Design Manager - Higher Education

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager - Higher Education

Company: STV

Location: Los Angeles, California, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Operations Management / Project Management (with a focus on Education Sector)

Date Posted: April 1, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive the strategic planning and execution of design projects within the higher education sector, ensuring alignment with institutional goals and operational efficiency.

• Lead and mentor project teams, fostering a collaborative environment to achieve project milestones and deliver high-quality design outcomes.

• Oversee the end-to-end project lifecycle, from initial scope definition and resource allocation to final delivery and post-project evaluation, integrating best practices in operations management.

• Implement and refine project management methodologies to enhance efficiency, control, and communication across all project phases, directly impacting operational effectiveness.

• Serve as a key liaison between design teams, stakeholders, and higher education clients, translating complex requirements into actionable project plans and ensuring seamless operational integration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided description, while for a "Design Manager," heavily emphasizes project oversight, planning, organization, coordination, and control, which are core tenets of operations management and project management roles. The "Higher Education" specialization indicates a focus on a specific industry vertical, requiring an understanding of the operational nuances within academic institutions. The role's emphasis on leading through subordinate leaders and reporting to higher-level project management suggests a significant operational leadership component.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Oversee all phases of planning, organization, coordination, and control for higher education design projects, ensuring adherence to STV's established policies, procedures, and systems.

• Lead and supervise project personnel, including subordinate leaders, through effective team management and performance oversight to ensure successful project execution.

• Develop and maintain comprehensive project plans, including scope definition, resource allocation, budget management, and timeline adherence, with a strong focus on operational efficiency.

• Facilitate clear and consistent communication among project teams, clients (higher education institutions), and internal stakeholders, ensuring all parties are informed of project status, risks, and decisions.

• Implement and monitor project execution strategies, identifying potential operational challenges and proactively developing mitigation plans to ensure project success and client satisfaction.

• Conduct regular project reviews and performance analysis to identify areas for process improvement and operational optimization within the design and project management lifecycle.

• Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations, standards, and contractual requirements specific to higher education projects and STV's operational framework.

• Mentor and coach project staff, fostering professional development and ensuring the team possesses the necessary skills to manage and execute projects effectively within an operational context.

📝 Enhancement Note: Based on the "SCOPE" and "JOB COMPLEXITY" sections, the primary responsibilities are inferred to extend beyond pure design to encompass comprehensive project management and operational leadership within the higher education sector. This includes direct personnel management and strategic oversight.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field.

Experience:

• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in project management, with a significant portion dedicated to the planning, execution, and control of complex projects.

Required Skills:

• Project Management: Expertise in all project phases, including planning, initiation, execution, monitoring, controlling, and closing, with a strong emphasis on operational efficiency.

• Team Leadership & Supervision: Demonstrated ability to lead, motivate, and manage project teams and subordinate leaders, fostering a productive and collaborative work environment.

• Strategic Planning & Execution: Proficiency in developing strategic project plans, defining scopes, and executing them effectively within defined operational parameters and timelines.

• Coordination & Control: Strong capabilities in coordinating diverse project activities and maintaining rigorous control over project progress, budget, and quality.

• Stakeholder Management: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively manage relationships with clients, internal teams, and other stakeholders.

• Problem-Solving & Decision Making: Ability to identify operational challenges, analyze complex situations, and make sound, timely decisions.

• Organizational Skills: Exceptional ability to organize, prioritize, and manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously.

Preferred Skills:

• Higher Education Sector Experience: In-depth understanding of the unique operational, academic, and administrative requirements of higher education institutions.

• Design & Construction Management: Familiarity with the design and construction processes for institutional facilities.

• Risk Management: Experience in identifying, assessing, and mitigating project and operational risks.

• Budget Management: Proven ability to manage project budgets effectively and ensure financial accountability.

• Mentoring & Coaching: Experience in developing and mentoring junior staff and project managers.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "10+" years of experience requirement, coupled with the emphasis on "planning, organization, coordination, and control," strongly suggests a need for seasoned professionals with a deep understanding of project and operational management principles, not just design.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Management Documentation: Showcase examples of comprehensive project plans, scope documents, resource allocation charts, and risk management matrices for complex projects.

• Process Optimization Case Studies: Present case studies detailing how you identified and implemented process improvements to enhance project execution, efficiency, or quality within an operational context.

• Team Leadership Examples: Provide evidence of your ability to lead and manage project teams, including examples of performance management, conflict resolution, and team development initiatives.

• Financial Oversight Examples: Include evidence of successful budget management, cost control measures, and financial reporting for projects you have overseen.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design: Demonstrate experience in designing and documenting project workflows, ensuring clarity, efficiency, and adherence to best practices in operations management.

• System Implementation: Provide examples of how you have utilized project management software or other operational systems to track progress, manage resources, and facilitate communication.

• Performance Measurement: Illustrate your approach to measuring project performance, including the establishment of KPIs, data analysis, and reporting for operational insights.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated, a "Design Manager" role with significant project oversight responsibilities in a large firm like STV would typically require a portfolio demonstrating not just design work, but also management capabilities, process control, and operational impact.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $143,435.23 - $163,925.98 USD per year

Explanation of Range: This range reflects STV's good-faith estimate for this position, considering factors such as geography (Los Angeles, California), candidate experience, education, and certifications. The specific salary offered will be determined on an individual basis.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive health coverage, including an option with a Health Savings Account (HSA).

• Dental Insurance: Coverage for dental care needs.

• Vision Insurance: Coverage for vision care.

• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs): Options for pre-tax savings on healthcare, dependent care, and transit/parking expenses where applicable.

• Disability Insurance: Provides income protection in case of disability.

• Life Insurance: Basic life insurance coverage.

• Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance: Coverage in the event of accidental death or dismemberment.

• 401(k) Plan: Company-sponsored retirement savings plan.

• Retirement Counseling: Professional guidance to help employees plan for retirement.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential support services for personal and work-related issues.

• Paid Time Off (PTO): Generous PTO starting at 16 days per year, accrued for work-life balance.

• Paid Holidays: 9 paid holidays per year.

• Back-Up Dependent Care: Up to 10 days per year of support for childcare or eldercare needs.

• Parental Leave: Up to 80 hours of paid leave for new parents.

• Continuing Education Program: Support for ongoing professional development and learning.

• Professional Licensure and Society Memberships: Assistance with maintaining professional licenses and memberships in relevant industry societies.

Working Hours:

• Typically 40 hours per week.

• While the role is on-site, a degree of flexibility may be expected to manage project timelines and client needs, aligning with operational demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is provided. The benefits are extensive and typical for a large engineering and architectural consulting firm, supporting employee well-being and professional growth, which are crucial for retaining talent in demanding operational roles.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering, Architecture, and Construction Management Services. STV is a leader in providing comprehensive professional services for infrastructure and buildings projects, including transportation systems, community improvement, water facilities, and buildings.

Company Size: STV is a large organization, indicated by its extensive benefits package and the hierarchical structure implied by reporting lines. This size suggests a structured environment with established operational processes and career pathways.

Founded: While the founding date isn't provided, STV has a long-standing reputation in the industry, suggesting a culture that values experience, stability, and long-term client relationships.

Team Structure:

• The role operates within a project-based structure, likely part of a larger design or project management division.

• The "Design Manager" will lead project teams, potentially consisting of designers, architects, engineers, and project coordinators, through subordinate leaders.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: While not explicitly stated, a firm of STV's caliber likely relies on data analysis for project planning, resource allocation, and performance tracking.

• Process Standardization: Emphasis on established policies, procedures, and systems indicates a commitment to standardized operational practices for consistency and quality.

• Client-Centric Approach: The focus on higher education clients suggests a methodology geared towards understanding and meeting the specific needs and operational constraints of academic institutions.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: STV's industry and size imply a professional, process-oriented culture. The "Higher Education" focus suggests a specialized division that understands the unique operational demands of academic clients.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior-level management position within the project execution and operations domain. It requires a blend of technical understanding (design principles) and strong managerial acumen for overseeing complex projects and teams.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager reports to higher-level Project Management, indicating a clear chain of command and opportunities for further advancement within STV's project management or operational leadership hierarchy.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager has a direct impact on STV's success by ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to client satisfaction. Effective operational oversight in this role contributes significantly to client retention, profitability, and the company's reputation in the higher education sector.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Project/Program Management: Advancement to managing larger, more complex, or multiple concurrent programs and projects.

• Operational Leadership: Transition into broader operational leadership roles, overseeing multiple project teams or specific operational functions within STV.

• Client Relationship Management: Develop expertise in nurturing and expanding relationships with key higher education clients, potentially moving into business development or account management roles.

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in higher education infrastructure and design, becoming a recognized subject matter expert within the firm.

• Mentorship & Training: Take on a more formal role in mentoring and training future project managers and design leaders within STV.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role's experience requirement and leadership responsibilities position it as a significant step in an operations or project management career, offering clear pathways for continued growth within a large, established firm.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role, implying a traditional office environment within one of STV's Los Angeles locations.

Office Location(s): Los Angeles, California, specifically on South Flower Street. This location is a major business hub, offering accessibility and a professional working atmosphere.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role necessitates significant collaboration with internal teams, project staff, and external stakeholders, suggesting an office designed to support team meetings and dynamic work.

• Technology & Tools: Access to STV's standard project management software, design tools, and communication platforms will be provided to facilitate project execution and operational tasks.

• Professional Setting: The environment is expected to be professional, focused on delivering high-quality services to demanding clients in the higher education sector.

Work Schedule:

• The standard working hours are 40 hours per week. However, project deadlines and client needs in the higher education sector may occasionally require extended hours or flexible scheduling to ensure operational continuity and project success.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "On-site" designation and specific street address point to a professional office setting in a major city, typical for large engineering and consulting firms.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or Talent Acquisition will likely review applications and resumes to assess basic qualifications and experience.

• Hiring Manager Interview: An interview with the hiring manager (likely a senior project executive or director) to assess technical expertise, leadership style, and fit for the role and team.

• Team/Peer Interviews: Meetings with potential colleagues or subordinate leaders to evaluate collaboration skills, team dynamics, and operational approach.

• Case Study/Presentation: Candidates may be asked to present a project management case study from their portfolio, demonstrating their approach to planning, execution, problem-solving, and operational control.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader or department head for final approval.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Management & Operations: Focus your portfolio on projects demonstrating your project management, team leadership, and operational oversight capabilities, not just design aesthetics.

• Quantify Achievements: Use metrics to showcase the impact of your work – e.g., projects completed X% under budget, timelines met or exceeded, efficiency improvements of Y%, team size managed.

• Structure Case Studies: For each relevant project, clearly outline the challenge, your approach (planning, execution, control), the operational strategies implemented, and the quantifiable results.

• Showcase Higher Education Experience: If applicable, emphasize projects within the higher education sector, detailing your understanding of their unique operational needs.

Challenge Preparation:

• Project Scenario: Be prepared for hypothetical project scenarios related to higher education design and construction, focusing on how you would manage scope, resources, risks, and stakeholder expectations operationally.

• Leadership Scenarios: Anticipate questions about managing difficult team members, resolving conflicts, motivating teams, and making tough decisions under pressure.

• Process Improvement: Think about how you would analyze an existing operational process within a project and propose improvements for efficiency, quality, or cost savings.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role that blends design management with significant operational oversight, the interview process will likely assess both technical design understanding and robust project/operations management capabilities, with a strong emphasis on demonstrated leadership and process control.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency in industry-standard platforms such as Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Asana, Monday.com, or similar for project planning, scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking.

• Collaboration Platforms: Experience with tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, Zoom, or Google Workspace for seamless team communication and remote collaboration.

• Document Management Systems: Familiarity with systems for organizing, storing, and retrieving project documentation, drawings, and reports.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to utilize Excel for data manipulation and analysis, and potentially BI tools like Tableau or Power BI for creating dashboards and reports on project performance and operational metrics.

• Financial Management Software: Experience with systems for budget tracking, cost control, and financial reporting within projects.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: While not directly client-facing sales, understanding how CRM data impacts project planning and client engagement within an organization like STV could be beneficial.

• Workflow Automation: Familiarity with or openness to leveraging automation tools to streamline repetitive operational tasks within project management workflows.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role requires proficiency in tools that support structured project management and operational oversight. While specific CRM use might be limited, an understanding of how client data informs project success is valuable.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence & Quality: A commitment to delivering high-quality design and project management services that exceed client expectations in the higher education sector.

• Integrity & Ethics: Upholding the highest standards of honesty and ethical conduct in all project dealings and operational decisions.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive and collaborative environment where diverse perspectives are valued to achieve collective goals.

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: Encouraging creative solutions and a proactive approach to identifying and implementing process improvements for operational efficiency.

• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and meeting the unique needs and operational challenges of higher education institutions.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: STV likely emphasizes a collaborative approach where design, engineering, and project management teams work seamlessly together, supported by a strong operational framework.

• Open Communication: Encouraging open dialogue, feedback, and knowledge sharing among team members and across departments to enhance project outcomes and operational effectiveness.

• Mentorship Culture: A willingness to share expertise and mentor junior staff, contributing to the overall growth and development of the firm's talent pool.

📝 Enhancement Note: STV's reputation and industry suggest a culture that values professionalism, client dedication, and collaborative problem-solving, underpinned by strong operational discipline.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Design Vision with Operational Constraints: Effectively managing competing demands between creative design aspirations and the practicalities of project budgets, timelines, and institutional operational requirements.

• Navigating Complex Stakeholder Landscapes: Managing diverse expectations and priorities among university administration, faculty, students, and internal STV teams.

• Driving Process Adoption: Encouraging and ensuring adherence to established project management and operational procedures across diverse project teams.

• Adapting to Evolving Higher Education Needs: Staying abreast of the changing landscape of higher education (e.g., technology integration, sustainability goals, evolving pedagogy) and translating these into project requirements.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Project Management Certifications: STV's support for continuing education can facilitate obtaining or maintaining PMP, LEED AP, or other relevant certifications.

• Industry Conferences & Seminars: Opportunities to attend conferences focused on higher education facilities, design, and project management to stay current on trends and best practices.

• Internal Training Programs: Access to STV's internal training on leadership, project management methodologies, and specialized industry knowledge.

• Mentorship: Opportunities to be mentored by senior leaders within STV and to mentor emerging talent, enhancing leadership and operational coaching skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents challenges common in large-scale project management, particularly within complex institutional environments, offering significant opportunities for professional development and operational expertise enhancement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to balance a creative design vision with strict operational or budget constraints on a higher education project. How did you achieve a successful outcome?" (Focus on your problem-solving, negotiation, and operational control strategies.)

• "How would you structure the project team and operational oversight for a new campus building project from initial concept through completion, considering STV's policies and procedures?" (Demonstrate your understanding of planning, resource allocation, and process implementation.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about STV's work in the higher education sector and our approach to client engagement?" (Research the company's portfolio and values.)

• "How do you foster a collaborative and high-performing team environment, especially when working with diverse disciplines and potentially subordinate leaders?" (Align your response with STV's likely values of teamwork and excellence.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Focus on Management Impact: Select 2-3 key projects that best illustrate your project management, team leadership, and operational oversight success.

• Quantify Results: For each project, clearly articulate the scope, your role, the challenges, the operational strategies you employed, and the measurable outcomes (e.g., budget savings, timeline adherence, client satisfaction scores).

• Structure for Clarity: Use a clear narrative: Situation/Challenge -> Your Action (including operational strategies) -> Result. Be prepared to discuss your decision-making processes and how you managed risks and resources.

• Tailor to Higher Education: If possible, highlight projects within the higher education sector, demonstrating your understanding of its unique operational context.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should emphasize not just design principles but a strong command of project management, operational execution, team leadership, and problem-solving within an institutional context.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations-focused Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided Workday link: https://stvinc.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/stv/job/Los-Angeles-California/Design-Manager---Higher-Education_JR5428

• Customize Your Resume: Highlight your project management experience, leadership roles, operational oversight responsibilities, and any experience within the higher education sector. Use keywords from the job description and industry best practices.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Select projects that best demonstrate your project management, team leadership, process control, and problem-solving skills. Quantify your achievements and be ready to present them clearly.

• Research STV: Familiarize yourself with STV's projects, particularly in higher education, and understand their company values and operational approach. This will help tailor your interview responses.

• Practice Interview Questions: Prepare for behavioral and situational questions, focusing on your experience in managing projects, leading teams, and driving operational efficiency.

⚠️ 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.