Project Manager - Planning

DAHLIN Architecture | Planning | Interiors • Pleasanton, CA

40d • $90,000 - $120,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

At DAHLIN, we believe great design starts with thoughtful planning. We are seeking a Project Manager to join our Planning & Entitlement Team to lead and deliver a wide range of projects from early planning and front-end design through schematic design and entitlement. This role serves as the primary liaison between clients, jurisdictions, and subconsultants, ensuring clear communication, strong collaboration, and successful project outcomes. This hybrid role requires at least three days per week onsite in our Pleasanton, CA office.

Requirements

• Strong understanding of the full planning, design, and production process.
• Ability to evaluate and respond to the technical impacts of design decisions.
• Exceptional writing skills for planning and design documentation.
• Strong knowledge of planning entitlement processes and requirements.
• Proven project management experience, including scheduling, scopes, fees, coordination, and client communication.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• High design competency with working knowledge of building and zoning codes.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, Enscape, Bluebeam, Adobe Creative Suite, and Microsoft Office.
• A proactive, adaptable approach and comfort working in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience in planning, design management, and project management REQUIRED.
• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Urban Design, Planning, or Architecture.
• 5+ years of experience in urban design and master planning.
• Must be legally authorized to work for any employer in the United States without any restrictions. Please note that visa sponsorship is not offered for this position.

Nice To Haves

• AICP or architectural licensure preferred.
• Commitment to ongoing professional development.

Responsibilities

• Lead planning efforts and author policy documents, including specific plans and objective design standards.
• Define, monitor, and manage project scope, schedule, staffing, and work plans.
• Prepare and negotiate proposals, fees, schedules, and contracts for clients and consultants.
• Serve as the main point of contact for clients, ensuring timely communication and effective resolution of issues.
• Build and maintain strong client relationships and stay informed of their goals, audiences, and market trends.
• Schedule, document, and run project-related meetings with clients, internal teams, and consultants.
• Direct the day-to-day activities of cross-functional project teams to ensure quality, budget, and schedule compliance.
• Develop, communicate, and track project work plans, budgets, and deliverables.
• Coordinate with consultants and manage project documentation throughout all phases.
• Identify and resolve project challenges in collaboration with Principals and design staff.
• Support business development efforts with current and prospective clients.
• Contribute to project reporting and staffing discussions to support team performance and financial goals.
• Foster a positive team environment by supporting staff development, training, and mentoring.
• Oversee project set-up, including contracts, processes, and accounting coordination for invoicing.
• Ensure smooth transition of projects to design development and construction documentation teams.
• Conduct post-contract follow-ups to confirm client satisfaction and identify future opportunities.

Benefits

• Excellent benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• We also offer the opportunity to participate in a pre-tax Flexible Spending plan, Employee Stock Ownership Plan, and 401k.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Number of Employees: 101-250 employees