Design Manager - Aviation - Senior

Our Aviation team in San Francisco, CA and Seattle, WA is seeking an experienced Design Manager to collaborate with a talented studio of architects and designers in delivering innovative, high-performance design solutions that meet the evolving needs of our clients.

As a Gensler Design Manager, you will serve as both a trusted client advisor and project leader, guiding multidisciplinary teams through the successful delivery of complex aviation projects from concept through construction. You will leverage your industry expertise, technical knowledge, and leadership skills to drive project success while fostering strong client relationships and ensuring design excellence.

The ideal candidate is a collaborative leader who thrives in a dynamic environment, is passionate about mentoring and developing team members, and is committed to delivering exceptional client service. Your dedication to innovation, teamwork, and professional growth makes Gensler the ideal place to build and advance your career.

Opportunities to support aviation projects locally in both San Francisco and Seattle, as well as support aviation opportunities nationally and internationally. Willingness to travel and work across time zones to support our “one firm firm” culture is a plus.

• Manage all phases of design throughout project scope for large complex architectural projects, including project set-up and entitlements, design and construction administration
• Coordinate with Studio Directors, Design Directors, Technical Directors, project team members, clients and other project stakeholders to execute realization of project design goals
• Present design and technical solutions in collaboration with the larger design team
• Lead communication between project team, clients, vendors, contractors, consultants, and building and permitting officials
• Create and communicate clear and attainable project objectives and project requirements
• Assist in the allocation of staff to specific tasks within the overall project scope
• Manage project scheduling, budgets, and Start Smart set up with clients, sub-contractors, vendors and consultants
• Prepare project work-plans and manage a range of team sizes, comprised of architects, interior designers, job captains and consultants
• Serve as the main point of contact for clients; lead client and stakeholder meetings
• Develop and maintain positive working relationships with the General Contractor / Builder community
• Actively manage, track and be accountable for financial performance of projects
• Prepare proposals, negotiate contracts and fees, coordinate bidding process, partner with Project Accountant to support invoicing
• Ensure projects conform to contract requirements
• Manage client expectations, team communication and oversight of consultant coordination
• Establish and maintain ongoing, productive client relationships
• Actively contribute to office activities, initiatives and learning programs

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture is preferred
• 15+ years of project experience in an architectural or engineering practice on large complex projects
• Aviation project experience is required
• Excellent project delivery and design management skills
• Experience with Design-build and Progressive Design Build delivery methods are is a plus
• Able to accurately assess project status, anticipate problems and proactively make a plan to manage the unexpected in a controlled manner
• Communicate project information in a clear, complete and explicit manner up and down the organization with clients, studio/office leaders, team members and other project stakeholders
• Confident, assertive communicator who has the courage to challenge others, and initiate and drive ideas and solutions forward
• Able to manage and…