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Design Studio Project Manager Jobs in California

Apex Informatics

Retail Design PgM

Mountain View, CA · On-site

Minimum 5 years' experience in design studio project management and production * Experience working in a large, global environment, on complex, high visibility projects with large budgets and brand ...

JGM Inc.

Design Studio Lead

Los Angeles, CA

$225K - $250K/yr

Manage the design process across all project phases including concept, schematic design, design ... Studio management and team development * Business development and strategic growth * Client ...

New

Rapt Studio

Art Director

San Francisco, CA · Hybrid

$90K - $140K/yr

Qualifications * 10+ years of experience in a creative agency, design studio, or similar environment * Proficient with Adobe Creative Suite, Figma, Sketch, and G-Suite * Experience leading project ...

Rapt Studio

Art Director

Los Angeles, CA · Hybrid

$90K - $140K/yr

Qualifications * 10+ years of experience in a creative agency, design studio, or similar environment * Proficient with Adobe Creative Suite, Figma, Sketch, and G-Suite * Experience leading project ...

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Design Studio Project Manager information

See California salary details

$38.5K

$95.9K

$165.8K

How much do design studio project manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for design studio 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 are Design Studio Project Managers?

Design Studio Project Managers are professionals responsible for overseeing and coordinating projects within a design studio environment. They manage timelines, budgets, and resources to ensure that creative projects—such as branding, graphic design, or product design—are completed successfully and meet client expectations. Their role involves collaborating with designers, clients, and other stakeholders to keep projects on track and resolve any issues that arise during the process. Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills are essential for this role.

What are some common challenges Design Studio Project Managers face when coordinating multidisciplinary teams, and how can they overcome them?

Design Studio Project Managers often work with diverse teams comprising designers, developers, and clients, which can lead to challenges in aligning creative visions and project timelines. Clear communication, setting well-defined project milestones, and fostering a collaborative environment are key strategies for overcoming these obstacles. Regular check-ins and transparent feedback channels also help ensure all team members remain on the same page, minimizing misunderstandings and keeping projects on track.

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

AspectDesign Studio Project ManagerInterior Designer
CredentialsProject management certifications, design background often preferredInterior design degree or certification
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, client sites, project teamsDesign studios, client homes, commercial spaces
Primary FocusManaging projects, timelines, budgetsCreating interior design concepts, space planning
Employer & IndustryDesign firms, architecture companies, retail brandsInterior design firms, architecture firms, independent

The Design Studio Project Manager primarily oversees project execution, timelines, and budgets within a design studio, ensuring client and team coordination. In contrast, an Interior Designer focuses on developing design concepts and space planning. While both roles require design knowledge, the project manager emphasizes management skills, making them distinct yet complementary roles in the design industry.

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

To thrive as a Design Studio Project Manager, you need strong project management skills, a background in design or creative industries, and often a bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with project management tools like Asana, Trello, or Microsoft Project, as well as design software such as Adobe Creative Suite, is typically required. Exceptional communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills set standout candidates apart in managing creative teams and client expectations. These abilities are critical for ensuring projects are delivered on time, within scope, and with high-quality results that satisfy both clients and creative teams.
What are popular job titles related to Design Studio Project Manager jobs in California? For Design Studio Project Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Design Studio Project Manager jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Design Studio Project Manager jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Design Studio Project Manager jobs? Cities in California with the most Design Studio Project Manager job openings:
Design Studio Project Manager jobs near you
Project Architect (Interior Design/Architecture)

Project Architect (Interior Design/Architecture)

Rapt Studio

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Be an early applicant

Job description

About Us
Rapt is an award-winning design and strategy studio that helps leading brands navigate the complex challenges of this ever-changing world. With locations in San Francisco, Los Angeles, and New York — and with clients spanning the globe — we bring fresh thinking and a highly customized approach to each and every partnership. Our interdisciplinary teams blend architecture, interior design, brand experience, graphic design, and strategic thinking into holistic solutions that further our clients’ missions. Our agile approach earned us the distinction of being named one of Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies. 

We’re a studio built on connection. The best work happens shoulder-to-shoulder—pin-ups, workshops, model reviews—because ideas move faster in person. We work hybrid: three days together in the studio, with more as projects demand. We value flexibility, but this role isn’t remote; candidates must be local to one of our studios and available onsite regularly.


About the Role
At Rapt Studio, Project Designers work on multiple projects of varying types and scales while maintaining a keen eye for both design and detail. 
 
They’re at the core of the work we do. With dedication and hard work, they have the potential to grow quickly and become a big part of our creative process and output. We’re looking for someone who’s a strong conceptual thinker, visualizer, and designer.
Qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture or Interior Design
  • 4-8+ years of experience working at an architecture or design studio
  • Experience working with project teams from concept design through construction
  • Proficiency with Revit, AutoCAD, SketchUp, Microsoft Office, and Adobe Creative Suite
  • Familiarity with project management, construction administration, budget review, building codes, consultant coordination, and client relations
  • Ability to develop construction documents for review
  • Ability to work with furniture vendors to manage process and deliveries
  • Proficiency and interest in 3D visualization
  • State licensure or pursuance of state licensure is encouraged
We’re looking for:
  • A collaborative individual who isn’t afraid to think outside the box
  • A team player with a positive attitude who’s enthusiastic about tackling the unexpected and unknown
  • A creative person with strong graphic, organizational, and communication skills
  • A conceptual thinker who’s always seeking inspiration
  • A person in active pursuit of mentorship and development, willing to take the first step or the first pass at a problem and seeking review and guidance afterward
Compensation is based on relevant experience and qualifications. Salary for this role is estimated between $75,000 to $100,000 plus benefits and bonuses.
 
Rapt also offers a generous relocation package for eligible candidates.

Benefits and Perks:
Generous options for medical, dental, vision insurance
Location flexibility and unlimited paid time off (PTO)
Tax-deferred savings through FSA, parking and transit allocations
401K with employer contribution
Complimentary One Medical memberships
New hire referral bonus
Phone stipend

We do not use artificial intelligence or automated systems to screen or evaluate job applications. Every application is reviewed by a real member of our team. Because our process is fully human-led and we prioritize thoughtful review, response times may be slower than companies that rely on automation. We appreciate your patience and the care you put into applying.