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Design Manager Jobs in Norfolk, VA (NOW HIRING)

Design Manager / Lead Drafter ?? Pennsylvania (Hybrid) A rapidly growing architectural fabrication company is seeking a Design Manager / Lead Drafter to play a key leadership role in its expanding ...

The Design Supervisor is responsible for the training and development of the design team, and for ... Manage multiple, simultaneous customer projects through all phases with a high level of accuracy ...

Design Supervisor

Hampton, VA · On-site

$17.10 - $32.90/hr

The Design Supervisor is responsible for the training and development of the design team, and for ... Manage multiple, simultaneous customer projects through all phases with a high level of accuracy ...

Responsible for managing the Design Engineering departments, which include Civil/Str/Arch, Mechanical, and Electrical departments. Responsible for managing design engineering projects of all sizes ...

Design - Sprinkler

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

With assistance from the Design Manager, a Senior Sprinkler Designer, or others, prepare fabrication lists for pipe fabrication vendor and requisition materials for job. * With assistance from the ...

With assistance from the Design Manager, a Senior Sprinkler Designer, or others, prepare fabrication lists for pipe fabrication vendor and requisition materials for job. * With assistance from the ...

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Showing results 1-20

Design Manager information

See Norfolk, VA salary details

$36.2K

$98.7K

$173.6K

How much do design manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for design manager in Norfolk, VA is $98,656.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,000.00 and $124,100.00 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Design jobs in Norfolk, VA?

The most popular types of Design jobs in Norfolk, VA are:

What are popular job titles related to Design Manager jobs in Norfolk, VA?

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

What job categories do people searching Design Manager jobs in Norfolk, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Design Manager jobs in Norfolk, VA are:

What cities near Norfolk, VA are hiring for Design Manager jobs?

Cities near Norfolk, VA with the most Design Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Design Manager job openings in Norfolk, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,656 per year, or $47.4 per hour.

Fire Protection Design Manager

Atlantic Constructors Inc.

Newport News, VA • On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

At ACI we build our company and our culture not by counting people, but by making our people count!

$0.00 COST FOR MEDICAL, DENTAL, SHORT TERM DISABILITY & LIFE INSURANCE (EMPLOYEE ONLY) COVERAGE!

Atlantic Constructors is seeking dynamic, motivated, career minded individuals to join our expanding team! Atlantic Constructors has been recognized as an industry leader in the Mid-Atlantic Region for over 50 years.

Benefits:
  • Medical Insurance Plan ($0.00 Employee-Only)
  • Dental Insurance Plan ($0.00 Employee-Only)
  • Short-Term Disability Plan ($0.00 Employee-Only)
  • Life Insurance Plan ($0.00 Employee-Only)
  • Vision Insurance Plan
  • 401(K) Retirement Plan with Generous Company Matching
  • Health Savings Plan with Generous Company Matching
  • Wellness Programs

Atlantic Constructors offers competitive benefits, for more information check out our comprehensive list on our website Acibuilds.com

THIS ROLE IS OFFERED OUT OF OUR HEADQUARTERS IN RICHMOND, VA. QUALIFIED CANDIDATES WOULD NEED TO BE WILLING TO RELOCATE THEMSELVES TO RICHMOND IF MADE AN OFFER. RELOCATION ASSISTANCE IS OFFERED!

Summary/Objective:

The Fire Protection Design Manager will be responsible for general supervision of all design/BIM aspects of our new construction sprinkler projects.

Essential Functions:
  • Responsible for project management duties for each project and/or delegation to appropriate team member
  • Reviews design drawings for compliance with NFPA codes and project specifications
  • Reviews material submittals for compliance with NFPA codes and project specifications
  • Reviews hydraulic calculations for compliance with NFPA codes and project specifications
  • Reviews and procures all material stock lists for construction projects
  • Coordinates material delivery with customer and field superintendent
  • Supervises designer's tasks and schedules
  • Reviews designer drawings to comply with department standard
  • Monitors design hours for profitability/efficiently
  • Supervises field measuring process with designers
  • Participates in regularly scheduled department meetings to review progress on current projects and future project needs
  • Assists FP sales team with bid take off as needed
  • Coordinates and resolves design conflicts with field superintendent
  • Conducts job "kick-off" meetings for superintendent and field crews
  • Coordinates regular FP department meetings
  • Reviews and approves vendor material invoices for construction
  • Coordinates permit process with local Authority Housing Jurisdiction (AHJ)
  • Coordinates and reviews shop drawing process with A/E
  • Maintains "design" file for each construction project
  • Coordinates with FP service staff for small/day work projects
  • Ensures that proper safety and incident reporting procedures are followed and brings problems to supervisor, safety, or HR
  • Performs other duties as assigned

Supervisory Responsibility: Yes

Required:
  • 5-7 years of experience in fire protection designer and/or equivalent combination of vocational training and experience
  • Prior supervisor/management experience
  • NICET Level II certification (preferred but not required)
  • Understanding of NFPA and local authorities' jurisdiction requirements
  • Ability to interpret architect drawings/specifications
  • Proficient in Windows-based CAD, AutoCAD design software or other fire protection design software
  • Demonstrated mechanical aptitude and spatial orientation aptitude and skills
  • Strong computer skills including Microsoft Office, MS Word and Excel
  • Excellent organizational and communication skills with attention to detail
  • Strong negotiation and problem resolution skills
  • Must be able to multi-task, work with minimal supervision, follow written and oral instructions, show attention to detail, and demonstrate problem-solving skills
  • Fire Protection Design Manager
  • Must be available to work assigned schedule

The work environment and physical demands required would be representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job, and may include, but are not limited to the following:

Work Environment:
  • Works in a professional office environment and routinely uses standard office equipment
  • Position may require visits to construction site
Physical Demands:
  • This role routinely uses construction equipment such as heavy machinery, hand and power tools
  • Fire Protection Design Manager
Travel:
  • May require travel (typically not overnight)
Preferred:
  • Prior military experience

Fire Protection Designer

Final compensation will be determined based on experience, education, licensure, skills, and other relevant factors

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer

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