Program Design Manager - Aviation

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Program Design Manager - Aviation

Company: Colliers Engineering & Design (formerly Ramos CS)

Location: Los Angeles, California, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Program Management / Design Management (Aviation Infrastructure)

Date Posted: June 3, 2026

Experience Level: 20+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead strategic design initiatives for a major airport Authority, focusing on integrated program delivery and executive oversight.

• Drive the planning, design development, and design delivery phases for large-scale aviation capital improvement programs exceeding $1 billion.

• Manage and coordinate multiple consultant contracts, ensuring seamless integration and adherence to the Airport Authority's vision and operational requirements.

• Spearhead Building Information Modeling (BIM) program implementation, governance, and advanced coordination for complex infrastructure projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a senior-level professional with extensive experience in aviation infrastructure, specifically managing the design lifecycle of large-scale airport projects. The focus is on program-level coordination and strategic leadership, rather than individual project execution.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Serve as the Airport Authority's primary representative for all design-related activities, providing executive leadership and strategic direction throughout the program lifecycle.

• Oversee the development and execution of design procurement strategies, including the preparation of Task Order scopes of work and consultant procurement support.

• Administer design contracts, manage design quality assurance, conduct value engineering sessions, and ensure constructability and code compliance reviews are thorough.

• Direct and integrate pre-design, design development, design delivery, and design support services from multiple consultants, ensuring a cohesive and consistent approach aligned with the Airport Authority's goals.

• Establish and maintain structured design management processes that promote accountability, consistency, and alignment across all project elements, ensuring compliance with Airport Authority standards, regulations, and industry best practices.

• Manage and produce engineering deliverables across various disciplines (Civil, Structural, Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, Transportation, Geotechnical) for planning, design, procurement, construction, operations, and maintenance.

• Lead and coordinate all design interfaces among diverse project stakeholders, including Airport Operations, Airlines, FAA, TSA, concessionaires, tenants, utilities, public safety, regulatory authorities, and internal project teams.

• Provide executive leadership for Building Information Modeling (BIM) program implementation and governance, including evaluating BIM standards, developing manuals, defining Level of Development (LOD), and overseeing model coordination and clash detection.

• Ensure alignment between individual project milestones and overarching program objectives by monitoring key performance indicators (KPIs) for progress, resource utilization, budgets, risks, and opportunities.

• Identify program-level risks early and lead the development of proactive mitigation strategies to preemptively address potential impacts.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong emphasis on program-level oversight, cross-functional stakeholder management, and the strategic implementation of advanced technologies like BIM within a complex aviation environment.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering (Civil, Structural, Mechanical, Electrical, etc.), or a related technical field is required.

Experience:

• A minimum of 20 years of progressive experience in Construction Management is mandatory.

• Demonstrated experience managing a large team of engineers and design professionals on large-scale, complex projects.

Required Skills:

• Program Design Leadership: Proven ability to provide executive leadership and oversight for the entire design lifecycle of major capital programs.

• Aviation Infrastructure Expertise: Deep understanding of airport operations, planning, and the unique challenges of designing complex aviation facilities.

• Stakeholder Management: Exceptional ability to coordinate and collaborate with a wide array of internal and external stakeholders, including government agencies, airlines, and tenants.

• BIM Governance & Implementation: Expertise in leading BIM program implementation, establishing standards, and overseeing model coordination and clash detection for large infrastructure projects.

• Contract Administration & Procurement: Strong skills in managing consultant contracts, developing scopes of work, and supporting procurement processes.

• Risk Management & Mitigation: Proficient in identifying, assessing, and developing strategies to mitigate program-level risks.

• Financial Oversight: Experience in cost validation, value engineering, and budget monitoring for large-scale capital programs.

• Regulatory Compliance: Thorough knowledge of local, state, and federal regulations relevant to airport design and construction.

Preferred Skills:

• Professional Certifications: Relevant certifications such as AAAE (American Association of Airport Executives), LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), PE (Professional Engineer), PMP (Project Management Professional), or AICP (American Institute of Certified Planners) are highly desirable.

• Advanced Analytical Skills: Proficiency in monitoring Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and utilizing data analytics for program oversight.

• Technical Writing & Reporting: Ability to produce clear, concise technical reports and presentations for executive-level audiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of deep technical expertise in aviation infrastructure and construction management, coupled with significant leadership experience managing large teams and complex, high-value programs. Professional certifications are a strong plus, indicating a commitment to industry best practices.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Program Design Strategy: Showcase examples of strategic approaches to managing design phases for multi-billion dollar programs, demonstrating how you integrated diverse project elements.

• Stakeholder Coordination Framework: Present a documented framework or case study illustrating how you managed complex stakeholder engagements, conflict resolution, and requirements integration for aviation projects.

• BIM Implementation Case Study: Provide a detailed case study of your involvement in implementing or governing a BIM program for a large infrastructure project, highlighting standards development, coordination processes, and clash detection outcomes.

• Contract Management & Oversight: Include examples of contract administration for multiple design consultants, highlighting oversight mechanisms, performance monitoring, and risk mitigation strategies employed.

• Process Optimization Examples: Demonstrate instances where you established or refined design management processes to improve efficiency, accountability, or quality, ideally with quantifiable results.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Candidates should be prepared to discuss and potentially present examples of workflow designs for managing complex design processes, including gate reviews, approvals, and interdisciplinary coordination.

• Implementation & Automation: Showcase experience in implementing design management systems and processes, including the use of technology like BIM for improved collaboration and data management.

• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Prepare to discuss how you measured the performance of design processes, managed KPIs, and utilized data to drive continuous improvement and ensure alignment with program objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio demonstrating strategic thinking, process implementation, and leadership in complex, multi-stakeholder environments, particularly within aviation, will be critical. Emphasis should be placed on documented processes and measurable outcomes.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• The stated compensation is $260,000 to $295,000 per year, commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Healthcare: 100% employer-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance for employee base plans, with a 401(k) company match of 50% on the first 6% of employee contributions.

• Work-Life Balance: 120 hours of combined Paid Time Off (PTO) and Sick Time annually, in addition to paid holidays.

• Financial Well-being: Pre-tax Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) for medical, dental, and dependent care expenses.

• Employee Support: A 100% employer-paid Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offering confidential 24/7 support for personal and professional well-being.

• Career Development: Access to expanded national technical resources, mentorship programs, and diverse career development opportunities within Colliers Engineering & Design.

Working Hours:

• This is a full-time, on-site position, typically requiring a standard 40-hour work week. However, given the program's scale and critical nature, flexibility may be required to meet project deadlines and stakeholder demands, including occasional extended hours or weekend work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is competitive for a senior leadership role in program management within the aviation sector. The benefits package is robust, with a notable emphasis on employer-paid healthcare and retirement matching, reflecting a commitment to employee well-being and long-term financial security.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering, Design, Construction, and Consulting Services, with a specialized focus on Aviation Infrastructure. Colliers Engineering & Design is a national platform built through strategic acquisitions, including Ramos CS, bringing together extensive expertise.

Company Size: Part of a larger national firm (Colliers Engineering & Design), which operates across multiple states, likely employing hundreds or thousands of professionals. The specific team for this program will be significant, involving multiple project management and design professionals.

Founded: Colliers Engineering & Design is a modern entity formed through integration of established firms like Ramos CS, which itself has a history in engineering and consulting. This structure combines established expertise with a forward-looking approach.

Team Structure:

• The Program Design Manager will lead a large, multi-disciplinary team of engineering and design professionals, likely comprising internal staff and numerous external consultants.

• This role reports at a senior level, potentially to a Program Director or Executive leadership within Colliers Engineering & Design or directly to the Airport Authority's executive team.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Emphasis on monitoring KPIs, analyzing project performance, and using data to inform strategic decisions for design and program delivery.

• Integrated Project Delivery: Focus on coordinating disparate teams and consultants under a unified vision, ensuring all design elements align with overarching program goals.

• Process Standardization & Optimization: Development and implementation of structured design management processes, BIM standards, and quality assurance protocols to ensure consistency and efficiency.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: This role operates within a large, established engineering and design firm that has recently integrated specialized aviation expertise. The culture likely balances rigorous engineering standards with collaborative project execution and a focus on client success within complex public infrastructure environments.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior executive-level position, equivalent to Director or Vice President within a consulting firm context, focused on managing a critical, high-value program. It requires seasoned leadership and strategic oversight.

Reporting Structure: The Program Design Manager will likely report to a senior executive within Colliers Engineering & Design (e.g., a Vice President of Aviation Programs or similar) and will have direct interaction with the Airport Authority's executive leadership. The role involves managing a large team of direct reports (internal staff) and indirectly managing numerous external design consultants.

Operations Impact: The Program Design Manager's influence is paramount, directly shaping the physical infrastructure of a major international airport. Success impacts passenger experience (Skytrax 5-Star vision), operational efficiency, safety, security, and the long-term capital investment strategy of the Airport Authority. This role is central to realizing the Authority's strategic objectives through effective design management.

Growth Opportunities:

• Executive Leadership Advancement: Progression to higher-level Program Director roles, overseeing multiple large-scale airport programs or entire business units within Colliers Engineering & Design's aviation sector.

• Specialized Expertise Development: Deepening expertise in specific areas like BIM strategy, sustainability in airport design, or advanced security systems, potentially leading to specialized consulting roles or client advisory positions.

• Client Relationship Management: Building strong relationships with airport authorities and government agencies, which can lead to securing future large-scale projects and expanding the firm's footprint.

• Mentorship & Team Building: Opportunities to mentor junior engineers and program managers, shaping the next generation of aviation infrastructure leaders within the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role represents a pinnacle for many operations and program management professionals, offering significant impact, executive visibility, and clear pathways for continued leadership growth within the aviation infrastructure sector.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is primarily on-site at the airport or a dedicated project office in Los Angeles. This environment is fast-paced, dynamic, and often involves direct interaction with active airport operations.

Office Location(s): Los Angeles, California. Specific office location will be within or near the airport facilities, facilitating direct engagement with the Airport Authority and project sites.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will be collaborative, requiring constant interaction with internal team members, external consultants, and Airport Authority representatives.

• Access to advanced project management software, BIM platforms, and communication tools will be standard. The environment demands efficient information flow and rapid decision-making.

• Opportunities for direct site visits and engagement with construction and operational teams will be frequent, providing a hands-on understanding of project progress and challenges.

Work Schedule: While a standard 40-hour work week is expected, the demands of managing a program of this magnitude and complexity often necessitate flexibility. This could include extended hours, occasional weekend work, and being responsive to urgent issues that arise at any time. The focus is on delivery and meeting critical program milestones.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature of this role is crucial for effective stakeholder engagement and direct oversight of a large, complex aviation program. The environment fosters close collaboration and requires adaptability to the dynamic demands of airport operations.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application by HR and a senior hiring manager to assess alignment with core qualifications, particularly experience with large-scale aviation projects and leadership scope.

• Technical & Behavioral Interview: In-depth discussions focusing on your experience managing design programs, stakeholder coordination strategies, BIM implementation, risk mitigation, and leadership philosophies. Expect questions probing your ability to handle complex operational and design challenges.

• Case Study Presentation: Candidates will likely be asked to present a detailed case study from their portfolio, showcasing their approach to a significant design challenge, program integration, or stakeholder conflict resolution on a large infrastructure project. This is a critical step to assess practical application of skills.

• Executive-Level Interview: Final interviews with senior leadership from Colliers Engineering & Design and potentially key stakeholders from the Airport Authority to assess strategic fit, executive presence, and alignment with company and client objectives.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Program-Level Impact: Highlight your experience managing entire design programs, not just individual projects. Emphasize strategic oversight, integration, and achieving overarching program goals.

• Quantify Achievements: Wherever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the impact of your work, e.g., cost savings through value engineering, schedule improvements through better coordination, risk reduction achieved.

• Showcase Stakeholder Management: Include examples of how you navigated complex stakeholder relationships, managed conflicting requirements, and secured buy-in for design decisions.

• Detail BIM Expertise: Present your experience with BIM implementation, governance, and advanced coordination techniques (e.g., clash detection, LOD management) with specific project examples.

• Structure for Clarity: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or by functional area (e.g., Program Management, Design Oversight, BIM). Ensure it's easy to navigate and highlights your most relevant accomplishments.

Challenge Preparation:

• Strategic Problem-Solving: Be prepared to discuss how you would approach common challenges in airport design programs, such as scope creep, budget overruns, regulatory hurdles, or design conflicts between disciplines.

• BIM Strategy: Anticipate questions about developing and enforcing BIM standards, managing model quality, and leveraging BIM for operational benefits post-construction.

• Stakeholder Alignment: Practice articulating how you would ensure all stakeholders, from operational staff to regulatory bodies, are aligned and their requirements are met throughout the design process.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to evaluate not only technical expertise but also strategic thinking, leadership capability, and the ability to manage complex, multi-faceted programs at an executive level. A well-curated portfolio is essential for demonstrating this experience.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency with enterprise-level project management platforms such as Primavera P6, Microsoft Project, or similar for scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking on large capital programs.

• BIM Software & Platforms: Deep familiarity with the BIM ecosystem, including Autodesk Revit, Navisworks for coordination and clash detection, BIM 360/ACC for collaboration, and potentially other specialized BIM viewers or analytical tools.

• Collaboration Suites: Experience with cloud-based collaboration platforms like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or Google Workspace for efficient communication and document sharing.

• Document Management Systems: Familiarity with robust document control systems for managing large volumes of design documents, specifications, and reports.

Analytics & Reporting:

• KPI Dashboards: Experience with creating and interpreting dashboards for tracking program-level KPIs, potentially using tools like Tableau, Power BI, or integrated reporting features within project management software.

• Financial Tracking Tools: Ability to work with financial management systems and reporting tools to monitor budgets, validate costs, and track expenditures.

• Risk Management Software: Familiarity with tools or methodologies for risk identification, assessment, and tracking throughout the program lifecycle.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a traditional CRM role, understanding how client relationship management principles apply to managing relationships with the Airport Authority and key stakeholders is beneficial.

• Familiarity with workflow automation tools or principles within project management and design processes to enhance efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with industry-standard project management and BIM software is critical. The ability to leverage these tools for data analysis, reporting, and driving efficient workflows is highly valued for this program management role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all dealings with clients, consultants, and regulatory bodies.

• Excellence in Execution: A commitment to delivering high-quality design outcomes that meet or exceed client expectations and industry standards.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a collaborative environment where diverse teams and consultants work cohesively towards shared program goals.

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: Encouraging the adoption of new technologies and methodologies (like advanced BIM) to enhance efficiency and project outcomes.

• Client Focus: Prioritizing the Airport Authority's strategic objectives, operational needs, and customer experience vision in all design decisions.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive and Transparent: Maintaining open lines of communication with all stakeholders, providing regular updates, and addressing concerns proactively.

• Facilitative Leadership: Guiding diverse groups towards consensus and decision-making, resolving conflicts constructively.

• Cross-Functional Integration: Actively bridging gaps between design teams, operations, security, maintenance, and regulatory bodies to ensure holistic project development.

• Feedback-Driven: Encouraging a culture of constructive feedback among team members and consultants to drive continuous improvement in design processes and outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company and client likely value a professional, collaborative, and results-oriented approach. Candidates should demonstrate an ability to lead diverse teams, manage complex relationships, and maintain a strong focus on delivering value to the Airport Authority.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Program Complexity & Scale: Managing a multi-billion dollar program involves intricate interdependencies, numerous stakeholders, and significant financial oversight. The sheer scale presents a constant challenge in maintaining alignment and control.

• Stakeholder Alignment: Balancing the diverse and sometimes competing needs of various stakeholders (airlines, FAA, TSA, tenants, operations, public) requires exceptional diplomatic and negotiation skills.

• Technological Integration: Ensuring effective implementation and utilization of advanced technologies like BIM across multiple consultant teams, while managing data integrity and interoperability.

• Risk Management: Proactively identifying and mitigating risks associated with large-scale infrastructure projects, such as unforeseen site conditions, regulatory changes, or major schedule delays.

• Maintaining Strategic Focus: Ensuring that the day-to-day execution of design tasks remains aligned with the Airport Authority's long-term strategic goals and customer experience vision.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Executive Program Management: Gaining invaluable experience managing one of the largest and most complex aviation infrastructure programs in the country.

• Industry Leadership: Developing deep expertise in airport design, BIM governance, and public-private partnerships, positioning oneself as a leader in the aviation infrastructure sector.

• Advanced BIM & Digital Transformation: Leading the charge in adopting and integrating cutting-edge digital technologies for infrastructure development.

• Cross-Functional Acumen: Broadening understanding of airport operations, security, and business functions through constant interaction with various departments.

• Mentorship & Influence: Opportunities to mentor a large team and influence the strategic direction of major infrastructure development for a significant airport.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges but offers unparalleled opportunities for professional growth and impact. Candidates should be prepared for a demanding yet rewarding experience that will significantly advance their careers in program management and infrastructure development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to managing a program design budget of over $1 billion, including cost validation and value engineering strategies." (Focus on financial controls, risk assessment, and cost-saving methodologies.)

• "How would you ensure alignment and consensus among diverse stakeholders, such as airline representatives, FAA officials, and airport operations, on critical design decisions?" (Prepare examples of negotiation, conflict resolution, and communication strategies.)

• "Walk us through your experience establishing and governing a BIM program for a large infrastructure project. What were the key challenges, and how did you ensure successful adoption and integration?" (Detail your process for standards development, coordination, and data management.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Colliers Engineering & Design and Ramos CS, and how do you see your expertise contributing to our aviation sector goals?" (Research the company's recent acquisitions, aviation portfolio, and stated mission.)

• "How do you foster a collaborative environment when managing numerous external consultants and internal teams with potentially competing priorities?" (Highlight your leadership style, communication approach, and conflict resolution skills.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Thematic Approach: Select 2-3 key projects or initiatives that best demonstrate your program design leadership, BIM expertise, and stakeholder management skills.

• Storytelling with Data: For each example, clearly articulate the challenge, your strategy and actions, and the quantifiable results or impact achieved. Use visuals (diagrams, charts) where appropriate.

• Focus on Program Integration: Emphasize how you managed interdependencies between projects and ensured a cohesive design across the entire program.

• BIM in Action: Showcase specific examples of how BIM was used for coordination, clash detection, or value engineering, and the tangible benefits realized.

• Concise and Focused: Be prepared to present within a set timeframe, highlighting the most critical aspects of your experience relevant to this specific role.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating strategic thinking, deep experience in aviation infrastructure, and proven leadership capabilities in managing complex, large-scale programs. Quantifiable achievements and clear examples of process implementation are crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the Colliers Engineering & Design careers portal via the provided link.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and cover letter to specifically highlight your experience with large-scale aviation projects, program design management, BIM implementation, and senior-level leadership. Ensure it clearly addresses the 20+ years of experience and $1B+ program requirements.

• Resume Optimization: Integrate keywords found in the job description (e.g., "Program Design Manager," "Airport Authority," "BIM Governance," "Stakeholder Coordination," "Capital Improvement Programs," "Value Engineering") naturally throughout your resume to align with ATS scanning and hiring manager review.

• Interview Preparation: Thoroughly review the "Interview Preparation" section above. Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method and prepare your portfolio case study for presentation.

• Company Research: Deeply research Colliers Engineering & Design, its aviation sector projects, and the specific context of this role within the Los Angeles airport system. Understand their values and client focus to articulate your cultural fit.

⚠️ 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.