The Senior Associate – Design Services serves as a lead technical and project delivery resource within the Design Services group. This role is responsible for managing project scope, developing and reviewing technical specifications, coordinating with architects, developers, owners, and contractors, and ensuring successful execution from concept through construction administration and project closeout.
The Senior Associate operates independently on complex assignments, acts as a primary client interface, and mentors junior staff while maintaining technical quality, schedule adherence, and profitability.
Key ResponsibilitiesProject Leadership & Delivery- Lead design services assignments from early planning and schematic design through construction administration and closeout
- Define project scope, schedules, and deliverables in coordination with internal teams and clients
- Manage multiple projects simultaneously, including large and technically complex developments
- Serve as Project Manager or Technical Lead on assigned projects
- Prepare, review, and approve technical specifications, drawings, calculations, and reports
- Coordinate traffic analyses, code compliance reviews, and system/equipment selection as required
- Review submittals, shop drawings, RFIs, and change requests to ensure compliance with design intent and specifications
- Provide technical guidance on layout, system design, constructability, and documentation standards
- Act as a primary point of contact for architects, owners, developers, and contractors
- Lead design coordination meetings and represent the firm independently in client-facing environments
- Coordinate with multidisciplinary design teams to deliver integrated and technically sound solutions
- Communicate clearly and professionally throughout the project lifecycle
- Provide construction phase support including site visits, progress reviews, and technical issue resolution
- Review installation methodologies for compliance with specifications and applicable codes
- Support system testing, inspections, punch lists, and project closeout activities
- Mentor and review work prepared by Associates, Design Engineers, and Drafters
- Support development and refinement of internal standards, templates, and tools
- Contribute to continuous improvement of workflows, quality control, and consistency
- Assist with proposal development, scope definition, and fee estimates
- Monitor project hours, budgets, and profitability
- Support client relationships and repeat business opportunities in coordination with leadership
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management, or related field preferred
- 8–12+ years of experience in design services, consulting, or technical project delivery
- Demonstrated ability to manage complex, multi-stakeholder projects
- Strong understanding of construction documents, specifications, and applicable codes
- Experience coordinating with architects, owners, and contractors
- Ability to review and interpret technical drawings and calculations
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office; familiarity with AutoCAD, Revit, or BIM tools preferred
- Strong project management and organizational skills
- Excellent written and verbal communication abilities
- Ability to work independently and exercise sound professional judgment
- Proven leadership and mentoring capabilities
- Ability to perform site visits and field observations as required
- Ability to sit, stand, and work at a computer for extended periods
- Ability to lift up to 15 pounds occasionally
This job description describes the general nature and level of work performed and may evolve based on business needs, project demands, and organizational structure.
EEO/AA Employer/Veteran/Disabled Statement:
VDA provides equal employment opportunity to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
VDA is committed to maintaining a workplace free from discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. Employment decisions, including recruitment, hiring, compensation, promotion, training, discipline, and termination, are based on business needs, qualifications, merit, and performance.
VDA maintains an affirmative action program consistent with applicable legal requirements and is committed to taking affirmative steps to ensure equal employment opportunities for qualified individuals. VDA supports the employment and advancement of qualified individuals with disabilities, protected veterans, and other individuals covered by applicable affirmative action obligations.
VDA is the global leader in vertical transportation consulting and inspection services. We’ve helped clients with their vertical transportation needs since 1980. Our expertise and services impact the design, reliability, lifespan and safety of vertical transportation equipment.
Skills Required
- 8–12+ years of experience in design services, consulting, or technical project delivery
- Demonstrated ability to manage complex, multi-stakeholder projects
- Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management, or a related field
- Strong understanding of construction documents, specifications, and applicable codes
- Experience coordinating with architects, owners, and contractors
- Ability to review and interpret technical drawings and calculations
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office
- Familiarity with AutoCAD, Revit, or BIM tools
- Strong project management and organizational skills
- Excellent written and verbal communication abilities
- Ability to work independently and exercise sound professional judgment
- Proven leadership and mentoring capabilities
- Ability to perform site visits and field observations
- Ability to lift up to 15 pounds occasionally
What We Do
VDA is a vertical transportation consulting and inspection firm focused on elevator and lift systems. It helps clients improve safety, reliability, regulatory compliance, performance, and equipment lifespan through inspections and certificate-compliance management, equipment evaluations, proactive maintenance solutions, modernization recommendations, design, construction, and consulting. Its mission is to apply its team’s technical expertise while advocating for clients to achieve the safest and most efficient vertical-transportation solutions.
