Senior Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Design Manager, AE M&O

Company: PRIDE RESOURCE PARTNERS LLC (A Think Power Solutions Company)

Location: Los Angeles, CA

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Operations Management / Design & Engineering Oversight

Date Posted: August 13, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversee the design and engineering review process for seismic, critical repair, and retrofit projects, ensuring alignment with functional, budgetary, and regulatory requirements.

• Manage and mentor a team of design professionals, fostering a collaborative environment for design excellence and project success.

• Drive the strategic planning and execution of architectural and engineering services to support the District's capital improvement initiatives.

• Ensure compliance with established standards and guidelines for new construction and modernization projects, delivering high-value, enduring facilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Senior Design Manager," the responsibilities heavily lean into operations management within the context of design and construction projects. The role requires a blend of technical oversight, project management, and team leadership, all aimed at ensuring the efficient and effective delivery of infrastructure improvements. This is a key GTM (Go-To-Market) enablement role, ensuring that the physical infrastructure supporting operations meets strategic business needs.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Manage multiple complex projects concurrently, with a strong emphasis on seismic retrofitting, critical repairs, and facility modernization initiatives.

• Lead, develop, and supervise a team of design professionals, including architects and engineers, through rigorous design review cycles.

• Coordinate and manage the District’s architectural and engineering (A&E) services to ensure designs meet functional program, budget, environmental, and legal mandates.

• Oversee the building design process, ensuring strict adherence to the District's standards and guidelines for both new structures and modernized facilities.

• Establish and implement robust processes for the selection of architectural firms based on qualifications, performance potential, and alignment with project objectives.

• Provide clear, consistent direction to architects and consultants regarding project goals, standards, site constraints, schedules, and budgets.

• Implement an efficient and effective design review process to guarantee that all designs align with overarching project goals and objectives.

• Ensure designs deliver maximum value for allocated budgets and are appropriate and durable for the District's long-term functional needs, community impact, and environmental sustainability.

• Review and approve design changes, meticulously tracking their impact on project budgets and scope.

• Monitor project planning and design progress, reporting findings, recommendations, and status updates to relevant stakeholders.

• Perform other duties as assigned to support the overall mission of infrastructure management and development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities highlight a strong project and program management focus within a design and construction context. For operations professionals, this translates to managing complex initiatives with multiple dependencies, cross-functional stakeholder alignment, and rigorous performance tracking against defined metrics (budget, schedule, quality). The emphasis on "District's standards and guidelines" points to the need for strong process adherence and quality assurance.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Graduation from a recognized college or university with a bachelor's degree in Architecture or Engineering.

• A master's degree in Architecture or Engineering is preferred. Experience:

• Minimum of 14 years of full-time, paid professional experience managing facilities design, or the planning and coordination of capital projects.

• This experience must encompass overall design, contract administration, cost estimating, and scheduling activities.

• A minimum of 4 years of this experience must be specifically with the design, planning, and construction of educational facilities or similar public agencies. Required Skills:

• Project Management: Proven ability to manage multiple, large-scale capital projects from inception through completion.

• Design Review & Oversight: Expertise in reviewing architectural and engineering designs for compliance with standards, codes, and project objectives.

• Contract Administration: Strong understanding of contract negotiation, management, and oversight for A&E services.

• Cost Estimating & Budget Management: Proficiency in developing, managing, and controlling project budgets, including reviewing design-related cost implications.

• Scheduling & Timeline Management: Ability to develop, monitor, and manage project schedules to ensure timely delivery.

• Team Leadership & Management: Experience leading and developing teams of design professionals, fostering collaboration and high performance.

• Stakeholder Management: Excellent ability to interact with architects, consultants, district administrators, and other stakeholders to ensure project alignment and success.

• Regulatory Compliance: Deep understanding of building codes, seismic regulations, and public agency compliance requirements.

• Communication Skills: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills for clear and effective information exchange.

Preferred Skills:

• Seismic Retrofitting Expertise: Specialized knowledge and experience with seismic assessment, design, and retrofitting projects.

• Public Agency Project Experience: Direct experience managing projects within educational institutions or similar public sector environments.

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

• Infrastructure Management: Understanding of broader infrastructure management principles, especially as they relate to educational facilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The extensive experience requirement (14+ years) and the specific focus on educational facilities suggest a role that requires deep domain expertise and a strong understanding of public sector procurement and project delivery methodologies. For operations candidates, this implies a need to demonstrate a track record of managing complex, long-term initiatives with significant regulatory and compliance components, as well as experience in leading specialized technical teams.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Management Case Studies: Detailed examples of complex capital projects managed, showcasing scope, budget, timeline, and final outcomes. Specifically highlight projects involving seismic retrofits, critical repairs, or significant modernization.

• Design Review Process Documentation: Evidence of established or implemented design review processes, including checklists, templates, and examples of how compliance and quality were ensured.

• Budget Management & Cost Control: Demonstrations of budget adherence across multiple projects, including examples of cost-saving initiatives or successful budget management for large-scale construction projects.

• Team Leadership & Development Examples: Case studies or descriptions of how teams were built, managed, and developed to achieve project objectives, including examples of mentorship or performance improvement strategies.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Showcase experience in designing and optimizing workflows for architectural and engineering project lifecycles, from initial concept through final handover.

• Implementation & Automation Methods: Provide examples of how project delivery processes were implemented efficiently, and where applicable, how technology or automation tools were leveraged to improve outcomes or reduce manual effort in design management.

• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Demonstrate how project performance was measured against defined metrics (schedule, budget, quality, compliance) and how this data was used for continuous improvement or reporting.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio demonstrating structured project management, rigorous process adherence, and successful team leadership is crucial. Operations professionals should prepare to showcase how they have managed complex initiatives, implemented systematic improvements, and delivered measurable results, particularly in environments with stringent compliance requirements. The emphasis on "District's standards and guidelines" suggests a need to illustrate a capacity for working within established frameworks while driving efficiency.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Given the Senior Design Manager title, the extensive experience requirement (14+ years), and the location in Los Angeles, CA, a typical salary range for this role would be estimated between $150,000 - $200,000 annually. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for senior-level management positions in architecture, engineering, and construction project management within high-cost-of-living urban areas like Los Angeles. Factors influencing the exact salary would include the candidate's specific qualifications, professional licensure, and the precise scope of responsibilities within Think Power Solutions and its client engagements.

Benefits:

• Medical Plan: 100% employer-paid for employee-only coverage.

• Basic Life Insurance: 100% company-paid.

• Short-Term Disability: 100% company-paid.

• Vision Insurance: Optional coverage available.

• Dental Insurance: Optional coverage available.

• Long-Term Disability: Optional coverage available.

• Paid Holidays: 9 company-paid holidays.

• Paid Time Off (PTO): 10 days per year.

• Maternity Leave: 6 weeks paid at 100%.

• Paternity Leave: 1 week paid at 100%.

• Infertility Benefits: Up to $10,000 coverage.

• Adoption Assistance: Up to $5,000 coverage.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are expected, likely around 40 hours per week.

• The role may require working more than 40 hours per week, especially during critical project phases or to meet deadlines.

• Travel may be required, indicating a need for flexibility in schedule and location.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimation is based on publicly available data for Senior Design Managers and Project Directors in the Los Angeles metropolitan area, considering the specified experience level and the nature of managing large-scale infrastructure projects. The benefits package is comprehensive, with a strong emphasis on employer-paid health coverage and generous parental leave, which are attractive to professionals seeking long-term stability and work-life balance.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Infrastructure Management Solutions, Technology, Utilities, Telecom, Construction. Think Power Solutions operates as a tech-enabled provider, focusing on mission-critical infrastructure.

Company Size: Part of Think Power Solutions, which is certified as a Great Place to Work. This indicates a company culture that values employee well-being and engagement. The specific size of the PRIDE RESOURCE PARTNERS LLC division or the broader Think Power Solutions entity is not explicitly stated but the "Great Place to Work" certification suggests a significant, well-established organization.

Founded: Think Power Solutions was founded with a vision of exceptional client service, influenced by modern technology. The founding date is not specified but is implied to be recent enough to align with modern technology integration.

Team Structure:

• Operations Team Aspect 1: The role likely manages a team of architects, engineers, and potentially project coordinators focused on design and A&E services. The size could vary but implies direct reports.

• Operations Team Aspect 2: The Senior Design Manager will report to a higher-level executive within PRIDE RESOURCE PARTNERS LLC or Think Power Solutions, potentially a Director of Operations, VP of Engineering, or similar.

• Operations Team Aspect 3: This role requires extensive cross-functional collaboration with internal project managers, procurement, legal departments, and external stakeholders such as architects, consultants, contractors, and client representatives (likely LAUSD personnel).

Methodology:

• Data Analysis & Insights: Emphasis on using project data (budget, schedule, performance metrics) to inform decision-making, identify risks, and drive improvements in the design and delivery process.

• Workflow Planning & Optimization: A core function is to establish and refine processes for managing architectural and engineering services, ensuring efficiency and quality.

• Automation & Efficiency Practices: As a "tech-enabled" company, there's an expectation to leverage technology and innovative solutions to enhance project execution, client service, and internal operations.

Company Website: www.priderp.com (implied domain from the job listing, though not explicitly provided in input) or www.thinkpowersolutions.com.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Great Place to Work" certification and the description of Think Power Solutions as a "tech-enabled infrastructure management solutions provider" suggest a culture that balances innovation with robust operational processes. For operations professionals, this means a dynamic environment where data-driven decision-making and process optimization are valued, alongside a commitment to client service and employee development.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior-level management position, requiring extensive experience and demonstrated leadership in managing complex design and capital projects. It sits at the intersection of technical expertise (architecture/engineering) and operational management.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Design Manager will likely report to a Director or VP level executive within PRIDE RESOURCE PARTNERS LLC or Think Power Solutions, overseeing a team of design professionals. The role acts as a key liaison between strategic leadership and the execution of A&E services.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct and significant impact on the successful delivery of critical infrastructure projects. Effective management of design processes ensures that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality and compliance standards, which directly supports the operational capabilities of the client (e.g., LAUSD). This role contributes to the long-term value and functionality of client assets.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Potential to move into broader program management roles, overseeing multiple capital projects or entire portfolios.

• Leadership Development: Opportunity to lead larger teams, influence strategic direction for A&E services, and potentially manage P&L for specific service lines.

• Specialization Deepening: Further specialization in areas like sustainable design, advanced seismic retrofitting techniques, or infrastructure resilience.

• Cross-Functional Leadership: Potential to transition into roles managing integrated project delivery teams that combine design, construction, and operational readiness.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role represents a significant step in a career path focused on managing complex projects and teams within the infrastructure development and management sector. The blend of technical oversight and operational management offers a unique growth trajectory, particularly for those aiming for executive-level positions in construction, engineering, or facilities management.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is described as "On-site," indicating a primary work location within a company office. Given the nature of the work, this could be a corporate office or a project-specific site office.

Office Location(s): The primary location is Los Angeles, CA, with a specific street address provided (617 Arth Dr, Los Angeles, CA 92325 - note: postal code 92325 is for Crestline, CA, which is quite far from Los Angeles. This might be an error in the listing, or the role involves significant travel across a broad region). Travel is also mentioned as a requirement.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role requires significant interaction with internal teams, external consultants, and client representatives, fostering a collaborative, though likely fast-paced, work environment.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to standard office equipment, computers, and likely specialized project management software, CAD/BIM viewers, and financial management tools.

• Team Interaction: Frequent opportunities for direct interaction with direct reports, peers, and senior management to discuss project status, challenges, and strategic initiatives.

Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time hours (40+ per week) are expected.

• The need to "work more than 40 hours per week" suggests a demanding schedule, typical of large-scale project management, especially during critical phases.

• Flexibility will be required due to potential travel and project deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The location discrepancy (Los Angeles vs. 92325 postal code) is a point to clarify. The on-site requirement and potential for extended hours are typical for senior project management roles, emphasizing the need for strong time management and the ability to thrive in a deadline-driven environment.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and cover letter to assess experience alignment with the 14+ years requirement and specific project types.

• Technical/Managerial Interview: This stage will likely involve in-depth discussions about your experience in managing design, construction projects, team leadership, contract administration, and budget/schedule control. Expect questions related to seismic retrofitting and public agency projects.

• Portfolio Presentation: You may be asked to present a selection of your most relevant projects, detailing your role, challenges, solutions, and outcomes. Focus on quantifiable achievements.

• Behavioral & Situational Interviews: Questions designed to assess your leadership style, problem-solving abilities, conflict resolution skills, and how you handle pressure and navigate complex stakeholder relationships.

• Final Interview: Likely with senior leadership to assess cultural fit and strategic alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate for Relevance: Select 3-4 projects that best demonstrate your experience in managing large-scale infrastructure, seismic retrofits, critical repairs, and public sector/educational facilities.

• Quantify Achievements: For each project, clearly state the budget, timeline, team size, specific challenges, your role/responsibilities, the solutions implemented, and the quantifiable results (e.g., budget savings, schedule adherence, quality improvements, compliance met).

• Highlight Process: Explain the methodologies and processes you used for project planning, design review, risk management, and stakeholder communication.

• Showcase Leadership: Provide examples of how you led and motivated teams, managed consultants, and resolved complex issues.

• Prepare for Specifics: Be ready to discuss your experience with California building codes, seismic design principles, and public agency procurement processes.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Anticipate questions like: "How would you handle a significant design change request that impacts the budget by 15%?" or "Describe a time you had to manage conflicting priorities between stakeholders on a critical project."

• Process Improvement Scenarios: Be prepared to discuss how you would approach optimizing the design review process for a new type of project or addressing a recurring issue identified in past projects.

• Team Management Scenarios: Questions on motivating underperforming team members, resolving disputes between consultants, or onboarding new team members.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process will heavily scrutinize your past project experience and demonstrated ability to manage complex, regulated projects. A well-prepared portfolio that clearly articulates your operational methodologies and quantifiable successes is paramount. Think about how your experience aligns with delivering value and managing risk in public infrastructure projects.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency with industry-standard tools such as Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Asana, Monday.com, or similar for planning, scheduling, and tracking project progress.

• CAD/BIM Software: Familiarity with viewing and understanding architectural and engineering drawings produced in AutoCAD, Revit, or similar platforms. Direct design proficiency is not expected, but the ability to interpret technical drawings is essential.

• Document Management Systems: Experience with platforms for storing, organizing, and sharing project documentation (e.g., Procore, Bentley ProjectWise, SharePoint).

• Financial Management Tools: Familiarity with systems for budget tracking, cost estimating, and invoice processing, potentially integrated with ERP systems.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Spreadsheet Software: Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets for data analysis, budget tracking, and reporting.

• Business Intelligence (BI) Tools: Experience with BI tools like Tableau, Power BI, or QlikView for creating dashboards and visualizing project performance metrics.

• Reporting Tools: Ability to generate clear, concise reports for senior management and stakeholders on project status, risks, and financial health.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how project data integrates with client relationship management systems might be beneficial.

• Experience with workflow automation tools could be advantageous for streamlining internal processes related to design approvals, documentation, or team communication.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this role is not a traditional "operations" role focused on CRM or sales enablement, it requires a strong command of project management technologies and data analytics tools. The ability to leverage technology to manage complex projects, track performance, and communicate effectively is key. Familiarity with tools used in the AEC (Architecture, Engineering, Construction) industry is a significant plus.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Execution: A commitment to delivering high-quality design and construction outcomes that meet or exceed client expectations and regulatory standards.

• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding ethical standards in all dealings and taking ownership of project success and challenges.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive environment where team members and external partners work together effectively to achieve common goals.

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: Embracing new technologies and methodologies to enhance project delivery, efficiency, and sustainability.

• Client-Centricity: A dedication to understanding and meeting the specific needs of clients, such as LAUSD, ensuring their operational requirements are fully supported by the infrastructure delivered.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role necessitates seamless collaboration with various internal departments (e.g., project management, finance, legal) and external entities (architects, engineers, consultants, client representatives).

• Process Review Culture: An open approach to reviewing and refining design and project management processes, encouraging feedback from team members and partners to identify areas for improvement.

• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting a culture where best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise are shared among team members and across projects to elevate overall performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "Great Place to Work" and Think Power Solutions' client-centric philosophy suggests a culture that values both high performance and a positive work environment. Operations professionals should be prepared to demonstrate how they embody these values in their daily work and leadership approach.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Complex Stakeholder Needs: Balancing the diverse requirements and expectations of multiple stakeholders, including client representatives, design teams, and internal management.

• Navigating Regulatory Landscapes: Ensuring strict compliance with evolving building codes, seismic regulations, and public agency procurement rules, which can be complex and time-consuming.

• Budgetary Constraints & Scope Creep: Effectively managing project budgets, controlling costs, and mitigating scope creep while ensuring project objectives are met.

• Team Management & Development: Leading and motivating a team of highly skilled professionals, potentially across different locations or projects, and fostering their professional growth.

• Technological Integration: Adapting to and leveraging new technologies in design and project management to improve efficiency and outcomes.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Project Management Certifications: Pursuing certifications like PMP (Project Management Professional) or specialized construction/engineering management credentials.

• Industry Conferences & Seminars: Attending events focused on seismic retrofitting, sustainable design, construction technology, and public infrastructure development.

• Mentorship Programs: Opportunities to be mentored by senior leaders or to mentor junior team members, fostering leadership skills.

• Exposure to Diverse Projects: Gaining experience across a range of infrastructure projects, broadening technical and managerial expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges inherent to large-scale infrastructure projects, particularly in a regulated environment. However, these challenges are also ripe with opportunities for professional growth, skill development, and making a tangible impact on critical infrastructure.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to managing a capital project with a budget exceeding $50 million, focusing on risk mitigation and stakeholder alignment."

• "How do you ensure architectural and engineering designs meet both functional requirements and stringent regulatory compliance, particularly in seismic zones?"

• "Walk us through your process for selecting and managing external architectural and engineering consultants. What are the key performance indicators you track?" Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Think Power Solutions and our approach to tech-enabled infrastructure management?"

• "How do you foster a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement within your design and project management teams?"

• "Describe a time you had to implement a significant change in process or technology. What was the impact, and how did you manage resistance?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each case study, follow a clear structure: Project Overview -> Your Role & Responsibilities -> Key Challenges -> Solutions Implemented -> Quantifiable Results -> Lessons Learned.

• Focus on Operations Impact: Emphasize how your management of the design process directly contributed to operational efficiency, cost savings, risk reduction, or improved functionality for the end-user.

• Data-Driven Storytelling: Use metrics and data points to support your claims about project success and your contributions.

• Visual Aids: Prepare clear, concise slides or visuals that illustrate project scope, timelines, and key achievements. Avoid overly technical jargon unless essential.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate follow-up questions on specific aspects of your projects, your decision-making process, and your leadership style.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on translating your extensive project management experience into operational impact. Be ready to discuss not just the technical aspects of design and construction, but also the strategic management, process optimization, and team leadership required to deliver successful, compliant infrastructure projects.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations management position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the recruiting platform.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight your 14+ years of experience in facilities design, capital project management, and specifically your work with seismic retrofits, critical repairs, and public agencies. Use keywords from the job description such as "design review," "contract administration," "cost estimating," "scheduling," and "regulatory compliance." Quantify your achievements with numbers and metrics wherever possible.

• Portfolio Customization: Prepare a portfolio that showcases 3-4 of your most relevant projects. For each project, clearly detail your role, responsibilities, challenges, solutions, and quantifiable outcomes. Focus on projects that demonstrate your ability to manage complex, large-scale initiatives within budget and on schedule, especially those involving seismic retrofitting or public sector clients.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions. Prepare detailed examples for your portfolio presentation, focusing on your leadership, problem-solving, and process management skills. Research Think Power Solutions and PRIDE RESOURCE PARTNERS LLC to understand their mission, values, and client base.

• Company Research: Understand the context of the role, likely serving clients like the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD). Research common challenges in public infrastructure projects, such as budget constraints, regulatory hurdles, and community engagement. This will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate strategic thinking.

⚠️ 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.