership Development Programs: Participating in company-sponsored or external leadership training to enhance management and strategic planning skills.

• Industry Conferences & Seminars: Attending building materials, manufacturing, or structural engineering events to stay current on trends and best practices.

• Process Improvement Methodologies: Gaining expertise in Lean, Six Sigma, or other operational efficiency frameworks.

• Mentorship: Potentially receiving mentorship from senior operations leaders within the company or industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges are identified based on common issues in management roles within technical, manufacturing-adjacent environments, while growth opportunities focus on skill enhancement relevant to operations and leadership.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to managing and motivating a team of technical designers with varying levels of experience. How do you ensure consistent quality and output?" (Focus on leadership style, performance management, and training strategies).

• "Walk me through how you would optimize the design and quoting workflow for structural components, from initial customer inquiry to final quote delivery. What metrics would you track?" (Highlight process mapping, bottleneck identification, and KPI setting).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Based on your understanding of Better Living Components Inc., what do you see as the biggest opportunities for the design department to contribute to the company's growth and success?" (Show research on the company and industry, and align your vision with business objectives).

• "How do you foster a culture of continuous improvement and innovation within a technical team?" (Discuss your approach to encouraging new ideas, implementing feedback, and driving efficiency).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• MiTek Showcase: Dedicate a segment to demonstrating your practical application of MiTek Structure and Management. Use visuals or specific examples of complex designs or workflow improvements achieved with the software.

• Quantifiable Achievements: For each case study on process improvement or team leadership, present clear, quantifiable results (e.g., "Reduced average design turnaround time by 15%," "Improved quote accuracy by 98%").

• Problem-Solution-Result Framework: Structure your portfolio examples using this clear narrative: identify a problem, explain your solution (including your leadership role), and detail the positive outcome.

• Concise and Focused: Be prepared to present your portfolio efficiently, highlighting the most relevant examples that align with the job requirements. Avoid overwhelming the interviewers with too much detail.

📝 Enhancement Note: These interview questions and preparation tips are designed to probe the candidate's operational, leadership, and technical capabilities, specifically as they relate to managing a design team within a GTM context.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Paylocity recruiting portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Prepare a concise portfolio that highlights your experience with MiTek Structure and MiTek Management, along with examples of workflow optimization, team leadership, and quantifiable results in design and estimating.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to emphasize leadership experience, structural component design (trusses, wall panels), process management, and proficiency with the required software. Use keywords from the job description.

• Interview Preparation: Practice answering behavioral and situational questions related to team management, process improvement, and cross-functional collaboration. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your experience.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Better Living Components Inc., its products, and its position within the building materials industry. Understand their potential operational challenges and how your skills can address them.

⚠️ 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.