As a Senior Design Manager, you will oversee the planning, design, and coordination of major school modernization and capital improvement projects. You'll collaborate with architects, engineers, consultants, and District stakeholders to ensure projects are delivered on schedule, within budget, and in compliance with California codes and LAUSD design standards.
Key Responsibilities:- Lead the design process for school modernization, capital improvement, and critical repair projects.
- Manage multiple projects from planning and concept development through design completion and handoff to construction.
- Coordinate architects, engineers, consultants, and District stakeholders throughout the design process.
- Review design documents for quality, constructability, budget, schedule, and compliance with District standards.
- Provide guidance to architectural firms regarding project objectives, schedules, budgets, and design expectations.
- Coordinate with the Division of the State Architect (DSA) and ensure compliance with applicable codes and regulations.
- Evaluate design changes and recommend solutions that maintain project scope and budget.
- Assist in selecting architectural firms and managing consultant performance.
- Collaborate with Environmental Health & Safety, Maintenance & Operations, Project Execution, and other District departments.
- Participate in community outreach meetings supporting school improvement projects.
- Mentor team members and promote continuous improvement in design practices.
Requirements- Bachelor's degree in Architecture or Engineering.
- California Registered Architect or Professional Engineer license.
- Minimum 15 years of professional experience managing facility design or capital improvement projects.
- At least 5 years of experience supporting the design, planning, and construction of K-12 educational facilities.
- Extensive experience managing architects, consultants, and multidisciplinary design teams.
- Strong understanding of design management, contract administration, cost estimating, scheduling, and project delivery.
- Excellent communication, leadership, and stakeholder management skills.
Preferred Qualifications- Master's degree in Architecture or Engineering.
- Experience with California public school construction programs.
- Experience working with the Division of the State Architect (DSA).
- Knowledge of California educational facility codes, regulations, and design standards.
BenefitsWe offer one of the most competitive benefit packages in the industry.
- Medical, Dental & Vision: 100% employer-paid monthly premiums for employees and 50% coverage for dependents under our company-sponsored plan*
- Life Insurance: Company-paid coverage up to $50,000
- Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrues up to 80 hours per year with increased accrual based on tenure
- Sick Leave: 10 days of paid sick leave annually - well above the average of 5-6 days offered by most firms
- Holidays: 9 paid holidays, 2 floating holidays, and a paid day off for your BIRTHDAY!!!
- 401(k): Company match up to 4% (100% of the first 3%, 50% of the next 2%)
- Education Support: Assistance with tuition, licenses, and professional certifications
- Referral Bonus: Highest employee referral program of $5,000-$10,000 depending on level of hire
- Extra Paid Leave: For jury duty, bereavement leave, and voting time for local/state/federal elections
- Client Shutdown Days: Additional paid days off when client offices are closed
- Equipment: Laptop provided as needed
- Cell Phone Stipend: $100 monthly stipend for eligible roles
