Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager
Company: Pomerleau
Location: Vancouver, BC, Canada
Job Type: Full-time
Category: Design & Project Management (Construction/Infrastructure)
Date Posted: January 07, 2026
Experience Level: 10+ Years
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive strategic design management for complex, large-scale building and infrastructure projects, ensuring alignment with government specifications and guidelines.
• Lead collaborative efforts between Project Managers, consultants, and stakeholders throughout the entire project lifecycle, from concept to construction.
• Develop and implement innovative, cost-effective, and optimized design solutions that meet client requirements and company standards.
• Provide crucial support to the proposals team, crafting customized and creative proposals for specific job requirements.
• Oversee the performance of professional firms involved in projects, ensuring adherence to quality, schedule, and cost expectations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within Pomerleau's Alternative Projects Centre of Expertise (APEX) team, indicating a focus on specialized, complex, or non-traditional project delivery methods, likely involving Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) and Design-Build (DB) frameworks. The emphasis on "technical magic" and "custom craftsmanship" suggests a highly skilled and detail-oriented individual is sought for intricate design challenges.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design Review & Compliance: Meticulously review blueprints and technical documentation to ensure strict adherence to "DND" (Department of National Defence) specifications and relevant government guidelines.
• Design Optimization & Innovation: Develop and champion innovative design concepts for each project, balancing aesthetic elegance with functional efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
• Client-Centric Solutions: Craft tailored designs that precisely meet client needs and project objectives, exploring and recommending optimized design alternatives.
• Proposal Development: Act as a key contributor to the proposals team, collaborating with internal and external stakeholders to develop compelling, customized, and creative proposals for bid submissions.
• Consultant & Vendor Management: Proactively monitor and assess the performance of external architectural and engineering firms, ensuring their deliverables meet Pomerleau's high standards for quality, schedule adherence, and cost control.
• Project Lifecycle Management: Guide and manage design processes across all project phases, from initial planning and conceptualization through to detailed design, construction, and final handover.
• Risk Identification & Mitigation: Identify potential design-related risks and challenges early in the project lifecycle and develop proactive mitigation strategies.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: Foster strong working relationships and facilitate seamless communication with Project Managers, construction teams, consultants, and clients to ensure unified project execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibility for "owning custom craftsmanship" and developing "tailor-made" plans for clients, alongside the emphasis on "cost-effective alternatives" and "optimized designs," suggests this role requires a blend of creative design expertise and pragmatic value engineering. The focus on DND and government projects implies a need to understand and navigate complex regulatory environments.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Engineering, or a closely related technical field is required.
• A Master's degree or architectural licensure is strongly preferred, indicating a desire for advanced expertise.

Experience:

• A minimum of 7+ years of experience managing workflows and processes specifically related to government and DND architectural/engineering projects.
• Proven expertise in designing Public-Private Partnership (PPP) and Design-Build (DB) projects is essential.
• Extensive experience navigating the full project lifecycle, from concept development through to construction completion.

Required Skills:

• Architectural/Engineering Acumen: Deep understanding of architectural and engineering principles, with the ability to interpret and review complex blueprints and technical drawings.
• Government Project Expertise: Significant experience with government contracts, specifications, and regulatory frameworks, particularly those related to DND projects.
• BIM & VDC Proficiency: Demonstrable skill and experience working with Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Virtual Design Construction (VDC) modeling software and methodologies.
• Workflow & Process Management: Proven ability to manage complex design workflows and processes efficiently, ensuring timely delivery and quality outcomes.
• Collaboration & Communication: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders, including project managers, consultants, and clients.
• Proposal Development: Experience contributing to and developing technical proposals for large-scale construction and infrastructure projects.
• Cost Management Awareness: Understanding of cost-effective design alternatives and optimization strategies to achieve project budget goals.
• Security Clearance Eligibility: Must be eligible for a Government of Canada Secret Level Security clearance.

Preferred Skills:

• Fluency in both official languages (English and French), written and oral.
• Architectural licensure.
• Master's degree in a relevant field.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for 7+ years of experience specifically in managing workflows for government/DND projects, coupled with expertise in PPP and Design-Build, strongly indicates that candidates with a deep understanding of these niche project delivery models will be prioritized. The explicit mention of BIM/VDC suggests these are not just nice-to-haves but essential tools for design collaboration and execution.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Case Studies: Showcase a minimum of 3-5 complex government or DND projects, highlighting your specific role, design contributions, and challenges overcome.
• Design Optimization Examples: Include specific examples of how you implemented cost-effective alternatives or optimized designs to improve project outcomes (e.g., reduced material costs, improved efficiency, enhanced functionality).
• BIM/VDC Integration: Demonstrate instances where BIM or VDC was effectively utilized for design coordination, clash detection, or visualization, showcasing the impact on project delivery.
• Collaboration & Workflow Documentation: Provide evidence of your ability to manage complex design workflows and foster collaboration, perhaps through process diagrams or descriptions of cross-functional team interactions.
• Proposal Contributions: If possible, include anonymized examples or detailed descriptions of your contributions to successful proposals, emphasizing your role in crafting customized solutions.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Be prepared to discuss your methodologies for designing, documenting, and optimizing complex architectural and engineering workflows, particularly within the context of government projects.
• System Implementation & Automation: Detail your experience with implementing and managing design-related systems, including BIM/VDC platforms, and any automation strategies you've employed to enhance efficiency.
• Performance Analysis: Explain how you measure and analyze the performance of design processes, consultant deliverables, and overall project quality, schedule, and cost adherence.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the role's focus on government and DND projects, a portfolio demonstrating a strong understanding of compliance, rigorous documentation, and structured project execution will be highly valued. Candidates should be prepared to articulate their process for ensuring design integrity and managing multiple stakeholder inputs within these demanding environments.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $105,000 - $146,000 CAD per year.

Benefits:

• Extensive Employee Benefits Program: Pomerleau offers a comprehensive benefits package, details of which are typically provided during the interview process. These often include:
  • Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Life Insurance and Disability Coverage
  • Retirement Savings Plans (e.g., RRSP contributions or matching)
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick Leave, Holidays)
  • Professional Development Support and Training
  • Potential for Performance Bonuses
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)

Working Hours:

• Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week.
• While the role is on-site, Pomerleau may offer some flexibility depending on project needs and team dynamics, though core hours will likely be required for effective collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The stated salary range of $105,000 - $146,000 CAD is competitive for a Design Manager role with significant experience requirements in Vancouver, BC. The note that salaries may vary by experience and geographical location is standard, but given the specific Vancouver location, this range is a strong benchmark. The "extensive employee benefits program" implies a robust package beyond the base salary, which is typical for large construction firms.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction & Infrastructure Development. Pomerleau is a major player in the Canadian construction market, known for undertaking large-scale and complex building and infrastructure projects. Company Size: Pomerleau is a large, established company, employing a significant workforce across Canada. This means access to extensive resources, established processes, and a broad network of professionals. Founded: Pomerleau was founded in 1964, bringing decades of experience and a strong reputation to the market. This longevity suggests stability and a deep understanding of the construction industry.

Team Structure:

• APEX Team Focus: The role sits within the Alternative Projects Centre of Expertise (APEX), indicating specialized focus on innovative project delivery models like PPP and Design-Build. This team likely comprises highly experienced professionals dedicated to managing complex, often government-funded, projects.
• Cross-functional Integration: As Design Manager, you will be a central point of collaboration, working closely with Project Managers, site teams, procurement, legal, finance, and external consultants (architects, engineers).
• Reporting: You will likely report to a senior leader within the APEX team or a Director of Design/Engineering, with direct responsibility for managing design consultants and internal design-related processes.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Pomerleau emphasizes leveraging data and technology for project planning, execution, and performance monitoring.
• Collaborative Design Process: The company promotes a collaborative approach, encouraging input from all project stakeholders to achieve optimal outcomes.
• Innovation & Efficiency: A commitment to exploring innovative construction methods and optimizing processes to enhance efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness.

Company Website: https://www.pomerleau.ca/

📝 Enhancement Note: Working within Pomerleau's APEX team suggests an environment that tackles challenging, high-profile projects with unique delivery mechanisms. The company's long history implies a culture that values experience, stability, and robust project management frameworks, while its focus on innovation suggests an openness to new approaches.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is a senior-level position, designated as a "Manager." It requires significant experience (10+ years implied) and a high degree of autonomy and responsibility in managing complex design processes and leading cross-functional collaborations.

Reporting Structure: You will likely report to a senior director or vice president within the APEX division, overseeing design aspects of major projects. You will manage relationships with external design consultants and collaborate closely with Project Managers and other site-based leadership.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's impact is critical to the success of large-scale projects. Effective design management directly influences:

• Project Viability: Ensuring designs meet technical, regulatory, and client requirements from the outset.
• Cost Control: Identifying and implementing cost-saving measures through optimized designs and efficient processes.
• Schedule Adherence: Preventing design-related delays through proactive review, coordination, and problem-solving.
• Quality Assurance: Upholding Pomerleau's reputation for quality by ensuring design excellence and compliance.
• Risk Mitigation: Proactively identifying and addressing potential design flaws or compliance issues.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to advance into senior leadership roles within the APEX team or other divisions, such as Director of Design, VP of Project Delivery, or specialization in specific complex project types.
• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas like PPP, Design-Build, or advanced BIM/VDC implementation.
• Mentorship: Opportunity to mentor junior designers, engineers, and project coordinators, developing leadership skills.
• Strategic Involvement: Contribute to the strategic development of Pomerleau's design methodologies and innovation initiatives.
• Broader Project Scope: Take on design management responsibilities for even larger or more complex national/international projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "10+" years of experience classification suggests this role is for seasoned professionals. The emphasis on PPP and Design-Build, along with government projects, positions this as a specialized career path within construction management, with strong potential for leadership in complex infrastructure development.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role, indicating a primary work location within a Pomerleau office environment, likely in Vancouver, BC. The APEX team may have dedicated office space designed for collaborative work.

Office Location(s): Vancouver, BC, Canada. This location offers access to major infrastructure projects and a vibrant business community.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: Expect a dynamic office environment designed to foster collaboration among project teams, designers, engineers, and management. This may include open-plan areas and dedicated meeting rooms equipped for design reviews.
• Technology-Rich: Access to advanced design software, BIM/VDC platforms, high-performance computing, and communication tools essential for managing complex projects.
• Team Interaction: Frequent interaction with project managers, technical specialists, and potentially clients, requiring strong communication and relationship-building skills.

Work Schedule:

• The role is full-time, with an expected 40-hour work week.
• Given the nature of large-scale construction projects, there may be periods requiring extended hours or weekend work to meet critical deadlines, especially during proposal phases or key project milestones. However, the primary expectation is an on-site office setting during standard business hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: As an on-site role in Vancouver, candidates should be prepared for a traditional office-based work environment, emphasizing in-person collaboration and project team integration. The focus on BIM/VDC suggests the office will be equipped with the necessary technological infrastructure to support these advanced design tools.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess qualifications against the core requirements, especially experience with government/DND projects and PPP/DB.
2. Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the hiring manager to delve into your experience, technical skills, understanding of design management principles, and fit with the APEX team culture. Be prepared to discuss your approach to collaboration and problem-solving.
3. Portfolio Review & Technical Interview: A dedicated session where you will present your portfolio. Expect in-depth questions about your specific contributions to past projects, your process for design optimization, and your proficiency with BIM/VDC. This stage may also include technical challenges or case studies related to design management in government contexts.
4. Team/Stakeholder Interviews: Meetings with key team members (e.g., Project Managers, senior engineers) and potentially external stakeholders to assess your collaboration style and ability to integrate with the broader project team.
5. Final Interview & Offer: A concluding interview with senior leadership, followed by a potential job offer. Background checks, including verification of security clearance eligibility, will be conducted.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure for Impact: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or by demonstrating specific skills (e.g., PPP expertise, BIM implementation).
• Quantify Achievements: For each project, clearly state your role, the project's scale and type, the challenges faced, your specific contributions, and quantifiable results (e.g., "Reduced design costs by 15% through value engineering," "Ensured 100% compliance with DND specifications").
• Highlight PPP/DB Experience: Dedicate specific sections or case studies to showcase your understanding and successful execution of PPP and Design-Build projects.
• Showcase BIM/VDC: Include visuals or descriptions of how you've used BIM/VDC for coordination, clash detection, or client presentations.
• Be Ready to Discuss Process: Be prepared to walk through your typical workflow for design management, from initial brief to final construction documentation.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Scenarios: Anticipate hypothetical design challenges related to government projects, such as scope creep, budget constraints, or regulatory changes, and prepare your strategic response.
• Process Improvement: Be ready to discuss how you would analyze and improve an existing design process within Pomerleau's APEX team.
• Stakeholder Management: Prepare examples of how you've managed difficult stakeholder relationships or resolved design conflicts effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio review and technical interviews suggests that practical demonstration of skills and experience is paramount. Candidates should prepare to articulate not just what they've done, but how they've done it, with a focus on process, problem-solving, and measurable outcomes relevant to large-scale government construction projects.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Building Information Modelling (BIM) Software: Proficiency with industry-standard BIM platforms such as Autodesk Revit, Navisworks, or equivalent is crucial. Experience with BIM management and coordination workflows is expected.
• Virtual Design Construction (VDC) Tools: Familiarity with VDC principles and software for simulation, analysis, and integrated project delivery.
• CAD Software: Strong understanding of AutoCAD or similar Computer-Aided Design software for technical drawing and drafting.
• Project Management Software: Experience with platforms like Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Procore, or similar for scheduling, task management, and project tracking.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: While not explicitly listed, familiarity with tools for analyzing project data (e.g., Excel for financial tracking, basic database querying) is beneficial.
• Reporting Dashboards: Experience in creating or interpreting project status reports and dashboards related to design progress, budget, and schedule.

CRM & Automation:

• Collaboration Platforms: Tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or other internal communication and file-sharing systems for team collaboration.
• Document Management Systems: Experience with systems for organizing and managing large volumes of project documentation, drawings, and specifications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of BIM and VDC points to a modern, technology-forward design environment. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate not just familiarity, but practical application of these tools in managing complex design coordination and communication within large project teams.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence & Quality: A commitment to delivering high-quality design and construction solutions that meet or exceed client and regulatory expectations.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a collaborative environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and cross-functional teams work cohesively towards common project goals.
• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: Encouraging the exploration of new technologies, methodologies, and design approaches to drive efficiency and project success.
• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding the highest ethical standards and taking ownership of responsibilities to ensure project success and client satisfaction.
• Safety & Compliance: Prioritizing safety in all aspects of work and ensuring strict adherence to government regulations and project specifications.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive Engagement: Expect a style that requires proactive engagement with Project Managers, consultants, and other stakeholders to anticipate and address design challenges.
• Data-Informed Discussions: Collaboration will likely involve leveraging data and technical information to support design decisions and resolve issues.
• Constructive Feedback: An environment that encourages open and constructive feedback to continuously improve design processes and project outcomes.
• Cross-Disciplinary Integration: A strong emphasis on integrating design considerations with construction realities, procurement needs, and financial constraints.

📝 Enhancement Note: Pomerleau's values, particularly "Excellence & Quality" and "Innovation & Continuous Improvement," align well with the demands of managing complex design for government projects. The emphasis on collaboration and integrity is crucial for maintaining strong client relationships and project team cohesion.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Government Regulations: Continuously staying abreast of and ensuring compliance with evolving DND and government specifications, which can be complex and stringent.
• Managing Diverse Stakeholder Expectations: Balancing the needs and expectations of various stakeholders, including government officials, clients, internal teams, and multiple consulting firms.
• Design Optimization under Constraints: Achieving innovative and cost-effective designs within tight budget and schedule limitations inherent in large infrastructure projects.
• Integration of New Technologies: Effectively integrating and leveraging new design technologies like advanced BIM/VDC across diverse project teams and consultants.
• Security Clearance Requirements: Navigating the process and maintaining the necessary security clearance for sensitive government projects.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Project Management: Gaining experience with unique project delivery models (PPP, DB) on a large scale.
• Industry Certifications: Opportunities to pursue certifications relevant to project management, BIM/VDC, or specialized construction fields.
• Mentorship Programs: Access to experienced leaders within Pomerleau for guidance and career development.
• Exposure to Cutting-Edge Technology: Working with advanced BIM/VDC tools and potentially engaging in pilot projects for new design technologies.
• Leadership Development: Opportunities to lead teams, mentor junior staff, and take on increasing levels of responsibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges highlight the need for a resilient, adaptable, and detail-oriented professional. The growth opportunities are substantial, offering a clear path for career advancement within a leading Canadian construction firm, particularly for those interested in complex infrastructure and specialized project delivery methods.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Management Philosophy: "Describe your philosophy for managing the design process on large-scale government projects. How do you ensure quality, compliance, and efficiency?" (Prepare to discuss your approach to workflow, risk management, and stakeholder communication).
• PPP/DB Experience: "Walk us through a complex PPP or Design-Build project you managed. What were the key design challenges, and how did you overcome them? What was your specific role in ensuring successful collaboration and delivery?" (Prepare specific case studies that highlight your expertise in these models).
• BIM/VDC Application: "How have you leveraged BIM/VDC to improve design coordination, identify clashes, or enhance client communication on previous projects? Provide a specific example." (Be ready to discuss your technical proficiency and strategic application of these tools).

Company & Culture Questions:

• Pomerleau's APEX Team: "What interests you about working within Pomerleau's APEX team and on alternative project delivery models?" (Research APEX's mission and recent projects to tailor your answer).
• Collaboration Style: "Describe a time you had to manage conflicting design input from multiple stakeholders. How did you facilitate a resolution and ensure the project's best interests were met?" (Prepare an example demonstrating strong communication and negotiation skills).
• DND Project Familiarity: "What is your understanding of the typical requirements and challenges associated with DND building design projects?" (Demonstrate your awareness of government contracting specifics and security considerations).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Concise & Focused: Select 3-4 of your most relevant projects that best showcase your experience with government, DND, PPP, and Design-Build contracts, as well as your BIM/VDC skills.
• Highlight Your Role: Clearly articulate your specific responsibilities and contributions to each project. Use "I" statements where appropriate.
• Quantify Impact: For each project, present metrics demonstrating your success (e.g., cost savings achieved, schedule improvements, compliance achieved).
• Process Demonstration: Be prepared to visually or verbally walk through your design management process, from initial concept to final documentation, highlighting key decision points and controls.
• Tailor to Pomerleau: Briefly explain how your experience and approach align with Pomerleau's values and the specific needs of the APEX team.

📝 Enhancement Note: Anticipate that interviewers will probe deeply into your experience with government contracts and specialized project delivery methods. Your ability to articulate your processes, demonstrate technical competence with BIM/VDC, and showcase quantifiable achievements in your portfolio will be critical for success.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit Your Application: Complete the online application through the provided link on Pomerleau's careers portal.
• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight experience and skills directly relevant to government projects, DND specifications, PPP, Design-Build, BIM/VDC, and workflow management. Use keywords from the job description.
• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a digital portfolio that includes detailed case studies of your most relevant projects. Ensure it clearly demonstrates your design management capabilities, technical skills, and achievements.
• Research Pomerleau: Familiarize yourself with Pomerleau's recent projects, company values, and the specific focus of the APEX team. Understand their approach to innovation and project delivery.
• Practice Your Presentation: Rehearse presenting your portfolio and answering common interview questions, focusing on clear, concise, and impactful communication of your experience and expertise.

⚠️ 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.