LEX Delivery Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: LEX Delivery Design Manager

Company: HDR

Location: Lexington, Kentucky, United States

Job Type: Full-time, Regular

Category: Operations - Design & Engineering Management (within a PMO context)

Date Posted: May 27, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage design and engineering activities within a Program Management Office (PMO) for a Capital Improvement Program (CIP).

• Oversee the transition of projects from design and estimating phases through to construction, ensuring alignment with owner expectations and requirements.

• Collaborate with Program Managers, Project Managers, design consultants, and contractors to ensure successful project delivery.

• Drive technical excellence and strategic planning in infrastructure development, contributing to the future of mobility and community connectivity.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within a Program Management Office (PMO) context, emphasizing the strategic oversight of design and engineering functions within a larger capital improvement initiative. The 'LEX' in the title likely refers to the Lexington area, indicating a specific geographic focus for this program. The operations aspect is deeply embedded in process management, stakeholder coordination, and ensuring efficient delivery of complex projects.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Work closely with the Program Manager, owner Project Managers, other PMO team members, third-party design consultants, and contractors to deliver various projects within a Capital Improvement Program (CIP).

• Support the development of a CIP, including the identification, timing, and delivery method of various projects.

• Assist in the development of project costs and schedules, ensuring fiscal responsibility and timely execution.

• Contribute to the risk assessment process during the development of the CIP, identifying potential challenges and mitigation strategies.

• Develop project-specific technical documents and design criteria, ensuring clarity and adherence to standards.

• Develop and implement robust design review processes and procedures to ensure quality and compliance.

• Collaborate with the owner and third-party design consultants to develop project scope and fees, ensuring alignment and value.

• Coordinate and oversee the design of multiple projects concurrently within a CIP, managing interdependencies.

• Act as a key liaison between the owner and third-party design consultants, facilitating effective communication and problem-solving.

• Lead and integrate multidisciplinary teams of Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) to leverage diverse expertise.

• Coordinate plan reviews by PMO Subject Matter Experts (SMEs), ensuring comprehensive technical evaluation.

• Work with PMO Document Control to implement workflows for timely design submittal reviews, optimizing project progression.

• Lead design and engineering meetings, including comment resolution, to drive projects forward efficiently.

• Address and resolve technical design review comments and issues through independent decision-making and strategic thinking.

• Manage SMEs to maintain PMO scope, schedule, and budget adherence, ensuring operational efficiency.

• Oversee and implement design and engineering quality control procedures to uphold high standards.

• Coordinate responses to any design issues or questions that arise during construction, ensuring continuity and minimizing disruption.

• Support the review and analysis of change orders, assessing impact and recommending appropriate actions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong emphasis on process management, cross-functional collaboration, and strategic oversight. The role requires not just technical design knowledge but also the ability to manage complex project lifecycles, coordinate diverse stakeholders, and ensure operational efficiency within a larger program. The focus on CIP development, risk assessment, and change order analysis underscores the strategic and operational importance of this position.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering.

Experience:

• A minimum of 10 years of related experience in engineering design and project execution.

Required Skills:

• Engineering Design Principles: Comprehensive understanding of engineering design principles applicable to infrastructure projects.

• Project Management: Proven ability to manage project timelines, budgets, resources, and deliverables from initiation to closure.

• Design Review Processes: Expertise in developing, implementing, and managing design review cycles and quality control procedures.

• Technical Documentation: Skill in creating and managing technical documents, design criteria, and project specifications.

• Stakeholder Management: Ability to effectively liaise and collaborate with owners, consultants, contractors, and internal SMEs.

• MS Office Suite: Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

• MS Project: Demonstrated experience with Microsoft Project for project scheduling and resource planning.

• Leadership Skills: Strong capability to lead and motivate multidisciplinary teams and drive project objectives.

• Strategic Planning: Ability to contribute to strategic planning for Capital Improvement Programs.

Preferred Skills:

• Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Experience: Direct experience managing projects within a large-scale CIP.

• Risk Assessment: Experience in identifying, analyzing, and mitigating project risks.

• Cost Estimation & Budget Management: Proficiency in developing and managing project budgets and cost controls.

• Subcontractor Management: Experience overseeing and coordinating the work of third-party subcontractors.

• Business Development Support: Ability to contribute to business development efforts related to design and program management services.

• Access Database Experience: Familiarity with Microsoft Access for data management and reporting.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a PE license is critical and signals a need for a seasoned professional with established expertise and accountability. The combination of extensive related experience and specific project management experience reinforces the senior nature of this role, emphasizing the need for both technical depth and managerial acumen within an operations framework.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Management Case Studies: Showcase successful management of complex engineering projects, detailing scope, budget, schedule, and stakeholder coordination. Highlight process adherence and key decision points.

• Design Management Examples: Provide examples of design review processes implemented, challenges overcome, and quality control measures applied. Demonstrate how design criteria were developed and met.

• Process Optimization Initiatives: Include instances where you identified and improved design or project delivery processes, detailing the methodology and quantifiable outcomes (e.g., reduced cycle times, cost savings, improved quality).

• System Implementation/Management: If applicable, present examples of managing or implementing project management or design-related systems, showcasing your understanding of their operational impact.

• Risk Mitigation Strategies: Showcase examples of proactive risk identification and management strategies employed in past projects, detailing the process and its effectiveness.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Demonstrate experience in designing, documenting, and optimizing workflows for design reviews, submittal processes, and interdisciplinary coordination.

• Implementation & Automation: Provide evidence of implementing new processes or leveraging technology to automate aspects of design management or project delivery.

• Measurement & Analysis: Show how you have established metrics for tracking design progress, quality, and adherence to schedule/budget, and how you use this data for continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role focused on design management within a PMO, a portfolio should strongly emphasize process-oriented achievements. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate how they've managed complex workflows, improved operational efficiency in design delivery, and utilized systems to support these goals. Quantifiable results related to cost, schedule, and quality are paramount.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Based on industry benchmarks for a Design Management role with 10+ years of experience, including a PE license, in Lexington, Kentucky, the estimated annual salary range is $120,000 - $170,000. This estimate considers the complexity of managing multiple projects within a CIP, the required technical expertise, and the strategic importance of the role within a PMO.

Benefits:

• Employee Ownership: As an employee-owner at HDR, you will have a stake in the company's success, fostering a culture of shared responsibility and reward.

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Includes medical, dental, and vision insurance plans designed to support employee well-being.

• Retirement Savings Plan: A robust 401(k) plan with company matching contributions to support long-term financial security.

• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation, sick leave, and holiday policies to ensure work-life balance.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for continuing education, training, certifications, and support for obtaining and maintaining professional licenses (PE).

• Life and Disability Insurance: Provides financial protection for employees and their families.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services for personal and work-related challenges.

• Wellness Programs: Initiatives aimed at promoting employee health and well-being.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are typically 40 hours per week.

• Flexibility may be available, but the on-site nature of the role and the demands of managing active construction projects may require occasional extended hours or weekend work to meet critical deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on national averages for similar roles and adjusted for the Lexington, KY location, considering the significant experience and PE license requirements. HDR's employee-ownership model is a key benefit that significantly impacts company culture and employee engagement, which should be highlighted.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering, Architecture, Consulting, and Construction Services. HDR operates broadly within the infrastructure sector, focusing on transportation, water, energy, and government projects.

Company Size: HDR is a large, global company, typically classified as having over 10,000 employees. This size indicates a robust organizational structure, extensive resources, and a wide network of professionals.

Founded: HDR was founded in 1917. This long history suggests stability, extensive experience, and a deep-rooted understanding of the industry.

Team Structure:

• PMO Integration: The role is embedded within a Program Management Office (PMO), implying a structured approach to managing large-scale initiatives. The team likely consists of Program Managers, Project Managers, Schedulers, Cost Estimators, Document Controllers, and various Subject Matter Experts (SMEs).

• Reporting Structure: The Delivery Design Manager will likely report to a Program Manager or a Director of Design within the PMO, overseeing a team of design SMEs and coordinating with external consultants.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Expect extensive collaboration with internal HDR disciplines (transportation planning, structural engineering, civil engineering, environmental, etc.) and external stakeholders including government agencies, contractors, and community representatives.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Emphasis on using data from project cost, schedule, and risk assessments to inform strategic decisions.

• Process Standardization: Implementation and adherence to standardized PMO processes for design reviews, document control, and project execution.

• Collaborative Problem-Solving: A culture that encourages multidisciplinary teams to work together to solve complex technical and logistical challenges.

• Employee Ownership: A core value that drives engagement, accountability, and a commitment to client success and company growth.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: HDR's status as a large, employee-owned firm significantly influences its culture. The "employee-owners" aspect suggests a high degree of engagement, a focus on long-term success, and a collaborative environment where individual contributions are valued and directly impact the company's performance. The depth of experience since 1917 points to a stable, reputable organization with a strong track record.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is at a senior management level, specifically focused on the operational aspects of design delivery within a large program. It requires a blend of technical engineering expertise, robust project management skills, and leadership in process execution. It sits at the intersection of technical design and program operations.

Reporting Structure: The Delivery Design Manager reports to a Program Manager or a senior leadership role within the PMO. They, in turn, will lead and direct a team of design SMEs and coordinate with external design consultants and construction teams. This structure emphasizes a command-and-control element within a collaborative framework.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct impact on the successful and efficient delivery of capital improvement projects. By overseeing design quality, schedule adherence, and budget management, the Delivery Design Manager influences project outcomes, client satisfaction, and ultimately, the realization of community infrastructure goals. Effective operations management here directly translates to cost savings, reduced project risks, and timely completion of vital public works.

Growth Opportunities:

• Program Leadership: Progression to Program Manager or Director roles within the PMO, overseeing larger or more complex capital programs.

• Discipline Leadership: Moving into leadership roles within specific HDR technical disciplines, leveraging design management experience.

• Business Development: Contributing to and eventually leading business development efforts for HDR's program and design management services.

• Specialization: Developing expertise in specific types of infrastructure (e.g., transportation, water systems) or project delivery methods.

• Executive Management: Potential to move into broader executive management roles within HDR, leveraging a deep understanding of project delivery and client relations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path for this role is strongly tied to expanding program oversight and leadership. The employee-ownership model may also present opportunities for involvement in company governance or strategic initiatives beyond project delivery. The PE license requirement is a key enabler for many of these advanced career trajectories.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role, expected to be based out of a regional HDR office or a dedicated PMO office established for the specific Capital Improvement Program in Lexington, Kentucky. It will likely involve a mix of office-based work and potential site visits.

Office Location(s): The primary location is Lexington, Kentucky. HDR has offices across the United States and globally, but this role is tied to the specific program's operational hub.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Workspace: The PMO environment typically fosters collaboration, with shared spaces for team meetings, working sessions, and cross-functional discussions.

• Tools & Technology: Access to standard office technology, project management software (MS Project, potentially others), document management systems, and communication platforms.

• Team Interaction: Frequent interaction with program management staff, design consultants, construction teams, and potentially client representatives. This is a highly interactive role.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is full-time, likely 40 hours per week.

• Given the nature of managing construction projects and capital programs, there may be a need for flexibility, including occasional extended hours or weekend work to meet critical deadlines, attend urgent meetings, or address unforeseen issues.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "on-site" designation is critical. This role requires physical presence for direct oversight, team collaboration, and engagement with stakeholders, which is typical for program management roles overseeing physical infrastructure development.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or a recruiter will review applications to ensure basic qualifications (degree, license, years of experience) are met.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the hiring manager (likely a Program Director or Senior PM) focusing on experience, leadership style, and technical expertise related to design management and PMO operations. Be prepared to discuss specific projects and challenges.

• Team/SME Interviews: Interviews with key team members, including other Project Managers, senior engineers, or subject matter experts. These will assess technical depth, collaborative approach, and problem-solving skills.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where candidates present their portfolio. This is crucial for demonstrating practical experience in design management, process optimization, and project delivery. Expect to walk through case studies.

• Final Interview (Optional): May involve senior leadership within HDR or the PMO to assess cultural fit and strategic alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure for Impact: Organize your portfolio by project type or by functional area (e.g., Design Oversight, Process Improvement, Risk Management).

• Quantify Achievements: For each case study, clearly articulate the project's scope, your role, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented, and the quantifiable results (e.g., % cost savings, schedule improvements, quality metrics).

• Highlight Process: Emphasize the processes and methodologies you used for design review, stakeholder coordination, risk assessment, and quality control. Show how you achieved results.

• Visual Aids: Use diagrams, charts, and concise text to present information effectively. For design management, visual examples of project scopes or challenges can be impactful.

• Tailor to HDR: Understand HDR's focus on employee ownership, sustainability, and community impact, and subtly weave these themes into your presentation where relevant.

Challenge Preparation:

• Process Design Scenario: You might be asked to outline a process for reviewing complex design submittals for a major infrastructure project or how you would manage design changes on a fast-tracked project.

• Stakeholder Conflict Resolution: Be prepared to discuss how you would handle disagreements between a client, a design consultant, and a contractor regarding design specifications or construction issues.

• Risk Identification and Mitigation: You could be presented with a project scenario and asked to identify potential design or construction risks and propose mitigation strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio review is a critical component for this role. Candidates should prepare detailed case studies that not only showcase their technical and project management skills but also their ability to manage processes, drive efficiency, and deliver tangible results within a complex program environment.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Microsoft Project: Essential for project scheduling, resource allocation, and timeline management. Proficiency is explicitly required.

• MS Office Suite: Comprehensive use of Word for documentation, Excel for data analysis and reporting, and PowerPoint for presentations.

• Document Management Systems: Experience with systems for storing, tracking, and managing project documentation, including design submittals, RFIs, and change orders (e.g., Procore, Aconex, or similar enterprise-level platforms).

• Collaboration Platforms: Familiarity with tools for team communication and collaboration (e.g., Microsoft Teams, Slack, SharePoint).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Excel for Data Analysis: Advanced Excel skills for analyzing project data, cost reports, and schedule variances.

• Reporting Tools: Experience generating reports on project status, design progress, risk assessments, and budget adherence, potentially using integrated PMO software or custom solutions.

• Dashboarding (Basic): Ability to interpret and potentially contribute to project dashboards that visualize key performance indicators (KPIs).

CRM & Automation:

• While not a primary CRM role, understanding how project data flows from initial proposals through project execution might involve some exposure to client management systems or project intake processes.

• Workflow Automation (Conceptual): Understanding how workflows can be automated or streamlined within design review and project management processes, even if not directly implementing automation tools.

• Integration Concepts: Awareness of how different project management and design tools might integrate to facilitate data sharing and process efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis is on robust project management and documentation tools. While specific CRM or advanced automation tool experience isn't highlighted, a candidate's understanding of how these systems support efficient operations and data flow within a project lifecycle is beneficial.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Employee Ownership: A core value that instills a sense of personal responsibility, commitment to quality, and dedication to the company's long-term success. Operations professionals are expected to act as owners, making decisions that benefit the program and the firm.

• Integrity: Upholding ethical standards in all dealings, from client interactions to internal processes and financial management. This is critical in public infrastructure projects.

• Collaboration: A strong emphasis on teamwork, open communication, and shared problem-solving across disciplines and with external partners. Operations roles are inherently collaborative.

• Innovation: Encouraging new ideas, efficient methods, and technological advancements to improve project delivery, design processes, and operational outcomes.

• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and meeting client needs, delivering exceptional service, and building long-term relationships based on trust and performance.

Collaboration Style:

• Integrated Teams: HDR fosters an integrated approach where diverse teams work closely together, breaking down traditional silos. This is particularly true within PMOs.

• Open Communication: Encourages direct and transparent communication, with a focus on constructive feedback and active listening.

• Process-Oriented: Collaboration often revolves around defined processes for design review, issue resolution, and decision-making, ensuring efficiency and accountability.

• Knowledge Sharing: A culture that values sharing expertise and lessons learned across projects and teams to foster continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The employee-ownership model is a defining characteristic of HDR's culture. Operations professionals in this environment are expected to demonstrate a high level of accountability, proactive engagement, and a commitment to the collective success of the firm and its projects.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Multiple Stakeholders: Balancing the needs and expectations of diverse stakeholders (owner, consultants, contractors, public) on complex infrastructure projects.

• Navigating Project Changes: Effectively managing scope, schedule, and budget changes that are common in large capital programs, requiring strong change control processes.

• Ensuring Design Quality & Compliance: Maintaining high standards for design across multiple projects and consultants, while also ensuring adherence to regulatory requirements and constructability.

• Integrating Diverse Teams: Leading and coordinating multidisciplinary teams, including internal SMEs and external consultants, who may have different working styles and priorities.

• Staying Ahead of Technology: Keeping pace with evolving design technologies, project management software, and construction methods to ensure efficient and modern delivery.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Program Management: Opportunities to take on larger, more complex programs and develop advanced program management expertise.

• Technical Specialization: Deepen knowledge in specific areas of infrastructure engineering or project delivery methods through specialized training and project assignments.

• Leadership Development: Access to HDR's leadership development programs, focusing on strategic thinking, team management, and executive presence.

• Industry Certifications: Support for obtaining and maintaining advanced certifications (e.g., PMP, CCM, LEED) relevant to infrastructure project management.

• Mentorship: Opportunities to be mentored by senior leaders within HDR and to mentor junior staff, fostering a continuous learning environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents significant challenges related to complex project environments and stakeholder dynamics, which are excellent opportunities for professional growth and skill development within the operations and project management sphere.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you managed a complex design review process for a major infrastructure project. What were the key steps, challenges, and outcomes?" (Focus on process, collaboration, and results.)

• "How do you ensure alignment between project scope, budget, and schedule when multiple design consultants are involved?" (Highlight your understanding of trade-offs and control mechanisms.)

• "Walk me through your approach to identifying and mitigating risks associated with design and construction in a large capital program." (Emphasize proactive strategies and process.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about HDR's employee-ownership model and how do you see it influencing your work as a Delivery Design Manager?" (Connect your values to employee ownership and accountability.)

• "How have you fostered a collaborative environment on past projects, especially with diverse teams and external partners?" (Provide specific examples of your collaborative style.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Frame your portfolio as a narrative of successful project delivery, highlighting your role in overcoming challenges and achieving objectives.

• Process Focus: Clearly articulate the processes you used for design management, quality control, and stakeholder coordination. Use flowcharts or diagrams if helpful.

• Quantifiable Impact: For each case study, present concrete data on budget adherence, schedule performance, quality improvements, or cost savings.

• Conciseness: Be prepared to present key information efficiently, allowing time for Q&A and deeper dives into specific projects. Focus on the most relevant examples.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should heavily emphasize demonstrating a strong understanding of process management, stakeholder coordination, and quantifiable results within a project delivery context. The portfolio presentation is a key opportunity to showcase this practical expertise.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the HDR careers portal (link provided).

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your PE license, 10+ years of engineering experience, and 5+ years of project management experience. Use keywords from the job description such as "Design Management," "Capital Improvement Program," "PMO," "Risk Assessment," "MS Project," and "Stakeholder Management." Quantify your achievements with specific metrics wherever possible.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate 3-5 strong case studies that showcase your experience in design management, process optimization, and successful project delivery within large programs. Focus on demonstrating your ability to manage scope, schedule, budget, and quality.

• Research HDR: Understand HDR's mission, values (especially employee ownership), recent projects, and its impact in the transportation and infrastructure sectors. Be ready to articulate why you are a good cultural fit.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare answers to common interview questions, particularly those related to leadership, problem-solving, process management, and stakeholder collaboration. Rehearse your portfolio presentation to ensure clarity and impact.

⚠️ 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.