LAUSD Senior Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: LAUSD Senior Design Manager

Company: Simplex Construction Management, Inc.

Location: Los Angeles County, California, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Construction Management / Design Leadership

Date Posted: 2026-08-14

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage the comprehensive design, planning, and coordination of large-scale capital projects, primarily focusing on educational facilities for the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD).

• Oversee critical project phases including contract administration, meticulous cost estimating, and sophisticated scheduling to ensure project delivery within scope, budget, and timeline.

• Drive strategic direction for facility design, ensuring compliance with all relevant building codes, accessibility standards, and LAUSD-specific requirements.

• Foster strong collaborative relationships with internal teams, external consultants, contractors, and LAUSD stakeholders to achieve project objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Senior Design Manager," the core responsibilities and experience requirements strongly indicate a role focused on the management and coordination of design and construction projects rather than pure architectural or engineering design. The emphasis on contract administration, cost estimating, and scheduling places this role firmly within project and construction management, with a specific focus on the design phase of capital projects. The LAUSD context suggests a complex, public sector environment with stringent requirements.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Direct and oversee the full lifecycle of facilities design for capital projects, from conceptualization and schematic design through construction documentation and bid administration.

• Manage and administer contracts with architectural, engineering, and other design consultants, ensuring adherence to scope, schedule, and budget.

• Develop, review, and approve detailed cost estimates at various project stages, employing advanced estimating techniques and software.

• Create, monitor, and update comprehensive project schedules, integrating design milestones with overall construction timelines and identifying critical path activities.

• Coordinate and facilitate design review meetings with internal stakeholders, LAUSD representatives, and external agencies to ensure alignment and address design challenges.

• Ensure all designs comply with California Building Codes, ADA requirements, Title 24, and LAUSD's specific design standards and policies.

• Conduct site evaluations and feasibility studies to inform design decisions and identify potential project constraints.

• Review and approve design submittals, shop drawings, and Requests for Information (RFIs) to maintain design integrity and resolve construction issues.

• Provide expert guidance and technical support on design-related matters to project managers and construction teams.

• Manage the change order process related to design, ensuring proper documentation and cost/schedule impact assessment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role demands a proactive approach to managing risks associated with design and construction, particularly in a public sector context like LAUSD. Responsibilities will likely involve navigating complex procurement processes and ensuring robust documentation for compliance and audit purposes.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Graduation from a recognized college or university with a bachelor's degree in Architecture or Engineering. A Master's degree in Architecture or Engineering is preferred.

Experience:

• Minimum of 14 years of full-time paid professional experience in managing facilities design, or the planning and coordination of capital projects.

• This experience must encompass overall design, contract administration, cost estimating, and scheduling activities.

• A minimum of 4 years of this experience must be specifically with the design, planning, and construction of educational facilities or similar public agencies. Required Skills:

• Proven expertise in facilities design management and the full project lifecycle for capital construction projects.

• Strong proficiency in contract administration, including negotiation, management, and compliance monitoring.

• Advanced skills in cost estimating for large-scale public projects, including value engineering principles.

• Comprehensive knowledge of project scheduling methodologies and software (e.g., Primavera P6, MS Project) for complex capital programs.

• Demonstrated ability to manage educational facilities planning and construction projects.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, essential for stakeholder engagement and reporting.

• Deep understanding of construction management principles and best practices.

• Familiarity with public agency procurement and project delivery requirements. Preferred Skills:

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

• A valid Professional Engineer license by the State Board for Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors.

• Experience with Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) specific design guidelines and approval processes.

• Proficiency in BIM (Building Information Modeling) software and its application in design coordination.

• Experience in sustainable design practices and LEED certification processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the 14-year experience requirement and the public sector focus, candidates with direct experience in managing design phases for school districts or similar large public institutions will have a significant advantage. The preferred licenses are highly indicative of the technical depth expected.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Detailed case studies showcasing the successful management of the design phase for complex capital projects, preferably in the education or public sector.

• Examples of comprehensive project schedules developed and managed, demonstrating an understanding of critical path analysis and resource allocation.

• Samples of cost estimates prepared for various project stages, highlighting accuracy and methodology.

• Documentation illustrating experience in contract administration, including sample scopes of contract, performance reports, or change order management summaries.

• Evidence of successful stakeholder management and communication strategies employed during the design and planning phases of projects. Process Documentation:

• Demonstrations of established processes for design review and approval, including stakeholder engagement and feedback incorporation.

• Documentation of methodologies used for risk assessment and mitigation specifically related to design and pre-construction phases.

• Examples of workflow management for managing architectural and engineering consultants, including performance tracking and quality control measures.

• Evidence of implementing and managing project controls for cost and schedule during the design and planning stages.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, the portfolio should heavily emphasize the management of design processes, not just the design itself. Candidates should be prepared to present how they have structured, controlled, and driven design outcomes for large, public-sector capital projects, highlighting their ability to manage complex interdependencies.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $191,000 - $214,000 per year.

This range is a good faith estimate. Actual compensation will be determined by individual qualifications, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Benefits:

• Full-Time Employment: This is a direct-hire, full-time position.

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Retirement Plan: Access to a retirement savings plan (e.g., 401k) with potential company matching.

• Paid Time Off: Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for continued learning and professional growth.

• Perks: Potential for performance bonuses or other company-specific incentives.

Working Hours: Standard full-time work hours are expected to be approximately 40 hours per week. This is an in-person position, requiring consistent presence at the designated Los Angeles location. Flexibility may be required to attend critical meetings or address urgent project needs outside of standard hours, typical for senior project management roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is competitive for senior-level project management roles in the high-cost-of-living Los Angeles area, particularly for positions with significant public sector responsibility. The absence of relocation funds or per diem reinforces the requirement for local candidates.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction Management / General Contracting, specializing in public sector projects, particularly educational facilities. Simplex Construction Management, Inc. operates within the highly regulated and competitive construction industry, focusing on delivering complex infrastructure and building projects.

Company Size: Simplex Construction Management, Inc. is likely a mid-sized to large firm, given the specialized nature of their work and the scale of projects they manage, such as those for LAUSD. This size typically allows for structured processes while maintaining a degree of agility.

Founded: Founded in 1994, Simplex Construction Management, Inc. has a long-standing history of delivering construction projects, implying stability and deep industry experience.

Team Structure:

• The Senior Design Manager will likely be part of a larger Project Management or Construction Management department.

• This role will report to a Director of Project Management or a similar senior leadership position within Simplex.

• Collaboration will be extensive with Project Managers, Superintendents, Estimators, Schedulers, Contract Administrators, and external design consultants (Architects, Engineers).

• The team structure emphasizes a hierarchical yet collaborative approach, common in large construction firms managing public projects. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Emphasizing the use of project data (schedule, cost, performance metrics) to inform strategic decisions.

• Process Optimization: Continuous focus on refining design, procurement, and construction processes to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and mitigate risks.

• Quality Assurance & Control: Implementing rigorous checks and balances throughout the project lifecycle to ensure high-quality deliverables and compliance.

• Stakeholder Alignment: Proactive engagement and communication strategies to ensure all parties are informed and aligned on project goals and progress.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's founding date and specialization in public sector projects suggest a culture that values experience, reliability, and adherence to established processes. The focus on LAUSD projects indicates a deep understanding of public procurement and compliance requirements.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior leadership position within the design and project management function. It requires extensive experience and the ability to independently manage highly complex, high-value capital projects. The scope of responsibility extends beyond individual project tasks to strategic oversight of the design phase for significant public sector investments.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Design Manager will report to a Director-level executive within Simplex Construction Management, Inc., likely overseeing a portfolio of projects or a specific functional area like design management. They will, in turn, supervise or provide direct guidance to project teams, consultants, and potentially junior design coordinators.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct and significant impact on the success of LAUSD's capital improvement programs. Effective design management ensures that projects are conceived and documented efficiently, leading to controlled costs, adherence to schedules, and the delivery of safe, functional, and high-quality educational facilities. The decisions made by the Senior Design Manager can influence long-term operational efficiency and the overall value of public investments.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to advance to Director of Design, Director of Project Management, or Vice President roles within Simplex, overseeing larger programs or multiple departments.

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas like sustainable design, advanced construction technologies, or public-private partnerships.

• Industry Influence: Opportunities to contribute to industry best practices, participate in professional organizations, and mentor emerging talent in construction management and design.

• Broader Project Scope: Transition to managing even larger or more diverse types of public infrastructure projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior" in the title, coupled with the extensive experience requirement and salary range, clearly positions this as a high-impact, strategic role with significant growth potential within a well-established construction management firm.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role requiring the employee to be physically present at Simplex Construction Management, Inc.'s offices in Los Angeles, CA. The work environment is expected to be a professional office setting.

Office Location(s): Los Angeles, CA. Specific office address will be provided upon hiring. The location is critical as no relocation funds or per diem are offered, indicating a need for local candidates.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The workspace will support collaboration with project teams, including project managers, schedulers, estimators, and administrative staff. Regular interaction with external consultants will also be a key part of the daily routine.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to industry-standard project management software, design coordination tools, communication platforms, and office resources will be provided.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for direct interaction with senior leadership, project teams, and potentially client representatives (LAUSD) will be frequent, fostering a dynamic and engaged work environment.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is full-time, approximately 40 hours per week. Given the nature of capital project management, occasional flexibility may be required to attend critical project meetings, respond to urgent issues, or meet project deadlines, particularly during peak phases of design or construction.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on on-site work and the absence of relocation support strongly suggest a need for candidates already residing in Southern California or willing to relocate at their own expense. The environment will likely be fast-paced, reflecting the demands of managing large public works projects.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or a hiring manager will review applications and resumes to assess basic qualifications and experience alignment.

• Technical Interview: Candidates will likely undergo one or more interviews with senior management (e.g., Director of Project Management, VP of Operations) to discuss their experience in detail, focusing on their approach to design management, contract administration, cost control, and scheduling. Expect in-depth questions about past projects and problem-solving scenarios.

• Portfolio Review: A critical component will be the presentation and discussion of the candidate's portfolio, showcasing specific project examples that demonstrate their capabilities in managing design processes for large capital projects.

• Cultural Fit/Behavioral Interview: An assessment of how the candidate aligns with Simplex Construction Management's values and working style, and their ability to collaborate effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders.

• Final Interview: Potentially with executive leadership for final approval.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio by project type or responsibility area (e.g., Design Management, Contract Administration, Scheduling).

• Content: For each project, clearly articulate the scope, your specific role and responsibilities, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented, and the quantifiable outcomes (e.g., cost savings, schedule adherence, successful design approvals).

• Focus: Emphasize your strategic approach to managing the design phase, your ability to coordinate complex interdependencies, and your experience with public sector requirements.

• Presentation: Be prepared to walk through key documents, schedules, or cost estimates. Use visuals effectively to illustrate complex information. Clearly articulate the "why" and "how" behind your decisions.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Be ready to discuss how you would handle hypothetical situations, such as managing a significant design delay, resolving a conflict between consultants, or presenting a budget overrun to a client.

• Technical Knowledge: Brush up on current California building codes, ADA standards, and common practices in educational facility design and construction.

• LAUSD Context: Research recent LAUSD capital projects, their initiatives, and any publicly available design standards or challenges. Understanding their specific needs and operational environment will be crucial.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely be rigorous, given the seniority and complexity of the role. A strong emphasis will be placed on demonstrating practical experience and a strategic, problem-solving mindset through portfolio examples and scenario-based discussions.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency with platforms like Procore, Autodesk Construction Cloud (which includes BIM 360), or similar integrated construction management suites.

• Scheduling Software: Advanced skills in Primavera P6 and/or Microsoft Project are essential for developing and managing complex capital project schedules.

• Cost Estimating Software: Familiarity with software like CostX, Sage Estimating, or similar tools used for detailed cost breakdowns and analysis.

• BIM Software: Experience with Autodesk Revit, Navisworks, or other BIM platforms for design coordination, clash detection, and visualization.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to analyze project data from various sources (scheduling, cost, performance reports) to identify trends, risks, and opportunities.

• Reporting Tools: Proficiency in creating clear, concise reports for executive leadership and stakeholders, likely using Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, or dedicated business intelligence tools.

• Dashboarding Tools: Experience with creating or interpreting project dashboards for key performance indicators (KPIs).

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how customer relationship management principles apply to stakeholder management (clients, consultants, agencies) is key.

• Familiarity with workflow automation within project management software to streamline processes like RFI submissions, submittal reviews, and change order tracking.

• Integration Tools: Understanding how different software systems (e.g., estimating, scheduling, accounting) integrate to provide a holistic project view.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack reflects the sophisticated needs of managing large-scale public construction projects. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with these specific types of tools and how they leverage technology for efficient project delivery and robust reporting.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all dealings with clients, consultants, and team members, particularly crucial in public sector work.

• Excellence in Execution: A commitment to delivering high-quality projects on time and within budget, driven by meticulous planning and execution.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive and collaborative environment where diverse expertise is valued and shared to achieve common goals.

• Accountability: Taking ownership of responsibilities, decisions, and project outcomes, ensuring transparency and clear lines of responsibility.

• Continuous Improvement: A proactive approach to identifying opportunities for process enhancement, learning from experience, and adopting best practices in construction management.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role necessitates seamless collaboration between design, estimating, scheduling, and field operations teams to ensure a unified project approach.

• Proactive Communication: Maintaining open and consistent communication channels with all stakeholders, including LAUSD representatives, to manage expectations and resolve issues promptly.

• Constructive Feedback Culture: Encouraging an environment where feedback is shared constructively among team members and consultants to drive continuous improvement in design and project delivery.

• Partnership Approach: Working collaboratively with external consultants and contractors as partners to achieve shared project success, rather than purely transactional relationships.

📝 Enhancement Note: Simplex's long tenure and focus on public projects suggest a culture that values reliability, technical expertise, and strong relationships. The Senior Design Manager will be expected to embody these values and promote them within their sphere of influence.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Public Sector Bureaucracy: LAUSD, as a large public entity, will have complex approval processes, procurement rules, and stakeholder management requirements that can challenge project timelines and flexibility.

• Managing Design Scope Creep: Effectively controlling and managing changes to the design scope to prevent budget overruns and schedule delays, especially in long-term capital projects.

• Balancing Cost, Schedule, and Quality: The perpetual challenge of optimizing these three critical project constraints, particularly when faced with budget limitations or evolving project needs.

• Coordination of Multiple Stakeholders: Ensuring alignment and effective communication among a diverse group of stakeholders, including school administrators, community members, government agencies, architects, engineers, and contractors.

• Keeping Pace with Evolving Standards: Staying current with advancements in building codes, technology, and sustainable design practices relevant to educational facilities.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Project Management Techniques: Opportunities to deepen knowledge in areas like Integrated Project Delivery (IPD), lean construction principles, or advanced risk management.

• Public Sector Procurement Mastery: Gaining specialized expertise in navigating and optimizing public procurement and contract management processes for large-scale government projects.

• Leadership Development Programs: Access to internal or external training focused on strategic leadership, team management, and executive communication.

• Industry Conferences & Certifications: Opportunities to attend industry events (e.g., AGC, AIA, CMAA conferences) and pursue advanced certifications relevant to construction and design management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges inherent in this role are significant but also provide fertile ground for professional growth. Successfully navigating these complexities will significantly enhance a candidate's expertise and marketability in the construction management field.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you managed a capital project where the design phase encountered significant challenges. How did you identify the issues, what steps did you take to mitigate them, and what was the ultimate outcome?" (Focus on problem-solving, risk management, and stakeholder communication).

• "How do you ensure that design consultants are aligned with project budget and schedule targets from the outset? What processes do you implement for contract administration and performance monitoring?" (Focus on contract management, cost control, and proactive oversight).

• "Walk us through your process for developing and managing a complex project schedule for a large educational facility. What tools do you use, and how do you ensure critical path adherence?" (Focus on scheduling expertise and project controls). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Simplex Construction Management, Inc., and why are you interested in working with us, specifically on LAUSD projects?" (Demonstrate research and genuine interest).

• "How do you foster a collaborative environment among diverse project teams and external stakeholders, especially when dealing with public agencies?" (Assess collaboration style and stakeholder management skills).

• "How do you measure the success of the design phase of a project, beyond just budget and schedule adherence?" (Focus on quality, functionality, and long-term value). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select Key Projects: Choose 2-3 projects that best showcase your experience in managing design for large-scale educational or public facilities.

• Quantify Achievements: For each project, clearly articulate your role, responsibilities, challenges, solutions, and measurable outcomes (e.g., "Delivered design phase 10% under budget," "Reduced RFI response time by 15% through improved process").

• Visual Aids: Use simplified diagrams, schedule excerpts, or cost breakdowns to illustrate your points effectively. Avoid overwhelming detail.

• Storytelling: Frame your experience as a narrative, highlighting your strategic thinking, problem-solving abilities, and leadership. Be prepared to answer detailed questions about your involvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to provide specific, STAR method-based examples for behavioral questions and be ready to critically discuss their project management methodologies and how they align with the demands of public sector construction.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Design Manager position:

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

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight experience in facilities design management, capital project coordination, contract administration, cost estimating, and scheduling, with a strong emphasis on educational or public agency projects. Quantify achievements wherever possible.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Organize and curate your portfolio to showcase specific examples of successful design management for large capital projects. Ensure it clearly articulates your responsibilities, methodologies, and outcomes.

• Research Simplex & LAUSD: Familiarize yourself with Simplex Construction Management's project portfolio, company values, and recent news. Research current LAUSD capital improvement plans, design standards, and any known industry challenges or initiatives relevant to this role.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare to articulate your experience using the STAR method and anticipate questions related to project management, design oversight, stakeholder engagement, and problem-solving in a public sector context. Practice presenting your portfolio.

⚠️ 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.