Deputy Design Director

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Deputy Design Director

Company: KBR, Inc.

Location: Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Design & Engineering Management (Infrastructure)

Date Posted: May 27, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and oversee the technical and engineering design for significant infrastructure projects, with a strong focus on the Victorian transport sector.

• Drive the development and implementation of collaborative, high-quality design solutions that meet client needs and exceed satisfaction levels.

• Manage complex project portfolios, ensuring adherence to stringent quality assurance, HSE, and compliance standards.

• Foster and embody a culture of innovation, collaboration, and commitment to KBR's values and policies.

• Develop and mentor design teams, enhancing their technical capabilities and fostering a high-performance environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a senior leadership position within KBR's Infrastructure Solutions business in Australia, specifically targeting the Victorian transport industry. The "Deputy Design Director" title, coupled with the extensive experience requirement and focus on managing large, complex projects, indicates a strategic role focused on both technical oversight and team leadership. The emphasis on client satisfaction, collaboration, and adherence to HSE/Quality policies suggests a strong operational and client-facing component, typical of senior roles in large engineering and consulting firms.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Provide expert technical and engineering input across the full project lifecycle, from conceptualization to detailed design and construction support.

• Manage and mentor multidisciplinary design teams, fostering professional development and ensuring effective team performance.

• Review and approve design deliverables, ensuring compliance with KBR's technical standards, client requirements, and relevant Australian codes and regulations.

• Collaborate closely with project managers, construction partners, and other stakeholders to ensure seamless integration of design with project execution.

• Proactively identify and mitigate design risks, offering innovative solutions to complex engineering challenges within the transport sector.

• Uphold and champion KBR's Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) policies and Quality Management System throughout all design activities.

• Drive client engagement, ensuring clear communication of design progress, technical solutions, and alignment with client expectations.

• Contribute to business development efforts by supporting proposal development and client relationship management.

• Stay abreast of industry best practices, emerging technologies, and regulatory changes impacting infrastructure and transport design in Victoria.

• Champion KBR's company culture and values, serving as a role model for ethical conduct, teamwork, and professional excellence.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities have been expanded to reflect the strategic and leadership nature of a Deputy Design Director. Emphasis is placed on the full project lifecycle, team leadership, risk management, and client engagement, which are critical for a role of this seniority in the infrastructure sector. The inclusion of championing HSE and Quality policies, as well as contributing to business development, further clarifies the scope of this leadership position.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (e.g., Civil, Structural, Transport, Mechanical) or a related technical discipline from a recognized institution.

Experience:

• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in engineering design and project management within the infrastructure sector.

• Proven track record in managing large-scale, complex infrastructure projects, particularly within the Victorian transport industry (e.g., roads, rail, public transport).

Required Skills:

• Technical Leadership: Expertise in engineering design principles and practices relevant to transport infrastructure.

• Project & Program Management: Proven ability to manage complex projects, including scope, schedule, budget, and risk.

• Stakeholder Management: Exceptional ability to engage, influence, and manage relationships with diverse stakeholders, including clients, government agencies, and contractors.

• Client Relationship Management: Strong focus on understanding and meeting client needs to achieve high levels of satisfaction.

• Team Development & Mentoring: Demonstrated experience in leading, motivating, and developing engineering teams.

• Quality Assurance & Compliance: In-depth knowledge of engineering quality assurance standards, compliance monitoring, and relevant Australian codes and standards.

• Written and Verbal Communication: Excellent communication skills for clear and persuasive articulation of technical concepts and project status.

• Problem-Solving: Ability to analyze complex technical challenges and develop innovative, practical solutions.

• Victorian Transport Industry Knowledge: Deep understanding of the specific challenges, opportunities, and regulatory landscape of the Victorian transport sector.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with KBR's specific project delivery methodologies and digital tools.

• Familiarity with sustainability principles and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) integration in infrastructure design.

• Experience in proposal writing and business development activities.

• Professional Engineering (PE) or Chartered Engineer (CEng) status.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications have been detailed to reflect a senior design leadership role. Specific emphasis is placed on deep expertise within the Victorian transport industry, which is a key requirement mentioned in the original description. The distinction between required and preferred skills helps candidates self-assess their suitability. The inclusion of Professional Engineering status as preferred adds a layer of industry recognition.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Leadership Case Studies: Examples demonstrating leadership in managing complex transport infrastructure design projects from inception to completion. Highlight your role in decision-making, team coordination, and problem resolution.

• Technical Design Excellence: Showcase examples of innovative and technically sound design solutions you have overseen or contributed to, emphasizing adherence to quality standards and client requirements.

• Stakeholder Engagement Strategies: Illustrate how you have successfully managed diverse stakeholder groups, including presenting technical information to non-technical audiences and resolving conflicts.

• Team Development & Process Improvement: Provide evidence of initiatives you've led to improve team performance, foster skill development, or streamline design processes.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Optimization: Demonstrate experience in designing, reviewing, and optimizing engineering design workflows to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and collaboration.

• Quality Assurance Protocols: Detail your approach to implementing and maintaining robust quality assurance processes for design deliverables, including review cycles and sign-off procedures.

• Risk Management Frameworks: Present examples of how you have identified, assessed, and mitigated technical and project risks within design projects.

• Collaboration Tools & Methodologies: Showcase familiarity and effective use of collaborative platforms and methodologies for design reviews, document control, and interdisciplinary coordination.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section is tailored to a design leadership role, focusing on demonstrating strategic oversight, technical acumen, and leadership capabilities through a portfolio. The emphasis is on showcasing process implementation and optimization within the design context, crucial for a Deputy Design Director.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

KBR, Inc. typically offers competitive compensation packages for senior roles. For a Deputy Design Director with 10+ years of experience in Melbourne, Australia, the estimated annual salary range is AUD $180,000 - $250,000. This range is based on industry benchmarks for senior engineering leadership positions in the Australian infrastructure sector, considering the specific demands of the Victorian transport industry and the company's reputation for industry-leading salaries.

Benefits:

• Industry Leading Salaries: Annual salary reviews ensure compensation remains competitive.

• Time in Lieu Programs: Opportunities to accrue time off for overtime worked.

• Flexible Work Arrangements: Options for flexible start/finish times, hybrid work (WFH), and flex time to support work-life balance.

• Project Financial Incentives: Potential for performance-based bonuses tied to project success.

• Structured Progression and Development Plans: Clear pathways for career advancement and continuous professional development.

• Paid Parental Leave: Support for new parents.

• Salary Packaging and Novated Leases: Opportunities for tax-effective salary arrangements.

• Diversity and Inclusion Support: Commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment.

Working Hours:

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

• Flexible work arrangements are available, allowing for adjustments to daily start and finish times, subject to project and team needs. Occasional overtime may be required to meet project deadlines, with provisions for time in lieu.

📝 Enhancement Note: A salary range has been estimated based on the role's seniority, location (Melbourne, Australia), and industry (infrastructure/transport). KBR's stated benefit of "Industry leading salaries" has been factored into this estimation. The provided benefits have been listed with brief explanations to enhance their appeal.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering, Construction, and Consulting Services, with a significant focus on Infrastructure Solutions and Defense. KBR operates globally, providing a wide array of services across various sectors.

Company Size: KBR, Inc. is a large enterprise, employing over 1200 people in Australia alone, and many more globally. This scale implies robust internal processes, diverse project opportunities, and a structured corporate environment.

Founded: KBR has a long history, tracing its roots back to 1901, indicating stability, extensive experience, and established market presence.

Team Structure:

• The Infrastructure Solutions business in Australia is substantial, with over 1200 employees. This role is part of a larger design and engineering function, likely reporting to a Design Director or similar senior leadership.

• The team structure emphasizes a "One Team" value, promoting genuine collaboration across disciplines and geographic locations.

Methodology:

• KBR emphasizes a collaborative approach to client partnerships, aiming for exceptional project outcomes.

• Data-driven decision-making and a focus on delivering sustainable and technology-enabled futures are core to their approach.

• The company promotes an open, inclusive organization where people are valued and cared for, fostering a supportive work environment.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context has been fleshed out using provided LinkedIn data and general knowledge of KBR as a global engineering firm. The emphasis is on how KBR's scale, history, and stated values would impact the work environment for a Deputy Design Director, particularly regarding collaboration and career opportunities within the Australian Infrastructure Solutions business.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior leadership position within KBR's design and engineering function. It is a crucial step for professionals aiming to move into executive design management or director-level roles within large infrastructure organizations. The responsibilities extend beyond technical oversight to include team development, strategic input, and client relationship management.

Reporting Structure: The Deputy Design Director will likely report to a Design Director or a senior executive within KBR's Infrastructure Solutions division in Australia. They will, in turn, lead teams of engineers, designers, and technical specialists. The role requires significant interaction with project managers, business development leads, and potentially senior client representatives.

Operations Impact: The Deputy Design Director plays a pivotal role in ensuring the technical integrity, quality, and successful delivery of major infrastructure projects. Their impact is directly linked to client satisfaction, project profitability, risk mitigation, and KBR's reputation as a leading engineering consultant. Effective design leadership contributes significantly to the sustainable and technological advancement of the regions KBR serves.

Growth Opportunities:

• Director-Level Advancement: Progression to Design Director, Head of Engineering, or similar senior leadership roles within KBR's Infrastructure Solutions business.

• Specialization & Expertise: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific transport modalities or advanced design technologies.

• Global Mobility: Potential to leverage experience for opportunities within KBR's international operations.

• Business Development & Client Relations: Develop stronger client relationships and contribute more significantly to KBR's strategic growth initiatives.

• Mentorship & Thought Leadership: Become a key mentor for emerging talent and a recognized leader in the Australian infrastructure design community.

📝 Enhancement Note: This analysis focuses on the career trajectory and impact of a Deputy Design Director, framing it within the context of a large, established engineering firm like KBR. The emphasis is on leadership progression, strategic contribution, and the broader impact of the role on both the company and the industry.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: KBR operates on a hybrid work model. While this role is based in Melbourne, the company promotes a blend of office-based collaboration and remote work flexibility. The Melbourne office is likely a modern, professional workspace designed to support collaborative team activities, client meetings, and focused individual work.

Office Location(s): The primary office for this role is located at Level 18, 180 Lonsdale St, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. This central CBD location offers excellent accessibility via public transport and proximity to key business and client hubs.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The office design likely incorporates open-plan areas, meeting rooms, and breakout spaces to facilitate teamwork and knowledge sharing among design and engineering professionals.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to state-of-the-art design software, BIM (Building Information Modeling) platforms, project management tools, and communication systems is expected.

• Team Interaction: Regular opportunities for face-to-face interaction with design teams, project managers, and other KBR professionals, fostering a strong sense of team cohesion and shared purpose.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week applies, with flexibility in daily start and finish times. The hybrid model allows for a balance between in-office collaboration and remote work, accommodating the need for focused design tasks and personal commitments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment details are inferred from the hybrid work status and office location provided, with an emphasis on how these aspects support the collaborative and technologically driven nature of a senior design role.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and application to assess alignment with the core requirements, particularly experience in the Victorian transport sector and leadership capabilities.

• Technical & Leadership Interview: A detailed discussion with senior members of the Infrastructure Solutions leadership team, focusing on your technical expertise, project management experience, and leadership philosophy. Be prepared to discuss complex design challenges you've overcome.

• Portfolio Presentation: A dedicated session where you will present selected case studies from your portfolio, demonstrating your impact on project success, team leadership, and client satisfaction in transport infrastructure.

• Cultural Fit Assessment: Interviews with potential team members and peers to evaluate your alignment with KBR's "One Team" culture, values, and collaborative approach.

• Final Interview: A meeting with a senior executive to discuss your overall fit for the role and strategic vision for the design function.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-4 of your most impactful projects that best represent your leadership in complex transport infrastructure design within a similar regulatory and client environment (e.g., Victoria).

• Focus on Impact: For each project, clearly articulate your specific role, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented, and the measurable outcomes (e.g., cost savings, schedule improvements, technical innovations, client satisfaction scores).

• Highlight Leadership: Emphasize your contributions to team development, stakeholder management, and process improvements. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your examples.

• Demonstrate Technical Depth: Be ready to discuss the technical aspects of your projects, showcasing your understanding of engineering principles and design best practices.

• Align with KBR Values: Frame your experiences and achievements in a way that reflects KBR's emphasis on collaboration, quality, HSE, and client satisfaction.

Challenge Preparation:

• Case Study Analysis: Prepare to discuss a hypothetical complex transport infrastructure design challenge. Focus on your systematic approach to problem-solving, stakeholder engagement, risk assessment, and solution development.

• Leadership Scenarios: Be ready to respond to questions about managing underperforming team members, resolving interdisciplinary conflicts, or navigating challenging client demands.

• Strategic Thinking: Consider how you would approach enhancing design quality, fostering innovation, or improving efficiency within KBR's existing framework.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview and portfolio review process has been detailed with specific advice relevant to a senior design leadership role in infrastructure. The emphasis on portfolio content, case study preparation, and leadership assessment aims to provide actionable guidance for candidates.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD & BIM Software: Proficiency with industry-standard software such as AutoCAD, Civil 3D, Revit, Navisworks, Bentley Systems suite (e.g., OpenRoads, MicroStation), and other relevant 3D modeling and design platforms.

• Project Management Software: Experience with tools like Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Asana, Jira, or similar for planning, scheduling, and tracking project progress.

• Collaboration Platforms: Familiarity with Microsoft Teams, Slack, SharePoint, or other integrated communication and document-sharing tools.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret data from project management systems, design software, and potentially specialized analytics tools to inform decision-making.

• Reporting Dashboards: Experience in creating and utilizing dashboards (e.g., using Excel, Tableau, Power BI) to track design progress, key performance indicators (KPIs), and project health.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design inputs feed into client management systems is beneficial.

• Workflow Automation Tools: Familiarity with or ability to leverage automation within design software or project management tools to streamline repetitive tasks and improve efficiency.

• Document Management Systems: Experience with enterprise-level document control systems (e.g., Aconex, Procore) for managing project documentation and ensuring version control.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section outlines the typical technology stack for a senior design professional in the infrastructure sector. The focus is on design software, project management tools, and collaborative platforms, reflecting the operational needs of the role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Collaboration ("One Team"): A core value driving a culture of genuine teamwork, open communication, and mutual support across all disciplines and levels.

• Integrity & Ethics: Commitment to upholding the highest standards of professional conduct, honesty, and ethical decision-making in all dealings.

• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and exceeding client expectations through exceptional service delivery and tailored solutions.

• Innovation & Excellence: A drive to continuously improve, embrace new technologies, and deliver high-quality, technically sound engineering outcomes.

• Health, Safety & Environment (HSE): An unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of employees, stakeholders, and the environment.

Collaboration Style:

• Interdisciplinary Synergy: Emphasis on seamless integration and communication between different engineering disciplines (civil, structural, transport, etc.), project managers, and construction teams.

• Proactive Communication: Encouragement of open dialogue, regular feedback, and transparent information sharing to preempt issues and foster alignment.

• Knowledge Sharing: A culture that values the sharing of expertise, lessons learned, and best practices to elevate the collective capability of the team.

• Constructive Feedback: An environment where feedback is welcomed and utilized as a tool for continuous improvement and professional growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: The team culture and values are derived directly from KBR's stated principles, with an emphasis on how these translate into the daily operations and collaborative style expected of a senior leader within the organization.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Complex Stakeholder Landscapes: Navigating the diverse and sometimes competing interests of government agencies, private clients, community groups, and contractors within the Victorian transport sector.

• Technical Complexity & Innovation: Staying ahead of evolving design technologies and methodologies while delivering technically challenging projects under tight deadlines and budget constraints.

• Team Dynamics & Development: Leading and motivating a diverse team, fostering a high-performance culture, and ensuring continuous skill development in a rapidly changing industry.

• Regulatory & Compliance Evolution: Adapting to new regulations, standards, and environmental requirements impacting infrastructure design and delivery in Australia.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design & Technology Training: Access to specialized courses and workshops on emerging design software, BIM advancements, and digital engineering tools.

• Leadership & Management Programs: Opportunities to participate in KBR's internal leadership development programs to enhance strategic thinking, executive presence, and management skills.

• Industry Conferences & Networking: Support for attending key industry events, conferences, and professional development forums to stay abreast of trends and build professional networks.

• Mentorship: Opportunities to be mentored by senior KBR leaders or to mentor emerging talent within the organization, fostering leadership growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges and growth opportunities are framed to be specific to a senior design leadership role in infrastructure, particularly within the Australian context, and are aligned with KBR's stated commitment to employee development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Strategy & Innovation: "How would you approach developing and implementing a design strategy for a major Victorian transport project to balance innovation with cost-effectiveness and regulatory compliance?" (Focus on your process for setting technical direction, evaluating new technologies, and ensuring project feasibility.)

• Stakeholder & Client Management: "Describe a time you managed a complex stakeholder group with conflicting interests on a major infrastructure project. What was your approach, and what was the outcome?" (Highlight your communication, negotiation, and conflict-resolution skills, emphasizing client satisfaction.)

• Problem-Solving & Risk Mitigation: "Walk us through a significant technical challenge you encountered in a past design project. What was your analytical process, the solution you implemented, and how did you mitigate associated risks?" (Demonstrate your systematic approach to problem-solving and risk management.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• Cultural Alignment: "KBR emphasizes a 'One Team' culture. How have you fostered collaboration and a shared sense of purpose within your previous design teams?" (Connect your leadership style to KBR's values and demonstrate your commitment to teamwork.)

• HSE & Quality Commitment: "How do you ensure that health, safety, and quality are paramount throughout the design process, from concept to detailed engineering?" (Showcase your understanding of and commitment to these critical operational aspects.)

• Impact & Vision: "What do you see as the biggest opportunities for innovation in Victorian transport infrastructure design over the next five years, and how would you position KBR to lead in these areas?" (Demonstrate strategic thinking and industry foresight.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure for Impact: Begin with a brief overview of your career and highlight your most relevant experience. For each case study, clearly state the project's objective, your role, the challenges, your strategic approach, the solutions implemented, and the measurable results.

• Quantify Achievements: Use data and metrics wherever possible to demonstrate the tangible impact of your leadership (e.g., percentage reduction in design errors, adherence to budget, schedule delivery improvements, client satisfaction ratings).

• Visual Aids: Utilize concise, visually appealing slides that highlight key aspects of your projects, not dense text. Use diagrams, photos, or renderings where appropriate.

• Engage and Converse: Present your portfolio as a conversation, not a lecture. Be prepared to answer in-depth questions about your decision-making processes, technical choices, and leadership style.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation guidance is tailored to the specific role and industry, focusing on strategy, leadership, and technical depth. The portfolio presentation strategy emphasizes clarity, impact, and alignment with KBR's values.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Deputy Design Director position:

• Submit Your Application: Apply directly through the KBR Careers portal using the provided link.

• Tailor Your Resume: Ensure your resume clearly highlights your extensive experience in the Victorian transport industry, your leadership of large-scale projects, and your proficiency in managing multidisciplinary teams. Use keywords from the job description such as "Infrastructure Design," "Project Management," "Stakeholder Management," and "Quality Assurance."

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a selection of 3-4 key projects that best showcase your capabilities in leading transport infrastructure design. Focus on demonstrating technical excellence, successful stakeholder engagement, and team development. Be ready to articulate the impact and outcomes of these projects.

• Research KBR: Familiarize yourself with KBR's Infrastructure Solutions business, their recent projects in Australia, and their company values, particularly the "One Team" approach and commitment to HSE.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare to discuss your experience using the STAR method and articulate your strategic vision for design leadership within KBR's context. Practice presenting your portfolio case studies concisely and effectively.

⚠️ 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.