Senior Design Program Director

IPS-Integrated Project Services; Emeryville (CA); On-site; USD 235,000 - 360,000; Full time

Job summary

IPS-Integrated Project Services in Emeryville, California, is seeking a Design Project Director to lead complex life sciences facilities projects. You will provide senior leadership on programs, manage profit, safety, and client relationships, and mentor a technical team.

The role requires directing programs and projects, coordinating budgets and schedules, and ensuring quality and regulatory compliance across design disciplines. This position supports business development and client engagement.

Qualifications

• 15+ years of experience in design project leadership.
• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or equivalent.
• Licensed and stamped drawings where applicable.
• Strong communication, leadership, and team-building skills.

Responsibilities

• Directs programs and multiple projects; leads teams to meet corporate, safety, and project goals.
• Manages resources, scheduling, budgeting, and execution plans to ensure alignment with project objectives.
• Reviews contracts and monitors scope, cost, and schedule performance; oversees change management and risk mitigation.
• Guides the development of key deliverables, design content, and ensures quality, compliance, and constructability.
• Mentors project managers and engineers to build strong leadership and technical capabilities.
• Facilitates positive client relationships and oversees communication between stakeholders.
• Coordinates subcontractor and vendor activities, including contract negotiations and invoice evaluations.
• Partners with finance to manage budgets, forecasts, and receivables; ensures accurate cost reporting.
• Upholds legal, regulatory, and quality standards across all design activities and disciplines.
• Supports business development through proposals, presentations, and marketing efforts.
• Maintains professional competency and industry relationships; assists in talent evaluation and development.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Team building

Project management

Strategic planning

Risk management

Problem solving

Rapport building

Education

Bachelor’s degree in engineering

Professional registration

Job description

IPS-Integrated Project Services in Emeryville, California, is seeking a Design Project Director to lead complex life sciences facilities projects. You will provide senior leadership on programs, manage profit, safety, and client relationships, and mentor a technical team.

The role requires directing programs and projects, coordinating budgets and schedules, and ensuring quality and regulatory compliance across design disciplines. This position supports business development and client engagement.