LAUSD Design Manager - A/E Services

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: LAUSD Design Manager - A/E Services

Company: Simplex Construction Management, Inc.

Location: Los Angeles County, California, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Construction Management / Project Management

Date Posted: August 5, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ years

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversee the comprehensive facilities design and planning lifecycle for capital projects, ensuring alignment with educational institution needs and public agency standards.

• Manage all aspects of contract administration, cost estimating, and project scheduling to ensure timely and budget-conscious project delivery.

• Lead architectural and engineering service providers, fostering collaborative relationships to achieve optimal design outcomes.

• Drive efficiency and best practices in project execution, from initial concept through to final completion, with a focus on educational facilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is critical for a public education system (LAUSD), requiring a deep understanding of public sector project management, procurement processes, and stakeholder engagement within an educational context. The "A/E Services" designation highlights a focus on managing Architecture and Engineering consultants.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Direct and manage the overall design process for capital improvement projects, including scope definition, schematic design, design development, and construction documentation.

• Administer contracts with architectural and engineering firms, ensuring adherence to scope, schedule, budget, and quality requirements.

• Develop, review, and approve detailed project schedules, identifying critical path activities and potential risks.

• Oversee the preparation and validation of cost estimates at various project stages, ensuring fiscal responsibility and budget compliance.

• Coordinate with internal stakeholders, external consultants, regulatory agencies, and school district representatives to facilitate project progress and address design challenges.

• Review and approve design submittals, shop drawings, and other project-related documentation to ensure compliance with project requirements and building codes.

• Manage the change order process, evaluating requests, negotiating terms, and ensuring proper documentation and approval.

• Conduct site visits and project meetings to monitor construction progress, quality, and adherence to design intent.

• Ensure all design and construction activities comply with relevant laws, regulations, and district policies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core of this role involves acting as the primary liaison between Simplex Construction Management and the architectural/engineering (A/E) community for LAUSD projects. This requires strong technical understanding of design principles, construction methods, and public procurement to effectively manage consultants and ensure successful project outcomes.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Graduation from a recognized college or university with a bachelor’s degree in Architecture or Engineering is mandatory. Experience:

• A minimum of 8 years of full-time paid professional experience in managing facilities design or the planning and coordination of capital projects, including contract administration, cost estimating, and scheduling.

• At least 4 years of this experience must be specifically focused on the design, planning, and construction of educational facilities or similar public agency projects. Required Skills:

• Proven expertise in Facilities Design and Planning for large-scale capital projects.

• Strong capabilities in Capital Project Management, from inception through completion.

• Demonstrated proficiency in Contract Administration and management of A/E consultants.

• Advanced skills in Cost Estimating and budget control for public works projects.

• Excellent Project Scheduling and timeline management abilities.

• In-depth knowledge of Architecture and Engineering principles relevant to educational facilities.

• Experience managing projects within the Public Agency or Educational Facilities sector. Preferred Skills:

• Possession of a valid Certificate of Registration as an Architect by the California State Architectural Board.

• Possession of a valid Certificate of Registration as a Professional Engineer by the State Board for Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors.

• Familiarity with Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) specific standards, processes, and procurement procedures.

• Experience with complex construction management software and project management information systems (PMIS).

📝 Enhancement Note: The preferred licensure (Architect or PE) is a strong indicator of the technical depth expected for this role, suggesting the Design Manager will be responsible for reviewing and approving significant design elements and ensuring compliance with professional standards. Experience with public sector procurement and educational facilities is paramount, as candidates must hit the ground running with minimal ramp-up time.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a portfolio showcasing successful management of capital projects, with a specific emphasis on A/E services and educational facilities.

• Include detailed case studies of projects where you managed design phases, contract administration, and project scheduling.

• Provide evidence of experience in cost estimating and budget management for complex public works projects.

• Showcase examples of implemented processes that improved efficiency, quality, or cost-effectiveness in design and construction management. Process Documentation:

• Detail your approach to defining project scopes and developing design criteria for capital improvement projects.

• Illustrate your methodology for selecting, onboarding, and managing architectural and engineering consultants.

• Present your system for tracking project progress, managing design revisions, and ensuring quality control throughout the design and construction phases.

• Provide examples of how you have documented and optimized workflows for contract administration, cost control, and scheduling.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to present specific examples of their portfolio that highlight their experience in managing A/E consultants, their understanding of design development for educational infrastructure, and their ability to control costs and schedules in a public sector environment. Quantifiable achievements in terms of budget savings, schedule adherence, or quality improvements will be highly valued.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $173,000 - $194,000 USD per year.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Retirement savings plan with company matching contributions.

• Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

• Opportunities for professional development and continuing education.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses. Working Hours:

• This is a full-time, on-site position. Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week. Flexibility may be required to meet project demands and deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is a good faith estimate for this senior-level role in the Los Angeles area, reflecting the required experience and specialized skills in public sector construction management. The benefits package is standard for full-time roles, with particular emphasis on professional development, which is crucial for staying current in the evolving construction and design fields.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction Management & General Contracting, with a specialization in public sector projects, particularly educational facilities.

Company Size: Simplex Construction Management, Inc. is likely a medium to large-sized firm, given the scope of projects they manage, potentially ranging from 50-250 employees based on typical industry structures for firms handling large public contracts.

Founded: Founded in 2003, Simplex Construction Management, Inc. has established a significant presence in Southern California, building a reputation for delivering complex public and private sector projects.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager will likely be part of a larger Project Management or Construction Management team dedicated to the LAUSD account.

• Reporting structure will typically involve a Senior Project Manager or Director of Operations, with direct oversight of assigned A/E consultants and project teams.

• Cross-functional collaboration will be extensive, involving project managers, site superintendents, procurement specialists, and direct interaction with LAUSD representatives and school site staff. Methodology:

• Simplex likely employs a robust project management methodology, emphasizing data-driven decision-making, rigorous schedule adherence, and proactive risk management.

• Workflow planning and optimization are critical, especially in managing the complexities of public agency procurement and construction standards.

• Automation and efficiency practices are increasingly adopted to streamline reporting, communication, and project tracking.

Company Website: https://www.simplex-cm.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Simplex Construction Management's focus on public works, particularly LAUSD, implies a culture that values compliance, accountability, and long-term relationships. The company's established history suggests stability and a commitment to quality delivery within the demanding public sector environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior-level Project Management role, requiring significant experience and a proven track record in managing complex design and construction processes. The Design Manager is expected to operate with a high degree of autonomy, making critical decisions regarding design, contracts, and project execution.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will report to a senior figure within Simplex Construction Management, likely a Director of Project Management or a Vice President overseeing their LAUSD portfolio. They will manage external A/E consultants and collaborate closely with internal construction teams.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct and substantial impact on the successful delivery of critical educational infrastructure for LAUSD. Effective design management ensures that facilities are safe, functional, cost-effective, and meet the evolving needs of students and educators, thereby contributing significantly to the district's mission.

Growth Opportunities:

• Advance to Senior Design Manager or Director of Project Management roles within Simplex, potentially overseeing larger portfolios or multiple project teams.

• Develop specialized expertise in areas like sustainable design, BIM implementation, or advanced project controls within the educational construction sector.

• Transition into leadership positions within LAUSD's facilities planning or construction departments, or similar large public entities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for a Design Manager in this context is strongly tied to successful project delivery and building strong relationships with public sector clients like LAUSD. Growth is often measured by the complexity and scale of projects managed, as well as the ability to mentor junior staff and contribute to the company's strategic planning for public works.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role, requiring the candidate to be located in Southern California. The primary work location will likely be an office environment within Simplex Construction Management's facilities, potentially co-located with other project teams or at a project-specific site office.

Office Location(s): The role is based in Los Angeles County, California. Specific office details are not provided, but it will be within commuting distance for individuals residing in Southern California.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will be collaborative, involving frequent interaction with project managers, engineers, architects, and administrative staff.

• Access to standard office technology, project management software, and communication tools will be provided.

• Opportunities for site visits to active construction projects will be a regular part of the role, providing exposure to real-world project execution. Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time hours (approximately 40 hours per week) are expected. However, the demands of capital projects, especially within public agencies, may necessitate flexible hours, including occasional evenings or weekends to meet critical deadlines or attend important meetings.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "on-site" and "located in Southern California" indicates that this is not a remote or hybrid role. Candidates must be prepared for a traditional office and site-based work environment, with the expectation of being physically present to manage projects effectively.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to ensure minimum requirements (education, experience) are met.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the hiring manager to assess your overall experience, technical knowledge, and fit with Simplex and the LAUSD project context. Be prepared to discuss your management style and approach to A/E relations.

• Technical/Panel Interview: This may involve a panel of senior project managers, engineers, or LAUSD representatives. Expect questions focused on your experience with facilities design, contract administration, cost control, scheduling, and your approach to problem-solving on complex projects.

• Portfolio Review: You will likely be asked to present specific examples from your portfolio demonstrating your capabilities in managing educational facility projects, A/E consultant oversight, and successful project outcomes.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership to discuss strategic alignment and overall fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-5 projects that best represent your experience in managing A/E services for educational facilities or similar public sector capital projects.

• Focus on Impact: For each project, clearly articulate your role, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented, and the quantifiable results (e.g., budget savings, schedule adherence, quality improvements).

• Highlight A/E Management: Specifically showcase how you managed architectural and engineering consultants, including contract negotiations, performance monitoring, and issue resolution.

• Demonstrate Process: Explain the processes you used for contract administration, cost estimating, scheduling, and quality control. Use diagrams or flowcharts if helpful.

• Quantify Achievements: Wherever possible, use numbers and data to support your claims (e.g., "Managed a $50M capital program," "Reduced design review cycles by 15%," "Oversaw contracts totaling $10M").

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss hypothetical scenarios related to design conflicts, consultant performance issues, budget overruns, or schedule delays.

• Prepare to articulate your strategy for engaging with LAUSD stakeholders and ensuring their needs are met throughout the project lifecycle.

• Practice explaining complex technical or contractual issues in a clear and concise manner, suitable for both technical and non-technical audiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio and potential technical interviews suggests that Simplex is looking for a candidate with demonstrable, hands-on experience rather than just theoretical knowledge. Be prepared to discuss specific projects in detail and to answer questions that probe your problem-solving abilities and understanding of public sector construction management nuances.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency with industry-standard project management platforms such as Procore, Autodesk Construction Cloud (formerly BIM 360), or similar systems for managing project documentation, RFIs, submittals, and daily logs.

• Scheduling Software: Advanced skills in using scheduling software like Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or ASTA PowerProject for developing, tracking, and analyzing project schedules.

• Cost Management Software: Experience with cost estimating and management tools, which may include specialized software or integrated modules within broader PMIS.

• Document Management Systems: Familiarity with systems for organizing and accessing project documents, drawings, and specifications.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Spreadsheet Software: Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel for data analysis, financial modeling, and reporting.

• Reporting Tools: Ability to generate clear and concise project status reports, budget summaries, and schedule updates for various stakeholders.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a traditional CRM role, managing relationships with A/E firms and LAUSD stakeholders requires strong communication and relationship management skills.

• Familiarity with workflow automation tools or features within PMIS to streamline administrative tasks.

• BIM Software (Preferred): Experience or understanding of Building Information Modeling (BIM) software (e.g., Revit, Navisworks) is increasingly becoming a standard expectation for design management, especially in large capital projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific software is not listed, the nature of the role and the client (LAUSD) suggests a need for robust project management, scheduling, and cost control tools. Familiarity with BIM is a strong plus, indicating a forward-thinking approach to design and construction management.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity and Accountability: Upholding ethical standards and taking responsibility for project outcomes, particularly crucial in public sector work.

• Collaboration and Partnership: Fostering strong working relationships with A/E consultants, subcontractors, and LAUSD representatives to achieve shared project goals.

• Excellence and Quality: A commitment to delivering high-quality facilities that meet or exceed client expectations and regulatory requirements.

• Efficiency and Innovation: Continuously seeking ways to optimize processes, manage resources effectively, and adopt new technologies to improve project delivery.

• Safety First: Prioritizing the safety of all personnel on construction sites and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.

Collaboration Style:

• The role demands a highly collaborative approach, acting as a central point of contact and facilitator between diverse groups.

• Expect a culture of open communication, where constructive feedback is exchanged to resolve issues and improve project performance.

• Knowledge sharing is essential, particularly regarding best practices in design management, contract administration, and public procurement.

📝 Enhancement Note: Simplex's success with public agencies like LAUSD likely stems from a culture that values reliability, transparency, and a commitment to public service. The Design Manager must embody these values to build trust and ensure successful long-term partnerships.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating the complex procurement regulations and bureaucratic processes inherent in public sector projects, especially with a large district like LAUSD.

• Managing diverse A/E consultant teams with varying expertise, communication styles, and contractual obligations.

• Balancing competing demands from stakeholders, including budget constraints, schedule pressures, and specific functional or aesthetic requirements.

• Ensuring design compliance with evolving building codes, accessibility standards, and sustainability mandates.

• Mitigating risks associated with unforeseen site conditions, material availability, and labor market fluctuations. Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Gain in-depth expertise in the specific standards, policies, and procedures of the Los Angeles Unified School District.

• Develop advanced skills in public sector contract negotiation and administration.

• Expand knowledge in specialized areas of architectural and engineering design for educational environments.

• Opportunities to lead larger, more complex capital programs and mentor junior project management staff.

• Pursue professional certifications relevant to construction management, project management, or specific engineering/architectural disciplines.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges due to the scale and complexity of LAUSD projects, but also offers substantial growth opportunities for professionals dedicated to public infrastructure development. The ability to adapt to evolving regulations and technologies will be key to long-term success.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to manage a difficult relationship with an A/E consultant. What was the situation, what steps did you take, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on problem-solving, communication, and contract management.)

• "Walk us through your process for developing and managing a project schedule for a major capital project. What tools do you use, and how do you handle schedule deviations?" (Highlight your scheduling expertise and risk mitigation strategies.)

• "How do you ensure that cost estimates are accurate and that projects stay within budget? Provide an example of a cost-saving measure you implemented." (Demonstrate your financial acumen and cost control skills.)

• "What is your approach to ensuring compliance with building codes and accessibility standards in the design of educational facilities?" (Showcase your technical knowledge and commitment to safety and inclusivity.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Simplex Construction Management and our work with LAUSD?" (Research the company's website and recent projects.)

• "How do you align with our company values of integrity, collaboration, and excellence?" (Prepare examples that illustrate these values in your past roles.)

• "How do you approach collaboration with public sector clients like LAUSD, considering their unique needs and processes?" (Emphasize your understanding of public agency dynamics.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: For each project, use a STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) or a similar clear narrative structure.

• Visuals: Use concise slides with key data points, project photos, and relevant diagrams if possible. Avoid overly text-heavy slides.

• Focus on Relevance: Emphasize projects that closely mirror the requirements of this Design Manager role – educational facilities, A/E management, public sector.

• Quantify Results: Be prepared to discuss budget figures, schedule timelines, team sizes, and any measurable improvements you achieved.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate follow-up questions on any aspect of your presented projects, including technical details, contractual clauses, or stakeholder management.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will likely probe your ability to handle the specific challenges of public sector projects, particularly within an educational context. Demonstrating a deep understanding of contract administration, cost control, and effective stakeholder management will be crucial. Your portfolio presentation should clearly showcase your direct experience with managing architectural and engineering services.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Simplex Construction Management careers portal.

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight your experience in facilities design, capital project management, contract administration, cost estimating, and scheduling, with a strong emphasis on your work with educational facilities or similar public agencies. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Select 3-5 key projects that best demonstrate your qualifications. Be ready to discuss them in detail, focusing on your role, challenges, solutions, and quantifiable outcomes, particularly related to A/E services.

• Research Simplex and LAUSD: Understand Simplex Construction Management's mission, values, and project portfolio, especially their work with LAUSD. Familiarize yourself with LAUSD's facilities and capital improvement initiatives.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare for behavioral and technical questions, including case studies related to design management, consultant oversight, and budget/schedule control. Practice articulating your portfolio projects concisely and impactfully.

⚠️ 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.