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Design Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Apple

Workplace Design Manager

San Jose, CA · On-site

Description The Design Manager will lead the design vision on given projects from conception to completion. Minimum Qualifications Bachelorʼs degree in Architecture, Industrial Design, or a related ...

Apple

Workplace Design Manager

San Jose, CA · On-site

$178K - $268K/yr

Description The Design Manager will lead the design vision on given projects from conception to completion.","responsibilities":"Guide design direction, timely decision making, and all detailing for ...

Apple

ASIC Design Manager

Cupertino, CA · On-site

Description As an ASIC Design Manager, your responsibilities span various aspects of SOC design: - Manage a team of engineers and help them prioritize and interact with partners and customers. Help ...

Apple Inc.

Workplace Design Manager

San Jose, CA · On-site

$178.80 - $268.40/hr

Description The Design Manager will lead the design vision on given projects from conception to completion. Responsibilities * Guide design direction, timely decision making, and all detailing for ...

NIS America, Inc.

Graphic Design Manager

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Graphic Design Manager Full Time NIS America, Inc., Santa Ana, CA, US 5 days ago Requisition ID: 1025 Salary Range: $90,000.00 To $120,000.00 Annually GENERAL POSITION SUMMARY: The Graphic Design ...

Apple

ASIC Design Manager

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$206K - $356K/yr

Description As an ASIC Design Manager, your responsibilities span various aspects of SOC design: - Manage a team of engineers and help them prioritize and interact with partners and customers. Help ...

STV Inc.

Design Manager - Aviation

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$114.35 - $130.68/hr

## Design Manager - AviationApplylocations: South Flower Street, Los Angeles, Californiatime type: Full timeposted on: Posted 9 Days Agojob requisition id: JR5670**STV** is seeking an experienced

The Greenridge Group

Design Manager III

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$165K - $180K/yr

We are seeking an experienced Design Manager III to lead the design oversight for the Terminal 7 & 8 Refresh Program at LAX. This high-visibility role supports major terminal improvements focused on ...

The Greenridge Group

Design Manager III

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$165K - $180K/yr

We are seeking an experienced Design Manager III to lead the design oversight for the Terminal 7 & 8 Refresh Program at LAX. This high-visibility role supports major terminal improvements focused on ...

The Greenridge Group

Design Manager III

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$165K - $180K/yr

We are seeking an experienced Design Manager III to lead the design oversight for the Terminal 7 & 8 Refresh Program at LAX. This high-visibility role supports major terminal improvements focused on ...

Chapman University

Interior Design Manager

Orange, CA · On-site

$95K - $115K/yr

Posting Details Position Information Position Title Interior Design Manager Position Type Regular Job Number SA90724 Full or Part Time full-time 40 hours weekly Fair Labor Standard Act Classification ...

Chapman University

Interior Design Manager

Orange, CA · On-site

$95K - $115K/yr

Position Information Position Title Interior Design Manager Position Type Regular Job Number SA90724 Full or Part Time full-time 40 hours weekly Fair Labor Standard Act Classification Exempt ...

Campos EPC

EIC Design Manager

CA · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

* Support Project Managers and Engineers on a daily basis with design, drafting and mapping deliverables within the expectations of work quality, schedule, and budget. * Work with Project Managers and ...

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Design Manager information

See California salary details

$41.5K

$113K

$198.9K

How much do design manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for design manager in California is $112,992.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,400.00 and $142,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a design manager?

Design Managers are professionals responsible for overseeing the design process within a project or organization. They coordinate and lead design teams, ensure design objectives align with business goals, and manage timelines, budgets, and resources. Design Managers often act as a bridge between creative teams and other departments, facilitating communication and ensuring that the final product meets both aesthetic and functional requirements. Their role can span across industries such as architecture, graphic design, product design, and digital media.

What does a design manager do?

A design manager oversees a design team during a project and typically works in the construction and architecture industries. As a design manager, you may work for specialty companies that contract out to construction firms on a per-project basis. Or, you may spend your career working as an in-house design manager for a construction company or architect firm. Regardless of the location of your job as a design manager, your duties revolve around supervising the design of a building project and include adhering to legislation and codes, eliminating safety and financial risks, and advising clients during development.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a design manager?

To thrive as a Design Manager, you need a strong background in design principles, project management, and leadership, typically supported by a degree in design or a related field and several years of design experience. Familiarity with design software such as Adobe Creative Suite, Figma, and project management tools like Asana or Trello is essential. Exceptional communication, team leadership, and problem-solving skills help distinguish top performers in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for effectively leading creative teams, delivering high-quality design outcomes, and meeting client or organizational goals.

How does a design manager typically balance creative vision with project deadlines and client expectations?

A Design Manager is responsible for guiding their team's creative direction while ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget. This often means carefully prioritizing tasks, setting clear milestones, and communicating regularly with clients and stakeholders to manage expectations. They serve as a bridge between creative teams and project managers, helping to resolve conflicts and maintain a productive workflow. By fostering open collaboration and providing constructive feedback, Design Managers help ensure both the creative vision and practical project requirements are met.

What is the difference between Design Manager vs Graphic Designer?

AspectDesign ManagerGraphic Designer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in design, management experienceBachelor's degree in graphic design or related field
Work EnvironmentLeads design teams, oversees projectsCreates visual content, works independently or in teams
Industry UsageUsed in corporate, agency, and studio settingsCommon in advertising, publishing, branding

The main difference between a Design Manager and a Graphic Designer lies in their responsibilities and scope. Design Managers oversee design teams and strategic project planning, while Graphic Designers focus on creating visual content. Both roles require relevant design credentials, but Design Managers also need leadership experience. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What degree do you need to be a design manager?

A design manager typically holds a bachelor's degree in design, graphic design, industrial design, or a related field. Many also pursue a master's degree or additional certifications to enhance their skills and qualifications for leadership roles in design teams.

What does a design manager earn?

A design manager's salary varies depending on experience, location, and industry, but typically ranges from $80,000 to $150,000 annually. They often oversee design teams, coordinate projects, and use tools like Adobe Creative Suite or CAD software, with higher salaries generally associated with larger companies or senior roles.

What is the highest paying career in design?

In design, executive roles such as Creative Director or Design Director tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures, especially in large corporations or agencies. Specialized fields like UX/UI design, product design, and design consulting can also offer high compensation, particularly with extensive experience and advanced skills in tools like Adobe Creative Suite or Sketch.
More about Design Manager jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Design jobs in California?

The most popular types of Design jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Design Manager jobs in California?

For Design Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Design Manager jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Design Manager jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Design Manager jobs?

Cities in California with the most Design Manager job openings:

Design Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Design Manager job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,992 per year, or $54.3 per hour.

Workplace Design Manager

Apple

San Jose, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Apple rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 683 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 30 rated technology retailers

Job description

In Places, we don't sit back and let things happen, we make things happen, and we do this in service to all Apple employees and customers. Our team is a diverse and nimble group that manages Apple's retail stores, workplaces, and workplace services. We develop and manage Apple's global real estate portfolio, lead all related capital construction projects, provide outstanding facilities and site services, develop and lead sustainability initiatives to reduce the environmental impact of all Apple facilities, including commute and renewable energy programs, and do everything we can to ensure the health and safety of all Apple personnel, facilities, and customers in our facilities around the world.
Our Workplace Design Team focuses on designing incredible human-centered spaces and experiences that reflect Apple's brand and values in the built environment, inspiring and empowering employees to achieve their best work. We are seeking an experienced, collaborative, and detail orientated design professional with a passion for workplace design to join our team as a Design Manager to oversee and manage design related elements for workplace projects in the Americas region.
* Please submit your application with PDF or web link to your portfolio of body of work*
Description
The Design Manager will lead the design vision on given projects from conception to completion.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelorʼs degree in Architecture, Industrial Design, or a related field
10+ years of proven design management experience working with internal and external cross-functional teams globally, in corporate or workplace design environments
Demonstrated leadership skills as an advocate for design on behalf of the company to a variety of internal and external audiences
Successfully managed multiple projects/priorities concurrently in a fast-paced, high growth, and results driven environment
Experienced in developing comprehensive presentations and documentation packages with excellent graphic verbal, written, and presentation skills
Proficient in design, 3D modeling, CAD / BIM, presentation, rendering tools
Ability to understand and interpret applicable building codes, local regulations, and regional laws including accessibility requirements
In-depth technical understanding of commercial construction and related trades / engineering disciplines
Preferred Qualifications
Masters or other advanced degree in Architecture or Design preferred
Understands how to navigate ambiguity to drive forward progress, decisions and results
Experience managing vendors and consultants
Understands the commercial real estate development process on the client-side
Licensed professional
Self-starter and capable individual contributor
Impeccable attention to detail
Excellent independent critical thinking, problem-solving, organizational, and reporting skills
Exceptional designer with the ability to develop and convey compelling designs and describe considerations, implementation strategies, and overall design direction in a succinct manner
Excellent communication, interpersonal and collaboration skills required to develop strong working relationships across business groups and key stakeholders at all levels

What Apple employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About Apple

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Imagine what you could do here! At Apple, new ideas have a way of becoming extraordinary products, services, and customer experiences very quickly. Bring passion and dedication to your job and there's no telling what you could accomplish. Dynamic, intelligent people and inspiring, innovative technologies are the norm here. The people who work here have reinvented entire industries with all Apple Hardware products. The same real passion for innovation that goes into our products also applies to our practices strengthening our dedication to leave the world better than we found it.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cupertino, CA, US

Year founded

1976

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