Design Program Manager

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in California, +4 more states.

📋 Description

• Oversee all aspects of Routine and Complex Projects (40%)

• Propel project design from inception (site acquisition) through design and construction with a strong emphasis on Client Standards and their application across various projects.

• Formulate owner project requirements (OPR) and initiate space planning efforts / schematic design.

• Schedule and occasionally represent DLB during site visits, including existing condition surveys and punchlists.

• Facilitate coordination between internal design teams and external collaborators.

• Directly manage or supervise DLB Project Managers in handling the construction administration phase of projects, encompassing RFI responses, submittal reviews, and change order evaluations.

• Coordinate and assist with resource forecasting throughout the design program.

• Create, manage, and track project schedules.

• Engage in, organize, and/or lead project meetings with both internal and external stakeholders.

• Implement and perform QA/QC plans and specifications to guarantee completion in line with project scope and relevant guidelines and manuals.

• Oversee and coordinate activities of internal team members.

• Manage costs and timelines for proposed work with support from team leaders; assign and schedule tasks to project team members.

• Monitor and Control Project Financials (15%)

• Prepare, forecast, and oversee project budgets, profitability, margins, bill rates, and utilization while maintaining overall accountability for project profitability.

• Communicate with clients when additional fees or change orders are necessary.

• Recognize potential project risks and devise/implement strategies to mitigate impact and manage deviations from estimated costs and project timelines.

• Responsible for developing cost schedules and schedules of value for client progress billing.

• Manage Stakeholder Relations (25%)

• Lead the preparation of proposals, presentations, and the firm’s overall marketing efforts.

• Champion the promotion of the firm, its services, and expertise to current or prospective clients.

• Sustain client relationships to ensure ongoing positive interactions and collaborate with clients to identify and cultivate new projects.

• Serve as the primary contact for clients and foster effective, long-term relationships.

• Ensure client satisfaction through proactive communication.

• Create and finalize program reports.

• Development and Continuous Improvement (20%)

• Mentor team members and assist with training and development to foster a learning and growth-oriented environment.

• May contribute to or lead strategic planning for the group.

• May assist in the hiring process.

• May contribute to or lead various departmental initiatives, including the development and standardization of tools related to client management, business development, project/program profitability, and workload/resource planning.

• May have direct reports and responsibilities as a people manager.

• Completion of Assigned Tasks and Deliverables on Time and on Budget

• Technology, Digital Tools & AI-Enabled Efficiency

• Identify opportunities and spearhead the strategic application of technology, digital platforms, and AI-enabled tools to improve efficiency through workflow automation, reduction of manual tasks, and enhanced accuracy in forecasting, documentation, reporting, and quality processes.

• Support the adoption of emerging technologies, including advanced analytics, data visualization tools, and digital construction management platforms, to strengthen readiness, quality assurance, and project controls.

• Collaborate with internal teams to ensure technology solutions comply with DLB standards for data security, privacy, and operational integrity.

• Foster a culture that embraces innovation, continuous improvement, and the strategic use of technology to enhance performance and scalability.

• Perform other related duties as assigned.

⛳️ Requirements

• B.A. / B.S. degree in engineering, construction, or a related discipline OR two years of additional experience in a related field in lieu of a degree.

• A minimum of thirteen years of experience in a relevant field.

• At least five years of experience managing mid to large-scale construction, engineering, or manufacturing projects.

• Familiarity with industry trends, project management, and construction procedures and best practices.

• Understanding of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, leadership techniques, production methods, and the coordination of people and resources.

• Knowledgeable about materials, methods, and tools used in the construction of mission-critical commercial buildings or other structures.

• Proficient in using the MS Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, Teams), along with exceptional organizational skills for file management.

• Experienced in utilizing construction management software such as Procore.

• Capable of completing assignments with accuracy and attention to detail.

• Skilled in effectively planning and delegating the work of others.

• Ability to communicate effectively in both oral and written forms (technical and non-technical information).

🏝️ Benefits

• Choice of comprehensive medical plans (including two PPO-style plans and a HDHP with HSA option).

• Flexible spending accounts (FSA).

• Dental and vision plans.

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits extended to spouse/domestic partner and dependent children up to age 26.

• 401k with company match and self-directed brokerage account option.

• Paid time off including additional leave during the last week of the year.

• Company-paid life insurance coverage for employees and their eligible dependents.

• Short and long-term disability, along with AD&D coverage.

• Opportunities for professional development, tuition reimbursement, and professional licensing assistance.

• Paid parental leave after one year of employment.