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Creative Design Manager Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

The Project Architect (Design Manager) is a architect, who will manage LCS Development projects ... Ownership & creative autonomy * Professional development & mentorship * A welcoming, inclusive ...

Provide ongoing administrative support to the marketing and sales teams, including scheduling meetings, managing assets, and maintaining organized marketing and sales files Creative & Design:

... and creative design-build approach? If this describes you, we encourage you to apply today. Some ... Prepare and manage project budgets, profit projections, schedules & bid documents. * Negotiate and ...

... and creative design-build approach? If this describes you, we encourage you to apply today. Some ... Prepare and manage project budgets, profit projections, schedules & bid documents. * Negotiate and ...

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Creative Design Manager information

See Iowa salary details

$39.4K

$107.5K

$189.3K

How much do creative design manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for creative design manager in Iowa is $107,537.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,400.00 and $135,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a creative manager do?

A creative design manager oversees the development and execution of visual concepts and branding strategies, leading creative teams to produce innovative designs. They coordinate projects, set creative direction, and ensure deliverables meet client or company standards, often using tools like Adobe Creative Suite. Strong leadership, communication, and project management skills are essential in this role.

What kind of jobs in media bring in $150,000 a year?

In media, roles such as Creative Design Manager, Art Director, or Senior Graphic Designer can earn $150,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, leadership responsibilities, and proficiency in industry-standard tools like Adobe Creative Suite. High-level positions in advertising agencies, media companies, or large corporations often offer such compensation packages.

What does a creative Design Manager do?

A Creative Design Manager oversees the development and execution of visual concepts for projects, ensuring they align with brand standards and client goals. They lead design teams, coordinate with other departments, and use tools like Adobe Creative Suite to deliver high-quality creative work within deadlines.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Creative Design Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Creative Design Manager, you need strong visual design expertise, leadership experience, and a relevant degree in design or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard design software such as Adobe Creative Suite and project management tools is typically required. Excellent communication, team collaboration, and creative problem-solving are standout soft skills for this role. These skills ensure the delivery of innovative, high-quality design solutions while effectively leading and motivating creative teams.

What is the difference between Creative Design Manager vs Graphic Designer?

AspectCreative Design ManagerGraphic Designer
ResponsibilitiesOversees creative projects, manages design teams, develops concepts, and ensures brand consistency.Creates visual content, designs layouts, and produces graphics based on project briefs.
Required SkillsLeadership, project management, advanced design skills, and strategic thinking.Proficiency in design software, creativity, and technical skills.
Work EnvironmentCollaborative teams, client meetings, and project planning.Design studios, freelance work, or in-house departments.
Common CertificationsDesign degrees, Adobe certifications, leadership training.

The main difference is that a Creative Design Manager leads and oversees creative projects and teams, focusing on strategy and management, while a Graphic Designer primarily executes visual designs and creates graphics. Both roles require strong design skills, but the manager role involves more leadership and project coordination.

What's the highest paying creative job?

The highest paying creative job is often a Creative Director or Art Director in advertising, film, or digital media, with salaries reaching six figures or more for experienced professionals. These roles typically require strong leadership skills, extensive portfolio work, and proficiency with design and project management tools. Senior positions in large companies or agencies tend to offer the highest compensation in the creative field.

How does a Creative Design Manager typically balance creative vision with client or stakeholder requirements?

As a Creative Design Manager, you'll often navigate the challenge of aligning your team's innovative ideas with client or stakeholder expectations. This involves active listening, clear communication, and presenting creative solutions that address both aesthetic goals and practical needs. You'll facilitate brainstorming sessions, provide constructive feedback, and ensure that the design output meets brand guidelines, project timelines, and business objectives. Strong collaboration with marketing, product, and leadership teams is key to achieving successful outcomes while maintaining creative integrity.

What are Creative Design Managers?

Creative Design Managers are professionals responsible for leading and overseeing creative projects within organizations, such as advertising campaigns, branding, and visual content creation. They manage teams of designers, ensuring creative output aligns with company goals and brand identity. Their role involves project management, creative direction, collaboration with other departments, and maintaining high standards of design quality. Creative Design Managers also stay up-to-date with design trends and often mentor junior staff.
What are the most commonly searched types of Creative Design jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Creative Design jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Creative Design Manager jobs in Iowa? For Creative Design Manager jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Creative Design Manager jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Creative Design Manager jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Creative Design Manager jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Creative Design Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Creative Design Manager job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,537 per year, or $51.7 per hour.
Project Architect (Design Manager)

Project Architect (Design Manager)

Heritage at Irene Woods

Des Moines, IA โ€ข On-site

$113K - $141K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

The Project Architect (Design Manager) is a architect, who will manage LCS Development projects. Ensuring functionality, pleasing design, and compliance. Responsibilities include assisting with design programming, scheduling of the design process, maintaining established budget, and ensuring that the design supports our operational goals and objectives. Senior Living experience is not required for this role.ย 

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 workspace. You'll find several opportunities to grow as a professional, serve the community, and enhance the lives of seniors.ย 

The Role:ย 

  • Directs the design process and coordinates all design disciplines to ensure scheduling, cost, quality, aesthetics, and design functionality meet established design standards and Project Development Manager expectations.
  • Administers all design agreements, including basic and additional services.
  • Supports the design process to ensure compliance with the established design program, maintaining knowledge of local and state codes, and how they affect the projects design and permitting.ย 
  • Performs selection of the architectural and other design consultants, including processing billing and payment applications, for approval by Project Development Manager.ย 
  • Negotiates, prepares, and executes the architectural and consultant agreements.
  • 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.

Qualifications:

  • BA/BS in Architecture or construction management
  • Registered Architect preferred but not required. If not licensed or currently in the testing process, LCS offers reimbursement options.ย 
  • Minimum 4-8 years postgraduate experience on multi-family, healthcare or hospitality projects is highly regarded.
  • Minimum 2 years project management experience is highly regarded.
  • Knowledge of senior living products lines including CCRC, and Assisted Living.ย 
  • Must be detail oriented, and have the ability to effectively partner 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.

Culture:ย 

LCS values collaboration, thoughtful problem-solving, and innovation. You will have the opportunity to work alongside cross-functional partners who appreciate strategy, leaders who are invested in your growth, and teammates who care about doing meaningful work.ย 

We prioritize:

  • Sustainable workloadsย 
  • High standards with realistic expectationsย 
  • Open communication & team collaborationย 
  • Ownership & creative autonomy
  • Professional development & mentorshipย 
  • A welcoming, inclusive environment where your voice mattersย 

Why Join Us? ย 

  • Industry Leader.ย 
  • Inclusive & collaborative culture.ย 
  • Top Workplace USA.ย 
  • Top Workplace Iowa.ย 
  • Charity and community involvement.ย 
  • Outstanding advancement opportunities.ย 
  • Ongoing career development.ย 

Benefits

Competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and generous paid time off starting on your first day of employment (pro-rated). Our total rewards package includes medical, dental, and vision coverage; paid holidays and paid volunteer time; paid parental leave; bereavement leave; life insurance; short- and long-term disability; HSA and FSA options; supplemental voluntary benefits, and a 401K retirement plan with company match.ย 

Employees are eligible for education reimbursement programs, cell phone reimbursement where applicable, and mileage reimbursement for LCS-approved travel.ย 

Our Commitmentย 

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 value for those living in, working for and affiliated with the community. Check us out on our website: https://www.lcsliving.com


Additional Informationย 

Travel frequency: up to 25%ย 

Estimated Salary: $113,000 - $141,000ย 

Annual incentive opportunity: This role is eligible for a company-wide bonus plan based on corporate performance metrics & organizational success.ย 

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

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

LCS IS AN EQUAL OPPROTUNITY EMPLOYER.