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Design Project Manager Jobs in Downers Grove, IL

Ryan Companies

Design Project Manager

Chicago, IL

$99K - $120K/yr

Ryan Companies, Inc. is searching for a talented Design Project Manager to join our A+E team in our Chicago office. This individual will primarily be responsible for problem solving and managing the ...

Ryan Companies

Design Project Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$99K - $120K/yr

Ryan Companies, Inc. is searching for a talented Design Project Manager to join our A+E team in our Chicago office. This individual will primarily be responsible for problem solving and managing the ...

Page Group

Senior Civil Design Project Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$200K - $250K/yr

The Senior Civil Design Project Manager will lead the delivery of transportation and civil design projects for the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT). This is a senior client-facing role ...

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All JobsDesign Project JobsDesign Project Manager JobsDesign Project Manager Jobs in Downers Grove, IL

Design Project Manager information

See Downers Grove, IL salary details

$38.4K

$95.5K

$165.2K

How much do design project manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for design project manager in Downers Grove, IL is $95,523.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,400.00 and $116,100.00 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a design project manager?

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.

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 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.

More about Design Project Manager jobs

What job categories do people searching Design Project Manager jobs in Downers Grove, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Design Project Manager jobs in Downers Grove, IL are:

What cities near Downers Grove, IL are hiring for Design Project Manager jobs?

Cities near Downers Grove, IL with the most Design Project Manager job openings:

Design Project Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Design Project Manager job openings in Downers Grove, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,523 per year, or $45.9 per hour.

Design Project Manager

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Westchester, IL • On-site

$110/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Title: Design Project Manager (Automation)
Location: Westchester, IL
Hire Type: Direct Hire
Compensation: $110-130K yrly + Full Benefit Package

Overview:

Sterling Engineering is seeking a highly experienced Design Engineering Project Manager to lead innovative automation projects from concept through completion. This is a high-impact role for a technical leader who thrives at the intersection of engineering, client engagement, and project execution.
You’ll play a key role in designing and delivering cutting-edge automated systems across manufacturing, assembly, and material handling environments—while guiding teams and partnering directly with clients.


Job Duties:

  • Lead automation projects from concept, quoting, and design through execution and delivery
  • Collaborate with clients to understand needs, develop solutions, and define project scope
  • Support business development efforts by participating in client meetings and proposals
  • Oversee design activities, including CAD development, drawing reviews, and system modifications
  • Develop bills of materials, cost estimates, and project proposals
  • Ensure all designs meet quality standards through thorough QA reviews
  • Coordinate internal teams and external resources to deliver projects on time and within scope
  • Drive continuous improvement of systems, processes, and design standards
  • Mentor and develop engineering team members


Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field
  • 10+ years of experience leading design or engineering teams
  • Strong background in automation systems, robotics, PLCs, and mechanical design
  • Experience with CAD tools (AutoCAD, Inventor, SolidWorks)
  • Proven ability to manage projects, develop proposals, and interface with clients
  • Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills


Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.