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Design Project Manager Jobs in Naperville, IL (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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All JobsDesign Project JobsDesign Project Manager JobsDesign Project Manager Jobs in Naperville, IL

Design Project Manager information

See Naperville, IL salary details

$38.9K

$97K

$167.8K

How much do design project manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for design project manager in Naperville, IL is $96,978.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,400.00 and $117,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can I make 100k as a project manager?

A Design Project Manager can earn a salary of $100,000 or more depending on experience, location, industry, and company size. Senior project managers with certifications like PMP and strong leadership skills are more likely to reach or exceed this salary level.

What is the highest paid design job?

The highest paid design jobs are often executive roles such as Creative Director or Chief Design Officer, with salaries reaching into the high six or seven figures for experienced professionals in large organizations. Specialized fields like UX/UI design, industrial design, or design consulting can also command high salaries, especially with advanced skills and certifications.

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 the planning, execution, and delivery of design projects, coordinating between clients, designers, and other stakeholders. They manage timelines, budgets, and resources, often using project management tools like Asana or Trello, to ensure projects meet quality standards and deadlines.

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 are the 4 types of project managers?

In project management, four common types are functional, projectized, matrix, and hybrid managers. Functional managers work within departments, projectized managers lead dedicated teams, matrix managers share resources across projects, and hybrid managers combine elements of these structures. Each type influences communication, authority, and resource allocation in managing design projects.
More about Design Project Manager jobs
What job categories do people searching Design Project Manager jobs in Naperville, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Design Project Manager jobs in Naperville, IL are:
What cities near Naperville, IL are hiring for Design Project Manager jobs? Cities near Naperville, IL with the most Design Project Manager job openings:
Design Project Manager jobs near you
Design Project Manager

Design Project Manager

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Westchester, IL

$110/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 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.