Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager

Company: AirTrunk

Location: Western Sydney, NSW, Australia

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Construction & Engineering Management

Date Posted: 2026-08-20

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the implementation of AirTrunk's cutting-edge design standards throughout the construction phase of hyperscale data centre projects.

• Serve as the primary on-site technical authority, ensuring design integrity and proactive resolution of complex engineering challenges across Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, and Architectural disciplines.

• Facilitate seamless collaboration between design teams, general contractors, consultants, vendors, and Owner Supplied Equipment (OSE) suppliers to maintain project momentum and quality.

• Champion a quality-first culture, driving rigorous design reviews, inspections, and compliance checks to meet AirTrunk's world-class standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is critical for ensuring the successful translation of complex data centre designs into physical infrastructure. The emphasis on being the "primary design representative on site" and "technical authority" highlights a senior, hands-on position requiring significant engineering acumen and on-site leadership. The role bridges the gap between the conceptual design and the practical execution, demanding strong problem-solving skills and a deep understanding of construction methodologies within the data centre context.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the implementation of AirTrunk's approved design specifications throughout the construction lifecycle, ensuring adherence to all project requirements.

• Act as the primary technical point of contact on-site, providing expert guidance and resolving design-related queries from contractors, consultants, and internal teams.

• Proactively identify, assess, and mitigate design-related risks that could impact project safety, quality, programme, or commercial objectives.

• Review and approve contractor shop drawings, technical submissions, and material selections to ensure compliance with AirTrunk's design philosophy and standards.

• Coordinate and manage multidisciplinary design interfaces, ensuring seamless integration of Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, Structural, and Architectural systems.

• Support Project Managers by providing technical input for value engineering exercises, constructability reviews, and commercial negotiations.

• Drive design quality through regular site inspections, ensuring installations align with approved documentation and AirTrunk's stringent quality benchmarks.

• Collaborate with Development, Technology, Design, and Operations teams to gather feedback and contribute to the continuous improvement of design standards and construction methodologies.

• Oversee the management and integration of Owner Supplied Equipment (OSE) and specialist systems, ensuring timely procurement and seamless installation.

• Support commissioning and handover processes by ensuring systems are installed according to design intent and assisting with the completion of design documentation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly delineate a role focused on the execution phase of large-scale construction projects. The emphasis on "technical authority," "risk mitigation," "multidisciplinary design interfaces," and "OSE integration" points to a need for a candidate with a broad engineering background and experience in complex project environments, specifically within mission-critical facilities like data centres. The inclusion of "continuous improvement" suggests a strategic element to the role, contributing to future design iterations.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, or Structural Engineering.

• Chartered Engineer status or active pursuit thereof is highly desirable. Experience:

• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience delivering major infrastructure, mission-critical facilities, or hyperscale data centre projects.

• Demonstrated experience managing design aspects during the construction phase of large-scale projects.

• Proven track record of successful project delivery within the data centre or similar high-specification construction industries. Required Skills:

• Design Management: Expertise in overseeing and managing design processes from initial concept through to construction completion and handover.

• Construction Technical Leadership: Ability to provide authoritative technical guidance and decision-making on-site across multiple engineering disciplines.

• Data Centre Infrastructure: Deep understanding of hyperscale data centre systems, including mechanical, electrical, cooling, power distribution, and building management systems.

• Multidisciplinary Coordination: Skill in coordinating complex interfaces between Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, Structural, and Architectural engineering disciplines.

• Stakeholder Management: Proven ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with diverse stakeholders including contractors, consultants, clients, and internal teams.

• Contractor & Consultant Management: Experience in managing the performance and deliverables of external contractors and design consultants.

• Commercial Acumen: Strong awareness of project economics, with the ability to balance programme timelines, budget constraints, and quality standards.

• Problem-Solving: Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills to address complex technical challenges encountered during construction.

Preferred Skills:

• BIM & Digital Engineering: Proficiency with Building Information Modeling (BIM) and modern digital engineering workflows.

• Owner Supplied Equipment (OSE) Management: Experience in the procurement, integration, and management of specialized equipment supplied by the owner.

• Commissioning & Operational Readiness: Familiarity with the testing, commissioning, and handover processes for critical facilities.

• Value Engineering: Experience in identifying cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality or functionality.

• Risk Management: Ability to identify, assess, and develop mitigation strategies for project risks.

• APAC Project Experience: Familiarity with construction regulations, practices, and market dynamics within the Asia Pacific region.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a Bachelor's degree in a relevant engineering field, coupled with 10+ years of experience in major infrastructure or data centre projects, positions this as a senior role. The emphasis on managing design "during construction" and specific experience with "hyperscale data centres" and "OSE" are key differentiators. The inclusion of "Chartered Engineer" as a desirable qualification underscores the technical depth expected.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a history of successfully managing design implementation on large-scale construction projects, ideally within mission-critical environments.

• Showcase examples of how you have resolved complex design issues on-site, detailing the problem, your approach, and the outcome.

• Provide evidence of your experience in coordinating multidisciplinary engineering systems and managing interfaces between various technical disciplines.

• Include case studies illustrating your involvement in value engineering, constructability reviews, and quality assurance processes.

• Highlight projects where you have managed contractor submissions, OSE integration, or supported commissioning activities. Process Documentation:

• Illustrate your approach to managing design changes, including governance, approval workflows, and documentation updates.

• Detail your methods for reviewing technical submissions, shop drawings, and material approvals from contractors and consultants.

• Showcase your process for identifying, assessing, and mitigating design-related risks throughout the construction phase.

• Provide examples of how you ensure installations comply with design intent and quality standards, including inspection and defect management processes.

• Outline your communication and collaboration processes for engaging with diverse stakeholders, including clients, contractors, and internal teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role like this, a portfolio should focus on tangible evidence of successful project delivery and technical leadership. Emphasis should be placed on complex problem-solving, stakeholder management during construction, and adherence to rigorous design and quality standards. Documented processes for design review, risk mitigation, and change management are crucial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for a Design Manager with 10+ years of experience in hyperscale data centre construction in Sydney, Australia, the estimated annual salary range is AUD $160,000 - $220,000. This range accounts for the senior nature of the role, the specialized industry, and the significant responsibilities involved.

• This estimation is derived from analysis of similar roles in the Sydney metropolitan area, considering factors such as experience level, project scale, and the demand for specialized engineering talent in the data centre sector. Benefits:

• Competitive salary package, reflecting the seniority and impact of the role.

• Opportunity to work on cutting-edge hyperscale data centre projects across the Asia Pacific region.

• Comprehensive health and wellness programs designed to support employee well-being.

• Generous leave entitlements, including annual leave and personal/carer's leave.

• Professional development opportunities, including training and support for chartership.

• Access to AirTrunk's "Grow@Hyperscale" development program.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses and incentives.

• A dynamic and collaborative work environment with a focus on innovation. Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours, typically around 40 hours per week.

• Flexibility may be required to accommodate project demands, site inspections, and critical deadlines, which is common in large-scale construction projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the senior level (10+ years experience) and location (Sydney, Australia) for a specialized role in hyperscale data centre construction, a robust salary and benefits package is expected. The estimated salary range is based on current market data for similar engineering management positions in the Sydney area, factoring in the critical nature of data centre infrastructure projects.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Technology / Data Centres / Infrastructure Development

Company Size: 500 - 1,000 Employees (as per LinkedIn data)

Founded: 2015

Company Description: AirTrunk is a leading hyperscale data centre provider in the Asia Pacific and Middle East region, focused on delivering scalable, sustainable, and efficient data centre solutions for the world's largest technology companies. They are known for their rapid expansion and innovative approach to data centre design and development.

Team Structure:

• The Site Design Manager will report to the Project Director, indicating a senior position within the project delivery hierarchy.

• Close collaboration is expected with various internal teams, including Development, Design, Technology, Commissioning, and Operations, as well as external General Contractors, consultants, and vendors.

• The role is integral to the project management office (PMO) structure, working alongside Project Managers to ensure design alignment with project goals. Methodology:

• AirTrunk emphasizes a "quality-first culture" and a "technology company" approach, suggesting a focus on data-driven decision-making and efficient processes.

• The company values "challenging the status quo," "collaborative problem-solving," and "continuous improvement," indicating an environment that encourages innovation and proactive engagement.

• Operations are underpinned by a commitment to sustainability and scalability, reflecting the nature of hyperscale data centre operations.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: AirTrunk's positioning as a rapidly growing, innovative hyperscale data centre company suggests a fast-paced, demanding, yet rewarding work environment. The culture likely values technical expertise, collaboration, and a forward-thinking approach to complex infrastructure challenges. The "Grow@Hyperscale" motto points to a strong emphasis on employee development and career progression within this specialized field.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior Management / Principal Engineer

• This role represents a senior position within the project delivery and engineering management domain. It requires a high degree of technical expertise, significant project experience, and the ability to lead and influence cross-functional teams. The responsibilities involve strategic oversight of design implementation during construction, making it a pivotal role in ensuring project success. Reporting Structure:

• The Site Design Manager reports directly to the Project Director, signifying a high level of responsibility and direct impact on project outcomes. This reporting line suggests direct involvement in strategic project decisions and a close working relationship with senior project leadership. Operations Impact:

• The Design Manager's role has a profound impact on the successful delivery of AirTrunk's hyperscale data centres. By ensuring design intent is maintained, technical issues are resolved efficiently, and quality standards are met, they directly contribute to the project's safety, timeline, budget, and ultimately, the operational reliability and efficiency of the data centres. Their work ensures that the physical infrastructure meets the demanding requirements of hyperscale clients and aligns with AirTrunk's innovative and sustainable design philosophy. Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in hyperscale data centre design, construction, and commissioning, potentially leading to Principal Design Manager or Chief Engineer roles.

• Project Leadership: Transition into broader project management roles or program management, overseeing multiple complex projects simultaneously.

• Global Mobility: Opportunities to work on AirTrunk's expanding portfolio of projects across the Asia Pacific and Middle East regions.

• Strategic Development: Contribute to the evolution of AirTrunk's global design standards, influencing future project methodologies and technologies.

• Mentorship: Opportunity to mentor junior engineers and design coordinators, fostering the next generation of data centre design professionals.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a key leadership opportunity within AirTrunk's project delivery framework. The direct reporting to a Project Director and the significant impact on project success indicate a high-growth potential career path. The emphasis on continuous improvement and contributing to future design standards suggests opportunities for strategic influence beyond day-to-day project execution.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid / On-site with potential for office-based work.

• The role is primarily site-based, requiring a significant presence at the construction site in Western Sydney to fulfill responsibilities related to design oversight and coordination. However, there may be opportunities for office-based work for administrative tasks, meetings, and collaboration with design teams located elsewhere. Office Location(s):

• Construction site in Western Sydney, NSW, Australia.

• Potential for collaboration with AirTrunk offices in Sydney or other regional hubs. Workspace Context:

• The primary workspace will be the active construction site, necessitating adaptability to dynamic and potentially challenging conditions.

• Access to project management tools, design software (potentially BIM viewers), and communication platforms will be provided to facilitate collaboration and documentation.

• Opportunities for interaction with a diverse range of professionals, including site engineers, construction managers, project managers, consultants, and client representatives. Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time hours (approx. 40 hours/week) are expected.

• Flexibility will be crucial to manage site activities, respond to urgent issues, and ensure project milestones are met, which may involve extended hours or weekend work during critical phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "On-site" nature of this role is paramount. Candidates should expect to spend the majority of their time at the Western Sydney construction site. This requires a practical, hands-on approach and the ability to thrive in a dynamic, field-oriented environment.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

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

• Technical Interview: Likely involves in-depth discussions with senior engineering or project management staff to evaluate your technical knowledge, problem-solving abilities, and experience with data centre design and construction. Expect scenario-based questions related to design challenges, risk management, and stakeholder coordination.

• Portfolio Presentation: You may be asked to present a selection of your work, focusing on key projects that demonstrate your capabilities in managing design during construction, resolving complex technical issues, and ensuring quality. Prepare case studies that highlight your specific contributions and impact.

• Stakeholder/Cultural Fit Interview: An opportunity to meet with potential colleagues or senior leaders to assess your communication style, collaborative approach, and fit with AirTrunk's dynamic culture. Questions may focus on how you handle pressure, manage conflict, and contribute to a team environment.

• Final Interview: Potentially with the Project Director or a senior executive to discuss overall suitability, career aspirations, and final offer terms.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Impact: Select projects that clearly demonstrate your ability to translate design intent into successful construction outcomes. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., cost savings, schedule improvements, defect reduction).

• Showcase Problem-Solving: Include specific examples of technical challenges you encountered on-site and how you devised and implemented effective solutions. Detail the multidisciplinary nature of these issues.

• Highlight Collaboration: Present instances where you successfully managed relationships and facilitated communication between diverse stakeholders (contractors, consultants, clients, internal teams).

• Demonstrate Quality Assurance: Provide examples of your approach to quality control, design inspections, and ensuring compliance with stringent standards.

• Structure for Clarity: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or by key responsibility area. Use clear visuals (diagrams, photos if permissible) and concise descriptions.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for case studies or hypothetical scenarios related to:

  • Resolving conflicting design requirements from different disciplines.
  • Managing a significant design change request during a critical construction phase.
  • Addressing a safety or quality issue stemming from a design interpretation.
  • Negotiating technical solutions with a contractor to meet budget and schedule constraints.

• Practice articulating your thought process, decision-making criteria, and the potential impacts of your proposed solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a senior role like this will be rigorous. Candidates should prepare to provide concrete examples and evidence of their expertise, particularly in managing design on-site and resolving complex technical issues within the data centre context. A well-prepared portfolio is essential for demonstrating practical experience and impact.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency with platforms like Procore, Aconex, or similar for managing site documentation, RFIs, submittals, and project communication.

• Design & Engineering Software: Familiarity with CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD) and ideally BIM platforms (e.g., Autodesk Revit, Navisworks) for reviewing and interpreting complex design models and drawings.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Advanced proficiency in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook for documentation, reporting, analysis, and communication.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Experience using project management dashboards and reporting tools to track design progress, identify risks, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) related to design compliance and quality.

• Ability to analyze technical submissions and contractor proposals against design specifications. CRM & Automation:

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

• Familiarity with digital engineering workflows and potential automation tools used in design review or documentation management.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific software isn't explicitly listed, the nature of the role implies a strong reliance on project management platforms, BIM/CAD software for design review, and standard office productivity tools. The emphasis on digital engineering workflows suggests an openness to modern technological approaches in construction management.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Challenger Mentality: AirTrunk encourages questioning the status quo and finding innovative solutions, aligning with the need to adapt designs to site conditions and optimize construction.

• Collaborative Problem Solvers: The company fosters an environment where individuals work together to tackle complex challenges, essential for coordinating diverse engineering disciplines and stakeholders.

• Quality First: A fundamental value, emphasizing meticulous attention to detail and adherence to high standards in all aspects of work, particularly critical for data centre reliability.

• Dynamic & Responsive: The fast-paced nature of AirTrunk requires individuals who can adapt quickly, make decisions efficiently, and respond effectively to evolving project needs.

• Sustainable & Scalable: A core ethos that influences design decisions, encouraging solutions that are not only effective now but also support future growth and environmental responsibility.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The role demands seamless collaboration with internal departments (Development, Design, Technology, Operations) and external parties (Contractors, Consultants, Vendors) to ensure holistic project success.

• Proactive Communication: An open and transparent communication style is crucial for managing expectations, resolving issues, and ensuring all parties are aligned on design intent and project goals.

• Constructive Feedback: An environment where feedback is shared constructively to drive continuous improvement in design and construction methodologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: AirTrunk's culture is built around innovation, collaboration, and a drive for excellence, particularly in a rapidly growing sector. The Design Manager will need to embody these values, acting as a bridge between different teams and ensuring that AirTrunk's high standards are met while fostering a positive and productive project environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Design Intent with Site Realities: Ensuring that the original design vision is maintained while accommodating unforeseen site conditions, constructability issues, and value engineering proposals.

• Managing Diverse Stakeholder Expectations: Navigating the needs and priorities of multiple parties (client, contractors, consultants, internal teams) to achieve consensus and drive project forward.

• Rapid Project Pace: Operating effectively in a fast-paced environment where decisions need to be made quickly without compromising quality or safety.

• Technical Complexity: Addressing intricate multidisciplinary engineering challenges inherent in hyperscale data centre construction.

• Owner Supplied Equipment (OSE) Integration: Coordinating the procurement, delivery, and installation of specialized equipment that may have long lead times and complex interfaces.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Hyperscale Data Centre Expertise: Gain unparalleled experience in the design and construction of cutting-edge hyperscale data centres, a rapidly growing and critical sector.

• Cross-Disciplinary Knowledge: Expand understanding across Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, Structural, and Architectural systems through daily interaction and problem-solving.

• Project Management Skills: Enhance project management capabilities, particularly in managing design interfaces, risks, and stakeholder communications on large-scale projects.

• Industry Best Practices: Learn and contribute to the development of industry-leading design and construction methodologies within a forward-thinking organization.

• Career Advancement: Potential to progress into senior project management, program management, or global design leadership roles within AirTrunk's expanding international operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges typical of large-scale, complex construction projects, particularly in the specialized data centre industry. However, these challenges are directly linked to substantial growth and learning opportunities, making it an attractive position for ambitious engineering professionals.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to resolve a significant design conflict between Mechanical and Electrical systems during construction. What was your approach, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on technical problem-solving, collaboration, and impact).

• "How do you ensure that a contractor's proposed solution or shop drawing remains aligned with the original design intent and AirTrunk's quality standards?" (Focus on design review process, governance, and quality assurance).

• "Imagine a critical component for Owner Supplied Equipment (OSE) is delayed, potentially impacting the project schedule. How would you manage this situation from a design perspective?" (Focus on risk mitigation, stakeholder communication, and contingency planning).

• "Walk me through your process for managing design changes on a large construction project. What steps do you take to ensure proper governance and documentation?" (Focus on change management processes and documentation). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about AirTrunk and our role in the hyperscale data centre market?" (Demonstrate research into the company's mission, projects, and industry position).

• "How do you approach collaboration with different teams, such as Development, Construction, and Operations, to ensure a unified project delivery?" (Highlight your teamwork and communication skills, aligning with AirTrunk's collaborative values).

• "AirTrunk emphasizes a 'quality-first' culture. How do you champion and enforce quality standards on a busy construction site?" (Provide specific examples of your commitment to quality control). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select High-Impact Projects: Choose 2-3 projects that best showcase your experience in managing design during construction, especially in data centres or similar mission-critical environments.

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each project, clearly outline:

  • The project's scope and your specific role.
  • Key design challenges encountered (e.g., technical conflicts, OSE integration, value engineering).
  • Your problem-solving methodology and actions taken.
  • The impact of your contributions (e.g., schedule adherence, cost savings, quality improvements, risk mitigation).

• Visual Aids: Use drawings, diagrams, or site photos (if appropriate and permitted) to illustrate complex technical aspects or solutions.

• Quantify Results: Whenever possible, use data and metrics to demonstrate the tangible outcomes of your work.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about your decision-making process, technical rationale, and how you managed specific stakeholder interactions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong understanding of data centre infrastructure, robust project execution skills, and the ability to lead and collaborate effectively in a high-pressure environment. Using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions and preparing specific case studies for portfolio review will be highly beneficial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

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

• Tailor Your Resume: Ensure your resume highlights experience in major infrastructure, mission-critical facilities, or hyperscale data centre projects, specifically emphasizing your role in managing design during the construction phase. Use keywords from the job description such as "Design Management," "Construction," "Hyperscale Data Centres," "Multidisciplinary Engineering," and "Stakeholder Management."

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Assemble a concise portfolio showcasing 2-3 key projects. Focus on demonstrating your problem-solving skills, technical leadership, and ability to manage design implementation on-site. Quantify achievements and be ready to discuss your process for managing design changes, risks, and quality control.

• Research AirTrunk: Understand AirTrunk's mission, their position in the market, their key projects, and their company values. Prepare to articulate why you are a good cultural fit and how you can contribute to their "Grow@Hyperscale" ethos.

• Practice Interview Responses: Rehearse answers to common interview questions, particularly those related to technical challenges, stakeholder management, and your approach to design governance and quality assurance in a construction environment.

⚠️ 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.