career

Design manager

A design manager collaborates with architects, engineers, and other design experts to shape projects. They lead these professionals in creating functional designs that meet client needs, overseeing the entire process from concept to execution. Their role involves effectively managing relationships with clients, company stakeholders, and on-site teams, guiding the design team, managing risks, and producing innovative solutions to ensure successful project outcomes.

What does this job involve?

Gathering

Client requirements and translating these into the design while managing feedback and changes

Managing

Relationships with clients, company stakeholders and on-site teams

Assembling

And leading a team of architects, engineers, consultants, and other design professionals

Reviewing

Design documents for accuracy, feasibility, and compliance

Overseeing

The development of design

Managing

quality and budget

Innovating

Design solutions for enhanced functionality, sustainability and cost-efficiency

How do I get into this career?

You will need to earn a relevant bachelor’s degree in fields like architecture or engineering and then gain practical experience. Some also choose to pursue qualifications such as a diploma before and/or a master’s degree afterward in fields like construction management and project management, though this is not mandatory.

Salary expectations

Low $72,300
Median $142,400
High $200,700

Recommended training

DIPLOMA OF PROJECT MANAGEMENT

BACHELOR OF ARCHITECTURE

MASTER OF CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT