Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager

Company: Aurecon

Location: Brisbane, Australia

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Engineering Design Management (Mechanical/Piping Specialization)

Date Posted: May 04, 2026

Experience Level: Senior (10+ years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage complex piping design coordination for oil & gas, CSG, petrochemical, and heavy industrial projects.

• Drive the integration of piping design with multidisciplinary engineering teams (structural, mechanical, electrical, civil, instrumentation) within advanced 3D environments.

• Ensure the production of high-quality, safe, and constructible design deliverables, including 3D models, isometrics, and fabrication drawings.

• Champion smart, data-driven engineering delivery and digital design workflows across local and global teams.

• Provide technical guidance, mentorship, and leadership to a global team of piping designers and modellers.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Design Manager," the core responsibilities and required skills heavily emphasize specialized piping design coordination and leadership within an engineering context. This role is less about broad design management and more about leading a specific discipline's design execution on complex projects. The "Design Manager" title here likely signifies a senior, lead role with management responsibilities over a design function rather than a general design department.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate all aspects of piping design, focusing on 3D modeling, layout optimization, and constructability reviews to ensure practical and efficient designs.

• Manage the seamless integration of piping design with other engineering disciplines, including structural, mechanical, electrical, civil, and instrumentation, to achieve cohesive project outcomes.

• Oversee the accurate production and rigorous review of critical piping deliverables such as isometrics, general arrangement drawings, and fabrication documentation.

• Support and drive the adoption of smart, data-driven engineering delivery methods and advanced digital design workflows, including the development of digital pipe specifications.

• Provide essential technical guidance, mentorship, and professional development support to junior and senior designers and modellers, both locally and within Aurecon's Global Design Centres.

• Facilitate and lead model reviews with internal project teams and external clients, ensuring clear communication and alignment on design progress and decisions.

• Contribute to the planning, resourcing, and efficient delivery of piping design activities, ensuring project timelines and budget constraints are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical leadership, project coordination, and team management, typical for a senior role within a specialized engineering discipline. The emphasis on "Global Design Centres" suggests a need for strong remote team management and communication skills.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While not explicitly stated, a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline is typically expected for such a senior role in the engineering consulting industry. Relevant technical certifications or advanced diplomas in piping design may also be considered.

Experience: A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in piping design, with a significant portion dedicated to leadership and coordination roles within complex industrial projects.

Required Skills:

• Extensive experience in piping design specifically within the oil & gas, CSG (Coal Seam Gas), petrochemical, or heavy industry sectors.

• Expert-level proficiency in Autodesk Plant 3D for intelligent 3D model development and management.

• Expertise in using Aveva software for integrated design and engineering workflows.

• Proven experience coordinating multidisciplinary design inputs within integrated 3D environments, ensuring seamless collaboration and data flow.

• Strong capability in interpreting P&IDs (Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams), developing detailed piping layouts, and producing accurate isometric drawings.

• Thorough understanding of relevant industry codes and Australian Standards applicable to piping design and installation.

• Familiarity with ISO information standards and modern digital practices, including the development of digital pipe specifications.

• Excellent stakeholder engagement, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively interact with clients and multidisciplinary teams.

• Demonstrated experience in mentoring, guiding, or supervising junior designers and modellers.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with other 3D modeling or CAD software commonly used in heavy industry.

• Knowledge of advanced simulation or analysis tools related to piping systems.

• Familiarity with project management methodologies and tools.

• Experience in developing and implementing digital design strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for both Autodesk Plant 3D and Aveva indicates a need for expertise in potentially disparate but industry-standard software platforms. The emphasis on Australian Standards suggests that candidates with local experience will have a significant advantage.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase at least two distinct projects demonstrating leadership in piping design coordination for oil & gas, CSG, petrochemical, or heavy industrial sectors.

• Include examples of integrated 3D models and the coordination process with other disciplines (structural, mechanical, electrical, etc.).

• Present examples of P&ID interpretation, complex piping layouts, and produced isometric drawings, highlighting problem-solving and optimization.

• Demonstrate experience with Autodesk Plant 3D and/or Aveva, illustrating proficiency in intelligent modeling and data management.

Process Documentation:

• Examples of workflow design for piping design coordination, illustrating how multidisciplinary inputs were managed.

• Documentation or case studies detailing the implementation of digital design workflows or digital pipe specifications.

• Metrics or reports showing how design efficiency, quality, or constructability was measured and improved under your leadership.

📝 Enhancement Note: For senior engineering roles like this, a portfolio is crucial. It should not just show finished products but the process and leadership involved in achieving those outcomes, especially concerning multidisciplinary integration and digital workflows.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for a Design Manager with 10+ years of experience in a senior piping design coordination role in Brisbane, Australia, the estimated annual salary range is AUD $150,000 - $200,000. This estimate considers the specialized nature of the role, the heavy industrial sector, and the cost of living in Brisbane.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage.

• Generous paid time off (annual leave, sick leave, public holidays).

• Superannuation contributions (Australia's mandatory retirement savings scheme).

• Professional development and training opportunities, including access to industry conferences and specialized courses.

• Opportunities for career advancement within a global engineering consultancy.

• Flexible working arrangements (hybrid model).

• Potential for performance-based bonuses.

• Employee assistance programs.

Working Hours: The standard working hours are approximately 40 hours per week. However, given the project-driven nature of the industry and the hybrid work arrangement, flexibility may be required to meet project deadlines and client needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on typical compensation for senior engineering management roles in Australia. Actual compensation will depend on the candidate's specific experience, qualifications, and negotiation. Superannuation is a mandatory employer contribution in Australia and is a key part of employee benefits.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Aurecon operates within the Engineering, Construction, and Consulting sectors, with a strong focus on infrastructure, energy, resources, and buildings. This role specifically targets the Oil & Gas, CSG, Petrochemical, and Heavy Industrial segments, which are critical to global supply chains and energy provision. The company's involvement in these sectors means a culture that values technical excellence, safety, and innovation in delivering complex, large-scale projects.

Company Size: Aurecon is a large, global engineering and infrastructure advisory firm, employing thousands of professionals worldwide. This scale offers opportunities for broad exposure, access to diverse expertise, and participation in significant international projects. For operations professionals, this means structured processes, potential for specialization, and a robust corporate framework.

Founded: Aurecon was formed through the merger of several established engineering consultancies, with roots tracing back over 100 years. This long history signifies stability, deep industry knowledge, and a proven track record in delivering major engineering feats.

Team Structure:

• The Design Management team likely consists of highly specialized individuals, including senior engineers, design coordinators, and skilled modellers across various disciplines. This role would sit within a project-specific structure, reporting to a Project Manager or Engineering Manager, while leading a dedicated piping design team.

• Reporting lines would typically involve managing a team of piping designers and modellers, potentially across different geographical locations (local and Global Design Centres), and collaborating closely with discipline leads for structural, mechanical, electrical, civil, and instrumentation engineers.

Methodology:

• Data analysis and insights are crucial for Aurecon's approach to engineering challenges, leveraging digital tools and advanced analytics to inform design decisions and optimize project outcomes.

• Workflow planning and optimization are central to managing complex projects efficiently, ensuring seamless integration across disciplines and adherence to global standards.

• Automation and efficiency practices are actively pursued through digital design workflows, smart technologies, and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance project delivery.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Aurecon's global presence and long history suggest a well-established, process-driven environment. The emphasis on "smart, data-driven engineering" and "digital design workflows" indicates a forward-thinking approach to engineering solutions, which is a key consideration for operations and technical professionals.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is at a senior management/leadership level within the engineering design function, specifically focusing on piping. It requires extensive technical expertise combined with proven leadership and coordination capabilities. The scope involves managing design integrity, team performance, and client relationships for complex industrial projects.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will likely report to a Project Director, Lead Project Engineer, or Engineering Manager. They will, in turn, manage and mentor a team of piping designers and 3D modellers, potentially distributed across Aurecon's Global Design Centres. This structure necessitates strong remote team leadership and communication skills.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager directly impacts project success by ensuring the technical integrity, constructability, and efficiency of piping designs. Their leadership influences project timelines, budget adherence, safety outcomes, and client satisfaction. Effective operations management in this role minimizes rework, optimizes material usage, and contributes to the overall profitability and reputation of Aurecon.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization Advancement: Deepen expertise in advanced piping design, digital twin technologies, or specific industrial sectors like LNG or advanced petrochemicals.

• Leadership Progression: Advance into roles such as Lead Engineering Manager, Technical Director, or Project Director, taking on broader project responsibilities and strategic decision-making.

• Global Mobility: Opportunities to work on international projects and potentially relocate to other Aurecon offices globally, gaining exposure to diverse engineering challenges and markets.

• Skill Development: Access to Aurecon's extensive training programs, certifications, and mentorship opportunities to enhance technical, leadership, and project management skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role represents a significant career step for a piping design professional, moving into a leadership position with substantial project impact. The growth opportunities are geared towards expanding technical leadership, project management scope, and global career development within a large, reputable firm.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Aurecon offers a hybrid work environment, combining office-based collaboration with remote work flexibility. The Brisbane office is likely a modern, professional workspace designed to foster collaboration and innovation.

Office Location(s): The primary office for this role is in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. Aurecon has multiple offices across Australia, and this role may involve interaction or collaboration with teams in other locations.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is designed to encourage collaboration, with dedicated areas for team meetings, project discussions, and focused individual work. Proximity to other engineering disciplines within the office would facilitate quick consultations.

• Access to Aurecon's robust IT infrastructure, including high-performance computing for 3D modeling, specialized design software, and secure network access, is standard.

• Opportunities for spontaneous interaction with colleagues from various engineering disciplines and project teams are present, fostering a dynamic and knowledge-sharing environment.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is approximately 40 hours per week. The hybrid model allows for a balance between in-office and remote work, with specific days in the office likely determined by team needs and project requirements. This flexibility aims to support work-life balance while ensuring effective team collaboration and project delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Hybrid" work arrangement implies that candidates should be comfortable with a mix of in-office and remote work. The specific days in the office might be flexible or dictated by project needs, requiring good self-management and communication skills.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application by HR/recruitment to assess basic qualifications and experience.

• Technical Interview: Likely conducted by a hiring manager and/or senior engineers from the piping design team. This will involve in-depth questions about your technical expertise, project experience, and problem-solving skills related to piping design, 3D modeling, and multidisciplinary coordination.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where you will present key projects from your portfolio, detailing your role, challenges faced, solutions implemented, and the outcomes achieved. This is a critical step to demonstrate your leadership and technical capabilities.

• Behavioral/Cultural Fit Interview: Assessing your collaboration style, leadership approach, ability to mentor, and alignment with Aurecon's values and culture.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader or Director, focusing on strategic fit, long-term career aspirations, and overall suitability for the role.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 2-3 projects that best showcase your leadership in piping design coordination, complex problem-solving, and successful integration with other disciplines.

• Focus on Process & Impact: Don't just show final drawings; explain the design process, the challenges encountered (e.g., complex layouts, constructability issues), your specific contributions, and the measurable impact of your solutions (e.g., cost savings, schedule improvements, safety enhancements).

• Highlight Digital Proficiency: Clearly demonstrate your experience with Autodesk Plant 3D, Aveva, and digital workflows. Show examples of intelligent models and how data was leveraged.

• Quantify Achievements: Use metrics wherever possible. For instance, "Reduced rework by X% through early constructability reviews," or "Managed a global team of Y designers to deliver Z project ahead of schedule."

• Prepare for Q&A: Anticipate questions about your decision-making process, how you handled conflict, and how you mentored team members.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready for scenario-based questions, such as "How would you resolve a conflict between piping design requirements and structural constraints?" or "Describe how you would optimize a complex piping layout for constructability."

• Practice articulating your thought process clearly and concisely, as if presenting to a client or project team.

• Familiarize yourself with Aurecon's recent projects and their approach to innovation and sustainability to demonstrate your interest and understanding of the company.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a senior role like this is rigorous. A strong portfolio that tells a story of leadership, technical problem-solving, and successful project outcomes is paramount. Demonstrating an understanding of Aurecon's specific industry focus and digital initiatives will also be beneficial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Autodesk Plant 3D: Essential for intelligent 3D model development, piping layout, isometric generation, and data management. Proficiency in its advanced features for design automation and specification management is expected.

• Aveva Software: Crucial for integrated engineering workflows, potentially including Aveva PDMS/E3D for 3D modeling, Aveva Diagrams for P&IDs, and other modules for data management and project execution.

• P&ID Software: Familiarity with tools for creating and managing Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams is necessary.

• General Drafting/CAD Software: Proficiency in AutoCAD or similar for 2D drafting and reviewing general arrangement drawings.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly stated as a primary responsibility, experience with tools for extracting data from 3D models and P&IDs for reporting on design progress, quantities, and potential issues would be advantageous. This could include native reporting features within Plant 3D/Aveva or integration with business intelligence tools.

CRM & Automation:

• This role is primarily focused on design execution rather than client relationship management via CRM systems. However, understanding how design data feeds into broader project management and enterprise systems is beneficial.

• Automation within the design process itself, such as using scripts or templates within Plant 3D/Aveva for repetitive tasks or for developing digital pipe specifications, is highly valued.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of Autodesk Plant 3D and Aveva is critical. Candidates must demonstrate hands-on expertise with these specific platforms, as they form the core of the technical requirements for this role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: A paramount value in heavy industry and engineering, expecting a commitment to safe design practices and hazard identification.

• Excellence & Innovation: A drive for high-quality engineering solutions, embracing new technologies and innovative approaches to design challenges.

• Collaboration: A strong emphasis on working effectively across disciplines, with clients, and within global teams, fostering a supportive and integrated work environment.

• Integrity: Upholding ethical standards, transparency, and accountability in all professional dealings and project execution.

• Curiosity: A willingness to learn, explore new ideas, and continuously improve processes and technical capabilities.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive & Integrated: The role demands a highly collaborative style, actively engaging with project engineers, discipline leads, and clients to ensure design alignment and address issues promptly.

• Mentorship-Driven: A key aspect is fostering a collaborative learning environment by mentoring junior designers, sharing knowledge, and encouraging team growth.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging open communication and the sharing of best practices, lessons learned, and innovative solutions across local and global teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: Aurecon's values align with typical industry expectations for large engineering firms, emphasizing safety, quality, and collaboration. For this role, demonstrating how these values translate into practical leadership and team management is important.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Multidisciplinary Integration: Effectively coordinating piping design with potentially conflicting requirements from structural, mechanical, electrical, and civil disciplines within complex project environments.

• Global Team Management: Leading and motivating a distributed team across different time zones and cultures, ensuring consistent quality and communication.

• Technical Complexity: Tackling highly complex piping design challenges in demanding industrial sectors that require deep technical knowledge and innovative problem-solving.

• Digital Transformation: Navigating and driving the adoption of new digital design tools and workflows, ensuring teams are up-to-date with the latest technologies and practices.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Access to specialized courses on advanced piping design, new software capabilities (e.g., latest versions of Plant 3D, Aveva, BIM), and industry-specific best practices.

• Leadership & Management Programs: Development opportunities focused on enhancing project management, team leadership, client engagement, and strategic decision-making skills.

• Industry Exposure: Participation in industry conferences, forums, and professional bodies to stay abreast of trends, network with peers, and represent Aurecon.

• Mentorship: Opportunities to be mentored by senior leaders within Aurecon and to mentor emerging talent, fostering both personal and professional growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for senior roles in large-scale engineering projects. Aurecon's commitment to learning and development suggests a supportive environment for professionals looking to advance their careers in specialized engineering fields.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to resolve a significant design conflict between piping and another engineering discipline. What was your approach, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on collaboration, problem-solving, and compromise.)

• "How do you ensure constructability is integrated into piping design from the outset, especially for complex industrial projects?" (Highlight your understanding of practical execution and early engagement.)

• "Walk me through your experience using Autodesk Plant 3D and Aveva for managing large, multidisciplinary projects. What are their key strengths and limitations for coordination?" (Prepare to discuss specific features and your workflow.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Aurecon's work in the oil & gas or petrochemical sectors? What interests you most about our approach to these projects?" (Research recent Aurecon projects in these sectors and their stated methodologies.)

• "How do you foster a culture of safety and continuous improvement within a design team?" (Relate to Aurecon's values and your leadership style.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Start with an executive summary of your role and key achievements. Then, dive into 2-3 detailed case studies, focusing on the problem, your solution, your leadership role, and the quantifiable results.

• Visuals: Use clear, professional visuals – screenshots of 3D models, P&IDs, isometric drawings, and potentially charts showing performance improvements. Avoid cluttered or unprofessional visuals.

• Storytelling: Frame your experience as a narrative. What was the challenge? What did you do? What was the impact? This makes your presentation more engaging and memorable.

• Quantify Everything Possible: Use numbers to demonstrate impact – percentage improvements, cost savings, schedule adherence, team size managed, number of deliverables produced.

• Engage & Interact: Be prepared for questions throughout your presentation and invite discussion. Show enthusiasm and confidence.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparing specific examples for behavioral questions and practicing your portfolio presentation with a focus on quantifiable results and leadership will be crucial. Demonstrating an understanding of Aurecon's specific industry focus and digital initiatives will also be highly beneficial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the Aurecon careers portal link provided.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your extensive experience in piping design within oil & gas, CSG, petrochemical, or heavy industry. Explicitly mention your proficiency with Autodesk Plant 3D and Aveva, and any experience with Australian Standards or ISO information standards. Quantify achievements wherever possible.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 key projects that best showcase your leadership in piping design coordination, multidisciplinary integration, and use of advanced design tools. Focus on demonstrating your process, problem-solving, and quantifiable results.

• Practice Your Presentation: Rehearse your portfolio presentation, focusing on articulating your role, the challenges, your solutions, and the outcomes clearly and concisely. Be ready to answer in-depth technical and behavioral questions.

• Research Aurecon: Familiarize yourself with Aurecon's company values, recent projects in the heavy industrial sector, and their approach to digital engineering and sustainability. This will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate genuine interest.

⚠️ 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.