DESIGN MANAGER

TMD Staffing is interviewing for a DESIGN MANAGER for a well known signage group in San Antonio, TX. The Design Manager will make sure that processes are clear and concise. The goal will be to improve efficiency, teamwork and design accuracy. This role guides both the creative and operations side of the work, helping projects move smoothly form concept to customer, presentation to production and installation. This is a direct hire opportunity and is resume and interview based. Position Overview The Design Manager provides leadership for the Design Department by overseeing the creative, technical, and operational aspects of the design process. This role is responsible for developing standardized workflows, improving departmental efficiency, mentoring design team members, and ensuring designs are accurate, production-ready, and aligned with customer expectations. The Design Manager partners closely with Sales, Estimating, Project Management, Production, and Installation teams to ensure projects transition seamlessly from concept and customer presentation through manufacturing and installation. This position also champions the implementation of AI technologies and automation tools to improve productivity, consistency, and overall business performance. Functional Competencies Design & Technical Expertise Sign design and creative problem-solving Sign industry knowledge and estimating practices Production-ready design standards Manufacturing and fabrication processes Adobe Illustrator CorelDRAW AutoCAD AI-powered design and workflow tools Leadership Competencies Process development and continuous improvement Root cause analysis and problem solving Team leadership, coaching, and professional development Operational excellence Cross-functional collaboration AI implementation, training, and technology adoption Change management Project prioritization and resource planning Essential Job Duties Team Leadership Lead, mentor, and develop the Design Team while fostering a collaborative and high-performance culture. Conduct regular coaching sessions, performance evaluations, and professional development planning. Establish department goals and monitor individual and team performance. Allocate workloads and resources to meet project deadlines. Design Operations Develop, implement, and maintain standardized design processes and production-ready design standards. Review and approve design work for accuracy, manufacturability, and compliance with company standards. Ensure all customer presentations, shop drawings, and production files meet quality expectations. Collaborate with Estimating and Sales to ensure accurate project scope and feasibility. Process Improvement Identify workflow bottlenecks and implement scalable solutions that improve efficiency. Conduct root cause analysis on design errors and production issues. Develop standard operating procedures (SOPs), templates, and best practices. Drive continuous improvement initiatives across the department. Technology & Innovation Evaluate, implement, and optimize AI-powered tools to increase productivity and improve design quality. Train team members on emerging software, automation tools, and new technologies. Promote adoption of innovative solutions that streamline repetitive tasks and improve collaboration. Cross-Functional Collaboration Partner with Project Management, Production, Installation, and Sales to ensure smooth project execution. Participate in project planning meetings and resolve technical design challenges. Improve communication and information flow between departments. Support continuous improvement initiatives throughout the organization. Quality Assurance Maintain quality control throughout the design process. Verify designs comply with customer requirements, engineering standards, municipal codes, and manufacturing capabilities. Reduce fabrication errors by ensuring complete and accurate production documentation. Performance Metrics Success in this role will be measured by: Reduction in design turnaround times, Increased first-pass production accuracy, Reduction in fabrication and installation errors, Improved project workflow efficiency, Successful implementation of AI and automation initiatives, Team engagement, development, and retention, Cross-department collaboration and customer satisfaction, Achievement of departmental productivity and quality goals. Qualifications Required Minimum of 3 years of experience in sign design, manufacturing, architecture, engineering, or a related industry. Leadership experience managing or mentoring design professionals. Strong understanding of production-ready design principles and manufacturing processes. Experience developing processes, workflows, and quality standards. Excellent communication, organization, and problem-solving skills. Preferred Advanced proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, CorelDRAW, and AutoCAD. Experience implementing AI tools and workflow automation technologies. Knowledge of sign manufacturing methods, materials, permitting, and fabrication processes. Experience with ERP, project management, or production management systems. Work Environment & Physical Requirements Primarily office-based position with occasional travel to customer sites or project locations. Collaborative team environment with opportunities for professional growth and development. Occasional overtime may be required to meet project deadlines or customer commitments. Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods. Ability to lift and carry up to 15 pounds as needed (such as project samples or equipment). Benefits Company-paid medical coverage for employees, with affordable dependent coverage options. Dental, vision, and prescription insurance. 401(k) retirement savings plan with multiple investment options. Generous Paid Time Off (PTO), including vacation and company holidays. Company-paid life insurance and disability insurance. Work Location In-person – San Antonio, Texas. #J-18808-Ljbffr