Design Manager - K-12

GAFCON PM CM LLC • San Diego, CA

4d • $115,000 - $150,000 • Onsite

About The Position

The Design Manager supports the Owner’s interests across capital construction projects throughout planning, design, and pre-construction phases, with support through construction and closeout. This role is responsible for managing design consultants, coordinating project stakeholders, and ensuring design deliverables align with scope, schedule, budget, and program objectives. The Design Manager serves as a primary point of contact for assigned projects and collaborates closely with senior leadership to drive successful project outcomes.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, or related field preferred; equivalent experience may be substituted.
• 5–10 years of experience in design and/or construction.
• Experience supporting planning, design, and pre-construction phases, preferably in an Owner’s Representative or consulting environment.
• Familiarity with coordinating architects, engineers, and consultants through multiple design phases.
• Working knowledge of construction drawings, specifications, project development, design management, constructability reviews, cost estimating, scheduling, and project controls.
• Strong organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and collaborate with cross-functional teams.
• Proficiency in MS Office and project management systems.

Nice To Haves

• Professional certifications (e.g., PMP, CCM, PE, RA, DBIA) are a plus.

Responsibilities

• Applies Gafcon Project Management Policies and Procedures to assigned projects.
• Develops and manages design and pre-construction work plans, including scope, milestones, budgets, schedules, and deliverables.
• Assists in preparing RFQs, RFPs, and scopes of work for architects, engineers, and consultants; supports proposal evaluations and selection processes.
• Manages architects, engineers, and design consultants to ensure timely, coordinated, and compliant design deliverables.
• Facilitates design reviews, constructability reviews, and coordination meetings to support quality and reduce potential changes.
• Supports development and implementation of Owner Project Requirements (OPR), client standards, and technical criteria.
• Tracks project scope, cost, schedule, and risks; identifies issues and escalates as needed with recommended solutions.
• Coordinates with regulatory agencies and stakeholders to support approvals and permitting processes.
• Supports procurement strategies and project delivery methods (e.g., Design-Build, CM@Risk).
• Assists in administering professional services contracts, including change management and invoice review.
• Prepares project documentation, reports, and updates for internal teams and client stakeholders.
• Supports transition from design to construction, including bid support and design clarifications.
• Ensures compliance with applicable codes, standards, and safety requirements.
• Assists in resolving design-related challenges in coordination with senior team members.
• Supports business development efforts and proposal preparation.
• Participates in internal knowledge-sharing initiatives such as GafCollege.
• Maintains professional development through continuing education and certifications.
• Identifies opportunities for process improvements and efficiencies.
• Other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Competitive salary with generous company contributions toward comprehensive family health, dental, and vision insurance
• Employee Stock Purchase Program
• 401(k) plan with Employer Match
• Generous Paid Vacation, Sick and Holidays
• Ongoing Professional Development and Career Advancement Support
• People-first, inclusive culture with team celebrations, volunteer opportunities, and meaningful employee recognition

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager