Job Details

DESIGN PROJECT MANAGER – CA. – COMMERCIAL FOODSERVICE PROJECTS

We have an Outstanding opportunity for a Foodservice Design Project Manager, specifically in California.  The ideal candidate must have recent experience designing commercial kitchens, not restaurants.  Our clients are Workplace, Higher Ed, Healthcare, Sports, Convention, Hotels, etc. The Design Project Managers (DPMs) work under the guidance of a Vice President of Design or a Director of Design and are responsible for leading all aspects of assigned foodservice design projects. DPMs oversee project execution, guide and mentor Project Designers and Design Project Coordinators, and foster strong client and industry relationships that support repeat and new business. DPMs collaborate closely with internal teams and external design partners to ensure every project is delivered on time, on budget, and to an exceptional standard.

Key Responsibilities

Design & Project Execution

• Lead the project process from proposal through completion, ensuring alignment with scope, schedule, and budget.
• Conduct client needs assessments and translate requirements into clear facility goals.
• Develop foodservice programs, schematic designs, and design development packages.
• Oversee preparation of design documents—including plans, elevations, specifications, and cut sheets—with support from Designers, Coordinators, and CAD/REVIT teams.
• Coordinate equipment cost estimates and support contractor selection and bidding.
• Conduct construction reviews, site meetings, and client presentations.
• Manage project workflows across internal partners including Design Project Coordinators, Project Designers, BIM, Accounting, and Marketing.
• Lead and enforce Quality Control reviews at all major milestones, ensuring accuracy, consistency, constructability, and compliance with standards before deliverables are issued.
• Identify potential issues early and guide the team through resolution to maintain project excellence.

Team Leadership & Mentorship

• Provide clear direction, support, and daily guidance to Project Designers and Design Project Coordinators.
• Delegate tasks thoughtfully to balance workload and support staff development.
• Mentor team members in design methods, workflow, communication, and client coordination.
• Model and teach QC practices, ensuring all team members understand and follow quality standards.
• Promote a collaborative, positive, and growth-focused team culture.

Client Service & Business Development

• Build strong client relationships through consistent communication and excellent service.
• Drive client satisfaction to support repeat business and referrals.
• Participate in industry events, conferences, and publications to strengthen visibility and reputation.
• Assist in preparing proposals, project budgets, and scope language with the Marketing Team.
• Identify and pursue new opportunities with existing and prospective clients.
• Maintain accurate project references and materials for Marketing and Business Development.

Financial & Contract Management

• Monitor project time, expenses, and billing using Deltek Vision.
• Manage project profitability and align team efforts with budget expectations.
• Understand contract terms, reimbursable criteria, scope definitions, and deliverable requirements.
• Track and document scope changes; prepare timely additional services requests.
• Support accurate billing and assist Accounting with accounts receivable follow-up as necessary.

Professional Growth

• Strengthen leadership, communication, and project-management skills through ongoing development.
• Deepen understanding of financial management, including budgets, profitability, AR, and billing.
• Expand knowledge of contracts, scopes, risk management, and compliance.
• Learn to read, create, and manage project fees and proposal components.
• Engage with industry & client organizations such as FCSI to build professional presence, strengthen professional standing, grow network and be a visible member.
• Demonstrate initiative, accountability, and sound decision-making across all project responsibilities.

Please forward resume formatted in a Word Doc to Paul Rychlewski at prychlewski@ariteam.com or call Paul at 312.780.7507

Please click “Apply” and be sure to upload your resume. Paul will contact all Qualified Candidates with full Details.

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