Senior Design Phase Manager - Preconstruction

Mortenson; Denver (CO); On-site; USD 144,300 - 216,500; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical and prescription drug plans

401(k) retirement plan with generous match

Paid time off and holidays

Tuition reimbursement

Gym membership discount program

Job summary

Mortenson in Denver is seeking a Senior Design Phase Manager to lead the design team, ensuring that the owner's vision is accurately translated into effective design solutions. This role requires a Bachelor’s degree in a related field, a minimum of 10 years of experience, and strong risk management and communication skills. The base pay range is between $144,300 and $216,500, with additional incentives and benefits including 401(k) matching, tuition reimbursement, and comprehensive medical plans.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years of related experience.
• Ability to travel up to 100%.
• Active listening skills and openness to diverse input.

Responsibilities

• Lead project team during design phase for customer experience and financial performance.
• Establish and manage project budget and scope expectations.
• Obtain regulatory approvals and permits.
• Align design documents with execution plan.

Skills

Risk management skills

Effective communication

Microsoft Office

Project management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management, or equivalent

Job description

Summary

Senior Design Phase Manager with the ability to interact with a variety of staff at all levels in an ever‑changing environment, remaining flexible, resourceful, proactive, and efficient with a high level of professionalism and confidentiality. Aptitude to anticipate problems, critical issues, and opportunities as they arise; along with the capability to creatively problem‑solve and bring together viable solutions. Excellent written and verbal communication skills are vital, with attention to detail equally important. The Design Phase Manager will ensure the owner’s vision is translated into design solutions and construction parameters through leadership of the design process and team members. May work on two projects simultaneously or one larger project.

Responsibilities

• Lead project team during design phase to ensure customer experience, financial performance, and smooth transition to construction.
• Achieve scope, budget, and schedule alignment; ensure construction readiness.
• Establish and manage project budget, scope expectations, and budget trending logs.
• Create and manage project schedules and key milestones; hold team accountable.
• Obtain regulatory approvals and permits.
• Align design documents with project execution plan.
• Handle bid packages and contract manuals.
• Resolve technical design and specification concerns.
• Develop or review project margin plans; minimize risk and enhance opportunities.
• Act as primary contact with owners, architects, engineers, and trade partners.
• Monitor and measure project success factors.
• Foster an integrated team experience with clear roles and communication.
• Facilitate designer selection and contracting for design‑build projects.
• Mentor and guide design phase team members for career growth.
• Develop and present project proposals.
• Build relationships with diverse backgrounds and organizational levels.
• Lead by example, provide coaching and feedback, and manage performance.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management, Estimating, or equivalent field.
• Minimum of 10 years of related experience.
• Risk management skills.
• Microsoft Office, project, and pertinent web application skills at an intermediate level.
• Active listening skills and effective communication, openness to diverse input and feedback.
• Ability to travel up to 100%.
• Knowledge of Equal Employment Opportunity, inclusive behaviors, and affirmative action plans and their intended use.

Benefits

• Medical and prescription drug plans that include no additional cost vision coverage.
• Dental plan.
• 401(k) retirement plan with a generous Mortenson match.
• Paid time off, holidays, and other paid leaves.
• Employer‑paid life, AD&D, and disability insurance.
• No‑cost mental health tool and concierge with extensive work‑life resources.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Adoption assistance.
• Gym membership discount program.

The base pay range for this role is $144,300 minimum – $216,500 maximum. (Actual range is higher for the following office locations: Denver, CO and Chicago, IL – 5%, Seattle, WA, and Portland, OR – 10%, Washington, D.C. – 12.5%). Base pay is positioned within the range based on several factors including an individual’s knowledge, skills, and experience, with consideration given to internal equity. This position is eligible for Mortenson’s incentive plan.

Visa sponsorship is not offered for this position.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Mortenson is committed to providing equal opportunities of employment (EOE) to all individuals, regardless of race, religion, gender, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, marital status, or any other legally protected category.