[Hiring] Design Program Manager @DLB Associates

Role Description

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.

• 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.
• Technology, Digital Tools & AI-Enabled Efficiency
  • 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.

Qualifications

• 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 of 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 analyze complex information and develop plans to address identified issues.

Requirements

• B.A. / B.S. degree in engineering, construction or related discipline OR two years of additional experience in related field in lieu of degree.
• Minimum of thirteen years of experience in related field.
• Minimum of five years of experience managing mid to large scale construction, engineering, or manufacturing projects.

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.