Design Manager, Airport

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager, Airport

Company: AECOM

Location: Mississauga, Ontario, Canada

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Infrastructure Design Management (Airport Operations)

Date Posted: 2026-09-21

Experience Level: 10+ years

Remote Status: On-Site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the implementation and coordination of multi-disciplinary design standards for complex airport infrastructure projects, collaborating closely with main contractors and design consultants.

• Oversee all pre-construction services, encompassing design planning, site development, permitting, and procurement support across all project phases to ensure a cohesive project foundation.

• Act as the primary client interface, providing technical leadership and subject matter expertise in design development to ensure project vision and requirements are met.

• Manage design consultancy agreements, ensuring strict adherence to contract requirements, technical specifications, schedules, and budgets.

• Facilitate comprehensive design reviews and coordinate timely input from all stakeholders, including airlines, regulatory agencies, and authorities, to enable efficient decision-making and project progression.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within AECOM's Buildings & Places business line, focusing on airport infrastructure. The "Design Manager, Airport" title, coupled with responsibilities like leading design standards and coordinating with contractors, strongly indicates a Revenue Operations or GTM-adjacent role, focusing on the operationalization of design strategy and ensuring seamless project delivery within the broader infrastructure consulting context. The emphasis on client interface and stakeholder management highlights a critical GTM enabler function.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the implementation and coordination of multi-disciplinary design standards, ensuring alignment with project objectives and contractual obligations, working in close collaboration with the main contractor.

• Oversee all pre-construction services, including detailed design planning, site development strategy, permitting acquisition, and procurement support across all design phases to establish a robust project framework.

• Serve as the primary client interface throughout all project phases, providing technical leadership, expert guidance, and subject matter expertise in design development to ensure project requirements are accurately translated into design solutions.

• Manage design consultancy agreements diligently, ensuring alignment with contract requirements related to technical specifications, project schedules, and budgetary constraints.

• Facilitate comprehensive design reviews and ensure timely, coordinated input from all internal and external stakeholders to support efficient decision-making and mitigate project risks.

• Oversee reviews conducted by external stakeholders, including airlines, regulatory agencies, and authorities having jurisdiction, ensuring compliance and stakeholder buy-in.

• Prepare and present detailed 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 phases, ensuring a smooth and efficient transition from the development stage through to construction execution.

• Provide critical technical support to delivery teams, applying in-depth knowledge of design phases and facility requirements to inform construction planning, execution, and quality assurance.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities outline a critical role in managing the design lifecycle of large-scale airport projects. For operations professionals, this translates to understanding how design decisions impact operational efficiency, cost, and timelines. The emphasis on client interface, stakeholder management, and reporting aligns with GTM functions that require strong communication and strategic alignment.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: University Degree in Engineering or Architecture.

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

Required Skills:

• Proven experience in design management for large-scale capital programs, particularly within airport or complex facility environments.

• Strong understanding of engineering and architectural principles as applied to infrastructure projects.

• Demonstrated ability to lead multi-disciplinary design coordination activities and facilitate effective stakeholder reviews.

• Experience in client interface and relationship management, serving as a primary technical point of contact.

• Proficiency in managing design consultancy agreements, ensuring compliance with technical specifications, schedules, and budgets.

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

• Ability to provide technical support to delivery teams and inform construction planning based on design knowledge.

• Experience in leading quality reviews to ensure design compliance. Preferred Skills:

• Relevant professional designation (e.g., P.Eng., OAA, LEED AP) 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 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

• 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 with diverse and large stakeholder groups.

• Strong technical expertise across all phases of project development, with a track record of solving complex challenges through data analysis and informed decision-making.

• Demonstrated experience managing senior stakeholder relationships and delivering high-level strategic reporting to support effective executive decision-making.

📝 Enhancement Note: The preferred skills highlight a need for technical proficiency in design software (AutoCAD, Revit, BIM) and specialized airport technology systems. For operations professionals, this implies an understanding of how these technologies integrate into the overall project delivery and operational workflow, crucial for strategic planning and implementation. The emphasis on data analysis and strategic reporting further reinforces the alignment with operations roles focused on performance and decision support.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrable examples of leading and coordinating complex, multi-disciplinary design processes for large-scale infrastructure projects.

• Case studies showcasing successful management of design consultancy agreements, highlighting adherence to technical specifications, schedules, and budgets.

• Evidence of effective client interface and stakeholder engagement throughout various project phases, with examples of managing diverse groups.

• Documentation of design review processes, including how input was consolidated, issues were resolved, and decisions were facilitated.

• Examples of quality assurance processes implemented to ensure design compliance with program scope and technical requirements. Process Documentation:

• Workflow diagrams or descriptions illustrating the design planning, development, and review phases for major capital projects.

• Documentation of processes used for managing permitting and procurement support in a complex regulatory environment.

• Examples of reporting structures and formats used for communicating design progress, risks, and opportunities to senior leadership.

• Process outlines for coordinating client reviews and approvals across multiple project stages, from concept to construction.

📝 Enhancement Note: For operations professionals, a portfolio should emphasize process optimization, efficiency gains, and successful cross-functional collaboration. Highlighting how design processes were streamlined, risks were mitigated through structured reviews, and stakeholder alignment was achieved will be key. Quantifiable results in terms of time saved, cost efficiencies, or improved design quality are highly valued.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: CAD $160,000 - $200,000 per year.

Explanation of Range: This range is based on the provided salary data for a Design Manager in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada, for a role requiring 10+ years of experience and specialized technical skills in a senior capacity. This aligns with industry benchmarks for senior engineering and design management positions within large infrastructure consulting firms, considering the complexity and responsibility of airport projects.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans to support employee health and well-being.

• Income Protection: Life insurance and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) benefits, alongside Disability benefits for long-term security.

• Work-Life Balance Support: Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) and Leaves of Absence policies to promote employee well-being and personal time.

• Flexible Options & Perks: Access to Voluntary benefits, Flexible work options, and Well-being resources to support diverse employee needs.

• Employee Support Programs: Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for confidential counseling and support, and Service Recognition Awards to acknowledge long-term contributions.

• Financial Security & Growth: Retirement Savings Plan and Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) to support long-term financial planning and employee ownership.

• Business Travel Insurance: Coverage for employees undertaking business travel.

Working Hours: Standard full-time hours, likely around 40 hours per week, with an on-site work requirement 5 days a week. Flexibility may be expected based on project demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is a key indicator of the role's seniority and impact. The comprehensive benefits package offered by AECOM is typical for large, established corporations and signals a commitment to employee welfare, which can be a significant factor for operations professionals seeking stable, long-term career opportunities.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Infrastructure Consulting & Engineering. AECOM operates globally, providing a wide range of professional services across transportation, buildings, environment, water, and energy sectors. The company's focus on "delivering a better world" emphasizes sustainability, innovation, and long-term impact.

Company Size: AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm with over 50,000 employees globally, indicating a large, well-established organization with extensive resources and a broad project portfolio.

Founded: AECOM has a long history in the infrastructure sector, with its origins tracing back to the 1930s. This longevity suggests stability, deep industry expertise, and a proven track record.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager will likely be part of the Buildings & Places business line, specifically within a dedicated airport or aviation sector team.

• The team structure is expected to be hierarchical, with the Design Manager reporting to a senior project director or program manager.

• Collaboration will be extensive with main contractors, design consultants, project managers, technical specialists, and client representatives. Methodology:

• AECOM emphasizes a data-driven approach to project delivery, leveraging advanced analytics and digital tools to inform decision-making and optimize outcomes.

• Workflow planning and optimization are critical, particularly in managing complex design processes and ensuring seamless integration between different project phases and disciplines.

• Automation and efficiency practices are likely employed to streamline project management, reporting, and design coordination, especially in a large organization with standardized processes.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's global presence and vast project portfolio provide operations professionals with opportunities to work on impactful projects and gain exposure to diverse operational challenges. The company's stated commitment to a "better world" and its established history suggest a culture that values long-term vision, sustainability, and professional development, which are attractive to operations roles focused on strategic impact.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Senior Management role, requiring significant experience and leadership in design and project execution within the infrastructure sector. The Design Manager is responsible for critical project phases and client-facing activities, indicating a high level of autonomy and decision-making authority.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will report to a senior leader within the project or business unit, such as a Program Director, Project Director, or a senior executive overseeing the aviation portfolio. They will, in turn, manage and coordinate the efforts of design consultants and potentially junior design staff.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's role is pivotal in ensuring that the airport's design aligns with operational requirements, client expectations, and long-term strategic goals. Their effectiveness directly influences project timelines, budget adherence, and the ultimate functionality and passenger experience of the airport infrastructure. This role bridges technical design and operational viability, a critical GTM function.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to advance into Program Management, Project Director roles, or leadership positions within AECOM's Buildings & Places sector.

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in airport design, technology integration, or sustainable infrastructure development.

• Cross-Disciplinary Experience: Gain exposure to other AECOM business lines (e.g., Transportation, Environment) through large, integrated projects.

• Global Mobility: Opportunities to work on international projects given AECOM's global footprint.

📝 Enhancement Note: For operations professionals, this role represents a significant step into managing the strategic execution of large-scale projects. Growth opportunities are substantial, particularly for those who can demonstrate strong leadership, strategic thinking, and the ability to translate complex technical requirements into actionable operational plans. The impact on revenue is indirect but significant, through successful project delivery and client satisfaction.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site position, requiring the Design Manager to work from AECOM's Mississauga office. The office environment is likely professional and collaborative, supporting a large workforce of engineers, designers, and project management professionals.

Office Location(s): The primary work location is 5090 Explorer Drive, Mississauga, Ontario. This location is situated in a business park area, with accessibility via major roadways and potentially public transportation.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely be a combination of individual office space and shared collaborative areas, designed to facilitate team meetings and project discussions.

• Access to necessary design software (AutoCAD, Revit, BIM tools) and standard office technology will be provided.

• Regular interaction with cross-functional teams, including project managers, engineers, and client representatives, will be a key aspect of the daily work environment.

Work Schedule: The role is full-time, likely involving standard business hours (e.g., 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM). However, given the nature of large capital projects, occasional extended hours or weekend work may be necessary to meet critical deadlines or address urgent project issues.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement emphasizes the need for strong in-person collaboration and project oversight. Operations professionals will need to be comfortable with a structured work environment and understand how physical presence facilitates effective communication and decision-making in complex project settings.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or Talent Acquisition will likely conduct an initial screening to assess basic qualifications and fit.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A detailed discussion with the hiring manager focusing on experience, technical skills, leadership capabilities, and suitability for the Design Manager role.

• Technical/Panel Interview: This may involve technical challenges, case studies, or interviews with senior stakeholders (e.g., Director of Aviation, senior project managers) to evaluate design management expertise, problem-solving skills, and strategic thinking.

• Portfolio Review: Candidates may be asked to present specific examples from their portfolio, showcasing their project experience, design management approach, and ability to deliver results.

• Final Interview/Offer: A final discussion, potentially with senior leadership, leading to an offer.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Design Leadership: Highlight instances where you led multi-disciplinary design teams, managed consultants, and ensured design integrity.

• Demonstrate Process Management: Present case studies that illustrate your ability to manage design phases, integrate stakeholder feedback, and navigate permitting/procurement processes.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, use metrics to demonstrate achievements such as cost savings, schedule adherence, or improvements in design quality and functionality.

• Client & Stakeholder Focus: Include examples of successful client communication, stakeholder engagement, and conflict resolution in design contexts.

• Technical Proficiency: Be prepared to discuss your experience with relevant design software (AutoCAD, Revit, BIM) and specialized airport technologies.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss how you would approach the design management of a complex airport terminal renovation, including key challenges, stakeholders, and mitigation strategies.

• Prepare to analyze a hypothetical design problem and propose solutions, demonstrating your technical expertise and problem-solving methodology.

• Practice articulating your strategic approach to ensuring design compliance with program scope, technical requirements, and client expectations.

📝 Enhancement Note: For operations candidates, the portfolio should not only showcase technical design management but also highlight how design choices impacted operational efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and project delivery timelines. Emphasize your role in bridging technical design with functional operations and strategic business goals.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design Software: AutoCAD, Revit, BIM software (e.g., Navisworks, BIM 360), MicroStation, Civil 3D. Proficiency in these is crucial for understanding and managing design deliverables.

• Project Management Software: Likely to use AECOM's internal project management systems, potentially including tools for scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking.

• Collaboration Platforms: Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, and other internal communication and document management systems.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Microsoft Office Suite: Advanced proficiency in Excel for data analysis, financial modeling, and reporting; PowerPoint for presentations.

• Data Analysis Tools: While not explicitly stated, experience with data analysis for design review and performance tracking is preferred.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM (Client Relationship Management): AECOM likely uses a CRM system for managing client interactions and business development, though direct use by the Design Manager may be limited.

• Automation: Experience with process automation tools or techniques that can streamline design review, reporting, or procurement processes would be beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong understanding of BIM and its integration into project workflows is essential. For operations professionals, this means understanding how BIM data can inform construction, facility management, and operational planning. Proficiency in Excel for data analysis and reporting is a baseline requirement for any senior operations role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity: Upholding ethical standards in all dealings with clients, contractors, and internal teams.

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

• Innovation: Encouraging creative problem-solving and the adoption of new technologies and methodologies to enhance design and project delivery.

• Excellence: A commitment to delivering high-quality work that meets or exceeds client expectations and industry standards.

• Sustainability: Prioritizing environmentally responsible design and construction practices to contribute to a better world.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively working with project managers, engineers, construction teams, and client representatives to ensure seamless project execution.

• Proactive Communication: Maintaining open and transparent communication channels with all stakeholders to manage expectations and resolve issues promptly.

• Knowledge Sharing: Participating in and contributing to AECOM's knowledge base, sharing best practices and lessons learned from projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's values emphasize a strong commitment to quality, collaboration, and ethical conduct. For operations roles, this translates to a focus on process adherence, stakeholder alignment, and contributing to the company's broader mission. Demonstrating how your operational approach aligns with these values will be crucial during the interview process.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Complex Stakeholder Needs: Balancing the diverse and sometimes conflicting requirements of clients, airlines, regulatory bodies, and contractors on large airport projects.

• Navigating Evolving Technologies: Keeping pace with advancements in airport technology (e.g., automation, passenger processing, security systems) and integrating them effectively into designs.

• Global Supply Chain & Procurement: Managing procurement for specialized airport components within a global supply chain, which can be subject to disruptions and lead times.

• Budgetary and Schedule Pressures: Delivering complex designs within stringent budget and timeline constraints, requiring meticulous planning and risk management.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Training: Access to AECOM's extensive training programs focusing on advanced design techniques, project management methodologies, and industry-specific knowledge (e.g., airport master planning, aviation security design).

• Professional Certifications: Support for obtaining or maintaining relevant professional certifications (e.g., P.Eng., PMP, LEED AP).

• Mentorship Programs: Opportunities to learn from experienced leaders within AECOM's global network.

• Exposure to Cutting-Edge Projects: Working on transformative infrastructure projects that push the boundaries of design and engineering.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical of large-scale infrastructure projects and offer significant opportunities for professional growth. Operations professionals can leverage these challenges by developing robust process frameworks, risk mitigation strategies, and stakeholder management plans that contribute to successful project outcomes.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to managing multi-disciplinary design coordination on a large-scale airport terminal renovation project. What are the key risks, and how would you mitigate them?" (Focus on process, risk management, stakeholder alignment)

• "How would you ensure that design decisions align with the operational needs and long-term strategic goals of an airport client, considering factors like passenger flow, security, and future expansion?" (Focus on GTM alignment, operational impact)

• "Walk me through a complex design challenge you faced in a previous role. How did you apply data analysis or specific methodologies to arrive at a solution, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on problem-solving, data-driven decisions, process improvement) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about AECOM's mission to 'deliver a better world,' and how do you see your role as Design Manager contributing to this?" (Focus on values alignment, strategic contribution)

• "Describe your experience working with diverse stakeholder groups in a project environment. How do you foster collaboration and manage conflicting priorities?" (Focus on collaboration, stakeholder management)

• "How do you stay current with advancements in airport design technology and best practices, and how would you integrate this knowledge into AECOM projects?" (Focus on continuous learning, innovation) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select 2-3 key projects that best demonstrate your design management leadership, complex problem-solving skills, and successful project delivery.

• For each project, clearly articulate the challenge, your role, the process you followed, the solutions you implemented, and the quantifiable results achieved (e.g., schedule adherence, budget savings, design quality improvements).

• Be prepared to discuss your experience with specific technologies (AutoCAD, Revit, BIM) and how they were leveraged in your projects.

• Emphasize your ability to manage client relationships and coordinate effectively with diverse stakeholder groups.

📝 Enhancement Note: When preparing for strategy questions, frame your answers through an operations lens. Highlight how your management of the design process contributes to operational efficiency, cost control, and successful client engagement, thereby impacting AECOM's revenue and reputation.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager, Airport position:

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

• Tailor your resume: Emphasize your experience in large capital programs, design management, airport infrastructure, and stakeholder engagement. Quantify achievements wherever possible, focusing on project delivery metrics.

• Prepare your portfolio: Curate 2-3 impactful case studies that showcase your leadership in design management, problem-solving skills, and ability to deliver complex projects on time and within budget. Be ready to present these with a focus on process, challenges, and outcomes.

• Research AECOM: Understand the company's mission, values, recent projects (especially in the aviation sector), and their commitment to sustainability and innovation. This will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate genuine interest.

• Practice interview responses: Prepare for behavioral and situational questions, focusing on your experience in design leadership, stakeholder management, and strategic decision-making. Be ready to articulate how your operational approach contributes to successful project delivery and client satisfaction.

⚠️ 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.