Senior Design Manager A/E

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Design Manager A/E

Company: ENGICON CM

Location: Los Angeles, CA

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Operations - Design Management / Capital Projects

Date Posted: 2026-08-12

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Strategic oversight and management of complex architectural and engineering (A/E) design processes, with a strong emphasis on seismic, critical repair, and retrofit projects.

• Leadership and supervision of multidisciplinary design teams, fostering collaboration and ensuring adherence to project objectives and quality standards.

• Development and execution of robust design review processes to guarantee compliance with programmatic, budgetary, environmental, and legal requirements.

• Coordination with external architects, consultants, and internal stakeholders to drive timely project completion and deliver maximum value.

• Ensuring all new and modernized structures meet stringent educational, building, and District standards through meticulous design process management.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within operations, focusing on the strategic management of design lifecycles for capital projects, particularly those involving complex structural and repair work. The "A/E" designation signifies a strong emphasis on the integration of Architectural and Engineering disciplines.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Manage multiple capital projects, with a specific focus on seismic, critical repair, and retrofit initiatives, ensuring all design aspects align with project scope and objectives.

• Lead, mentor, and supervise a team of design professionals, including architects and engineers, throughout the entire design review and execution lifecycle.

• Develop and implement comprehensive design management strategies for A&E services, ensuring alignment with functional programs, budgetary constraints, environmental regulations, and legal mandates.

• Oversee the selection process for architectural firms, evaluating qualifications and ensuring alignment with performance standards and project-specific needs.

• Provide clear, consistent direction to architectural and engineering consultants regarding project goals, objectives, standards, site considerations, schedules, and budgets.

• Establish and maintain an efficient design review process to confirm that all designs meet the overarching goals and objectives for each project, delivering optimal value and long-term utility.

• Monitor project planning and design status, generating detailed reports on findings, recommendations, and progress updates for senior leadership.

• Review and approve design changes, meticulously assessing their impact on project budgets and timelines to maintain financial control.

• Ensure the functional needs of the District, local community, and environment are met by designs that provide maximum value for allocated budgets and are enduring in their utility.

• Perform other assigned duties to support the operational efficiency and strategic objectives of the design management department.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical oversight, team leadership, and strategic project management, crucial for operations roles managing complex construction and renovation projects. The emphasis on "District standards" suggests a public sector or large institutional client.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Graduation from a recognized college or university with a bachelor's degree in architecture or engineering.

• A master's degree in architecture or engineering is preferred, indicating a strong preference for advanced academic qualifications in relevant technical fields. Experience:

• A minimum of 14 years of full-time, paid professional experience managing facilities design, or the planning and coordination of capital projects. This experience must encompass overall design, contract administration, cost estimating, and scheduling activities.

• At least 4 years of this experience must specifically involve the design, planning, and construction of educational facilities or similar public agency projects, demonstrating specialized knowledge in institutional environments. Required Skills:

• Project Management: Proven ability to manage multiple complex projects from conception through completion, with a strong emphasis on design phases.

• Seismic Design & Retrofit: Deep understanding and experience managing projects involving seismic assessments, retrofitting, and critical structural repairs.

• Design Review & Coordination: Expertise in overseeing and facilitating the architectural and engineering design review process, ensuring technical accuracy and compliance.

• Team Leadership & Supervision: Demonstrated ability to manage, mentor, and lead teams of design professionals, fostering a collaborative and productive work environment.

• Budget Management: Strong financial acumen to oversee project budgets, review design changes, and ensure cost-effectiveness.

• Contract Administration: Experience in managing contracts with external architectural and engineering firms, ensuring performance and compliance.

• Cost Estimating & Scheduling: Proficiency in developing and managing project cost estimates and detailed schedules.

• Compliance & Standards Adherence: Thorough knowledge of building codes, regulatory requirements, and institutional design standards, particularly for educational facilities.

• Excellent Written and Verbal Communication Skills: Ability to articulate complex technical information clearly to diverse stakeholders, including consultants, team members, and administrators.

• Strategic Planning: Capacity to develop and implement effective design management strategies aligned with organizational goals.

Preferred Skills:

• Professional Registration: A valid Certificate of Registration as an Architect by the California State Architectural Board or Professional Engineer by the State Board for Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors.

• Public Agency/Educational Facility Experience: Extensive background in managing projects within public sector or educational institutions, understanding their unique operational and regulatory landscapes.

• Risk Management: Experience in identifying and mitigating design-related risks.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience requirements are substantial, indicating a senior-level role focused on high-impact capital projects. The preference for licensed professionals underscores the technical depth required. The emphasis on "public agencies" and "educational facilities" points towards operations within a governmental or institutional framework, requiring specific compliance and stakeholder management skills.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Management Case Studies: Detailed examples of successfully managed capital projects, showcasing the full lifecycle from planning and design through to completion, with specific emphasis on seismic and critical repair projects.

• Design Process Documentation: Evidence of established and effective design review processes, including workflow diagrams, approval matrices, and quality control measures.

• Team Leadership Examples: Documentation or descriptions of how teams were structured, managed, and motivated to achieve project objectives.

• Budget & Schedule Management: Demonstrations of how budgets were controlled, cost estimates were developed, and schedules were managed, including examples of managing design changes and their impact.

• Compliance & Standards Adherence: Case studies highlighting successful navigation of regulatory requirements, building codes, and institutional standards.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Showcase experience in designing and optimizing workflows for A&E services, from initial concept to final design approval.

• Implementation & Automation: While not explicitly stated, demonstrate an understanding of how design processes can be streamlined, potentially through technology or improved collaboration, to enhance efficiency.

• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Provide examples of how the success of design processes was measured and analyzed, focusing on metrics related to budget adherence, schedule attainment, and quality outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role of this seniority, a portfolio is critical. It should not just list projects but detail the candidate's specific role, the methodologies used, the challenges overcome, and the quantifiable results achieved, particularly concerning process efficiency and project success.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $185,000 - $205,000 USD per year.

This range is based on the provided salary data for a Senior Design Manager in Los Angeles, CA, reflecting the senior level of experience required (14+ years), specialized skills in seismic and critical repair projects, and the high cost of living in the Los Angeles metropolitan area. Industry benchmarks for similar roles in major metropolitan areas often fall within this bracket, considering the leadership responsibilities and technical expertise demanded.

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching: A retirement savings plan with employer contributions, providing financial security.

• Dental insurance: Comprehensive dental coverage for employees and potentially their dependents.

• Employee discounts: Special offers or reduced prices on company products or services, or through partnerships.

• Health insurance: Robust medical coverage, including health, prescription drug, and potentially vision benefits.

• Paid time off: Generous leave policies, including vacation, sick days, and holidays, supporting work-life balance.

• Training & development: Opportunities for continuous learning, skill enhancement, and professional growth through courses, workshops, or certifications.

• Vision insurance: Coverage for eye care services and eyewear.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week.

This is a standard full-time workweek. Given the project management and leadership nature of the role, there may be expectations for occasional flexibility to meet critical project deadlines or address urgent issues, particularly during intense design phases or problem-solving scenarios.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is competitive for a senior-level design management position in a high-cost-of-living area like Los Angeles. The benefits package is comprehensive, typical for established organizations seeking to attract and retain experienced talent. The "Training & development" benefit is particularly relevant for operations professionals looking to stay current with industry advancements.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction & Engineering Management (A/E Services)

ENGICON CM operates within the construction and engineering management sector, specializing in providing A/E services. This industry is characterized by project-driven work, a strong emphasis on technical expertise, safety, quality, and adherence to strict timelines and budgets. Collaboration with various stakeholders, including clients, architects, engineers, contractors, and regulatory bodies, is fundamental.

Company Size: Not explicitly stated, but the nature of managing multiple large-scale projects suggests a well-established organization with significant operational capacity.

Founded: Information not provided. However, the mention of "District’s standards" and managing "capital projects" implies a history of working with large, often public or institutional, entities.

Team Structure:

• Operations Team: This role likely sits within a larger operations or project management division responsible for capital improvements. The team would include other design managers, project managers, construction managers, and support staff.

• Reporting Structure: The Senior Design Manager will likely report to a Director of Design, VP of Operations, or a similar senior leadership role within ENGICON CM. They will, in turn, supervise a team of architects, engineers, and design coordinators.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: The role necessitates extensive collaboration with internal departments (e.g., project controls, procurement, legal) and external partners (architects, engineers, consultants, clients, regulatory agencies).

Methodology:

• Data Analysis & Insights: Design decisions and project strategies are informed by data related to project scope, budget, schedule, seismic risks, and regulatory requirements.

• Workflow Planning & Optimization: Emphasis on establishing and refining efficient processes for design review, consultant selection, and project coordination to ensure timely and cost-effective delivery.

• Automation & Efficiency: While not explicitly detailed, modern A&E management often involves leveraging technology for project management, design collaboration (BIM), and communication to improve efficiency and reduce errors.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on A/E services for capital projects, especially seismic and repair work, suggests a specialized and technically demanding operational environment. The "District's standards" likely refer to a specific client, such as the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD), given the location and job description context.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior Management / Principal Contributor.

This role represents a senior leadership position within the operations of a design management firm. It requires a high degree of autonomy, strategic thinking, and the ability to manage complex, high-stakes projects and teams. The focus is on ensuring the successful execution of design phases for critical infrastructure and facilities.

Reporting Structure:

The Senior Design Manager will report to a senior executive (e.g., Director of Design, VP of Operations) and will manage a team of architects, engineers, and design coordinators. This structure allows for strategic direction from leadership while empowering the manager to execute day-to-day operations and team supervision.

Operations Impact:

The operations managed by this role directly impact the structural integrity, functionality, and safety of critical facilities. Successful design management leads to projects that are completed on time and within budget, ensuring the client's operational needs are met and public safety is paramount. This role is crucial for mitigating risks associated with aging infrastructure and seismic vulnerabilities.

Growth Opportunities:

• Director-Level Roles: Progression to Director of Design, Director of Capital Projects, or VP of Operations, overseeing larger portfolios and strategic initiatives.

• Specialized Expertise Development: Deepening expertise in specific areas like seismic retrofitting, sustainable design, or advanced project management methodologies, potentially leading to consulting roles or niche leadership positions.

• Leadership Development: Opportunities to mentor junior staff, lead cross-functional initiatives, and contribute to the strategic direction of the company's design management services.

• Executive Management: For exceptional performers, potential pathways into broader executive management roles within the construction or engineering sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: This is a career-defining role for experienced design professionals, offering significant responsibility and the opportunity to shape critical infrastructure. The growth potential is substantial, moving from managing projects to managing entire departments or strategic business units.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Primarily an office-based role, with significant on-site project visits.

The position is described as "On-site," implying a primary location at the company's offices in Los Angeles, CA. However, the nature of managing capital projects necessitates frequent site visits to project locations for inspections, meetings with contractors, and progress assessments.

Office Location(s): Los Angeles, California.

The specific office location in Los Angeles (zip code 90017) is in a central business district, likely offering good accessibility via public transport and proximity to other professional services. Site visits will occur at various project locations throughout the Los Angeles area and potentially surrounding regions.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The office setting will likely feature open-plan areas or shared workspaces to facilitate collaboration among design teams, project managers, and other operational staff.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to industry-standard design software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit, BIM tools), project management platforms, and communication tools will be essential.

• Team Interaction: Frequent interaction with direct reports, peers in project management, and senior leadership is expected, fostering a dynamic and communicative work environment. The role also involves significant interaction with external consultants and client representatives.

Work Schedule:

Standard 40-hour workweek, but with the expectation of flexibility to meet project demands. This may include occasional extended hours, weekend work, or travel to project sites, especially during critical design phases or when addressing urgent issues. The ability to manage one's time effectively to balance office duties with site visits is crucial.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "On-site" designation emphasizes the need for physical presence, balancing office-based strategic work with essential field coordination. This hybrid approach is common in construction and engineering operations.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

The interview process for a Senior Design Manager role typically involves multiple stages designed to assess technical expertise, leadership capabilities, strategic thinking, and cultural fit.

1. Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to ensure minimum qualifications are met. This may be followed by a brief phone call with HR or a recruiter to discuss your background and interest.

2. Hiring Manager Interview: A more in-depth discussion with the direct hiring manager (e.g., Director of Design, VP of Operations). This interview will focus on your experience in managing complex projects, leading teams, and your understanding of seismic and critical repair projects.

3. Technical/Panel Interview: You may be interviewed by a panel of peers, including other senior design managers, project managers, or subject matter experts. This stage will delve into your technical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and design methodologies.

4. Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where you will present your portfolio, showcasing key projects, your role, challenges faced, and quantifiable results. This is a critical component for demonstrating your capabilities.

5. Executive Interview: An interview with a senior executive (e.g., CEO, COO, President) to assess your strategic alignment with the company's vision, leadership potential, and overall fit within the organization.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each project, clearly outline the objective, your specific role and responsibilities, the challenges encountered (e.g., complex design issues, budget constraints, regulatory hurdles), the solutions implemented, and the quantifiable outcomes (e.g., cost savings, schedule adherence, safety improvements, successful seismic mitigation).

• Highlight Operations & Process Focus: Emphasize how you managed the design process, including team coordination, workflow optimization, risk mitigation, and compliance assurance. Use diagrams or flowcharts if helpful.

• Quantify Results: Whenever possible, use numbers and metrics to demonstrate the impact of your work. For example, "Managed a $50M retrofit project, completing design 10% under budget and 3 months ahead of schedule."

• Tailor to the Role: Focus on projects that are most relevant to seismic, critical repair, and educational facilities design.

• Be Prepared to Discuss Challenges: Be ready to discuss difficult situations and how you navigated them, demonstrating problem-solving skills and resilience.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Be prepared for questions that present hypothetical project scenarios (e.g., "How would you handle a significant design change request mid-project that impacts the budget?"). Focus your answers on your structured approach, problem-solving methodology, and communication strategy.

• Process Improvement: You might be asked to outline how you would improve the current design review process for a specific type of project. Focus on efficiency, clarity, and risk reduction.

• Leadership Scenarios: Prepare to discuss how you motivate teams, resolve conflicts, and foster a collaborative environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio review is paramount. Candidates should prepare detailed case studies that clearly articulate their operational approach to design management, emphasizing process, problem-solving, and measurable impact.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency with platforms like Procore, Autodesk Construction Cloud, Oracle

Aconex, or similar enterprise-level project management systems is essential for managing project timelines, documentation, and communication.

• Design Software (Familiarity): While not a hands-on design role, a strong understanding of architectural and engineering design software is crucial. This includes:

  • CAD Software: AutoCAD (for 2D drafting).
  • BIM Software: Revit, ArchiCAD (for Building Information Modeling, enabling 3D design and collaboration).

• Collaboration Platforms: Tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, Asana, or Trello for team communication, task management, and document sharing.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Budgeting & Cost Management Software: Experience with financial management tools or modules within project management systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle Financials, specialized cost estimating software) for tracking project expenditures and forecasts.

• Reporting Tools: Ability to generate comprehensive reports using Microsoft Excel, Tableau, Power BI, or built-in reporting features of project management software to track KPIs, budget status, and project progress.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM (Client Relationship Management): While primarily client-facing, familiarity with CRM systems used by ENGICON CM to manage client interactions, proposals, and project pipelines may be beneficial.

• Document Management Systems: Experience with secure, centralized systems for storing and retrieving project documents, drawings, and specifications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack emphasizes tools used for managing complex projects, facilitating collaboration, and ensuring compliance. While direct design work is not expected, a strong understanding of the tools used by architects and engineers is critical for effective management.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Execution: A commitment to delivering high-quality design management services, ensuring projects meet stringent technical, safety, and aesthetic standards.

• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding ethical standards in all dealings and taking ownership of project outcomes, from planning to completion.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive environment where diverse teams work together effectively, sharing knowledge and expertise to achieve common goals.

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: Encouraging the adoption of new technologies and methodologies to enhance design processes, improve efficiency, and deliver greater value.

• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and meeting client needs, ensuring project success aligns with their strategic objectives.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The role requires seamless collaboration with internal departments and external partners, ensuring all stakeholders are aligned on project goals and progress.

• Process Review & Feedback: An open culture for reviewing design processes, soliciting feedback from team members and consultants, and implementing improvements to enhance efficiency and quality.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise across project teams and the wider organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture likely values a combination of technical rigor, strong project execution, and collaborative problem-solving, essential for managing complex construction and design operations.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Complex Technical Requirements: Overseeing design for seismic retrofits and critical repairs involves navigating intricate engineering challenges and stringent safety regulations.

• Balancing Competing Priorities: Juggling multiple projects simultaneously, each with unique scopes, budgets, schedules, and stakeholder expectations.

• Navigating Regulatory Landscapes: Ensuring full compliance with local, state, and federal building codes, as well as specific institutional requirements.

• Managing Stakeholder Expectations: Effectively communicating with diverse groups, including clients, consultants, internal teams, and potentially community members, to ensure alignment and manage expectations.

• Adapting to Evolving Technologies: Staying abreast of advancements in design software, BIM, and construction technologies to maintain efficiency and competitive advantage.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Seismic Engineering & Retrofit Techniques: Opportunities to deepen knowledge in specialized areas of structural engineering and seismic design through workshops, seminars, and industry certifications.

• Project Management Certifications: Pursuing or maintaining certifications such as PMP (Project Management Professional) or specific construction management credentials.

• Leadership & Management Training: Access to programs focused on enhancing leadership skills, team management, strategic planning, and financial acumen.

• Industry Conferences & Forums: Attending key industry events to network, learn about emerging trends, and gain insights into best practices in A&E management and construction.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant opportunities for professional development in specialized technical fields and leadership, preparing individuals for senior executive roles in the construction and engineering management industry.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to managing a large-scale seismic retrofit project from the design phase through to construction handover. What are the key operational considerations?"

  • Preparation: Focus on your structured project management methodology, risk mitigation strategies for seismic work, team coordination, and stakeholder communication.

• "How do you ensure that design plans for educational facilities not only meet building standards but also support the educational mission and community needs?"

  • Preparation: Discuss your process for understanding user requirements, integrating functional program needs with design, and your approach to stakeholder engagement with educational administrators and community representatives.

• "Imagine a critical design change is proposed mid-project that will significantly impact the budget. How would you evaluate this change, communicate its implications, and manage the decision-making process?"

  • Preparation: Outline your process for impact analysis (cost, schedule, scope), your communication strategy to stakeholders, and your approach to facilitating informed decision-making. Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about ENGICON CM and our work in capital projects, particularly regarding seismic and repair initiatives?"

  • Preparation: Thoroughly research ENGICON CM's website, recent projects, and any public statements. Understand their specialization and identify projects similar to those described in the job posting.

• "How do you foster a collaborative environment among architects, engineers, and project teams, especially when managing diverse personalities and technical expertise?"

  • Preparation: Discuss your leadership style, conflict resolution strategies, and methods for promoting open communication and shared goals.

• "How do you measure the success of your design management operations beyond just budget and schedule adherence?"

  • Preparation: Discuss metrics related to design quality, compliance, stakeholder satisfaction, risk reduction, and long-term facility performance. Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling with Data: For each case study, weave a narrative that highlights the challenge, your strategic approach, the operational steps taken, and the quantifiable results.

• Visual Aids: Use charts, diagrams, and high-quality images of projects to make your presentation engaging and impactful.

• Focus on Process: Clearly explain how you managed the design process, not just what was designed. Detail your workflow, decision-making criteria, and team management techniques.

• Demonstrate ROI: Articulate the return on investment (ROI) for your projects, whether through cost savings, improved facility performance, enhanced safety, or extended asset life.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a deep understanding of operations management principles applied to complex A/E design projects, with a strong emphasis on risk, compliance, and value delivery.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the application link provided by ENGICON CM.

• Portfolio Customization: Curate your portfolio to prominently feature projects involving seismic retrofits, critical repairs, and facilities design, ideally within public or educational sectors. Ensure each case study clearly outlines your role, the processes you managed, challenges overcome, and quantifiable outcomes.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight your 14+ years of relevant experience, specifically calling out your expertise in facilities design, capital project management, contract administration, cost estimating, and scheduling. Integrate keywords such as "seismic retrofit," "design review," "compliance," and "public agency projects."

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your project management methodologies, leadership approach, and problem-solving skills using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Prepare to discuss specific examples from your portfolio that demonstrate your operational efficiency and impact.

• Company Research: Gain a thorough understanding of ENGICON CM's mission, values, and recent projects. Be prepared to discuss how your operational expertise aligns with their focus on capital projects and A/E services.

⚠️ 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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