Senior Deputy Design Manager - Municipal Projects

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Deputy Design Manager - Municipal Projects

Company: Turner & Townsend

Location: Chicago, Illinois, United States

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Construction Management / Project Management (Operations & GTM Support)

Date Posted: May 21, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: Hybrid (2-3 days on-site)

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is critical for overseeing the design and pre-construction phases of large-scale municipal projects, acting as a key liaison between the client, construction managers, and design professionals.

• Focuses on managing Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR) contracts and external design consultants to ensure project objectives are met efficiently and effectively within budget and quality standards.

• Requires a strong understanding of civil engineering principles and construction management best practices, with a proven ability to drive innovation and cost-effectiveness in project delivery.

• Involves detailed documentation, coordination, and communication across multiple project stakeholders, leveraging advanced project management software and technical design tools.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title "Senior Deputy Design Manager" suggests a focus on design, the core responsibilities and requirements clearly place this role within the broader umbrella of Construction Project Management and Operations, specifically within the GTM (Go-To-Market) support framework for municipal clients. The emphasis on CMAR contracts, pre-construction, and construction procurement indicates a significant operational and strategic component beyond pure design management. The role acts as a bridge between the client's vision and the execution of construction projects, demanding strong operational oversight and stakeholder management.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Provide direct support and reporting to Project Managers or Project Directors, ensuring seamless execution of project plans.

• Manage, coordinate, and administer civil scopes of work throughout all design and construction phases, ensuring alignment with project objectives.

• Uphold the highest standards of client service, proactively addressing client needs and expectations throughout the project lifecycle.

• Prepare and maintain essential project documentation, including reports, schedules, invoices, RFIs, submittals, meeting minutes, daily reports, change orders, inspection records, and closeout documents.

• Facilitate project team meetings, ensuring effective communication and timely decision-making among all stakeholders.

• Communicate conceptual civil designs and maintain comprehensive project documentation before, during, and after construction.

• Develop and maintain the Basis of Design, prototype designs, and template specifications for civil elements to ensure consistency and quality.

• Review and provide input on design Request for Proposals (RFPs), ensuring clarity, completeness, and alignment with project requirements.

• Manage external design consultants, overseeing their performance throughout the design and construction processes.

• Effectively communicate design standards and project requirements to internal and external project partners.

• Juggle multiple fast-paced projects simultaneously, ensuring timely delivery and quality outcomes.

• Identify and implement innovative solutions to reduce costs without compromising quality or reliability during pre-construction and construction phases.

• Oversee the commissioning of electrical scopes and coordinate with the project management team for successful project completion.

• Adhere to SOX control responsibilities where applicable, ensuring compliance and integrity in financial and operational processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities listed are highly operational, focusing on execution, documentation, coordination, and stakeholder management within the construction lifecycle. The emphasis on "thinking outside the box to find innovative solutions" points to a proactive problem-solving and process optimization approach, characteristic of advanced operations roles. The inclusion of SOX controls indicates a need for rigorous process adherence and compliance, a common requirement in large-scale public sector projects.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• College Degree in Civil Engineering or Construction Management preferred.

• Licensed architect or architectural education is preferred. Experience:

• Extensive prior experience working as a CM for a Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR) or as a CM managing CMAR Contracts.

• Significant experience leading the pre-construction/design process for large-scale municipal projects.

• Proven track record in delivering high-quality programs and managing complex construction programs.

• Construction consultancy experience is strongly desirable.

• Prior commissioning experience is required.

• Manufacturing or Mission Critical experience is strongly desirable. Required Skills:

• Proficiency in Civil design principles and applications.

• Solid working proficiency with AutoCAD, Revit, and Bluebeam.

• Expertise in MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).

• Excellent presentation skills and ability to be highly effective in a client-facing role.

• Strong team player with the ability to work collaboratively.

• Excellent problem-solving, critical thinking, and analytical skills.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

• Ability to multi-task and manage time effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with project management software for tracking and reporting.

• Familiarity with RFI, submittal, and change order management processes.

• Understanding of basis of design documentation and template specifications.

• Knowledge of SOX compliance and controls.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of technical design understanding (Civil Engineering, AutoCAD, Revit) and robust project/construction management operational skills (CMAR, pre-construction, client management). The preference for architectural education and experience in specific sectors like Manufacturing or Mission Critical suggests a need for specialized knowledge in complex building systems, a common requirement for senior operations roles in specialized construction. The explicit mention of "client-facing role" and "client service" highlights the importance of stakeholder management, a key operational competency.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrations of successful management of CMAR contracts, showcasing contract negotiation, execution, and oversight.

• Case studies detailing the pre-construction and design management process for large municipal projects, highlighting strategic planning and risk mitigation.

• Examples of civil design oversight, including review of Basis of Design documents and prototype specifications.

• Documentation showcasing innovative cost-reduction strategies implemented without compromising project quality or reliability.

• Records of successful project commissioning, particularly for electrical scopes. Process Documentation:

• Workflow designs and optimization strategies for managing RFIs, submittals, and change orders within a CMAR framework.

• Implementation and automation methods for project documentation and information management using project management software.

• Measurement and performance analysis of client service delivery, demonstrating client satisfaction and retention.

• Process documentation for managing external design consultants and ensuring adherence to design standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role like this, a portfolio should highlight not just completed projects but the processes and methodologies used to achieve successful outcomes. This includes demonstrating how complex contracts (CMAR) were managed, how design was optimized for cost and quality, and how client relationships were maintained through effective communication and service delivery. The ability to document and articulate these processes is crucial for showcasing operational expertise.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $140,000 - $160,000 per year This range is a reflection of base salary only and does not include potential bonuses, overtime, or other compensation elements. Turner & Townsend reserves the right to pay more or less than the posted range based on the candidate's experience and qualifications.

Benefits:

• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance: Comprehensive coverage for employees and eligible dependents.

• Retirement Savings Plan: 401(k) or similar plan with potential company match.

• Paid Time Off (PTO): Includes vacation days, sick leave, and paid holidays.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, certifications, and continuing education.

• Life and Disability Insurance: Coverage to protect employees and their families.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses or incentives. Working Hours:

• Standard full-time workweek is approximately 40 hours.

• Hybrid work arrangement requires 2-3 days on-site at the Chicago office.

• Flexibility may be offered based on project needs and team collaboration requirements, but core hours and on-site presence are essential for this role.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is competitive for a Senior Deputy Design Manager role with 10+ years of experience in a major metropolitan area like Chicago. The benefits listed are standard for a company of Turner & Townsend's size and industry, focusing on employee well-being and professional growth. The hybrid nature of the role, with specific on-site requirements, is a key operational consideration for candidates.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction, Project Management, Consulting (Public Sector focus)

Company Size: 1001-5000 employees (Turner & Townsend global presence)

Founded: 1952 (Heery International, now part of Turner & Townsend)

Team Structure:

• The role reports to Project Managers or Project Directors within the municipal projects division.

• Close collaboration with external CMARs, architects, engineers, and other design professionals.

• Integration with a multidisciplinary team of experts specializing in public sector facilities.

• Operations team members are expected to contribute to a client-centric culture, emphasizing service excellence and value addition. Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making with a focus on performance metrics and ROI.

• Proactive problem-solving and risk management throughout the project lifecycle.

• Emphasis on best practices in construction management and design coordination.

• Client-centric approach, ensuring the client's vision and needs are paramount.

• Commitment to innovation and finding efficient solutions.

Company Website: www.turnerandtownsend.com / https://www.heery.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Turner & Townsend, through its acquisition of Heery International, has a strong legacy in public sector project and program management. This implies a culture that values integrity, expertise, and long-term client relationships. The company's size suggests a structured environment with established processes, but also opportunities for cross-functional collaboration and exposure to diverse projects. The operational focus will be on delivering complex projects for government entities, requiring adaptability and a deep understanding of public procurement and regulations.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior Management / Leadership Support

This role represents a senior position within the project management hierarchy, requiring significant experience and the ability to mentor and guide project teams. It's a crucial step for individuals looking to move into full Project Director or Program Manager roles, particularly within complex public sector or mission-critical environments.

Reporting Structure:

• Reports directly to senior project leadership (Project Manager/Director).

• Manages relationships and provides oversight to external CMARs and design consultants.

• Works closely with internal project teams, potentially including other Deputy Managers or Project Engineers. Operations Impact:

• Directly influences the success of large-scale municipal projects by ensuring efficient design, pre-construction, and procurement processes.

• Contributes to cost savings and quality improvements through proactive problem-solving and innovative solutions.

• Plays a key role in client satisfaction and retention by delivering exceptional service and achieving project goals.

• Upholds the company's reputation for excellence in public sector project management. Growth Opportunities:

• Advancement to Project Manager or Project Director roles within municipal or other specialized sectors (e.g., mission critical, manufacturing).

• Opportunity to lead larger, more complex projects or programs.

• Specialization in specific areas such as advanced CMAR contract management, sustainable design integration, or complex commissioning processes.

• Development of leadership skills through mentorship and team management.

• Potential for involvement in business development and client relationship management for future municipal projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a critical stepping stone for career progression within construction and project management operations. The emphasis on CMAR management and complex project phases indicates a path towards leadership in operational execution and strategic project planning. The company's focus on public sector work provides a stable yet challenging environment for long-term growth.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid Model - Combination of remote work and on-site presence in Chicago.

Office Location(s): Chicago, Illinois, United States. Specific office details are not provided, but it is expected to be a professional corporate office environment.

Workspace Context:

• The role requires a dynamic work environment balancing remote flexibility with critical on-site collaboration.

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

• Opportunities for collaboration with a diverse range of professionals, including project managers, engineers, architects, and client representatives.

• The nature of municipal projects often involves site visits and client meetings, requiring adaptability in work location. Work Schedule:

• Standard 40-hour workweek, with potential for extended hours during critical project phases.

• The hybrid arrangement mandates 2-3 days per week at the Chicago office, with the remaining days adaptable based on project needs and remote work capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of this role is a significant factor for operations professionals. It requires strong self-discipline for remote work and excellent communication skills to maintain effective collaboration when not physically present. The on-site requirement is crucial for client engagement and hands-on project oversight, typical for operational roles in construction management.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Initial Screening: HR or recruiter will review applications and resumes, focusing on alignment with core requirements (experience with CMAR, municipal projects, civil design).

2. Hiring Manager Interview: A more in-depth discussion with the hiring manager or Project Director to assess technical expertise, project management philosophy, and fit with the team's operational approach. Expect questions on CMAR management, design oversight, and client relations.

3. Technical Assessment/Case Study: Candidates may be asked to present a case study from their portfolio detailing a complex municipal project they managed, focusing on challenges, solutions, and outcomes. This could involve a simulated problem-solving scenario related to design, budget, or schedule.

4. Team/Stakeholder Interview: Meeting with other team members or key stakeholders (potentially including client representatives) to evaluate collaboration style, communication skills, and cultural fit within the operations team.

5. Final Interview/Offer: Final discussion with senior leadership, potentially including a review of compensation and benefits, followed by an offer.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight CMAR Expertise: Showcase specific examples of your role in managing CMAR contracts, detailing your responsibilities in pre-construction, procurement, and construction phases. Quantify outcomes where possible (e.g., cost savings achieved, schedule efficiencies gained).

• Municipal Project Focus: Present case studies of municipal projects, emphasizing your understanding of public sector requirements, stakeholder engagement, and compliance.

• Process Documentation: Include examples of how you've documented and optimized workflows for RFIs, submittals, change orders, and client reporting. Demonstrate your ability to maintain clear and comprehensive project records.

• Design & Technical Acumen: Detail your involvement in reviewing Basis of Design documents, civil designs, and specifications. Showcase your ability to identify potential issues and propose constructive solutions.

• Problem-Solving & Innovation: Present specific instances where you identified and implemented innovative solutions to overcome challenges, reduce costs, or improve quality, clearly articulating the problem, your solution, and the impact.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss your approach to managing project risks, particularly during the design and pre-construction phases.

• Anticipate questions about your strategies for effective communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders (clients, consultants, contractors).

• Practice articulating your experience with AutoCAD, Revit, and Bluebeam, focusing on how you've used these tools operationally to support project goals.

• Develop a clear narrative for your most impactful project, focusing on your specific contributions and the operational excellence demonstrated.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role will heavily scrutinize practical experience in managing complex construction operations, particularly within the CMAR framework and for municipal clients. A strong portfolio demonstrating process management, problem-solving, and client-facing skills will be essential for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• AutoCAD: For reviewing and understanding civil designs and site plans.

• Revit: For collaborating on BIM models and understanding architectural/structural designs.

• Bluebeam: For document markup, collaboration, and review of construction drawings and specifications.

• MS Office Suite: Essential for reporting, scheduling, presentations, and general communication (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Project Management Software: Likely systems such as Procore, Autodesk Construction Cloud (formerly BIM 360), or similar platforms for managing project documentation, RFIs, submittals, change orders, and reporting.

• Financial Tracking Tools: For managing project budgets, invoices, and change order costs.

CRM & Automation:

• Client Relationship Management (CRM) Principles: While not a specific CRM software requirement, the role demands strong client management skills, which are often supported by CRM functionalities.

• Workflow Automation within PM Software: Utilizing features within project management platforms to automate notification, approval routing, and document distribution.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in industry-standard design and project management software is a baseline requirement. The ability to leverage these tools for operational efficiency, data management, and clear communication is key. The role implies working within a robust project management information system (PMIS).

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding ethical standards and taking ownership of project responsibilities and outcomes.

• Client Focus: Prioritizing client needs and delivering exceptional service to build long-term relationships.

• Excellence & Quality: Striving for the highest standards in all aspects of project delivery, from design oversight to final closeout.

• Innovation & Efficiency: Continuously seeking better ways to manage projects, solve problems, and optimize processes to drive value.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Working effectively with internal teams, external partners, and clients to achieve shared goals.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive and communicative, fostering open dialogue with all project stakeholders.

• Solutions-oriented, focusing on collaborative problem-solving.

• Respectful of diverse perspectives and expertise from different disciplines.

• Focused on clear communication to ensure alignment on project objectives, standards, and timelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture emphasizes professional excellence and client satisfaction, which are critical for success in public sector consulting. Operations professionals are expected to embody these values through their daily work, driving efficiency and accountability.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Complex Stakeholder Expectations: Balancing the needs and priorities of municipal clients, CMARs, design consultants, and internal teams.

• Navigating Public Procurement Processes: Understanding and adhering to the specific regulations and requirements of municipal projects.

• Driving Innovation within Established Structures: Implementing new solutions or process improvements within potentially bureaucratic public sector environments.

• Simultaneous Management of Multiple Projects: Effectively prioritizing tasks and resources to deliver on time and within budget across several concurrent initiatives.

• Ensuring Quality and Cost Control: Finding the balance between delivering high-quality results and managing project costs effectively, especially in value engineering scenarios.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced CMAR Contract Management: Deepen expertise in managing complex contractual agreements and dispute resolution.

• Public Sector Project Finance & Procurement: Gain specialized knowledge in the financial and regulatory aspects of municipal projects.

• Leadership Development Programs: Enhance skills in team management, strategic planning, and stakeholder influence.

• Industry Certifications: Pursue certifications such as PMP (Project Management Professional), CCM (Certified Construction Manager), or LEED accreditation.

• Exposure to Diverse Project Types: Gain experience across various municipal facilities, broadening technical and operational knowledge.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges related to complex project environments and stakeholder management, which are also fertile ground for professional growth. The company offers opportunities to develop specialized expertise in public sector construction operations.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your experience managing CMAR contracts. What were the biggest challenges and how did you overcome them?" (Focus on process, risk management, and outcomes).

• "Walk me through a complex municipal project you managed from design through construction. What was your specific role, and what were the key operational successes or lessons learned?" (Prepare a concise case study highlighting your process and impact).

• "How do you ensure effective communication and collaboration between design consultants and contractors on a large-scale project?" (Discuss communication protocols, conflict resolution, and stakeholder engagement strategies).

• "Describe a situation where you identified an opportunity to reduce project costs without compromising quality. What was your approach, and what was the result?" (Showcase innovation, analytical skills, and operational efficiency). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working with municipal projects and Turner & Townsend specifically?" (Research the company's public sector portfolio and values).

• "How do you approach client relationship management to ensure client satisfaction and retention?" (Align with the company's client-centric culture).

• "Describe your experience working in a hybrid environment. How do you maintain productivity and collaboration?" (Highlight self-management and communication skills). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure your Case Studies: For each project presented, clearly outline: The Challenge (project scope, client needs), Your Role & Responsibilities (operational actions taken), The Solution (processes implemented, innovations), and The Outcome (quantifiable results, lessons learned).

• Emphasize Process: When discussing your work, focus on how you managed processes (e.g., RFIs, submittals, change orders, design reviews) and why your approach was effective.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use metrics to demonstrate your impact (e.g., percentage of cost savings, schedule improvements, reduction in RFIs, client satisfaction scores).

• Demonstrate Technical Proficiency: Be ready to discuss how you used AutoCAD, Revit, or Bluebeam operationally to support your projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on showcasing practical, hands-on experience in construction operations management, particularly within the context of CMAR contracts and municipal projects. A strong portfolio and the ability to articulate processes and outcomes are crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on SmartRecruiters.

• Tailor Your Resume: Ensure your resume clearly highlights experience with CMAR contracts, municipal projects, civil design management, pre-construction, and the use of AutoCAD, Revit, and Bluebeam. Use keywords from the job description and AI keywords provided.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Compile relevant case studies and documentation that showcase your project management processes, problem-solving skills, and successful project outcomes. Be ready to present key examples during the interview process.

• Research Turner & Townsend: Familiarize yourself with the company's projects, values, and its role in the public sector construction market. Understand their approach to client service and innovation.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare answers to common interview questions, focusing on operational aspects, leadership, and client engagement, and practice articulating your experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).

⚠️ 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.

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