Retail Design Project Manager Jobs in Middletown, NJ

About Yabu Pushelberg

Yabu Pushelberg is a globally renowned design firm specializing in creating immersive environments and innovative design solutions across a wide range of industries.  Founded in 1980 by George Yabu and Glenn Pushelberg, the firm has established itself as a leader in the world of design, known for its meticulous attention to detail and visionary approach.  With offices in Toronto and New York, Yabu Pushelberg works on projects that span the globe, including luxury retail, hospitality, residential and commercial spaces.  

Culture: YP's culture is built on a foundation of creativity, collaboration and excellence.  YP is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace where every team member is valued and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives.  YP's core values - integrity, innovation and passion - guide everything YP does, from their design process to their interactions with clients and colleagues. 

YP promotes a workplace environment that emphasizes continuous learning and professional development, ensuring team member grow both personally and professionally.  Their commitment to sustainability and social responsibility is reflected in their projects and practices, striving to make a positive impact on the communities they serve. 

Join YP and be part of a dynamic team that is shaping the future of design!

Position Overview

We are seeking a detail-oriented and highly organized Project Manager to join our New York design team. The Project Manager is responsible for overseeing projects from concept through completion, ensuring timelines, budgets, and deliverables are effectively managed. This role works closely with the design team, consultants, and clients to coordinate all phases of the project, maintain clear communication, and ensure seamless execution.

In addition, the Project Manager will be responsible for maintaining accurate project financials, including tracking billables, monitoring budgets, and supporting revenue forecasting to ensure overall project profitability.

The ideal candidate will have strong organizational and problem-solving skills, a solid understanding of project-based financial management, experience managing multiple projects simultaneously, and the ability to work independently in a fast-paced, design-driven environment.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Accountability & Project Delivery: 

• Maintains accurate, transparent project information to support strategic decision-making, leveraging tools such as MS Project, ClickUp, Unanet, and Excel.
• Reviews project contracts to assess schedule feasibility, scope alignment, and risk.
• Participates in project handover and supports onboarding to the design team following award from Business Development.
• Collaborates with Business Development during contract negotiations to support schedule forecasting and clarify scope.
• Evaluates project pipeline with DD/DMs and Business Development to assess scope, identify risks, and develop schedules and workplans.
• Develops and manages project schedules, including key milestones and deliverables, in collaboration with DD/DMs and PLs.
• Coordinates with clients, consultants, operators, and internal teams (e.g., Lighting, Decorative Arts, Industrial Design) to align scope, schedule, fees, and resources.
• Partners with DD/DMs and PLs to proactively manage timelines, allocate resources, and prioritize deliverables.
• Resolves internal and external issues that may impact project timelines or deliverables.
• Provides regular project updates, escalating risks, blockers, and challenges as needed.
• Participates in project handover meetings with Business Development upon contract finalization.

Financial Management: 

• Monitors and manages project financials in collaboration with DD/DMs, PLs, and Finance, including forecasting, fee schedules, billing projections, and negotiations.
• Prepares preliminary FF&E budgets during the Design Development phase in collaboration with PLs and Senior Designers.
• Tracks billing and forecasting, reviewing regularly with Finance and adjusting as needed.

Client, Consultant & Vendor Management:

• Plays an active role in client management and consultant coordination from Design Documentation through to project completion.
• Coordinates with clients, consultants, and construction teams to drive value engineering while preserving design intent.
• Builds and manages vendor relationships, promoting preferred partners within projects.

Design & Constructability Oversight:

• Participates in early design phases to provide input on budget and constructability.
• Reviews drawings to identify constructability risks and other potential issues.
• Conducts final QA/QC reviews of design and construction documentation at key milestones (e.g., 50% and 100% submissions).
• Reviews deliverables across stakeholders, including consultant drawings, collaborator outputs, and architect-issued construction documents.

Contract Administration & Delivery: 

• Oversees the tracking and review of shop drawings, samples, and RFI responses, incorporating input from DD/DMs and PLs as needed.
• Prepares and issues Additional Service Authorizations (ASAs) and Change Orders, identifying opportunities in collaboration with DD/DMs and PLs.
• Manages the receipt, logging, and distribution of samples and submittals, coordinating with administrative support as needed.
• Oversees communication and distribution of submittals and RFI responses via appropriate platforms (e.g., email, FTP, Procore).

Construction Phase & Site Engagement: 

• Conducts site visits and mock-up reviews independently or with DD/DMs and PLs, including international travel as required.
• Monitors construction progress against schedule and CA fees.
• Coordinates and attends factory visits, site inspections, and related reviews with internal teams, vendors, and contractors.
• Issues formal site reports and punch lists following site visits.

Team Leadership & Development: 

• Collaborates with DD/DMs to plan staffing and resource allocation.
• Participates in hiring processes and provides recommendations on candidates.
• Reviews team performance (financial and operational) with the Design Director.
• Mentors and supports the development of junior staff, sharing practical, on-site insights and best practices in documentation and constructability.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree or diploma in Interior Design, Architecture, Project Management, or a related field
• 3–5 years of experience in project management within an interior design, architecture, or professional services environment
• Demonstrated experience managing projects through all phases, from concept to construction administration.
• Strong understanding of project budgeting, fee structures, and financial tracking, including managing billable hours and supporting revenue projections
• Experience coordinating with consultants, contractors, and vendors, including involvement in pricing, procurement, and contract administration
• Proficiency in project management and design-related tools (e.g., scheduling software, AutoCAD, Revit, or similar) is considered an asset
• Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to anticipate challenges and implement solutions proactively
• Ability to work independently and meet deadlines in a fast-paced, design-driven environment
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with clients, team members, and external partners.

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• A collaborative and supportive work environment with opportunities for growth and development
• Exposure to exciting, high impact projects across various sectors.
• Flexible Fridays.

EOE Statement - Yabu Pushelberg is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We value the unique perspectives and backgrounds of all our employees and are committed to ensuring that everyone has an equitable opportunity to succeed and thrive. Our goal is to create an environment where every individual feels respected, valued, and empowered to contribute their best. We actively encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds.  Together, we strive to build a workforce that reflects the diverse communities we serve and to uphold the highest standards of fairness and inclusion in every aspect of our organization.

We are committed to an accessible recruitment process. If you require accommodations at any stage of the hiring process, please let us know. We welcome the opportunity to discuss your needs and ensure a fair and inclusive experience.