Design Manager

Planate Management Group (PMG) is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) with headquarters in Alexandria, Virginia, and Orlando, Florida. Our technical support centers extend across Southeast Asia and East Africa, enabling us to provide comprehensive program management and facilities engineering services worldwide. As a trusted small business partner, Planate specializes in planning, design, infrastructure management, technical consulting, engineering, and construction management services. We proudly support the missions of the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) and its branches—Army, Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps—along with various U.S. federal agencies, delivering exceptional service across the globe.

We are looking for a Design Manager to join our team in Palo Alto, California, who will play a critical role in supporting the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs' nationwide seismic mitigation projects. This position involves coordinating the design phases of complex and large-scale construction projects, ensuring quality deliverables, and assisting Project Managers in achieving project goals on time and within budget. The role requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including executives, contractors, and state and local representatives, while ensuring compliance with VA standards and guidelines.

Responsibilities:

• Oversee assigned design projects, ensuring alignment with VA planning and design goals.
• Assist Project Managers in developing and maintaining the Project Management Plan (PMP) specific to the design phase.
• Work with Project Development Teams (PDT) to define project scope, optimize efficiency, and ensure lifecycle cost-effectiveness.
• Coordinate with Architects/Engineers (AEs) and consultants to meet project cost and time parameters.
• Lead design reviews, address variances, and propose corrective measures to maintain project integrity.
• Recommend value engineering alternatives and participate in constructability reviews.
• Provide input on design and construction standards to meet sustainability and functionality goals.
• Review contracts, scopes of work, specifications, and codes to ensure project milestones and compliance.
• Support the drafting of procurement documents (without signing authority).

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture or Engineering.
• Minimum of 4 years managing building design projects, ensuring timely completion within budget.
• Experience coordinating with Project Development Teams and optimizing project scope.
• Preferred: Experience with medical facility planning and seismic mitigation projects.
• Strong communication skills, both oral and written.
• Proficiency in analyzing technical and cost data.
• Familiarity with acquisition policies and regulations.
• Ability to guide and support cross-functional teams effectively.

Benefits:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• 401(k) Plan – Eligible upon hire
• Health Savings Account (HSA) Plan
• Life and AD&D Insurance Coverage
• Short-Term Disability Insurance
• Paid Holidays and Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Wellness Programs
• Training and Development Opportunities
• License and Certification Support
• Recognition and Rewards Programs
• Travel Insurance