DESIGN MANAGER

JOB ORDER - 57371 WORKSITE - SAN ANTONIO, TX ZIP CODE:  78222 TYPE - DIRECT HIRE 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 OverviewThe 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 CompetenciesDesign & Technical ExpertiseSign design and creative problem-solvingSign industry knowledge and estimating practicesProduction-ready design standardsManufacturing and fabrication processesAdobe IllustratorCorelDRAWAutoCADAI-powered design and workflow toolsLeadership CompetenciesProcess development and continuous improvementRoot cause analysis and problem solvingTeam leadership, coaching, and professional developmentOperational excellenceCross-functional collaborationAI implementation, training, and technology adoptionChange managementProject prioritization and resource planningEssential Job DutiesTeam LeadershipLead, 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 OperationsDevelop, 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 ImprovementIdentify 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 & InnovationEvaluate, 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 CollaborationPartner 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 AssuranceMaintain 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 MetricsSuccess in this role will be measured by: Reduction in design turnaround timesIncreased first-pass production accuracyReduction in fabrication and installation errorsImproved project workflow efficiencySuccessful implementation of AI and automation initiativesTeam engagement, development, and retentionCross-department collaboration and customer satisfactionAchievement of departmental productivity and quality goalsQualificationsRequiredMinimum 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.PreferredAdvanced 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 RequirementsPrimarily 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).BenefitsFull-time employees are eligible for a comprehensive benefits package, including: 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 LocationIn-person – San Antonio, Texas. TO APPLY: To get to work faster, come into our TMD office in person.  Applications accepted from 9AM to 4PM, Mon-to-Fri Bring 2 forms of valid and unexpired IDs along with your bank deposit information for electronic pay Bring a copy of your resume or send us your resume to:  TMD38@texasmgmt.com For more details on this position, call or text us from 8AM - 5PM, Mon-to-Fri, 210-538-5290 OUR ADDRESS: TMD Staffing, 1600 N E Loop 410, Ste. 130, San Antonio, TX 78209  WHO IS TMD STAFFING? TMD Staffing is a trusted provider of staffing and recruiting services in Texas and Maryland for over 25 years. Our team works closely with job seekers to help them identify and land the right jobs for them. With TMD Staffing, you can get your foot in the door at top employers and choose from temporary, temporary-to-hire, and direct-hire jobs. Whether your goal is immediate income or a long-term career strategy, our experts are here to assist. #TMDHMG