Senior Design Manager - Aviation
STV•Chicago, IL
•Onsite
About The Position
STV is seeking an experienced Senior Design Manager to work with its national aviation group. The position is onsite at a client location in Chicago, Illinois, and oversees the planning and design phases of airport construction projects. The manager leads design and preconstruction activities—including budgeting, scheduling, risk assessment, and stakeholder coordination—to support successful delivery of large-scale airport infrastructure projects. The role also supports the transition from preconstruction to construction.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture, or a related field.
- Minimum of 10 years of experience in preconstruction, estimating, or project management within large-scale infrastructure projects; airport experience is preferred.
- Strong knowledge of airport construction regulations, FAA guidelines, and industry best practices.
- Proficiency in construction management software such as Procore, Bluebeam, or Primavera P6, and in cost-estimating tools.
- Excellent leadership, negotiation, and communication skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams and navigate complex project requirements.
- Strong problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
Nice To Haves
- Architectural licensure.
- Master’s degree in a relevant field.
- Professional certifications such as PMP (Project Management Professional) or LEED accreditation.
- Experience working with public sector airport authorities or aviation-related infrastructure.
Responsibilities
- Lead design and preconstruction efforts, including estimating, scheduling, and procurement planning for airport construction projects.
- Develop and manage preconstruction budgets, cost estimates, and value engineering assessments.
- Collaborate with architects, engineers, contractors, and airport authorities to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and industry standards.
- Conduct feasibility studies, risk assessments, and constructability reviews to identify potential challenges and solutions.
- Prepare detailed project schedules, including preconstruction timelines and key milestones.
- Assist in selecting and managing subcontractors and vendors, ensuring alignment with project goals and cost considerations.
- Ensure adherence to environmental, safety, and zoning regulations throughout the preconstruction phase.
- Provide strategic input on design optimization, material selection, and sustainable construction practices.
- Communicate and coordinate with government agencies, airport stakeholders, and project teams to align expectations and requirements.
- Support the transition from preconstruction to construction, ensuring a seamless handoff to project execution teams.
Benefits
- Health insurance, including an option with a Health Savings Account
- Dental insurance
- Vision insurance
- Flexible Spending Accounts for healthcare, dependent care, and transit and parking where applicable
- Disability insurance
- Life insurance and Accidental Death & Dismemberment
- 401(k) Plan
- Retirement counseling
- Employee Assistance Program
- Paid Time Off
- Paid Holidays
- Back-Up Dependent Care
- Parental Leave
- Continuing Education Program
- Professional Licensure and Society Memberships
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
