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Design Build Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Suffolk Construction

Design Manager

San Francisco, CA · On-site

The Role The Design Manager will proactively and collaboratively lead integrated teams, made up of ... Build upon Suffolk's world-class construction planning and execution capabilities by strategically ...

Suffolk Construction

Design Manager

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$110K - $155K/yr

The Role The Design Manager will proactively and collaboratively lead integrated teams, made up of ... Build upon Suffolk's world-class construction planning and execution capabilities by strategically ...

Clark Pacific

Project Engineer - Design Build

Woodland, CA · On-site

$80K - $100K/hr

The Project Engineer for the Design Build department coordinates and manages the flow of information to assist superintendents, assistant project managers, project managers, key trade contractors ...

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All JobsDesign Build Manager JobsDesign Build Manager Jobs in California

Design Build Manager information

See California salary details

$27.1K

$80.6K

$135.7K

How much do design build manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for design build manager in California is $80,607.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,300.00 and $115,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What construction jobs pay 100k a year?

For a Design Build Manager, salaries of $100,000 or more are common in large-scale commercial, industrial, or infrastructure projects, especially with extensive experience, certifications, and strong project management skills. Senior roles in construction management often reach or exceed this level, particularly in regions with high construction activity and demand for specialized expertise.

What is a Design Build Manager?

A Design Build Manager is a professional who oversees and coordinates design-build construction projects, serving as the primary liaison between clients, designers, and contractors. They are responsible for managing the entire project from conception through completion, ensuring that both the design and construction phases align with the client’s vision, budget, and timeline. Their duties typically include project planning, budgeting, scheduling, quality control, and facilitating communication among all stakeholders. Design Build Managers play a crucial role in streamlining processes and minimizing risks by integrating design and construction services under a single contract.

What does a build manager do?

A build manager oversees the planning, coordination, and execution of construction projects, ensuring they are completed on time, within budget, and according to specifications. They manage teams, communicate with clients and subcontractors, and use project management tools to monitor progress and resolve issues throughout the construction process.

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

To thrive as a Design Build Manager, you need expertise in project management, construction processes, and architectural design, often supported by a degree in engineering, construction management, or architecture. Proficiency with project management software (such as MS Project or Primavera), BIM tools, and relevant certifications like PMP or DBIA is typically required. Strong leadership, effective communication, and problem-solving skills help facilitate collaboration among stakeholders and resolve conflicts. These abilities are crucial for delivering projects on time, within budget, and to the satisfaction of clients and teams.

How does a Design Build Manager typically collaborate with project stakeholders throughout a construction project?

A Design Build Manager plays a central role in coordinating communication between clients, architects, engineers, and contractors to ensure project objectives are met efficiently. They facilitate regular meetings to address design intent, budget constraints, and construction feasibility, often acting as the primary point of contact for all parties. This collaborative approach helps to streamline decision-making, resolve issues quickly, and maintain alignment from the project's conception through completion, ultimately ensuring a smoother workflow and higher client satisfaction.

What is the highest paid design job?

The highest paid design jobs often include senior roles such as Design Directors, Creative Directors, or Principal Designers, especially in industries like technology, advertising, and architecture. These positions typically require extensive experience, leadership skills, and proficiency with advanced design tools, and they can command six-figure salaries or higher depending on the company and location.

What is the difference between Design Build Manager vs Construction Project Manager?

AspectDesign Build ManagerConstruction Project Manager
CredentialsTypically holds degrees in architecture, engineering, or construction management; certifications like PMP or CCM are commonUsually has degrees in construction management, civil engineering, or related fields; PMP certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentOversees both design and construction phases, often working closely with architects and engineersFocuses primarily on the construction phase, coordinating subcontractors and on-site activities
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in integrated project delivery firms, design-build firms, and general contractorsWidely used in general contracting companies, construction firms, and project development

The Design Build Manager is responsible for managing both design and construction processes, ensuring seamless project delivery. In contrast, the Construction Project Manager primarily oversees the construction phase, focusing on on-site execution. While both roles require strong project management skills and relevant certifications, their scope and responsibilities differ based on project phases and industry practices.

Can I make 100k as a project manager?

A Design Build Manager can potentially earn $100,000 or more annually, depending on experience, location, project size, and industry sector. Senior managers with certifications like PMP and strong leadership skills are more likely to reach or exceed this salary level, especially in high-demand markets or large-scale projects.
What cities in California are hiring for Design Build Manager jobs? Cities in California with the most Design Build Manager job openings:
Design Build Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Design Build Manager job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,607 per year, or $38.8 per hour.

Senior Project Manager (Water Design-Build)

AECOM

Los Angeles, CA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

AECOM rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 58 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 78 rated construction

Job description

Company Description

Work with Us. Change the World.

At AECOM, we're delivering a better world. Whether improving your commute, keeping the lights on, providing access to clean water, or transforming skylines, our work helps people and communities thrive. We are the world's trusted infrastructure consulting firm, partnering with clients to solve the world's most complex challenges and build legacies for future generations.

There has never been a better time to be at AECOM. With accelerating infrastructure investment worldwide, our services are in great demand. We invite you to bring your bold ideas and big dreams and become part of a global team of over 50,000 planners, designers, engineers, scientists, digital innovators, program and construction managers and other professionals delivering projects that create a positive and tangible impact around the world.

We're one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us.

Job Description

The Water Division of AECOM is actively seeking a creative, Water Design-Build Senior Project Manager. This position will be part of an exciting team employing the latest technologies to solve critical water supply, treatment, and infrastructure projects such as water and wastewater treatment plants, pump stations, and conveyance systems throughout the United States.  This is an opportunity to work on some of our nation's most pressing water infrastructure problems and contributing to AECOM's success as an industry leader in engineering and construction. 

Frequent short-term travel up to 50% of the time may be required depending on project workload.

Job Responsibilities:

The Senior Project Manager will be charged with responsibility to actively direct the performance of ongoing Design Build water and wastewater projects as well as take a leadership role in the development and capture of upcoming design build pursuits.

It is desirable that the DB Senior Project Manager is capable of performing in both conceptual and detailed engineering and construction project management capacities.As a DB Senior Project Manager the primary responsibilities will include managing the activities of a multi-discipline design through AECOM's design centers, as well as overall project management for procurement of process equipment and subcontractors, scheduling, VE or constructability reviews, familiarity with job cost reporting, and budget control activities through the life of the project, including EAC analysis during on-site construction as prime contracting entity. Demonstration of strong commercial and construction contract experience

Those Project managers with either Design Build project management experience will be considered especially those with water/wastewater industry experience or those with experience in industrial (process) oriented construction fields.

Fiscal Experience - Proven project management skills to delivery projects at or under budget and on schedule.  Working knowledge of job accounting and reporting methods such as earned value and estimates to complete.

Team Oriented - This position requires the skill set to directly oversee and manage detailed engineering and construction teams working collaboratively together to deliver the project.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Civil, Environmental, Sanitary, Chemical Engineering or related field and 10+ years of relevant experience or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education
  • Valid Driver's license that allows you to drive during the course of your employment; subject to motor vehicle records review

Preferred Qualifications:

  • 20+ years' experience in delivering engineering and construction projects in the water/wastewater industry delivered using progressive design-build, lump sum design-build, or CMAR project delivery methods
  • Good understanding of project delivery and ability to facilitate technical discussions when needed
  • Proven project management experience with ability to manage a diverse team
  • Demonstrated ability to negotiate, influence and manage risk
  • Demonstration of strong commercial and construction contract experience
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills
  • Travel to other offices/sites will be required
  • Experience managing D/B projects that are $30 Million or more
  • A DBIA certificate is preferred but not required
  • P.E. license preferred
  • Experience in working with local and state regulatory agencies
  • Experience in managing both engineering and construction subcontractors
  • Proven ability to conduct competitive assessments and price to win analysis.
Additional Information
  • Sponsorship is not available for this position

About AECOM 

AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan. 

AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients' complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle - from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025. Learn more at aecom.com. 

What makes AECOM a great place to work 

You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you'll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you've always envisioned. Here, you'll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community-where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity. 

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines. 

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