Senior Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Design Manager

Company: Swinerton

Location: Los Angeles, CA, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Construction Management & Design Operations

Date Posted: April 14, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This Senior Design Manager role is crucial for overseeing and driving the entire design lifecycle within large-scale construction projects, ensuring seamless integration between design and operations.

• The position demands a strategic leader capable of managing complex A/E partnerships, from contract negotiation through to the final construction-ready design documents.

• A key focus will be on proactive risk identification and mitigation, particularly concerning contractual obligations, design scope, and alignment with pursuit pricing strategies.

• The role requires a strong aptitude for technical oversight, ensuring building systems are selected and designed efficiently, cost-effectively, and sustainably, directly impacting project budget and schedule adherence.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Senior Design Manager," the detailed responsibilities and requirements strongly indicate a role deeply embedded in the operational and execution facets of construction projects, necessitating a blend of design understanding and robust project management capabilities. This is not a purely conceptual design role but one focused on the practical application and delivery of design within a construction context, aligning it with advanced operations management.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage the complete design process from conceptualization through to the issuance of construction-ready documents, ensuring alignment with contract requirements for scope, budget, and schedule.

• Lead and mentor a team of design professionals, overseeing daily activities, assisting with resource allocation, and contributing to talent acquisition and development.

• Proactively identify contractual risks early in the pursuit and project delivery phases, developing strategies to mitigate potential issues.

• Manage architect and engineering (A/E) partnerships, including contract negotiations, fee structures, design scope definition, and service expectations.

• Provide expert technical guidance to owners on system selections during the early concept design stage, ensuring constructability and operational efficiency.

• Conduct thorough technical reviews of building components and systems to preemptively address potential cost, procurement, or constructability challenges.

• Collaborate closely with project teams to manage the impact of long-lead material procurement on design schedules and overall project timelines.

• Facilitate effective cost management communications between design partners and internal operations teams at all project phases, ensuring transparency and informed decision-making.

• Conduct value management exercises to identify cost-effective material selections and design alternatives that maintain project objectives.

• Partner with operations teams to analyze lead opportunities and develop winning pursuit strategies, contributing to business development efforts through proposals and interviews.

• Ensure owners have a clear understanding of how design decisions influence project costs and schedules, fostering informed stakeholder alignment.

• Spearhead business development activities, including proposal writing, client interviews, and representing Swinerton at industry events to foster new opportunities.

• Maintain and develop design schedules, monitor key milestones, and provide regular progress updates to internal and external stakeholders.

• Conduct design reviews with clients, securing necessary direction and approvals while ensuring all internal teams are informed of any design modifications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities listed emphasize a hybrid role that combines design oversight with significant operational and project management duties. The focus on risk identification, A/E partnership management, cost control, procurement integration, and business development highlights the strategic and operational impact expected from this senior-level position within Swinerton's GTM and project delivery framework.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Architecture, or a related field; equivalent professional experience will be considered.

Experience: 10+ years of comprehensive construction management experience, with a substantial focus on the design-build delivery process.

Required Skills:

• Demonstrated expertise in managing and delivering design-build projects, including staff coordination, intricate budgeting, complex scheduling, and rigorous quality control/quality assurance processes.

• Profound understanding of construction project management control systems, encompassing advanced scheduling techniques, cost control methodologies, procurement strategies, and estimating processes.

• Proven experience in supervising staff, managing daily operational activities, and fostering a productive team environment.

• Solid working knowledge and practical experience with green design principles and sustainable construction methods.

• Excellent technical understanding of all building systems, from structural and mechanical to electrical and plumbing.

• Exceptional organizational skills, coupled with strong written and verbal communication abilities for effective stakeholder engagement.

• Ability to effectively balance data analysis, intuition, experience, and diverse perspectives for informed decision-making and problem-solving.

• Skill in fostering collaboration and navigating conflict resolution effectively among diverse internal and external stakeholders.

• Advanced computer proficiency, including extensive experience with construction management software and relevant platforms.

• Hands-on experience with AutoCAD and/or Revit, or similar design software applications.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Professional Architecture or Engineering License.

• LEED Accredited Professional.

• DBIA Certified Credential.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements clearly point to a senior-level role demanding not just technical design knowledge but also deep operational acumen in construction project management. The emphasis on "design-build delivery process" and "construction management experience" suggests that success in this role hinges on the ability to translate design concepts into executable, budget-conscious, and schedule-adherent construction realities. The preferred qualifications (PE/AIA, LEED, DBIA) indicate a desire for candidates with established industry credentials and a commitment to best practices in design and construction.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrations of successfully managed design-build projects, showcasing the full lifecycle from initial concept to final construction documents and execution.

• Case studies detailing how you translated complex architectural and engineering designs into actionable construction plans, emphasizing coordination and problem-solving.

• Evidence of managing and optimizing design processes, including workflow efficiencies, schedule adherence, and quality control measures implemented.

• Examples of contract negotiation and management with A/E firms, highlighting successful partnership development and risk mitigation strategies.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow diagrams or process maps illustrating your approach to managing design schedules, milestone tracking, and stakeholder communication.

• Examples of risk assessment and mitigation plans developed for design-build projects, particularly concerning contractual and constructability challenges.

• Documentation of system selection processes, demonstrating how technical knowledge was applied to choose appropriate building systems that meet project requirements and sustainability goals.

• Case studies on implementing VDC and BIM technologies to enhance design coordination, clash detection, and overall project visualization.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Senior Design Manager role focused on the operational execution of design, a portfolio is critical. It should not only showcase completed projects but also the candidate's systematic approach to managing the design process, mitigating risks, collaborating with diverse teams, and leveraging technology like BIM/VDC to drive efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The portfolio should serve as tangible proof of their ability to manage complex design initiatives within the demanding context of construction project delivery.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $110,500 - $165,700 Annual Salary This range is based on the provided job description and industry benchmarks for Senior Design Managers in the Los Angeles, CA area, considering the extensive experience (10+ years) and specialized skills required, particularly in design-build and construction management.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health: Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Retirement & Ownership: 401(k) with company matching, Employee Stock Ownership Program (ESOP), and individual stock ownership.

• Time Off: Generous paid vacation, paid sick leave, paid holidays, and bereavement leave.

• Employee Support: Employee assistance program, financial wellness coaching, and educational assistance.

• Work-Life Integration: Pre-tax flexible spending accounts, Care.com membership, ClassPass fitness membership, and DashPass delivery membership.

• Insurance & Protection: Basic term life insurance and AD&D, business travel accident insurance, short and long-term disability coverage.

• Voluntary Options: Additional term life insurance, long-term care insurance, critical illness and accidental injury insurance, pet insurance, legal plan, and identity theft protection.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week, with potential for overtime as project demands require. This role is on-site, requiring full-time presence at the designated project location.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is a good starting point. For a Senior Design Manager in Los Angeles with 10+ years of experience in design-build, compensation can often exceed the upper end of this range depending on the specific project scope, complexity, and the candidate's negotiation skills and unique qualifications (e.g., PE/AIA, DBIA certifications). The benefits package is extensive, highlighting Swinerton's commitment to employee well-being and long-term financial security, particularly through its ESOP and stock ownership programs.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction Services, General Contracting, Construction Management. Swinerton operates within the highly competitive and dynamic commercial and industrial construction sector, often engaging in large-scale, complex projects.

Company Size: Swinerton is a large, established company. With a workforce that likely numbers in the thousands (based on typical large construction firms), this provides opportunities for stability, extensive internal resources, and diverse project exposure.

Founded: Founded in 1908, Swinerton boasts a long and rich history, indicating a stable organizational foundation, established operational processes, and a deep understanding of the construction industry's evolution. This longevity suggests a culture that values experience, resilience, and long-term relationships.

Team Structure:

• The operations and design management teams at Swinerton are likely structured around specific projects or business units, with Senior Design Managers playing a pivotal leadership role within project teams.

• Reporting structures typically involve direct reports to senior project executives or regional operations leaders, while managing project-specific design teams, consultants, and coordinating with site operations personnel.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision-Making: Emphasis on leveraging project data, financial metrics, and performance analytics to inform design choices, budget allocations, and schedule adjustments.

• Integrated Project Delivery: A focus on collaborative workflows, often utilizing VDC and BIM, to ensure all project stakeholders are aligned from pre-construction through completion.

• Continuous Improvement: A culture that encourages the identification and implementation of process optimizations, leveraging lessons learned from past projects to enhance future outcomes.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Swinerton's extensive history and large scale suggest a corporate environment that values robust processes, proven methodologies, and experienced leadership. For a Senior Design Manager, this means navigating established operational frameworks while also being empowered to drive innovation in design execution and project delivery. The emphasis on VDC and BIM points to a forward-thinking approach to construction technology.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a significant leadership position within the operational and technical aspects of construction project delivery. It's a senior-level position requiring extensive experience and the ability to manage complex design-build processes, mentor teams, and influence project outcomes. It bridges technical design expertise with strategic operational management.

Reporting Structure: Typically, a Senior Design Manager would report to a Project Executive, Director of Operations, or a similar senior leadership role within Swinerton's project or regional management structure. They, in turn, would likely lead a team of Design Managers, Project Engineers, or other design support staff.

Operations Impact: The Senior Design Manager has a direct and profound impact on project success by ensuring designs are constructible, cost-effective, and meet client requirements. Their ability to manage A/E relationships, control design-related costs, and mitigate risks directly influences project profitability, schedule adherence, and client satisfaction. They are key enablers of efficient project execution.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Progression: Potential to advance into roles such as Director of Design Management, VP of Operations, or Executive Project Director, overseeing larger portfolios or entire business units.

• Specialization Development: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific construction sectors (e.g., healthcare, high-rise, industrial) or advanced methodologies like Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) or advanced VDC/BIM implementation.

• Mentorship & Training: A platform to mentor junior design and operations professionals, contribute to Swinerton's training programs, and potentially become a recognized subject matter expert within the firm.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a critical stepping stone for career advancement within Swinerton's operational leadership track. The blend of technical design oversight and hands-on project management positions the incumbent to move into broader operational leadership or specialized technical director roles. The company's size and history suggest a structured career path with clear opportunities for growth for high-performing individuals.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This position is primarily on-site, meaning the work environment will be dynamic and project-dependent. This could involve working from a Swinerton project office located at a construction site, a corporate office, or a combination thereof.

Office Location(s): The primary work location is Los Angeles, CA. However, as a Senior Design Manager, there may be occasional travel required to project sites, client offices, or A/E firm locations within the greater Los Angeles area or potentially further afield, depending on project needs.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Expect a highly collaborative workspace, requiring constant interaction with project teams, subcontractors, architects, engineers, and clients. This necessitates strong interpersonal and communication skills.

• Technology Integration: Access to Swinerton's standard suite of construction management software, VDC/BIM tools, and communication platforms will be provided to facilitate design management and project coordination.

• Dynamic Setting: The work environment will often be fast-paced and subject to the changing demands of active construction projects, requiring adaptability and the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday. However, due to the nature of construction projects, particularly those involving tight deadlines or critical milestones, flexibility in working hours, including occasional evenings or weekends, may be necessary.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "on-site" designation is key here. While there might be office-based tasks, the core of the role involves being close to the project, facilitating real-time coordination and problem-solving. This environment demands resilience, strong communication, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, often demanding, construction setting.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess qualifications against the minimum requirements.

• Hiring Manager Interview: An in-depth discussion about your experience, particularly in design-build, project management, and team leadership. Expect questions on how you handle complex design challenges, manage A/E relationships, and control project costs and schedules.

• Technical/Panel Interview: This stage may involve meeting with senior project leaders, operations directors, or a panel of peers. You'll likely be asked to present case studies from your portfolio, demonstrating your problem-solving skills, technical knowledge, and strategic approach to design management. Questions will focus on your application of VDC/BIM, sustainable design practices, and risk mitigation strategies.

• Final Interview: Potentially with executive leadership, focusing on cultural fit, long-term career aspirations, and your vision for design management within Swinerton.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Achievements: For each project in your portfolio, clearly state your role, responsibilities, and quantifiable results (e.g., "Reduced design review time by 15% through implementation of BIM clash detection," "Managed a $50M design-build project, delivering on time and 3% under budget").

• Showcase Process: Detail your methodology for managing design, including risk assessment, A/E coordination, cost control, and schedule management. Use diagrams or flowcharts where appropriate.

• Highlight Technical Skills: Include examples demonstrating your proficiency with AutoCAD, Revit, VDC, and BIM, and how these tools were leveraged to improve project outcomes.

• Address Challenges: Be prepared to discuss challenging projects and how you navigated complex issues, managed difficult stakeholders, or resolved design conflicts.

• Tailor to Swinerton: Research Swinerton's recent projects and company values. Highlight experience that aligns with their stated expertise and project types.

Challenge Preparation:

• Case Study Presentation: Be ready to present 1-2 detailed case studies from your portfolio that best exemplify your senior-level design management and construction execution capabilities. Focus on the "before and after" – the challenge, your solution, and the results.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Prepare for hypothetical scenarios related to design conflicts, budget overruns due to design issues, or A/E partner disagreements. Your responses should demonstrate structured thinking, data-driven analysis, and collaborative problem-solving.

• Strategic Thinking: Be ready to discuss your approach to developing pursuit strategies, identifying contractual risks, and integrating design with operational execution for maximum efficiency and profitability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely be rigorous, focusing heavily on practical experience and demonstrated ability to manage complex, real-world construction design challenges. A well-prepared portfolio that clearly articulates your process, impact, and technical skills is paramount. Understanding Swinerton's project portfolio and their emphasis on design-build and VDC/BIM will be crucial for tailoring your responses.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design Software: AutoCAD, Revit (essential for architectural and engineering design, modeling, and documentation). Experience with other similar design applications may also be beneficial.

• VDC/BIM Software: Proficiency in Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) and Building Information Modeling (BIM) platforms is critical for coordination, clash detection, visualization, and data management throughout the design and construction lifecycle.

• Construction Management Software: Experience with Swinerton's core construction management platforms (e.g., Procore, CMiC, or similar industry-standard systems) for project management, document control, and reporting.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Scheduling Software: Advanced proficiency with scheduling tools such as Primavera P6 or Microsoft Project for developing and managing complex project timelines.

• Cost Management Systems: Familiarity with systems or modules within construction management software used for budgeting, cost tracking, forecasting, and financial reporting.

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret data from various sources to inform decisions, identify trends, and report on project performance.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM (Customer Relationship Management): While not a primary sales role, understanding CRM principles may be beneficial for managing client relationships and business development activities.

• Project Collaboration Platforms: Tools like Slack, Microsoft Teams, or similar platforms for internal team communication and collaboration.

• Document Management Systems: Experience with systems for organizing, storing, and retrieving project documentation securely and efficiently.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack for this role is heavily weighted towards design and construction management tools. Proficiency in BIM/VDC is not just a preferred skill but likely a core requirement for effective design coordination and execution. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with these specific technologies and how they've used them to drive project efficiency and mitigate risks.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity & Trust: Upholding ethical standards in all dealings with clients, partners, and team members, building relationships based on reliability and honesty.

• Commitment to Excellence: A dedication to delivering high-quality results, striving for continuous improvement in processes and outcomes, and fostering a culture of accountability.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Valuing the contributions of every team member and promoting a collaborative environment where diverse perspectives are shared and respected to achieve common goals.

• Innovation & Adaptability: Embracing new technologies and methodologies (like VDC/BIM) to enhance efficiency and project delivery, while remaining adaptable to evolving project demands and industry best practices.

• Safety First: A paramount commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all personnel on project sites and in the workplace.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expect a highly integrated approach where design, operations, procurement, and safety teams work in concert, breaking down traditional silos to ensure seamless project execution.

• Constructive Feedback Culture: An environment where open and honest feedback is encouraged across all levels, used as a tool for professional development and process enhancement.

• Knowledge Sharing: A proactive culture of sharing best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise across projects and teams to elevate the collective capabilities of the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: Swinerton's long history suggests a culture that values traditional construction principles like integrity, safety, and quality, blended with a modern approach to technology and collaboration. A Senior Design Manager should demonstrate an ability to lead teams, foster strong working relationships, and uphold these core values in their daily interactions and decision-making.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Design Complexity: Overseeing intricate designs for large-scale projects that involve numerous interconnected building systems and require deep technical understanding.

• Balancing Competing Priorities: Effectively juggling demands related to budget constraints, aggressive schedules, quality standards, and evolving client requirements.

• A/E Partner Management: Navigating relationships with diverse architectural and engineering firms, ensuring alignment on scope, quality, and adherence to contractual obligations.

• Integrating VDC/BIM: Ensuring the effective adoption and utilization of VDC/BIM technologies across project teams and stakeholders to maximize their benefits.

• Risk Mitigation in Design-Build: Proactively identifying and managing risks inherent in the design-build delivery model, where design and construction responsibilities are closely intertwined.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Project Leadership: Opportunities to lead increasingly complex and high-profile design-build projects, enhancing strategic leadership and operational management skills.

• Industry Certifications: Support for pursuing advanced certifications such as DBIA Professional, PE/AIA licensure, or specialized VDC/BIM credentials.

• Mentorship Programs: Access to Swinerton's established mentorship programs, allowing for guidance from seasoned industry leaders and the opportunity to mentor emerging talent.

• Continuous Technical Training: Ongoing training on the latest design software, VDC/BIM technologies, sustainable building practices, and construction methodologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges that are also rich sources of professional growth. The ability to successfully navigate these challenges will directly contribute to career advancement within Swinerton, particularly in leadership roles focused on project delivery and operational excellence.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you successfully managed a complex design-build project from concept to completion. What were the key challenges, and how did you overcome them?" (Focus on your process, risk management, and stakeholder coordination).

• "How do you ensure that design decisions align with project budgets and schedules, especially in a fast-paced construction environment?" (Highlight your cost control, value engineering, and schedule management strategies).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Swinerton's approach to design-build and VDC/BIM? How would your experience contribute to our current projects?" (Research Swinerton's website, recent projects, and talk about alignment).

• "How do you foster a culture of safety and quality within design and project teams?" (Discuss your commitment to Swinerton's core values and your methods for embedding these principles).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each project, clearly define the objective, your role, the challenges encountered, the strategies/solutions implemented (especially technology use), and the measurable outcomes (budget, schedule, quality, safety).

• Quantify Your Impact: Use data and metrics wherever possible to showcase the tangible results of your efforts.

• Highlight Process: Explain your systematic approach to design management, risk mitigation, and team collaboration.

• Be Prepared for Technical Deep Dives: Have detailed examples ready to discuss your proficiency with AutoCAD, Revit, VDC, and BIM, and how you've used them to solve specific project challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be looking for a candidate who not only understands design but can operationally execute it within the rigorous framework of large-scale construction. Your ability to articulate your processes, demonstrate leadership, and showcase tangible results through your portfolio will be key differentiators.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the Swinerton external career portal via the provided URL.

• Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume to highlight direct experience in design-build delivery, construction management, A/E partnership management, and proficiency with AutoCAD, Revit, VDC, and BIM. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a selection of your strongest projects that demonstrate your capabilities in managing the full design lifecycle, mitigating risks, and driving operational efficiency in construction. Ensure it includes quantifiable achievements and clear explanations of your process.

• Practice Your Presentation: Rehearse presenting your portfolio case studies, focusing on clarity, conciseness, and impact. Be ready to discuss your technical skills and problem-solving approach in detail.

• Research Swinerton: Familiarize yourself with Swinerton's company history, values, recent projects, and their approach to technology like VDC/BIM. This will enable you to articulate your fit with their culture and operational strategy.

⚠️ 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.