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Gensler · 1 month ago

Design Manager - Aviation - Senior

Seattle, WA

Full-time

Onsite

Senior Level, Lead/Staff

$90K/yr - $135K/yr

10+ years exp

Gensler is a leading design firm specializing in high-performance terminal environments within the Aviation sector. They are seeking a Design Manager to lead complex airport projects, ensuring effective project delivery while mentoring junior staff and maintaining design excellence.

ArchitectureCollaborative ConsumptionConsultingProduct DesignReal EstateSports

H1B Sponsor Likely

Responsibilities

Lead day-to-day project delivery across all phases: planning, programming, concept, schematic, design development, documentation, procurement, and construction administration

Serve as the primary client liaison for airport sponsors, airlines, authorities having jurisdiction, and program/construction managers, ensuring clear communication and timely decisions

Build and manage integrated work plans, schedules, and budgets; track progress, forecast risk, and drive issue resolution

Coordinate architecture, interiors, wayfinding, structural, MEP, fire protection, IT/low-voltage, baggage systems, security, sustainability, and specialty consultants

Oversee QA/QC, code analysis, and technical reviews, including IBC, ADA, NFPA, and applicable FAA Advisory Circulars and TSA/CBP requirements

Lead documentation and delivery in Revit, manage model coordination and clash detection, and guide digital standards

Direct construction administration, including RFIs, submittals, pay apps, change management, field observations, punch, and closeout

Plan and manage airside/landside logistics, phasing in occupied facilities, and night or constrained work windows

Develop fees, scopes, proposals, contracts, and schedules; contribute to pursuits, interviews, and thought leadership within the Aviation practice

Mentor junior staff, foster a collaborative culture, and uphold Gensler’s design and technical standards

Qualification

Architectural licenseRevit proficiencyAviation standards knowledgeProject management experienceSustainability commitmentClient leadership skillsBuilding codes knowledgeTeam mentoringCommunication skillsCollaboration

Required

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture from an accredited program

10+ years of professional experience, including 4+ years leading large, complex projects; recent terminal or concourse experience required

Architectural license (WA preferred). NCARB preferred

Proven track record managing scope, schedule, budget, and risk on multi-stakeholder programs

Strong client leadership skills with clear, concise communication in meetings, workshops, and executive briefings

Proficiency in Revit and coordination workflows; familiarity with Navisworks/Clash, Bluebeam, and MS Project (or Primavera)

Knowledge of aviation standards and authorities, including FAA ACs, TSA/CBP interfaces, baggage/SSCP planning, and terminal systems integration

Thorough understanding of building codes, life safety, accessibility, and airport technical requirements

Experience with alternative delivery (CMAR, GC/CM, Design-Build) and change-order negotiation

Commitment to sustainability; familiarity with LEED, WELL, and Envision frameworks

Preferred

12–15 years total experience with multiple built aviation projects

Experience in the Pacific Northwest market and relationships with regional airport stakeholders

Architectural license in multiple state: CA, OR, ID preferred

PMP or comparable project management certification

Experience with wayfinding/EGD integration and passenger experience design

Data-driven performance metrics and post-occupancy evaluation experience

Benefits

Medical

Dental

Vision

Disability

Wellness programs

Flex spending

Paid holidays

Paid time off

401k

Profit sharing

Employee stock ownership

Twice annual bonus opportunities

Reimbursement for certain professional licenses and associated renewals and exam fees

Tuition for certain eligible programs or classes

Company

Gensler

Glassdoor3.9

Gensler is a collaborative design firm that has capabilities in design and architecture across 31 practices.

Founded in 1965

San Francisco, California, USA

5001-10000 employees

http://www.gensler.com

H1B Sponsorship

Gensler has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships. Please note that this does not guarantee sponsorship for this specific role. Below presents additional info for your reference. (Data Powered by US Department of Labor)

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2025 (67)

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2023 (83)

2022 (103)

2021 (53)

2020 (73)