Project Design Manager

Position Summary

The Project Design Manager will oversee the planning, design, and pre-construction phases of school facilities projects funded through the District’s Bond Program. This role is responsible for managing architects, engineers, and consultants to ensure designs align with educational specifications, District standards, California Building Codes, and Division of the State Architect (DSA) requirements. The Project Design Manager will collaborate closely with internal stakeholders, including administrators, staff, and community representatives, to deliver safe, functional, and cost-effective learning environments that support the District’s mission.

Key Responsibilities

Lead and manage the design process for new construction, modernization, and renovation projects within the Bond Program.

Coordinate with architects, engineers, consultants, and contractors to ensure compliance with District standards, educational specifications, DSA, and other regulatory requirements.

Review and provide input on conceptual designs, schematic designs, design development, and construction documents to ensure quality, constructability, and alignment with project budgets and schedules.

Facilitate stakeholder engagement meetings with District staff, school site representatives, and community members to incorporate feedback into project design.

Collaborate with the Program / Project Controls team to monitor design budgets, schedules, and scope; recommend value engineering strategies to maintain fiscal responsibility.

Manage the submission, review, and approval process with DSA and other authorities having jurisdiction.

Ensure design documents integrate sustainable building practices and support long-term facility maintenance goals.

Prepare reports, presentations, and updates for District leadership, the Citizens’ Bond Oversight Committee, and the Board of Education.

Support procurement activities, including the selection of architects, engineers, and consultants.

Provide leadership, technical guidance, and problem-solving throughout the design and pre-construction phases.

Qualifications

Education & Experience :

Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, or related field required.

Licensed Architect or Professional Engineer in California preferred.

Minimum of 7 years of experience in design and construction management, with at least 3 years managing school or public facility projects.

Experience with K-12 school construction and DSA processes strongly preferred.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities :

Strong knowledge of California Building Codes, DSA requirements, and public school construction standards.

Proven ability to manage multiple projects, priorities, and stakeholders effectively.

Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to convey technical information to diverse audiences.

Strong skills in project planning, budget management, and schedule control.

Ability to lead collaborative design processes and achieve consensus among diverse stakeholders.

Proficiency with project management software, MS Office, and design-related tools.

Salary dependent on education and experience.

Salary range : $140K-$165K

Why Choose Element Consulting?

Element Consulting is a construction management company dedicated to providing clients with responsible and innovative solutions to their project needs, from inception to completion. Based out of El Segundo, CA, the firm offers program, project, and construction management services. We invite you to join us in 'Bringing the Right Elements Together for Our Clients' Success.'

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