Senior Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Design Manager

Company: GAFCON PM CM LLC

Location: Riverside, California, United States

Job Type: Full Time

Category: Construction Project Management / Design Management

Date Posted: April 27, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversees and manages all aspects of complex construction projects on behalf of the owner, acting as a critical Owner's Representative.

• Leads and mentors project teams, fostering a collaborative and high-performing work environment focused on delivery excellence.

• Manages project scope, schedule, budget, and quality from inception through closeout, ensuring alignment with client vision and organizational standards.

• Drives strategic decision-making through advanced data analysis, risk assessment, and critical thinking to resolve complex technical and contractual issues.

• Plays a key role in business development, contributing to client acquisition and revenue growth through proposal development and client engagement.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is internally classified as a Senior Project Manager but specifically emphasizes design management expertise, particularly within Higher Education and Public Works sectors. This suggests a strong focus on the pre-construction and design phases, requiring a deep understanding of architectural, engineering, and construction (AEC) processes, alongside traditional project management. The "Owner's Representative" aspect highlights a client-facing role focused on advocacy and ensuring the owner's interests are paramount throughout the project lifecycle.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Serve as the subject matter expert for Gafcon's Project Management Policies and Procedures, ensuring consistent application across all projects.

• Collaborate closely with owners/clients to develop and implement comprehensive project plans, defining scope, deliverables, resource allocation, timelines, and key performance indicators.

• Lead the Request for Proposal (RFP) process for professional services and construction contractors, including proposal evaluation, negotiation, and contract finalization.

• Manage the activities of construction management staff, including contractors, engineers, and architects, ensuring daily reports and project documentation are thorough, accurate, and easily interpretable.

• Oversee the development of project plans and specifications, with a focus on constructability, operability, maintainability, and cost-effectiveness.

• Manage project deliverables, project controls, cost tracking, and overall project success from initiation through final project closeout and handover.

• Coordinate and manage site access, equipment shutdowns, permit acquisition, and develop project support schedules to minimize interference with ongoing operations.

• Track project data rigorously, including documentation and administration, reporting on real and potential budget and schedule variances to stakeholders.

• Prepare and present detailed technical analyses and cost estimates for proposed changes, managing and negotiating contracts, change orders, payment processing, and compliance verification.

• Independently resolve technical contract-related disputes and issues in collaboration with client representatives, ensuring adherence to legal, regulatory, and contractual requirements.

• Foster open and regular communication, maintaining positive working relationships between owner/client, design professionals, contractors, and regulatory authorities to minimize project disruptions.

• Coordinate and facilitate meetings with all project stakeholders, including owner representatives, design professionals, contractors, and regulatory bodies.

• Prepare and present comprehensive project reports, financial summaries, risk assessments, and strategic presentations to stakeholders and executive leadership.

• Take an active role in the development and approval of safety protocols, ensuring project site compliance with all health and safety regulations.

• Represent the owner, project, and related parties in public forums and meetings, acting as a key liaison.

• Develop resolutions to complex technical problems requiring intricate situational and data analysis.

• Manage Gafcon's contract for staffing, revenue, Profit & Loss (P&L), and risk associated with assigned projects.

• Communicate organizational needs, oversee staff performance, provide guidance, and support individual development for project teams.

• Monitor industry publications, news sources, and online platforms to stay abreast of industry and market trends, identifying innovation opportunities.

• Participate in business development efforts as a seller-doer, collaborating with Marketing and Business Line Leaders.

• Present as a subject matter expert in internal (GafCollege) or external industry association forums.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a blend of strategic oversight and hands-on project execution, typical of a senior role in owner's representation. The focus on "documentation is thorough and tells a story" highlights the importance of clear, concise, and impactful reporting for executive-level clients. The inclusion of P&L responsibility indicates a significant level of financial accountability.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field is preferred.

Experience:

• 10-15 years in design and/or construction.

Required Skills:

• Advanced knowledge of construction drawings and specifications to ensure compliance with project requirements.

• Advanced knowledge and application of master planning, project development, all-phase management, construction estimating, construction scheduling, budget management, project controls, document control, engineering/construction principles, and contracts.

• Expertise in various project delivery methods (e.g., Design-Bid-Build, Design-Build, CM at Risk).

• Demonstrated discernment and critical thinking skills in assessing complex situations, information, and decision-making processes.

• Ability to identify and differentiate between relevant and irrelevant information, focusing on key factors and priorities.

• Strong ability to communicate effectively in written and verbal forms, with a focus on clear, concise, and impactful reporting.

• Outcome-driven mindset with a demonstrated ability to make timely decisions.

• Proactive problem-solving skills, anticipating and resolving project design and construction challenges, prioritizing critical issues, and working towards project-beneficial solutions.

• Strong leadership skills, including the ability to delegate effectively, exhibit confidence, inspire and motivate teams, and maintain respect and trust.

• Ability to maintain composure and objectivity in high-pressure or ambiguous situations, making rational decisions based on available information and expert knowledge.

• Background in strong working knowledge of MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).

Preferred Skills:

• Professional certifications such as PMP (Project Management Professional) or CCM (Certified Construction Manager) are highly desirable.

• Experience specifically within Higher Education and/or Public Works projects.

• Familiarity with advanced project management software and collaboration platforms.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience requirements clearly delineate a need for both breadth (10-15 years in AEC) and depth (5-7 years as a PM on complex projects), with a specific emphasis on design management expertise for higher education and public works projects. The skills section highlights a strong analytical and leadership capability, essential for an owner's representative role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Case Studies: Showcase 3-5 complex projects managed, emphasizing your role in design oversight, scope definition, schedule adherence, and budget control. Highlight specific challenges overcome and solutions implemented.

• Design Management Examples: Include documentation samples demonstrating your involvement in design reviews, constructability assessments, value engineering efforts, and coordination with A/E teams.

• Financial Management Samples: Provide examples of project budgets, cost reports, change order logs, and financial forecasting documents that illustrate your ability to manage project financials effectively.

• Schedule Development & Tracking: Present examples of master schedules, look-ahead schedules, and critical path analysis that demonstrate your proficiency in project scheduling and progress monitoring.

• Contract Administration Documentation: Include samples of contract negotiation summaries, RFI logs, submittal tracking, and closeout documentation to showcase your contract management expertise.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Detail your approach to establishing and refining project management workflows, from initiation and planning through execution, monitoring, and closure.

• Implementation & Automation: Describe how you have implemented new processes or technologies to improve project efficiency, data accuracy, and communication within project teams and with stakeholders.

• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Outline your methods for tracking key performance indicators (KPIs), analyzing project data, and reporting on project performance, budget variances, and schedule deviations.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the emphasis on Owner's Representation and managing complex projects, a portfolio demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of the entire project lifecycle, with a strong focus on design integration and financial/schedule control, will be crucial. The "tells a story" aspect of reporting implies a need for portfolio items that are not just data dumps but narrative-driven presentations of success.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $120,000 - $165,000 per year

Benefits:

• Competitive salary with generous company contributions toward comprehensive family health, dental, and vision insurance.

• Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP), offering an opportunity to invest in company growth.

• 401(k) plan with an employer match, supporting long-term financial planning.

• Generous Paid Vacation, Sick Leave, and Holidays, promoting work-life balance.

• Ongoing Professional Development and Career Advancement Support, including access to GafCollege and industry training.

• People-first, inclusive culture with regular team celebrations, volunteer opportunities, and meaningful employee recognition programs.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week (standard full-time).

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is competitive for a Senior Project Manager/Design Manager role in the Riverside, CA area, aligning with industry benchmarks for individuals with 10-15 years of experience and specialized expertise. The benefits package is comprehensive, reflecting a commitment to employee well-being and long-term engagement.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction Project and Construction Management Consulting. Gafcon PM-CM LLC operates as an Owner's Representative, guiding clients through complex development and construction projects. They leverage advanced technologies and proven management practices to ensure transparency and maximize value for public and private sector clients.

Company Size: Over 130 professionals. This size suggests a well-established firm with a significant operational footprint, offering opportunities for collaboration across various project types and specializations, while still maintaining a culture that values individual contributions.

Founded: 1987. A long-standing history indicates stability, deep industry knowledge, and a proven track record of success. The company's recent integration into GISI (Global Infrastructure Solutions Inc.) in 2024 expands its global reach and access to resources, while maintaining its established operating business, leadership, and culture.

Team Structure:

• Operations Team: Comprises over 130 professionals in program, project, and construction management, indicating specialized teams for different project phases and client needs.

• Reporting Structure: Likely a matrixed structure where project managers report to project directors or business line leaders, with direct reporting lines to clients on a project-by-project basis.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Strong emphasis on collaboration between project management, design, engineering, finance, and business development teams, as well as external stakeholders like architects, contractors, and regulatory bodies.

Methodology:

• Data Analysis & Insights: Utilizes advanced technologies and proven management practices, emphasizing data-driven decision-making for transparency and client confidence.

• Workflow Planning & Optimization: Focuses on managing scope, schedule, and budget with precision, employing best practices in project and construction management.

• Automation & Efficiency: Implies the use of modern tools and techniques to enhance efficiency, streamline processes, and deliver results aligned with client visions.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Gafcon's culture appears to be rooted in a "client-first mindset," "family-founded" values, and a commitment to community impact, now amplified by global reach through GISI. The emphasis on continuous learning, innovation, and ethical leadership suggests a dynamic and professional environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a Senior Project Manager, indicating a mid-to-senior level within the project and construction management field. It requires substantial experience, independent decision-making capabilities, and the ability to manage significant project responsibilities and financial accountability (P&L).

Reporting Structure: The Senior Project Manager will likely report to a Director of Project Management or a Business Line Leader within Gafcon. They will serve as the primary point of contact for clients, acting as the Owner's Representative.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct and significant impact on client satisfaction, project success (on time, within budget, to quality standards), and Gafcon's reputation. Effective management of large, complex projects directly contributes to the firm's revenue and profitability. The involvement in business development also influences the company's growth trajectory.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Potential to manage even larger, more complex, or geographically diverse projects. Specialization in specific sectors (e.g., advanced higher education facilities, large-scale public infrastructure).

• Leadership Development: Opportunities to mentor junior project managers, lead larger project teams, and potentially move into leadership roles such as Program Director or Vice President of Operations.

• Business Development & Client Relations: Deepen expertise in client management and contribute significantly to winning new business, potentially leading to roles with greater strategic influence.

• Industry Expertise: Continuous learning through GafCollege and industry associations can lead to becoming a recognized subject matter expert, influencing best practices within the company and the industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: The integration into GISI provides a broader platform for career advancement, potentially including opportunities within the wider GISI network. The "seller-doer" aspect of the role inherently builds business development acumen, a key differentiator for senior operations leaders.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Riverside, CA, and is described as "On-site." This indicates a traditional office environment within Gafcon's Riverside County facilities, serving as a hub for project administration, team coordination, and client meetings.

Office Location(s): Riverside County, CA. This specific location suggests a focus on projects within the Southern California region, particularly those requiring local presence and coordination.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Likely features open-plan areas or dedicated meeting rooms designed for team collaboration, client presentations, and cross-functional discussions.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to Gafcon's project management information systems (PMIS), MS Office Suite, and potentially advanced visualization or BIM software.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular interaction with project teams, design consultants, contractors, and Gafcon leadership, fostering a dynamic and communicative work atmosphere.

Work Schedule: Standard 40-hour work week, with the expectation of flexibility and potential for extended hours during critical project phases or to meet client demands, common in project management roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature of the role emphasizes the importance of physical presence for site visits, client meetings, and direct team engagement, which are critical for effective owner's representation in construction management.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application by HR to assess alignment with basic qualifications and experience.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the hiring manager (likely a Director or VP) to delve deeper into your project management experience, design management expertise, leadership style, and understanding of Gafcon's methodologies. Expect behavioral questions and scenario-based inquiries.

• Portfolio Presentation/Review: A critical stage where you will present key projects from your portfolio, demonstrating your capabilities in design oversight, project controls, financial management, and stakeholder communication. Be prepared to discuss your specific contributions, challenges, and outcomes.

• Team/Stakeholder Interviews: Potential interviews with other senior project managers, design leads, or even client representatives to assess cultural fit, collaboration skills, and technical acumen.

• Final Interview/Offer: A final discussion with senior leadership, potentially including a P&L responsibility discussion, followed by an offer.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best showcase your experience in higher education and/or public works, and highlight your design management skills.

• Quantify Achievements: Use specific numbers and metrics to illustrate your impact on budget savings, schedule improvements, risk mitigation, and project success.

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the challenge, your role and approach, the solutions implemented, and the measurable results.

• Focus on Design Integration: Emphasize your contributions to design development, constructability reviews, and ensuring design intent was met.

• Demonstrate Leadership: Highlight instances where you led teams, managed stakeholders, and navigated complex interpersonal dynamics.

• Prepare for Q&A: Anticipate questions about your decision-making process, conflict resolution skills, and how you handle pressure.

Challenge Preparation:

• Case Study Analysis: Be prepared for potential case studies related to project delays, budget overruns, or design conflicts, and how you would address them.

• Process Walkthrough: You may be asked to walk through your process for managing RFPs, change orders, or project closeouts.

• Leadership Scenarios: Practice responding to questions about motivating teams, handling underperforming staff, or managing difficult clients.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely assess not only technical project management skills but also your strategic thinking, client advisory capabilities, and leadership potential, especially given the Owner's Representative aspect of the role.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• MS Office Suite: Essential for daily operations, reporting, and communication (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).

• Project Management Information Systems (PMIS): Proficiency with industry-standard PMIS is expected. While specific systems aren't listed, common examples include Procore, Aconex, Oracle AECOsim, or similar platforms used for document control, scheduling, and cost management.

• Scheduling Software: Advanced knowledge of scheduling tools like Primavera P6 or Microsoft Project is likely required for complex project planning and tracking.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Excel: Advanced proficiency for data analysis, financial modeling, and custom reporting.

• PMIS Reporting Modules: Ability to extract and interpret data from PMIS for performance analysis.

• Presentation Software: PowerPoint for creating clear and impactful project reports and executive presentations.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM (Client Relationship Management): While not explicitly stated for this role, understanding CRM principles might be beneficial for business development efforts and client tracking.

• Automation Tools: Gafcon's mention of "advanced technologies" suggests a willingness to adopt tools that automate workflows, such as document management systems, RFI/submittal tracking modules within PMIS, or digital proposal management tools.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "advanced technologies and proven management practices" suggests that candidates familiar with modern digital construction management tools and data analytics will be highly valued.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Client-Centricity: A strong "client-first mindset" is paramount, focusing on advocacy, transparency, and delivering value aligned with each owner's vision.

• Integrity & Ethical Leadership: Operating with high ethical standards in all dealings with clients, partners, and employees.

• Continuous Learning & Innovation: A commitment to staying abreast of industry trends, adopting new technologies, and fostering professional development through GafCollege and other means.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Valuing diverse ideas and fostering a collaborative culture where shared success is prioritized.

• Community Impact: A deep commitment to giving back to the communities they serve, reflecting a sense of social responsibility.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Expectation to work seamlessly with internal teams (project management, design, finance, business development) and external stakeholders (clients, architects, engineers, contractors, regulatory bodies).

• Process Review & Feedback: A culture that encourages open communication and constructive feedback to continuously improve processes and project outcomes.

• Knowledge Sharing: Active participation in sharing best practices and lessons learned, potentially through internal training sessions or documentation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture appears to be a blend of professional rigor, client dedication, and a strong sense of community and employee well-being, amplified by its recent acquisition.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Complex Stakeholder Needs: Balancing the diverse and sometimes conflicting requirements of owners, design teams, contractors, and regulatory bodies on large projects.

• Navigating Design Ambiguities: Addressing potential gaps, inconsistencies, or constructability issues within project designs, requiring proactive problem-solving and clear communication.

• Controlling Scope Creep & Budget Overruns: Rigorously managing project scope and budget against defined baselines, necessitating strong negotiation and change management skills.

• Ensuring Regulatory Compliance: Staying current with and ensuring adherence to all relevant building codes, safety regulations, and permitting requirements across potentially multiple jurisdictions.

• Adapting to Evolving Technologies: Continuously integrating new project management tools and techniques to enhance efficiency and project delivery.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Gafcon's "GafCollege" provides structured learning opportunities. This role offers exposure to a wide range of project types and complexities, naturally enhancing expertise.

• Industry Exposure: Participation in industry conferences, professional organization memberships, and continuing education programs will be supported.

• Leadership Mentorship: Opportunities to learn from senior leaders within Gafcon and potentially within the broader GISI network.

• Business Development Acumen: The "seller-doer" aspect provides direct experience in client acquisition and relationship management, crucial for career progression.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for senior-level project management in complex construction environments, offering significant opportunities for professional growth and skill enhancement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Operations Strategy: "Describe your approach to developing a comprehensive project plan for a large higher education construction project, including key milestones and risk mitigation strategies." or "How do you ensure design intent is maintained throughout the construction phase while managing budget and schedule constraints?"

• Collaboration & Stakeholder Management: "Walk me through a time you had to manage a dispute between a client and a contractor. What was your strategy, and what was the outcome?" or "How do you build trust and rapport with diverse stakeholders, including technical experts and non-technical clients?"

• Problem-Solving: "Describe a complex technical problem you encountered on a project. How did you analyze it, what solution did you propose, and what were the results?" or "How do you prioritize issues when multiple critical problems arise simultaneously on a project?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in Gafcon specifically, and how does your experience align with our client-first approach and commitment to community impact?"

• "How do you foster a collaborative and high-performing team environment, especially when working with external contractors and consultants?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each project, use a clear STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) or similar framework. Focus on your specific contributions and decision-making.

• Highlight Design Management: Clearly articulate your role in design reviews, constructability, value engineering, and coordination with A/E teams.

• Quantify Impact: Use metrics for budget, schedule, quality, and risk mitigation. For example, "Reduced project costs by 7% through value engineering initiatives" or "Completed project 3 weeks ahead of schedule."

• Demonstrate Leadership: Showcase how you led teams, motivated members, and resolved conflicts.

• Be Ready for Deep Dives: Expect detailed questions about your technical approach, financial management, and problem-solving methodologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare to speak extensively about your experience with Higher Education and/or Public Works projects. Be ready to discuss your understanding of Gafcon's Owner's Representative role and how you would embody their values.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Design Manager position:

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

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your 10-15 years of AEC experience, with a specific emphasis on 5-7 years in project management for complex projects, and any experience in Higher Education or Public Works.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly outlines your expertise in design management, contract administration, cost estimating, scheduling, budget management, and P&L responsibility, using keywords from the job description.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your project management philosophy, leadership style, and problem-solving approaches using the recommended strategy questions. Prepare a concise presentation of 2-3 key portfolio projects.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Gafcon PM-CM LLC's projects, values, and recent news (especially the GISI acquisition) to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural alignment. Understand their "client-first mindset" and commitment to community.

⚠️ 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.