Design Manager - Pre Construction

Job Title: Design Manager - Pre-Construction

Job Type: Full-time

Work Location: Onsite (Port Alberni, BC)

Position Summary

We are seeking a Design Manager - Pre-Construction to lead our housing design division. This senior-level role is responsible for the complete architectural and engineering development of our proprietary SmartCore' and PrecisionBuilt systems. Initially a hands-on position, this role will evolve to lead a growing, cross-functional design team as operations scale.

Acting as the bridge between design, engineering, and compliance, the Design Manager ensures all building systems are code-compliant, manufacturable, and optimized for performance, cost-efficiency, and scalability. You will collaborate with clients, consultants, and internal teams to translate requirements into precise shop drawings and build-ready documentation-supporting seamless project execution from concept through installation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead all design and drafting activities within the housing division, including oversight of internal and third-party engineering teams.
• Coordinate inputs from architects, engineers, and specialty consultants to deliver cohesive, code-compliant system designs.
• Translate project requirements into detailed layouts, shop drawings, and comprehensive bills of materials (BOMs).
• Drive the architectural, structural, mechanical, and electrical design of SmartCore' and PrecisionBuilt systems with a focus on manufacturability and installation efficiency.
• Collaborate closely with supply chain, procurement, and process engineering teams to optimize designs for cost and production.
• Improve floor plans, wall assemblies, and component layouts for functionality, compliance, and constructability.
• Ensure all design work complies with the BC Building Code, National Building Code of Canada, and CSA A277 standards.
• Champion innovation and continuous improvement in prefabricated construction methods and product design.
• Develop and maintain a digital design library, including standardized templates, version-controlled models, and technical detail repositories.
• Prepare permit documentation, manufacturing packages, and on-site installation guides.
• Participate in prototype development, performance testing, and product refinement.
• Collaborate with manufacturing teams to support design-for-manufacture-and-assembly (DfMA) initiatives and address production challenges.
• Support business development, marketing, and project delivery with clear communication of design value and technical capabilities.
  
  

Qualifications

• Degree in Architecture, Building Science, Structural Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum 7 years of progressive experience in residential, prefabricated, or industrialized construction design.
• Proven leadership in design management with the ability to scale and manage a team.
• Deep understanding of building code compliance, construction detailing, and cross-disciplinary coordination.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, and other 3D design and drafting tools.
• Strong knowledge of system integration and materials performance in residential construction.
• Experience with hybrid construction methodologies and panelized/prefabricated systems is preferred.
• Skilled in coordination across architectural, structural, mechanical, and electrical disciplines.
• Strong organizational, documentation, and communication skills.
• Comfortable working both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, innovation-driven environment.
  
  

Must-Have Requirements

Construction Experience

• Extensive experience in residential, modular, or industrialized construction.
• Strong working knowledge of building systems, prefabrication, and DfMA principles.
• Proven ability to convert architectural/engineering requirements into build-ready documentation for multifamily or large-scale residential projects.
  
  

Location & Onsite Involvement

• Must be based in or able to commute regularly to Port Alberni, BC.
• Hands-on involvement required during prototyping, testing, and production transitions.
  
  

Technical Proficiency

• Deep understanding of the BC Building Code, National Building Code of Canada, and CSA A277 standards (or ability to quickly demonstrate competency).
• Expert user of AutoCAD, Revit, and 3D modeling tools specific to systemized residential design.
• Skilled at interdisciplinary coordination, including architectural, MEP, and structural teams.
  
  

Innovation & Continuous Improvement

• Passion for improving prefabricated and hybrid construction practices.
• Proven experience optimizing designs for efficiency, sustainability, and affordability.
  
  

Benefits

• Extended health care
• Paid time off
  
  

This is a dynamic opportunity to take ownership of a growing design function and shape the future of prefabricated housing in Canada. If you thrive in hands-on environments and have a passion for innovation in construction, we'd love to hear from you.