Design Manager

Purpose of the Position:  The Design Manager is responsible for leading the design process and ensuring high-quality, on-time deliverables that align with client expectations, project scope, and budget.  This role involves direct coordination with Project Managers, oversight of internal teams and external partners, and the translation of design intent into a buildable solution.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide leadership and direction in interpreting jurisdictional requirements, contractual obligations, and internal capabilities to deliver consistent, high-quality results.
• Independently develop telecommunications site designs using field data, existing documentation, satellite imagery, and online resources.
• Manage the procurement and oversight of external vendors and consultants as need to support project deliverables.
• Apply a strong understanding of industry-standard construction practices and basic Outside Plant Telecommunications practices and NESC Standards.
• Serve as the primary liaison between engineering, design, and drafting teams to ensure all design requirements are clearly communicated and executed.
• Perform thorough research to ensure designs are fully aligned with client-specific standards, site conditions, and internal operational capabilities.
• Create and manage project tracking tools, such as spreadsheets and dashboards, to monitor progress, control costs, and ensure timely delivery.
• Provide leadership and mentorship to a team of drafting professionals throughout the entire design lifecycle, from initial concept development to quality assurance/quality control and final deliverable submission.
• Collaborate closely with the client, internal engineering and permitting staff to uphold quality standards and ensure technical accuracy.
• Review fiber and utility designs and specifications across multiple projects to ensure compliance with industry standards and consistency in execution.
• Implement and enforce quality assurance procedures to ensure all drawings are thoroughly reviewed, properly approved, and accurately archived in compliance with internal protocols.

Knowledge, Skills, and Competencies:

• Exceptional organizational, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Experience in planning review and familiarity with inspection processes.
• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects under tight deadlines.
• Skilled at working both independently and collaboratively with cross-functional teams.
• Capability to work in a team-based, face-paced environment as well as independently.
• Proven ability to provide technical assistance and mentorship.
• Self-driven with a desire for team success.
• Detail-oriented with the ability to maintain quality control for all outgoing products.
• Willing and able to travel for client engagements and to project sites on successive days.
• Valid driver's license and access to reliable transportation.

Technical Proficiency:

• Expert proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Outlook and Excel; familiarity with Adobe Acrobat/Bluebeam PDF editor and digital image formats.
• Proficient in AutoCAD, GIS Spatial Design platforms (ArcGIS, QGIS, IQGEO, Vetro) and other related design software.
• Experience with project management software such as Sitetracker is highly desirable.
• Demonstrated experience in managing and maintaining databases, including overseeing the accurate uploading and downloading of project documentation and data.

Education and Experience Requirements:

• Education Requirements: Bachelor's degree in architecture, engineering, or a related field; or equivalent years of experience in industry-design or construction.
• Disciplinary Knowledge:  Possess advanced understanding of design principles across Outside Plant (OSP) and Inside Plant (IP) telecommunication standards for aerial, buried, and underground environments.  Additionally, have extensive knowledge of National Electrical Safety Code (NESC) standards.
• Telecom Design Experience:  5 - 10 years of experience in telecommunications design and site development.
• Team Leadership Experience: 1 - 3 years of experience in team leadership or project management

Company Wide Benefits

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance options.
• Dependent Care Programs
• HSA & FSA options
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Company-paid Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Company-paid Life Insurance
• Voluntary Life Insurance
• 401(k) and Roth 401(k) options with match after 1 year of service (fully vested).
• 8 Paid Holidays
• Vacation Time / Personal Time
• Parental Leave