Senior Design Manager - Design for Manufacturing

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Design Manager - Design for Manufacturing

Company: J.E. Dunn Construction Group Inc P

Location: Kansas City, MO

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Design Management / Construction Operations

Date Posted: April 28, 2026

Experience Level: 8+ Years (with 8+ years in Project Management or People Management preferred)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Leads and manages multidisciplinary teams to develop and deliver innovative design solutions specifically for offsite manufacturing operations.

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

• Drives the implementation of design-for-manufacturing principles, standard work, and advanced design technologies to enhance project delivery and operational efficiency.

• Oversees financial stewardship, staff development, and continuous improvement initiatives for the design-for-manufacturing team.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a Senior Design Manager, indicating a strong emphasis on leadership, strategic oversight, and the ability to manage complex design processes within a construction and manufacturing context. The "Design for Manufacturing" specialization suggests a focus on prefabrication, modular construction, or other offsite construction methodologies, requiring a deep understanding of how design translates into efficient production and assembly. The inclusion of "Operations" in the category reflects the direct link between design decisions and the company's operational capabilities.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Manages and leads multidisciplinary design teams, including designers, engineers, architects, and drafters, to achieve project objectives.

• Interprets proposals and develops internal work plans, collaborating with preconstruction, operations, and other key stakeholders to define project scope and strategy.

• Develops conceptual plans, elevations, and 3D models to support client presentations, win strategies, and conceptual pricing efforts.

• Reviews and understands contract documents, ensuring project compliance with codes, criteria, and technical requirements.

• Manages external design partners and consultants, ensuring they meet technical, quality, and schedule requirements for design deliverables.

• Oversees the design review process to ensure schedules are met, identifying project risks and opportunities throughout the design phase.

• Leverages design experiences to identify solutions to project-specific challenges, monitoring design schedules, quality control, and content for design document delivery.

• Coordinates with the Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) team to develop and implement project-specific VDC strategies.

• Manages project documentation, including proposals, drawings, specifications, reports, and shop drawings, utilizing 3D and 2D file management systems.

• Provides technical design guidance throughout the entire design and construction process, from proposal to project closeout.

• Develops and manages key financial components, including financial plans, budgets, and forecasts for design-for-manufacturing projects, to minimize risk and maximize revenue and margin.

• Provides leadership in the adoption and use of advanced design methods, including parametric modeling, automation, model-based design, and AI-enabled tools.

• Evaluates and recommends design technologies that improve productivity, coordination, and quality.

• Ensures new tools and workflows are implemented in a controlled, standardized, and scalable manner.

• Directs the development and application of standard work, best practices, and repeatable design processes.

• Identifies opportunities for process improvement to increase efficiency, reduce rework, and improve predictability.

• Coordinates with Manufacturing, Operations, Procurement, Project Management, and other internal teams to support project execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on technical design leadership and operational management. The emphasis on "design for manufacturing" and "offsite manufacturing" implies a need for expertise in areas like modular construction, prefabrication, and the integration of design with production processes. The financial management aspect is crucial for a senior role, requiring the manager to oversee budgets and contribute to company profitability.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• 8+ years of experience in project management or managing people (preferred).

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

Required Skills:

• Design Management: Proven ability to lead and manage complex design processes and multidisciplinary teams.

• Design for Manufacturing (DFM): Deep understanding of principles and application of DFM to optimize for offsite production, fabrication, logistics, and installation.

• Project Management: Strong capability in managing project scope, schedule, budget, and quality from conception to completion.

• Technical Proficiency: Proficiency with AutoCAD, Revit, and/or Google SketchUp.

• Code & Standards Knowledge: Experience with U.S. building design codes and material-specific standards.

• Financial Acumen: Ability to manage budgets, maximize profitability, and understand financial metrics related to design projects.

• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to conduct effective presentations.

• Collaboration: Ability to build relationships and collaborate effectively within a team, both internally and externally.

• Lean Process Application: Intermediate ability to apply Lean principles and philosophy to optimize workflows and reduce waste.

Preferred Skills:

• VDC Integration: Experience with Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) workflows and implementation.

• Parametric Modeling & Automation: Experience with parametric modeling, automation, model-based design, and AI-enabled tools.

• Cross-Disciplinary Expertise: Conversant with linked design disciplines such as Geotechnical/Civil, Façade, Structural, MEP, Data/Communications, Vertical Transportation, Acoustics, and Fire and Life Safety.

• Strategic Thinking: Ability to think in a highly structured manner across all design disciplines while developing specialized solutions.

• Client Relationship Management: Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with clients and stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience requirement of "8+ years of experience as Project Manager or managing people (preferred)" suggests that while direct project management experience is valuable, leadership and people management are equally, if not more, critical for this senior role. The emphasis on both technical design software and broader engineering discipline knowledge indicates a need for a well-rounded candidate who can bridge the gap between specialized design and overall project execution.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrates successful management of complex design projects, particularly those involving offsite manufacturing or prefabrication.

• Showcases examples of collaborative workflows with multidisciplinary teams and external partners.

• Includes evidence of budget management, cost-saving strategies, and value-added solutions implemented during the design phase.

• Highlights experience with design software (AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp) and their application in delivering design documents.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Portfolios should include examples of optimized design workflows, detailing how processes were streamlined for efficiency, especially in relation to manufacturing and construction.

• System Implementation: Evidence of implementing or managing design technologies, such as VDC, parametric modeling, or automation tools, and their successful integration into project workflows.

• Measurement & Analysis: Portfolios should present metrics and data that demonstrate the impact of design decisions and process improvements on project cost, schedule, and quality, with a clear focus on manufacturing efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Senior Design Manager role focused on Design for Manufacturing, the portfolio should heavily emphasize process optimization and the tangible impact of design on production efficiency. Candidates should be prepared to showcase how they've translated design concepts into manufacturable and constructible solutions, detailing the processes used and the quantifiable benefits achieved.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Based on industry benchmarks for a Senior Design Manager role in Kansas City, MO, with 8+ years of experience and specialized skills in Design for Manufacturing, the estimated annual salary range is $120,000 - $170,000. This estimate considers the level of responsibility, technical expertise required, and the company's position in the construction industry.

Benefits:

• Professional Non-Union Benefits Package: This typically includes comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.

• Retirement Savings Plan: Likely includes a 401(k) with potential company match.

• Paid Time Off: Includes vacation days, sick leave, and holidays.

• Life and Disability Insurance: Standard coverage options.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, certifications, and continuing education relevant to design and construction management.

• Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP): Potentially offered, allowing employees to purchase company stock at a discount.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours (approximately 40 hours per week).

• Willingness to work non-traditional hours to meet project needs, which may include evenings and weekends, especially during critical project phases or travel.

📝 Enhancement Note: The estimated salary range is based on research of similar Senior Design Manager roles in the Kansas City metropolitan area, factoring in the specific requirements for Design for Manufacturing expertise and the stated experience level. The benefits are generalized based on typical offerings for professional non-union roles in large construction firms, but candidates should refer to the provided link for specific details.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction & Real Estate Development. J.E. Dunn is a major player in the construction industry, known for its commitment to innovation, quality, and client satisfaction across a wide range of project types, including commercial, industrial, healthcare, and education.

Company Size: Large. J.E. Dunn is a significant employer with a national presence, indicating a structured corporate environment with established processes and a broad network of resources.

Founded: 1924. With over 100 years of history, J.E. Dunn has a deep-rooted legacy, emphasizing stability, experience, and a long-term vision for growth and development.

Team Structure:

• Operations Focus: The role is embedded within a team focused on Design for Manufacturing, suggesting a specialized unit that bridges design and production.

• Multidisciplinary Collaboration: The team likely comprises a mix of designers, engineers, architects, VDC specialists, and manufacturing process experts.

• Reporting: The Senior Design Manager will likely report to a Director of Design, VP of Operations, or a similar senior leadership role within the construction or manufacturing division.

• Cross-functional Integration: Close collaboration with Preconstruction, Estimating, Project Management, Procurement, and Manufacturing teams is critical for success.

Methodology:

• Lean Construction Principles: Expect a strong emphasis on Lean methodologies to optimize workflows, reduce waste, and improve efficiency throughout the design and manufacturing process.

• Technology Integration: A commitment to adopting and leveraging advanced design technologies, including VDC, BIM, parametric modeling, and potentially AI-driven tools, to enhance project delivery.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Emphasis on using data analytics to inform design decisions, track performance, and identify opportunities for continuous improvement.

• Standardization & Scalability: Focus on developing and implementing standard work and repeatable design processes that can be scaled across multiple projects and manufacturing operations.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: J.E. Dunn's long history and large size suggest a company that values experience, stability, and a structured approach to operations. The "Best People + Right Culture" slogan emphasizes a focus on employee development and a positive work environment, which is crucial for attracting and retaining senior talent. The specific mention of "offsite manufacturing operations" indicates a strategic focus on modern construction techniques.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Senior Managerial position, indicating a significant level of responsibility. It sits above individual contributor or junior management roles and requires a blend of technical expertise, leadership acumen, and strategic thinking. The role is pivotal in shaping how design interfaces with manufacturing, directly impacting project efficiency and profitability.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Design Manager will likely report to a Director or VP level executive, such as a Director of Design, VP of Operations, or VP of Manufacturing. They will, in turn, manage a team of designers, engineers, architects, and drafters. This structure allows for strategic direction from senior leadership while enabling focused execution by the design team.

Operations Impact: This role has a substantial impact on revenue and business decisions by:

• Enhancing Profitability: Optimizing designs for manufacturing directly reduces costs associated with materials, labor, and rework, thereby increasing project margins.

• Improving Project Delivery: Ensuring designs are constructible and manufacturable leads to shorter project schedules and better client satisfaction, fostering repeat business and positive market reputation.

• Driving Innovation: Leading the adoption of new design technologies and methodologies positions J.E. Dunn at the forefront of construction innovation, attracting new clients and market opportunities.

• Strategic Planning: The insights and strategies developed by this role influence future project pursuits, operational investments, and the company's overall approach to offsite construction.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to move into Director-level roles overseeing larger design departments, entire manufacturing operations, or broader strategic initiatives within the company.

• Specialization Deepening: Opportunity to become a recognized expert in advanced design technologies, offsite construction, or specific manufacturing processes, leading to consulting or subject matter expert roles.

• Cross-Functional Mobility: Possibility to transition into senior roles within Preconstruction, Project Management, or Operations, leveraging a deep understanding of the design-to-construction lifecycle.

• Mentorship & Training: Opportunity to mentor junior team members, develop training programs, and contribute to the company's knowledge base, enhancing leadership and development skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for a Senior Design Manager in a company like J.E. Dunn is typically focused on scaling impact from managing a team and projects to leading entire departments or strategic business units. The emphasis on "Design for Manufacturing" suggests potential growth into roles focused on industrialization in construction, a rapidly evolving field.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This role is primarily based in an office environment, likely within a J.E. Dunn office location in Kansas City. While the core duties are performed from an office, the role involves significant interaction with project sites and manufacturing facilities.

Office Location(s): Kansas City, MO. The specific office location will likely be within a corporate or project office setting. Travel to project sites and manufacturing facilities, potentially extensive, is expected.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The office workspace will be designed to facilitate collaboration among the design team, VDC specialists, and other project stakeholders. Meeting rooms, shared workstations, and informal gathering spaces are likely available.

• Technology-Rich Environment: Access to high-performance computing, advanced design software, large-format displays, and robust network infrastructure will be provided to support complex design tasks.

• Cross-Functional Interaction: Opportunities to engage directly with teams from Preconstruction, Operations, Estimating, and Manufacturing, fostering a holistic understanding of project delivery.

Work Schedule:

• A standard 40-hour work week is the baseline, but the role requires flexibility.

• "Willing to work non-traditional hours to meet project needs" indicates that evening, weekend, and potentially extended travel may be necessary to meet critical deadlines, client demands, or site-specific requirements. This flexibility is common in senior roles within the construction industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: The expectation of "extensive periods of travel" and "non-traditional hours" is common for senior roles in construction that oversee projects or operations across various locations. Candidates should be prepared for a demanding schedule that prioritizes project success and client needs.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Initial Screening: HR or a recruiter will review applications to assess basic qualifications, experience, and alignment with role requirements.

2. Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the hiring manager (likely a Director or VP) to delve deeper into technical expertise, leadership style, and alignment with the Design for Manufacturing function. Expect questions about managing teams, handling complex design challenges, and strategic thinking.

3. Team/Peer Interviews: Meetings with key team members (e.g., senior designers, VDC leads, operations managers) to assess collaboration skills, cultural fit, and technical depth.

4. Portfolio Review & Presentation: A dedicated session where candidates present their portfolio. This is critical for this role, focusing on Design for Manufacturing case studies, process improvements, and leadership examples.

5. Executive Interview: Potentially a final interview with a senior executive (e.g., VP of Operations, CTO) to confirm strategic alignment and senior leadership potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on DFM Impact: Showcase specific projects where your design strategies led to measurable improvements in offsite manufacturing efficiency, cost reduction, or quality. Quantify outcomes whenever possible (e.g., "reduced fabrication time by 15%", "decreased material waste by 10%").

• Highlight Leadership & Team Management: Include examples of how you've led multidisciplinary teams, resolved conflicts, mentored staff, and fostered a collaborative environment.

• Demonstrate Technical Versatility: Include examples of your proficiency with AutoCAD, Revit, and other relevant design/modeling software, showcasing how you've used them to solve specific design challenges.

• Process Innovation: Detail any innovative processes or workflows you've implemented or improved, especially those that bridge design and manufacturing. Use diagrams or flowcharts if helpful.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Prepare to discuss specific challenges you've faced in design management or DFM and how you strategically approached and resolved them.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Optimization Case Study: Be prepared for a hypothetical or real-world case study where you'll need to propose design solutions for a manufacturing challenge, focusing on efficiency, cost, and constructability.

• Process Improvement Proposal: You might be asked to outline a plan for implementing new design technologies or standardizing workflows within the design-for-manufacturing team.

• Team Management Scenario: Prepare to discuss how you would handle a situation involving underperforming team members, inter-departmental conflicts, or resistance to new technologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio review is paramount for this role. Candidates should curate examples that directly address the "Design for Manufacturing" aspect, demonstrating not just design skills but also operational impact and leadership. The interview process is designed to assess both technical competence and the ability to drive strategic initiatives within a large construction organization.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD/BIM Software: AutoCAD, Revit (essential for architectural, structural, and MEP design).

• 3D Modeling Software: Google SketchUp, potentially others like Rhino or SolidWorks for specific manufacturing design aspects.

• Project Management Software: Tools like Procore, Autodesk Construction Cloud, or similar platforms for managing project documentation, communication, and workflows.

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

Analytics & Reporting:

• VDC Tools: Navisworks for clash detection and coordination, potentially Solibri for model checking.

• Data Analysis Tools: Proficiency in Excel for data manipulation and reporting. Familiarity with business intelligence tools like Tableau or Power BI could be beneficial for performance tracking.

• Financial Management Systems: Experience with ERP systems or financial planning software used by J.E. Dunn for budget tracking and forecasting.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM (Customer Relationship Management): While not directly managing sales, understanding CRM principles is helpful for client interaction and relationship management.

• Workflow Automation: Experience with tools or methodologies that automate repetitive design tasks or streamline approval processes.

• Integration Tools: Familiarity with how different software platforms (e.g., design tools, project management, ERP) can be integrated to improve data flow and efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack reflects a modern construction and manufacturing environment. Proficiency in BIM (Revit) and associated VDC tools is critical. The emphasis on "automation, model-based design, and AI-enabled tools" indicates a forward-looking approach, and candidates with experience in these areas will be highly valued.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Inspired People & Places: J.E. Dunn's core value emphasizes creating inspiring environments through talented individuals. For this role, it means fostering a team that is passionate about design innovation and its impact on built environments.

• Integrity & Trust: Building strong relationships based on honesty and reliability is fundamental. Operations professionals are expected to be transparent in their dealings and uphold ethical standards.

• Excellence & Quality: A commitment to delivering high-quality work and striving for perfection in design and execution. This translates to meticulous attention to detail and a drive for continuous improvement.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: The company culture promotes working together across disciplines and departments to achieve common goals. This role requires strong collaborative skills to bridge design, manufacturing, and construction.

• Innovation & Adaptability: Encouraging new ideas and embracing new technologies to stay ahead in the industry. The focus on DFM and advanced design tools aligns with this value.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: A proactive approach to working with Preconstruction, Estimating, Project Management, and Manufacturing teams to ensure seamless project delivery. This involves regular communication, joint problem-solving, and shared accountability.

• Process-Driven Feedback: An open culture where feedback on design processes and workflows is encouraged from all stakeholders, leading to continuous refinement and optimization.

• Knowledge Sharing: A commitment to sharing best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise across teams to elevate the collective capability of the organization.

• Client-Centric Approach: Understanding and prioritizing client needs and expectations throughout the design and manufacturing process, ensuring that outcomes align with their business objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's stated values ("Best People + Right Culture," "Inspired People + Places") suggest an environment that values collaboration, innovation, and employee well-being. For an operations role, this translates to a workplace that encourages proactive problem-solving, continuous learning, and strong interpersonal relationships across functional teams.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Bridging Design and Manufacturing: Effectively translating complex design requirements into manufacturable components while meeting cost and schedule constraints is a primary challenge. This requires deep understanding of both domains.

• Adoption of New Technologies: Leading the integration of advanced design tools (parametric modeling, AI) and offsite manufacturing processes can face resistance from traditional workflows.

• Cross-Functional Alignment: Ensuring all stakeholders (design, manufacturing, construction, estimating) are aligned on design intent and execution strategies can be complex, requiring strong communication and negotiation skills.

• Managing Diverse Teams: Leading a multidisciplinary team with varying expertise and priorities requires strong leadership, conflict resolution, and motivational skills.

• Market Volatility: Adapting design strategies to fluctuating material costs, supply chain disruptions, and evolving client demands.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced DFM Techniques: Opportunities to deepen expertise in areas like modular construction, prefabrication, robotics in manufacturing, and sustainable design for production.

• Technology Training: Access to training on the latest design software, VDC tools, AI-driven design platforms, and automation technologies.

• Leadership Development Programs: Formal training and mentorship to enhance leadership, strategic planning, and financial management skills.

• Industry Conferences & Certifications: Support for attending industry events (e.g., construction technology expos, manufacturing innovation summits) and obtaining relevant certifications.

• Cross-Departmental Exposure: Opportunities to gain broader experience by working closely with or rotating through other key departments like Preconstruction, Project Management, or Manufacturing Operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges related to innovation and integration, which are also key drivers for growth. The company's focus on advanced technologies and offsite manufacturing suggests a dynamic environment where continuous learning and skill development are not just encouraged but essential for success and career progression.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you led a design team through a complex project involving offsite manufacturing. What were the key challenges, and how did you ensure success?" (Focus on leadership, DFM principles, and problem-solving.)

• "How would you approach implementing a new design technology, like parametric modeling, within a team that is accustomed to traditional CAD workflows?" (Assess change management, technical adoption strategy, and communication.)

• "Walk me through your process for ensuring a design is optimized for fabrication and installation, considering cost, schedule, and quality constraints." (Evaluate DFM methodology, analytical skills, and understanding of the construction lifecycle.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about J.E. Dunn's approach to Design for Manufacturing and offsite construction?" (Gauge company research and alignment with strategic focus.)

• "How do you foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement within your design teams?" (Assess leadership style and commitment to growth.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each case study, clearly define the problem, your proposed solution (design strategy/process), the actions taken, and the quantifiable results achieved.

• Highlight DFM Impact: Explicitly connect your design decisions to benefits in manufacturing efficiency, cost savings, reduced waste, or improved installation speed. Use visuals (renderings, models, photos) to illustrate your points.

• Showcase Leadership: Describe your role in leading the team, managing stakeholders, and making critical decisions.

• Be Prepared for Technical Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about specific software, codes, materials, or engineering principles related to your projects.

• Tailor to J.E. Dunn: Research current J.E. Dunn projects and initiatives, and try to relate your experience to their known work and strategic direction.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role will heavily weigh practical experience and strategic thinking. Candidates should prepare to articulate their leadership style, demonstrate a deep understanding of Design for Manufacturing principles, and provide concrete examples of how they've driven efficiency and value through design in the construction context.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Design Manager - Design for Manufacturing position:

• Submit your application through the J.E. Dunn Construction careers portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Curate your portfolio to prominently feature projects demonstrating expertise in Design for Manufacturing (DFM), offsite construction, and process optimization. Include case studies with quantifiable results in terms of cost, schedule, and efficiency improvements.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight leadership experience, project management achievements, proficiency in relevant design software (AutoCAD, Revit), and specific experience with DFM principles. Use keywords from the job description.

• Interview Preparation: Rehearse answers to common interview questions, focusing on behavioral examples that showcase your leadership, problem-solving, and DFM expertise. Prepare a concise and compelling presentation of your portfolio.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research J.E. Dunn Construction, paying close attention to their recent projects, technological advancements, and stated company values, particularly regarding innovation and offsite construction. Understand their operational philosophy.

⚠️ 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.