Senior Design Manager

J.E. Dunn Construction Group Inc P
Full-timeβ€’Kansas City, United States

πŸ“ Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Design Manager

Company: J.E. Dunn Construction Group Inc P

Location: Kansas City, Missouri, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Design Management / Construction Operations

Date Posted: April 28, 2026

Experience Level: 8+ Years (with preferred PM/management experience)

Remote Status: On-site

πŸš€ Role Summary

  • Leads and manages multidisciplinary design teams focused on offsite manufacturing operations and project delivery, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives.

  • Oversees the development of design solutions that meet stringent quality, schedule, cost, and constructability requirements, directly impacting project success and client satisfaction.

  • Provides strategic and operational leadership for design-for-manufacturing teams, emphasizing financial stewardship, staff development, and the implementation of advanced design technologies and Lean principles.

  • Accountable for the performance and continuous improvement of design teams, driving efficiency and predictability through standard work and innovative design methodologies.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: This role is critical for bridging the gap between design and offsite manufacturing. The emphasis on "design for manufacturing" and "advanced design technologies" suggests a forward-thinking approach to construction where efficient production is paramount. Candidates should highlight experience in optimizing designs for fabrication and assembly.

πŸ“ˆ Primary Responsibilities

  • Develops and manages internal work plans based on proposals, collaborating closely with preconstruction, operations, and other key stakeholders to ensure seamless project integration.

  • Leads the creation and coordination of conceptual plans, elevations, and 3D models to support client presentations and win strategies, translating business needs into tangible design concepts.

  • Reviews and interprets contract documents to ensure compliance with codes and criteria, guaranteeing technical requirements and design deliverables are met accurately.

  • Manages external design team partners and consultants, rigorously assuring they adhere to technical, quality, and schedule requirements for all design deliverables.

  • Oversees the design review process for the design-for-manufacturing team, proactively identifying project risks and opportunities while ensuring schedules are maintained.

  • Leverages extensive design experience to guide project teams in resolving specific challenges, closely monitoring design schedules, quality control, and content for timely document delivery.

  • Coordinates the packaging strategies for design documents in collaboration with the project team, ensuring clarity and completeness.

  • Manages comprehensive project documentation, including proposals, drawings, specifications, reports, calculations, and shop drawings, utilizing both 3D and 2D file management systems effectively.

  • Conducts thorough quality control reviews of designs, providing detailed comments to ensure adherence to program specifications and client expectations.

  • Steers projects in alignment with established budgets, generating cost-saving strategies and value-added solutions throughout the design phase to maximize profitability.

  • Monitors and evaluates the cost performance of design partners and consultants against the project budget and design completion percentage.

  • Assists with change management processes by evaluating requests for additional services from outside design consultants against program requirements and base contract scope.

  • Provides essential technical design guidance throughout the entire design and construction lifecycle, from proposal and site survey to permitting, training, and construction.

  • Leads the adoption and application of advanced design methods, including parametric modeling, automation, model-based design, and AI-enabled tools, to enhance productivity and coordination.

  • Evaluates and recommends new design technologies that can improve overall productivity, coordination efficiency, and design quality.

  • Ensures the controlled, standardized, and scalable implementation of new tools and workflows across design teams.

  • Directs the development and application of standard work, best practices, and repeatable design processes to ensure consistency and efficiency.

  • Identifies and implements process improvements to increase operational efficiency, reduce rework, and enhance predictability in design delivery.

  • Coordinates closely with Manufacturing, Operations, Procurement, Project Management, and other internal teams to ensure seamless project execution and integration.

  • Develops, manages, and oversees key financial components (e.g., financial plans, budgets, forecasts) for design-for-manufacturing projects to minimize risk and variance.

  • Proactively monitors and interprets ongoing financial performance, assesses financial risks, and implements appropriate mitigation strategies.

  • Develops business plans and makes operational decisions in alignment with broader financial goals and constraints for the design-for-manufacturing team.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus: traditional design management for construction projects and specialized management for offsite manufacturing. This requires a candidate who can balance client-facing design delivery with internal operational efficiency and production optimization. The emphasis on financial stewardship and risk management for design projects is also a key aspect.

πŸŽ“ Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

  • A minimum of 8 years of experience in project management or managing people is preferred.

  • Must possess cross-functional knowledge of key engineering disciplines, including Architectural, Structural, MEP, and relevant trades.

Required Skills:

  • Design Management: Proven ability to lead and manage complex design processes for construction and manufacturing projects.

  • Project Management: Strong capabilities in planning, executing, and closing projects, ensuring adherence to scope, schedule, and budget.

  • Leadership & Team Management: Demonstrated ability to lead, mentor, and develop multidisciplinary design teams, fostering a collaborative and high-performance environment.

  • AutoCAD & Revit Proficiency: Advanced skill in using AutoCAD and Revit for design development, documentation, and coordination.

  • Building Codes & Standards: Thorough knowledge of U.S. building design codes and material-specific standards relevant to construction.

  • Lean Process Application: Intermediate proficiency in applying Lean principles and philosophies to optimize workflows and reduce waste in design and manufacturing processes.

  • Budget Management & Financial Stewardship: Ability to manage project budgets, maximize profitability, and contribute to financial planning and forecasting for design initiatives.

  • Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey technical information clearly and effectively to diverse audiences.

  • Presentation Skills: Demonstrated ability to conduct effective presentations for clients, stakeholders, and internal teams.

Preferred Skills:

  • Google SketchUp Proficiency: Experience with Google SketchUp for conceptual design and visualization.

  • Design-for-Manufacturing (DFM) Expertise: Specific experience in designing products or components optimized for offsite manufacturing, fabrication, and assembly processes.

  • Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) Integration: Familiarity with VDC processes and coordination tools.

  • Parametric Modeling & AI-Enabled Tools: Experience with advanced design methodologies like parametric modeling and familiarity with AI-enabled design tools.

  • Change Management: Experience in managing the change order process and evaluating requests for additional services.

  • Technical Market Expertise: In-depth knowledge of industry trends, innovations, and best practices within construction and offsite manufacturing.

  • Cross-Disciplinary Coordination: Conversant with linked design disciplines such as Geotechnical/Civil, Architecture, Building FaΓ§ade, Structural, MEP, Data/Communications, Vertical Transportation, Acoustics, and Fire and Life Safety.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The "8+ years of experience as Project Manager or managing people (preferred)" indicates that direct people management is highly valued, in addition to project management experience. The explicit mention of "design for manufacturing" and "advanced design technologies" (parametric modeling, AI) points towards a need for candidates who are not just designers but also innovators in process and technology application within construction.

πŸ“Š Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

  • Design Process Documentation: Showcase examples of detailed design workflows from conceptualization through to construction documentation, highlighting how processes were managed and optimized.

  • Offsite Manufacturing Integration: Include case studies demonstrating designs specifically adapted or developed for offsite manufacturing, fabrication, and installation, emphasizing efficiency gains.

  • Technology Implementation Case Studies: Present examples where advanced design technologies (e.g., Revit, VDC, parametric modeling, automation) were implemented to improve project outcomes, coordination, or quality.

  • Budget and Schedule Management: Provide evidence of successful budget and schedule management within design projects, illustrating how financial targets were met or exceeded.

  • Problem-Solving Scenarios: Detail instances where you identified and resolved complex design challenges, particularly those related to constructability or manufacturability, with clear articulation of the solution and its impact.

Process Documentation:

  • Workflow Design & Optimization: Document your approach to designing and optimizing workflows for design teams, focusing on efficiency, standardization, and risk mitigation. This should include how you implement standard work and Lean principles.

  • System Implementation & Automation: Illustrate your experience in implementing new design technologies, software, or automated processes, detailing the planning, execution, and adoption phases.

  • Measurement & Performance Analysis: Demonstrate how you measure the performance of design processes and teams, using metrics to track quality, schedule adherence, cost control, and overall efficiency. This includes showing how you use data to drive continuous improvement.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: For a Senior Design Manager role with a focus on offsite manufacturing, a portfolio should explicitly highlight the candidate's ability to translate design concepts into manufacturable products and processes. Success stories involving the implementation of new technologies and the optimization of workflows using Lean principles will be highly regarded.

πŸ’΅ Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

The estimated salary range for a Senior Design Manager in Kansas City, MO, with 8+ years of experience and specialized skills in construction design and management, typically falls between $110,000 and $150,000 annually. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for senior-level roles in construction management and design leadership within the Midwest region, considering factors such as cost of living, demand for specialized skills in design for manufacturing, and the reputation of a large construction firm like J.E. Dunn.

Benefits:

  • Professional Non-Union Benefits Package: This comprehensive package is designed for professional staff and typically includes:
    • Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance: Robust coverage options for employees and their families.
    • Retirement Savings Plan: Often a 401(k) plan with a company match, supporting long-term financial security.
    • Paid Time Off (PTO): Generous allocation for vacation, sick leave, and holidays, allowing for work-life balance.
    • Life Insurance and Disability Coverage: Essential protection for employees and their beneficiaries.
    • Professional Development & Training: Opportunities for continuous learning, certifications, and advancement.
    • Potential for Bonuses: Performance-based incentives may be offered.

Working Hours:

  • Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week.

  • The role requires flexibility to work non-traditional hours as needed to meet project demands, which may include evenings and weekends, especially during critical project phases or site visits. Travel may also be extensive and impact working hours.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on typical compensation for similar roles in the Kansas City area and the specified experience level. The benefits are described based on standard offerings for professional, non-union roles in large construction firms. Candidates should verify the exact details and scope of the benefits package during the interview process.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏒 Company Culture

Industry: Construction

Company Size: J.E. Dunn Construction is a large, established company, typically categorized as having over 1,000 employees. This size indicates a well-structured organization with established processes, ample resources, and diverse career opportunities. For operations professionals, this often means working within defined frameworks, collaborating with specialized departments, and having access to robust training and development programs.

Founded: J.E. Dunn Construction was founded over 100 years ago, signifying a long history of stability, expertise, and adaptation in the construction industry. This longevity suggests a company culture that values experience, long-term relationships, and a commitment to quality and client satisfaction.

Team Structure:

  • Operations Focus: The role sits within a design management function that is closely tied to offsite manufacturing operations. This implies a team structure involving designers, engineers, architects, drafters, and potentially manufacturing specialists.

  • Reporting: The Senior Design Manager likely reports to a higher-level director or vice president within the design or operations division. The team managed will be multidisciplinary, requiring coordination across various technical specializations.

  • Collaboration: Expect significant cross-functional collaboration with Preconstruction, Project Management, Manufacturing, Procurement, and VDC teams. The role acts as a key liaison, ensuring design aligns with broader project and company objectives.

Methodology:

  • Data-Driven Design: Emphasis on using data and analytics to inform design decisions, optimize processes, and measure performance, aligning with modern operations practices.

  • Lean Principles: Application of Lean methodologies to drive efficiency, reduce waste, and improve predictability in design and manufacturing workflows.

  • Technology Integration: Proactive adoption and integration of advanced design technologies, including VDC, parametric modeling, and AI-enabled tools, to enhance design quality and project delivery.

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

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: J.E. Dunn's long history and large size suggest a stable, process-oriented environment where a Senior Design Manager can leverage established systems while also driving innovation in design-for-manufacturing. The emphasis on "inspired people" and "inspired places" points towards a culture that values employee contribution and project impact.

πŸ“ˆ Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This Senior Design Manager role is positioned at a senior management level within the design and operations function. It requires a blend of technical expertise in design and construction, strong leadership capabilities, and a strategic understanding of manufacturing processes. The role is accountable for managing teams, budgets, and processes, indicating a significant level of responsibility and autonomy.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Design Manager likely reports to a Director or Vice President of Design, Engineering, or Operations. They will manage a team of designers, engineers, architects, and drafters, and will collaborate extensively with project managers, preconstruction teams, and manufacturing leads. This structure facilitates strategic alignment and operational execution.

Operations Impact: The Senior Design Manager has a direct and substantial impact on the company's revenue and business decisions by:

  • Ensuring design solutions are cost-effective, constructible, and manufacturable, which directly influences project profitability.

  • Leading the adoption of advanced technologies and processes that enhance efficiency, reduce risk, and improve project delivery times, thereby increasing capacity and competitiveness.

  • Developing high-performing design teams that contribute to winning new business and delivering successful projects, reinforcing J.E. Dunn's reputation for quality and innovation.

Growth Opportunities:

  • Specialization & Leadership: Potential to specialize further in design-for-manufacturing, VDC, or specific advanced technologies, leading to Director-level or VP-level roles in these areas.

  • Cross-Functional Moves: Opportunities to move into broader operational leadership roles, such as Director of Operations, VP of Manufacturing, or even Project Executive, leveraging a deep understanding of the project lifecycle from design to execution.

  • Mentorship & Training: As a senior leader, there will be opportunities to mentor junior staff, contribute to internal training programs, and shape the company's design and manufacturing strategies.

  • Industry Influence: Potential to become a subject matter expert, representing J.E. Dunn at industry conferences and contributing to the advancement of construction and manufacturing technologies.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The career path for a Senior Design Manager at a company like J.E. Dunn is robust. The emphasis on technology and manufacturing suggests a growing area within the company, offering significant opportunities for those who can drive innovation and efficiency in these domains.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is primarily based in an office environment, likely in a professional setting within J.E. Dunn's Kansas City headquarters or a regional office. This environment is designed for collaboration, planning, and administrative tasks.

Office Location(s): Kansas City, Missouri. This location offers a central hub for operations and design teams, with potential for project site visits across various locations.

Workspace Context:

  • Collaborative Environment: The workspace is expected to facilitate team collaboration, with access to meeting rooms, design studios, and shared workspaces equipped for brainstorming and project discussions.

  • Tools & Technology: Access to state-of-the-art design software (AutoCAD, Revit, potentially others), VDC tools, project management platforms, and standard office technology will be provided.

  • Team Interaction: Opportunities for frequent interaction with design teams, project managers, preconstruction specialists, and manufacturing leads, fostering a dynamic and integrated work environment.

Work Schedule:

  • The standard work schedule is typically 40 hours per week.

  • However, the demands of the construction industry mean that flexibility is required, with potential for extended hours and weekend work to meet critical project deadlines, site visits, or client needs.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The description indicates a hybrid approach between office-based strategic work and potential field or offsite manufacturing facility interactions. The emphasis on "non-traditional hours" and "extensive periods of travel" suggests that candidates should be prepared for a demanding but rewarding work schedule.

πŸ“„ Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

  1. Initial Screening: A recruiter or hiring manager will review applications to assess qualifications against the job requirements, focusing on experience in design management, construction, and leadership.

  2. Hiring Manager Interview: An in-depth discussion with the hiring manager to explore your experience, leadership style, technical skills (especially in design software and construction processes), and understanding of design-for-manufacturing principles. Be prepared to discuss specific projects that demonstrate your capabilities.

  3. Technical/Team Interview: This stage may involve meeting with other senior members of the design or operations team. Expect questions focused on your technical proficiency, problem-solving abilities, and how you manage teams and processes. You might be asked to discuss case studies or present specific design challenges you've overcome.

  4. Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where you will present and discuss your professional portfolio. This is a crucial step to showcase your past work, design methodologies, process improvements, and ability to manage complex projects and teams.

  5. Executive/Final Interview: A final meeting with senior leadership (e.g., VP of Design, Operations Director) to assess cultural fit, strategic thinking, and overall alignment with J.E. Dunn's vision and values.

Portfolio Review Tips:

  • Highlight Design-for-Manufacturing: Showcase projects where you optimized designs for offsite production, detailing the challenges, your approach, and the quantifiable benefits (e.g., reduced waste, increased speed, cost savings).

  • Demonstrate Leadership & Process Management: Include examples of how you managed multidisciplinary teams, implemented new processes (especially Lean or technology-driven), and resolved conflicts or technical issues.

  • Quantify Impact: For each project or case study, clearly articulate the results achieved using metrics related to cost savings, schedule adherence, quality improvements, risk mitigation, or team performance.

  • Technology Integration: Present instances where you successfully implemented or leveraged advanced design technologies (Revit, VDC, parametric modeling, automation) and explain the impact on project delivery.

  • Structure for Clarity: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type, role, or key competency. Ensure each case study has a clear narrative: problem, solution, and outcome.

Challenge Preparation:

  • Design Optimization Scenarios: Be prepared to discuss how you would approach optimizing a design for modular construction or offsite fabrication, considering material efficiency, assembly logistics, and quality control.

  • Team Management Challenges: Anticipate questions about how you handle underperforming team members, manage conflicts within a multidisciplinary team, or drive adoption of new technologies.

  • Financial Acumen: Prepare to discuss how you manage design budgets, identify cost-saving opportunities, and mitigate financial risks within design projects.

  • Strategic Thinking: Think about how you stay ahead of industry trends in design, construction, and manufacturing, and how you would integrate new innovations into J.E. Dunn's operations.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The interview process emphasizes practical application and demonstration of skills through portfolio review and case studies. Candidates should prepare to articulate their experience with specific examples, focusing on quantifiable results and their ability to manage both design technicalities and operational efficiencies for manufacturing.

πŸ›  Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

  • Revit: Essential for Building Information Modeling (BIM), enabling advanced 3D design, coordination, and documentation. Proficiency expected for complex architectural, structural, and MEP designs.

  • AutoCAD: A foundational tool for 2D drafting and design, likely used for specific tasks or legacy projects.

  • Google SketchUp: Useful for rapid conceptualization, visualization, and early-stage design exploration, especially for client presentations.

  • VDC (Virtual Design and Construction) Software: Tools like Navisworks or similar platforms for model aggregation, clash detection, and constructability analysis, crucial for coordinating design with construction and manufacturing.

  • Project Management Software: Platforms such as Procore, Oracle Primavera, or Microsoft Project for planning, scheduling, resource allocation, and tracking project progress.

Analytics & Reporting:

  • Excel: Advanced proficiency required for data analysis, financial modeling, budget tracking, and generating reports.

  • BI Tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI): Experience with business intelligence tools for creating dashboards, visualizing data, and deriving insights from project performance metrics.

  • ERP Systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle): Familiarity with enterprise resource planning systems for integrated financial and operational management.

CRM & Automation:

  • CRM Software (e.g., Salesforce): Understanding of how client relationships and project pipelines are managed, and how design contributes to business development.

  • Workflow Automation Tools: Familiarity with tools or scripting (e.g., Dynamo for Revit, Python) that can automate repetitive design tasks, improve efficiency, and enhance design quality.

  • Document Management Systems: Experience with platforms for organizing, sharing, and managing project documentation (drawings, specifications, RFIs, submittals).

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The core technical requirements revolve around BIM software (Revit) and general design tools (AutoCAD, SketchUp), with a strong emphasis on VDC integration. Proficiency in financial management tools and an understanding of workflow automation are also critical for optimizing design processes for manufacturing.

πŸ‘₯ Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

  • Inspired People + Right Culture: J.E. Dunn emphasizes hiring motivated individuals and fostering a positive, collaborative work environment. This translates to valuing teamwork, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to project success.

  • Building Perfection: A dedication to high-quality outcomes and continuous improvement in all aspects of construction and design. This means valuing attention to detail, precision, and a proactive approach to problem-solving.

  • Customer Focus: A commitment to understanding and meeting client needs, building strong relationships, and delivering exceptional value. Operations professionals are expected to align their work with client objectives.

  • Innovation & Technology: Embracing new tools, methods, and technologies to enhance efficiency, safety, and project delivery. This includes a forward-thinking approach to design-for-manufacturing and automation.

  • Integrity & Ethics: Upholding the highest standards of honesty, transparency, and ethical conduct in all business dealings.

Collaboration Style:

  • Cross-Functional Integration: A strong emphasis on breaking down silos and fostering seamless collaboration between design, preconstruction, manufacturing, and project management teams. Open communication and shared responsibility are key.

  • Process Improvement Culture: Encouraging feedback, idea sharing, and a willingness to experiment with new approaches to optimize workflows and enhance overall operational efficiency.

  • Knowledge Sharing: Promoting an environment where best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise are shared across teams and projects, contributing to collective growth and expertise development.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The company's stated values of "Inspired People + Right Culture" and "Building Perfection" suggest a culture that values motivated, high-achieving individuals who are committed to quality and continuous improvement. The emphasis on collaboration across diverse functions is crucial for a role bridging design and manufacturing.

⚑ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

  • Balancing Design & Manufacturing Demands: Effectively integrating design requirements with the constraints and opportunities of offsite manufacturing, ensuring designs are not only aesthetically and functionally sound but also optimized for efficient production.

  • Adopting New Technologies: Leading the adoption and integration of advanced design technologies (e.g., AI, parametric modeling) within a traditional industry, which may involve overcoming resistance to change and ensuring proper training and implementation.

  • Managing Multidisciplinary Teams: Effectively leading and coordinating diverse teams of designers, engineers, and architects with varying specializations and potentially different working styles, ensuring cohesive project delivery.

  • Cost and Schedule Pressures: Navigating the inherent pressures of construction projects to deliver within budget and on schedule, requiring strategic decision-making and proactive problem-solving to mitigate risks.

  • Industry Evolution: Staying abreast of rapid advancements in construction technology, materials, and manufacturing processes, and translating these into actionable strategies for J.E. Dunn.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

  • Specialized Training: Access to training programs focused on advanced design software, VDC, Lean construction, and specific offsite manufacturing techniques.

  • Leadership Development: Opportunities to participate in leadership training, mentorship programs, and executive coaching to enhance management and strategic planning skills.

  • Industry Engagement: Potential to attend industry conferences, workshops, and trade shows to stay current with trends and network with peers.

  • Cross-Functional Exposure: Opportunities to gain deeper insights into other areas of the business, such as preconstruction, operations, and project management, fostering a holistic understanding of the construction lifecycle.

  • Career Advancement: Clear pathways for career progression into higher leadership roles within design, operations, or general management.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are inherent to a senior role in a dynamic industry. The growth opportunities highlight J.E. Dunn's commitment to employee development, particularly in areas critical to the future of construction, such as technology and advanced manufacturing.

πŸ’‘ Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

  • Design-for-Manufacturing Strategy: "How would you approach developing a design strategy that maximizes efficiency and cost-effectiveness for offsite manufacturing, considering potential challenges like material sourcing, logistics, and on-site assembly?" Prepare to discuss specific methodologies, technologies, and team structures you would employ.

  • Technology Adoption Plan: "Describe a time you successfully led the adoption of a new design technology or process. What were the key steps, challenges, and outcomes? How would you implement advanced design tools like parametric modeling or AI at J.E. Dunn?" Focus on your change management approach and ability to demonstrate ROI.

  • Team Leadership & Performance: "How do you motivate and manage a diverse team of designers and engineers to achieve high performance and meet demanding project schedules? Discuss your approach to conflict resolution and performance improvement." Prepare examples of leading teams through challenging projects.

Company & Culture Questions:

  • Alignment with Values: "How do your personal values and professional approach align with J.E. Dunn's emphasis on 'Inspired People + Right Culture' and 'Building Perfection'?" Be ready to share anecdotes that demonstrate your commitment to quality, teamwork, and ethical conduct.

  • Collaboration with Operations: "This role requires close collaboration with manufacturing and operations teams. Describe your experience working with production or fabrication departments and how you ensure design meets their needs." Highlight your ability to bridge design and execution.

  • Impact Measurement: "How do you measure the success of your design management efforts, both in terms of project delivery and team development? What key metrics do you track?" Prepare to discuss your approach to ROI and performance analytics.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

  • Storytelling with Data: Structure your portfolio presentations around compelling narratives. For each project, clearly define the problem, your role and solution, the technologies and processes used, and the quantifiable results (cost savings, schedule improvements, quality enhancements).

  • Focus on Design-for-Manufacturing: Dedicate specific slides or sections to projects where you optimized designs for manufacturing. Detail the process, challenges, and benefits achieved.

  • Demonstrate Technical Proficiency: Briefly showcase your skills in key software like Revit and VDC, perhaps through short visual demonstrations or key model excerpts.

  • Highlight Leadership: Emphasize your role in managing teams, mentoring staff, and driving process improvements, using examples from your project experience.

  • Tailor to J.E. Dunn: Research J.E. Dunn's recent projects and strategic initiatives. Frame your experience and portfolio examples to show how you can directly contribute to their current goals and future vision, particularly in areas of innovation and offsite construction.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of technical design expertise, strong leadership, strategic thinking regarding manufacturing integration, and a proactive approach to innovation and process improvement. Quantifiable results and specific examples are critical for success.

πŸ“Œ Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Design Manager position:

  • Submit your application through the J.E. Dunn Construction careers portal via the provided link.

  • Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your experience in design management, construction, offsite manufacturing integration, and leadership. Select 2-3 key projects for your portfolio that best showcase your ability to manage complex design processes and drive efficiency through technology and Lean principles, specifically emphasizing design-for-manufacturing successes.

  • Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly articulates your years of experience, technical proficiencies (Revit, AutoCAD, VDC), leadership accomplishments, and any experience with Lean processes or advanced design technologies. Use keywords from the job description to align with ATS scanning.

  • Interview Preparation: Thoroughly research J.E. Dunn Construction, its projects, and its company culture. Prepare specific examples and case studies from your portfolio to answer strategy, leadership, and technical questions, focusing on how you can contribute to their goals in design-for-manufacturing. Practice presenting your portfolio with a focus on quantifiable achievements.

  • Company Research: Understand J.E. Dunn's market position, key initiatives (e.g., innovation, sustainability), and their approach to integrated project delivery. Be prepared to discuss how your skills and experience align with their strategic objectives and how you can contribute to their continued success in building high-quality projects.

⚠️ 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.

Application Requirements

Candidates must hold a bachelor's degree in architecture, engineering, or a related field and possess 8+ years of experience in project management or leadership. Proficiency in design software like AutoCAD and Revit, along with knowledge of U.S. building codes and construction processes, is required.