Design Program Manager

About the role

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.

Responsibilities

• Manage all elements of routine and complex projects
• 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
• Prepare, forecast and monitor project budgets, profitability, margins, bill rates and utilization and maintain overall accountability for the profitability of the project
• 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
• Lead preparation of proposals, presentations and the overall marketing efforts of the firm
• Maintain client relationship to ensure an ongoing positive relationship and work with clients to identify and develop new projects
• Lead the promotion of the firm, service and expertise to existing or potential clients
• Communicate with the client when additional fees / change orders are required
• Create / complete program reports
• Development and Continuous Improvement
• 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
• 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

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

Physical Demands

• Frequently required to remain in a stationary position
• Frequently moving through office, facility and other environments
• On occasion the employee may move equipment weighing up to 25 pounds

Travel Requirements

• Approximately 10%, this may include travel to any or all 50 US states

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
• CO, CA, IL, NY, WA, and Washington DC residents only: In accordance with CO, CA, IL, NY, WA, and Washington DC law, the range provided is DLB's reasonable estimate of the base compensation for this role. The actual amount may differ based on non-discriminatory factors such as experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, and location.

Pay Range

148,838 - 193,370.80 USD per year(Remote (United States))