Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager

Company: Hendricks Commercial Properties/Geronimo Hospitality Group

Location: Beloit, Wisconsin, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Design Management / Architecture & Engineering Operations

Date Posted: April 04, 2026

Experience Level: 3-5 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversees the planning, organization, and execution of design projects from conceptualization through to completion, ensuring high-quality technical outputs.

• Manages the production of technical drawings and plans, coordinating closely with architects and engineers to meet project deadlines and quality standards.

• Acts as a key liaison between Development, Leasing, and Construction divisions, interpreting and translating conceptual designs into actionable plans for various property types.

• Drives the day-to-day operations of specific projects, focusing on efficient workflow and timely delivery of design documentation, while not dictating overall company policy.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Design Manager," the responsibilities and required tools (Revit, AutoCAD, etc.) strongly indicate a role focused on the operational and technical aspects of design within the broader real estate development context. This role emphasizes the execution and coordination of design deliverables rather than pure strategic design leadership or people management, aligning it more with an operations-focused position within a design or development department. The emphasis on "CEO of your job" and driving "day-to-day operations" highlights a need for an individual who can autonomously manage project workflows.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the production of technical drawings and plans, ensuring they are coordinated with architectural and engineering work, delivered on time, and meet stringent quality benchmarks.

• Manage the daily operations and workflow for assigned projects, acting as the primary point of contact for design-related tasks from initial concept through to construction documentation handover.

• Collaborate with clients and internal stakeholders to develop Level of Development (LOD) definitions, space programs, and initial concept plans, guided by the VP of Architecture and Design.

• Track and manage internal and external design approval processes, ensuring all necessary sign-offs are obtained efficiently.

• Monitor and report on Architectural & Engineering (A&E) associated costs, maintaining accountability for budget adherence throughout the design phases.

• Ensure all designs comply with current Building Codes and relevant regulations, staying updated on any changes.

• Facilitate conceptual design discussions, translating stakeholder ideas into 3D forms (via software or sketching) and refining them through project team meetings until ready for construction documentation.

• Interpret tenant space plan ideas and translate them into practical, buildable plans, demonstrating strong spatial reasoning and design visualization skills.

• Process, track, and report on all A&E-related costs, providing clear financial updates to relevant stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly point to a hands-on role focused on project execution and technical documentation within a real estate development environment. The emphasis on A&E cost tracking and building code compliance underscores the operational and regulatory aspects of this position, requiring a meticulous approach to project management and documentation.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• 3-5 years of progressive experience in design for Industrial, Office, Mixed-Use, and/or Hospitality/Food Service sectors.

Required Skills:

• Advanced proficiency in design software, including Revit, AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Photoshop.

• Strong command of the Microsoft Office Suite for reporting, communication, and project tracking.

• Expertise in producing technical drawings and plans with a thorough understanding of construction documentation requirements.

• Proven ability to interpret and collaborate on conceptual design processes, translating ideas into tangible plans.

• Knowledge of current Building Codes and regulatory compliance standards.

• Experience in tracking and reporting on Architectural & Engineering (A&E) costs.

Preferred Skills:

• Ability to travel to various project sites as required to support design and construction coordination.

• Experience working with clients to define space programs and concept plans.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required software proficiency (Revit, AutoCAD, SketchUp, Photoshop) is critical and indicates a need for a technically adept individual. The experience requirement of 3-5 years suggests an intermediate level, capable of independent work with guidance, rather than an entry-level or senior strategic role. The preference for travel indicates the on-site nature of the role and the need for site-specific design coordination.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a strong portfolio showcasing technical drawings and plans produced for industrial, office, mixed-use, or hospitality projects.

• Include examples of conceptual design development, illustrating the translation of initial ideas into refined plans.

• Showcase projects where you managed A&E costs and adhered to building codes and regulations.

Process Documentation:

• Provide examples of how you have documented design approval processes, including tracking and reporting on progress.

• Illustrate your approach to managing and reporting on A&E associated costs, demonstrating financial tracking capabilities.

• Show evidence of workflow management for design projects, from initial concept to construction document handover, emphasizing efficiency and quality control.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, a portfolio is crucial not just for showcasing design aesthetics but for demonstrating technical proficiency, project management capabilities in design execution, and adherence to processes like cost tracking and regulatory compliance. Candidates should be prepared to discuss the workflows and systems used to produce and manage design documentation.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Flexible work hours, offering a degree of autonomy in managing the workday.

• Employee Discounts on company products and services.

• Paid Time Off (PTO) for vacation, personal days, and sick leave.

• Comprehensive Training & Development Opportunities for skill enhancement and career growth.

• 401K Match program to support retirement savings.

• Medical Benefits package, likely including health, dental, and vision insurance.

• 24/7 Online Care for convenient access to medical professionals.

• Pet Insurance as a unique employee perk.

Working Hours:

• The role is expected to maintain standard full-time working hours, estimated at 40 hours per week, with potential for flexibility as indicated by the benefits.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on national averages for similar roles and adjusted for the specified location and experience level. The listed benefits are directly from the provided company information and are highlighted to showcase the employer's commitment to employee well-being and professional development, which can be attractive to operations professionals seeking a supportive work environment.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Real Estate Development, Hospitality, Commercial Properties. Hendricks Commercial Properties and Geronimo Hospitality Group operate within dynamic sectors that require a blend of strategic vision, operational efficiency, and strong stakeholder management. This industry context means a focus on project lifecycle management, client satisfaction, and maintaining high standards for physical assets.

Company Size: The combined entities of Hendricks Commercial Properties and Geronimo Hospitality Group suggest a mid-to-large-sized organization with multiple divisions and a significant portfolio of projects. This size implies a structured environment with established processes, but also opportunities for cross-functional collaboration and impact.

Founded: While the founding dates are not explicitly provided, the established nature of both entities suggests a company with a history and proven track record in its respective industries, likely fostering a culture of stability and expertise.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager will likely be part of a larger Architecture and Design department, reporting to the VP of Architecture and Design.

• The role involves close collaboration with Development Managers, Leasing Agents, and Construction Managers, indicating a matrixed or project-based team structure where cross-functional communication is key.

Methodology:

• Data Analysis & Insights: Design decisions will be informed by project requirements, client feedback, market trends, and building code compliance. Cost tracking and reporting are essential for data-driven financial oversight.

• Workflow Planning & Optimization: The role requires meticulous planning of design tasks, ensuring efficient handoffs between conceptualization, documentation, and construction phases.

• Automation & Efficiency: Leveraging design software like Revit and AutoCAD efficiently is crucial for optimizing design production and reducing errors.

Company Website: https://www.hendricksgroup.com/ (Assuming this is the primary domain for Hendricks Commercial Properties)

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's dual focus on commercial properties and hospitality suggests a diverse project portfolio. This requires adaptability and a broad understanding of different design considerations, from commercial leasing spaces to hotel and restaurant interiors. The emphasis on "valuing people" and "community thriving" points to a culture that prioritizes positive impact and employee well-being.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This Design Manager role is positioned at an intermediate level, requiring 3-5 years of experience. It's a hands-on, project-execution-focused position rather than a purely strategic or senior leadership role. The individual is expected to be proficient in technical design tools and processes, capable of managing daily project workflows with minimal direct supervision.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager reports to the VP of Architecture and Design. This reporting line provides access to senior leadership and strategic direction, while the role itself focuses on the tactical execution of design tasks and project coordination. Collaboration will be extensive with Development, Leasing, and Construction teams.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager directly impacts the success of real estate development projects by ensuring designs are technically sound, code-compliant, cost-effective, and aligned with client/tenant needs. Efficient design processes contribute to streamlined construction timelines and improved project profitability. The ability to translate conceptual ideas into buildable plans is a critical operational contribution.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Potential to deepen expertise in specific property types (e.g., hospitality, industrial) or advanced design software functionalities within the architecture and design department.

• Project Leadership: Progression to leading larger, more complex design projects or managing a portfolio of multiple projects simultaneously.

• Cross-Functional Transition: Opportunities to move into roles within Development, Construction Management, or Project Management, leveraging a strong understanding of the design process and its impact on other project phases.

• Advanced Degrees/Certifications: Pursuing further certifications (e.g., LEED) or advanced degrees could open doors to more senior technical or leadership roles within the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path here is likely focused on increasing project complexity, scope of responsibility, and potentially moving into broader project management roles within the development lifecycle. The company's emphasis on learning and development suggests a supportive environment for acquiring new skills relevant to these growth opportunities.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The company describes "beautifully designed offices, situated in dynamic downtown areas with access to great amenities." This suggests a modern, professional, and potentially collaborative office environment that enhances the daily work experience.

Office Location(s): The specific role is based in Beloit, Wisconsin. The company may have other locations, but this position is explicitly tied to the Beloit office. The description of dynamic downtown areas implies an accessible and amenity-rich urban setting.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Daily interaction with other departments (Development, Leasing, Construction) necessitates a collaborative workspace that facilitates communication and teamwork.

• Operations Tools & Technology: The workspace will be equipped with the necessary technology, including powerful workstations for running demanding design software like Revit and AutoCAD, alongside standard office productivity tools.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular team meetings, design reviews, and cross-functional project discussions are integral to the role, suggesting open-plan areas or meeting rooms conducive to such exchanges.

Work Schedule: While the core work is on-site, the mention of "flexible work hours" as a benefit suggests that while standard 40-hour weeks are expected, there might be some latitude in start/end times, provided project deadlines and team collaboration needs are met. This flexibility is beneficial for managing design workflows that may require focused, uninterrupted time.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "beautifully designed offices" and "great amenities" indicates a company that invests in its physical workspace, which can be a significant factor for employee satisfaction, especially for roles that require long hours at a computer. The description suggests a professional yet comfortable atmosphere.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a phone or video call with HR to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit. Be prepared to discuss your understanding of the Design Manager role and your interest in Hendricks Commercial Properties.

• Technical Interview: A meeting with the VP of Architecture and Design and potentially other team members (e.g., a Senior Designer or Construction Manager). This will focus on your technical skills, software proficiency (Revit, AutoCAD, etc.), and design process knowledge. Expect questions about how you handle specific design challenges and manage project workflows.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where you will present your portfolio. Be ready to walk through 2-3 key projects, explaining your role, the challenges faced, your solutions, and the outcomes. Focus on technical aspects, process, and any cost or code compliance considerations.

• Final Interview: May involve meeting with higher-level management or key stakeholders to assess overall fit, strategic thinking (within the scope of the role), and long-term potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best demonstrate your proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Photoshop, as well as your experience in industrial, office, or hospitality design.

• Focus on Process: For each project, clearly articulate the design process, including conceptualization, technical drawing production, code compliance checks, cost tracking, and coordination with other disciplines.

• Quantify Impact: Wherever possible, use metrics. For example, "Successfully managed A&E costs for Project X, staying 5% under budget," or "Ensured all design documents met Building Code Y, preventing delays in construction."

• 3D Visualization Examples: Highlight any examples where you translated concepts into 3D forms, whether through software renderings, detailed sketches, or 3D models.

• Tenant Buildout Experience: If applicable, showcase examples of interpreting and developing plans based on specific tenant requirements.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for a potential small design exercise or a detailed discussion about a hypothetical design scenario related to one of their project types.

• Practice explaining complex design concepts and technical details clearly and concisely to a non-design audience (e.g., Development or Leasing Managers).

• Think about how you would approach balancing design quality, project timelines, and budget constraints in a real-world development scenario.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is geared towards assessing technical competence and practical application of design skills within a project management framework. A strong portfolio that highlights process and quantifiable results will be key to advancing.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Revit: Essential for Building Information Modeling (BIM), creating parametric models, and generating detailed construction documents. Proficiency is expected for efficient design and coordination.

• AutoCAD: Crucial for 2D drafting, creating precise technical drawings, and maintaining compatibility with industry standards.

• SketchUp: Useful for rapid 3D conceptualization, massing studies, and quick visualization of design ideas.

• Photoshop: For image editing, rendering enhancements, and creating presentation materials.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Standard for all professional roles, including Word (documentation), Excel (cost tracking, data analysis), PowerPoint (presentations), and Outlook (communication).

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• No specific CRM or automation tools are mentioned for the Design Manager role itself, but understanding how design integrates with broader CRM (for client/tenant management) and project management/automation platforms used by Development or Construction teams would be beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technical requirements revolve around industry-standard architectural design software. Candidates must demonstrate strong practical skills in these tools, as they are fundamental to the daily execution of the role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• People-Centricity: A core value is "valuing people who value people." This translates to a culture where respect, collaboration, and mutual support are paramount. Operations professionals are expected to contribute positively to team dynamics.

• Impact & Achievement: The slogan "we didn’t come this far to only come this far" and "be the CEO of your job" emphasizes a drive for continuous improvement, making a tangible impact, and taking ownership of one's work. Operations professionals are encouraged to be proactive and results-oriented.

• Community Focus: The company aims to create environments where "communities thrive." This suggests a commitment to developing spaces that benefit the end-users and the broader community, influencing design and development decisions.

• Learning & Growth: "You’ll have the opportunity to teach what you know and learn what you don’t" highlights a culture of continuous learning, knowledge sharing, and professional development, crucial for operations roles that evolve with technology and best practices.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role necessitates daily interaction with Development, Leasing, and Construction divisions, indicating a highly collaborative environment where seamless communication and coordination are essential for project success.

• Process-Oriented Feedback: Expect a culture where processes are reviewed and refined. The Design Manager's role in translating concepts to construction documents involves iterative feedback loops with various stakeholders.

• Shared Project Goals: The emphasis on project completion and quality suggests a team that works towards common objectives, with open communication channels for problem-solving and decision-making.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture appears to balance a strong work ethic and drive for achievement with a genuine care for its employees and the communities it serves. Operations professionals who thrive in environments that value ownership, collaboration, and continuous improvement will likely find this a good fit.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Stakeholder Needs: Effectively translating diverse stakeholder requirements (clients, leasing, development, construction) into cohesive and constructible designs while adhering to budget and timelines.

• Technical Software Proficiency: Staying current with evolving features and best practices in complex design software like Revit and AutoCAD, and ensuring efficient utilization across projects.

• Code Compliance & Evolving Regulations: Keeping abreast of and ensuring adherence to ever-changing building codes and local regulations, which can impact design decisions and project timelines.

• Translating Conceptual to Technical: Bridging the gap between abstract conceptual designs and detailed, actionable construction documents, requiring strong visualization and technical documentation skills.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Software Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in Revit, AutoCAD, and other design software, potentially including BIM management or advanced rendering techniques.

• Industry Certifications: Pursuing certifications relevant to the real estate and construction industry, such as LEED accreditation, which can enhance sustainability design knowledge.

• Project Management Skills: Developing stronger project management capabilities through hands-on experience and potential internal training, preparing for roles with broader project oversight.

• Cross-Disciplinary Knowledge: Gaining a deeper understanding of development, leasing, and construction processes through close collaboration, broadening career options within the company.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for a design execution role within a development firm, emphasizing the need for strong technical, communication, and problem-solving skills. The growth opportunities are geared towards deepening technical expertise and expanding into project management.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Process & Management: "Describe your process for taking a conceptual design from initial client brief to a complete set of construction documents. How do you manage technical drawings, ensure quality, and coordinate with architects and engineers?" (Focus on workflow, software usage, and collaboration steps).

• Software Proficiency: "Walk us through your experience with Revit and AutoCAD. What are your favorite features for efficient design and documentation, and how have you used them to solve specific design problems?" (Be ready for specific tool-based questions).

• Cost & Code Management: "How do you approach tracking A&E costs throughout a project? Describe a time you had to ensure a design complied with complex building codes and what steps you took." (Highlight your methodical approach and attention to detail).

• Tenant Buildout Interpretation: "Imagine a potential tenant wants a specific layout for their retail space that seems challenging to implement. How would you approach understanding their needs and translating that into a feasible design plan?" (Demonstrate your ability to listen, interpret, and problem-solve creatively).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Hendricks Commercial Properties and Geronimo Hospitality Group, and this Design Manager role specifically?" (Research their recent projects and company values).

• "How do you approach collaboration with teams like Development, Leasing, and Construction? Provide an example of a successful cross-functional collaboration." (Showcase your teamwork and communication skills).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or chronologically. For each project, clearly state the objective, your role, the challenges, your solution (highlighting technical aspects), and the outcome.

• Highlight Technical Skills: Explicitly point out examples of your Revit, AutoCAD, and SketchUp work. Show detail in drawings, clarity in plans, and effectiveness of 3D visualizations.

• Quantify Achievements: If possible, use data to support your claims (e.g., project timelines met, budget adherence, specific code compliance achieved).

• Process Focus: Emphasize the how – how you managed the design process, how you coordinated with others, how you tracked costs, and how you ensured code compliance.

• Conciseness: Be prepared to present key projects within a set timeframe (e.g., 15-20 minutes), leaving ample time for Q&A.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating technical expertise, project execution capabilities, and an understanding of how design integrates into the broader real estate development lifecycle. Be ready to discuss specific software workflows and project management strategies.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the recruiting.paylocity.com platform.

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight experience with Revit, AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Photoshop. Clearly list your years of experience in industrial, office, mixed-use, or hospitality design. Use keywords from the job description such as "technical drawings," "space planning," "conceptual design," "building codes," and "A&E costs."

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Assemble a digital portfolio that showcases your best work, focusing on technical drawings, 3D visualizations, and examples of projects where you managed design processes, cost tracking, and code compliance. Be ready to discuss specific projects in detail.

• Research the Company: Familiarize yourself with Hendricks Commercial Properties and Geronimo Hospitality Group. Look at their recent projects, mission, and values. Understand their approach to development and hospitality.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare answers to common interview questions, particularly those related to your technical skills, project management approach, and how you handle collaboration and challenges. Practice presenting your portfolio concisely and effectively.

⚠️ 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.