Design Program Manager

DLB Associates

2d•Remote

About The Position

The Program Manager is a strategic position accountable for leading all aspects of a collection of projects (i.e. Program). This person will work as part of the project team and interact closely with the owner, designers, contractors, subcontractors and other trades on mission critical projects and other department initiatives as required. On a per project basis, the role may include managing the design and construction administration phases of projects either directly, or through direction provided to Project Managers. These duties may include performing site visits, leading, and representing DLB in client meetings, coordinating with internal and external members, and general project overhead tasks. The Program Manager will be self-directed on day-to-day work and independently performs most responsibilities. Will lead project teams of complex scope and broader programs. Will coordinate activities of other personnel. Assists in the development of policies and procedures. The Program Manager will communicate and operate in line with organizational and client goals and values, as well as departmental objectives.

Requirements

Knowledge of industry trends, project management and construction procedures and best practices
Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, leadership technique, production methods and coordination of people and resources
Knowledge of materials, methods and the tools involved in the construction mission critical, commercial buildings or other structures
Skilled at using MS Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, Teams), along with exceptional organizational skills for file management
Skilled at using construction management software such as Procore
Skilled in completing assignments accurately and with attention to detail
Skilled at managing personnel and material resources
Organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously
Ability to leverage AI and emerging technologies to streamline workflows, optimize operational processes, and contribute to company-wide innovation.
Ability to effectively plan and delegate the work of others
Ability to follow company and site safety requirements
Ability to analyze and prepare documents, reports and correspondence
Ability to communicate effectively in both oral and written form (technical and non-technical information)
Ability to communicate effectively directly with clients and at times serve as primary point of client contact
Ability to work under pressure and meet close deadlines
Ability to work independently and collaboratively with onsite and remote team members
Ability to effectively plan and delegate the work of others
Ability to analyze complex information and develop plans to address identified issues

Responsibilities

Manage all Elements of Routine and Complex Projects (40%)
Drive project design from inception (site acquisition) through design and construction with a high-level focus on Client Standards and overall application across multiple projects.
Develop owner project requirements (OPR) and initial space planning efforts / schematic design
Schedule and sometimes represent DLB at site visits including existing condition surveys and punchlists
Coordinate between internal design trades and external team members
Manage directly or oversee DLB Project Managers to manage the construction administration phase of projects including RFI responses, submittal reviews, and change order reviews
Coordinate and support resource forecasting across the design program
Develop, manage and monitor project schedules
Participate in, schedule, and / or lead project meetings with internal and external teams
Coordinate / perform QA / QC plans and specifications to ensure completion in accordance with the project scope and appropriate guidelines and manuals
Oversee / coordinate internal team member activities
Oversee cost and time schedules for proposed work with the aid of team leaders. Assign and schedule duties to project team members.
Monitor and Control Project Financials (15%)
Prepare, forecast and monitor project budgets, profitability, margins, bill rates and utilization and maintain overall accountability for the profitability of the project
Communicate with the client when additional fees / change orders are required
Identify potential project risks and develop / implement strategies to minimize impact and control deviations from estimated costs and project deadlines
Accountable for development of cost schedules / schedules of value for client progress billing
Manage Stakeholder Relations (25%)
Lead preparation of proposals, presentations and the overall marketing efforts of the firm
Lead the promotion of the firm, service and expertise to existing or potential clients
Maintain client relationship to ensure an ongoing positive relationship and work with clients to identify and develop new projects
Primary contact for clients and build effective, long-term client relationships
Ensure client satisfaction through active communication
Create / complete program reports
Development and Continuous Improvement (20%)
Mentor associates and assist with training and development to create a learning and growing environment
May assist or lead in the strategic planning for the group
May assist with hiring process
May assist or lead other department initiatives including development and standardization of tools relating to client management, business development, project / program profitability, workload / resource planning, etc.
May have direct reports / people manager responsibilities
Completion of Assigned Tasks and Deliverables on Time and on Budget
Identify opportunities and lead the strategic use of technology, digital platforms, and AI-enabled tools to enhance efficiency through workflow automation, reduced manual effort, and improved accuracy in forecasting, documentation, reporting, and quality processes.
Support 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 align with DLB standards for data security, privacy, and operational integrity.
Promote a culture that embraces innovation, continuous improvement, and the strategic use of technology to optimize performance and scalability.
Performs Other Related Duties as Assigned

Benefits

Choice of comprehensive medical plans (including two PPO-style plans and a HDHP w/ HSA option)
Flex 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
PTO including additional paid time off during the last week of the year
Company paid life insurance coverage for employees and their eligible dependents
Short and long-term disability, AD&D coverage
Professional development opportunities, tuition reimbursement and professional licensing assistance
Paid parental leave after one year of employment