Design Review Manager

Job Description – Design Review Manager

Department: Design Review

Reports To: Director of Operations

Works Directly With: Director of Operations and the Lahontan Covenants Commission (LCC)

Location: Truckee, California

Salary Range: $95,000 – $125,000

About Lahontan

The Lahontan Community Association (LCA) is a premier mountain lifestyle community nestled in the stunning setting of Truckee, California. Blending casual mountain elegance with world-class amenities, Lahontan provides its members and guests with an unparalleled living experience characterized by natural beauty, architectural excellence, and enduring community values. The 900-acre property encompasses 509 homesites defined by refined craftsmanship, environmental stewardship, and cohesive design principles. Our mission is to create lasting memories by fostering meaningful relationships, delivering extraordinary service, and offering unique, world-class experiences. Guided by our core values—honesty, integrity, transparency, and community—we uphold the highest standards of quality and respect in everything we do. At Lahontan, we believe that design shapes experience. We value engagement, innovation, and professionalism, empowering our team to lead with creativity and accountability. Together, we cultivate a culture of gratitude, collaboration, and excellence that defines the Lahontan experience.

Position Summary

The Design Review Manager provides strategic and professional leadership for Lahontan’s architectural and landscape design review process. Reporting to the Director of Operations and working directly with the LCC, this position ensures that all residential development reflects Lahontan’s vision of architectural excellence, environmental harmony, and timeless mountain character. The Manager serves as the principal liaison between homeowners, architects, contractors, and the LCC, guiding projects from concept through completion with expertise, diplomacy, and sound judgment. This individual leads the ongoing evolution of design guidelines, facilitates high-quality architectural outcomes, and safeguards the visual and environmental integrity of the community.

Core Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Oversight

· Direct and oversee all aspects of Lahontan’s Design Review Program, ensuring consistent, transparent, and timely application of community standards.

· Serve as the primary professional liaison to the Lahontan Covenants Commission (LCC), providing design insight, procedural support, and policy guidance.

· Advise the Director of Operations and community leadership on design-related issues, architectural trends, and policy revisions.

· Provide expert recommendations on architectural style, materials, landscape integration, and site design.

· Lead collaboration between staff, committees, consultants, and external partners to foster a culture of design excellence and continuous improvement.

· Balance community standards with innovative, sustainable design solutions that enhance Lahontan’s legacy.

Design Standards & Quality Assurance

· Interpret and apply Lahontan’s Design Guidelines, CC&Rs, and the Davis-Stirling Act to maintain architectural and landscape quality.

· Oversee and evaluate all design submittals to ensure compliance, completeness, and alignment with Lahontan’s design vision.

· Conduct or oversee on-site inspections to verify adherence to approved plans, documenting progress and addressing noncompliance.

· Recommend updates to design standards to improve sustainability, construction quality, and long-term community value.

· Collaborate with legal counsel and consultants on complex design review or compliance matters.

Community Engagement & Professional Liaison

· Act as the public face of the design review process, fostering positive relationships with homeowners, architects, and contractors.

· Provide professional guidance to applicants through all phases of the design and construction review process.

· Lead homeowner and builder education initiatives to enhance understanding of Lahontan’s architectural standards and review procedures.

· Partner with the Roads & Landscaping, Gatehouse, and Community Services departments to ensure coordinated, high-quality community presentation.

Operational & Program Management

· Manage the design review workflow, ensuring efficiency, documentation integrity, and timely communication.

· Oversee review fees, deposits, and financial tracking in coordination with the Finance Department.

· Prepare and deliver detailed reports, agendas, minutes, and recommendations for the LCC, and Board of Directors.

· Maintain a comprehensive and organized project database tracking submittals, approvals, inspections, and compliance.

· Implement digital tools and process enhancements to streamline review procedures and elevate the applicant experience.

Stewardship & Innovation

· Champion Lahontan’s reputation for design excellence, environmental stewardship, and architectural cohesion.

· Evaluate emerging architectural and landscape design trends to ensure Lahontan remains a benchmark for luxury mountain communities.

· Propose guideline enhancements and sustainability initiatives that align with long-term community values and aesthetics.

· Lead periodic reviews of the Community Design Book and procedural documentation, ensuring relevance and clarity.

Qualifications

· Bachelor’s degree preferred in Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Urban Planning, or a related design field.

· 3 - 5 years of progressively responsible experience in architectural design review, planning, or residential development management.

· Professional licensure (AIA, ASLA, or equivalent) strongly preferred.

· Experience working with community associations, resort communities, or master-planned developments highly desirable.

· Strong knowledge of architectural design principles, construction methods, and review procedures.

· Proven ability to communicate with clarity and diplomacy with homeowners, design professionals, and governing committees.

· Demonstrated strength in leadership, analytical thinking, and collaborative problem-solving.

· Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Creative Suite, and design software such as AutoCAD, Revit, or SketchUp.

· Excellent written and verbal communication, presentation, and documentation skills.

· Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation required.

Physical and Working Conditions

· Primarily office-based with frequent meetings and computer use.

· Field inspections require walking and standing on uneven terrain.

· May lift materials up to 25 lbs.

· Occasional evening or weekend meetings required.

Compensation & Benefits

· Salary Range: $95,000 – $125,000

· Comprehensive employer paid health, dental, and vision insurance

· 401(k) savings plan with employer contribution

· Eligible for annual bonus program at LCA Board discretion

· Life insurance and wellness program

· Paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave

· Opportunities for professional development and continuing education

Join Our Team

At Lahontan, design is not just about structures—it’s about creating an enduring sense of place. As Design Review Manager, you will shape the architectural and landscape identity of one of Truckee’s most distinguished private communities. If you are passionate about design excellence, collaborative leadership, and stewardship of community character, we invite you to apply and become part of Lahontan’s legacy of excellence.

Salary : $95,000 - $125,000