Program Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Program Design Manager

Company: Faith Technologies

Location: Menasha, WI, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Operations Management / Program Design

Date Posted: June 23, 2026

Experience Level: 8-12+ Years (depending on education)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the end-to-end design and development of complex, multi-disciplinary programs from initial concept through engineering completion and successful handover to execution teams.

• Serve as the primary client-facing design lead, fostering strong customer relationships and ensuring clear communication of technical strategies and design solutions.

• Drive decision-making processes, manage program schedules, and ensure alignment across internal engineering, manufacturing, procurement, logistics, and construction departments.

• Spearhead the development and implementation of standardized design strategies and product evolution through continuous improvement and the leveraging of lessons learned from previous projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a critical bridge between client needs and technical execution within a company that operates across construction, engineering, manufacturing, and renewable energy sectors. The emphasis on "Engineered-to-Order" (ETO) product design, "Design-Build," "Mission Critical," and "integrated project delivery models" indicates a need for a candidate with deep expertise in complex project lifecycles and cross-functional team leadership within an operational context. This is not a pure R&D role but one focused on translating requirements into manufacturable and constructible solutions.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead cross-functional teams, including engineering, BIM, and operations, from the initial program pursuit phase through design completion and transition to project execution.

• Act as the primary design-phase stakeholder, engaging directly with clients, consultants, and internal teams to drive design schedules, coordinate deliverables, and facilitate timely decision-making.

• Oversee the development of comprehensive design solutions, translating initial concepts into detailed engineering documentation and technical specifications.

• Partner closely with Estimating, Procurement, and Engineering departments to evaluate cost impacts, explore design alternatives, and identify value engineering opportunities for program optimization.

• Develop and manage team budgets and cost estimates, ensuring financial viability and alignment with program objectives.

• Proactively track design progress, manage design changes, and identify/mitigate risks throughout the entire program lifecycle.

• Create and maintain Program Requirements Documentation, establishing a single source of truth that consolidates all program/product design requirements.

• Ensure seamless alignment between design intent, manufacturing capabilities, constructability, and adherence to all relevant codes, specifications, and customer requirements.

• Facilitate a smooth and efficient transition from the design phase into program execution, ensuring all stakeholders are aligned and prepared.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong focus on process management, stakeholder alignment, and the tangible output of design documentation. The requirement to develop Program Requirements Documentation as a "single Source-of-Truth" underscores the importance of meticulous record-keeping and clear communication protocols, which are foundational to effective operations management.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma or GED equivalent; OR

• Associate's Degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field; OR

• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field. Experience:

• Minimum of 8+ years of experience in engineering, preconstruction, or general/MEP contracting, with a Bachelor's degree.

• Minimum of 10+ years of experience in engineering, preconstruction, or general/MEP contracting, with an Associate's degree.

• Minimum of 12+ years of experience in engineering, preconstruction, or general/MEP contracting, with a High School Diploma or GED.

• Demonstrated experience managing multidisciplinary projects from initial concept through successful execution.

• Proven track record of leading client-facing meetings, design reviews, and cross-functional project teams. Required Skills:

• Expertise in Engineered-to-Order (ETO) product design principles and implementation.

• Strong knowledge of Design-Build, Mission Critical, and integrated project delivery models.

• Proficiency in managing project schedules, coordinating diverse stakeholders, and driving design decisions to timely completion.

• Exceptional client-facing communication and relationship management skills.

• Ability to lead and motivate cross-functional project teams towards common goals.

• Solid understanding of construction, engineering, and manufacturing processes. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with Building Information Modeling (BIM) processes and tools.

• Proficiency in value engineering techniques and cost-benefit analysis.

• Experience in developing and managing team budgets and cost estimates.

• Familiarity with renewable energy sector projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The tiered experience requirements based on education level suggest flexibility in the hiring process, prioritizing practical experience and demonstrated capability. The emphasis on ETO, Design-Build, and Mission Critical projects points towards a need for candidates familiar with complex, custom-engineered solutions rather than standardized product offerings.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Detailed case studies showcasing the management of complex, multidisciplinary programs from concept to execution, highlighting challenges overcome and successful outcomes.

• Examples of Program Requirements Documentation, demonstrating the ability to establish a clear "Source-of-Truth" consolidating all project requirements.

• Documentation or descriptions of processes used for leading design reviews, coordination meetings, and planning workshops with diverse stakeholders.

• Evidence of experience in driving design solutions, managing schedules, and facilitating critical design decisions within project lifecycles.

• Demonstrations of how lessons learned and reusable design strategies were leveraged for standardization and product evolution across multiple programs. Process Documentation:

• Workflow examples illustrating the process of leading cross-functional teams from program pursuit through design completion and transition to execution.

• Samples of client-facing communication strategies used to manage design-phase stakeholders and drive timely decisions.

• Documentation outlining risk identification and mitigation strategies employed during the design phase of complex programs.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates for this role should prepare a portfolio that substantiates their experience in managing complex programs, emphasizing their ability to document requirements, lead cross-functional teams, and drive design decisions. The portfolio should clearly articulate process methodologies and demonstrate tangible results, particularly in ETO and Design-Build environments.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

The estimated salary range for this position in Menasha, WI, for an individual with 8-12+ years of experience in a Program Design Manager role within the construction, engineering, or manufacturing sectors, typically falls between $100,000 and $140,000 annually. This range can vary based on the candidate's specific experience, educational background, and the precise scope of responsibilities within Faith Technologies.

Benefits:

• Flexible and Robust Benefits Package, including health, dental, and vision insurance.

• Merit-Based Compensation, with opportunities for performance-based salary increases and bonuses.

• Career Development Programs designed to foster professional growth and advancement within the company.

• Continued Education Programs, supporting ongoing learning and skill enhancement.

• Retirement savings plans (e.g., 401k) with potential company match.

• Paid Time Off (PTO), including vacation, holidays, and sick leave.

• Potential for performance bonuses and other incentive programs. Working Hours:

• Standard work hours are typically between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

• Flexibility is required, as work may need to be performed at any time on any day of the week to meet business needs, particularly during critical project phases or client engagements.

• The role involves 10-50% travel, which will impact daily work schedules.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on industry benchmarks for Program Design Managers and senior engineering/construction management roles in the Midwest United States, considering the specified experience level and the company's industry. Compensation is expected to be merit-based, reflecting performance and contribution. The benefits package is described as industry-leading, with specific mentions of career development and education programs highlighting investment in employee growth.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction, Engineering, Manufacturing, and Renewable Energy. Faith Technologies operates at the intersection of these sectors, indicating a dynamic environment focused on innovation and integrated solutions.

Company Size: Faith Technologies is a significant employer, with a substantial number of employees (as indicated by LinkedIn data, though not explicitly provided in the input, a company of this scope typically employs hundreds to thousands). This suggests a structured organization with established processes, but also opportunities for impact.

Founded: Faith Technologies was founded in 1970, signifying a long-standing history and deep industry experience, likely translating into a culture that values expertise, reliability, and long-term relationships.

Team Structure:

• The Program Design Manager will likely be part of a larger engineering or project management division, potentially reporting to a Director of Engineering, VP of Operations, or similar senior leadership role.

• The role requires extensive collaboration with internal teams such as Estimating, Procurement, Manufacturing, Logistics, Construction, and BIM specialists.

• External collaboration will involve clients, consultants, and potentially regulatory bodies. Methodology:

• Faith Technologies emphasizes a "Culture of Care," suggesting a focus on employee well-being, professional development, and a supportive work environment.

• The company's operational approach likely involves a blend of rigorous engineering principles, advanced manufacturing techniques, and agile project management methodologies to handle complex, custom projects.

• A strong emphasis on data-driven decision-making and continuous improvement is implied by the need to leverage lessons learned and drive product evolution.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's long history and focus on a "Culture of Care" suggest an organization that values its employees and fosters a collaborative, supportive environment. The diverse industries served indicate a complex operational landscape requiring adaptability and a broad understanding of integrated project delivery.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior-level position within the program design and management track. It requires significant experience and the ability to lead complex initiatives with substantial autonomy. It's a key individual contributor role that can act as a stepping stone to leadership positions within engineering, project management, or operations.

Reporting Structure: The Program Design Manager will likely report to a Director-level or VP-level executive within Engineering, Project Management, or Operations. They will, in turn, lead and influence cross-functional project teams composed of engineers, designers, BIM specialists, and potentially others from execution departments.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct and significant impact on the company's revenue and profitability by ensuring that programs are designed efficiently, cost-effectively, and to the precise specifications required for successful execution. Effective program design minimizes costly rework, reduces project timelines, and enhances client satisfaction, all of which contribute to strong financial performance and repeat business.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Potential to specialize further in specific industries (e.g., Mission Critical, Renewable Energy) or project delivery models (e.g., advanced Design-Build).

• Leadership: Advancement into roles such as Director of Program Design, VP of Engineering, or Senior Director of Operations, managing larger teams and broader portfolios.

• Technical Expertise: Deepening expertise in ETO, advanced manufacturing, or renewable energy technologies, becoming a subject matter expert within the organization.

• Cross-Functional Mobility: Opportunities to move into broader operational leadership roles, leveraging a comprehensive understanding of the entire project lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: The Program Design Manager role is positioned as a critical nexus for technical strategy and operational execution. Growth opportunities are substantial, offering paths toward senior leadership, specialized expertise, or broader operational management, reflecting the company's investment in its team members' long-term careers.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Menasha, WI, and is described as "On-site," indicating a traditional office environment where collaboration and direct team interaction are expected. This setting is conducive to the hands-on leadership and coordination required for program design.

Office Location(s): Menasha, WI, United States. This location serves as the primary base for the role, with potential for travel to client sites, manufacturing facilities, or other Faith Technologies locations as needed.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is likely designed to foster collaboration, with meeting rooms, shared project spaces, and access to necessary design and project management software.

• Employees will have access to advanced design tools, BIM software, and project management platforms essential for program design and stakeholder coordination.

• Opportunities for regular interaction with engineering teams, project managers, estimators, and procurement specialists will be inherent to the role, promoting knowledge sharing and problem-solving.

Work Schedule: The standard work week is Monday to Friday, with typical hours between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. However, the role demands flexibility to accommodate business needs, which may include working outside of standard hours, on weekends, or during holidays, especially when managing critical project milestones or client demands. This flexibility is also influenced by the 10-50% travel requirement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement emphasizes a collaborative and interactive work environment, crucial for a role that bridges multiple departments and client interactions. The expectation of schedule flexibility is typical for senior roles involved in complex project execution, especially with travel components.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess alignment with minimum requirements, particularly experience in engineering, preconstruction, or contracting, and exposure to ETO/Design-Build models.

• Technical/Behavioral Interview: This stage will likely involve in-depth questions about your experience managing multidisciplinary projects, leading client-facing discussions, and problem-solving within design and execution contexts. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of programs you've managed from concept to completion.

• Portfolio Review & Case Study: You may be asked to present specific examples from your portfolio, detailing a complex program's design challenges, your approach to requirements documentation, stakeholder management, and the resulting outcomes. Focus on demonstrating your ability to translate client needs into actionable engineering and manufacturing plans.

• Cross-Functional Team Interaction: An interview with potential peers or leaders from key departments (e.g., Engineering, Operations, Estimating) to assess your collaboration style, communication effectiveness, and ability to integrate design with execution realities.

• Final Interview: Typically with senior leadership (e.g., Director, VP) to discuss strategic fit, leadership potential, and alignment with Faith Technologies' "Culture of Care."

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio by program type or impact area. For each project, clearly outline the: Challenge, Your Role/Approach, Key Decisions Made, Process Improvements Implemented, and Quantifiable Results (e.g., cost savings, schedule adherence, client satisfaction metrics).

• Content Focus: Highlight projects demonstrating experience with ETO, Design-Build, Mission Critical, or integrated project delivery. Showcase your ability to create clear Program Requirements Documentation, manage design schedules, and facilitate cross-functional decision-making.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the value you've added. For example, "Reduced design cycle time by X%," "Achieved Y% cost savings through value engineering," or "Successfully delivered Z projects within budget and on schedule."

• Presentation: Be prepared to walk through 1-3 key projects in detail, explaining your thought process, the methodologies you employed, and the tangible outcomes. Focus on your leadership and problem-solving capabilities.

Challenge Preparation:

• Anticipate scenario-based questions related to managing conflicting stakeholder requirements, resolving design disputes, or adapting to unexpected project changes.

• Be ready to discuss how you would approach developing a Program Requirements Document for a hypothetical complex project.

• Prepare to articulate your understanding of constructability and manufacturability in relation to design decisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to assess not only technical competency but also leadership, collaboration, and strategic thinking. A well-curated portfolio that clearly articulates process, impact, and problem-solving is crucial for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency in platforms like Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Asana, or similar for scheduling, resource allocation, and task management.

• CAD/BIM Software: Familiarity with industry-standard tools such as AutoCAD, Revit, Navisworks, or similar for design review, coordination, and visualization.

• Collaboration Platforms: Experience with tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for real-time communication and team coordination.

• Document Management Systems: Knowledge of systems for storing, organizing, and versioning project documentation and requirements.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Spreadsheet Software: Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel for data analysis, cost tracking, budget management, and reporting.

• Business Intelligence (BI) Tools: Familiarity with BI platforms like Tableau, Power BI, or similar for creating dashboards and visualizing project progress and performance metrics.

• ERP/MRP Systems: Exposure to Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) or Manufacturing Resource Planning (MRP) systems for understanding integrated operational data.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: While not the primary focus, understanding how CRM data (e.g., Salesforce, Dynamics 365) can inform design requirements or client needs may be beneficial.

• Automation Tools: Awareness of how automation can be applied to design processes, documentation generation, or project reporting to improve efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific tools aren't listed, the role's nature implies a need for strong proficiency in project management, CAD/BIM, and data analysis tools. Candidates should highlight their experience with systems that facilitate complex project design, cross-functional collaboration, and data-driven decision-making.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Culture of Care: This is a foundational value, emphasizing employee well-being, safety, and mutual respect. Operations professionals are expected to embody this by prioritizing team safety, supporting colleagues, and fostering a positive work environment.

• Integrity & Trust: Operating with honesty and transparency is paramount, especially when managing client relationships, budgets, and complex technical details.

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: A drive to find better ways to design, engineer, and deliver projects, leveraging new technologies and methodologies. This involves actively seeking feedback and implementing lessons learned.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Success hinges on effective partnership across departments. Operations professionals are expected to be proactive communicators and team players, valuing diverse perspectives.

• Accountability & Ownership: Taking responsibility for program design outcomes, from initial concept to successful execution, and demonstrating a commitment to delivering high-quality results.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive & Cross-Functional: The role demands an approach that actively seeks input from and provides clear direction to various internal departments (Engineering, Manufacturing, Procurement, Construction) and external stakeholders (Clients, Consultants).

• Data-Driven & Analytical: Decisions and recommendations should be supported by data, cost analysis, and technical assessments.

• Solution-Oriented: A focus on identifying challenges and collaboratively developing practical, effective solutions that meet program objectives.

• Transparent Communication: Maintaining open lines of communication to ensure all parties are informed of progress, risks, and decisions, fostering trust and alignment.

📝 Enhancement Note: Faith Technologies' "Culture of Care" is a significant differentiator, suggesting a workplace that values employee well-being alongside performance. The emphasis on integrity, innovation, and collaboration aligns with the demands of managing complex, multi-stakeholder projects in the construction and engineering sectors.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Scope Creep & Shifting Requirements: Balancing evolving client needs with established project scope and budget constraints. Mitigation involves rigorous requirements documentation and change control processes.

• Interdepartmental Alignment: Ensuring seamless communication and coordination between design teams and execution teams (manufacturing, construction), addressing potential disconnects between theoretical design and practical implementation.

• Balancing Innovation with Practicality: Introducing new design approaches or technologies while ensuring they are cost-effective, manufacturable, and constructible within project timelines and budgets.

• Travel Demands: The 10-50% travel requirement can be demanding and requires effective time management and adaptability.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Project Delivery Models: Deepening expertise in ETO, Design-Build, Mission Critical, and integrated project delivery through hands-on experience and potential specialized training.

• Industry Certifications: Opportunities to pursue certifications relevant to project management (e.g., PMP), construction management, or specific engineering disciplines.

• Leadership Development: Access to internal leadership programs and mentorship to prepare for senior management roles within Faith Technologies.

• Cross-Industry Exposure: Gaining broader knowledge across construction, manufacturing, and renewable energy sectors, enhancing versatility and strategic understanding.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant opportunities for professional growth by tackling complex design challenges and fostering cross-functional collaboration. The company's commitment to development suggests a supportive environment for skill enhancement and career advancement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex program you led from concept through execution. What were the key design challenges, how did you ensure stakeholder alignment, and what was the ultimate outcome?"

  • Preparation: Focus on a project that clearly demonstrates your experience with ETO, Design-Build, or similar complex models. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answer. Quantify results where possible. Emphasize your leadership in driving decisions and managing cross-functional teams.

• "How do you approach developing and documenting program requirements to serve as a 'single source of truth'?"

  • Preparation: Discuss your methodologies for requirements gathering, validation, and documentation. Highlight tools or processes you use to ensure clarity, completeness, and accessibility for all stakeholders. Mention your experience with requirements matrices or similar documentation.

• "Imagine a scenario where the engineering team proposes a design that is technically sound but significantly exceeds the budget. How would you navigate this situation?"

  • Preparation: Focus on your ability to facilitate value engineering discussions, explore alternative solutions, and negotiate trade-offs between technical requirements, cost, and schedule. Emphasize collaboration with estimating and procurement. Company & Culture Questions:

• "How do you see your skills aligning with Faith Technologies' 'Culture of Care'?"

  • Preparation: Research the "Culture of Care" further on their website. Prepare examples of how you prioritize team well-being, safety, and collaboration in your professional approach.

• "Describe your experience working with cross-functional teams. How do you ensure effective communication and collaboration between design and execution departments?"

  • Preparation: Provide specific examples of how you build relationships, manage expectations, and facilitate communication across diverse teams (e.g., engineers, manufacturers, construction crews). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select Key Projects: Choose 2-3 projects that best showcase your experience in managing complex programs, ETO/Design-Build, and client-facing leadership.

• Focus on Process & Impact: For each project, clearly explain:

  • The initial client requirements and program objectives.
  • Your design process and decision-making framework.
  • How you documented requirements and managed stakeholder input.
  • Key challenges faced (technical, budgetary, schedule) and how you resolved them.
  • The final design outcome and its success metrics (e.g., cost savings, efficiency gains, client satisfaction).

• Demonstrate Tool Proficiency: If applicable, briefly mention the design, BIM, or project management tools you utilized and how they contributed to the project's success.

📝 Enhancement Note: Thorough preparation, focusing on concrete examples of past successes and demonstrating an understanding of Faith Technologies' values and operational context, will be key to a successful interview.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Faith Technologies careers portal.

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight experience in engineering, preconstruction, or MEP contracting, specifically calling out projects involving Engineered-to-Order (ETO), Design-Build, Mission Critical, or integrated project delivery models. Use keywords from the job description such as "program design," "stakeholder coordination," "design reviews," and "technical strategy."

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a selection of projects that best demonstrate your ability to manage complex programs from concept to execution. Ensure you can clearly articulate your role, the design process, problem-solving strategies, and quantifiable outcomes. Be ready to present 2-3 key case studies.

• Research Faith Technologies: Understand the company's mission, values (especially the "Culture of Care"), and the industries they serve (construction, engineering, manufacturing, renewable energy). Prepare to discuss how your approach aligns with their culture and operational focus.

• Practice Interview Questions: Rehearse answers to common behavioral and situational questions, particularly those related to program management, client relations, cross-functional collaboration, and problem-solving in complex project environments.

⚠️ 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.