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Design Project Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Design firm seeking experienced Project Manager. Ideal candidates should have thorough knowledge and experience in the processing of building permits. Knowledge of building codes and technical ...

Design firm seeking experienced Project Manager. Ideal candidates should have thorough knowledge and experience in the processing of building permits. Knowledge of building codes and technical ...

Design Project Manager

Irvine, CA · On-site

$67K - $74K/yr

Seeking a Design Project Manager to manage projects from planning to completion in the aspects of design, timelines, costs, etc. Responsibilities: * Our focus on engineering quality for our projects ...

Kitchell seeks an experienced and dedicated Design Project Manager to join our Southern California region in Los Angeles area and build a long-term career at one of the most innovative and growth ...

Design Project Manager

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$135K - $160K/yr

Description Kitchell seeks an experienced and dedicated Design Project Manager to join our Southern California region in Los Angeles area and build a long-term career at one of the most innovative ...

Design Project Manager

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$118K - $125K/yr

Position Summary Heath Ceramics is seeking a Design Project Manager to join our team. This is a highly cross-functional role, working closely with Product Development, Manufacturing, Creative ...

Project management & leadership skills (participation in clubs, organizations, etc. and/or ... Basic knowledge of structural design (particularly in seismic design, concrete, and steel design)

Join us. AECOM is actively seeking a creative, highly talented Aviation Design Project Manager for immediate employment for the San Francisco, Orange, or Los Angeles, CA office. Job Summary ...

Join us. AECOM is actively seeking a creative, highly talented Aviation Design Project Manager for immediate employment for the San Francisco, Orange, or Los Angeles, CA office. Job Summary ...

CA · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

We take pride in our commitment to research-based design, speed, and efficiency. Position Summary: Silver Creek is seeking a Senior Project Manager to lead the development and completion of ...

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Design Project Manager information

See California salary details

$38.5K

$95.9K

$165.8K

How much do design project manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for design project manager in California is $95,851.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,600.00 and $116,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is a Design Project Manager?

Design project managers oversee one or a group of creative projects for a client. They are often found working on interior design efforts and online web design projects. As a design project manager, your job duties include establishing the project schedule, monitoring the budget, and motivating a team of creative professionals. The qualifications to pursue a career as a design project manager include a bachelor’s degree in art, graphic design, or business management and several years of industry experience.

What does a Design Project Manager do?

A Design Project Manager oversees and coordinates the planning, execution, and completion of design projects. They act as a bridge between clients, designers, and other stakeholders to ensure that projects are delivered on time, within budget, and meet the desired quality standards. Their responsibilities include creating project timelines, managing resources, resolving issues, and communicating progress to all parties involved. Design Project Managers often work in industries such as architecture, graphic design, interior design, or product development.

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

To thrive as a Design Project Manager, you need expertise in project management methodologies, design principles, and a relevant degree, often paired with experience in design or architecture fields. Familiarity with project management tools (such as Asana, Trello, or MS Project), design software (like Adobe Creative Suite), and certifications such as PMP or Agile are often required. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help manage teams, stakeholders, and project challenges effectively. These competencies ensure projects are delivered on time, meet quality standards, and align with client or organizational goals.

What is the difference between Design Project Manager vs Interior Designer?

AspectDesign Project ManagerInterior Designer
CredentialsProject management certifications, design backgroundInterior design degree, licensing (if applicable)
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, design firms, client meetingsShowrooms, clients' homes, design studios
Industry UsageConstruction, architecture, design firmsResidential, commercial interior design
Primary FocusManaging design projects, timelines, budgetsCreating interior spaces, aesthetics, functionality

The main difference is that a Design Project Manager oversees the entire project process, coordinating teams and managing timelines, while an Interior Designer focuses on designing and decorating interior spaces. Both roles require design knowledge, but their responsibilities and daily tasks differ significantly.

How does a Design Project Manager typically coordinate collaboration between design teams and other departments?

A Design Project Manager acts as a central point of communication, ensuring that design teams work closely with stakeholders such as marketing, engineering, and product management. They regularly hold meetings to align project goals, clarify requirements, and address any roadblocks, fostering a collaborative environment. By managing timelines and expectations across departments, they help ensure that design deliverables integrate seamlessly with larger organizational objectives. This role often requires balancing creative vision with practical constraints from other teams, making strong communication and negotiation skills essential.
What job categories do people searching Design Project Manager jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Design Project Manager jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Design Project Manager jobs? Cities in California with the most Design Project Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Design Project Manager job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,851 per year, or $46.1 per hour.

Design Project Manager

Gispan Design

Sherman Oaks, CA • On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Design firm seeking experienced Project Manager. Ideal candidates should have thorough knowledge and experience in the processing of building permits. Knowledge of building codes and technical standards required. Must be proficient with AutoCAD and able to read and coordinate architectural, structural, and civil plans.
Duties:
  • Communicate with clients directly regarding permits, ensuring their expectations are met.
  • Submit plans, documents, and payments to the city regarding permits.
  • Ensuring structural drawings and designs are produced on time, to a high quality.
  • Review plans and work together with the expeditor.
  • Attend meetings with the plan checker in person and go over corrections in person.
  • Keeping up-to-date with changing building legislation and codes of practice relating to design.

Requirements:
  • 2+ years’ experience in processing building permits.
  • Proficient in AutoCAD.
  • Able to read and coordinate architectural, structural, and civil plans.
  • Excellent customer service, great attitude.
  • Must possess strong time management and people management skills, as well as have the ability to handle the pressure of tight deadlines.
  • Extremely detail-oriented.
  • Reliable vehicle and car insurance.