Design Manager, Airport

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager, Airport

Company: AECOM

Location: Mississauga, Ontario, Canada

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Infrastructure Design Management / Project Management (Airport Operations)

Date Posted: 2026-09-22

Experience Level: 10+ years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and coordinate multi-disciplinary design standards for large-scale airport capital programs.

• Oversee comprehensive pre-construction services, including design planning, site development, permitting, and procurement support.

• Act as the primary client interface, providing technical leadership and subject matter expertise throughout all project phases.

• Manage design consultancy agreements, ensuring alignment with technical specifications, schedules, and budgets.

• Facilitate and coordinate timely design reviews with all stakeholders to enable efficient decision-making and ensure compliance.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is specifically tailored for managing the design aspects of major airport infrastructure projects, emphasizing a blend of technical design oversight, client relationship management, and complex stakeholder coordination within a large capital program context. The "newly created position" suggests an opportunity to shape processes and contribute significantly to a high-profile project.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the implementation and coordination of multi-disciplinary design standards, working in close collaboration with the main contractor to ensure cohesive project execution.

• Oversee all pre-construction services, including detailed design planning, site development strategies, permitting processes, and procurement support across all relevant design phases.

• Serve as the primary client interface throughout all project phases, providing critical technical leadership, expert guidance, and subject matter expertise in design development and execution.

• Manage design consultancy agreements meticulously, ensuring strict alignment with contract requirements, technical specifications, project schedules, and budgetary constraints.

• Facilitate structured design reviews and ensure the timely, coordinated input from all internal and external stakeholders to support efficient and informed decision-making processes.

• Oversee reviews conducted by external stakeholders, including airlines, regulatory agencies, and authorities having jurisdiction, to ensure all compliance and operational needs are met.

• Prepare and present comprehensive progress and performance reports to senior management and executive leadership, proactively highlighting key risks, opportunities, and strategic recommendations.

• Coordinate the client's design review and approval process across all project phases, ensuring a smooth and efficient transition from the development stage to the construction phase.

• Provide essential technical support to delivery teams, applying deep knowledge of design phases and facility requirements to inform construction planning and execution strategies.

• Lead and coordinate rigorous quality reviews to ensure all designs comply with program scope, technical requirements, and AECOM's quality standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a senior-level role requiring significant experience in managing complex design processes within the aviation sector. Emphasis on client interface, stakeholder management, and reporting to executive leadership indicates a strategic and client-facing component to the role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: University Degree required. A Licensed Architect or Engineer is mandatory.

Experience: Minimum of 8 years of experience in large capital programs in an engineering/design management position, with a specific focus on terminal renovation/improvement programs. Typically requires a minimum of 10 years of professional experience.

Required Skills:

• Proven ability to lead and coordinate multi-disciplinary design standards and processes.

• Expertise in overseeing pre-construction services, including design planning, site development, permitting, and procurement.

• Strong client interface and relationship management skills, with experience in providing technical leadership and subject matter expertise.

• Demonstrated experience in managing design consultancy agreements and ensuring contract compliance.

• Proficiency in facilitating and coordinating design reviews with diverse stakeholder groups.

• Experience in managing external stakeholder reviews, including regulatory agencies and authorities.

• Skilled in preparing and presenting progress and performance reports to senior management and executive leadership.

• Solid understanding of program development processes, including scope definition, cost estimation, scheduling, and risk analysis.

• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with a demonstrated ability to lead meetings and workshops.

• Strong technical expertise across all phases of project development.

• Proven ability to solve complex challenges through data analysis and informed decision-making. Preferred Skills:

• LEED and/or Envision certification.

• Relevant professional designation is considered an asset.

• Specialized experience in the design management of technology systems, including Building Management Systems (BMS), Life Safety Systems, Power Monitoring Systems, Passenger Boarding Bridges, Automated People Movers, and other building technology infrastructure.

• Proficient in AutoCAD and Revit.

• Experience with MicroStation, Civil 3D, and BIM software is considered an asset.

• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications.

• Demonstrated experience managing senior stakeholder relationships and delivering high-level strategic reporting.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a Licensed Architect or Engineer with extensive experience in airport terminal programs signifies a highly specialized and senior role. The preferred skills point towards a need for proficiency in modern design software and a deep understanding of airport technology systems, crucial for managing complex, modern airport infrastructure projects.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate successful management of complex design processes for large-scale capital projects, preferably in the aviation or infrastructure sector.

• Showcase examples of leading design coordination efforts across multiple disciplines and external agencies.

• Provide case studies of managing design consultancy agreements, highlighting adherence to scope, schedule, and budget.

• Include evidence of successful stakeholder engagement and facilitation of design reviews, demonstrating effective communication and consensus-building.

• Present examples of technical problem-solving and decision-making within design phases, ideally with quantifiable results. Process Documentation:

• Evidence of developing and implementing design standards and coordination protocols.

• Documentation of pre-construction service management, including permitting and procurement strategies.

• Examples of client reporting and executive-level presentation materials related to design progress and risks.

• Case studies illustrating the management of technology system design integration within airport facilities.

• Demonstrations of quality review processes applied to design deliverables.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role, a portfolio should not only showcase completed projects but also the candidate's strategic approach to managing design processes, client relationships, and complex technical challenges within large-scale infrastructure. Emphasis on process documentation and case studies demonstrating problem-solving and stakeholder management is critical.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: CAD $160,000 - $200,000 yearly.

Benefits:

• Medical, Dental, Vision coverage.

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

• Disability benefits.

• Paid time off and Leaves of Absence.

• Voluntary benefits options.

• Flexible work options (though this specific role is on-site).

• Well-being resources and Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

• Business travel insurance.

• Service recognition awards.

• Retirement savings plan.

• Employee stock purchase plan.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week (standard full-time). This position requires work on-site 5 days a week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range of CAD $160,000 - $200,000 annually is competitive for a senior Design Manager role in a major metropolitan area like Mississauga, especially within the specialized infrastructure and airport sector. This range reflects the extensive experience and specialized technical knowledge required. The comprehensive benefits package offered by AECOM is typical for a large, established engineering and consulting firm, covering health, financial security, and professional development.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Infrastructure Consulting and Engineering. AECOM operates globally, providing a wide range of services across sectors like transportation, buildings, environment, water, and energy. The company is known for its commitment to delivering complex, large-scale projects that have a tangible impact on communities.

Company Size: AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm with over 50,000 employees globally. This large size provides access to extensive resources, diverse expertise, and opportunities for international collaboration.

Founded: AECOM has a long history, evolving through mergers and acquisitions to become a leading global infrastructure firm. This extensive experience translates into a deep understanding of project lifecycles and industry best practices.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager will likely be part of the Buildings & Places (B&P) business line, specifically focusing on airport projects.

• The team structure would involve close collaboration with other design disciplines (e.g., civil, structural, MEP), project managers, construction teams, and client representatives.

• Reporting will likely be to a senior director or vice president within the B&P or Aviation sector leadership. Methodology:

• AECOM emphasizes a data-driven approach, leveraging deep technical expertise and advanced digital tools for project planning, design, and execution.

• Workflow optimization and process improvement are core to their project delivery, aiming for efficiency, sustainability, and resilience.

• The company fosters a culture of innovation, encouraging the adoption of new technologies and methodologies to solve complex infrastructure challenges.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's culture is characterized by its global reach, commitment to impactful projects, and a strong emphasis on technical excellence and innovation. For operations professionals, this means working within a structured, resource-rich environment with opportunities to contribute to world-class infrastructure projects. The company's size and industry position suggest a professional and collaborative work environment with clear career progression paths.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is at a senior management level, demanding significant expertise in design management within the airport infrastructure domain. It requires leadership in coordinating complex, multi-disciplinary design efforts, managing client relationships, and contributing to strategic project planning. The scope includes oversight of pre-construction services and ensuring design compliance throughout the project lifecycle.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will likely report to a Director or Vice President within AECOM's Buildings & Places or Aviation division. They will manage and coordinate design consultants and liaise directly with the client's project leadership and stakeholders.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's work directly influences the success of a major airport capital program. Their ability to ensure efficient, compliant, and innovative design directly impacts project timelines, budgets, operational efficiency, passenger experience, and long-term sustainability of the airport infrastructure. They play a crucial role in translating client vision into tangible, constructible designs.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific airport design technologies (e.g., BMS, APMs) or project delivery methodologies.

• Leadership Advancement: Progress to Program Director roles, overseeing larger and more complex infrastructure portfolios.

• Cross-Sector Experience: Transition to managing design for other large-scale infrastructure projects within AECOM's diverse business lines.

• Global Mobility: Opportunities to work on international projects leveraging AECOM's global presence.

• Professional Development: Access to AECOM's extensive training programs, certifications (e.g., LEED, PMP), and mentorship opportunities.

📝 Enhancement Note: This Design Manager position represents a significant step in an infrastructure or engineering career. The role offers substantial impact and clear pathways for advancement, both in terms of technical leadership and overall program management, within a leading global firm.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based on-site at AECOM's Mississauga office, which serves as a hub for project teams. This environment is expected to be professional, collaborative, and equipped with the necessary tools for design and project management.

Office Location(s): The primary work location is AECOM's office at 5090 Explorer Drive, Mississauga, Ontario. This location is within a business park area, likely offering good access to transportation routes and amenities.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The office likely fosters a team-oriented atmosphere, with ample opportunities for interaction with fellow design professionals, project managers, and client representatives.

• Tools and Technology: Access to AECOM's standard software suite, including advanced BIM, CAD, and project management tools, will be available.

• Team Interaction: Regular team meetings, design workshops, and cross-functional collaboration sessions will be integral to the daily workflow. The on-site nature ensures direct engagement with colleagues and project teams.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday. While the role is on-site, AECOM may offer some flexibility in daily start/end times, but core project needs and client demands will dictate the working hours required to meet deadlines and project milestones.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement underscores the collaborative and hands-on nature of this role, emphasizing direct team interaction and access to office resources critical for managing complex airport design projects.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or a recruiter will review applications and conduct a preliminary screening call to assess basic qualifications and cultural fit.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A more in-depth interview with the hiring manager to discuss experience, technical skills, and alignment with the role's responsibilities. This may include behavioral questions.

• Technical Assessment/Case Study: Candidates may be asked to present a portfolio showcasing relevant airport design projects or to complete a case study related to design management challenges. This will assess problem-solving abilities and technical depth.

• Panel Interview: A session with key stakeholders, potentially including other senior managers, technical leads, or client representatives, to evaluate broader fit and strategic thinking.

• Final Interview/Offer: Discussion with senior leadership, followed by a formal offer.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Focus on 2-3 of your most relevant airport design or large capital program projects. Highlight your specific contributions and leadership.

• Process Over Product: For each project, clearly articulate the design challenges, your strategic approach to overcoming them, the processes you implemented (e.g., design coordination, stakeholder management), and the quantifiable outcomes.

• Showcase Technical Proficiency: Include examples of your work with AutoCAD, Revit, and BIM software, demonstrating your ability to manage complex technical documentation.

• Quantify Impact: Use metrics to illustrate project success – e.g., adherence to budget/schedule, efficiency gains from design optimizations, stakeholder satisfaction scores.

• Prepare for Questions: Be ready to discuss your decision-making process, how you managed conflicting stakeholder needs, and how you ensured design compliance.

Challenge Preparation:

• Anticipate Design Problems: Prepare for questions about how you would handle common airport design challenges (e.g., integrating new technology, meeting stringent security requirements, optimizing passenger flow).

• Stakeholder Scenarios: Practice articulating how you would manage difficult stakeholder negotiations or resolve design disputes.

• Process Improvement: Be ready to discuss how you would improve design processes for efficiency and quality. Understand AECOM's likely focus on sustainability (LEED/Envision) and technology integration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily scrutinize a candidate's ability to manage complex design projects in a high-stakes environment. A well-prepared portfolio that clearly demonstrates strategic thinking, technical expertise, and successful stakeholder management is crucial for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency in AutoCAD and Revit is required.

• BIM Software: Experience with BIM software is considered an asset, crucial for managing complex 3D models and interdisciplinary coordination.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with tools for scheduling, cost tracking, and document management (e.g., Primavera P6, MS Project, Procore) is likely expected.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Strong working knowledge of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook is essential for reporting, communication, and data analysis.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Tools for data analysis to support design decisions and performance reporting. This could include advanced Excel functions, business intelligence tools, or specialized engineering analysis software.

• Familiarity with creating dashboards and visual reports to communicate project status and key metrics to stakeholders. CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design data integrates with broader project management and client relationship systems is beneficial.

• Experience with workflow automation tools for design review processes or document management could be an advantage.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on AutoCAD, Revit, and BIM software highlights the technical demands of the role. Proficiency in these tools is fundamental for executing design management tasks effectively in modern infrastructure projects. Familiarity with broader project management and data analysis tools will enhance a candidate's effectiveness.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity: Upholding ethical standards in all design and management activities.

• Excellence: Striving for the highest quality in design, project delivery, and client service.

• Innovation: Encouraging creative solutions and the adoption of new technologies to overcome challenges.

• Collaboration: Fostering a team-oriented environment where diverse perspectives are valued and integrated.

• Sustainability: Commitment to designing environmentally responsible and resilient infrastructure, as evidenced by LEED and Envision certifications.

• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and exceeding client expectations through effective communication and delivery.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Strong emphasis on working collaboratively across all design disciplines (architecture, engineering, technology) and with construction and project management teams.

• Proactive Communication: Open and regular communication with internal teams, clients, and external stakeholders to ensure alignment and address issues promptly.

• Data-Driven Decision-Making: Using data and technical analysis to inform design choices and project strategies.

• Mentorship and Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of expertise and best practices within the team to foster continuous learning and development.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's values align with typical high-performing engineering and consulting firms, emphasizing quality, innovation, and client satisfaction. For operations professionals, this means a culture that rewards technical expertise, collaborative problem-solving, and a commitment to delivering impactful projects.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complexity of Airport Design: Managing the intricate integration of diverse systems (passenger flow, security, technology, MEP, structural) within a single, complex facility.

• Stakeholder Management: Balancing the needs and expectations of numerous stakeholders, including airlines, regulatory bodies, airport authorities, and the public.

• Fast-Paced Project Environment: Working under pressure to meet demanding project schedules and budgets for large capital programs.

• Technological Integration: Staying abreast of and integrating rapidly evolving airport technologies (e.g., AI, automation, advanced security systems).

• Regulatory Compliance: Navigating stringent aviation regulations and ensuring designs meet all compliance requirements.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Technology Training: Access to training on the latest BIM, CAD, and simulation software.

• Project Management Certifications: Support for obtaining or maintaining certifications like PMP, LEED AP, or Envision SP.

• Industry Conferences and Seminars: Opportunities to attend aviation and infrastructure industry events to stay current with trends and network.

• Mentorship Programs: Guidance from senior leaders within AECOM's extensive network.

• Specialized Technical Courses: Development in areas such as airport planning, sustainable design, or specific building systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are inherent to large-scale airport development. AECOM's commitment to learning and development provides ample opportunities for professionals to grow their expertise and advance their careers by tackling these complex challenges.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you managed a complex multi-disciplinary design for a large infrastructure project. What were the key challenges, and how did you ensure successful coordination and delivery?" (Focus on process, problem-solving, and outcomes).

• "How do you approach stakeholder engagement when dealing with diverse groups (e.g., airlines, regulators, internal teams) who may have conflicting priorities?" (Highlight communication, negotiation, and consensus-building skills).

• "Walk me through your process for conducting a design review, from identifying potential issues to ensuring resolutions are implemented." (Demonstrate your systematic approach to quality assurance and risk mitigation).

• "How do you stay current with emerging technologies in airport design and infrastructure?" (Showcase your commitment to continuous learning and innovation). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about AECOM and this specific Design Manager role within our airport projects?" (Research AECOM's recent airport projects and values).

• "How do you align your work with company values like sustainability and innovation?" (Provide specific examples from your experience).

• "Describe your experience working in a large, matrixed organization like AECOM." (Discuss your ability to navigate complex organizational structures). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly define the problem, your proposed solution (design approach), your role and actions, and the results achieved. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) implicitly.

• Highlight Key Deliverables: Be prepared to show examples of design drawings, BIM models, coordination reports, or stakeholder communication plans.

• Quantify Your Impact: Emphasize measurable achievements, such as cost savings, schedule adherence, or improvements in operational efficiency.

• Focus on Design Management: Clearly articulate your leadership in managing the design process, not just technical execution. Explain how you managed risks, budgets, and timelines.

• Tailor to AECOM: Connect your experience and portfolio examples to AECOM's known projects and their focus on sustainability and advanced technology.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating strategic thinking, robust process management, strong communication, and a deep understanding of airport infrastructure design complexities. A candidate's ability to articulate their past successes with quantifiable results and a clear understanding of AECOM's operational context will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the AECOM careers portal via the provided link.

• Portfolio Customization: Curate your portfolio to specifically highlight your experience in airport design, terminal renovations, and large capital programs. Emphasize projects where you managed multi-disciplinary design coordination and stakeholder engagement.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly outlines your years of experience in design management, your relevant qualifications (Licensed Architect/Engineer), proficiency in AutoCAD/Revit, and specific experience with airport technology systems and pre-construction services. Use keywords from the job description.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method, focusing on your leadership in design management, problem-solving skills, and stakeholder communication. Prepare specific examples for potential case study questions.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research AECOM's recent airport projects, their approach to sustainability (LEED/Envision), and their company values. Understand their role as a global infrastructure leader.

⚠️ 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.

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