Program Assistant Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Program Assistant Design Manager Company: AECOM Location: Orange, California, United States Job Type: Full-time Category: Design & Project Management (Infrastructure/Building Sector) Date Posted: 2025-10-30T15:16:37.29 Experience Level: 5-10 Years (Based on BA/BS + 4 years minimum requirement and typical industry progression) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is critical for overseeing and managing the building design process, ensuring strict adherence to client and District standards for educational facilities.
• Responsibilities include managing multiple infrastructure and building projects concurrently, from initial concept through detailed design, with a focus on engineering repairs and critical repairs.
• The Program Assistant Design Manager will coordinate extensively with architects, consultants, and client personnel to drive projects towards timely and budget-conscious completion.
• This position requires meticulous technical reviews, documentation management, and the preparation of scope of works and proposals, demanding strong project management and commercial acumen.

📝 Enhancement Note: While titled "Program Assistant Design Manager," the responsibilities described (managing multiple projects, technical reviews, scope of works, tender assessment) indicate a role with significant project management and design oversight responsibilities, potentially aligning with a Design Manager or Senior Project Engineer level in other organizations. The "Assistant" might denote support to a lead Program Manager or a specific focus on assisting with the design phase of larger programs.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Oversee the entire building design process, ensuring all new and modernized structures meet educational and building standards, as well as specific client and District guidelines.
• Establish and implement an effective design review process to ensure projects align with overarching goals, objectives, and performance standards.
• Manage multiple concurrent projects, including engineering repair and critical repair initiatives, facilitating communication and collaboration among Architects, consultants, and client administrators.
• Provide clear and consistent direction to architectural firms regarding project goals, objectives, standards, site considerations, schedules, and budgets.
• Lead the selection process for architectural firms, evaluating qualifications and capabilities to ensure suitability for each project based on performance standards.
• Conduct detailed technical reviews of designs from conceptualization through to detailed design phases, ensuring constructability and compliance.
• Coordinate and manage design submissions from consultants and contractors, ensuring timely and accurate delivery.
• Facilitate the coordination of different design disciplines and manage interfaces across various sectors and project elements.
• Manage documentation using appropriate software and systems, maintaining organized project records.
• Prepare detailed Scope of Works (SOW) and Requests for Proposals (RFPs) for design and construction services.
• Perform technical assessments of submitted tenders and proposals, providing recommendations for selection.
• Implement and maintain quality management systems, ensuring compliance with established design procedures and standards.
• Monitor and report on program progress, cost control, and schedule adherence, identifying potential risks and proposing mitigation strategies.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including construction managers and client stakeholders, to ensure seamless project execution.
• Perform other assigned duties to support program and project objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities suggest a strong emphasis on process adherence, quality assurance, and stakeholder management within the design and pre-construction phases of infrastructure and building projects, particularly within the public sector (educational facilities).

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor of Science (BS) or Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree from an accredited institution.

Experience:

• Minimum of four (4) years of relevant professional experience in design, planning, and construction.
• An additional five (5) years of experience specifically in the design, planning, and construction of educational facilities or public agency projects is required. This brings the total relevant experience to a minimum of nine (9) years.

Required Skills:

• Design Management: Proven ability to manage and coordinate multi-disciplinary designs and conduct technical reviews.
• Project Management: Strong capabilities in managing multiple projects, including scope, schedule, budget, and stakeholder communication.
• Technical Reviews: Expertise in performing detailed technical assessments from concept to detailed design.
• Quality Management: Experience in implementing and adhering to quality management systems and design procedures.
• Budget Management: Ability to review design changes and ensure projects remain within allocated budgets.
• Documentation Management: Proficiency in managing project documentation using appropriate software and systems.
• Coordination: Skill in coordinating design consultants, contractor submissions, and different design disciplines.
• Client Interaction: Ability to provide clear direction and manage relationships with architects, consultants, and client personnel.
• Understanding of Architectural Standards: Knowledge of client standards, guidelines, and educational facility requirements.

Preferred Skills:

• DBIA Certified: Design-Build Institute of America certification.
• Professional Licensure: A valid Certificate of Registration as an Architect by the California State Architectural Board OR a Professional Engineer by the State Board for Professional Engineers.
• CCM Certification: Certified Construction Manager certification.
• Commercial Experience: Demonstrated experience in commercial aspects of project management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The combination of a BA/BS + 4 years, plus an additional 5 years specifically in educational facilities, points to a need for substantial, specialized experience. The preferred certifications and licenses indicate a strong preference for candidates with recognized expertise in architecture, engineering, or construction management, particularly within California.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Oversight Case Studies: Showcase examples of projects where you managed or significantly contributed to the design process, detailing your role in ensuring compliance with standards and objectives.
• Process Improvement Examples: Document instances where you established or refined design review processes, selection criteria for consultants, or coordination methodologies, highlighting efficiency gains or improved outcomes.
• Technical Review Documentation: Present examples of technical review reports or summaries for architectural or engineering designs, demonstrating your ability to identify critical issues and provide actionable recommendations.
• Scope of Work & RFP Development: Include samples of Scopes of Works or Requests for Proposals you have prepared, showcasing your ability to clearly define project requirements and evaluation criteria for design services.

Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate experience in developing and documenting design review workflows, from initial submission to final approval.
• Provide evidence of creating and implementing processes for coordinating multi-disciplinary design inputs and managing contractor/designer submissions.
• Showcase methods for monitoring and reporting on design program status, including cost control and schedule adherence, with examples of reporting templates or dashboards.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio for this role should emphasize structured processes, clear documentation, and tangible results from design management and consultant coordination efforts. Candidates should be prepared to discuss the methodologies behind their portfolio pieces.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: The typical salary range for a Program Assistant Design Manager in Orange, California, with 5-10 years of experience and specialized public sector/educational facility experience, would likely fall between $90,000 - $130,000 annually. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for similar project management and design coordination roles in the Southern California region, considering the complexity of managing public infrastructure projects and the requirement for specialized experience.

Benefits:

• Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance: Comprehensive health coverage options.
• Life Insurance & AD&D: Financial protection for employees and their families.
• Disability Benefits: Short-term and long-term disability coverage.
• Paid Time Off (PTO): Generous vacation, sick leave, and holiday pay.
• Leaves of Absences: Support for extended time off when needed.
• Voluntary Benefits: Additional insurance options (e.g., critical illness, accident).
• Perks: Employee discount programs and other lifestyle benefits.
• Flexible Work Options: While this role is on-site, AECOM may offer flexibility in other aspects or future roles.
• Well-being Resources: Programs and tools to support employee health and wellness.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services.
• Business Travel Insurance: Coverage for work-related travel.
• Service Recognition Awards: Acknowledgment for dedication and tenure.
• Retirement Savings Plan: 401(k) or similar plan with potential company match.
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP): Opportunity to invest in AECOM stock.

Working Hours:

• Typically 40 hours per week, aligned with standard business operations. Flexibility may be required to meet project deadlines and attend critical meetings.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on publicly available compensation data for similar roles in the specified location and experience level. Actual compensation may vary based on specific qualifications, negotiation, and AECOM's internal compensation structure.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Infrastructure Consulting, Engineering, Construction Management. AECOM operates globally, providing a wide range of professional services across sectors like transportation, buildings, water, energy, and environment. Company Size: AECOM is a large, publicly traded company with over 50,000 employees globally, indicating a structured corporate environment with extensive resources and established processes. Founded: AECOM has a long history, with its roots tracing back to 1910. This longevity suggests a stable, experienced organization with a deep understanding of the infrastructure sector.

Team Structure:

• Operations Team: Likely composed of experienced project managers, design coordinators, engineers, and support staff focused on delivering client projects.
• Reporting Structure: The "Program Assistant Design Manager" would likely report to a senior Program Manager or Director of Design, with dotted-line reporting to project managers for specific project assignments.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: Strong emphasis on collaboration with architectural firms, engineering consultants, construction teams, client representatives, and internal AECOM disciplines to ensure integrated project delivery.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: AECOM likely employs data analytics for project planning, risk assessment, and performance monitoring, especially in managing large-scale programs.
• Process Optimization: A focus on refining workflows, standards, and best practices across project lifecycles to enhance efficiency, quality, and client satisfaction.
• Automation & Technology: Utilization of advanced digital tools for design, modeling, documentation, and project management to streamline operations and improve collaboration.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's scale and industry position suggest a culture that values technical expertise, rigorous project management, and a commitment to client success. The company's global presence also implies exposure to diverse projects and best practices.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role sits at a mid-to-senior level within the project and design management career path. It requires a foundation of technical expertise combined with significant project coordination and management experience, particularly within the public sector and educational facility design.

Reporting Structure: Typically, this role reports to a Senior Program Manager, Director of Design, or a similar leadership position overseeing multiple projects or a large program. The individual will manage relationships with external design consultants and coordinate with internal project teams.

Operations Impact: The Program Assistant Design Manager directly influences project success by ensuring designs are compliant, cost-effective, and delivered on schedule. Their work is critical in translating client needs into tangible infrastructure assets, impacting community development, educational outcomes, and AECOM's reputation and profitability.

Growth Opportunities:

• Advancement to Design Manager/Program Manager: With demonstrated success, progression to managing larger, more complex design programs or leading entire projects.
• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas like educational facility design, sustainable design, or advanced construction technologies.
• Leadership Development: Engage in AECOM's leadership training programs to hone skills in team management, strategic planning, and business development.
• Professional Certifications: Support and encouragement to obtain preferred certifications (DBIA, CCM, Professional Engineering/Architectural licenses) to enhance credentials and career scope.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's global reach and commitment to employee development suggest a clear career ladder for individuals demonstrating strong performance in program and design management roles. The focus on public sector projects offers a stable career path with opportunities for significant impact.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role, implying a traditional office environment within AECOM's Orange, California, location. The workspace will likely be professional, with cubicles or shared office spaces designed for focused work and collaboration.

Office Location(s): The position is based in Orange, California, a part of the greater Los Angeles metropolitan area. This location offers access to major transportation routes and a vibrant professional community.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The office will facilitate interaction with colleagues from various disciplines within AECOM, fostering a collaborative approach to problem-solving.
• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to standard office technology, project management software, design collaboration platforms, and AECOM's internal IT infrastructure.
• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular team meetings, project reviews, and informal discussions with peers and leadership.

Work Schedule:

• A standard 40-hour work week is expected, with potential for extended hours during critical project phases or to meet urgent deadlines. The on-site nature requires consistent presence during business hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement suggests a preference for direct team collaboration and hands-on involvement in project coordination activities, which are often best managed from a central office location.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess basic qualifications, experience, and alignment with the role requirements.
• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion focused on your project management experience, technical design review capabilities, and understanding of educational facility standards. Expect questions about your approach to managing consultants, budgets, and schedules.
• Technical Assessment/Case Study: You may be asked to present a portfolio piece or discuss a hypothetical design management challenge. This could involve outlining your process for managing a specific type of project (e.g., school renovation) or a technical review scenario.
• Team/Stakeholder Interview: An opportunity to meet potential colleagues or stakeholders to assess cultural fit, collaboration style, and communication skills.
• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership to discuss your strategic approach, long-term career aspirations, and overall fit within AECOM.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Process & Methodology: Clearly articulate the steps you took in your past roles, focusing on your decision-making process, problem-solving techniques, and adherence to established procedures.
• Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use data and metrics to demonstrate the impact of your work. For example, "Managed design phase for a $15M school expansion, ensuring completion 2 weeks ahead of schedule and 5% under budget."
• Showcase Coordination: Include examples of how you effectively coordinated with multiple disciplines and stakeholders, emphasizing communication strategies and conflict resolution.
• Tailor to Educational Facilities: If possible, feature projects related to educational institutions or public agencies to directly align with the role's specific requirements.
• Prepare for Technical Questions: Be ready to discuss specific challenges encountered in design reviews, your approach to risk management, and your understanding of building codes and standards.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Review Simulation: Practice outlining your approach to reviewing architectural drawings, specifications, and consultant reports for compliance and constructability.
• Stakeholder Management Scenarios: Prepare to discuss how you would handle disagreements between design consultants, manage client expectations during budget constraints, or communicate project status to various stakeholders.
• Process Improvement Discussion: Be ready to explain how you would assess and improve existing design management processes within a new organization or project.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the emphasis on process and technical review, candidates should prepare to demonstrate a structured, analytical approach to design management and a strong understanding of the project lifecycle in public infrastructure.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Platforms such as Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Procore, or AECOM's internal project management systems for scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking.
• Design Collaboration Platforms: Tools like Autodesk BIM 360, Bentley ProjectWise, or similar platforms for managing and reviewing design documents and models.
• Document Management Systems: Enterprise content management systems for organizing, storing, and retrieving project documentation.
• Microsoft Office Suite: Proficiency in Word, Excel (for budgeting, tracking, analysis), PowerPoint (for presentations), and Outlook (for communication).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Potentially Excel for detailed analysis, or access to business intelligence tools if AECOM uses them for project performance reporting.
• Reporting Dashboards: Experience with or ability to create and interpret project status reports and dashboards that track key performance indicators (KPIs) related to design progress, budget, and schedule.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design project data integrates with broader client management systems or enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems may be beneficial.
• Familiarity with workflow automation tools for document routing, approval processes, or task management could be advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with industry-standard project management and design collaboration software is essential. The ability to leverage data for reporting and analysis will be a significant advantage.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity & Client Focus: AECOM emphasizes ethical conduct and a strong commitment to meeting client needs and delivering on promises. This translates to ensuring designs are robust, compliant, and deliver value.
• Excellence & Innovation: A drive for high-quality work, pushing boundaries in design and project execution, and adopting new technologies and methodologies.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: A belief in the power of diverse teams working together, sharing knowledge, and supporting each other to achieve common goals.
• Safety & Sustainability: Prioritizing the safety of employees and the public, and integrating sustainable practices into design and project delivery.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expect a collaborative environment where design, engineering, construction, and client management teams work closely together. Open communication channels are vital.
• Process-Driven Feedback: A culture that values constructive feedback on processes and designs to foster continuous improvement. Regular design reviews and team debriefs are common.
• Knowledge Sharing: Encouragement of sharing best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise across projects and teams to elevate overall organizational capability.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should demonstrate an ability to operate within a structured, professional environment that values technical rigor, collaborative problem-solving, and a commitment to delivering impactful infrastructure projects.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Diverse Stakeholder Expectations: Balancing the needs and priorities of various clients, consultants, internal teams, and regulatory bodies.
• Navigating Complex Regulatory Environments: Ensuring compliance with a multitude of building codes, zoning laws, and client-specific standards, especially for public and educational facilities.
• Budget and Schedule Constraints: Delivering high-quality designs within tight financial and time limitations, requiring efficient resource management and proactive risk mitigation.
• Keeping Pace with Evolving Technologies: Adapting to new design software, collaboration tools, and construction methodologies to maintain a competitive edge.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Management Training: Access to AECOM's internal training programs on project management, design coordination, and specific technical areas.
• Industry Conferences & Seminars: Opportunities to attend events focused on infrastructure, education facilities, or design-build to stay abreast of industry trends and network.
• Mentorship Programs: Participation in formal or informal mentorship to gain insights from experienced leaders within AECOM.
• Professional Certification Support: Encouragement and potential financial assistance for pursuing preferred certifications like DBIA or CCM.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents an excellent opportunity to tackle complex design challenges within a supportive, growth-oriented organization. Proactive engagement with learning opportunities will be key to long-term success.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for selecting an architectural firm for a public educational facility project. What are your key evaluation criteria?"
• "How do you ensure design compliance with both client standards and building codes when managing multiple disciplines on a large project?"
• "Walk me through a time you had to manage a design change that significantly impacted the project budget or schedule. What was your approach and the outcome?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about AECOM and specifically this Program Assistant Design Manager role within our infrastructure division?"
• "How do you foster collaboration among diverse design teams and external consultants?"
• "Describe your approach to quality management in the design phase of a project."

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each portfolio example, clearly define the project scope, your role, the challenges faced, the processes you implemented, and the quantifiable results achieved.
• Focus on Process & Impact: Emphasize how you managed the design process and what impact your actions had on project outcomes (e.g., cost savings, schedule adherence, quality improvements).
• Be Ready for Technical Deep Dives: Prepare to elaborate on specific technical reviews, coordination challenges, or documentation management strategies presented in your portfolio.
• Connect to AECOM's Values: Frame your experiences and approach in a way that demonstrates alignment with AECOM's values of integrity, excellence, collaboration, and safety.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be looking for evidence of structured problem-solving, strong communication skills, a deep understanding of the design and construction lifecycle, and the ability to manage complex projects effectively within a corporate environment.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Program Assistant Design Manager position:

• Submit Your Application: Complete and submit your application through the AECOM careers portal.
• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight experience directly relevant to design management, project coordination, educational facilities, and public sector projects. Use keywords from the job description.
• Prepare Your Portfolio: Gather examples of your work that showcase your project management skills, design review capabilities, coordination efforts, and process improvements. Be ready to discuss these thoroughly.
• Research AECOM: Understand AECOM's mission, values, recent projects, and its role in the infrastructure sector, particularly in California.
• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare answers to common interview questions, focusing on behavioral examples that demonstrate your qualifications and fit for the role.

⚠️ 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.

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