Design Manager Jobs in Wayzata, MN (NOW HIRING)

Tierra Encantada is the leader in Spanish immersion early education®. We have corporate and franchise centers and are expanding through regional and national growth. We are proud to be the 18th fastest growing private company in Minnesota and have around 220 employees.

At Tierra, we value diversity and know that diversity makes the world a better place. We are team-focused, always willing to help our colleagues out and you will never hear someone say something isn’t in their job description. We take ownership and are accountable for our tasks and responsibilities. This means we are resourceful and find the answers we need and don’t add to our colleagues’ plates just because it is easy. We have a passion for excellence and are always working to make things amazing for our staff, our families, and the children we care for. These core values guide our decisions to hire, and only candidates that align with those values will be considered.

This position is best suited for someone that excels in a fast-paced, results-oriented, start-up environment. As a Design Manager at Tierra Encantada, you will play a crucial role in shaping the physical spaces where young learners thrive. You will lead the design process for new childcare locations, ensuring that each facility reflects the company's commitment to excellence, creativity, and cultural immersion. Your expertise will contribute to the creation of safe, engaging, and culturally rich environments that support our mission of providing high-quality Spanish immersion childcare.

Position Responsibilities (including but not limited to):

• Design Leadership: Take ownership of the design process for new Tierra Encantada locations. Lead the conceptualization, planning, and execution of design concepts that align with the company's vision and mission.
• Project Management: Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including architects, suppliers and vendors, contractors, and stakeholders, to ensure seamless project execution. Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources effectively to deliver exceptional results within set parameters.
• Design Strategy: Develop and articulate design strategies that prioritize child safety, age-appropriate learning environments, and cultural immersion. Infuse creative and innovative ideas into design concepts while adhering to industry best practices and safety standards.
• Cultural Immersion: Infuse Spanish language and cultural elements into the design, creating an immersive environment that sparks curiosity and cultural awareness in young learners.
• Stakeholder Collaboration: Engage with internal stakeholders to understand their needs and preferences, translating them into actionable design plans. Present design concepts and updates clearly and persuasively to gain buy-in from various parties.
• Vendor Management: Collaborate with external design firms, contractors, and suppliers to ensure that design plans are executed accurately and to the highest standards. Negotiate contracts and manage relationships to achieve the desired outcomes.
• Quality Control: Conduct regular site visits to monitor effectiveness of designs, quality of work, and adherence to design specifications. Address any design-related issues or changes promptly and effectively.
• Budget Oversight: Work closely with the construction leadership to manage project budgets, ensuring cost-effective solutions while maintaining design integrity and quality.

Given the nature of construction projects, work outside of business hours and travel may be required occaisionally. If you are a creative and strategic thinker with a passion for designing transformative spaces that positively impact young learners, we invite you to join our team as a Design Manager at Tierra Encantada.

Job Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Interior Design, Architecture, or a related field.
• Proven experience in managing design projects, preferably in the childcare or education sector.
• Strong portfolio showcasing innovative and culturally immersive design concepts.
• Proficiency in design software such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite, etc.
• Knowledge of industry standards, regulations, and safety guidelines for childcare facilities.
• Excellent project management skills, including the ability to multitask, prioritize, and meet deadlines.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders.
• Passion for education, child development, and creating enriching learning environments.
• Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish is a plus.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

401(k)

401(k) matching

Dental insurance

Employee discount

Flexible schedule

Health insurance

Health savings account

Paid time off

Parental leave

Professional development assistance

Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift

Ability to commute/relocate:

• Minneapolis, MN 55406: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person