VDC Electrical Assistant Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: VDC Electrical Assistant Design Manager

Company: Power Design, Inc.

Location: Tampa Bay, FL, United States (St. Petersburg, Gibsonton)

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Virtual Design & Construction (VDC) / Building Information Modeling (BIM) Operations

Date Posted: August 20, 2026

Experience Level: 3+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Support the Preconstruction Virtual Design & Construction (VDC) process by developing detailed coordination models, installation designs, shop drawings, and construction documentation.

• Leverage Building Information Modeling (BIM) technologies, including Revit, AutoCAD, and Navisworks, to create and refine project models.

• Collaborate extensively with internal project teams, customers, consultants, and trade partners to devise innovative, code-compliant, and cost-effective installation solutions.

• Drive project success through meticulous design coordination, constructability reviews, prefabrication planning, and installation detailing, adhering to Power Design's best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is centered within the VDC/BIM operations domain, focusing on the critical intersection of design, technology, and field execution in electrical construction. The "Assistant Design Manager" title suggests a career-development track, where the individual will gain experience and skills to eventually manage VDC processes and teams independently. The emphasis on "installation designs" and "prefabrication planning" highlights a direct link to operational efficiency and on-site execution.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Assist VDC Design Managers and Project Executives in managing and executing VDC processes for assigned projects throughout the preconstruction and design coordination phases.

• Develop and maintain detailed BIM models using Revit, AutoCAD, Navisworks, and other relevant software, ensuring accuracy and adherence to project specifications and Power Design standards.

• Conduct thorough 2D and 3D modeling and coordination for specific systems and project scopes, identifying potential clashes and design conflicts early.

• Actively participate in clash detection and coordination meetings with a diverse group of stakeholders, including internal operations, architects, engineers, consultants, general contractors, and trade partners.

• Review contract documents, BIM Execution Plans (BEPs), scopes of work, specifications, drawings, and jurisdictional requirements to ensure all installations are code-compliant and cost-effective.

• Generate coordination, fabrication, prefabrication, and installation drawings that meet project requirements and Power Design's high-quality standards.

• Liaise directly with operations teams to provide essential support for project execution, installation sequencing, and constructability reviews, bridging the gap between design and field implementation.

• Contribute to maintaining project schedules, tracking deliverables, and generating accurate production reporting for VDC activities.

• Communicate clearly and proactively with all internal and external project stakeholders to resolve design conflicts, address queries, and support overarching project objectives.

• Employ advanced BIM technologies and workflows to enhance project coordination efficiency, improve overall project quality, and minimize on-site issues.

• Maintain an exceptionally high level of attention to detail and a steadfast commitment to quality across all project deliverables, from initial modeling to final documentation.

• Represent Power Design professionally and effectively in all project-related meetings, coordination efforts, and client interactions.

• Uphold and embody Power Design's core values: Integrity, Accountability, Teamwork, Innovation, and Growth in all professional activities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a hands-on role in BIM modeling and coordination, with a significant emphasis on bridging the gap between design intent and practical, on-site installation. The requirement to coordinate directly with operations teams and support prefabrication planning underscores the role's operational impact and its focus on practical execution and efficiency.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Associate's degree, Bachelor's degree, a recognized industry certification, completion of a registered apprenticeship program, or a combination of education and professional experience equivalent to these qualifications. Experience:

• A minimum of 3 years of progressive experience in construction, Virtual Design & Construction (VDC), Building Information Modeling (BIM) modeling, detailing, or installation within Electrical, Mechanical, or Plumbing (MEP) systems. Required Skills:

• BIM Software Proficiency: Expert-level proficiency in Autodesk Revit is essential.

• CAD Software Knowledge: Working knowledge of Autodesk AutoCAD for 2D drafting and design.

• Coordination & Visualization: Demonstrated ability to utilize Autodesk Navisworks for clash detection, model aggregation, and project visualization.

• Construction Document Interpretation: Proven ability to interpret complex construction drawings, technical specifications, submittals, and contractual documents.

• Coordination & Clash Detection: Solid understanding of construction coordination processes, effective clash detection methodologies, and industry best practices for installation.

• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, crucial for stakeholder engagement and conflict resolution.

• Organizational Skills: Strong organizational abilities to manage multiple tasks, prioritize effectively, and meet project deadlines.

• Problem-Solving: Aptitude for identifying issues, analyzing root causes, and developing practical, efficient solutions.

• Collaboration: Proven ability to collaborate effectively with diverse internal teams (e.g., operations, project management) and external stakeholders (customers, consultants, trade partners).

• Quality Focus: Commitment to delivering high-quality work with meticulous attention to detail in all modeling and documentation.

• Code & Standards Knowledge: Working knowledge of applicable building codes and industry standards relevant to electrical systems and construction.

Preferred Skills:

• Prefabrication Support: Prior experience supporting prefabrication processes, including design for manufacturing and assembly (DfMA).

• Field Layout Experience: Familiarity with or experience in field layout processes and technologies.

• Installation Planning: Experience in contributing to or developing detailed installation plans.

• Additional BIM Tools: Familiarity with other BIM software or related VDC technologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on specific Autodesk software (Revit, AutoCAD, Navisworks) is critical. The requirement for "working knowledge" of AutoCAD and Navisworks, alongside "proficiency" in Revit, suggests a clear hierarchy of skill importance for this role. The preferred skills in prefabrication and installation planning directly align with operational efficiency and cost-saving initiatives, making them highly valuable.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Coordination Model Examples: Showcase examples of coordinated BIM models, highlighting clash detection resolution and interdisciplinary coordination efforts.

• Installation Drawing Samples: Include samples of detailed installation drawings or shop drawings that clearly illustrate constructability and prefabrication considerations.

• Process Improvement Case Studies: Present 1-2 concise case studies demonstrating how your VDC contributions led to specific process improvements, cost savings, or efficiency gains in construction projects.

• System Workflow Documentation: Provide examples of documented workflows or process diagrams related to BIM modeling, coordination, or fabrication, showcasing your understanding of operational processes.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Demonstrate experience in designing and optimizing BIM workflows to improve efficiency, accuracy, and collaboration within project teams.

• Implementation & Automation: Showcase understanding of how BIM tools and processes are implemented on projects and any experience with automating repetitive tasks within the BIM environment.

• Measurement & Analysis: Illustrate how you have contributed to measuring the impact of VDC processes, such as tracking clash resolution rates, model accuracy, or the impact of prefabrication on project timelines and costs.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a VDC role, a portfolio is crucial. The emphasis should be on demonstrating practical application of BIM skills to solve construction challenges and drive operational efficiency. Case studies that quantify improvements (e.g., reduction in RFIs, cost savings from prefabrication, improved installation timelines) will be highly impactful.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for VDC/BIM professionals with 3+ years of experience in the Tampa Bay, Florida area, the estimated salary range for this position is approximately $70,000 - $95,000 per year. This range can vary based on the candidate's specific qualifications, the exact scope of responsibilities, and Power Design's internal compensation structure. Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: National health and dental insurance plans are provided.

• Life and Disability Insurance: Includes life insurance, as well as short-term and long-term disability plans to offer financial protection.

• Paid Time Off: Generous paid vacation and holidays are offered.

• Employee Discounts: Access to national discount programs for a variety of services and products (e.g., movie tickets, flowers, rental cars, phones, vehicles).

• Retirement Savings: A 401(k) retirement plan is available to help employees save for the future.

• Performance Incentives: Incentive and recognition programs are in place to reward performance and contributions.

• Relocation Assistance: Relocation opportunities and potential assistance may be available for qualified candidates.

Working Hours:

• This is a full-time position, typically requiring approximately 40 hours per week. While on-site presence is expected, the company may offer some flexibility in daily scheduling, depending on project needs and team coordination.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on data from various job boards and salary aggregators for similar VDC/BIM roles in the Tampa Bay area, considering the stated experience level. Benefits are directly pulled from the provided information, highlighting key aspects relevant to professionals seeking stability and perks.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Power Design, Inc. operates within the Electrical Contracting sector, a vital part of the broader Construction and Engineering industries. They specialize in providing electrical construction services for large-scale commercial, industrial, and institutional projects across the United States. This context means the VDC team operates within a fast-paced, project-driven environment where precision, efficiency, and safety are paramount. The operations teams are focused on delivering complex electrical installations on time and within budget.

Company Size: Power Design, Inc. is a significant player in the electrical contracting market. While the exact number of employees isn't provided, the description of "national health and dental plans," "national discount programs," and "national company" suggests a large organization, likely employing hundreds or even thousands of individuals across multiple locations. For operations professionals, this size implies structured processes, established VDC departments, and opportunities for specialization and career advancement within a robust corporate framework.

Founded: Information on the founding date is not explicitly provided. However, the company's national reach and comprehensive benefits package suggest a well-established organization with a solid history and a mature operational structure.

Team Structure:

• VDC Department: The VDC Assistant Design Manager will be part of a dedicated Virtual Design & Construction team, likely comprising VDC Design Managers, VDC Coordinators, BIM Specialists, and potentially other VDC roles. The team size will vary based on the active project load.

• Reporting Structure: The role reports to a VDC Design Manager and/or a Project Executive, indicating a hierarchical structure within the VDC department that aligns with project management oversight.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Significant collaboration is expected with project management teams, field operations supervisors, preconstruction estimators, and external project stakeholders (architects, engineers, general contractors, owners). This requires strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate technical information effectively across different disciplines.

Methodology:

• Data Analysis & Insights: VDC processes inherently rely on data derived from BIM models. The team likely uses this data for clash detection, quantity take-offs, installation planning, and to provide insights into constructability and cost-effectiveness.

• Workflow Planning & Optimization: A core function of VDC is to plan and optimize workflows. This involves leveraging BIM to sequence construction, plan for prefabrication, and identify potential site challenges before they occur, thereby streamlining the overall construction process.

• Automation & Efficiency: The use of advanced BIM technologies aims to automate tasks where possible and drive overall project efficiency. This could include automated drawing generation, reporting, or integration with other project management software.

Company Website: https://www.powerdesigninc.us/ (Inferred from domain_derived)

📝 Enhancement Note: Connecting the company's industry and size to the operations role is key. For VDC, this means understanding the demands of large-scale construction projects and how BIM/VDC operations support the core business of electrical contracting. The emphasis on collaboration with operations teams is a critical link.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as an "Assistant Design Manager" within the VDC/BIM operations function. It is an intermediate-level position, suitable for professionals with 3+ years of experience who are looking to deepen their technical expertise and move towards leadership. It serves as a crucial stepping stone for individuals aiming to become fully-fledged VDC Design Managers, BIM Managers, or even progress into broader project management roles within the construction industry. The responsibilities involve both detailed technical work (modeling, coordination) and foundational management tasks (supporting managers, reporting, stakeholder communication).

Reporting Structure: The VDC Assistant Design Manager will report directly to a VDC Design Manager and/or a Project Executive. This provides exposure to senior-level project oversight and VDC strategy. The role will also involve frequent interaction and collaboration with field operations teams, project managers, and external stakeholders, fostering a comprehensive understanding of project dynamics.

Operations Impact: The VDC Assistant Design Manager directly impacts operational efficiency and project success by:

• Reducing Rework: Proactive clash detection and coordination minimize costly on-site rework and installation errors.

• Improving Installation Efficiency: Detailed installation designs and prefabrication planning streamline on-site assembly and reduce labor time.

• Enhancing Safety: Identifying potential hazards through 3D modeling can lead to safer installation practices.

• Cost Control: By optimizing designs and preventing errors, the role contributes to better project budget adherence.

• Quality Assurance: Ensuring accurate models and documentation leads to higher quality installations.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in advanced Revit functionalities, parametric modeling, and potentially explore specialized areas like computational design or BIM for facility management.

• Leadership Development: Progress to a VDC Design Manager role, taking ownership of VDC processes for entire projects, managing VDC teams, and developing VDC strategies.

• Cross-functional Mobility: Gain a comprehensive understanding of the construction lifecycle, enabling potential transitions into project management, estimating, or operations leadership roles within Power Design.

• Industry Certifications: Pursue certifications such as Autodesk Certified Professional (ACP) or other VDC/BIM-related credentials to enhance professional standing and marketability.

• Continuous Learning: Engage with new VDC technologies, software updates, and evolving industry best practices through training, conferences, and internal knowledge-sharing initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section translates the job title and responsibilities into a clear career path. Highlighting the direct operational impact of VDC work and outlining specific growth opportunities beyond the immediate role is valuable for ambitious candidates.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This position is based in an on-site office environment within Power Design's Tampa Bay operations. This implies a professional office setting conducive to focused work, collaboration, and project team interaction. It is not a remote position.

Office Location(s): The role is based in the Tampa Bay area, with specific mentions of "FL Tampa Bay HQ" and "St Petersburg, FL" as potential work locations. This suggests that the primary office or project hub is in or near St. Petersburg, with potential for the role to support projects across the broader Tampa Bay region, including areas like Gibsonton. Accessibility will depend on the specific office designated and proximity for the candidate.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The office workspace is designed to foster collaboration among VDC team members, project managers, and other support staff. Regular project meetings and coordination sessions will be a key part of the daily routine.

• Technology & Tools: Employees will have access to the necessary hardware (computers, monitors) and software licenses for VDC tools such as Revit, AutoCAD, Navisworks, and other project-specific applications. A reliable IT infrastructure is expected to support these demanding software platforms.

• Team Interaction: Expect frequent face-to-face interaction with colleagues within the VDC department and with project teams. This environment supports direct communication, quick problem-solving, and team cohesion, which are essential for efficient VDC operations.

Work Schedule: The standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, consistent with a full-time role. While the company emphasizes on-site presence, there might be some flexibility in daily start and end times, subject to project demands and team coordination requirements. However, the core expectation is consistent availability during standard business hours to support project timelines and coordination meetings.

📝 Enhancement Note: Clarifying the "on-site" nature and detailing the implications for a professional office setting, technology access, and team interaction provides a realistic picture of the daily work environment for an operations professional.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

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

• Hiring Manager Interview: An interview with the VDC Design Manager or Project Executive to delve deeper into technical skills, VDC methodologies, project experience, and problem-solving capabilities. This stage will likely involve scenario-based questions.

• Technical Assessment/Portfolio Review: Candidates may be asked to present their portfolio, walk through specific project examples, and potentially complete a practical VDC/BIM exercise or assessment to evaluate their modeling and coordination skills.

• Team/Cross-functional Interview: An opportunity to meet with other VDC team members or operations personnel to assess collaboration style and team fit.

• Final Interview: Potentially a final interview with a senior leader (e.g., Director of VDC or VP of Operations) for final approval.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Select Projects: Choose 2-3 projects that best showcase your skills relevant to electrical systems, coordination, and installation detailing.

• Highlight Your Role: Clearly articulate your specific contributions and responsibilities within each project. Use "I" statements for individual work and "We" for team efforts, specifying your part.

• Focus on Process & Impact: For each project, explain the VDC process followed, the challenges encountered, and how you used BIM/VDC to overcome them. Quantify results whenever possible (e.g., "Reduced clashes by X%", "Contributed to Y% cost savings through prefabrication").

• Showcase Technical Skills: Demonstrate proficiency in Revit for modeling and coordination, and your ability to use Navisworks for clash detection and reporting. Include examples of detailed installation drawings or shop drawings.

• Prepare for Questions: Be ready to discuss your approach to coordination meetings, how you handle design conflicts, and your understanding of constructability and code compliance.

Challenge Preparation:

• BIM Software Proficiency: Be prepared for practical exercises involving Revit modeling, clash detection in Navisworks, or interpreting construction documents.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Anticipate questions about how you would approach specific coordination challenges, resolve design conflicts, or contribute to prefabrication planning.

• Communication & Collaboration: Practice explaining complex technical concepts clearly and concisely, as you may need to articulate your VDC strategies or findings to non-technical stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: Tailoring interview preparation to the specific VDC/BIM function is crucial. Emphasizing the portfolio's role in demonstrating practical skills and operational impact, alongside preparing for technical assessments, provides actionable advice.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Autodesk Revit: The core platform for 3D modeling, design development, and documentation. Proficiency is expected for creating detailed electrical systems models.

• Autodesk AutoCAD: Used for 2D drafting, design adjustments, and potentially integrating with BIM workflows. A working knowledge is required.

• Autodesk Navisworks: Essential for model aggregation, clash detection, coordination meetings, and project visualization. Key for identifying and resolving interdisciplinary conflicts.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Navisworks Reports: Generating clash detection reports, viewpoints, and model review summaries.

• BIM Data Extraction: Utilizing tools within Revit or third-party plugins to extract data for quantity take-offs, scheduling integration, or cost analysis.

• Project Management Software Integration: Potential need to interface with project management platforms (e.g., Procore, Autodesk Construction Cloud) for document control and reporting.

CRM & Automation:

• Internal Project Management Systems: Likely use of Power Design's internal systems for project tracking, document management, and communication.

• Collaboration Platforms: Tools like Microsoft Teams or similar for team communication, file sharing, and virtual meetings.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section is critical for VDC roles. Clearly listing the primary software and their expected usage context helps candidates understand the technical demands and prepare accordingly. Highlighting the integration aspect is also important.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity: Upholding honesty and ethical conduct in all project dealings, from modeling accuracy to stakeholder interactions.

• Accountability: Taking ownership of assigned tasks and deliverables, ensuring accuracy and timely completion, and being responsible for the impact of VDC processes on project outcomes.

• Teamwork: Collaborating effectively with internal VDC teams, field operations, project management, and external partners to achieve shared project goals. This involves open communication and mutual support.

• Innovation: Actively seeking and applying new technologies, methodologies, and creative solutions within VDC to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance installation quality.

• Growth: Committing to continuous learning and professional development, embracing new challenges, and contributing to the growth of the VDC department and Power Design as a whole.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The culture encourages strong integration between the VDC team and field operations. This means VDC professionals are expected to understand site realities and work closely with those executing the work.

• Process Review & Feedback: An environment where processes are regularly reviewed, and feedback is encouraged from all levels to identify areas for improvement in BIM workflows and coordination strategies.

• Knowledge Sharing: Fostering a culture where team members share best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise to elevate the entire VDC department's capabilities. This includes sharing insights from coordination meetings and successful installation strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: Aligning the role's values with the company's stated core values (Integrity, Accountability, Teamwork, Innovation, Growth) provides insight into expected behaviors and cultural fit for operations professionals.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Diverse Stakeholder Expectations: Balancing the needs and technical understanding of various project stakeholders (owners, architects, engineers, contractors, field teams) requires strong communication and negotiation skills.

• Resolving Complex Design Conflicts: Electrical systems are intricate and often intersect with other building systems. Identifying and resolving clashes in a timely manner while maintaining design integrity can be challenging.

• Adapting to Project Changes: Construction projects are dynamic. Responding efficiently to design revisions or unforeseen site conditions while minimizing disruption to schedules and budgets is a constant challenge.

• Keeping Pace with Technology: The VDC/BIM landscape evolves rapidly. Staying current with software updates, new tools, and emerging industry standards requires a commitment to continuous learning.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced BIM Specialization: Opportunities to gain deeper expertise in areas like MEP coordination, parametric design with Dynamo, or even exploring VDC for specific construction phases like commissioning.

• Project Management Fundamentals: Exposure to project management principles through collaboration with Project Executives and Project Managers, potentially leading to future project leadership roles.

• Industry Conferences & Training: Support for attending industry events, workshops, and advanced training sessions focused on VDC, BIM, and construction technology.

• Mentorship Programs: Potential for mentorship from experienced VDC Design Managers or senior operations leaders within Power Design, providing guidance on career development and technical skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: Identifying potential challenges and framing them as opportunities for skill development is a key aspect of career-focused job descriptions. This helps candidates assess their readiness and understand how the role fosters growth.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex clash you encountered on an electrical project and how you resolved it using BIM coordination. What was the impact on installation?" (Assesses problem-solving, technical application, and impact awareness).

• "How do you ensure effective communication and collaboration with field operations teams when developing installation designs?" (Evaluates understanding of operational integration and communication strategies).

• "Imagine a scenario where the design team proposes an installation method that conflicts with constructability best practices. How would you approach this situation to find an optimal solution?" (Tests critical thinking, negotiation skills, and focus on efficiency). Company & Culture Questions:

• "Based on your understanding of Power Design, how do you see the VDC Assistant Design Manager role contributing to the company's core values of Innovation and Growth?" (Assesses research and alignment with company ethos).

• "Describe your experience working within a cross-functional team. How do you build rapport and ensure alignment with colleagues from different departments, such as operations or estimating?" (Gauges collaboration style and interpersonal skills).

• "How do you measure the success of your VDC contributions on a project? What key performance indicators (KPIs) do you focus on?" (Probes understanding of impact measurement and data-driven approaches). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Narrative Arc: Structure your portfolio presentation with a clear beginning (project context), middle (your actions and the VDC process), and end (results and impact).

• Visual Storytelling: Use screenshots, model views, and drawings effectively to illustrate your points. Highlight key details that demonstrate your technical skills and problem-solving abilities.

• Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, present data that quantifies the benefits of your work (e.g., reduced RFIs, improved installation time, cost savings).

• Engage Your Audience: Be prepared to answer questions about your work and discuss your thought process. Make it an interactive session rather than a monologue.

📝 Enhancement Note: Providing example questions and presentation strategies tailored to a VDC/BIM role, focusing on technical application, operational impact, and collaboration, equips candidates with targeted preparation advice.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this VDC Electrical Assistant Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Power Design, Inc. Workday portal.

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight specific experience with electrical systems, BIM software (Revit, AutoCAD, Navisworks), coordination processes, and any contributions to prefabrication or installation planning. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Compile a digital portfolio showcasing your best work, including examples of BIM models, coordination drawings, installation details, and any case studies demonstrating process improvements or cost savings. Ensure it is easily shareable (e.g., PDF, online link).

• Research Power Design: Familiarize yourself with Power Design's projects, company values, and their approach to VDC/BIM. Understand their market position and the types of projects they undertake.

• Practice Your Pitch: Be ready to articulate your qualifications, explain your portfolio items clearly, and discuss how your skills align with the role's responsibilities and Power Design's operational goals during interviews.

⚠️ 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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