Civil Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Civil Design Manager

Company: AECOM

Location: Orange, California, United States

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Engineering & Civil Design Operations

Date Posted: June 10, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the design and development of critical civil infrastructure projects, including dams, water/wastewater treatment facilities, and pipelines, leveraging advanced civil engineering principles and design software.

• Mentor and guide junior engineering staff, fostering technical growth and ensuring the successful execution of design tasks and project responsibilities.

• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including geotechnical, structural, mechanical, and electrical engineers, to ensure seamless integration of civil designs with other engineering disciplines.

• Provide comprehensive construction support, bridging the gap between office design and field implementation through site inspections, adaptive design, and client engagement.

• Utilize industry-leading design software such as AutoCAD Civil 3D and Bentley Microstation to produce detailed engineering drawings, calculations, and assessments.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a Civil Design Manager, indicating a significant level of responsibility in technical leadership, project execution, and team management within civil engineering projects. The emphasis on dams, water/wastewater, and power sectors suggests a specialization in infrastructure consulting, requiring a blend of technical expertise and project oversight. The hybrid work arrangement implies a need for strong self-management and communication skills.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Oversee and contribute to the conceptualization, design, and analysis of civil infrastructure components such as channels, culverts, headwalls, detention ponds, operating ponds, spillways, rock drains, check dams, and haulage/access/circulation roads.

• Conduct detailed hydrologic and hydraulic modeling to assess water flow, drainage patterns, and environmental impacts, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.

• Develop accurate quantity take-offs and cost estimates, providing essential data for project budgeting and financial planning.

• Perform thorough alternative assessments to identify and recommend the most effective and efficient design solutions based on technical feasibility, cost, and environmental considerations.

• Coordinate and integrate civil design elements with the findings and requirements from geotechnical, structural, mechanical, and electrical engineering disciplines to ensure holistic project integrity.

• Engage in periodic field experience to develop tangible engineering design skills, including construction support, site inspections, and geotechnical investigations, and adapt designs based on field conditions.

• Generate professional engineering drawings and visual aids using AutoCAD Civil 3D or Bentley Microstation, adhering to company standards and project specifications.

• Actively participate in client meetings, presenting design concepts, progress updates, and technical solutions, and build strong client relationships.

• Mentor junior engineers and designers, providing technical guidance, feedback, and professional development support to enhance team capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical design, project coordination, client interaction, and team leadership. The emphasis on field experience and construction support indicates a practical, hands-on approach to civil engineering design management.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or a related field from an accredited institution.

• Potential for advanced degrees or professional certifications that enhance specialized knowledge. Experience:

• Minimum of six (6) years of progressive experience in civil engineering design and project management.

• Demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education will be considered.

• Preferred: 10+ years of relevant experience, with a strong track record in infrastructure design projects. Required Skills:

• Proficiency in Civil Design principles and application in infrastructure projects.

• Strong technical expertise in Hydrologic and Hydraulic Modeling.

• Advanced skills in AutoCAD Civil 3D for design and drafting.

• Valid driver's license required for site visits and field operations.

• Experience in conceptual layout design and development of engineering calculations.

• Ability to perform quantity and cost estimations accurately. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with Bentley Microstation design software.

• EIT (Engineer-in-Training) Certification is strongly preferred.

• Professional Engineer (PE) license is highly preferred, demonstrating advanced technical competency and licensure.

• Specific experience in the design of dams is a significant advantage.

• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment, fostering collaboration and shared success.

• A positive attitude and strong initiative for continuous learning and professional excellence.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills for effective stakeholder engagement and reporting.

📝 Enhancement Note: The preferred qualifications, particularly the PE license and dam design experience, indicate that candidates with these attributes will be highly competitive. The emphasis on AutoCAD Civil 3D is a key technical requirement.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 diverse civil engineering design projects, demonstrating a progression of complexity and responsibility.

• Include detailed case studies of projects involving dams, water/wastewater systems, or complex site development, highlighting your specific contributions and design methodologies.

• Present examples of hydrologic and hydraulic modeling reports, emphasizing the inputs, analysis, and outputs that informed design decisions.

• Provide visual evidence of design deliverables, such as detailed drawings (sections, plans, details) created using AutoCAD Civil 3D or Bentley Microstation.

• Include documentation of cost estimates and quantity take-offs for projects, demonstrating accuracy and efficiency in resource assessment. Process Documentation:

• Document a typical civil design workflow from conceptualization through to construction support, detailing key phases, decision points, and stakeholder involvement.

• Illustrate your approach to integrating civil designs with other disciplines (geotechnical, structural, mechanical, electrical), showcasing collaboration tools and review processes.

• Detail your experience with quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) processes in design, including peer reviews and adherence to project standards.

• Showcase examples of how you have adapted designs based on field conditions during construction support phases, demonstrating problem-solving and practical application.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio demonstrating hands-on design experience, proficiency in key software, and a clear understanding of the civil design lifecycle, including field implementation, will be critical for showcasing capabilities.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• The provided salary range for this Civil Design Manager position in Orange, California, is between $115,000 and $160,000 USD annually. This range is competitive for a management-level role in civil engineering within the Southern California market, reflecting the required experience, technical expertise, and responsibility associated with leading significant infrastructure projects. Benefits:

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans.

• Life Insurance and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) coverage.

• Disability Benefits (Short-term and Long-term).

• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) and various Leaves of Absence options.

• Access to Voluntary Benefits programs for personalized coverage.

• Employee Perks and exclusive discounts.

• Flexible Work Options and Well-being Resources to support work-life balance.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for confidential support.

• Business Travel Insurance for work-related travel.

• Service Recognition Awards to acknowledge long-term commitment and contributions.

• Robust Retirement Savings Plan (e.g., 401k) with potential company match.

• Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) for opportunities to invest in AECOM's growth. Working Hours:

• Standard full-time work hours are typically 40 hours per week.

• The hybrid work arrangement allows for flexibility in scheduling, with a combination of in-office collaboration and remote work, subject to project needs and team coordination.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is explicitly provided, indicating a focus on attracting experienced professionals. The extensive list of benefits underscores AECOM's commitment to employee well-being and comprehensive support.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: AECOM operates within the global infrastructure consulting sector, a critical industry focused on planning, designing, building, and managing infrastructure projects worldwide. This includes transportation, water, environment, energy, and buildings. The company plays a pivotal role in addressing complex global challenges and driving sustainable development.

Company Size: AECOM is a large, established corporation, being a Fortune 500 firm with over 50,000 employees globally. This scale offers significant resources, diverse project opportunities, and a broad network of expertise, while also implying structured processes and a corporate culture.

Founded: Founded in 1910, AECOM has a long-standing history and deep expertise in the infrastructure sector. This legacy suggests a company culture rooted in technical excellence, long-term client relationships, and a commitment to building lasting legacies.

Team Structure:

• The Geo-Civil team in AECOM's West Region, specifically in Orange, California, is likely composed of experienced civil engineers, designers, and potentially project managers specializing in sectors like dams, water/wastewater, and power.

• The reporting structure would typically involve a direct report to a higher-level manager or director within the Civil or Water business line, with the Civil Design Manager overseeing a team of junior and mid-level engineers.

• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, with this role requiring frequent interaction with geotechnical, structural, mechanical, and electrical engineering teams, as well as project managers, clients, and potentially construction personnel. Methodology:

• AECOM likely employs data-driven approaches to engineering design, utilizing advanced modeling and analysis tools to inform decisions and optimize project outcomes.

• Workflow planning and optimization are critical, with a focus on efficient project delivery, risk management, and adherence to best practices in civil engineering.

• Automation and efficiency practices are increasingly important in the industry, likely integrated into design processes through software tools and streamlined workflows to enhance productivity and accuracy.

Company Website: https://www.aecom.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's status as a global infrastructure leader implies a culture of high professionalism, technical rigor, and ambitious project execution. The company's long history suggests stability and a deep well of experience.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is classified as a "Manager" level within Civil Design, signifying a mid-to-senior career stage. It requires not only strong technical proficiency but also leadership capabilities, including the ability to mentor junior staff, manage design tasks, and contribute to project strategy. The scope includes contributing to significant regional projects and acting as a technical lead.

Reporting Structure: The Civil Design Manager will likely report to a Senior Civil Engineer, a Principal Engineer, or a Director within the Geo-Civil or Water business line. They will, in turn, manage and mentor a team of civil engineers and designers, guiding their technical development and task execution.

Operations Impact: The Civil Design Manager's impact is direct and substantial, influencing the technical integrity, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness of major infrastructure projects. Their design decisions directly affect public safety, environmental sustainability, and the long-term functionality of critical assets like dams and water treatment facilities. They are key in translating client needs into tangible, executable engineering solutions.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas like dam design, advanced hydraulics, or sustainable water management through advanced training, certifications, and challenging project assignments.

• Leadership Advancement: Progress into senior management roles such as Principal Civil Engineer, Technical Director, or Business Unit Lead, with increased responsibility for project portfolio management, client development, and strategic planning.

• Project Management: Transition into formal Project Management roles, leveraging design leadership experience to manage larger, more complex projects from inception to completion, including budget, schedule, and client relations.

• Cross-Disciplinary Expertise: Expand knowledge into related fields like geotechnical engineering, environmental engineering, or construction management through cross-functional project involvement and specialized training.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear path for both technical and managerial growth within a large, established infrastructure firm, with opportunities to lead impactful projects and develop specialized expertise.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The position is designated as "Hybrid," indicating a blend of in-office work and remote flexibility. This suggests an office environment designed for collaboration, client meetings, and access to shared resources, while also allowing for focused work from a remote location.

Office Location(s): The primary location is the AECOM office in Orange, California, specifically at 999 Town & Country. This offers a central base for local team collaboration and client engagement within the Southern California region.

Workspace Context:

• The office workspace is expected to be collaborative, facilitating team discussions, design reviews, and brainstorming sessions among civil engineers and cross-functional teams.

• Access to essential operations tools and technology, including high-performance computing for modeling, CAD software workstations, and reliable network infrastructure, will be provided.

• Opportunities for direct interaction with team members, project leads, and management will be readily available, fostering a connected and supportive work environment.

Work Schedule: The standard 40-hour work week applies, with the hybrid model offering flexibility. This schedule is conducive to managing complex design tasks, attending necessary site visits, and participating in client meetings, while allowing for personal work-life balance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model suggests a modern work environment that balances the need for in-person collaboration with the benefits of remote work flexibility, catering to the demands of complex engineering projects.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess foundational qualifications, experience level, and alignment with the role's core requirements.

• Technical Interview: A discussion focused on your civil engineering expertise, design methodologies, and proficiency with relevant software (AutoCAD Civil 3D, HEC-RAS, etc.). Expect questions on hydrologic/hydraulic modeling, dam design principles, and project challenges.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where you will present selected projects from your portfolio, detailing your role, design approach, challenges overcome, and project outcomes. This is a critical step to demonstrate practical application of skills.

• Manager/Team Interview: An opportunity to meet with the hiring manager and potential team members to assess cultural fit, leadership potential, mentoring approach, and collaboration style.

• Final Interview: May involve discussion with senior leadership to finalize assessment of suitability for the role and company.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 projects that best showcase your experience in dams, water/wastewater, and complex site development. Highlight your specific contributions, leadership roles, and impact.

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your design approach, the tools used, challenges faced, solutions implemented, and quantifiable results or outcomes. Emphasize your role as a designer and potential manager.

• Showcase Technical Depth: Be prepared to walk through design calculations, modeling outputs, and key drawings. Demonstrate your understanding of underlying principles and software capabilities.

• Highlight Collaboration and Mentorship: Include examples or discuss your approach to working with cross-functional teams and mentoring junior engineers. This is crucial for a Design Manager role.

• Prepare for Q&A: Anticipate questions about your design choices, problem-solving techniques, and how you handle project constraints or client feedback.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready for potential technical challenges or case studies that require you to outline a design approach for a hypothetical civil infrastructure problem, similar to projects within AECOM's portfolio.

• Practice articulating your thought process clearly and concisely, demonstrating your analytical skills and ability to think critically under pressure.

• Prepare to discuss how you would manage project timelines, resources, and potential risks within a design team setting.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process emphasizes practical demonstration of skills through a portfolio review, underscoring the importance of tangible evidence of past project success and technical capability.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• AutoCAD Civil 3D: Essential for 2D and 3D design, drafting, and documentation of civil infrastructure projects. Proficiency is expected for creating detailed site plans, grading, alignments, and utility layouts.

• Bentley Microstation: An alternative or complementary CAD platform used for design and drafting, often in large-scale infrastructure projects. Familiarity is a significant advantage.

• Hydrologic & Hydraulic (H&H) Modeling Software: Tools such as HEC-RAS, HEC-HMS, SWMM, or similar industry-standard software are critical for analyzing water flow, drainage, and flood risk.

• Geotechnical Software: While not directly operated, an understanding of how civil designs integrate with outputs from geotechnical analysis software is beneficial.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Microsoft Excel: For data analysis, quantity take-offs, cost estimations, and creating custom reports.

• Project Management Software: Experience with tools like Primavera P6 or Microsoft Project may be beneficial for understanding project timelines and resource allocation, though not directly used for design.

• Data Visualization Tools: Basic familiarity with tools that can present analytical findings visually for reports and presentations.

CRM & Automation:

• AECOM's Internal Systems: Familiarity with AECOM's proprietary project management and collaboration platforms, if applicable.

• Document Management Systems: Experience with systems for organizing and sharing project documentation and deliverables.

• Workflow Automation: Understanding of how design processes can be streamlined through automation within CAD software or scripting.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in AutoCAD Civil 3D and H&H modeling software is paramount. The role requires an understanding of how civil designs interface with other engineering disciplines and project management processes.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Technical Excellence: A strong commitment to delivering high-quality, technically sound engineering designs that meet or exceed industry standards and client expectations.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive environment where team members work together effectively, share knowledge, and contribute to collective success, particularly in cross-functional teams.

• Innovation & Problem-Solving: Encouraging creative thinking and proactive approaches to overcome design challenges, optimize solutions, and improve project outcomes.

• Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all professional dealings, ensuring honesty, accountability, and a commitment to client trust.

• Sustainability & Resilience: Integrating principles of environmental stewardship and long-term resilience into design solutions, contributing to a better world.

Collaboration Style:

• AECOM promotes a collaborative approach, expecting team members to actively engage with colleagues across disciplines, share expertise, and provide constructive feedback.

• The culture likely encourages open communication, regular design reviews, and a proactive stance in resolving interdisciplinary conflicts or integration challenges.

• Knowledge sharing is valued, with opportunities for team members to learn from each other's experiences and contribute to a collective pool of expertise through team meetings, technical forums, and mentorship.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's values emphasize technical rigor, collaborative problem-solving, and a commitment to sustainability, aligning with the expectations for a leadership role in civil design.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complex Project Integration: Effectively coordinating civil designs with intricate geotechnical, structural, and MEP requirements on large-scale infrastructure projects, requiring deep technical understanding and communication.

• Adapting to Evolving Regulations: Staying abreast of and incorporating changing environmental, safety, and building codes into design solutions, ensuring compliance and sustainability.

• Mentoring Diverse Skill Sets: Guiding junior engineers with varying levels of experience and technical backgrounds, fostering their development while ensuring project quality and deadlines.

• Balancing Field and Office Demands: Effectively managing time and responsibilities between office-based design work and necessary site inspections or construction support, especially with a hybrid work model.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Access to AECOM's extensive training programs, workshops, and external courses to deepen expertise in specialized areas like dam safety, advanced hydraulic modeling, or seismic design.

• Leadership Development Programs: Opportunities to enhance management, communication, and strategic planning skills through dedicated leadership training and mentorship.

• Professional Licensure Support: Encouragement and potential support for obtaining or maintaining Professional Engineer (PE) licensure, a key differentiator in the field.

• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Gaining broader project experience by working on diverse infrastructure types and collaborating with specialists from various engineering disciplines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents opportunities to tackle complex, high-impact projects and advance one's career through specialized technical training and leadership development within a global firm.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex civil infrastructure project you managed or significantly contributed to. What was your specific role, what challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them using your design expertise?" (Focus on demonstrating leadership, problem-solving, and technical depth).

• "How do you approach integrating civil designs with geotechnical and structural engineering requirements? Can you provide an example of a challenge you resolved through cross-disciplinary collaboration?" (Highlight your understanding of interdependencies and communication strategies).

• "Walk me through your process for conducting hydrologic and hydraulic modeling for a project, from data collection to final analysis and design recommendations." (Detail your methodology, software usage, and decision-making process). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about AECOM's work in the water and dams sector, and what interests you most about contributing to our projects in Orange, CA?" (Show research into the company's portfolio and regional focus).

• "How do you foster a collaborative and supportive environment for your team, especially when working on challenging projects with tight deadlines?" (Discuss your leadership and team-building approach).

• "How do you ensure the quality and accuracy of designs produced by your team, and how do you incorporate client feedback into the design process?" (Demonstrate your commitment to quality assurance and client satisfaction). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each project, use a clear narrative: Problem Statement -> Your Role/Approach -> Technical Solutions/Tools Used -> Challenges & Resolutions -> Key Outcomes/Impact.

• Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the success of your designs (e.g., improved capacity by X%, reduced flood risk, cost savings achieved).

• Visual Aids: Use clear, high-quality drawings, models, and charts to illustrate your design concepts and results. Be prepared to explain specific details within these visuals.

• Focus on Management Aspects: As a Design Manager, emphasize your leadership, mentoring, coordination efforts, and ability to manage design tasks effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to articulate their experience through structured case studies, demonstrating both technical prowess and leadership capabilities relevant to managing civil design projects.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Civil Design Manager position:

• Submit Your Application: Complete the online application form through the provided link on the AECOM careers portal.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your experience in civil design, particularly with dams, water/wastewater systems, and infrastructure projects. Emphasize your years of experience, technical skills (AutoCAD Civil 3D, H&H modeling), and any leadership or mentoring roles. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a selection of 3-5 key projects that best showcase your civil design expertise, leadership, and relevant sector experience. Be ready to present these with clear narratives and visual aids.

• Research AECOM: Familiarize yourself with AECOM's recent projects, values, and strategic focus, especially within their Water and Geo-Civil business lines. Understand their commitment to delivering a "better world."

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare to answer technical questions about civil design principles, modeling, and project management, as well as behavioral questions related to leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving. Rehearse your portfolio presentation.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

---