Design Manager

SUMMARY

We are seeking a highly organized and solution-driven Design Manager to lead the creative development, technical drafting, and fabrication of fast-paced, creative projects. This role reports functionally to the Design Department Head and works under the direction of Project Managers and Production Managers across the project lifecycle.

Acting as the primary design conduit between Project Managers and the production team, the Design Manager translates complex project requirements into concise, user-friendly technical drawings and production-ready files. A strong foundation in 2D/3D design, mechatronics, fabrication, and team leadership is essential to effectively drive production across departments and vendors. This role plays a vital part in ensuring seamless project execution through close collaboration and the continuous refinement of efficient design and production workflows.

The ideal candidate works well under pressure, brings a positive, goal-oriented mindset, and excels at critical thinking and creative problem-solving, with the intent of delivering exceptional results.

Salary Range: $90,000 – $105,000 (Dependent on experience)

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead the development and review of renderings, creative presentations, technical drawings, production and installation documentation, ensuring all deliverables meet client standards.
• Report to Project and Production Managers while working closely with clients and project teams to deliver exceptional, cost-effective designs and secure timely approvals.
• Collaborate with third-party professionals – including contractors, engineers, regulatory agencies, tradespeople, AV specialists, riggers, and logistics providers.
• Create accurate, production-ready files for departments and external vendors across a range of fabrication methods, including commercial 2D/3D printing, laser cutting, metalwork, casting, CNC machining, and related processes.
• Produce technical drawings and references for departments across the project lifecycle.
• Manage and prioritize design deliverables across multiple active projects in coordination with Project Managers, Production Managers, and the Design Department Head.
• Support the project team through research, site surveying, estimating, prototyping, purchasing, fabrication, installation, and quality-control across facilities.
• Anticipate potential project challenges and proactively offer cost-effective, efficient solutions to mitigate risks and pitfalls.
• Establish and manage design standards, templates, and scalable labeling systems to ensure consistency and clarity throughout production.
• Organize and maintain project files and documentation with version control for easy cross-departmental access across one-off and recurring projects.
• Attend client, kick-off, departmental, and post-project review meetings.
• Collaborate with leadership to improve production workflows and inform future planning.
• Support the Design Director in mentoring Technical Designers to promote alignment, collaboration, skill development, and adherence to company standards.

Requirements

REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor's degree in industrial design, architecture, or related creative field preferred.
• 5+ years of technical design experience in fast-paced creative production workshops.
• Strong knowledge of materials, hardware, and production methods.
• Expert-level proficiency in Rhino, Grasshopper, or SolidWorks (Fusion360 and V-ray are a plus).
• Strong proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite.
• Working knowledge of MS Office suite and Windows-based workflows, especially Excel.
• Experience with engineering concepts, CNC programming, and coding (Python or SQL).
• Ability to read, interpret, and work from shop and architectural drawings.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Highly organized and detail-oriented, with strong time management and multitasking abilities.
• Maintains a calm, solution-driven attitude in fast-paced, high-pressure environments.
• Collaborative team player with the ability to work cross-functionally across departments.
• Must be flexible and adaptable, with a willingness to work occasional extended hours, including overnight, and weekends, when necessary.
• Must be professional, punctual, and dependable, with a strong sense of accountability.
• Must be eligible to work in the U.S.

Benefits

• Salary Range: $90,000 - $105,000 (Dependent on experience)
• Health care plan
• · (401K) with matching company contribution
• · Ten days PTO per year
• · Five sick days per year
• · Paid holidays
• · Parental Leave
• · TransitChek plan