Technical Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Technical Design Manager

Company: HDR

Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States; Saint Louis Park, Minnesota, United States

Job Type: Full-time, Regular

Category: Operations Management / Project Management (Engineering Services)

Date Posted: 2026-06-26

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Leads and manages multidisciplinary engineering teams through the entire project lifecycle, from initial concept and development to final close-out, ensuring successful project delivery.

• Oversees all facets of complex, small to medium-sized projects, and routine large projects, with a focus on technical design integrity and client satisfaction.

• Develops and maintains strong client relationships, actively participating in marketing, contractual negotiations, and design-focused meetings to foster partnerships and secure future work.

• Drives project financial performance by tracking budgets, managing costs, and coordinating team efforts to ensure project completion within agreed-upon financial parameters.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Technical Design Manager," the core responsibilities and AI-derived keywords strongly indicate a Project Management role within an engineering services context, with a focus on technical design oversight. The role requires a blend of technical understanding and strong project leadership, aligning with GTM operations that ensure project profitability and client retention.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Direct and coordinate the work of single or multidiscipline teams throughout the project's lifecycle, encompassing development, initiation, and close-out phases.

• Take ownership of all aspects of complex small to medium projects or routine large projects, ensuring alignment with company standards and client expectations.

• Produce and coordinate multiple small to medium-sized projects concurrently, optimizing resource allocation and workflow for maximum efficiency.

• Establish and nurture robust client relations, actively engaging in marketing efforts, contractual discussions, and design/production meetings.

• Conduct collaborative work sessions with internal teams and external stakeholders to develop project deliverables, ensuring all requirements are met.

• Coordinate staffing and workload distribution across the project lifecycle, guaranteeing the timely completion of all deliverables according to schedule.

• Track and manage the financial aspects of projects, including budget adherence and cost control, making necessary adjustments to work efforts to stay within agreed-upon parameters.

• Collaborate with Accounting, Operational, and Business leadership for periodic project reviews, providing insights into project status and financial health.

• Implement and oversee Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) procedures to ensure the highest standards of design and project execution.

• Perform other essential duties as assigned to support project success and organizational objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities listed are typical for a Project Manager in an engineering consultancy. The emphasis on client relations, financial tracking, and team coordination highlights the operational aspects of managing engineering projects, which often fall under GTM or operational leadership functions.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High School Diploma or equivalent (Required)

• Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture or Engineering (Preferred) Experience:

• A minimum of 7 years of project management experience (Required)

• General background-related experience in the engineering or architecture field (Required) Required Skills:

• Proven ability to lead and manage multidisciplinary project teams effectively.

• Strong understanding of project lifecycle management, from initiation to close-out.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, and Project for project planning and tracking.

• Excellent client relations and communication skills for managing stakeholder expectations and fostering partnerships.

• Experience in implementing and overseeing QA/QC procedures to ensure quality deliverables.

• Demonstrated ability to track project financials, manage budgets, and control costs.

• Skills in staffing coordination and workload management to ensure efficient project execution.

• Strong mentoring skills for developing and guiding project team members.

• Commitment to being an active participant in an employee-owned culture. Preferred Skills:

• Experience and/or interest in sustainable design principles and LEED accreditation.

• PMP (Project Management Professional) certification.

• Registered Architect or Professional Engineer license.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Preferred Qualifications" section clearly outlines the desired professional credentials and specific technical/managerial proficiencies that would make a candidate stand out. This suggests a role that values both formal project management certification and in-depth technical expertise within the building engineering domain.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A portfolio showcasing successful management of complex small to medium-sized engineering projects, demonstrating end-to-end project lifecycle oversight.

• Evidence of robust client relationship management, including examples of successful client engagements and satisfaction metrics.

• Documentation of projects where financial tracking and budget adherence were critical, highlighting cost control strategies and outcomes.

• Case studies demonstrating the implementation of QA/QC procedures and their impact on project quality and risk mitigation.

• Examples of teams successfully led, showcasing leadership style, mentoring approaches, and team coordination strategies. Process Documentation:

• Workflow design and optimization examples for managing multiple concurrent projects and resource allocation.

• Implementation of project management methodologies and automation tools used for tracking project progress, financials, and deliverables.

• Measurement and performance analysis of projects managed, including key performance indicators (KPIs) related to schedule adherence, budget performance, and client satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Technical Design Manager role with a strong project management component, a portfolio demonstrating direct experience in managing engineering projects, client interactions, financial oversight, and team leadership is crucial. This aligns with operations roles where tangible results and process efficiency are paramount.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Based on industry standards for a Technical Design Manager with 5-10 years of experience in Minneapolis/Saint Louis Park, MN, the estimated annual salary range is $95,000 - $130,000. This estimate considers the cost of living in the Minneapolis metropolitan area, the engineering services industry benchmarks, and the required experience level.

Benefits:

• Employee Ownership: As an employee-owned company, HDR offers a unique benefit where employees share in the company's success.

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Includes medical, dental, and vision coverage.

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

• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation, sick leave, and holiday policies.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for continuing education, certifications (e.g., PMP, LEED), and training.

• Life and Disability Insurance: Standard coverage options.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Support services for personal and professional challenges. Working Hours:

• Standard full-time work week of approximately 40 hours.

• Flexibility may be available, but the role is primarily on-site, requiring active presence for project coordination and client meetings.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimate is based on data from industry salary aggregators and regional cost-of-living indices for engineering and project management roles in major metropolitan areas like Minneapolis. The emphasis on employee ownership is a key differentiator for HDR and a significant benefit.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Architecture, Engineering, Construction (AEC), Infrastructure, Consulting. HDR is a major player in designing and consulting for building engineering, infrastructure, and environmental projects, often focusing on sustainable solutions and technological advancements.

Company Size: HDR is a large, global firm, typically employing over 10,000 people. This size offers stability, extensive resources, and a broad range of project opportunities, but also means established processes and corporate structures.

Founded: HDR was founded in 1917, giving it a long history of expertise and a strong reputation in the engineering and design sectors. Its longevity speaks to its adaptability and commitment to client service.

Team Structure:

• The role likely sits within HDR's Building Engineering Services Group, which comprises mechanical, electrical, structural, and civil engineering experts.

• The Technical Design Manager will lead multidisciplinary teams, suggesting a matrixed organizational structure where team members report operationally to their discipline leads but functionally to the project manager.

• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, requiring interaction with project managers, discipline leads, architects, clients, and potentially business development and accounting teams. Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making is implied, with a need for tracking project financials and performance metrics.

• Workflow planning and optimization are central to managing multiple concurrent projects efficiently.

• Automation and efficiency practices are likely leveraged through tools like Microsoft Project and other project management software to streamline processes and enhance productivity.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: HDR's status as a large, employee-owned, global firm implies a culture that values long-term commitment, collaboration, and professional growth. The "employee-owner" aspect is a significant cultural driver.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is at a mid-to-senior management level, focusing on leading project teams and managing project execution. It requires a blend of technical expertise, project management acumen, and leadership capabilities.

Reporting Structure: The Technical Design Manager will likely report to a senior project director, regional manager, or a lead within the Building Engineering Services Group. They will, in turn, manage project teams composed of engineers, designers, and technical staff.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct impact on HDR's revenue and profitability through successful project delivery, client retention, and efficient resource utilization. Their ability to manage projects effectively influences client satisfaction, repeat business, and the company's reputation in the market.

Growth Opportunities:

• Advancement to Senior Project Manager, Program Manager, or Director roles overseeing larger or multiple projects.

• Specialization in specific building types (e.g., data centers, healthcare facilities) or sustainable design (LEED).

• Opportunities to mentor junior staff and contribute to talent development within the organization.

• Potential to transition into business development or client management roles, leveraging established client relationships.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for a Technical Design Manager in a firm like HDR typically involves progressing from managing smaller projects to larger, more complex ones, and potentially moving into leadership roles overseeing entire programs or business units. The employee-ownership model can also provide avenues for increased influence and long-term career wealth building.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role, indicating a traditional office setting within HDR's Minneapolis or Saint Louis Park locations.

Office Location(s): Minneapolis and Saint Louis Park, Minnesota. These are established urban and suburban locations offering access to talent and amenities.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely be collaborative, encouraging interaction among project team members and discipline leads.

• Access to standard office technology, including robust IT infrastructure, project management software, and communication tools, is expected.

• Opportunities for informal and formal collaboration with colleagues from various engineering disciplines and project management functions.

Work Schedule: The role requires a standard 40-hour work week, with the expectation of being present on-site. Flexibility may exist, but the demands of project coordination and client meetings will likely necessitate consistent office presence.

📝 Enhancement Note: An on-site role in a large engineering firm typically means a structured, professional environment with resources readily available, but also a demand for consistent presence and adherence to company protocols.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or a recruiter will likely conduct an initial phone screen to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A more in-depth discussion with the hiring manager, focusing on project management experience, leadership style, technical understanding, and specific project examples.

• Technical/Team Interview: May involve meeting with senior engineers, discipline leads, or other project managers to assess technical knowledge, problem-solving abilities, and team collaboration skills. A portfolio review might occur here.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader or director to discuss strategic alignment, long-term career goals, and final fit within the organization.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Project Scope and Impact: Clearly articulate the size, complexity, and type of projects managed. Quantify achievements using metrics (e.g., budget managed, team size, schedule adherence, client satisfaction scores).

• Showcase Technical Oversight: Demonstrate your ability to understand and guide technical design decisions, even if you are not the primary technical expert. Explain how you ensured technical quality and compliance.

• Detail Client Engagement: Provide examples of how you built and maintained client relationships, managed expectations, and resolved issues.

• Illustrate Financial Management: Present case studies showing your proficiency in budget tracking, cost control, and financial reporting for projects.

• Emphasize Leadership and Teamwork: Describe your approach to leading, mentoring, and motivating project teams. Include examples of successful collaboration and conflict resolution.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss your approach to managing challenging projects, including scope creep, budget overruns, or difficult stakeholders.

• Practice articulating your project management methodology, including how you plan, execute, monitor, and close projects.

• Research HDR's recent projects and company values to tailor your responses and demonstrate genuine interest.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role like this, interviewers will be keen to understand your practical experience in managing engineering projects from start to finish, your ability to foster strong client relationships, and your capacity to lead diverse technical teams. A well-organized portfolio that directly addresses these areas will be a significant advantage.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Microsoft Office Suite: Essential for reporting, communication, and project planning (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

• Microsoft Project: A key tool for project scheduling, resource allocation, and timeline management.

• Project Management Software: HDR likely uses advanced project management platforms (e.g., Procore, Autodesk Construction Cloud, Oracle Primavera) for detailed project tracking, document control, and collaboration.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Financial Tracking Software: Integrated systems for monitoring project budgets, expenditures, and profitability.

• Reporting Dashboards: Tools for creating visual reports on project status, KPIs, and financial health for internal and client review.

CRM & Automation:

• Client Relationship Management (CRM) Systems: Used for managing client information, tracking interactions, and supporting business development efforts.

• Document Management Systems: For organizing and controlling project documentation, ensuring version control and accessibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with Microsoft Project is explicitly mentioned. Experience with broader project management suites and financial reporting tools common in the AEC industry will be highly valued.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Employee Ownership: A core value at HDR, fostering a sense of shared responsibility, commitment, and pride in the company's success. This translates to a collaborative and results-oriented environment.

• Integrity and Respect: Valuing honesty, ethical conduct, and treating all individuals with respect, fostering an inclusive workplace.

• Innovation and Excellence: Encouraging creative problem-solving and striving for high standards in design and project delivery.

• Client Focus: Prioritizing client needs and building long-term relationships through exceptional service and reliable project execution.

• Sustainability: A growing emphasis on designing environmentally responsible and resilient solutions.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Encouraging seamless collaboration between different engineering disciplines, project managers, and support staff.

• Open Communication: Promoting transparency and open dialogue to share information, provide feedback, and address challenges proactively.

• Team-Oriented Problem Solving: Encouraging collective effort to tackle complex design and project management issues.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "employee-owned culture" is a defining characteristic of HDR and will heavily influence the team's collaborative style and individual commitment to the company's overall success.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Multiple Complex Projects: Balancing the demands of several concurrent projects, each with unique technical requirements, client expectations, and timelines.

• Navigating Client Expectations: Effectively managing client relationships, scope changes, and potential conflicts to ensure satisfaction and project profitability.

• Team Coordination and Motivation: Leading diverse technical teams, ensuring clear communication, and maintaining morale, especially under project pressures.

• Budget and Schedule Adherence: Consistently delivering projects within defined financial and time constraints in a competitive market.

• Adapting to Evolving Technologies: Staying abreast of new design software, engineering techniques, and sustainable building practices.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Professional Certifications: Support for obtaining or maintaining PMP, LEED, or other relevant industry certifications.

• Advanced Project Management Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in areas like risk management, contract negotiation, and advanced scheduling.

• Technical Skill Enhancement: Access to training and development in specialized areas of building engineering or sustainable design.

• Leadership Development Programs: Structured programs designed to cultivate leadership skills for managing larger teams and strategic initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for senior project management roles in the AEC industry, requiring strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills. HDR's commitment to employee development offers clear pathways for growth.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to manage a project that was significantly over budget or behind schedule. What steps did you take, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on your problem-solving, financial management, and corrective action skills.)

• "How do you establish and maintain strong relationships with clients, especially when dealing with challenging project requirements or difficult stakeholders?" (Highlight your client management, communication, and negotiation abilities.)

• "Walk me through your process for leading a multidisciplinary engineering team on a complex project. How do you ensure collaboration and accountability?" (Demonstrate your leadership style, team coordination, and understanding of project lifecycles.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "HDR is employee-owned. How does that concept resonate with you, and how do you see yourself contributing to an employee-owned culture?" (Emphasize your collaborative spirit and commitment to shared success.)

• "What are your thoughts on sustainable design and LEED certification in the context of building engineering?" (Showcase your awareness of industry trends and HDR's focus areas.)

• "How do you approach mentoring junior engineers or designers on your project teams?" (Highlight your leadership and development skills.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio by project, clearly stating the project's objective, your role, key responsibilities, challenges, and outcomes. Use concise bullet points.

• Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use numbers to demonstrate impact (e.g., "Managed a $15M project budget," "Led a team of 10 engineers," "Reduced project delivery time by 10%").

• Visual Aids: Include diagrams, charts, or project renderings where appropriate to illustrate complexity and your contributions.

• Focus on Process: Explain the methodologies you used for project planning, execution, risk management, and quality control.

• Tailor to HDR: Select projects that align with HDR's areas of expertise, such as building engineering, infrastructure, or sustainable design.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be looking for candidates who can not only manage projects but also embody HDR's employee-owned culture and commitment to excellence. Be ready to provide specific, STAR method-based examples.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Technical Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the HDR careers portal via the provided link.

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight experience in project management, building engineering, client relations, financial oversight, and team leadership, using keywords from the job description and AI insights.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Compile a selection of your most relevant projects that showcase your ability to manage complex engineering initiatives, demonstrate client satisfaction, and illustrate your financial and team management skills. Ensure it's well-organized and ready for presentation.

• Research HDR: Familiarize yourself with HDR's core values, recent projects (especially in the Minneapolis/Saint Louis Park region), and their commitment to employee ownership and sustainability.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare for common interview questions related to project management, leadership, and problem-solving, using specific examples from your experience.

⚠️ 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.

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