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Design Manager Jobs in Ruston, LA (NOW HIRING)

As the Director of Automations, you will lead the design, implementation, and enhancement of automation systems to ensure safe and efficient operations. This role manages a team of engineers across ...

As the Director of Automations , you will lead the design, implementation, and enhancement of automation systems to ensure safe and efficient operations. This role manages a team of engineers across ...

As the Director of Automations , you will lead the design, implementation, and enhancement of automation systems to ensure safe and efficient operations. This role manages a team of engineers across ...

As the Director of Automations , you will lead the design, implementation, and enhancement of automation systems to ensure safe and efficient operations. This role manages a team of engineers across ...

Director of Automation & Controls

Ruston, LA · On-site

$67K - $89K/yr

As the Director of Automations , you will lead the design, implementation, and enhancement of automation systems to ensure safe and efficient operations. This role manages a team of engineers across ...

As the Director of Automations, you will lead the design, implementation, and enhancement of automation systems to ensure safe and efficient operations. This role manages a team of engineers across ...

As the Director of Automations, you will lead the design, implementation, and enhancement of automation systems to ensure safe and efficient operations. This role manages a team of engineers across ...

As the Director of Automations , you will lead the design, implementation, and enhancement of automation systems to ensure safe and efficient operations. This role manages a team of engineers across ...

As the Director of Automations , you will lead the design, implementation, and enhancement of automation systems to ensure safe and efficient operations. This role manages a team of engineers across ...

As the Director of Automations , you will lead the design, implementation, and enhancement of automation systems to ensure safe and efficient operations. This role manages a team of engineers across ...

As the Director of Automations , you will lead the design, implementation, and enhancement of automation systems to ensure safe and efficient operations. This role manages a team of engineers across ...

As the Director of Automations, you will lead the design, implementation, and enhancement of automation systems to ensure safe and efficient operations. This role manages a team of engineers across ...

Director of Automation & Controls

Farmerville, LA · On-site

$78K - $103K/yr

As the Director of Automations , you will lead the design, implementation, and enhancement of automation systems to ensure safe and efficient operations. This role manages a team of engineers across ...

As the Director of Automations , you will lead the design, implementation, and enhancement of automation systems to ensure safe and efficient operations. This role manages a team of engineers across ...

As the Director of Automations , you will lead the design, implementation, and enhancement of automation systems to ensure safe and efficient operations. This role manages a team of engineers across ...

As the Director of Automations , you will lead the design, implementation, and enhancement of automation systems to ensure safe and efficient operations. This role manages a team of engineers across ...

As the Director of Automations , you will lead the design, implementation, and enhancement of automation systems to ensure safe and efficient operations. This role manages a team of engineers across ...

As the Director of Automations , you will lead the design, implementation, and enhancement of automation systems to ensure safe and efficient operations. This role manages a team of engineers across ...

Director of Automation & Controls

Ruston, LA · On-site

$67K - $89K/yr

As the Director of Automations , you will lead the design, implementation, and enhancement of automation systems to ensure safe and efficient operations. This role manages a team of engineers across ...

As the Director of Automations , you will lead the design, implementation, and enhancement of automation systems to ensure safe and efficient operations. This role manages a team of engineers across ...

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Design Manager information

See Ruston, LA salary details

$33.9K

$92.4K

$162.7K

How much do design manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for design manager in Ruston, LA is $92,420.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,400.00 and $116,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Design Manager in Construction 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.

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 highest paying job in design?

The highest paying roles in design often include Creative Directors, UX Directors, or Design Directors, especially in large corporations or tech companies. These positions typically require extensive experience, leadership skills, and proficiency with design tools and strategic planning, with salaries reaching six figures or more annually.

How much does a design manager earn?

A design manager's average salary varies by location and experience but typically ranges from $80,000 to $150,000 annually. Factors such as industry, company size, and skill level in design tools and leadership influence compensation.

What does a designer manager do?

A design manager oversees the design team and guides the development of visual concepts for products, branding, or marketing. They coordinate projects, ensure design quality, and collaborate with other departments, often using tools like Adobe Creative Suite or Sketch. Strong leadership, communication, and project management skills are essential for this role.

What are Design Managers?

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

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.

What is the role of a design manager?

A design manager oversees the design team and guides the development of visual concepts, ensuring projects meet client or company standards. They coordinate with other departments, manage timelines, and often use design tools like Adobe Creative Suite or Sketch. Strong leadership, communication, and project management skills are essential for this role.
What cities near Ruston, LA are hiring for Design Manager jobs? Cities near Ruston, LA with the most Design Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Design Manager job openings in Ruston, LA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,420 per year, or $44.4 per hour.

Director of Automation & Controls

Drax

Ruston, LA

$67K - $89K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Director of Automation & Controls
Location: Monroe, LA – This position requires traveling 50% of the time.
As the Director of Automations, you will lead the design, implementation, and enhancement of automation systems to ensure safe and efficient operations. This role manages a team of engineers across various disciplines to develop reliable, scalable, and secure industrial systems that boost productivity and quality.

The Director also supports plant-level processes through troubleshooting, solutions identification, maintenance, and programming. Strong collaboration with plant teams is vital.
Additionally, the Director provides input on plant design for both greenfield and brownfield projects from an automation perspective.
Why join Drax?

At Drax, we're not just generating power; we're transforming it. We're a diverse and committed team, working together to create a brighter, more sustainable future. When you join us, you'll find:

  • A Clear Purpose: Be part of a company at the forefront of sustainable energy, making a real difference for the planet and our communities.
  • Growth Opportunities: We believe in developing our people.
  • Comprehensive Benefits: From day one, you'll receive competitive wages, comprehensive health and dental benefits, and an RRSP matching plan to support your financial goals. You'll also participate in a company bonus plan that rewards overall Drax performance and safety.
  • A Supportive Team: Work in an environment where continuous learning is encouraged, and your contributions are valued. We're a 'can-do' kind of place, empowering you to make informed decisions and do the right thing.

Your Day-to-Day as a Director of Automation & Controls.
Key Accountabilities:
Leadership & Strategy

  • Develop and implement an automation strategy aligned with business goals.
  • Manage and mentor a team of Automation Engineers, an OT Network Engineer, and an Electrical Engineer.
  • Establish engineering standards and foster a culture of innovation.

Automation & Control Systems

  • Oversee the design and commissioning of PLC, HMI, SCADA, and DCS systems.
  • Ensure standardization of platforms and documentation.
  • Drive modernization efforts, including Industry 4.0 and IoT initiatives.
  • Support capital projects from conception to startup.

Operational Support & Reliability

  • Ensure high performance of automation systems in production.
  • Collaborate with teams to troubleshoot and resolve system issues.
  • Implement preventive maintenance and manage equipment obsolescence.

OT Network & Cybersecurity

  • Oversee industrial network reliability and compliance with cybersecurity standards.
  • Lead risk assessments for industrial control systems.

Project Management

  • Manage multiple automation projects, ensuring timely and budget-friendly delivery.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams and manage external vendors.

Compliance & Safety

  • Ensure automation systems meet safety and regulatory standards.
  • Support EHS initiatives to promote safe automated equipment operations.

What you'll bring:
To excel in this vital role, you'll need:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Control Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Automation, or related field
  • Over 10 years of automation experience in forestry or manufacturing
  • 5+ years in a leadership role within an automation team
  • Strong experience with PLCs (Rockwell, Siemens), HMIs, SCADA, and communication protocols
  • Knowledge of industrial networking (Ethernet/IP, Profinet, Modbus)
  • Proficient in electrical programming, troubleshooting, and sensor operations
  • Familiarity with OT cybersecurity principles
  • Experience with robotics and digital transformation initiative
  • Awareness of manufacturing technology trends and their application
  • Proven ability to lead high-performing teams
  • Strong project management and organizational skills
  • Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities
  • Effective communication with technical and non-technical stakeholders
  • Capable of managing multiple projects with competing priorities
  • Proficient in personal computers and business applications

How we act at Drax:
Our culture is built on a few core beliefs that guide everything we do:

We care about what matters: We support each other to achieve important goals.
We're a can-do kind of place: We're empowered to make informed decisions and do what's right.
We see things differently: We share insights, search for new ideas, and innovate.
We listen carefully: We ensure everyone feels heard and valued.
We do what we say we'll do: We are proactive, committed, and reliable.
Ready to make a difference?
Apply today to help Drax discover the talented individuals we need to drive this change. A career at Drax is more than just a job—it's a chance to make a difference.
Curious to learn more about us? We recommend you connect with us on LinkedIn for more insights.
The Drax Talent Acquisition team will never use third-party apps to make job offers. The recruitment process with Drax will always include at least one face-to-face interview, either in person or via an online video call, as well as several phone conversations. Drax will never ask you to download apps to enter timesheet details or ask you to purchase your own IT equipment. If you have any concerns during your recruitment process or suspect something isn't right, please contact us via careers@drax.com to verify the application or details of the person you have been speaking to.