Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager

Company: IPS-Integrated Project Services (Springtide Division)

Location: Albany, New York, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Design & Project Management (Advanced Technology Facilities)

Date Posted: 2026-03-30

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage the comprehensive design phase for complex semiconductor facilities projects, ensuring strategic alignment with project objectives and client requirements.

• Drive the integration of advanced design principles and construction methodologies, with a strong emphasis on basebuild and tool install aspects critical to semiconductor manufacturing.

• Foster robust cross-functional collaboration among engineering, architecture, construction, and client teams to achieve seamless project execution and optimize time-to-market.

• Implement rigorous project management controls to maintain adherence to strict timelines and budget constraints throughout the design lifecycle.

• Act as a key liaison, coordinating effectively with all stakeholders, vendors, and internal resources to facilitate clear communication and proactive issue resolution.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Design Manager," the description heavily emphasizes project management and coordination within the context of specialized semiconductor facilities. This role sits at the intersection of design oversight and project execution, requiring a candidate comfortable with both technical design elements and the logistical/managerial demands of large-scale construction projects in a highly regulated industry. The "Springtide" division, being part of IPS and a Berkshire Hathaway company, suggests a high standard of operational excellence and a focus on long-term value.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Oversee the entire design phase of semiconductor facilities projects, ensuring strict adherence to established project timelines and budget parameters.

• Collaborate closely with internal engineering and architecture teams to develop sophisticated design strategies that integrate basebuild and tool install requirements, leveraging industry best practices.

• Coordinate and facilitate communication with a diverse range of stakeholders, including clients, vendors, regulatory bodies, and internal project teams, throughout the project lifecycle.

• Conduct comprehensive design reviews at key milestones to systematically assess progress, identify potential risks or deviations, and implement effective corrective actions.

• Meticulously manage all project documentation, including design drawings, technical specifications, and related deliverables, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and version control.

• Champion a collaborative and innovative work environment that encourages the open exchange of ideas, problem-solving, and continuous improvement of design and construction processes.

• Ensure design proposals and deliverables meet all relevant codes, standards, and regulatory compliance requirements specific to semiconductor facilities and advanced technology projects.

• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to design and project teams, fostering skill development and promoting a culture of excellence.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on technical design oversight and project execution management. The emphasis on "basebuild and/or tool install requirements" indicates a need for specialized knowledge within semiconductor facility construction, requiring an understanding of the unique complexities of cleanrooms, utilities, and equipment integration.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• 5-10 years of progressive experience in design management, project management, or a similar role, specifically within the advanced technology or complex facility construction sectors.

Required Skills:

• Project Management Proficiency: Proven ability to manage project scope, schedule, budget, and resources effectively. Experience with project management methodologies (e.g., Waterfall, Agile where applicable) and tools (e.g., MS Project, Primavera P6, Procore).

• Design Management Expertise: In-depth understanding of architectural and engineering design principles, construction methods, and the design lifecycle for complex industrial facilities.

• Semiconductor Industry Knowledge: Strong familiarity with the unique requirements of semiconductor facilities, including basebuild (structural, MEP, architectural) and tool install (process piping, utilities, exhaust) aspects.

• Cross-functional Team Leadership: Exceptional ability to lead, motivate, and coordinate diverse teams, including engineers, architects, contractors, and client representatives.

• Stakeholder Coordination & Communication: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with a proven track record of effectively managing relationships and negotiating with clients, vendors, and internal stakeholders.

• Documentation & Quality Control: Proficient in managing technical documentation, design reviews, and implementing quality assurance processes for construction projects.

• Problem-Solving & Analytical Skills: Strong ability to identify, analyze, and resolve complex design and project issues proactively.

Preferred Skills:

• Advanced Degree: Master's degree in a relevant engineering, architecture, or construction management discipline.

• Specific Tool Install Experience: Deep expertise in the planning and execution of tool install phases for semiconductor manufacturing equipment.

• LEAN Project Delivery: Familiarity with LEAN principles and their application in optimizing project delivery and reducing waste.

• EPCM Experience: Experience with Engineering, Procurement, and Construction Management (EPCM) project delivery models.

• Regulatory Compliance: Knowledge of relevant building codes, safety regulations, and environmental standards applicable to high-tech industrial facilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for "basebuild and/or tool install aspects" is critical. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their specific experience in one or both of these areas and how they've managed the complexities involved in semiconductor cleanroom environments and specialized utility systems. Proficiency in project management software is a key differentiator.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Case Studies: Showcase detailed case studies of complex facility projects managed, highlighting your role in the design phase, project lifecycle, and outcomes.

• Design Integration Examples: Provide examples of how you've successfully integrated diverse design elements (e.g., architectural, structural, MEP, specialized process systems) to meet project objectives.

• Process Optimization Documentation: Demonstrate instances where you've identified and implemented process improvements within design or construction workflows, leading to efficiency gains or risk mitigation.

• Stakeholder Management Scenarios: Illustrate your approach to managing complex stakeholder relationships and resolving conflicts through specific project examples.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Evidence of designing, documenting, and optimizing workflows for design phases, including review cycles, approval processes, and interdisciplinary coordination.

• System Implementation Standards: Documentation or examples of how you've ensured design elements align with construction and operational system requirements, particularly for complex MEP and process systems in high-tech environments.

• Metrics & Performance Analysis: Examples of how you've tracked and reported on key design and project performance indicators (e.g., schedule adherence, budget variance, design review completion rates, issue resolution times).

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, a portfolio should clearly demonstrate the candidate's ability to manage intricate design processes within a project management framework, specifically for highly technical environments like semiconductor facilities. Emphasis should be placed on demonstrating quantitative improvements, problem-solving methodologies, and collaborative project execution.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $145,000 - $222,000 per year

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision)

• Retirement savings plan (e.g., 401(k) with company match)

• Paid time off (vacation, sick leave, holidays)

• Life and disability insurance

• Potential for relocation packages for qualified candidates

• Professional development opportunities and training

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time workweek, typically 40 hours per week.

• Occasional overtime may be required to meet project deadlines and critical milestones. The role is on-site, requiring consistent presence at the Albany, New York office.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is competitive for a Design Manager role with significant project management responsibilities in the specialized semiconductor facilities sector in New York. The mention of relocation packages indicates the company is willing to attract top talent from outside the immediate area. The working hours are standard, but the on-site requirement is firm.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Technical Consultancy (Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, Project/Program Management) serving Advanced Technology Industries (Semiconductor, Data Centers, Renewable Energy, Electric Vehicle).

Company Size: Part of IPS (Integrated Project Services), a larger entity, which is a division of Berkshire Hathaway. This implies a stable, resource-rich environment with a strong emphasis on operational excellence and long-term client relationships. The "Springtide" division itself is likely agile and innovative, as its name suggests.

Founded: IPS was founded in 1989, and Springtide is a newer division, emphasizing its dynamic and forward-thinking approach.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager will likely be part of a larger project management or engineering department within Springtide/IPS.

• Reporting structure is expected to involve a senior project director or operations lead, with direct management of design consultants and close collaboration with project managers, discipline engineers, and construction teams.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Emphasis on using data and analytics to inform design choices and project execution strategies.

• Agile & Innovative Solutions: Springtide's name and description suggest a culture that embraces agility, creativity, and proactive problem-solving to deliver optimized project outcomes.

• Collaborative Engagement: The company prioritizes working closely with clients and internal teams, fostering alignment and shared ownership of project success.

Company Website: https://careers.ipsdb.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The affiliation with Berkshire Hathaway provides a strong indicator of financial stability and a culture that values long-term growth and operational excellence. The "Springtide" branding suggests a culture that is also entrepreneurial, agile, and focused on innovation within established corporate structures.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a mid-to-senior management level, requiring significant experience in managing complex design processes and project execution within specialized industries. It's a critical role for ensuring successful project delivery in the advanced technology sector.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will report to a senior leader within Springtide/IPS, likely a Director of Project Management or a similar executive overseeing advanced technology projects. They will manage direct reports (design leads, coordinators) and collaborate extensively with other project stakeholders.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's impact is direct and significant, influencing project timelines, budget adherence, technical quality, and ultimately, the successful operational readiness of critical semiconductor facilities. Their ability to foresee and mitigate design-related risks directly impacts client satisfaction and project profitability.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Leadership Roles: Progression to roles such as Senior Design Manager, Director of Engineering, or Program Director for major capital projects.

• Specialization Advancement: Deepening expertise in specific areas like cleanroom design, advanced MEP systems, or specific semiconductor tool integration.

• Cross-Functional Mobility: Opportunities to move into broader project management, program management, or operational leadership roles within IPS or Berkshire Hathaway.

• Professional Development: Access to training, certifications, and conferences relevant to advanced facilities design, project management, and the semiconductor industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career advancement within a large, stable organization. The specialized nature of semiconductor facilities means that developing expertise here is highly valued and can lead to significant leadership opportunities in a high-growth industry.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based at the company's office in Albany, New York. This is an on-site position, emphasizing the need for direct collaboration and presence.

Office Location(s): Albany, New York, United States. This location is specific, and candidates should research commuting options and local amenities.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The office is designed to foster collaboration, likely featuring meeting rooms, shared workspaces, and access to necessary project management tools and technology.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Expect access to industry-standard design software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit), project management platforms, and communication tools.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular interaction with a diverse team of engineers, project managers, architects, and support staff, facilitating knowledge sharing and problem-solving.

Work Schedule: The work schedule is typically Monday through Friday, 40 hours per week. However, the demanding nature of project-based work, especially in the semiconductor industry, may require flexibility and occasional work outside standard hours to meet critical deadlines or address urgent project needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement is a key factor. Candidates should confirm the specific office environment and any hybrid work policies, though the description strongly suggests a primary on-site presence is expected for this management role.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or recruiter call to assess basic qualifications, salary expectations, and cultural fit.

• Hiring Manager Interview: In-depth discussion with the hiring manager focusing on technical expertise, project management experience, and leadership capabilities. Be prepared to discuss specific projects from your resume.

• Technical/Team Interview(s): Interviews with potential peers, senior engineers, or project directors. This may involve case studies or scenario-based questions related to design challenges, stakeholder management, and problem-solving in semiconductor facilities.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where you will present selected case studies from your portfolio, demonstrating your experience, methodologies, and impact.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior executive or director for final approval and discussion of company vision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 2-3 projects that best showcase your experience managing the design phase of complex industrial facilities, ideally semiconductor-related.

• Focus on Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the challenges, your specific role and actions, the methodologies you employed, and the quantifiable results (e.g., schedule savings, budget control, risk mitigation, design quality improvements).

• Process Clarity: Clearly explain your design management process, including how you coordinate multidisciplinary teams, manage documentation, conduct reviews, and integrate basebuild/tool install requirements.

• Visual Aids: Use slides, diagrams, or relevant visuals to illustrate complex designs, workflows, or project timelines.

• Company Alignment: Tailor your presentation to highlight how your skills and experience align with Springtide's values and the specific needs of semiconductor facility projects.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Problem-Solving: Be ready for hypothetical scenarios involving design conflicts, scope creep, or unexpected site conditions. Practice articulating your approach to analyzing the problem, evaluating options, and proposing solutions that balance technical requirements, budget, and schedule.

• Stakeholder Management Scenarios: Prepare for questions about how you would handle disagreements between design teams and clients, or how you would communicate difficult news regarding project delays or budget overruns.

• Process Improvement Thinking: Think about specific examples where you've improved a design process, workflow, or documentation standard. Be ready to explain the "before" and "after" and the resulting benefits.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio review is a critical component. Candidates should be prepared to walk through their most impactful projects, explaining their strategic contributions, problem-solving approaches, and the tangible outcomes achieved. Demonstrating a structured approach to managing complex design and construction processes is key.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency in industry-standard tools such as Microsoft Project, Primavera P6,

Procore, or similar platforms for scheduling, resource management, and reporting.

• Design Software Suites: Familiarity with or ability to oversee teams using:

  • CAD/BIM Software: AutoCAD, Revit, Navisworks for architectural, structural, and MEP design and coordination.
  • 3D Modeling Tools: Potentially used for visualization and clash detection.

• Collaboration Platforms: Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for real-time team communication and document sharing.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret project data from various sources to inform decision-making and reporting. Familiarity with Excel for data manipulation and analysis.

• Reporting Dashboards: Experience with creating or utilizing project dashboards to track key performance indicators (KPIs) related to design progress, budget, and schedule.

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly customer-facing, understanding how design and construction data integrates with broader enterprise systems (like ERP or project lifecycle management tools) would be beneficial. The company likely uses internal systems for project tracking and resource allocation.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the role is "Design Manager," the emphasis on project management tools and the need to oversee design teams using BIM/CAD software indicates a strong technical and systems orientation. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with managing projects using these types of technologies.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Owner's Perspective: Taking a proactive, responsible, and accountable approach to all project aspects, as exemplified by Berkshire Hathaway's ethos.

• Agility & Creativity: Embracing dynamic solutions, innovative thinking, and the ability to adapt quickly to challenges, reflecting the "Springtide" brand.

• Expertise & Precision: Delivering high-quality, technically sound designs and project plans based on deep subject matter expertise.

• Collaboration & Partnership: Fostering strong working relationships both internally and externally, working in lockstep with clients and project teams.

• Long-lasting Value: Committing to delivering solutions that provide enduring benefits and optimized project outcomes for clients.

Collaboration Style:

• Integrated Team Approach: Working closely with all project disciplines (engineering, architecture, construction, commissioning) to ensure seamless integration and communication.

• Proactive Communication: Encouraging open dialogue, regular updates, and the early identification and resolution of issues.

• Feedback-Driven Improvement: Valuing constructive feedback from team members and stakeholders to refine processes and enhance project delivery.

• Solutions-Oriented Mindset: Focusing on collaborative problem-solving rather than blame, with an emphasis on finding effective paths forward.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture appears to balance established corporate values (from Berkshire Hathaway) with a more modern, agile approach (from Springtide). Candidates should demonstrate an ability to operate within a structured environment while also bringing innovative and collaborative energy.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complexity of Semiconductor Facilities: Managing the intricate design requirements, specialized systems (e.g., ultra-pure water, specialty gases, exhaust), and stringent cleanroom standards inherent to semiconductor manufacturing.

• Balancing Competing Priorities: Effectively juggling client demands, budget constraints, aggressive timelines, and technical specifications across multiple engineering disciplines.

• Cross-Functional Coordination: Ensuring seamless communication and alignment between diverse teams (designers, engineers, construction managers, vendors, clients) who may have different priorities and working styles.

• Evolving Technology: Keeping abreast of rapid advancements in semiconductor manufacturing technology and their implications for facility design and infrastructure.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Industry Training: Access to training programs focused on semiconductor facility design, cleanroom technology, and advanced MEP systems.

• Project Management Certifications: Support for obtaining or maintaining certifications like PMP (Project Management Professional) or industry-specific credentials.

• Leadership Development Programs: Opportunities to hone leadership, strategic planning, and stakeholder management skills through internal programs and mentorship.

• Exposure to Diverse Projects: Working on a variety of advanced technology projects (data centers, renewable energy, etc.) can broaden expertise and career horizons within the broader IPS organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant technical and managerial challenges, which are also the source of substantial growth opportunities. Candidates who thrive in complex, high-stakes environments will find this role rewarding.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for managing the design phase of a complex industrial facility, from initial concept to construction documentation. What are the key control points?" (Focus on your structured approach, risk management, and quality assurance.)

• "How do you ensure effective collaboration and communication between architectural, engineering, and construction teams, especially when dealing with differing priorities or technical disagreements?" (Highlight your communication strategies, conflict resolution skills, and stakeholder management.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Springtide and IPS, and why are you interested in working for us?" (Research the company's website, specialties, and recent projects. Align your motivations with their stated values and industry focus.)

• "How does your approach to design management align with our emphasis on an 'owner's perspective' and 'agility'?" (Connect your experience with proactive problem-solving and adaptable methodologies.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Frame your project presentations as compelling narratives: the challenge, your strategic approach, the key actions taken, and the measurable results.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use numbers and data to demonstrate the success of your efforts (e.g., "reduced design review cycle by 15%," "identified potential cost savings of $X million through early clash detection").

• Highlight Collaboration: Explicitly mention how you worked with different teams and stakeholders, and how that collaboration contributed to project success.

• Address Basebuild vs. Tool Install: Be prepared to discuss your specific contributions and understanding of either or both aspects within your presented projects.

• Conciseness: Respect the time allocated for your presentation and focus on the most impactful aspects of your experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong understanding of both design principles and robust project management practices within the specialized context of advanced technology facilities. Be ready to articulate your methodologies clearly and provide concrete examples of your impact.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the IPS-Integrated Project Services careers portal.

• Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume to highlight keywords and responsibilities mentioned in this job description, such as "Design Management," "Project Management," "Semiconductor Facilities," "Basebuild," "Tool Install," "Stakeholder Coordination," and "Cross-functional Team Leadership." Quantify your achievements wherever possible.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Select and organize your most relevant project case studies. Ensure they clearly demonstrate your experience in design phase management, problem-solving, and successful project outcomes, with a focus on complex industrial or technology facilities.

• Research the Company: Familiarize yourself with Springtide and IPS, their mission, values, and the types of projects they undertake. Understand how your skills and experience align with their operations and culture.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare thoughtful answers to common interview questions, particularly those related to project management, design leadership, stakeholder engagement, and problem-solving in complex environments. Be ready to discuss your portfolio in detail.

⚠️ 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.