Senior Design Manager - Multi-disciplinary Projects

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Design Manager - Multi-disciplinary Projects Company: Arcadis Location: Novi, MI; Albany, NY; Detroit, MI; Lansing, MI; Cleveland, OH; US (Remote OK) Job Type: FULL_TIME Category: Design Management / Project Management (Built Environment) Date Posted: 2025-10-23T02:43:43.321 Experience Level: 10+ years Remote Status: Remote OK

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and coordinate complex, multi-disciplinary design and engineering projects within the built environment sector.
• Drive strategic pursuits, developing winning delivery strategies and accurate fee projections to meet business financial targets.
• Oversee financial and project management controls, ensuring effective monitoring, modification, and forecasting.
• Manage the acquisition, deployment, and optimization of project resources to ensure efficient service delivery.
• Champion the implementation of design delivery best practices, including risk and change management, using digital technologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Senior Design Manager," the responsibilities heavily lean into project and financial management within a design and engineering context. The role requires a blend of technical understanding of the built environment and strong commercial acumen, aligning it closely with "Revenue Operations" principles through project financial success and client relationship management within a consultancy framework. The "Multi-disciplinary Projects" aspect indicates a need for strong cross-functional coordination, a key element in GTM and RevOps.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Coordinate with internal and external architects, engineers, designers, consultants, and managers to align strategic objectives and project progress.
• Spearhead strategic pursuits, creating winning delivery strategies, developing fee projections to achieve financial targets, and selecting the most advantageous delivery approach.
• Take responsibility for financial and project management controls, enabling monitoring, modification, and forecasting as appropriate.
• Manage the acquisition, deployment, and optimization of resources for projects, ensuring efficient allocation and utilization.
• Drive timely service delivery, encompassing technical and commercial outcomes, and conduct reviews to ensure delivery exceeds client expectations.
• Effectively implement design delivery best practices, including risk and change management, project set-up, and planning, utilizing internal and external digital technologies.
• Develop comprehensive project plans of execution for a variety of Design and Engineering service deliveries, quickly understanding specified project scopes.
• Deliver compelling client presentations, prepare detailed written reports, and communicate technical concepts, specifically concerning scoping requirements and associated risks.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on financial targets, fee projections, and project financial controls indicates a strong commercial and operational focus. This role isn't just about design coordination; it's about the commercial viability and efficient delivery of design services, directly impacting revenue generation and project profitability for Arcadis.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Engineering, or a related field focused on the built environment.

Experience:

• 10+ years of relevant experience leading large, multi-disciplinary design-engineered solutions and construction projects.
• Proven financial background related to projects and client management.

Required Skills:

• Design Management: Expertise in overseeing and coordinating complex design processes for built environment projects.
• Project Management: Demonstrated ability to manage project lifecycles, timelines, and deliverables effectively.
• Financial Acumen: Strong understanding of project financials, fee development, budget control, and profitability analysis.
• Client Relationship Management: Proven experience in managing client expectations, communication, and satisfaction.
• Risk & Change Management: Proficiency in identifying, assessing, and mitigating project risks, and managing scope changes effectively.
• BIM & Autodesk Platforms: Fundamental knowledge of Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) and/or Building Information Modelling (BIM) principles and applications.
• Technical Communication: Ability to articulate complex technical concepts clearly to diverse stakeholders, including clients and project teams.
• Resource Optimization: Skills in allocating and managing human and technical resources for maximum project efficiency.
• Strategic Planning: Capacity to develop and execute strategic plans for project pursuits and delivery.

Preferred Skills:

• Certified Project Management (CPM): Must obtain certification within 30 days of hire (company-provided training available).
• Professional Certifications: PE (Professional Engineer), RA (Registered Architect), or PMP (Project Management Professional) certifications are advantageous.
• Practical Sustainability Experience: Experience integrating sustainable design principles into projects.
• Mechanical Systems Knowledge: Familiarity with unique mechanical systems is a plus.
• Urban Development Experience: Experience implementing transformative solutions in urban environments.
• Industry-Specific Knowledge: Familiarity with sectors like Industrial & Logistics, Data Centres, Commercial, Retail, Residential, Defence, Social Infrastructure, Automotive, Industrial Manufacturing, Rail, Tech, Aerospace, and Aviation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement to obtain a CPM certification within 30 days highlights the company's emphasis on formal project management discipline and the operational rigor expected. The blend of technical (BIM, engineering) and commercial skills (financial management, client management) is crucial for success in this role and is highly sought after in GTM operations.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Leadership Case Studies: Demonstrate experience leading significant multi-disciplinary design and engineering projects from inception to completion.
• Financial Management Examples: Showcase examples of project financial oversight, including fee development, budget management, and profitability reporting.
• Client Engagement Documentation: Provide evidence of successful client management, including presentation materials, proposals, or feedback summaries.
• Process Improvement Initiatives: Highlight instances where you implemented or improved design delivery processes, risk management protocols, or resource allocation strategies.
• Technology Integration: Illustrate experience using digital technologies, such as Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) or BIM, within project delivery workflows.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Demonstrate ability to map, analyze, and optimize design and engineering workflows for efficiency and effectiveness.
• Implementation & Automation: Show understanding of how to implement new processes and leverage technology for automation in project delivery.
• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Evidence of establishing metrics to track project performance, client satisfaction, and financial outcomes, and using this data for continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Senior Design Manager role, a portfolio is critical. It needs to go beyond just showcasing completed projects; it must demonstrate the candidate's ability to manage the process of design and engineering delivery, including its financial and operational aspects. Candidates should be prepared to discuss how they've optimized workflows, managed risks, and achieved client objectives through structured processes.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $94,944 - $161,405 USD per year Actual salaries will vary and are based on several factors, such as experience, education, budget, internal equity, project, and location.

Benefits:

• Health & Wellness: Medical, Dental, Vision, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Well-being Benefits.
• Retirement: 401K.
• Insurance: Short-Term Disability (STD), Long-Term Disability (LTD), Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D), Life Insurance.
• Paid Time Off: 9 Paid Holidays, 20 PTO days that accrue per year.
• Family Support: Paid Parental Leave, Adoption Assistance.
• Professional Development: Tuition Reimbursement, Reward & Recognition Program.
• Other: Optional benefits, including well-being benefits.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours are assumed to be approximately 40 hours per week, with flexibility expected to meet project demands and client needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is competitive for a senior-level role in the US, especially considering the blend of design management, project management, and financial responsibilities. The comprehensive benefits package reflects Arcadis' commitment to employee well-being and professional growth, which is attractive to operations professionals who often value stability and support for work-life balance.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering, Design, Consultancy, Built Environment, Sustainable Solutions. Company Size: Over 36,000 employees globally. Founded: Arcadis has a long history, with origins tracing back to 1888.

Team Structure:

• The role is within the North America Places group, specifically the Design Management team.
• This team works with clients globally to create, support, and enhance sustainable places across various sectors.
• Collaboration is expected across internal architectural, engineering, and design disciplines, as well as external consultants and managers.

Methodology:

• Arcadis focuses on delivering sustainable design, engineering, and consultancy solutions.
• The company emphasizes a "power of many curious minds" approach, promoting collaboration and problem-solving.
• Integration of digital technologies and best practices in design delivery, risk management, and project set-up is core.

Company Website: arcadis.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Arcadis' global presence and large employee base suggest a structured, professional environment with established processes. The "Places" group indicates a focus on developing and improving urban and built environments, aligning with the broader GTM strategy of creating impactful solutions for clients. The emphasis on sustainability is a key differentiator and likely influences project selection and execution methodologies.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior Management, requiring significant leadership and strategic input within the design and project delivery lifecycle. This role bridges technical design expertise with commercial and operational management. Reporting Structure: While not explicitly stated, Senior Design Managers typically report to higher-level directors or VPs within the Design Management or Project Delivery functions. They will also manage and mentor junior design managers and project teams. Operations Impact: This role has a direct impact on Arcadis' revenue through successful project pursuits, efficient delivery, and client satisfaction. Effective financial management and resource optimization contribute directly to project profitability and the company's overall financial health.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Progression: Potential to advance into Director-level roles within Design Management, Project Delivery, or sector-specific leadership.
• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific sectors (e.g., Data Centres, Automotive) or advanced methodologies (e.g., digital twins, advanced sustainability integrations).
• Mentorship: Opportunity to mentor and develop junior design managers and project teams, building leadership capabilities.
• Global Mobility: With Arcadis' global presence, opportunities for international project involvement or roles may arise.
• Skill Development: Continuous learning through company-provided training, certifications (like PMP, if not already held), and exposure to diverse, complex projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career advancement within a large, established consultancy. The combination of technical oversight and commercial responsibility makes it a strong stepping stone for individuals aiming for executive leadership in the built environment sector or specialized project management roles. The "operations" aspect is embedded in the efficient and profitable delivery of services.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid/Remote-friendly, with Arcadis having multiple office locations across the US. The role allows for remote work, with travel required for site and client engagements. Office Location(s): Novi, MI; Albany, NY; Detroit, MI; Lansing, MI; Cleveland, OH; and other US locations. Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Expect to work closely with diverse teams of architects, engineers, consultants, and clients, both remotely and in person.
• Technology-Enabled: Access to Arcadis' digital tools, including Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) and BIM platforms, will be integral to daily work.
• Dynamic Project Focus: The work environment is project-driven, requiring adaptability and responsiveness to client needs and project milestones.
• Travel Component: Approximately 25% domestic travel within the United States is expected for site visits, client meetings, and project reviews.

Work Schedule:

• While a standard 40-hour work week is typical, the nature of project management and client service in a global consultancy may require flexibility in working hours to accommodate project deadlines, client time zones, and critical project phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Remote OK" status combined with required travel indicates a modern work arrangement common in consulting. Operations professionals often value this flexibility, provided there's a clear structure for remote collaboration and effective communication tools. The travel requirement is typical for client-facing roles and is important for understanding site-specific nuances.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and application to assess alignment with core requirements (experience, qualifications, skills).
• Technical/Behavioral Interviews: Discussions focused on project leadership experience, financial management, client relations, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of design/engineering processes. Expect questions about past project successes and challenges.
• Portfolio Presentation: A key stage where candidates will likely present specific case studies from their portfolio, showcasing their ability to manage complex, multi-disciplinary projects and achieve desired outcomes.
• Stakeholder/Panel Interview: Meeting with senior leaders or cross-functional representatives to assess cultural fit, strategic thinking, and overall suitability for the role and Arcadis.
• Final Offer & Onboarding: Following successful interviews and background checks.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Impact: For each case study, clearly articulate the challenge, the actions taken (your role and strategy), and the quantifiable results (financial, efficiency, client satisfaction, sustainability).
• Demonstrate Process: Show how you managed the project, not just what was delivered. Highlight your approach to planning, risk management, resource allocation, and stakeholder communication.
• Quantify Achievements: Use numbers and data wherever possible. For example, "Managed a $X million project budget," "Reduced design review cycles by Y%," "Secured Z new projects through strategic pursuits."
• Highlight Technology Use: If applicable, detail your experience with BIM, ACC, or other digital tools in managing project workflows and deliverables.
• Tailor to Arcadis: Research Arcadis' current projects and strategic priorities to tailor your presentation to their specific needs and values (e.g., sustainability, innovation).

Challenge Preparation:

• Project Scenario: Be prepared for hypothetical project scenarios where you'll need to outline your approach to planning, managing risks, and ensuring financial success.
• Financial Management Quiz: Expect questions testing your understanding of project budgeting, fee proposals, and cost control measures.
• Stakeholder Management Scenarios: Practice articulating how you would handle difficult client conversations or manage conflicting priorities among project team members.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio review and case studies is crucial for this role. Candidates should prepare to articulate their "operations" of project delivery, showcasing not just design competence but also management rigor, financial acumen, and client-centric approaches. This mirrors the need for demonstrable process expertise in GTM operations roles.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC): Expected proficiency in using ACC for project management, collaboration, and document control.
• Building Information Modelling (BIM) Software: Fundamental understanding and practical experience with BIM workflows and platforms (e.g., Revit, Navisworks) for design coordination and clash detection.
• Project Management Software: Familiarity with industry-standard project management tools beyond ACC, such as Microsoft Project, Asana, Monday.com, or similar platforms for scheduling, resource tracking, and task management.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Financial Reporting Tools: Experience with ERP systems or financial management software for project accounting, budgeting, and forecasting.
• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret project data, financial reports, and performance metrics to inform decision-making.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems (e.g., Salesforce): While not explicitly mentioned, experience with CRM systems for client management and tracking business development pursuits can be beneficial.
• Collaboration & Communication Platforms: Proficiency in Microsoft Teams, Slack, Zoom, or similar for remote team coordination and client communication.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of Autodesk platforms (ACC, BIM) is a key technical requirement. For operations professionals, understanding how these tools facilitate workflow, collaboration, and project control is paramount. Proficiency in financial reporting tools is also critical given the role's emphasis on financial management.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Sustainability: A core value at Arcadis, influencing project execution and strategic decision-making. Expect to champion sustainable design practices.
• Collaboration: Strong emphasis on teamwork and leveraging the collective expertise of a global workforce.
• Curiosity & Innovation: Encouragement to ask questions, explore new ideas, and find innovative solutions to complex challenges.
• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and exceeding client expectations by delivering high-quality, impactful solutions.
• Integrity & Accountability: Commitment to ethical conduct, transparency, and taking ownership of project outcomes.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Active collaboration with architects, engineers, consultants, and client representatives across diverse disciplines.
• Data-Driven Decision Making: Utilizing project data, performance metrics, and financial reports to guide decisions and strategy.
• Constructive Feedback: An environment that encourages open communication and the exchange of feedback to drive continuous improvement in project delivery and team performance.
• Knowledge Sharing: A culture that promotes sharing best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise across teams and projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: Arcadis' stated values—sustainability, collaboration, curiosity, client focus, integrity—are crucial for understanding the cultural fit. Operations professionals who thrive in environments that value data, efficiency, and client partnership will find this appealing. The emphasis on sustainability aligns with broader GTM trends towards ESG-focused solutions.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Complex Stakeholder Landscapes: Balancing the needs and expectations of multiple internal and external stakeholders on large, multi-disciplinary projects.
• Navigating Project Financials: Ensuring profitability and adhering to budget constraints on complex projects with potentially variable scopes.
• Driving Design Innovation within Constraints: Fostering creative design solutions while adhering to client requirements, project timelines, and budget limitations.
• Adapting to Evolving Technologies: Staying current with advancements in design software, BIM, and digital collaboration tools to maintain efficiency and competitive edge.
• Global Project Coordination: Effectively managing projects with geographically dispersed teams and clients, requiring strong communication and organizational skills.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Project Management Certifications: Support for obtaining or maintaining PMP, CPM, or other relevant project management credentials.
• Sustainability Certifications: Opportunities to gain expertise and certifications in sustainable design and construction practices (e.g., LEED, WELL).
• Sector-Specific Training: Deep dive into specialized sectors like Data Centres, Automotive, or Aerospace through internal training or external courses.
• Leadership Development Programs: Access to programs designed to enhance leadership, strategic thinking, and people management skills.
• Mentorship Programs: Guidance from experienced senior leaders within Arcadis to navigate career progression and develop key competencies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges mirror those faced in many senior operations roles: complexity, financial pressures, technological adaptation, and stakeholder management. The growth opportunities are robust, offering a clear path for individuals looking to deepen their expertise or move into higher-level leadership within the built environment sector.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Scenario-Based: "Describe a time you had to manage a project with significant budget overruns. What steps did you take, and what was the outcome?" Focus on your process for financial control and corrective action.
• Strategic Pursuit: "How would you approach developing a winning bid for a large-scale industrial development project? What key factors would you consider?" Emphasize your strategic planning and fee development approach.
• Risk Mitigation: "Walk me through your process for identifying and mitigating risks on a complex, multi-disciplinary design project." Highlight your systematic approach to risk management.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Arcadis' Mission: "How do you see your role as Senior Design Manager contributing to Arcadis' mission of delivering sustainable solutions?" Connect your experience to sustainability and client impact.
• Team Collaboration: "Describe your ideal collaboration style with architects, engineers, and external consultants." Provide examples of successful cross-functional teamwork.
• Values Alignment: "Can you provide an example of a time you demonstrated integrity or a strong client focus in a professional setting?" Align your past behaviors with Arcadis' stated values.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each project, clearly outline: 1) The Challenge, 2) Your Role & Strategy, 3) Key Actions Taken (Process), 4) Results (Quantifiable).
• Quantify Impact: Focus on metrics related to project delivery time, budget adherence, cost savings, client satisfaction scores, risk reduction, and sustainability achievements.
• Demonstrate Process & Tools: Explain how you managed the project, detailing your use of project management methodologies, financial controls, and relevant technologies (BIM, ACC).
• Tell a Story: Engage the interviewers by presenting your experience as a narrative that showcases your problem-solving skills, leadership, and ability to drive successful outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, the interview will heavily scrutinize your ability to manage projects from a commercial and operational standpoint. Prepare to discuss your experience with financial management, risk mitigation, and client relationship management with specific, data-backed examples. Your portfolio presentation is your chance to demonstrate your operational prowess.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Arcadis careers page.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight your 10+ years of experience in leading multi-disciplinary design and engineering projects, emphasizing your financial management, client management, and BIM/Autodesk proficiency. Use keywords from the job description.
• Portfolio Preparation: Curate 2-3 key project case studies that best demonstrate your leadership in complex projects, financial oversight, and process implementation. Be ready to discuss the financial aspects, risks managed, and client outcomes in detail.
• Interview Practice: Rehearse answers to common project management, financial management, and behavioral questions. Practice presenting your portfolio case studies concisely and impactfully, focusing on quantifiable results and your strategic approach.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Arcadis' recent projects, sustainability initiatives, and company values to articulate how your experience aligns with their mission and culture.

⚠️ 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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