SENIOR DESIGN-BUILD DESIGN MANAGER at Parsons Corporation

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Design-Build Design Manager Company: Parsons Corporation Location: Akron, Ohio, United States (Remote Options Available) Job Type: FULL_TIME Category: Infrastructure Design & Management (Design-Build Focus) Date Posted: August 20, 2025 Experience Level: 15+ Years

🚀 Role Summary

This role focuses on the strategic leadership and operational management of large-scale, complex design-build infrastructure projects, specifically within transportation (road and highway).
The position demands a deep understanding of the end-to-end design-build lifecycle, from initial pursuit and scope development to final delivery and commercial performance.
It involves leading and collaborating with multidisciplinary engineering and construction teams, ensuring project success against significant financial and technical objectives.
A key aspect is driving winning strategies for project proposals and managing stakeholder relationships to foster successful project outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the input data categorizes this as a general "Infrastructure Design & Management" role, the core responsibilities and required skills strongly indicate a specialization in Design-Build Project Management within the Transportation Infrastructure sector. The emphasis on proposal strategy, scope management, and commercial performance aligns with advanced operations and project leadership functions.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

Lead and manage the design aspects of large-scale (>$1 billion total installed cost) design-build transportation infrastructure projects, including roadways and bridges.
Drive the marketing and pursuit strategy for design-build opportunities, contributing to the development of winning proposals and scope definition.
Oversee and manage project scope throughout the design and construction phases, ensuring alignment with client requirements and commercial objectives.
Provide technical and managerial direction to multidisciplinary design teams, ensuring the delivery of high-quality engineering solutions.
Foster and maintain strong collaborative relationships with clients, stakeholders, joint venture partners, and internal teams to ensure project alignment and success.
Monitor and manage the commercial performance of the design-build project, focusing on profitability, risk mitigation, and contract adherence.
Ensure compliance with all relevant engineering standards, codes, regulations, and Parsons' quality assurance procedures.
Direct and mentor junior design staff and project engineers, promoting professional development and team growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary responsibilities are enhanced to reflect the senior-level oversight and strategic input expected of a Design-Build Design Manager, emphasizing their role in the pursuit phase (marketing strategy, proposal development) and the operational management of the design component throughout the project lifecycle.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering or a closely related engineering discipline.

Experience:

A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in related work, with a significant focus on design and management of large-scale infrastructure projects.
Demonstrated experience in the Design-Build delivery method, specifically in a Design Manager capacity.
Proven track record of leading multidisciplinary teams on challenging, high-profile transportation projects, such as roadways or bridges.

Required Skills:

Professional Engineering License: Must possess a valid Professional Engineer (PE) license.
Design-Build Expertise: In-depth knowledge and practical experience managing the design component of Design-Build projects.
Technical Design Proficiency: Strong background in roadway and/or bridge design principles and practices.
Team Leadership: Proven ability to lead complex, multidisciplinary engineering teams effectively.
Project Management Fundamentals: Understanding of project management principles, including scope, schedule, and budget management for design activities.
Stakeholder Engagement: Ability to foster collaboration and manage relationships with diverse stakeholders.

Preferred Skills:

Proposal Strategy: Demonstrated success in developing winning strategies for project proposals and pursuits.
Commercial Acumen: Strong business sense and understanding of commercial aspects of project delivery, including risk and contract management.
Leadership Style: A hands-on, proactive leader with excellent presence and professionalism, capable of influencing outcomes.
Advanced Degree: Master's degree in Civil Engineering or a related field.
Public Speaking/Presentation Skills: Ability to effectively present technical information and project strategies to clients and stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required and preferred skills are expanded to highlight the essential technical competencies (PE, specific design experience), leadership capabilities (team management, stakeholder engagement), and strategic business acumen (proposal development, commercial understanding) crucial for a Senior Design-Build Design Manager.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

Showcase successful project delivery within the Design-Build framework, highlighting your role as Design Manager.
Present evidence of managing complex technical challenges and delivering innovative design solutions for transportation infrastructure.
Detail your approach to scope definition, management, and change control in Design-Build projects.
Demonstrate experience in leading and coordinating multidisciplinary design teams, including structural, civil, traffic, and environmental engineers.
Include examples of how you've ensured design compliance with client requirements, industry standards, and regulatory frameworks.

Process Documentation:

Provide examples of process workflows for managing the design phase of Design-Build projects, from initial concept to final design submission.
Illustrate your methods for quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) within the design process, including peer reviews and constructability reviews.
Showcase your approach to risk identification, assessment, and mitigation specifically related to design elements in Design-Build projects.
Document your experience in managing design schedules and budgets, and how you track progress and performance against these metrics.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section is tailored to the specific demands of a Design-Build Design Manager role. The portfolio requirements emphasize demonstrating leadership in the design process within the Design-Build context, focusing on coordination, quality, and scope management, which are critical operational aspects of this position.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $144,800.00 - $260,600.00 USD per year

Benefits:

Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
Retirement Savings: 401(k) plan with company match.
Employee Ownership: Participation in the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), providing long-term wealth accumulation potential.
Time Off: Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) and paid holidays to support work-life balance.
Financial Security: Life insurance coverage.
Work Flexibility: Flexible work schedules and remote work options available, allowing for better integration of personal and professional commitments.
Professional Development: Opportunities for continuous learning and career advancement.

Working Hours:

Standard full-time work schedule, typically 40 hours per week. Flexibility may be offered based on project needs and team agreements, aligning with the "Flexible Work Schedules" benefit.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is directly extracted. Benefits are detailed with an emphasis on those particularly attractive to senior professionals seeking long-term stability and work-life balance, such as ESOP and flexible scheduling. The "Remote OK" status indicates potential for significant flexibility.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: The company operates within the Engineering, Consulting, and Construction sector, specializing in infrastructure development. Parsons is a global leader, particularly strong in transportation, defense, and critical infrastructure.

Company Size: Parsons Corporation is a large, publicly traded company, indicated by its stock availability and extensive project portfolio. This implies a structured, resource-rich environment with established processes and a global reach.

Founded: Parsons was founded in 1944, signifying a long history of experience, stability, and deep industry knowledge, which translates to robust operational frameworks and a culture of reliability.

Team Structure:

Project-Centric: You will likely be part of a dedicated project team for a specific large-scale Design-Build project, comprising design engineers, construction managers, project controls specialists, procurement, and other support functions.
Functional Reporting: You will report to a senior project executive or a regional design director, with dotted-line reporting to project managers.
Cross-Functional Collaboration: This role inherently requires extensive collaboration with construction operations teams, procurement, legal, finance, and business development to ensure cohesive project delivery and pursuit success.

Methodology:

Integrated Project Delivery: Parsons emphasizes collaborative approaches, likely utilizing integrated project delivery (IPD) principles or similar collaborative frameworks for its Design-Build projects.
Data-Driven Decision Making: Expect a strong reliance on data analytics for project performance tracking, risk assessment, and strategic decision-making.
Process Optimization: A focus on continuous improvement and efficiency in design and project execution processes is typical for a company of this caliber.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context is enriched by inferring organizational structure and operational methodologies common for a large, established engineering firm specializing in major infrastructure projects. This provides a candidate with insight into the typical work environment and collaborative dynamics.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior-level position, indicating significant responsibility and a leadership role within the design management function of Design-Build projects. It sits at a critical intersection of technical design leadership and project commercial management.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Design-Build Design Manager will likely report to a Program Manager or a Vice President of Design/Engineering. They will lead a team of design engineers and coordinate closely with construction project managers and other key project stakeholders.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct and substantial impact on the operational success and commercial viability of major infrastructure projects. Effective design management ensures constructability, cost control, schedule adherence, and client satisfaction, all of which are critical to Parsons' overall business objectives and profitability.

Growth Opportunities:

Program Management: Progression to Program Manager, overseeing multiple large Design-Build projects or a significant portfolio of work.
Executive Leadership: Advancement into senior executive roles such as Vice President of Engineering, Director of Operations, or similar leadership positions within Parsons' Critical Infrastructure sector.
Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific complex infrastructure types or advanced design technologies, becoming a recognized subject matter expert.
Business Development: Transition into roles focused on business development and client relationship management, leveraging extensive project delivery experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career analysis focuses on typical progression paths for senior operations and project management professionals within large engineering firms, highlighting how this role serves as a critical stepping stone to broader leadership and strategic responsibilities.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role offers flexibility with the possibility of being based remotely, but also has a physical office presence in Akron, Ohio. This suggests a hybrid approach where remote employees may travel to project sites or a central office as needed.

Office Location(s): The primary office location mentioned is Akron, Ohio. However, the "Remote Options Available" and "US - Remote (Any Location)" designations indicate that the role is not strictly tied to a single physical office and can be performed from various locations within the United States.

Workspace Context:

Hybrid/Remote Flexibility: Candidates can expect a work environment that accommodates remote work, requiring strong self-management and communication skills.
Collaborative Platforms: Reliance on digital collaboration tools and platforms to connect with dispersed teams and stakeholders.
Project Site Interaction: While remote work is an option, travel to project sites will be a necessary component of the role for oversight, team engagement, and client meetings. This indicates a need for adaptability between home office and field environments.
Team Integration: Opportunities to interact with diverse, experienced professionals across engineering disciplines and project management functions.

Work Schedule: The role is full-time, with a standard 40-hour work week. The "Flexible Work Schedules" benefit suggests that while core hours may apply, there is some latitude in managing daily schedules, which can be beneficial for managing remote work and project demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section clarifies the implications of the "Remote OK" status for a senior-level role, emphasizing the need for travel and the blend of remote and on-site collaboration inherent in managing large infrastructure projects.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

Initial Screening: HR or recruiter call to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.
Hiring Manager/Team Interview: In-depth discussion focusing on technical expertise, design-build experience, leadership style, and project management approach. This may include behavioral questions.
Technical/Case Study: A potential case study or problem-solving exercise related to managing a complex design-build challenge or developing a pursuit strategy. Candidates may be asked to present on past projects.
Stakeholder/Executive Interview: Meeting with senior leadership to discuss strategic alignment, business acumen, and overall fit within Parsons' vision.
Reference Checks: Verification of professional experience and performance with previous employers.

Portfolio Review Tips:

Structure for Impact: Organize your portfolio by project type or key responsibilities. For each project, clearly articulate the challenge, your specific role and contributions as Design Manager, the solutions implemented, and the quantifiable outcomes (e.g., cost savings, schedule improvements, design innovation).
Highlight Design-Build Expertise: Specifically showcase projects delivered using the Design-Build method, detailing your management of the design scope, coordination with construction, and risk mitigation strategies.
Quantify Achievements: Wherever possible, use metrics to demonstrate your impact. For example, "Managed a design team of 25 engineers, delivering the project 3 months ahead of schedule and 5% under budget."
Visual Aids: If presenting digitally, use clear visuals, charts, and diagrams to illustrate complex designs or processes. Ensure your presentation is concise and focused on delivering key messages efficiently.
Tailor to Parsons: Research Parsons' recent projects and client base. Be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with their strategic goals and current project portfolio.

Challenge Preparation:

Design-Build Scenarios: Anticipate questions about managing design risks in Design-Build, coordinating design with construction schedules, and resolving constructability issues.
Leadership Scenarios: Prepare examples of how you've motivated teams, managed conflict, and driven consensus among diverse stakeholders.
Pursuit Strategy: Be ready to discuss your approach to analyzing RFPs, developing technical proposals, and identifying key win themes.
Commercial Awareness: Understand how design decisions impact project cost, schedule, and risk.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides actionable advice for preparing for the interview process specific to a senior design-build role, emphasizing portfolio content that demonstrates leadership, technical acumen, and commercial understanding relevant to Parsons.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

CAD Software: Proficiency with industry-standard CAD software such as AutoCAD, MicroStation, or similar, for reviewing and understanding design deliverables.
Project Management Software: Experience with project management platforms like Primavera P6, Microsoft Project, or similar for scheduling and resource management.
Collaboration Platforms: Familiarity with tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, Bluebeam Revu, or similar for team communication and document sharing.

Analytics & Reporting:

Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret data from project management systems, financial reports, and performance dashboards. Familiarity with tools that facilitate data visualization and reporting.
Microsoft Excel: Advanced proficiency for data analysis, financial modeling, and reporting.

CRM & Automation:

While not a direct CRM role, understanding how CRM data feeds into business development and proposal efforts would be beneficial.
Experience with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems or project-specific financial management software for tracking project costs and performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The tools listed are common in large engineering and construction firms for project management, design coordination, and business operations. The focus is on tools that support the management and oversight of design processes and project commercials.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

Excellence in Delivery: A commitment to high-quality engineering and successful project execution, meeting or exceeding client expectations.
Integrity and Ethics: Upholding the highest standards of ethical conduct in all business dealings and project activities.
Innovation and Problem Solving: Encouraging creative solutions to complex engineering challenges and driving efficiency through innovative approaches.
Collaboration and Teamwork: Fostering a cooperative environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and collective efforts lead to success.
Safety and Sustainability: Prioritizing the safety of personnel and the public, and integrating sustainable design practices.

Collaboration Style:

Cross-Functional Integration: Expect a highly collaborative environment where design teams work closely with construction, procurement, and project controls to ensure seamless project delivery.
Open Communication: A culture that encourages open dialogue, feedback exchange, and proactive communication to address issues and opportunities promptly.
Knowledge Sharing: Emphasis on sharing best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise across project teams to drive continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The team culture and values are inferred from Parsons' established reputation as a global engineering leader, emphasizing professionalism, technical excellence, and collaborative problem-solving.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

Managing Scale and Complexity: Overseeing design for multi-billion dollar projects with numerous interdependencies requires exceptional organizational and problem-solving skills.
Balancing Design & Commercial Goals: Effectively integrating design requirements with commercial objectives, schedule constraints, and risk management in a Design-Build environment.
Stakeholder Alignment: Navigating diverse stakeholder interests and ensuring consensus on design and project direction.
Remote Team Management: Leading and motivating dispersed multidisciplinary teams to maintain high performance and collaboration.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

Advanced Project Management: Access to training and certifications in advanced project management methodologies and best practices.
Industry Leadership: Opportunities to engage with industry associations, conferences, and thought leaders to stay abreast of emerging trends and technologies.
Mentorship: Potential for mentorship from senior executives within Parsons, providing guidance on career progression and leadership development.
Exposure to Diverse Projects: Gaining experience across a wide range of significant transportation infrastructure projects, broadening technical and leadership expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges are framed around the inherent complexities of large-scale design-build projects and senior leadership roles, while growth opportunities highlight professional development within a large, resource-rich organization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

Design-Build Lifecycle: "Describe your approach to managing the design phase of a Design-Build project from pursuit to completion. What are the key operational considerations at each stage?" (Focus on scope management, risk identification, quality control, and team coordination.)
Pursuit Strategy: "How do you contribute to developing a winning strategy for a major Design-Build proposal? What key elements do you focus on from a design perspective?" (Emphasize understanding client needs, competitive analysis, and innovative technical solutions.)
Team Leadership & Collaboration: "Describe a time you had to lead a diverse team of engineers on a challenging project. How did you ensure effective collaboration and manage conflicting priorities?" (Use the STAR method to showcase leadership, communication, and conflict resolution skills.)
Commercial Acumen: "How do you ensure the design stays within budget and schedule while meeting all technical requirements? Provide an example of a commercial challenge you faced in a design role and how you resolved it." (Demonstrate understanding of cost control, risk mitigation, and contract management.)

Company & Culture Questions:

"What interests you about Parsons and this specific Senior Design-Build Design Manager role?" (Research Parsons' recent projects, values, and strategic initiatives.)
"How do you align with Parsons' commitment to innovation and client-focused solutions?" (Prepare examples of how you've driven innovation or solved complex client problems.)
"Describe your leadership style and how you foster a collaborative team environment." (Connect your style to Parsons' stated values.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

Concise Executive Summary: Start with a high-level overview of your most impactful projects, highlighting your role as Design Manager and key achievements.
Deep Dive on Key Projects: Select 2-3 relevant projects for detailed discussion. For each, cover the project's scope/challenges, your specific operational contributions (design management, team leadership), key design-build process elements, and quantifiable results.
Visual Clarity: Use slides with minimal text, focusing on impactful images, diagrams, and key performance indicators.
Focus on "How": Explain how you achieved results, not just what you achieved. Detail your processes, decision-making, and problem-solving approaches.
Q&A Readiness: Be prepared to answer detailed questions about your portfolio, your technical expertise, and your understanding of Design-Build operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation is tailored to the seniority and specific demands of the Design-Build Design Manager role, focusing on strategic thinking, operational execution, and leadership.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Design-Build Design Manager position:

Submit your application directly through the Parsons careers portal via the provided URL.
Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight your 15+ years of experience, specifically emphasizing your role as a Design Manager on large-scale Design-Build transportation projects. Quantify achievements related to project value, schedule adherence, cost control, and team leadership. Ensure "Registered Professional Engineer" and "Design/Build Experience" are prominent.
Portfolio Preparation: Curate a portfolio that clearly demonstrates your capabilities in managing design scope, leading multidisciplinary teams, and driving successful outcomes in Design-Build projects. Prepare concise case studies that showcase your problem-solving skills and impact.
Company Research: Thoroughly research Parsons Corporation, its recent projects (especially in transportation infrastructure), its values, and its market position. Understand their approach to Design-Build delivery.
Interview Practice: Prepare to discuss your experience using the STAR method, focusing on behavioral questions related to leadership, problem-solving, and stakeholder management. Practice articulating your approach to Design-Build project management and pursuit strategies.

⚠️ 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.

SENIOR DESIGN-BUILD DESIGN MANAGER