SENIOR DESIGN-BUILD DESIGN MANAGER

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Design-Build Design Manager

Company: Parsons Corporation

Location: New York, NY, United States (with remote options and travel to job sites)

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Critical Infrastructure / Engineering Management

Date Posted: April 15, 2026

Experience Level: 20+ years of related work experience

Remote Status: Remote OK

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage complex, large-scale transportation infrastructure projects with a total installed cost exceeding $1 billion, focusing on design-build delivery.

• Drive the marketing and pursuit strategy for new design-build opportunities, contributing to the company's substantial pipeline of over 50 pursuits.

• Provide expert direction and management for multidisciplinary teams on challenging, high-profile road and highway projects across North America.

• Ensure robust scope development, meticulous scope management, and strong commercial performance throughout the project lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within Parsons' Critical Infrastructure team, indicating a focus on projects that are vital to community functionality and resilience. The emphasis on "design-build" suggests a need for expertise in managing the entire project lifecycle from initial design through construction, requiring a unique blend of technical engineering and project management acumen. The mention of "over 30 design-build projects underway" and "over 50 pursuits" highlights the significant growth and opportunity within this sector at Parsons.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Spearhead the management of design-build projects valued at over $1 billion in total installed cost, ensuring successful delivery of critical transportation improvements.

• Develop and execute winning marketing and pursuit strategies for complex infrastructure proposals, leveraging deep understanding of client needs and competitive landscapes.

• Define, manage, and control project scope meticulously, ensuring alignment with client requirements and contractual obligations while mitigating risks.

• Oversee and foster collaboration among diverse stakeholders, including internal multidisciplinary teams, clients, regulatory bodies, and subcontractors, to achieve project objectives.

• Drive commercial performance by managing budgets, contracts, and financial reporting, ensuring profitability and client satisfaction on large-scale infrastructure endeavors.

• Lead and mentor multidisciplinary engineering and construction teams, fostering a collaborative environment that promotes innovation, efficiency, and high-quality project execution.

• Ensure compliance with all relevant engineering standards, safety regulations, and environmental requirements throughout the design and construction phases.

• Actively participate in client relationship management, building trust and ensuring effective communication to support project success and future business development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities emphasize a dual focus on technical design leadership (roadway/bridge design, multidisciplinary teams) and strategic business development (marketing, pursuit strategy, commercial performance). This Senior Design-Build Design Manager role is clearly a high-impact position responsible for significant financial and operational outcomes.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• A minimum of 20 years of progressive, related work experience is required, with a strong emphasis on large-scale infrastructure projects.

• Demonstrated experience specifically as a Design Manager within Design-Build project delivery frameworks is essential.

• Extensive experience in the design of complex roadways and bridges is a prerequisite for this role.

Required Skills:

• Design-Build Management: Expertise in managing all facets of design-build projects, from proposal to completion.

• Civil Engineering Expertise: Deep technical knowledge in civil engineering principles, with specialized experience in roadway and bridge design.

• Project & Program Management: Proven ability to manage large-scale projects (>$1B TIC), including scope, schedule, budget, and risk.

• Multidisciplinary Team Leadership: Skill in leading, motivating, and coordinating diverse engineering and technical teams.

• Professional Engineer (PE) License: A current and valid Registered Professional Engineer (PE) license is a mandatory requirement.

• Commercial Acumen: Strong understanding of project finance, contract management, and driving commercial success.

• Scope Management: Proficiency in defining, controlling, and managing project scope to prevent deviations and ensure alignment.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with clients, internal teams, and external partners.

Preferred Skills:

• Proposal Development & Strategy: Proven ability to contribute to and lead the development of winning project proposals, identifying key differentiators and strategies.

• Business Development Acumen: Strong strategic thinking and commercial awareness, with an understanding of market dynamics and client acquisition.

• Leadership Presence: A 'roll-up your sleeves' leadership style, demonstrating professionalism, resilience, and the ability to inspire confidence.

• Advanced Degree: A Master's degree in Civil Engineering or a related field may be advantageous.

• Experience with Large Infrastructure Programs: Experience managing multiple interconnected projects within a larger program.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a PE license and 20+ years of experience, specifically in Design-Build as a Design Manager, indicates this is a senior-level position demanding significant technical depth and leadership experience. The preferred skills highlight a need for strategic thinking and business development capabilities beyond pure technical management.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design-Build Project Case Studies: Showcase at least 2-3 significant Design-Build projects managed, detailing your specific role, team size, project value, and key challenges overcome.

• Scope Management Examples: Provide concrete examples of how you have defined, controlled, and managed scope on complex infrastructure projects, illustrating processes used to prevent scope creep and manage changes.

• Team Leadership & Collaboration: Present evidence of leading multidisciplinary teams, including examples of how you fostered collaboration, resolved conflicts, and drove team performance.

• Commercial Performance Documentation: Include metrics or case studies demonstrating your ability to manage project budgets, control costs, and ensure profitable commercial outcomes.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Demonstrate a structured approach to designing and optimizing engineering workflows specific to Design-Build projects, including methodologies for integrating design and construction phases.

• Risk Management Processes: Outline the processes you employ for identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks inherent in large-scale infrastructure Design-Build projects.

• Stakeholder Communication Protocols: Detail established protocols for clear, consistent, and effective communication with all project stakeholders, including clients, team members, and regulatory bodies.

• Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) Frameworks: Present your approach to implementing and overseeing QA/QC processes to ensure design integrity and construction quality in complex projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the role's focus on managing large, complex Design-Build projects, a portfolio demonstrating practical application of project management methodologies, especially in scope and commercial management, is crucial. The emphasis on process documentation suggests that candidates should be prepared to articulate their systematic approaches to problem-solving and project execution.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $176,900.00 - $332,400.00 USD per year

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans designed to support employee and family wellbeing.

• Work-Life Balance Support: Generous paid time off (PTO) and flexible work schedules to accommodate personal needs and professional demands.

• Retirement Planning: A robust 401(k) plan, providing a strong foundation for long-term financial security.

• Employee Ownership: Participation in an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), aligning employee success with company growth.

• Financial Security: Life insurance coverage to provide peace of mind for employees and their families.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for continuous learning and career advancement, as indicated by the company's commitment to growth.

Working Hours: The standard workweek is 40 hours, with flexibility offered through "flexible work schedules" as noted in the benefits. Travel to job sites will be required, indicating that the 40 hours may be distributed across various locations or involve extended periods on-site.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is substantial, reflecting the senior level of the position, the complexity of the projects managed, and the high demand for experienced Design-Build professionals. The inclusion of an ESOP is a significant benefit, offering employees a direct stake in the company's success. The salary estimate is based on the provided range and is considered competitive for a Senior Design-Build Design Manager role in major US metropolitan areas like New York, Boston, Orlando, Troy, and Akron, considering the high cost of living and market demand for specialized engineering leadership.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering, Construction, and Infrastructure Development. Parsons is a global leader in providing technical and engineering services for critical infrastructure, including transportation, defense, and security sectors.

Company Size: Parsons Corporation is a large, publicly traded company, indicated by the broad salary range and extensive benefits package, likely employing thousands of professionals globally. This size suggests a structured environment with established processes and significant career advancement potential.

Founded: Founded over 75 (now stated as over 80) years ago, Parsons has a long-standing history and deep expertise in delivering complex infrastructure projects worldwide. This longevity points to a stable, experienced organization with a proven track record and a culture built on enduring principles of engineering excellence and client service.

Team Structure:

• This role is part of the Critical Infrastructure team, focusing on essential public and private sector projects.

• The Senior Design-Build Design Manager will likely lead multidisciplinary teams comprising civil engineers, structural engineers, transportation planners, environmental specialists, construction managers, and other technical professionals.

• The reporting structure is not explicitly detailed but can be inferred to involve reporting to senior leadership within the Critical Infrastructure division or a Program Director, while managing project teams directly.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Parsons emphasizes leveraging data and analytics to inform project strategies, optimize designs, and manage performance.

• Agile & Adaptive Project Management: While managing large projects, the company culture promotes agility and adaptability to navigate complex challenges and evolving project requirements.

• Collaborative Problem-Solving: The company culture encourages teamwork and open communication to address challenges and innovate solutions for infrastructure development.

• Focus on Sustainability & Resiliency: A key aspect of their methodology involves designing projects that enhance community sustainability and resilience against environmental and societal challenges.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Parsons' emphasis on "imagining next" and "endless opportunities" suggests a forward-thinking culture that values innovation and employee growth. The company's long history and global presence indicate a stable yet dynamic environment where experienced professionals can make a significant impact on major infrastructure projects.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a Senior Leadership position within the operations and engineering management domain. It signifies a transition from managing individual projects to potentially overseeing multiple large programs or a significant portfolio of design-build work. The responsibilities include not only technical oversight but also strategic business development, commercial oversight, and significant team leadership.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Design-Build Design Manager will likely report to a Director or Vice President of Design-Build within the Critical Infrastructure sector. They, in turn, will manage and direct teams of engineers, designers, and project managers dedicated to specific design-build projects. This structure facilitates direct influence on project execution and strategy while providing a clear path for upward mobility.

Operations Impact: The operations impact of this role is substantial. By successfully delivering large-scale transportation infrastructure projects, the Senior Design-Build Design Manager directly contributes to:

• Economic Growth: Facilitating commerce and development through improved transportation networks.

• Community Enhancement: Improving quality of life, mobility, and safety for citizens.

• Company Revenue & Profitability: Directly impacting Parsons' financial performance through successful project execution and pursuit wins.

• Sustainability & Resiliency: Implementing designs that address environmental concerns and enhance infrastructure robustness.

Growth Opportunities:

• Portfolio Management: Progress to managing larger, more complex programs or an entire portfolio of Design-Build projects across a region or nationally.

• Executive Leadership: Advance into executive roles such as Vice President or Sector Lead within Parsons' infrastructure divisions.

• Business Development Leadership: Transition into a role focused on strategic business development, client acquisition, and market expansion for the Design-Build sector.

• Specialized Expertise: Develop deeper expertise in niche areas like intelligent transportation systems (ITS), sustainable infrastructure, or advanced construction technologies.

• Mentorship & Training: Take on a lead role in mentoring junior engineers and managers, shaping the next generation of leaders within Parsons.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a significant step for seasoned engineering and project management professionals. The combination of technical leadership, strategic business input, and direct impact on critical infrastructure projects offers a clear trajectory for career advancement within a leading global engineering firm.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This role offers a hybrid work arrangement, with the potential for remote work ("Remote work options available") combined with necessary travel to job sites. While specific office locations are listed (New York, Boston, Akron, Troy, Orlando), the expectation is that the manager will be mobile, spending time at project sites, client offices, and potentially a designated Parsons office.

Office Location(s): The primary locations mentioned are New York, NY; Boston, MA; Akron, OH; Troy, MI; and Orlando, FL. This suggests that the candidate could be based in or near one of these major hubs, with travel expected to project locations within North America.

Workspace Context:

• Dynamic & Mobile: The work environment is not confined to a single desk; it involves active engagement at project sites, client meetings, and potentially remote collaboration.

• Collaborative Hubs: When not on-site, the candidate will likely utilize Parsons' office spaces for team meetings, planning sessions, and collaborative work, fostering interaction with colleagues.

• Technology-Enabled: Expect access to advanced project management software, communication tools, and engineering design platforms necessary for managing complex infrastructure projects.

• High-Paced & Demanding: The environment is typical of large infrastructure projects—fast-paced, requiring quick decision-making, and focused on meeting demanding timelines and performance metrics.

Work Schedule: The standard is a 40-hour workweek, but given the nature of large infrastructure projects and the requirement for site travel, extended hours or weekend work may be necessary during critical project phases. The "flexible work schedules" benefit suggests some latitude in managing personal time around project demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The remote option is a significant perk, but candidates must be prepared for substantial travel to project sites. This role demands adaptability and a willingness to operate effectively in diverse settings, from remote offices to active construction zones.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess alignment with the core requirements (PE, 20+ years, Design-Build experience).

• Technical & Behavioral Interview: Likely a discussion focused on your experience managing large-scale Design-Build projects, technical expertise in roadway/bridge design, leadership style, and problem-solving capabilities. Expect questions about how you've handled scope disputes, commercial challenges, and team dynamics.

• Portfolio Presentation: A dedicated session where you will present selected case studies from your portfolio. This is your opportunity to demonstrate your impact, methodologies, and strategic thinking. Be prepared to discuss project challenges, your specific contributions, and quantifiable results.

• Stakeholder/Leadership Interview: An interview with senior management or potential peers to assess cultural fit, strategic alignment, and overall leadership potential. They will gauge your understanding of Parsons' business and your vision for contributing to their goals.

• Final Offer: Following successful interviews and reference checks.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Design-Build: Curate examples that specifically highlight your role and successes in Design-Build environments. Emphasize how you managed the integration of design and construction.

• Quantify Impact: For each case study, clearly state the project value, your contribution to its commercial success (e.g., budget adherence, profitability, change order management), and any improvements in schedule or efficiency. Use metrics whenever possible.

• Illustrate Leadership: Showcase instances where you effectively led multidisciplinary teams, managed conflicts, and fostered a collaborative, high-performance culture.

• Demonstrate Strategic Thinking: Explain your approach to proposal development, winning strategies, and how you managed scope to meet client objectives and business goals.

• Conciseness & Clarity: Prepare a presentation that is well-structured, easy to follow, and highlights key achievements without unnecessary detail. Aim for 15-20 minutes of presentation, leaving ample time for Q&A.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Be ready for hypothetical questions such as: "How would you approach a major scope change request late in the design phase of a $1B highway project?" or "Describe a time you had to resolve a significant conflict between design and construction teams."

• Commercial Acumen Scenarios: Prepare to discuss how you would manage project profitability, negotiate contract terms, or handle unforeseen cost overruns.

• Leadership Scenarios: Think about examples of how you have mentored team members, driven innovation, or managed underperforming team members.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio review is a critical component for this role. Candidates should prepare to elaborate on their experience with specific examples that demonstrate their ability to manage complex, high-value Design-Build projects from a technical, commercial, and leadership perspective.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency with industry-leading platforms such as Primavera P6, Microsoft Project, or similar for large-scale project scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking.

• Design & Engineering Software: Familiarity with the outputs and integration points of major CAD/BIM software (e.g., Autodesk Civil 3D, Bentley MicroStation, Revit) is essential for understanding design deliverables and managing design teams.

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

• Document Management Systems: Knowledge of systems for managing vast amounts of project documentation, drawings, and specifications.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Financial Management Tools: Experience with ERP systems or specialized project accounting software for budget tracking, cost control, and financial reporting.

• Performance Dashboards: Ability to interpret and utilize dashboards for project performance monitoring (e.g., schedule adherence, budget variance, risk status).

CRM & Automation:

• CRM (for Business Development): While not a primary sales role, understanding how CRM systems are used in client management and pursuit tracking would be beneficial.

• Workflow Automation Tools: Awareness of how automation can streamline processes in design review, RFI management, or submittal processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific software is not listed, the role demands familiarity with tools commonly used in large-scale infrastructure project management, design coordination, and financial oversight. The emphasis on managing projects over $1 billion necessitates robust project management and financial tracking capabilities.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity & Ethics: A foundational value, essential for managing large contracts and public trust in infrastructure projects.

• Safety First: Paramount in construction and infrastructure; a commitment to zero harm and robust safety protocols.

• Excellence & Quality: Driving for high standards in design, engineering, and construction to deliver durable and effective infrastructure.

• Innovation & Adaptability: Encouraging new approaches to design and construction to meet evolving challenges and client needs.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a cooperative environment where diverse expertise is leveraged for optimal project outcomes.

• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and meeting client needs, building long-term partnerships.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The culture emphasizes breaking down silos between engineering design, construction, procurement, and project controls to ensure seamless project execution.

• Open Communication: Encouraging direct and transparent communication across all levels and disciplines to address issues proactively.

• Performance-Oriented: A results-driven approach where team members are empowered to take ownership and contribute to achieving project milestones and commercial objectives.

• Knowledge Sharing: A culture that values sharing lessons learned and best practices across projects and teams to continuously improve performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: Parsons' stated values like "imagining next," "valuing people," and "embracing agility" suggest a dynamic and employee-centric culture. For this role, a candidate who embodies a strong ethical compass, a commitment to safety, and a collaborative, results-oriented approach will thrive.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Multi-Billion Dollar Projects: The sheer scale of projects presents significant complexity in coordination, risk management, and stakeholder alignment.

• Balancing Design Excellence with Commercial Demands: Ensuring high-quality engineering solutions while meeting aggressive budgets and timelines requires adept negotiation and strategic decision-making.

• Navigating Regulatory Environments: Large infrastructure projects are subject to extensive local, state, and federal regulations, requiring diligent compliance and stakeholder engagement.

• Geographically Dispersed Teams & Projects: Managing teams and projects spread across different states or even countries demands strong remote leadership and communication skills.

• Technological Evolution: Keeping pace with advancements in design software, construction methods, and sustainable technologies to ensure projects are future-proof.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Program Management: Opportunities to lead increasingly complex and larger programs, developing strategic oversight capabilities.

• Executive Development Programs: Formal training and mentorship focused on leadership, financial management, and strategic planning at the executive level.

• Industry Conferences & Certifications: Support for attending key industry events (e.g., DBIA, ASCE) and obtaining advanced certifications in project management or specialized engineering fields.

• Cross-Sector Exposure: Potential to work on projects in different infrastructure sectors (e.g., transportation, water, energy) to broaden experience.

• Mentorship: Access to senior leaders within Parsons for guidance on career progression and leadership development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are inherent to managing mega-projects in the infrastructure sector. Successfully navigating these will provide invaluable experience and direct pathways for significant career growth within Parsons.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to developing a winning proposal strategy for a complex Design-Build transportation project. What key elements do you focus on?" (Preparation: Focus on market analysis, client needs, competitive positioning, team strengths, and risk assessment.)

• "How do you ensure effective collaboration and communication across diverse, multidisciplinary teams on projects valued over $1 billion, especially when some team members are remote?" (Preparation: Detail your communication protocols, conflict resolution strategies, and use of collaboration tools.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Based on what you know about Parsons, how do you see your leadership style and experience contributing to our Critical Infrastructure team and company culture?" (Preparation: Research Parsons' mission, values, recent projects, and leadership vision. Connect your experience to their stated goals.)

• "How do you foster a culture of safety and excellence within your project teams?" (Preparation: Discuss your proactive safety initiatives, quality assurance processes, and methods for motivating teams towards high performance.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each case study, clearly articulate the project's challenge, your role and responsibilities, the strategies you implemented (design, commercial, team management), the obstacles you overcame, and the quantifiable results achieved (e.g., cost savings, schedule improvements, safety records, client satisfaction).

• Highlight Design-Build Expertise: Emphasize your specific contributions to integrating design and construction, managing interface risks, and optimizing the overall project delivery process.

• Showcase Leadership in Action: Use specific examples to illustrate how you led, mentored, and motivated teams, resolved conflicts, and fostered a collaborative environment.

• Prepare for Deep Dives: Be ready to answer detailed questions about any aspect of your presented projects, including technical challenges, contractual issues, financial performance, and stakeholder management.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong understanding of Design-Build methodologies, large-scale project management, commercial acumen, and proven leadership capabilities. The ability to articulate complex situations with clear, data-driven outcomes will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the Parsons Corporation careers portal at https://parsons.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/Search/job/US---NY-New-York/SENIOR-DESIGN-BUILD-DESIGN-MANAGER_R179651.

• Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume to prominently feature your experience in Design-Build project management, large-scale infrastructure projects (especially roads and bridges), your PE license, and your success in leading multidisciplinary teams and managing commercial performance. Use keywords from the job description naturally.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Compile your Design-Build project case studies, focusing on quantifiable achievements, your specific role, and the impact you made. Ensure your portfolio clearly demonstrates your expertise in scope management, commercial oversight, and team leadership.

• Research Parsons: Thoroughly research Parsons Corporation, their recent projects (especially in the Critical Infrastructure and transportation sectors), their company values, and their leadership. Understand their strategic direction and how your experience aligns.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare to articulate your experience using the STAR method for behavioral questions and be ready to discuss your approach to strategic, commercial, and leadership challenges common in large-scale Design-Build projects. Practice presenting your portfolio highlights.

⚠️ 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.