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: Building Engineering Operations & Project Management

Date Posted: 2026-06-26

Experience Level: 5-10 Years (Mid-Senior Level)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage multidisciplinary teams through the entire project lifecycle for complex building engineering projects, ensuring successful project delivery from initiation to close-out.

• Drive client relations, marketing efforts, and contractual engagements, serving as a key point of contact for stakeholders.

• Oversee the production and coordination of multiple small to medium-sized projects concurrently, demonstrating strong organizational and time management skills.

• Manage project financials, including tracking budget parameters and adjusting workloads to meet financial and schedule objectives.

• Implement and enforce Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) procedures to ensure project standards and client satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within HDR's Building Engineering Services Group, focusing on the design of critical infrastructure for the digital age and evolving commercial environments. The "Technical Design Manager" title, combined with responsibilities like client relations, project delivery, and team leadership, indicates a blend of technical oversight and project management within the engineering and construction sector, rather than a traditional Revenue or Sales Operations role. The focus is on operationalizing engineering design processes and project execution.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Direct and coordinate the efforts of single or multidiscipline engineering teams throughout all project phases, from development and initiation to final close-out.

• Take ownership of all project aspects for complex small to medium-scale projects, or manage routine large-scale projects, ensuring comprehensive oversight.

• Manage the concurrent production and coordination of multiple small to medium-sized projects, optimizing resource allocation and workflow.

• Cultivate and maintain strong client relationships, actively participating in marketing initiatives, contractual negotiations, and critical design and production meetings.

• Lead collaborative work sessions for deliverable development, ensuring alignment and input from all relevant staff and stakeholders.

• Proactively coordinate staffing and workload distribution across the project lifecycle, guaranteeing timely completion of all project deliverables.

• Diligently track the financial performance of projects, coordinating with team members to adjust work efforts and ensure adherence to agreed-upon budget and schedule parameters.

• Collaborate closely with Accounting, Operational, and Business leadership for periodic project performance reviews and strategic alignment.

• Implement and oversee robust QA/QC procedures to uphold project quality standards and client expectations.

• Execute other essential duties as assigned to support project success and team objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize hands-on project leadership and management within an engineering context. For operations professionals, this translates to managing project timelines, resource allocation, client communication, and financial tracking – all core operational functions applied to engineering projects. The "production meetings" and "deliverable development" aspects highlight the need for process-oriented thinking and efficiency.

🎓 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 (Preferred)

• General background-related experience (Required)

• Demonstrated experience leading teams on projects (Preferred) Required Skills:

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel) (Required)

• Ability to manage project timelines and deliverables.

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for client and team interaction.

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

• Project Management experience with complex small to medium or routine large projects.

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

• PMP (Project Management Professional) certification.

• Registered Architect or Professional Engineer licensure.

• Experience with Microsoft Project for scheduling and workload management.

• Good planning and mentoring skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications highlight a blend of foundational requirements and preferred advanced certifications and experience. For operations candidates, transferable skills include project management methodologies, client relationship management, financial tracking, and team coordination, even if the specific technical domain is different. The emphasis on "attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee-owned culture" suggests a need for strong collaboration and engagement skills.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Documented examples of successfully managed building engineering projects, showcasing scope, budget, and timeline adherence.

• Case studies demonstrating leadership in multidisciplinary team coordination and project delivery.

• Evidence of client relationship management and successful stakeholder engagement.

• Portfolios should highlight proficiency in implementing QA/QC procedures and driving project efficiency. Process Documentation:

• Showcase a systematic approach to project planning, execution, and monitoring.

• Provide examples of workflow optimization strategies used to manage project timelines and resources effectively.

• Demonstrate experience in developing and implementing process improvements for engineering design or project management functions.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated, a "Technical Design Manager" role within an engineering firm inherently requires a structured approach to project management. Candidates are expected to demonstrate their capabilities through a portfolio that illustrates their command of project lifecycles, team leadership, client management, and adherence to quality and financial controls, akin to how operations professionals showcase process optimization and system implementation.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

The estimated annual salary range for a Technical Design Manager in Minneapolis, MN, with 5-10 years of experience, is typically between $95,000 and $130,000. This range is based on industry benchmarks for similar roles in the engineering and construction sector in this metropolitan area, considering the preferred qualifications and responsibilities outlined.

Benefits:

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

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage.

• Retirement Savings Plan: Including 401(k) options.

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

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

• Life and Disability Insurance: Long-term and short-term disability coverage.

• Wellness Programs: Initiatives to support employee health and well-being. Working Hours:

• Standard full-time work commitment is approximately 40 hours per week.

• Flexibility may be offered based on project needs and team coordination, but the role is primarily on-site, requiring consistent presence during business hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimates are based on research for Project Manager/Technical Manager roles within engineering firms in the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area. Benefits are typical for a large, established employee-owned firm like HDR, with a strong emphasis on professional growth and ownership. The "On-site" work arrangement suggests a standard office schedule.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering, Architecture, Consulting, Construction Services. HDR is a global leader in designing infrastructure and facilities, focusing on professional services that span across various sectors including transportation, water, energy, government, and buildings.

Company Size: HDR is a large organization, likely employing over 10,000 employees globally. This size indicates a robust organizational structure with established processes and ample opportunities for growth and specialization.

Founded: HDR was founded in 1917. With over a century of history, the company possesses deep industry knowledge, a strong reputation, and a history of innovation and client service.

Team Structure:

• The role operates within the Building Engineering Services Group, suggesting a specialized division focused on building systems and design.

• The team likely comprises a diverse group of engineers (mechanical, electrical, structural, civil), architects, designers, project managers, and support staff.

• This "Technical Design Manager" will likely lead project teams, reporting to a senior manager or director within the Building Engineering division, and collaborating extensively with other project managers, discipline leads, and client representatives.

• Cross-functional collaboration is inherent, requiring seamless integration with various engineering disciplines and potentially with HDR's architectural and construction management arms. Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making, leveraging technical expertise and project performance metrics.

• Emphasis on collaborative problem-solving and innovative design solutions.

• Structured project management methodologies to ensure efficiency, quality, and client satisfaction.

• Commitment to sustainable design principles (LEED) and client-centric service delivery.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: HDR's description as an employee-owned company is a significant cultural differentiator. This often translates to a culture of shared responsibility, increased engagement, and a focus on long-term company success, which is directly relevant to how individuals approach their roles and team dynamics. The company's long history and global presence suggest a stable yet dynamic work environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a Mid-Senior to Senior level, requiring substantial project management experience and technical leadership. It's a key management role responsible for project success, client satisfaction, and team performance within the building engineering domain.

Reporting Structure: The Technical Design Manager typically reports to a higher-level manager within the Building Engineering Services Group, such as a Director of Operations, a Principal Engineer, or a Senior Project Manager. They, in turn, lead project teams composed of engineers, designers, and technical staff.

Operations Impact: The Technical Design Manager's impact is directly tied to the successful execution of building engineering projects. This includes ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to high-quality standards. Their work influences client satisfaction, HDR's reputation, and the company's financial performance through effective project delivery and client relationship management. The role contributes to building critical infrastructure that supports technological advancement and human experience.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific building systems, sustainable design (LEED), or emerging technologies within the built environment.

• Project Management Advancement: Progress to managing larger, more complex, or international projects, potentially leading to roles like Program Manager or Director of Project Management.

• Leadership Development: Transition into senior leadership roles within HDR, managing larger teams, business units, or client portfolios.

• Mentorship and Training: Develop leadership and mentoring skills by guiding junior engineers and project managers, contributing to the development of future talent within HDR.

• Client Relationship Management: Expand client portfolio and foster strategic partnerships, moving towards business development or client account management roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth trajectory for a Technical Design Manager at HDR is strongly tied to both technical engineering expertise and project management acumen. Career progression involves taking on greater project complexity, broader team leadership, and enhanced client management responsibilities, mirroring the advancement paths seen in operations leadership roles focused on strategic execution and stakeholder management.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is primarily on-site, indicating a traditional office-based work environment within HDR's Minneapolis or Saint Louis Park locations. This environment is designed to facilitate collaboration, team meetings, and direct oversight of project activities.

Office Location(s):

• Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States

• Saint Louis Park, Minnesota, United States

These locations offer access to a vibrant professional community and are situated within a major metropolitan area, providing convenience and resources.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is expected to be collaborative, fostering interaction among project teams, discipline leads, and management.

• Access to standard office technology, including project management software, design tools, and communication platforms, is expected.

• Opportunities for direct interaction with colleagues across various engineering disciplines, fostering knowledge sharing and cross-functional learning. Work Schedule:

• The role requires a standard full-time commitment, approximately 40 hours per week.

• While on-site presence is expected, some flexibility may be available depending on project demands and team needs, but the core requirement is consistent availability during business hours to manage teams and client interactions effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature of this role emphasizes in-person collaboration, which is crucial for technical design and project management where real-time problem-solving and team coordination are vital. This contrasts with remote roles and highlights the importance of physical presence for team cohesion and project oversight.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess alignment with the required and preferred qualifications.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the hiring manager to delve into your project management experience, technical background, leadership style, and understanding of HDR's culture and values. Be prepared to discuss specific projects from your portfolio.

• Team/Panel Interview: You may meet with other members of the Building Engineering team, including potential colleagues or senior managers. This stage assesses your technical capabilities, problem-solving skills, and cultural fit. Expect questions related to team leadership and collaborative challenges.

• Case Study/Presentation (Potential): You might be asked to present a case study from your portfolio showcasing a complex project you managed, focusing on challenges, solutions, outcomes, and your specific role. Prepare to discuss your approach to client relations, budget management, and QA/QC.

• Final Interview: A concluding discussion, possibly with a senior executive, to finalize the decision and discuss compensation and benefits.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Project Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the scope, your specific role, key challenges, innovative solutions, and quantifiable results (e.g., budget savings, schedule adherence, client satisfaction metrics).

• Showcase Leadership: Provide examples of how you led, motivated, and managed multidisciplinary teams, resolving conflicts and fostering collaboration.

• Demonstrate Process Management: Illustrate your systematic approach to project planning, execution, risk management, and QA/QC implementation. Use diagrams or flowcharts if helpful.

• Client Engagement: Include examples of successful client interactions, negotiation strategies, and relationship building.

• Tailor to HDR: Research HDR's recent projects and values. Frame your portfolio examples to demonstrate how your experience aligns with their focus areas, such as sustainable design or complex infrastructure.

Challenge Preparation:

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Be ready to discuss hypothetical project challenges (e.g., scope creep, budget overruns, team conflicts) and how you would address them.

• Leadership Scenarios: Prepare to talk about how you mentor team members, delegate tasks, and provide feedback.

• Technical Acumen: While not the sole focus, be prepared to discuss technical aspects of building engineering projects you've managed, demonstrating an understanding of the design process.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio review and potential case study presentation indicates that practical demonstration of project management skills, leadership, and technical oversight is critical. Candidates should prepare to articulate their experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) and focus on quantifiable achievements.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Microsoft Office Suite: Essential for daily operations, including Word for documentation, Excel for data analysis and tracking, and PowerPoint for presentations.

• Microsoft Project: A key tool for project scheduling, resource allocation, and timeline management, particularly for managing multiple concurrent projects.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with other project management platforms (e.g., Asana, Monday.com, Primavera P6) may be beneficial, though MS Project is specifically mentioned.

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

Analytics & Reporting:

• Excel: For financial tracking, performance analysis, and generating project reports.

• Internal Reporting Systems: HDR likely utilizes internal systems for project financial tracking and performance dashboards.

CRM & Automation:

• Client Relationship Management (CRM) Systems: Experience with CRM tools for managing client interactions and sales pipeline is advantageous, especially for client relations and marketing aspects.

• Document Management Systems: Proficiency in systems for organizing and storing project documentation, drawings, and specifications.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly listed as "operations" tools, the Microsoft Office Suite and Microsoft Project are critical for operationalizing project management and team coordination in this role. Proficiency in these tools is essential for managing workflows, budgets, and schedules, which are core operational functions.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Employee Ownership: A strong commitment to the company's success as employee-owners, fostering a collaborative and engaged work environment.

• Integrity and Respect: Valuing honesty, transparency, and treating all individuals with respect, creating an inclusive atmosphere.

• Innovation and Excellence: Driving forward with new ideas, pushing boundaries in design and engineering, and striving for high-quality outcomes.

• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and exceeding client expectations, building long-term partnerships through reliable service and impactful solutions.

• Collaboration: Working together across disciplines and teams to achieve shared goals, leveraging diverse perspectives.

Collaboration Style:

• Team-Oriented: Emphasis on working collaboratively in project teams, sharing knowledge, and supporting colleagues.

• Cross-Functional Integration: Active collaboration between different engineering disciplines (mechanical, electrical, structural, civil), architects, and project managers.

• Open Communication: Encouraging open dialogue, feedback, and constructive discussion to solve complex problems and improve processes.

• Mentorship and Support: A culture that supports the development of team members through guidance, feedback, and shared learning experiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: HDR's emphasis on employee ownership and inclusion shapes its collaborative culture. For operations professionals, this means a culture that values shared responsibility, open communication, and a collective drive for excellence, all of which are crucial for effective project and process management.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Multiple Projects: Balancing the demands of coordinating several small to medium projects concurrently, each with unique stakeholders, timelines, and technical requirements.

• Client Expectations: Navigating complex client relationships, managing scope changes, and ensuring satisfaction on technically demanding projects.

• Team Dynamics: Leading diverse engineering teams, fostering collaboration, resolving interdisciplinary conflicts, and motivating individuals to perform at their best.

• Budget and Schedule Adherence: Maintaining strict control over project finances and timelines in a dynamic project environment, requiring proactive problem-solving and resource management.

• Technical Complexity: Keeping abreast of evolving building technologies, sustainable design practices, and regulatory requirements to ensure designs are cutting-edge and compliant.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Project Management Certifications: Pursuing and maintaining certifications like PMP to enhance project management expertise.

• Sustainable Design Training: Developing deeper knowledge in LEED accreditation and sustainable building practices.

• Technical Skill Enhancement: Engaging in training related to advanced design software, BIM (Building Information Modeling), or specialized engineering fields.

• Leadership and Mentorship Programs: Participating in internal programs focused on developing leadership, team management, and mentorship capabilities.

• Industry Conferences and Seminars: Attending events to stay current with industry trends, network with peers, and learn about new technologies and methodologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are common in project management and technical leadership roles. Addressing these effectively requires strong operational skills in planning, risk management, communication, and resource allocation, which are transferable to many operations-focused positions.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Project Management Philosophy: "Describe your approach to managing complex building engineering projects from initiation to close-out. What are your key principles for ensuring successful delivery?" (Prepare to discuss your lifecycle management, risk assessment, and stakeholder engagement strategies).

• Team Leadership & Conflict Resolution: "How do you lead and motivate multidisciplinary engineering teams? Describe a time you had to resolve a conflict between different engineering disciplines on a project." (Focus on your communication, delegation, and conflict resolution techniques).

• Client Management: "How do you build and maintain strong client relationships, especially when dealing with challenging projects or scope changes?" (Highlight your client communication, negotiation, and expectation management skills).

• Financial Oversight: "What is your process for tracking project budgets and ensuring projects stay within financial parameters?" (Be ready to discuss budgeting, forecasting, and cost control measures).

Company & Culture Questions:

• Employee Ownership: "HDR is an employee-owned company. How do you see yourself contributing to our employee-owned culture and fostering collaboration?" (Emphasize your commitment to teamwork, shared responsibility, and company success).

• Values Alignment: "Our values include integrity, excellence, and innovation. Can you provide an example of how you've demonstrated these values in your previous roles?" (Connect your past experiences to HDR's stated values).

• Impact: "HDR aims to 'make great things possible.' How do you envision your role contributing to this mission and impacting clients and communities?" (Discuss the tangible outcomes of your work on infrastructure and built environments).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly define the Situation, your Task, the Actions you took, and the Results achieved. Quantify achievements whenever possible (e.g., "reduced project costs by 10%," "delivered project 2 weeks ahead of schedule").

• Focus on Leadership: Emphasize your role in leading teams, making critical decisions, and driving project momentum.

• Highlight Process & QA/QC: Clearly explain the project management processes you followed and how you ensured quality through QA/QC procedures.

• Visual Aids: Use clear, concise slides or documents. Include diagrams, charts, or key metrics that visually represent project success.

• Be Prepared for Technical Depth: While focusing on management, be ready to discuss technical challenges and solutions at a high level, demonstrating your understanding of the building engineering context.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not just technical knowledge but also strong project management, leadership, and client-facing skills. The emphasis on an employee-owned culture means candidates should highlight their collaborative and proactive nature.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Technical Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the HDR career portal link provided.

• Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume to highlight your project management experience, leadership roles, successful project deliveries, client relations management, and any relevant technical or sustainability credentials (LEED, PMP, PE/RA). Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate 2-3 key project examples that best showcase your ability to manage complex projects, lead teams, and achieve client satisfaction. Ensure these examples align with the responsibilities and preferred qualifications mentioned.

• Craft Your Cover Letter: If a cover letter is requested, use it to articulate your enthusiasm for HDR's employee-owned culture and your specific experience relevant to building engineering project management.

• Research HDR: Familiarize yourself with HDR's recent projects, company values, and their mission. Understand their impact in the building engineering sector and how your skills align with their goals.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare to articulate your experience using the STAR method, focusing on leadership, problem-solving, and quantifiable achievements, especially in relation to project management and team coordination.

⚠️ 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.