Design Manager - Aviation - Senior
Gensler
Seattle, WA
Gensler's Aviation practice plans and delivers high-performance terminal environments that move people and operations with clarity and care. We're seeking an Aviation Project Manager with architectural experience to lead complex airport projects from planning through closeout. You will own scope, schedule, budget, quality, and stakeholder alignment across multi-disciplinary teams while mentoring talent and advancing design excellence.
More about our Aviation practice here.
What You Will Do
Lead day-to-day project delivery across all phases: planning, programming, concept, schematic, design development, documentation, procurement, and construction administration
Serve as the primary client liaison for airport sponsors, airlines, authorities having jurisdiction, and program/construction managers, ensuring clear communication and timely decisions
Build and manage integrated work plans, schedules, and budgets; track progress, forecast risk, and drive issue resolution
Coordinate architecture, interiors, wayfinding, structural, MEP, fire protection, IT/low-voltage, baggage systems, security, sustainability, and specialty consultants
Oversee QA/QC, code analysis, and technical reviews, including IBC, ADA, NFPA, and applicable FAA Advisory Circulars and TSA/CBP requirements
Lead documentation and delivery in Revit, manage model coordination and clash detection, and guide digital standards
Direct construction administration, including RFIs, submittals, pay apps, change management, field observations, punch, and closeout
Plan and manage airside/landside logistics, phasing in occupied facilities, and night or constrained work windows
Develop fees, scopes, proposals, contracts, and schedules; contribute to pursuits, interviews, and thought leadership within the Aviation practice
Mentor junior staff, foster a collaborative culture, and uphold Gensler's design and technical standards
Your Qualifications
Bachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture from an accredited program
10+ years of professional experience, including 4+ years leading large, complex projects; recent terminal or concourse experience required
Architectural license (WA preferred). NCARB preferred
Proven track record managing scope, schedule, budget, and risk on multi-stakeholder programs
Strong client leadership skills with clear, concise communication in meetings, workshops, and executive briefings
Proficiency in Revit and coordination workflows; familiarity with Navisworks/Clash, Bluebeam, and MS Project (or Primavera)
Knowledge of aviation standards and authorities, including FAA ACs, TSA/CBP interfaces, baggage/SSCP planning, and terminal systems integration
Thorough understanding of building codes, life safety, accessibility, and airport technical requirements
Experience with alternative delivery (CMAR, GC/CM, Design-Build) and change-order negotiation
Commitment to sustainability; familiarity with LEED, WELL, and Envision frameworks
Preferred
12-15 years total experience with multiple built aviation projects
Experience in the Pacific Northwest market and relationships with regional airport stakeholders
Architectural license in multiple state: CA, OR, ID preferred
PMP or comparable project management certification
Experience with wayfinding/EGD integration and passenger experience design
Data-driven performance metrics and post-occupancy evaluation experience
For consideration, please submit a cover letter, resume and/or portfolio in PDF format.
*The base salary will be estimated between $90,000 - $135,000 plus bonuses and benefits and contingent on relevant experience.
Life at Gensler
As a people-first organization, we are as committed to enjoying life as we are to delivering best-in-class design. From curated art exhibits to internal design competitions to "Well-being Week," our offices reflect our people's diverse interests.
We encourage every person at Gensler to lead a healthy and balanced life. Our comprehensive benefits include medical, dental, vision, disability, wellness programs, flex spending, paid holidays, and paid time off. We also offer a 401k, profit sharing, employee stock ownership, and twice annual bonus opportunities. Our annual base salary range has been established based on local markets.
As part of the firm's commitment to licensure and professional development, Gensler offers reimbursement for certain professional licenses and associated renewals and exam fees. In addition, we reimburse tuition for certain eligible programs or classes. We view our professional development programs as strategic investments in our future.
Gensler celebrates diversity and our commitment to creating an inclusive environment for our colleagues. We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer of choice. All aspects of employment decisions will be based on merit, performance, and business needs. We do not discriminate on the basis of any status protected under federal, state, or local law. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, reproductive health decisions, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, genetic information, political views or activity, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. Women, minorities, individuals with disabilities and protected veterans are encouraged to apply. We also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with applicable federal, state and local law.
You may view our Pay Transparency Statement, your EEO rights under the law, and EEO is the law supplemental information on our website. Gensler shares the right to work and participates in the E-Verify program in certain locations, as required by law.
Gensler endeavors to make gensler.com/careers accessible to all applicants. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us.
Regarding Gensler’s approach to recruiting new talent, we will never ask an applicant for sensitive or personal financial information during the recruitment process. We advise all applicants seeking employment with Gensler to review available information on recruitment fraud. Anyone who suspects that they have been contacted by someone falsely representing Gensler should email info@gensler.com.
About the Company
Gensler
As architects, designers, planners and consultants, we partner with our clients on some 3,000 projects every year. These projects can be as small as a wine label or as large as a new urban district. With more than 3,500 professionals networked across 43 locations, we serve our clients as trusted advisors, combining localized expertise withglobal perspective wherever new opportunities arise.
Our work reflects an enduring commitment to sustainability and the belief that design is one of the most powerful strategic tools for securing lasting competitive advantage.
Clients
We have more than 2,000 active clients—large and small, public and private, for-profit and nonprofit—a true cross-section of the global economy. We put ourselves in the world of our clients to see issues and challenges through their eyes. Our approach to individual projects is always viewed in the context of our clients' larger business plans and strategies, enabling us to add more value to their enterprises.
Everything we do is organized around providing the best possible service to our clients. As we've grown, we've expanded resources and diversified our expertise to provide a 24/7-platform for delivering client projects, regardless of size, complexity or location.
Leadership
Gensler uses a collaborative model of senior leadership. Our Board of Directors sets overall strategy and policy. Executive Directors Andy Cohen, David Gensler and Diane Hoskins run the firm, working with and through our Management Committee. Together, they direct and integrate our practices, offices, and design and delivery teams to serve our clients effectively on a global, 24/7 basis.
Behind each client is a worldwide network of architects, designers, planners and consultants led by 196 Principals in 43 locations, a firm with an international reputation for innovative design, superb delivery, and efficient management of its teams and projects.
Please view our 2013 Appointments website to meet our newest Gensler Principals, Senior Associates and Associates.