The Design Manager (DM) is primarily responsible for managing the design activities for assigned development projects to ensure optimum functionality while maintaining an aesthetically pleasing design, which is residential in character. Responsibilities include assisting with design programming, scheduling of the design process, maintaining design within the established budget, and ensuring that the design supports operational goals and objectives.

Experience is Everything;

At LCS, experience is everything. We provide you the opportunity to use your talents in a progressive, growing organization that makes a positive difference in the lives of the seniors we serve. If you are seeking an organization that gives back, you’ll love working here. Our principles and hospitality promises define our company culture. LCS employees can be found participating in volunteer activities, getting involved in our committees or collaborating with team members in our innovative work space. You’ll find several opportunities to grow as a professional, serve the community, and enhance the lives of the seniors.

The Role:

Supports the DoD in the early stages of the design process to ensure compliance with the established design program.
Supports the DoD in selection of the architectural and other design consultants.
Supports the DoD in negotiation, preparation, and execution of the architectural and consultant agreements.
Coordinates the work of LCS staff with external design consultants.
Directs the design process and coordinates all design disciplines to ensure scheduling, cost, quality, aesthetics, and design functionality meet established design standards and PDM expectations.
Administers all design agreements, including basic and additional services.
Approves consultant payment applications and forwards to the PDM for final approval.
Acquires knowledge of specified materials, finishes, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems to allow selection of cost-effective systems that meet the project budget. Work with the contractors to understand how to most efficiently utilize available materials and systems in the design process.
Acquires knowledge of local and state codes and how they affect the project’s design and permitting.
Travel and attendance at various interstate locations to ensure above mentioned activities are completed.

Qualifications:

BA/BS in Architecture or construction management
Registered Architect or currently in the testing process
Minimum 5-8 years postgraduate experience on multi-family, healthcare or hospitality projects is highly regarded.
Minimum 3 years project management experience is highly regarded.
Knowledge of life care/CCRC and assisted living products.
Knowledge of Outlook, Excel, Word, Microsoft Project, PowerPoint, Adobe Acrobat, and computer-aided design software including building information modeling.
Knowledge of the building design process and the ability to schedule and coordinate design activities.
Must have management skills capable of dealing effectively with architectural firms, interior design firms, and contractors. Show sensitivity to and concern for the interest and needs of others, working to reduce conflict and establish smooth working relationships.
Communication skills are essential: comfortable with the written and spoken word, use a variety of communication methods, able to listen and empathize, good public speaking skills.
Ability to manage time, prioritize activities, delegate and follow up, allowing time to plan, file papers, and arrange electronic information.
Must be detail oriented. Identify problems, analyze causes; take or recommend action after evaluating alternative solutions. Follow up to ensure problem areas are actually corrected.

Why LCS?

Industry leader. The Nation’s third-largest senior living operator, ranked number one in customer satisfaction among senior living communities.

Inclusive and collaborative culture. We’re dedicated to diversity, equity, and inclusion and have an engaged Diversity and Inclusion Council focused on creating awareness and educating employees on inclusivity. In addition, LCS creates a collaborative culture that provides an exceptional experience for every employee.

Top Workplace USA: LCS has earned the Top Workplaces USA award for several consecutive years and is recognized for our strong company culture and engaged workforce. In addition, LCS earned ten culture excellence awards in areas such as DE&I practices, top managers, professional development and clued-in leaders, to name a few.

Top Workplace Iowa: LCS employees truly believe we are an employer choice. This recognition, for 4 years running, is in large part due to the culture of excellence that our employees help deliver every single day.

Competitive pay, great benefits and vacation time. We are an equal opportunity employer with benefits including medical, dental, life insurance, disability, 401(k) with company match and paid parental leave.

Charity and community involvement. We are recognized as a national team for the Alzheimer’s Association and consistently a top contributor to United Way. We also support our employee’s individual community contributions and provide opportunities to get involved at our corporate locations and in our communities.

Outstanding advancement opportunities. LCS is growing and we think you should too. Our company growth allows for internal growth opportunities across all of our business lines.

Ongoing career development. Onsite education opportunities, education assistance, and continuing education credits allow LCS employees to keep their knowledge of current industry changes relevant.

LCS creates living experiences that enhance the lives of seniors. You’ll see this commitment in our people. They’re talented, dedicated professionals who truly care about residents, with each conducting his or her work with integrity, honesty and transparency according to the principles of LCS. We strive to help every community succeed—strengthening available resources, establishing proven practices that lead to long-term growth and creating lasting value for those living in, working for and affiliated with the community. Check us out on our website: www.lcsnet.com

Travel Frequency: 26-50%

Estimated Salary Range: $96,000 - $120,000

The actual title & salary offer will carefully consider a wide range of factors, including your skills, qualifications, experience and other relevant factors.

A POST-OFFER BACKGROUND CHECK, INCLUDING REFERENCES, IS REQUIRED

LCS IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER