Senior Design Manager

Description

• Lead design activities for the School Upgrade Program and critical repair projects, coordinating with the Division of State Architects.
• Manage the district's design process to ensure compliance with functional, budgetary, environmental, and legal requirements.
• Oversee multiple projects from conception through final review and handoff, collaborating with architects, consultants, and district personnel.
• Ensure building designs meet LAUSD standards and guidelines, addressing both educational and construction criteria.
• Select architectural firms based on qualifications and ability to meet performance standards.
• Provide architects with clear direction on goals, standards, site constraints, schedule, and budget.
• Implement an efficient design review process to maximize value, sustainability, and alignment with project objectives.
• Make timely decisions and maintain documentation that satisfies legal requirements.
• Review design changes to keep projects within approved budget limits.
• Recommend assignments of architectural firms from a pre‑qualified list.
• Participate in community outreach to promote understanding and acceptance of district building projects.
• Coordinate with professional staff supporting the design function across the district.
• Develop continuing‑education seminars and workshops on collaborating with architects and contractors.
• Align project activities with district departments such as Environmental Health, Maintenance, and Asbestos Technical Unit.

Requirements

Applicants must submit an updated resume, certifications or licenses, 3‑4 professional references, and a project list detailing values, dates, and employers. The hiring process will verify the required credentials and experience.

• Minimum 15 years of professional experience managing facilities design and capital project coordination, including design, contract administration, cost estimating, and scheduling.
• At least 5 years of experience with design, planning, and construction of K‑12 educational facilities.
• Bachelor’s degree in architecture or engineering; master’s degree preferred.
• Valid California architect registration or Professional Engineer license.

Benefits

The Senior Design Manager position offers a salary range of $167,300 to $177,200, is based onsite in Los Angeles, CA, and is a full‑time role. This role includes comprehensive W‑2 employment with full benefits and no per‑diem or relocation packages.

Employee benefits include 100% paid health, vision, and dental insurance, a 401(k) plan, paid holidays, sick leave, vacation time, and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

Training + Development

Interview process

Visa Sponsorship

Security clearance