Senior Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Design Manager

Company: Redwood Materials

Location: McCarran, NV / San Francisco, California, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Engineering & Construction Operations

Date Posted: July 24, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead comprehensive design and engineering efforts for Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) infrastructure, from conceptualization through to production readiness.

• Drive the execution of both greenfield and brownfield capital improvement projects with an emphasis on speed, quality, and aggressive timelines.

• Manage cross-functional teams and external stakeholders to ensure alignment on project scope, funding, and schedules for infrastructure development.

• Uphold lean construction principles and integrate Building Information Modeling (BIM) for fully integrated design processes.

• Act as a key point of contact for internal and external partners, facilitating clear communication and efficient decision-making throughout the project lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is critical within Redwood Materials' Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) team, focusing on the rapid scaling of their battery supply chain. The emphasis on speed, detail orientation, and cross-functional influence suggests a highly dynamic and results-driven operations environment. The specific mention of BESS points to a specialized area within industrial infrastructure operations.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage the complete design and engineering lifecycle for infrastructure and equipment installation projects, specifically for Redwood's BESS, including conceptualization, feasibility studies, funding approvals, 30%/60%/90%/IFC design phases, change management, and engineering support during construction.

• Serve as the primary liaison for internal stakeholders (e.g., Operations, Procurement, Manufacturing) and external parties (e.g., vendors, contractors, permitting authorities) to ensure seamless communication and project progression.

• Manage the entire process of permitting and construction documentation, ensuring timely transmittal to all relevant parties for approval and execution.

• Take ownership of the design funding and schedule for all assigned projects, meticulously tracking progress against budget and timeline objectives.

• Coordinate critical project schedule requirements with Procurement and Construction partners to ensure overall project success and on-time delivery.

• Proactively identify project resource needs, anticipate potential gaps and constraints, and influence teams outside of direct reporting lines to secure necessary resources and resolve roadblocks.

• Foster and maintain robust relationships with diverse cross-functional teams to ensure program-wide alignment and support for BESS deployment initiatives.

• Champion the understanding and application of lean construction principles and fully integrated design methodologies, including the effective use of Building Information Modeling (BIM).

• Support and lead feasibility studies, value engineering efforts, and comprehensive options analysis to optimize project outcomes and cost-effectiveness.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong emphasis on project lifecycle management, stakeholder engagement, and proactive problem-solving. The need to "influence various teams outside of direct reporting structure" and "pull people together to make things happen" underscores the collaborative and leadership aspects of this operations-focused role, requiring strong interpersonal and negotiation skills alongside technical expertise.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Engineering, with a strong preference for Electrical Engineering.

• Equivalent experience in the electrical engineering field will be considered.

• Professional Engineer (PE) or Registered Architect (RA) License is preferred. Experience:

• A minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience is desired, with a focus on commercial or industrial electrical installations and electricity distribution systems.

• Experience managing multi-disciplinary scopes within Architecture/Engineering (A/E) or Design Engineering firms is highly valued.

• Project management and/or Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) experience is essential for this role. Required Skills:

• Deep understanding of grid-scale energy storage technologies and balance-of-plant equipment (e.g., inverters, transformers, switchgear, HVAC, fire suppression).

• Strong working knowledge of electrical system design, interconnection requirements, and utility-scale project execution.

• Familiarity with relevant industry standards and codes, including UL 9540/1973/1741, IEEE, NEC, NFPA, and IEC.

• Proficiency in managing permitting processes and construction documentation.

• Ability to prioritize and execute multiple tasks concurrently with exceptional attention to detail and quality decision-making.

• Proven ability to build and maintain strong cross-functional relationships and influence stakeholders.

• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal. Preferred Skills:

• Knowledge of battery systems, electrical protection, power conversion, medium and high voltage systems, communication systems, and control systems.

• Experience with lean construction principles and Building Information Modeling (BIM).

• Experience supporting or leading feasibility studies and value engineering efforts.

• Knowledge of local codes and regulations pertaining to electrical installations and energy storage.

• Experience working in fast-paced, ambiguous environments and thriving under pressure.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of deep technical expertise in electrical engineering and energy storage systems with robust project management and leadership capabilities. The preference for a PE/RA license and specific standards like UL 9540 indicates a need for candidates with a strong foundation in regulatory compliance and safety protocols within the energy sector.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrated experience in managing the full design lifecycle of infrastructure projects, from conceptualization through to final construction documents (e.g., 30%/60%/90%/IFC).

• Case studies showcasing successful BESS or similar large-scale electrical infrastructure projects, highlighting your role in design, permitting, and construction coordination.

• Evidence of managing project budgets and schedules, with a focus on delivering within defined financial and time constraints.

• Examples of process optimization initiatives or improvements implemented in previous design or construction management roles.

• Documentation illustrating your approach to cross-functional collaboration and stakeholder management in complex project environments. Process Documentation:

• Showcase your methodology for managing design phases, including the review and approval processes for engineering deliverables.

• Provide examples of how you have coordinated with procurement and construction teams to integrate design with supply chain and build activities.

• Illustrate your approach to identifying and mitigating project risks, particularly those related to permitting, technical specifications, and resource allocation.

• Detail your experience with lean construction principles and the application of BIM for enhanced design integration and clash detection.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, a portfolio should not only showcase technical design capabilities but also the ability to manage complex, multi-disciplinary projects within aggressive timelines. Emphasis should be placed on demonstrating leadership in coordinating diverse teams, managing budgets and schedules, and navigating the permitting and construction phases of large-scale industrial or energy infrastructure projects.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $132,500 - $175,000 USD per year. This range is provided in accordance with California pay transparency laws. Actual compensation will be determined based on a variety of factors including experience, education, skills, and location.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.

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

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

• Opportunities for professional development, training, and continuing education.

• Potential for stock options or equity participation, reflecting the company's growth trajectory.

• Access to cutting-edge technology and resources to support innovation and project success. Working Hours:

• This is a full-time position.

• Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, with potential for extended hours or weekend work during critical project phases, reflecting the demanding nature of infrastructure development and aggressive project timelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is specific to California, reflecting the state's pay transparency laws. While the role is listed with McCarran, NV and San Francisco, CA locations, the salary is anchored to California. Candidates should note that compensation will be commensurate with experience and may vary. Benefits are standard for a full-time role in the tech/manufacturing sector, with an emphasis on professional growth opportunities aligning with the company's rapid expansion.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Battery Materials & Recycling / Energy Transition

Company Size: Growing rapidly, with indications of significant investment and expansion. The company was founded in 2017, suggesting a relatively young but fast-evolving organization.

Founded: 2017. Redwood Materials is focused on localizing a global battery supply chain, integrating recovery, reuse, and recycling to keep critical minerals in circulation and drive the energy transition.

Team Structure:

• The role sits within the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) team, which is central to Redwood's rapid infrastructure development.

• This team likely comprises various engineering disciplines, project managers, procurement specialists, and construction coordinators.

• Collaboration is expected across operations, manufacturing, R&D, and supply chain departments to ensure integrated project delivery. Methodology:

• Emphasis on designing and building infrastructure at "record speed" to enable global scaling.

• Commitment to lean construction principles and integrated design using Building Information Modeling (BIM).

• Data-driven decision-making is implied by the focus on optimizing processes and driving efficiency in manufacturing and recycling operations.

• A culture of innovation and problem-solving is essential given the company's mission to revolutionize battery supply chains.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Redwood Materials operates at the forefront of the sustainable energy transition, focusing on creating a closed-loop battery supply chain. This mission drives a culture of urgency, innovation, and collaboration. The EPC team's role is crucial in translating this mission into tangible, large-scale operational facilities.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior Management within Engineering & Construction Operations. This role requires significant experience in managing complex, multi-disciplinary projects from inception through completion. It signifies a move into a leadership position where strategic oversight and cross-functional influence are paramount.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Design Manager likely reports to a Director or Vice President of EPC or Engineering. They will manage external design teams and influence internal cross-functional teams without direct reporting authority.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct and substantial impact on Redwood Materials' ability to scale its operations rapidly. Successful design and engineering management of BESS infrastructure are critical for increasing production capacity, improving efficiency, and achieving cost targets in battery material production and recycling. The speed and quality of design directly influence the speed of operational expansion and market competitiveness.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to move into Director-level roles overseeing larger program portfolios or broader EPC functions as the company continues its aggressive expansion.

• Specialization Development: Deepen expertise in advanced BESS technologies, grid integration, and sustainable manufacturing infrastructure design.

• Strategic Influence: Contribute to the strategic planning and execution of Redwood's global infrastructure roadmap, influencing key decisions on technology adoption and facility development.

• Mentorship: Opportunity to mentor junior engineers and project managers, fostering the next generation of talent within Redwood's operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a significant opportunity for career growth within a rapidly expanding, mission-driven company. The experience gained in managing large-scale, fast-paced infrastructure projects in the battery sector is highly valuable for future leadership roles in operations and engineering management.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This position is primarily on-site, requiring active presence at project sites and corporate offices in McCarran, NV, and potentially San Francisco, CA.

Office Location(s):

• McCarran, NV (near Reno): Likely serves as a primary hub for operations and manufacturing facilities.

• San Francisco, CA: May serve as a corporate or administrative office. Workspace Context:

• A dynamic and fast-paced environment characterized by aggressive project timelines and the need for rapid decision-making.

• Expect a blend of office-based work for design management and stakeholder coordination, alongside site visits to construction locations for oversight and problem-solving.

• Access to project management software, design tools (including BIM), and communication platforms will be standard.

• Collaboration will be a key aspect, involving frequent interactions with engineering teams, construction partners, and internal operations stakeholders. Work Schedule:

• Full-time position with a standard 40-hour work week.

• Due to the nature of construction and aggressive project schedules, flexibility for occasional extended hours or weekend work may be required to meet critical deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature of this role is essential for effective project oversight, stakeholder engagement, and addressing site-specific challenges inherent in large-scale infrastructure development. Candidates should be prepared for a demanding work environment that values agility and hands-on involvement.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

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

• Technical Interview: Likely involves discussions with engineering leads or senior managers focusing on your technical expertise in BESS, electrical systems, codes, and project management methodologies. Be prepared to discuss specific design challenges and solutions.

• Cross-functional/Leadership Interview: An assessment of your ability to manage cross-functional teams, influence stakeholders, and navigate complex organizational dynamics. Questions may focus on conflict resolution, prioritization, and communication strategies.

• Portfolio Review/Case Study: You may be asked to present specific projects from your portfolio, detailing your role, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented, and the outcomes achieved. Focus on quantifiable results and process improvements.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership to discuss strategic alignment, cultural fit, and long-term career aspirations within Redwood Materials.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight BESS Expertise: Showcase projects specifically related to Battery Energy Storage Systems, large-scale electrical infrastructure, or industrial facility design and construction.

• Quantify Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the scale, budget, timeline, and your specific contributions. Use metrics to demonstrate success (e.g., cost savings, schedule adherence, risk mitigation, efficiency improvements).

• Demonstrate Process Management: Detail your approach to managing design phases (30%/60%/90%/IFC), permitting, change management, and construction support.

• Showcase Collaboration: Include examples of how you successfully managed diverse teams, resolved conflicts, and influenced stakeholders to achieve project goals.

• Structure for Clarity: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or by the phase of the project lifecycle you managed. Be prepared to walk through key projects concisely.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Anticipate questions asking how you would handle specific project challenges, such as design conflicts, permitting delays, or resource constraints.

• Prioritization Exercises: Be ready to explain your method for prioritizing tasks, projects, and resources in a high-pressure, multi-project environment.

• Technical Problem Solving: Prepare to discuss how you approach complex technical problems related to electrical systems, BESS components, or site integration.

• Lean Construction/BIM Application: Be prepared to discuss practical applications of lean construction principles and BIM in project design and execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely be rigorous, focusing on both technical depth and leadership capabilities. A well-prepared portfolio that clearly demonstrates experience in managing large-scale BESS or electrical infrastructure projects, with a strong emphasis on process management and cross-functional collaboration, will be crucial for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Tools like Procore, Autodesk Construction Cloud (formerly PlanGrid), Oracle Primavera P6, or Microsoft Project for managing project timelines, budgets, and documentation.

• BIM Software: Autodesk Revit, Navisworks, or similar platforms for integrated design, clash detection, and visualization.

• CAD Software: AutoCAD or similar for detailed design and drafting.

• Collaboration Platforms: Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for communication and team coordination.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Experience with reporting tools to track project progress, budget adherence, and resource allocation.

• Familiarity with data analysis to support value engineering and feasibility studies. CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design and engineering integrate with procurement and operations systems is beneficial.

• Familiarity with workflow automation tools for document management and transmittal processes.

• Specialized BESS Design Tools: Potentially specific software for energy storage system design, load calculations, and grid interconnection studies.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with industry-standard project management and design software, particularly BIM tools, is critical. The ability to leverage these technologies for efficient design, collaboration, and project oversight will be a key differentiator.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Speed & Execution: A strong emphasis on rapid execution and delivering projects on aggressive timelines, as highlighted by "record speed" and "aggressive capital improvement programs."

• Quality & Detail: Despite the speed, there's a parallel emphasis on "high quality" and being "extremely detail oriented." This suggests a culture that balances urgency with meticulousness.

• Collaboration & Influence: The need to "pull people together," "influence various teams," and "build and maintain strong relationships" points to a culture that values teamwork and effective cross-functional leadership.

• Innovation & Problem-Solving: Redwood Materials' mission to revolutionize the battery supply chain implies a culture that encourages innovative solutions and proactive problem-solving.

• Accountability: Taking ownership ("own and drive," "own design funding and schedule") is a key cultural trait expected from leaders.

Collaboration Style:

• Integrated Teams: Expect a highly integrated approach where design, procurement, construction, and operations teams work closely together.

• Proactive Communication: A culture that encourages open and frequent communication to identify and address potential barriers early.

• Cross-functional Alignment: Strong emphasis on ensuring all involved parties are aligned with project goals and strategic objectives.

• Feedback Loops: Implicit need for continuous feedback between design, construction, and operational teams to refine processes and designs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at Redwood Materials appears to be characterized by a high-energy, fast-paced environment where collaboration, attention to detail, and a results-oriented mindset are paramount. The company’s mission-driven nature likely fosters a sense of purpose and shared commitment among its employees.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Aggressive Timelines: Balancing the need for speed with the complexity and detail required for high-quality infrastructure design and construction.

• Resource Management: Influencing and securing resources across multiple departments and potentially external partners in a rapidly scaling organization.

• Ambiguity & Scale: Navigating the inherent ambiguities of rapid growth and large-scale project execution in a nascent industry.

• Cross-functional Alignment: Ensuring seamless coordination and communication among diverse teams with potentially competing priorities.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Industry Expertise: Deepen knowledge in cutting-edge BESS technologies, grid integration, and sustainable manufacturing practices.

• Project Management Mastery: Enhance skills in managing large-scale, complex EPC projects from conception to completion.

• Leadership Development: Grow leadership capabilities through managing diverse teams, influencing stakeholders, and contributing to strategic decision-making.

• Exposure to Innovation: Be at the forefront of innovation in the battery supply chain and energy transition sectors.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges that are directly tied to substantial growth and learning opportunities. Successfully navigating these challenges will provide invaluable experience in large-scale project management and leadership within a critical, rapidly evolving industry.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you managed a complex infrastructure project with aggressive timelines. What were the key challenges, how did you ensure quality, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on process, problem-solving, and results.)

• "How do you influence stakeholders outside of your direct reporting line to achieve project objectives? Provide a specific example." (Highlight communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.)

• "Walk us through your process for managing the design lifecycle of a large-scale electrical project, from conceptualization through to IFC drawings. How do you integrate feedback from construction and operations?" (Demonstrate understanding of design phases, collaboration, and process management.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "Based on your understanding of Redwood Materials, what do you see as the biggest operational challenges in scaling battery supply chains, and how would your role help address them?" (Showcase company research and strategic thinking.)

• "Describe your experience working in fast-paced, potentially ambiguous environments. How do you maintain focus and drive results?" (Assess adaptability and resilience.)

• "How do you ensure quality and attention to detail while working under significant time pressure?" (Address the balance between speed and precision.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select Relevant Projects: Choose 2-3 projects that best showcase your experience with BESS, large-scale electrical infrastructure, EPC management, and cross-functional leadership.

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly define the objective, your specific role and responsibilities, the challenges encountered, the solutions you implemented, and the measurable outcomes achieved.

• Quantify Everything: Use data and metrics to support your claims regarding budget, schedule, efficiency gains, risk mitigation, and overall project success.

• Highlight Process & Collaboration: Emphasize your management of design phases, permitting, stakeholder engagement, and coordination with procurement and construction teams.

• Be Concise and Engaging: Practice your presentation to ensure it is clear, compelling, and fits within the allocated time. Be prepared for detailed follow-up questions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong command of project lifecycle management, technical expertise in electrical systems and energy storage, and exceptional leadership and communication skills. A well-structured portfolio presentation that highlights quantifiable achievements and effective collaboration will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the Redwood Materials careers portal via the provided Greenhouse link.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight experience in BESS design, EPC project management, electrical engineering, lean construction, and cross-functional leadership. Quantify achievements with specific metrics.

• Portfolio Preparation: Curate a portfolio that showcases your most relevant projects, focusing on BESS or large-scale electrical infrastructure. Prepare to present 2-3 key projects in detail, emphasizing your role, challenges, solutions, and outcomes.

• Interview Practice: Rehearse answers to common interview questions, focusing on behavioral scenarios, technical challenges, and your approach to stakeholder management and project execution. Practice explaining your portfolio projects concisely and impactfully.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Redwood Materials' mission, recent news, and their role in the battery supply chain. Understand their commitment to speed, scale, and sustainability to articulate your alignment with their culture and objectives.

⚠️ 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.