Senior Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Design Manager

Company: J.E. Dunn Construction Group Inc P

Location: Kansas City, MO

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Design Management / Construction Operations

Date Posted: 2026-07-24T07:00:00

Experience Level: 8+ Years (Preferred: 8+ years in Project/People Management)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage multidisciplinary teams of designers, engineers, architects, and drafters in the development of design solutions specifically for offsite manufacturing operations and project delivery objectives.

• Provide strategic and operational leadership to ensure design deliverables adhere to stringent quality, schedule, cost, and constructability requirements, all while aligning with client expectations and approved project budgets.

• Drive financial stewardship, staff development, and continuous improvement initiatives within the design for manufacturing teams, with a focus on implementing design-for-manufacturing principles, standard work, and advanced design technologies.

• Empowered to make decisions within defined limits of authority, with clear accountability for team performance and the successful execution of design strategies that support JE Dunn's innovative construction methodologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within a construction group that emphasizes offsite manufacturing, indicating a strong focus on Design for Manufacturing (DFM) principles. The "Senior" title and explicit mention of financial stewardship and staff development suggest a leadership role with significant operational and strategic responsibilities, extending beyond traditional design management. The emphasis on "inspired people and places" and "building perfection" points to a culture valuing innovation and high-quality execution within a large, established construction firm.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and manage internal work plans by interpreting proposals and collaborating closely with preconstruction, operations, and other key stakeholders to define project scope and design strategies.

• Translate client business needs into conceptual plans, elevations, and 3D models to support presentations and win strategies, ensuring alignment with project objectives and client expectations.

• Conduct thorough reviews of contract documents to ensure project compliance with codes and criteria, verifying technical requirements and design deliverables meet established standards.

• Manage external design partners and consultants, ensuring they meet all technical, quality, and schedule requirements for design deliverables, and serving as an escalation point for design-related issues.

• Lead the design review process with the design for manufacturing team to ensure timely delivery of design documents, proactively identifying and mitigating project risks and opportunities throughout the design phase.

• Leverage deep design experience to guide project teams in identifying and implementing solutions to project-specific challenges, while closely monitoring design schedules, quality control, and content for all design document deliveries.

• Coordinate the development and packaging of design documents with the project team, ensuring seamless integration of 3D and 2D file management systems for comprehensive project documentation.

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

• Evaluate and recommend new design technologies that can improve overall productivity, coordination, and quality, ensuring their controlled, standardized, and scalable implementation.

• Oversee design development to ensure strict alignment with client requirements, contract documents, and project budgets, with a specific focus on supporting Form's offsite manufacturing, fabrication, logistics, and installation capabilities.

• Direct the development and application of standard work, best practices, and repeatable design processes, identifying opportunities for continuous process improvement to increase efficiency, reduce rework, and enhance predictability.

• Ensure designs appropriately balance quality, schedule, cost, and constructability, while generating cost-saving strategies and value-added solutions throughout the design phase.

• Manage key financial components, including financial plans, budgets, and forecasts for design for manufacturing projects, to minimize risk, maximize contributions to company revenue, and ensure operational efficiency.

• Proactively monitor, interpret, and respond to ongoing financial performance, assessing and mitigating financial risks, and developing business plans in light of broader financial goals and constraints.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on traditional design management within construction and a specialized emphasis on "design for manufacturing" (DFM). This implies a need for expertise in optimizing designs for offsite production, logistics, and assembly, which is a critical GTM and operational consideration for modern construction firms. The inclusion of financial stewardship, staff development, and advanced technology adoption points to a strategic leadership role rather than purely technical execution.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Engineering, or a related technical field (Required). Experience:

• Minimum of 8 years of experience in Project Management or managing teams (Preferred).

• Demonstrated experience in taking conceptual designs through to construction, including effective collaboration with both internal teams and external partners.

• Cross-functional knowledge of key engineering disciplines (Architectural, Structural, MEP, etc.) and relevant construction trades. Required Skills:

• Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, and/or Google SketchUp for design development and visualization.

• Strong understanding of U.S. building design codes and material-specific standards to ensure compliance and safety.

• Ability to think in a highly structured manner across all design disciplines while also possessing the creativity to develop specialized solutions by anticipating potential challenges.

• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to conduct effective presentations to diverse stakeholders.

• Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

• Thorough knowledge of project processes and how each phase supports the successful completion of a project, with an ability to apply Lean process and philosophy at an intermediate level.

• Proven ability to build strong relationships and collaborate effectively within a team, both internally and externally.

• Ability to manage budgets, maximize profitability, and generate future work through cultivating strong professional relationships.

• Technical market expertise with a keen awareness of industry trends and innovations relevant to construction design and manufacturing. Preferred Skills:

• Experience in Design for Manufacturing (DFM) principles and their application in construction projects.

• Familiarity with parametric modeling, automation, model-based design, and AI-enabled design tools.

• Experience with VDC (Virtual Design and Construction) processes and technologies.

• Conversant knowledge of linked design disciplines including Geotechnical/Civil, Building Façade, Structural, MEP, Data/Communications, Vertical Transportation, Acoustics, and Fire and Life Safety.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "design for manufacturing" and advanced technologies like parametric modeling and AI suggests a forward-thinking approach by J.E. Dunn. Candidates with experience in optimizing designs for offsite fabrication and assembly will be highly valued. The requirement for both structured thinking and creativity, alongside specific software proficiencies and code knowledge, indicates a need for a well-rounded technical leader.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Case Studies in Design Management: Showcase projects where you managed multidisciplinary design teams, highlighting your leadership, coordination, and problem-solving approaches.

• Design-for-Manufacturing (DFM) Examples: Present specific instances where you optimized designs for offsite manufacturing, fabrication, logistics, and installation, demonstrating efficiency gains and cost savings.

• Process Optimization Initiatives: Detail projects where you implemented or improved design processes, particularly those involving Lean principles, standard work, or advanced technologies (e.g., BIM, parametric modeling).

• Financial Stewardship Examples: Include examples of budget management, cost control strategies, and financial forecasting for design projects, demonstrating your ability to contribute to revenue and margin goals.

• Stakeholder Collaboration Documentation: Provide evidence of successful collaboration with internal teams (preconstruction, operations, VDC) and external partners (consultants, fabricators), illustrating your communication and relationship-building skills.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Demonstrate your ability to map, analyze, and optimize design workflows, with a focus on efficiency, predictability, and risk mitigation in the context of offsite manufacturing.

• Implementation of Standard Work: Showcase how you've developed, implemented, and enforced standard operating procedures (SOPs) for design processes to ensure consistency and quality across projects.

• Technology Adoption & Integration: Provide examples of how you've evaluated, recommended, and integrated new design technologies and tools to enhance team productivity and project outcomes.

• Performance Measurement & Reporting: Illustrate your approach to monitoring design progress, quality control, and financial performance, including the creation of reports and dashboards for stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Senior Design Manager role, particularly one focused on Design for Manufacturing, a portfolio should clearly articulate not just design outputs but the processes and strategies employed. Candidates should highlight their ability to manage complex workflows, implement best practices, and leverage technology to drive efficiency and cost-effectiveness in an offsite manufacturing context. Demonstrating financial acumen alongside design leadership is crucial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Based on industry benchmarks for a Senior Design Manager with 8+ years of experience in a major metropolitan area like Kansas City, MO, and considering the specialized nature of Design for Manufacturing, the estimated annual salary range is $110,000 - $150,000. This estimate accounts for the leadership responsibilities, technical expertise, and the strategic impact on project delivery and financial performance.

Benefits:

• Professional Non-Union Benefits Package: This indicates a comprehensive benefits offering typically including:

  • Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance

  • Paid Time Off (PTO) and Holidays

  • Retirement Savings Plan (e.g., 401(k) with company match)

  • Life and Disability Insurance

  • Potential for performance-based bonuses or profit sharing

  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

  • Opportunities for professional development and training Working Hours:

• Standard workweek is typically 40 hours.

• The role requires a willingness to work non-traditional hours to meet project needs, which may include evenings, weekends, or extended travel, especially during critical project phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on the role's seniority, location (Kansas City, MO), and the specialized nature of Design for Manufacturing within a large construction group. The "Professional Non-Union" classification suggests a standard corporate benefits package. The explicit mention of willingness to work non-traditional hours is common for senior roles in the construction industry, reflecting project demands.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction & General Contracting, with a significant focus on innovative building methods including offsite manufacturing.

Company Size: J.E. Dunn Construction is a large, established firm, consistently ranking among the top construction companies in the U.S. With thousands of employees across numerous locations, it offers the stability and resources of a major corporation while striving to maintain a culture of inspired people and craftsmanship.

Founded: Founded in 1924, J.E. Dunn has over 100 years of history, emphasizing a long-term commitment to its people, clients, and the communities it serves. This legacy suggests a culture that values experience, reliability, and sustained growth.

Team Structure:

• Multidisciplinary Design Teams: The Senior Design Manager will lead teams comprised of designers, engineers, architects, and drafters, likely with varying specializations relevant to construction projects.

• Reporting Structure: Likely reports to a Director of Design, VP of Operations, or a similar senior leadership role within the design or manufacturing division. Collaboration will be extensive with Preconstruction, Project Management, and Operations teams.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: The role is central to bridging design intent with manufacturing reality and project execution. Close collaboration with estimating, business development, VDC, manufacturing, procurement, and project management teams is essential.

Methodology:

• Design-for-Manufacturing (DFM) Focus: A core methodology emphasizing the integration of design processes with manufacturing capabilities to optimize efficiency, cost, and quality for offsite production.

• Lean Construction Principles: Application of Lean methodologies to reduce waste, improve workflow, and enhance value delivery throughout the design and construction lifecycle.

• Advanced Design Technologies: Utilization of BIM, VDC, parametric modeling, and potentially AI-enabled tools to support design, coordination, and fabrication.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Emphasis on using data from design, cost, schedule, and performance metrics to inform decisions and drive continuous improvement.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: J.E. Dunn's long history and scale suggest a well-defined corporate structure with established processes. The emphasis on "inspired people" and "building perfection" points to a culture that values talent, innovation, and a commitment to quality. The specific mention of offsite manufacturing indicates a strategic push into modern construction techniques, making this role critical for future growth.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior-level management position within the design and operations functions of a major construction firm. It signifies a transition from individual contribution or team leadership to strategic oversight, team development, and significant operational impact, particularly in the specialized area of Design for Manufacturing.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Design Manager will likely report to a Director or VP level executive responsible for design, engineering, or manufacturing operations. They will manage a team of designers and engineers and collaborate closely with other senior leaders across project management, preconstruction, and operations. This position acts as a key liaison between conceptual design, manufacturing capabilities, and on-site execution.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct impact on project profitability, schedule adherence, and quality outcomes by ensuring designs are optimized for efficient offsite manufacturing and constructability. Strategic leadership in adopting new technologies and methodologies can significantly enhance the company's competitive advantage in the construction market, driving innovation and operational excellence.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to move into Director-level roles overseeing larger design departments, specific manufacturing divisions, or broader operational areas within J.E. Dunn.

• Specialization Development: Deepen expertise in Design for Manufacturing, VDC, or specific advanced design technologies, becoming a subject matter expert within the organization or industry.

• Cross-Functional Leadership: Transition into broader operational leadership roles that leverage design and manufacturing insights to influence overall project delivery strategy.

• Mentorship & Training: Opportunity to mentor junior design staff and contribute to the development of internal training programs for design and manufacturing best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior" designation and the breadth of responsibilities—spanning team leadership, financial oversight, strategic technology adoption, and DFM—position this role as a significant career advancement opportunity. It’s a role that prepares individuals for broader executive leadership within construction operations or specialized design/manufacturing functions.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This role is primarily office-based, supporting the design and manufacturing operations. While the specific office environment isn't detailed, large construction firms like J.E. Dunn typically provide professional office settings conducive to collaboration and focused work.

Office Location(s): The position is based in Kansas City, MO. Assignments may also include project sites, which could involve varying environmental conditions. Extensive travel may be required.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Expect a dynamic workspace that encourages interaction and collaboration among design teams, project managers, and other stakeholders.

• Technology-Rich: Access to advanced design software, hardware, and potentially VDC/VR tools necessary for modern design and manufacturing processes.

• Team Interaction: Frequent opportunities to engage with internal teams, external consultants, and potentially clients, fostering a communicative and integrated work culture.

Work Schedule:

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

• However, the role explicitly states a willingness to work non-traditional hours (evenings, weekends) to meet project needs, which is common in the construction industry to ensure project timelines are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "On-site" work arrangement is confirmed, with potential for extensive travel and non-traditional hours. This indicates a hands-on leadership role that requires presence and adaptability to project demands, typical for senior positions in the construction sector.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application, focusing on experience in design management, construction, and any relevant DFM or advanced technology background.

• Hiring Manager Interview: An in-depth discussion about your experience, leadership style, and approach to managing design teams and projects. Expect questions related to your understanding of construction processes, DFM principles, and financial management.

• Technical/Team Interview: This may involve a panel interview with key stakeholders from design, operations, and preconstruction. You might be asked to present a case study from your portfolio or discuss specific technical challenges.

• Senior Leadership Interview: A final interview with senior management to assess cultural fit, strategic alignment, and overall suitability for the role and company.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Impact: Clearly articulate the business impact of your design management and DFM contributions. Quantify achievements in terms of cost savings, schedule improvements, quality enhancements, and risk reduction.

• Showcase DFM Expertise: Dedicate sections to projects where you applied Design for Manufacturing principles. Explain your process, the challenges faced, and the specific benefits realized through optimized designs for offsite production.

• Demonstrate Leadership: Use case studies to illustrate your ability to lead, mentor, and motivate multidisciplinary teams. Highlight instances where you successfully managed external consultants and navigated complex stakeholder relationships.

• Process & Technology Integration: Present examples of how you've implemented or improved design processes and integrated new technologies. Explain the rationale behind your choices and the results achieved.

• Conciseness and Clarity: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, visually appealing, and easy to understand. Tailor the content to highlight skills and experiences most relevant to J.E. Dunn's focus on offsite manufacturing and innovation.

Challenge Preparation:

• DFM Scenario: Be prepared for a hypothetical scenario where you need to design a component or system for offsite manufacturing. Focus on constructability, cost-effectiveness, and integration with other project elements.

• Process Improvement Challenge: Anticipate questions about how you would improve a specific design process or workflow within the context of J.E. Dunn's operations.

• Financial Management Questions: Be ready to discuss your experience with design budgets, cost control, and financial forecasting, including how you would manage financial risks.

• Leadership & Team Management: Prepare to discuss your leadership philosophy, how you motivate teams, and how you handle performance issues or conflicts within a multidisciplinary group.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the role's emphasis on Design for Manufacturing and advanced technologies, candidates should be prepared to demonstrate practical application of these concepts. A portfolio that clearly showcases DFM case studies and process optimization initiatives will be critical for advancing through the interview stages.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software:

  • AutoCAD: Essential for 2D drafting and general design work.
  • Revit: Critical for Building Information Modeling (BIM), 3D design, coordination, and documentation. Proficiency is highly valued.
  • Google SketchUp: Useful for conceptual design, quick modeling, and visualization.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with industry-standard project management platforms (e.g., Procore, Autodesk Construction Cloud) for tracking progress, managing documents, and facilitating communication.

• VDC/BIM Tools: Experience with Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) principles and associated software for enhanced project coordination, simulation, and clash detection.

Analytics & Reporting:

• MS Office Suite: Advanced proficiency in Excel for data analysis, financial modeling, and reporting. PowerPoint for presentations.

• Data Visualization Tools: While not explicitly mentioned, familiarity with tools that can translate design and project data into understandable reports and dashboards (e.g., Power BI, Tableau) would be advantageous.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: Understanding of how design and project data integrate with CRM systems for client management and business development insights.

• Automation Tools: Experience or familiarity with exploring and implementing automation within design workflows (e.g., parametric scripting, workflow automation software) to improve efficiency.

• Integration Platforms: Awareness of how different software platforms (CAD, PM, ERP) can be integrated to streamline data flow and processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in core design software (AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp) is a must. The role's emphasis on advanced technologies and DFM suggests that experience with BIM, VDC, and potentially automation tools will be highly beneficial, positioning candidates who can leverage these for efficiency and quality as strong contenders.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Inspired People & Places: A core company value emphasizing the importance of talented individuals and the quality of the built environment they create. For operations, this translates to fostering a motivated team and delivering exceptional project outcomes.

• Building Perfection: A commitment to high standards of quality, craftsmanship, and execution in all aspects of construction and design. This drives a culture of meticulousness and continuous improvement.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: JE Dunn emphasizes working together across disciplines and departments to achieve common goals. This role requires strong collaborative skills to bridge design, manufacturing, and site operations.

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: The push towards offsite manufacturing and advanced technologies highlights a company culture that embraces innovation and seeks ongoing efficiency gains and process enhancements.

• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding ethical standards and taking ownership of responsibilities, particularly in managing complex projects, budgets, and teams.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expect a highly collaborative environment where design, manufacturing, preconstruction, and project management teams work closely together. The Senior Design Manager will be a key facilitator of this integration.

• Process Review & Feedback: A culture that encourages open feedback and constructive critique to refine processes and improve outcomes. This applies to both design methodologies and operational workflows.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouragement of sharing best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise across teams and projects to foster collective growth and maintain high standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's stated values ("Inspired People," "Building Perfection") suggest a culture that values talent, quality, and a dedication to excellence. The emphasis on collaboration is critical for a role that bridges design and manufacturing. Candidates who demonstrate alignment with these values and can foster a collaborative, results-oriented environment will be a strong fit.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Bridging Design and Manufacturing: Effectively translating design intent into manufacturable components for offsite production, ensuring seamless integration with fabrication processes and site assembly. This requires deep understanding of both disciplines.

• Adoption of New Technologies: Leading the charge in implementing and scaling advanced design methods (parametric, AI, VDC) across teams, which can involve overcoming resistance to change and ensuring adequate training and support.

• Balancing Competing Priorities: Simultaneously managing design quality, schedule adherence, cost control, and constructability requirements, often under tight project deadlines.

• Managing Multidisciplinary Teams: Leading diverse groups of professionals (architects, engineers, drafters) with varying expertise and potentially different working styles, ensuring cohesive team performance.

• Financial Stewardship: Effectively managing design budgets, controlling costs, and contributing to overall project profitability in a complex construction environment.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Deepen DFM Expertise: Become a recognized expert in Design for Manufacturing within a leading construction firm, influencing company strategy and best practices.

• Advanced Technology Proficiency: Gain hands-on experience and leadership in implementing cutting-edge design and VDC technologies, staying at the forefront of industry innovation.

• Leadership Development: Enhance strategic planning, financial management, and team leadership skills through managing significant projects and teams, preparing for executive roles.

• Industry Exposure: Potential to attend industry conferences, workshops, and training programs focused on construction innovation, design technology, and manufacturing processes.

• Mentorship Programs: Opportunity to be mentored by senior leaders within J.E. Dunn and to mentor junior team members, fostering professional growth and knowledge transfer.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant opportunities for professional growth by tackling complex challenges at the intersection of design, manufacturing, and construction technology. The challenges are inherently linked to learning and development, offering a steep but rewarding career trajectory.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• DFM Implementation: "Describe a complex project where you implemented Design for Manufacturing principles. What were the key challenges, your specific contributions, and the resulting impact on efficiency and cost?" (Focus on process, problem-solving, and quantifiable results).

• Technology Adoption: "How would you approach introducing and integrating a new design technology, such as AI-assisted design or advanced parametric modeling, into an established team and workflow?" (Emphasize change management, training strategy, and ROI justification).

• Cross-Functional Leadership: "Explain your strategy for ensuring seamless collaboration and communication between design teams, offsite manufacturing operations, and on-site project teams to achieve project objectives." (Highlight communication channels, conflict resolution, and integration strategies).

Company & Culture Questions:

• Alignment with Values: "How do your personal work values align with J.E. Dunn's commitment to 'Inspired People' and 'Building Perfection'?" (Connect your experience and approach to their stated values).

• Leadership Philosophy: "Describe your leadership style and how you motivate and develop multidisciplinary design teams." (Provide specific examples of team management and staff development).

• Innovation in Construction: "What role do you see for advanced design and manufacturing technologies in the future of the construction industry, and how would you drive innovation at J.E. Dunn?" (Demonstrate forward-thinking and strategic insight).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Narrative-Driven Case Studies: Structure your portfolio presentations around compelling stories that highlight the problem, your solution (process/design), and the measurable outcome. Focus on the "why" and "how" behind your actions.

• Quantify Impact: For each project, present key metrics related to cost savings, schedule acceleration, quality improvements, risk mitigation, and efficiency gains achieved through your design management and DFM efforts.

• Visualizations: Use high-quality visuals (renderings, models, process flowcharts, data charts) to illustrate your design work, team collaboration, and process improvements effectively.

• DFM Focus: Clearly articulate your role and contributions in projects specifically involving offsite manufacturing, detailing how designs were optimized for fabrication and assembly.

• Concise & Engaging Delivery: Practice your presentation to be clear, concise, and engaging, ensuring you can articulate complex concepts and technical details effectively within a reasonable timeframe.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should heavily lean into demonstrating experience with Design for Manufacturing, leadership of technical teams, and strategic thinking around technology adoption. Candidates should be ready to present specific, quantified examples from their portfolio that directly address these areas.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Design Manager position:

• Submit Your Application: Complete and submit your application through the J.E. Dunn Construction careers portal.

• Tailor Your Resume: Ensure your resume prominently features keywords related to design management, construction, offsite manufacturing, DFM, BIM, VDC, project management, leadership, and financial stewardship. Highlight achievements with quantifiable results.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Prepare a comprehensive portfolio that showcases your best work, with a strong emphasis on Design for Manufacturing case studies, process optimization initiatives, and leadership examples. Be ready to present this during the interview process.

• Research J.E. Dunn: Familiarize yourself with J.E. Dunn's history, projects, values, and their strategic focus on innovation and offsite manufacturing. Understand their market position and company culture.

• Prepare for Case Studies: Anticipate potential design or process-related challenges during the interview process and prepare to present your strategic approach and solutions, drawing from your portfolio and experience.

⚠️ 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.