Senior Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Design Manager

Company: Redwood Materials

Location: McCarran, NV (Reno Area)

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Engineering & Construction Operations

Date Posted: May 28, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Level to Senior (5+ years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage comprehensive design and engineering initiatives for critical infrastructure and manufacturing facility development, ensuring strategic alignment with Redwood Materials' ambitious scaling objectives and localization of the battery supply chain.

• Drive cross-functional collaboration, integrating Process Engineering, Manufacturing, Facilities, and Production teams to translate complex stakeholder requirements into actionable project plans, documentation, and execution strategies.

• Oversee the entire project lifecycle for infrastructure and tool installation projects, from conceptualization and feasibility through design, permitting, construction, and final implementation, ensuring adherence to aggressive timelines and high-quality standards.

• Champion innovative design methodologies, including lean construction principles and Building Information Modeling (BIM), to optimize project delivery, enhance efficiency, and support the rapid deployment of manufacturing capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is Senior Design Manager, the responsibilities and desired qualifications suggest a role that bridges design engineering, project management, and construction oversight, often found in operational engineering or EPC (Engineering, Procurement, Construction) management functions. The focus on "infrastructure and tool install" within a fast-growing manufacturing environment indicates a strong emphasis on operational efficiency and scalability.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Spearhead the translation of stakeholder requirements into clear, documented project objectives, meticulously managing scope to accommodate a dynamic operational environment and aggressive project timelines.

• Manage and lead infrastructure and tool install projects through all stages: conceptualization, feasibility studies, funding proposals, detailed design (30%/60%/90%/IFC), change management processes, and engineering support during the construction phase.

• Oversee the management of construction and permitting documents, including document transmittals, Requests for Information (RFIs), and other critical project communications with external partners and internal teams.

• Facilitate and manage the intake of customer requests and project requirements from all site teams, ensuring a structured approach to project initiation and prioritization.

• Lead and own the project funding request process for significant infrastructure improvements, preparing comprehensive proposals that justify investment and outline projected ROI.

• Coordinate closely with Procurement and Construction partners to integrate key project schedule requirements, ensuring the overall schedule success and timely delivery of projects.

• Identify resource requirements across project stages, proactively highlight gaps and constraints, and influence cross-functional teams outside of direct reporting lines to secure necessary support and mitigate risks.

• Cultivate and maintain robust relationships with diverse cross-functional teams (e.g., Process Engineering, Manufacturing, Facilities, Production) to ensure consistent program alignment and effective communication.

• Define and implement project delivery strategies, including Design-Bid-Build, Integrated Project Development, and fast-track project methodologies, tailored to Redwood Materials' operational needs.

• Champion the adoption and integration of lean construction principles and fully integrated design processes utilizing Building Information Modeling (BIM) to enhance collaboration and project predictability.

• Implement innovative engineering and design methodologies to support extremely aggressive program and construction schedules, driving efficiency and speed to market.

• Support and lead feasibility studies, value engineering efforts, and comprehensive options analysis to ensure optimal project design and cost-effectiveness.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a hands-on, highly collaborative approach to managing complex, multi-disciplinary engineering and construction projects within a rapidly scaling manufacturing context. The role requires not just technical oversight but also strong leadership in communication, stakeholder management, and strategic planning to drive project execution.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Architectural, Civil, Mechanical, Chemical, or Electrical Engineering.

Experience:

• Minimum of 5 years of experience managing multi-disciplinary scopes within Architectural/Engineering (A/E) or Design Engineering firms.

• Demonstrated experience designing manufacturing facilities and site infrastructure, including tool installation, utilities, and equipment integration.

Required Skills:

• Project Management: Expertise in managing complex, multi-disciplinary engineering and construction projects from inception to completion.

• Infrastructure Design: Proven ability to design and oversee the development of site infrastructure, manufacturing facilities, and utility systems.

• Engineering Management: Capacity to understand and manage various engineering disciplines to ensure effective project execution.

• Construction Management: Familiarity with construction processes, permitting, and managing construction activities, including RFI and transmittal management.

• Building Information Modeling (BIM): Understanding and ideally experience with BIM for integrated design and project visualization.

• Lean Construction Principles: Knowledge of lean methodologies to optimize construction efficiency and reduce waste.

• Change Management: Ability to manage scope changes effectively within a dynamic project environment.

• Value Engineering: Experience in identifying cost-saving opportunities and optimizing project value without compromising quality.

• Permitting & Jurisdictions: Familiarity with working with building codes, local jurisdictions, and managing permitting processes.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Strong ability to build and maintain relationships and influence teams across different departments and reporting structures.

Preferred Skills:

• PE (Professional Engineer) or RA (Registered Architect) License.

• Experience managing projects using Design-Bid-Build, Integrated Project Development, and Fast-Track methodologies.

• Experience with customer request management and translating needs into project scope.

• Familiarity with battery manufacturing processes and supply chains.

• Ability to effectively execute multiple projects and tasks in parallel.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Desired Qualifications" highlight a preference for licensed professionals and specific project delivery methodologies, indicating a need for candidates who can hit the ground running with established best practices in industrial facility design and construction management. The emphasis on "5 years’ experience desired" combined with "Senior" in the title suggests a role requiring both hands-on technical expertise and leadership capabilities.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a portfolio showcasing successful management of multi-disciplinary infrastructure and manufacturing facility design projects, highlighting scope, complexity, and scale.

• Include case studies that illustrate your ability to translate complex stakeholder requirements into clear project objectives and documented scope.

• Present examples of project documentation, including design packages (30%/60%/90%/IFC), transmittals, and RFIs, showcasing your attention to detail and process adherence.

Process Documentation:

• Showcase your proficiency in documenting project processes, from initial concept and feasibility studies through to design, permitting, and construction engineering support.

• Examples of workflow design and optimization for fast-track projects or those employing lean construction principles are highly valued.

• Demonstrate experience in establishing and managing process for RFI responses, transmittal tracking, and change management within construction projects.

• Include documentation that illustrates your approach to managing engineering resources across various disciplines and project stages.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is crucial for this role, not just to showcase completed projects but to demonstrate a structured approach to managing complex engineering and construction processes, especially within a fast-paced, evolving industrial environment. Candidates should be prepared to walk through their portfolio and explain their methodologies for scope management, stakeholder engagement, and process documentation.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Retirement savings plan (e.g., 401(k)) with potential company match.

• Paid time off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses or stock options.

• Opportunities for professional development, training, and certifications.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours are expected, typically 40 hours per week. However, due to the project-driven nature of the role and aggressive schedules, flexibility may be required, potentially including occasional extended hours or weekend work to meet critical project deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on typical compensation for senior-level engineering and project management roles in industrial construction and manufacturing within the Nevada region. Benefits are standard for a company of Redwood Materials' scale and industry, focusing on employee well-being and long-term growth. The mention of "aggressive schedules" implies a need for candidates comfortable with demanding work environments.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Battery Recycling and Sustainable Energy Storage Materials. Redwood Materials is at the forefront of localizing a global battery supply chain, integrating recovery, reuse, and recycling to keep critical minerals in circulation and drive the energy transition. This industry context means a focus on innovation, sustainability, and rapid scaling.

Company Size: Redwood Materials is a rapidly growing company, indicated by its recent funding rounds and expansion efforts, likely ranging from 500-1000+ employees, with significant planned growth in its engineering and operations teams. This size suggests a dynamic, fast-paced environment with opportunities for impact.

Founded: 2017. Founded relatively recently, Redwood Materials is a scale-up company, which often translates to a culture valuing agility, problem-solving, and a "build-it-as-we-go" mentality.

Team Structure:

• The Senior Design Manager will likely be part of the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) team, which is a critical function for scaling manufacturing operations. This team is expected to be multi-disciplinary, comprising various engineering disciplines, project managers, and construction specialists.

• Reporting structure will likely be to a Director or VP of Engineering/EPC, with direct management or significant influence over design engineers, drafters, and potentially external A/E firms.

Methodology:

• Data Analysis & Insights: Design decisions will be informed by feasibility studies, value engineering, and performance metrics from existing infrastructure.

• Workflow Planning & Optimization: Emphasis on lean construction principles, BIM integration, and fast-track project methodologies to optimize planning and execution.

• Automation & Efficiency: Implementing innovative design to support automation within manufacturing processes and streamline construction timelines.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Redwood Materials operates in a high-growth, mission-driven sector. Candidates should expect a culture that values speed, innovation, and a hands-on approach to problem-solving, especially within the engineering and operations functions. The company's focus on sustainability and localization will likely permeate its operational ethos.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a "Senior" level, indicating a need for experienced professionals who can independently manage complex projects and influence cross-functional teams. It represents a significant step up from a Design Engineer or Project Engineer, requiring broader leadership and strategic input.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Design Manager will likely report to a Director or VP within the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) department. They will have significant responsibility for managing external design partners and coordinating internal resources, providing a strong platform for demonstrating leadership and strategic impact.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct and substantial impact on Redwood Materials' ability to scale its operations. Effective design and timely infrastructure development are paramount to increasing production capacity, improving efficiency, and reducing costs in battery material manufacturing and recycling. Success in this role directly contributes to the company's mission of localizing the battery supply chain and driving the energy transition.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to move into roles such as Director of Design, Director of EPC, or Head of Infrastructure Development as the company continues to expand.

• Specialization & Expertise: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific areas of industrial facility design, battery manufacturing infrastructure, or sustainable supply chain development.

• Program Management: Transition to managing larger, more complex, or multiple simultaneous large-scale programs and capital projects.

• Mentorship: Opportunity to mentor junior engineers and project managers, contributing to the development of the internal engineering talent pool.

📝 Enhancement Note: The Senior Design Manager role is a critical position within a rapidly expanding company. The growth trajectory is likely steep, offering significant opportunities for individuals who can demonstrate strong project execution, cross-functional leadership, and a commitment to the company's mission.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based at Redwood Materials' factory in the Tahoe Reno Industrial Center (TRIC), McCarran, Nevada. This indicates an industrial campus environment, likely a mix of office space for engineering and project management teams, and direct access to manufacturing and construction sites.

Office Location(s): The primary location is TRIC, McCarran, NV, which is part of the greater Reno, Nevada area. This location offers a significant industrial hub with infrastructure supporting large-scale manufacturing.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Expect a highly collaborative workspace where engineers, project managers, and operations personnel work closely together. This includes frequent site visits to active construction zones and manufacturing floors.

• Tools & Technology: Access to standard engineering design software, project management tools, and potentially advanced visualization tools like BIM platforms. The company's focus on innovation suggests a willingness to adopt effective technologies.

• Team Interaction: Significant opportunities for interaction with diverse internal teams (Process Eng., Manufacturing, Facilities) and external partners (A/E firms, contractors, vendors). The environment will demand strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Work Schedule: This is a full-time, on-site position. While standard office hours apply, the nature of construction and manufacturing projects, especially with aggressive schedules, may necessitate flexibility, including occasional overtime or weekend work to ensure project milestones are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should be comfortable working in an industrial setting that requires frequent interaction with manufacturing operations and active construction sites. The "can-do" mindset and ability to thrive under pressure are key indicators of suitability for this dynamic work environment.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and potentially a brief phone screen with an HR representative or recruiter to assess basic qualifications and interest.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A more in-depth discussion with the hiring manager (likely a Director or VP of Engineering/EPC) focusing on your experience in infrastructure design, project management, and leadership. Be prepared to discuss specific projects from your portfolio.

• Technical/Panel Interview: This may involve meeting with key stakeholders from Process Engineering, Manufacturing, and Construction teams. Expect technical questions related to design principles, construction methodologies, and problem-solving scenarios. You may be asked to present a specific project from your portfolio.

• Portfolio Review Session: A dedicated session where you will present 1-2 key projects from your portfolio, detailing challenges, your approach, solutions implemented, and outcomes achieved. Focus on demonstrating your process, decision-making, and impact.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader in the organization to assess cultural fit, strategic thinking, and long-term potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Select Diverse Projects: Choose projects that showcase a range of skills: infrastructure development, manufacturing facility design, tool installation, and complex problem-solving.

• Quantify Results: For each project, highlight key metrics such as budget adherence, schedule adherence, cost savings achieved through value engineering, and efficiency improvements post-installation.

• Structure Your Narrative: For each case study, clearly articulate the problem, your approach/strategy, the actions taken, and the measurable results. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) as a guide.

• Focus on Process: Emphasize your role in managing scope, translating requirements, coordinating cross-functional teams, and documenting processes (e.g., RFIs, transmittals, change orders).

• Demonstrate Collaboration: Highlight how you worked with different teams and external partners, and how you influenced outcomes.

• Tailor to Redwood Materials: If possible, draw parallels between your past projects and the challenges Redwood Materials aims to solve, such as rapid scaling of manufacturing infrastructure.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for scenario-based questions: "How would you handle a critical design change request mid-project?", "How would you manage conflicting requirements between two different departments?", "How would you prioritize multiple urgent infrastructure requests?".

• Practice articulating your thought process for complex problems, focusing on structured problem-solving, risk assessment, and stakeholder communication.

• Review common A/E/C project management challenges and be ready to discuss your strategies for overcoming them.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to evaluate not only technical expertise but also problem-solving skills, communication abilities, and cultural fit within a fast-paced, demanding environment. A well-prepared portfolio presentation is critical for demonstrating practical application of skills.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency in industry-standard CAD software such as AutoCAD, Revit (especially for BIM), or similar platforms for design and drafting.

• Project Management Software: Experience with tools like Procore, Autodesk Construction Cloud, Microsoft Project, Asana, or Jira for managing project schedules, documentation, and communication.

• BIM Software: Familiarity with BIM platforms for integrated design, collaboration, and visualization (e.g., Revit, Navisworks).

• Collaboration Platforms: Tools such as Microsoft Teams, Slack, or Google Workspace for day-to-day communication and team collaboration.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Experience with generating and interpreting project performance reports, including budget tracking, schedule adherence, and resource allocation.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design and infrastructure projects integrate with broader operational systems and workflows is beneficial. Experience with workflow automation principles in project management is a plus.

• Familiarity with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems or capital project management software that track project financials and resources.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific tools aren't listed, the role's responsibilities imply a need for proficiency in core engineering design software, robust project management platforms, and collaboration tools. Experience with BIM and lean construction principles suggests familiarity with integrated project delivery technologies.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Speed and Agility: A strong emphasis on rapid execution and adaptability in a fast-growing company. Designs need to be implemented quickly to support aggressive production targets.

• Innovation and Problem-Solving: A culture that encourages creative solutions to complex engineering and construction challenges.

• Collaboration and Teamwork: High value placed on cross-functional cooperation and building strong relationships across diverse teams and external partners.

• Sustainability and Mission Alignment: A shared commitment to Redwood Materials' mission of creating a sustainable battery supply chain.

• Data-Driven Decision-Making: Designs and project plans are expected to be supported by data from feasibility studies, value engineering, and performance metrics.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive Communication: Essential for managing diverse stakeholders and ensuring alignment across departments.

• Integrated Approach: Working closely with manufacturing and process engineering teams from the early design stages to ensure practical implementation and operational efficiency.

• Feedback Culture: Openness to feedback from all levels and teams to refine designs and processes.

• Cross-functional Integration: The role requires bridging gaps between design, construction, and operations, fostering a cohesive project environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should demonstrate a proactive, collaborative, and results-oriented approach, aligning with a culture that values speed, innovation, and a shared mission. The ability to thrive in a fast-paced, evolving environment is paramount.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Aggressive Schedules & Rapid Scaling: Balancing the need for speed with maintaining high-quality design and construction standards in a rapidly expanding manufacturing environment.

• Translating Requirements: Effectively distilling complex, sometimes evolving, requirements from various stakeholders into clear, actionable design documents.

• Cross-functional Influence: Managing and influencing teams and priorities outside of direct reporting lines to ensure project success.

• Ambiguity: Navigating uncertainties inherent in a fast-growing company and new technology development.

• Resource Management: Identifying and securing necessary resources (human, material, financial) for multiple concurrent projects.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Industry Expertise: Deepen knowledge in advanced battery manufacturing infrastructure, sustainability in industrial design, and large-scale EPC project management.

• Leadership Skills: Develop advanced leadership and stakeholder management capabilities within a high-growth organization.

• Technology Adoption: Gain experience with cutting-edge design and construction technologies like advanced BIM applications and lean construction methodologies.

• Strategic Impact: Contribute significantly to Redwood Materials' mission and growth, gaining visibility and potential for rapid career advancement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for senior roles in rapidly scaling industrial companies. The growth opportunities are substantial, offering a clear path for career progression for individuals who can successfully navigate these challenges.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to manage conflicting requirements from different departments. How did you resolve it?" (Focus on your process for requirement gathering, prioritization, and stakeholder negotiation.)

• "Walk me through a complex infrastructure project you managed from concept to completion. What were the key challenges, and how did you overcome them?" (Be ready to present 1-2 projects from your portfolio in detail.)

• "How do you ensure design specifications meet the needs of both manufacturing operations and construction feasibility?" (Highlight your understanding of the full lifecycle and cross-functional dependencies.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Redwood Materials' mission and our role in the battery supply chain?" (Research the company's mission, recent news, and role in sustainability.)

• "How do you handle working in a fast-paced, sometimes ambiguous, startup/scale-up environment?" (Emphasize your adaptability, problem-solving skills, and "can-do" attitude.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: For each project, clearly present the context, your role, the challenge, the solution (design choices, process implemented), and the measurable results (schedule, cost, performance).

• Visuals: Use high-quality images, diagrams, or renderings where appropriate to illustrate your designs and project scope.

• Focus on Process & Impact: Emphasize how you managed the project and the tangible benefits your work delivered to the organization. Quantify wherever possible.

• Engagement: Be prepared to answer detailed questions about your decisions, technical approaches, and management strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not just technical competency but also strategic thinking, leadership potential, and a strong cultural fit for a fast-paced, mission-driven company. The portfolio presentation is a critical component for showcasing practical experience and impact.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the official Redwood Materials careers portal (likely via the provided Greenhouse link).

• Portfolio Customization: Curate your resume and portfolio to highlight experience in industrial facility design, infrastructure development, large-scale project management, and cross-functional team leadership, with specific examples relevant to manufacturing and construction.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly articulates your experience with key skills like BIM, lean construction, permitting, value engineering, and managing multi-disciplinary teams, using keywords from the job description. Quantify your achievements whenever possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your project management methodology, problem-solving approaches, and your understanding of Redwood Materials' mission. Prepare to present 1-2 key projects from your portfolio in detail.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Redwood Materials' mission, industry position, recent developments, and company culture to demonstrate your genuine interest and alignment. Understand their role in battery recycling and the energy transition.

⚠️ 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.