Senior Design Manager A/E

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Design Manager A/E Services

Company: O2EPCM, Inc. dba O2 Engineering, Projects & Construction Management

Location: Los Angeles, California, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Engineering & Design Management / Capital Projects

Date Posted: 2026-08-13T18:14:04

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage multiple complex A/E (Architectural/Engineering) services projects, with a strong focus on seismic, critical repair, and retrofit initiatives within the public sector.

• Direct and mentor a team of design professionals and consultants to ensure the successful execution of design plans, adhering strictly to functional, budgetary, environmental, and legal requirements.

• Oversee the entire design process for capital projects, ensuring rigorous compliance with organizational standards, educational facility requirements, and building codes.

• Drive the selection and management of architectural firms, providing clear direction on project goals, standards, schedules, and budgets to maximize value and ensure enduring, functional solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a Senior Design Manager within the A/E services domain, specifically for a firm that contracts with government agencies, utility companies, and private clients. The emphasis on seismic, critical repair, and retrofit projects, alongside managing design professionals and ensuring compliance with specific client standards (like educational facilities), indicates a highly specialized and demanding management position requiring a deep understanding of public sector capital project lifecycles and risk management. The requirement for Southern California residency further underscores the on-site and localized nature of the role.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Spearhead the management of multiple capital projects, with a specialized emphasis on seismic, critical repair, and retrofit initiatives, ensuring timely and budget-conscious completion.

• Supervise, guide, and develop a team of design professionals, consultants, and other technical staff through the comprehensive design review and approval process.

• Orchestrate the District’s A&E services design process, collaborating closely with Architects, consultants, and internal stakeholders to ensure designs align with functional program objectives, budgetary constraints, environmental regulations, and legal mandates.

• Oversee the building design lifecycle, ensuring strict adherence to the District’s established standards and guidelines for both new construction and modernization projects, meeting educational and building code requirements.

• Establish and meticulously follow a robust process for identifying, evaluating, and selecting architectural firms based on qualifications, proven performance, and suitability for specific project needs.

• Provide clear, consistent, and actionable direction to Architects regarding project goals, objectives, design standards, site constraints, schedules, and budgetary parameters.

• Implement and maintain an effective and efficient design review process to guarantee that all designs meet the overarching goals and objectives of each project, delivering maximum value for budgeted funds.

• Conduct detailed reviews of proposed design changes to ensure the project remains within its allocated budget and scope.

• Continuously monitor project planning and design status, providing regular reports on findings, recommendations, and project updates to senior leadership and stakeholders.

• Perform other assigned duties as necessary to support the successful delivery of A/E services and capital projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a heavy emphasis on process management, team leadership, and client-facing coordination within the context of large-scale capital projects. The repeated mention of "District" implies a significant contractual relationship with a specific public entity, likely the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) given the location and the mention of educational facilities. The role requires not just technical oversight but also strategic vendor management and financial stewardship.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture or Engineering from a recognized college or university is mandatory.

• A Master's degree in Architecture or Engineering is preferred, indicating a desire for advanced theoretical and practical knowledge. Experience:

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

• A minimum of 4 years of this required experience must be focused on the design, planning, and construction of educational facilities or similar public agency projects. Required Skills:

• Project Management: Proven ability to manage multiple complex capital projects from inception through completion, ensuring adherence to scope, schedule, and budget.

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

• Design Process Management: Expertise in overseeing and coordinating the entire A/E design lifecycle, including design reviews, compliance checks, and quality assurance.

• Team Leadership & Supervision: Demonstrated ability to lead, mentor, and manage teams of design professionals, consultants, and technical staff effectively.

• Vendor Management: Skilled in establishing processes for selecting and managing architectural and engineering firms, providing clear direction, and ensuring performance standards are met.

• Budgetary Control: Strong financial acumen to manage project budgets, review cost estimates, and control design-related expenditures.

• Contract Administration: Experience in managing contracts with external A&E firms, ensuring compliance with terms and conditions.

• Scheduling & Planning: Proficiency in developing and managing complex project schedules, coordinating with various stakeholders for timely delivery.

• Compliance & Standards Adherence: Thorough knowledge of building codes, regulatory requirements, and specific client standards (e.g., educational facility design guidelines).

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

Preferred Skills:

• Architectural Registration: A valid Certificate of Registration as an Architect by the California State Architectural Board.

• Professional Engineering License: A valid Professional Engineer license issued by the State Board for Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors.

• Public Agency Project Experience: Extensive experience with the specific protocols, procurement processes, and compliance requirements of public sector clients, particularly in California.

• Educational Facility Design: Specialized knowledge of the unique design considerations and functional requirements of educational institutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience requirements are substantial, indicating a need for seasoned professionals with a track record of successfully managing large-scale, complex public infrastructure projects. The preference for licensed Architects or Professional Engineers suggests that while management is key, a strong technical foundation is highly valued. The emphasis on Southern California residency and potentially specific client relationships (like LAUSD) means candidates with local market knowledge will have an advantage.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Management Case Studies: Detailed examples demonstrating the successful management of complex A/E projects, specifically highlighting seismic, repair, or retrofit initiatives. Focus on the scope, challenges, your role, solutions implemented, and project outcomes.

• Design Process Documentation: Evidence of established and utilized design review processes, including quality control measures, compliance checks, and stakeholder coordination workflows.

• Vendor Selection & Management Examples: Documentation or case studies illustrating the process of selecting and managing architectural and engineering firms, including proposal evaluation criteria and performance monitoring.

• Budget and Schedule Management: Demonstrations of proficiency in managing project budgets and schedules, showcasing instances where cost savings or schedule adherence was achieved through effective management.

• Compliance Tracking: Examples of how compliance with building codes, regulations, and client-specific standards was ensured throughout the design phase.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design and Optimization: Showcase your ability to design, document, and optimize workflows for A/E project management, from initial planning and firm selection through design completion and handover.

• Implementation and Automation: While not explicitly stated, demonstrate an understanding of how project management systems and digital tools can be leveraged for efficient workflow implementation, communication, and documentation.

• Measurement and Performance Analysis: Provide examples of how project performance (schedule, budget, quality, compliance) was measured, analyzed, and reported to stakeholders, including your methodology for identifying and addressing deviations.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the seniority and focus on managing complex public projects, a portfolio is crucial. It should not only list projects but also detail the processes used to manage them, especially concerning risk mitigation (seismic/repair), vendor selection, and compliance. The emphasis on A/E services means the portfolio should showcase an understanding of architectural and engineering design phases and deliverables.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $160,000 - $167,000 annually.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: 100% paid base coverage for Health, Vision, and Dental insurance for employees.

• Retirement Savings: 401(k) plan available.

• Paid Time Off: Generous provisions including Paid Holidays, Paid Sick Leave, and Paid Vacation.

• Employee Support: Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to provide confidential counseling and support services.

Working Hours: The role is advertised as full-time, which typically implies a 40-hour work week. Given the on-site requirement and the nature of managing critical projects, flexibility may be expected during peak periods or project milestones.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is specific and competitive for a senior management role in the Los Angeles area, particularly within the public sector A/E services domain. The benefits package is robust, with 100% paid health coverage being a significant perk. The "NO PER DIEM" and "NO relocation packages" indicate that candidates are expected to be local residents already established in Southern California. The working hours are standard full-time, but project demands may necessitate overtime.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering, Projects & Construction Management, Consulting Services for Government Agencies, Utility Companies, and Private Clients.

Company Size: O2EPCM, Inc. is described as a "prominent award-winning experienced firm." While an exact employee count isn't provided, the nature of their work (managing multiple large-scale projects for public entities) suggests a mid-to-large-sized organization with specialized teams.

Founded: Company founded date is not provided, but their description as "award-winning experienced firm" implies a significant history and established reputation.

Team Structure:

• Operations Team Aspect 1: The Design Manager will likely lead a dedicated team of design professionals (architects, engineers, CAD technicians) and project managers focused on A/E services. This team structure would support the various project management and design oversight duties.

• Operations Team Aspect 2: Reporting structure is likely to be to a Director of Projects or a VP of Operations, with the Senior Design Manager overseeing multiple Project Managers or Design Leads. Collaboration with procurement, legal, and finance departments is also probable.

• Operations Team Aspect 3: Cross-functional collaboration is paramount, involving close interaction with client representatives (e.g., school district administrators), external architectural and engineering consultants, contractors, and internal O2EPCM project teams.

Methodology:

• Data Analysis and Insights: Emphasis on data-driven decision-making for project selection, vendor evaluation, budget forecasting, and risk assessment, particularly concerning seismic and structural integrity.

• Workflow Planning and Optimization: A structured approach to managing the A/E design process, focusing on efficiency, compliance, and value delivery through optimized workflows and clear communication channels.

• Automation and Efficiency Practices: While not explicitly detailed, leveraging project management software, BIM (Building Information Modeling) tools, and digital communication platforms would be expected to drive efficiency in design management and reporting.

Company Website: https://o2epcm.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: O2EPCM positions itself as a comprehensive service provider for complex infrastructure projects, suggesting a culture that values technical expertise, project execution, and client satisfaction. The focus on public sector clients implies a need for adherence to stringent procurement, reporting, and compliance standards. The "award-winning" status suggests a commitment to quality and successful project delivery.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is clearly at a senior management level, requiring extensive experience (14+ years) and demonstrated leadership in managing complex A/E projects. It sits at the intersection of technical design oversight and strategic project execution for public sector infrastructure.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Design Manager will likely report to a higher-level executive within O2EPCM, such as a Director of Operations or a Vice President, and will be responsible for managing a team of Project Managers or Design Leads.

Operations Impact: The impact of this role is significant, directly influencing the successful planning, design, and execution of critical infrastructure projects. Effective management ensures projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards of quality and safety, thereby contributing to the operational effectiveness and safety of public facilities and client assets.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to move into higher executive roles within O2EPCM, such as Director of Project Management, VP of Operations, or a similar leadership position overseeing broader portfolios of capital projects.

• Specialization Expansion: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific areas like advanced seismic engineering, sustainable design integration, or large-scale urban infrastructure development.

• Client Relationship Management: Developing stronger relationships with key public sector clients, potentially leading to more strategic advisory roles or business development opportunities.

• Mentorship and Training: Opportunities to mentor junior project managers and design professionals, contributing to the overall talent development within the firm.

📝 Enhancement Note: This is a career-defining role for experienced A/E professionals. The path to growth involves demonstrating exceptional leadership, strategic thinking in project execution, and a deep understanding of the public sector client landscape. Success here positions individuals for significant leadership opportunities within O2EPCM or similar large-scale project management firms.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is explicitly stated as "ONSITE," meaning the work will be conducted from a physical office location in Los Angeles. This suggests a traditional office environment conducive to team collaboration and direct supervision.

Office Location(s): Los Angeles, California. The requirement for Southern California residency implies the office is strategically located to serve clients in this region.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role demands close collaboration with internal teams, external consultants, and client representatives. The office space likely facilitates team meetings, design review sessions, and stakeholder discussions.

• Operations Tools and Technology: Access to industry-standard project management software, CAD/BIM platforms, communication tools, and potentially specialized seismic analysis software would be expected.

• Operations Team Interaction: Frequent interaction with a team of design professionals, project managers, and administrative staff will be integral to the daily work.

Work Schedule: Standard full-time hours (likely 40 hours/week) are expected. However, the demanding nature of managing critical infrastructure projects, especially those involving seismic retrofits or urgent repairs, may require flexibility and potential overtime during critical project phases or in response to unforeseen issues.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature and specific location requirement are critical for candidates to consider. This is not a remote-friendly role, emphasizing the need for local presence and direct engagement within the Los Angeles project landscape.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or a recruiter will likely review applications for basic qualifications (experience, education, residency).

• Technical Interview: Expect an interview with senior management or a hiring manager focusing on your experience with A/E project management, seismic/retrofit projects, design review processes, and team leadership. Be prepared to discuss specific project examples.

• Portfolio Review: A significant part of the process will involve a detailed review of your submitted project list and potentially a more formal portfolio presentation. This is where you'll showcase your project management methodology, problem-solving skills, and impact.

• Behavioral/Cultural Fit Interview: Interviews may assess your communication style, collaboration approach, problem-solving under pressure, and alignment with O2EPCM's values and client-focused culture.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior executive to discuss strategic fit and long-term contribution.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Impact: For each project listed, clearly articulate your role, the project's value (dollar amount), the timeline, and the specific outcomes or challenges you successfully managed. Quantify achievements whenever possible (e.g., "reduced design review time by 15%," "managed a $50M seismic retrofit project").

• Process-Oriented: Don't just list projects; describe the processes you employed. How did you select firms? How did you manage design reviews? How did you ensure compliance? Use your portfolio to demonstrate your operational methodology.

• Highlight Key Skills: Ensure your portfolio explicitly showcases experience in seismic retrofits, critical repairs, public sector projects (especially educational facilities), budget management, and team leadership.

• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize projects that most closely align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description (e.g., managing multiple projects simultaneously, working with architects/engineers, ensuring compliance).

• Professional Presentation: Ensure your resume, project list, and any supporting documents are professionally formatted, error-free, and easy to read.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Be ready for questions like: "How would you handle a situation where an architectural firm is consistently missing deadlines?" or "Describe a time you had to manage conflicting stakeholder priorities on a design project."

• Technical Problem-Solving: Prepare to discuss how you would approach a complex design challenge, such as unexpected site conditions or significant budget overruns during the design phase.

• Leadership Scenarios: Be ready to discuss your leadership style, how you motivate teams, and how you handle performance issues within a design team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a "Project List with values, dates, and company of any projects worked" and "Certifications or Licenses obtained" suggests a rigorous vetting process. Candidates should meticulously prepare this documentation, ensuring it directly supports their qualifications for managing complex A/E projects in the public sector.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency with industry-standard platforms such as Procore, Oracle Aconex, Autodesk Construction Cloud (formerly BIM 360), Microsoft Project, or similar systems for managing project timelines, budgets, documentation, and communication.

• CAD/BIM Software: Familiarity with the output and capabilities of AutoCAD, Revit, and other architectural/engineering design software. While not necessarily a user, understanding their application and output is critical for design review.

• Collaboration Platforms: Tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for internal and external team communication and collaboration.

• Document Management Systems: Experience with systems for organizing, storing, and retrieving project-related documents, drawings, and specifications.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Financial Tracking Software: Familiarity with accounting or ERP systems for budget monitoring and cost control.

• Reporting Tools: Ability to generate comprehensive project status reports using standard office software (e.g., Microsoft Excel for data analysis, PowerPoint for presentations).

• Dashboarding Tools: While not explicitly stated, experience with creating or interpreting project dashboards for key performance indicators (KPIs) would be beneficial.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM (Customer Relationship Management): While O2EPCM is a service provider, a CRM might be used for managing client relationships and project pipelines.

• Workflow Automation: Understanding how to leverage project management software or other tools to automate repetitive tasks in design review, document routing, and reporting.

• Integration Tools: Awareness of how different software systems (e.g., PM software, financial systems) can be integrated to streamline data flow.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role requires a manager who is not only technically proficient in A/E services but also adept at leveraging modern project management technology to ensure efficiency, transparency, and control over complex capital projects. Familiarity with systems used in public sector projects is a significant plus.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Quality and Excellence: Demonstrated through "award-winning" status, implying a commitment to high standards in design and project execution.

• Client Focus: Serving government agencies, utility companies, and private clients requires a strong emphasis on understanding and meeting client needs, objectives, and compliance requirements.

• Integrity and Professionalism: Essential when dealing with public funds and critical infrastructure projects, ensuring ethical conduct and reliable service delivery.

• Efficiency and Value: A core responsibility is to "provide maximum value for dollars budgeted," indicating a culture that prioritizes cost-effectiveness and efficient resource allocation.

• Safety and Compliance: Paramount in construction and engineering, especially with seismic and critical repair projects, ensuring adherence to all safety regulations and building codes.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role necessitates seamless collaboration between internal design teams, project managers, procurement, legal, and external A&E consultants, contractors, and client representatives.

• Process-Driven Feedback: A culture likely encourages structured feedback loops within the design review process to identify issues early and ensure continuous improvement.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise across project teams, particularly concerning seismic and repair projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: O2EPCM's client base suggests a culture that values reliability, technical competence, and the ability to navigate complex regulatory environments. The emphasis on managing public funds means accountability and transparency are likely core tenets.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Multiple Complex Projects: Simultaneously overseeing diverse projects with varying scopes, stakeholders, and deadlines, each with unique technical challenges (e.g., seismic retrofits).

• Navigating Public Sector Procurement & Compliance: Adhering to strict governmental regulations, bidding processes, and reporting requirements that can be time-consuming and complex.

• Balancing Budget, Schedule, and Quality: Constantly managing trade-offs between cost, time, and the high-quality standards required for critical public infrastructure.

• Leading Diverse Teams & Consultants: Effectively managing and motivating a team of internal professionals and external consultants with potentially varying work styles and expertise.

• Staying Ahead of Evolving Standards: Keeping pace with changes in building codes, seismic regulations, and sustainable design practices.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Seismic Engineering/Retrofit Techniques: Deepening expertise through specialized training, workshops, or certifications related to seismic design and retrofitting.

• Public Sector Project Management Best Practices: Gaining further insights into the nuances of managing projects for government agencies and educational institutions.

• Leadership and Team Development: Opportunities for formal leadership training and mentorship programs within O2EPCM.

• Industry Conferences and Networking: Attending relevant A/E and construction management conferences to stay abreast of industry trends and network with peers.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges typical of large-scale public infrastructure management. However, these challenges are also fertile ground for professional growth, allowing the candidate to hone their expertise in critical areas and expand their leadership capabilities.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to selecting an architectural firm for a critical seismic retrofit project. What criteria are most important, and how do you ensure objectivity?" (Focus on process, vendor evaluation, risk mitigation).

• "How do you manage a situation where a key design consultant is falling behind schedule or exceeding budget? What steps do you take to course-correct?" (Highlight problem-solving, communication, and proactive management).

• "Walk me through a complex A/E project you managed from inception to completion. What were the biggest challenges, and how did you ensure it met all functional, budgetary, and compliance requirements?" (Prepare a detailed case study emphasizing your role and impact). Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why O2EPCM? What interests you about our work with public sector clients and capital projects?" (Research O2EPCM's projects and values; align your career goals).

• "How do you foster a collaborative environment among design teams and external consultants?" (Discuss your leadership style and team-building strategies).

• "How do you measure the success of a design project beyond just budget and schedule?" (Focus on client satisfaction, quality, long-term functionality, and compliance). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each key project, have a clear story: The Challenge, Your Role/Actions, The Solution, and The Result/Impact.

• Quantify Everything: Use numbers to demonstrate value – project budgets, savings achieved, schedule improvements, team sizes managed, compliance metrics.

• Highlight Relevant Experience: Emphasize seismic, critical repair, educational facility, and public sector projects. Clearly articulate your management responsibilities for each.

• Showcase Process: Explain how you managed projects, not just what you managed. Detail your methodologies for design review, vendor selection, budget control, and risk management.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about specific projects, decisions made, and challenges encountered.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviews for senior roles like this are highly focused on demonstrating practical experience, strategic thinking, and proven leadership. Your portfolio and your ability to articulate your past successes using specific examples will be paramount.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on Greenhouse.

• Tailor Your Resume: Ensure your resume prominently features your 14+ years of experience in facilities design and capital project management, with at least 4 years focused on educational or public agency projects. Use keywords from the job description like "seismic," "critical repair," "retrofit," "A/E services," "design review," "budget management," and "contract administration."

• Prepare Your Project List: Meticulously compile your "Project List with values, dates, and company of any projects worked." Prioritize projects that align with the role's emphasis on seismic, repairs, and public sector clients. Be ready to discuss these in detail.

• Gather Certifications/Licenses: Have your Bachelor's degree (and Master's, if applicable) documentation ready. If you hold a California Architect or Professional Engineer license, ensure this is clearly stated and documented.

• Identify Professional References: Prepare a list of 3-4 professional references who can speak to your experience in managing complex A/E projects and your leadership capabilities.

• Research O2EPCM: Understand the company's mission, project portfolio, and client base. Prepare to articulate why you are a good fit for their culture and their work in the Los Angeles region.

⚠️ 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.