Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager

Company: Bechtel

Location: Perth, WA, Australia

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Engineering & Construction Management

Date Posted: 2026-06-02

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage the engineering technical aspects of complex aviation and infrastructure projects, ensuring alignment with project scope, budget, and quality standards.

• Drive project outcomes through in-depth knowledge of aviation-related industry codes, regulatory standards, and design criteria.

• Coordinate engineering efforts across multiple disciplines and stakeholders, facilitating technical discussions and resolving complex design challenges.

• Oversee design, constructability, and value engineering reviews, ensuring compliance with project requirements and best practices.

• Manage requests for information (RFIs) and design change requests, maintaining project integrity and progress.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Design Manager," the responsibilities and requirements clearly indicate a senior engineering leadership role within the project management framework, specifically focused on the technical and design execution of large-scale infrastructure projects, with a strong emphasis on aviation and airport development. This role requires a blend of technical expertise, project management acumen, and team leadership.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Apply broad and diversified knowledge of engineering principles and practices to project engineering, with a specific focus on aviation or airport projects and driving project outcomes.

• Execute work that may involve complex features, such as resolving conflicting design requirements, addressing the unsuitability of conventional materials, or managing difficult coordination requirements.

• Participate in and support Technical Risk Assessments (e.g., HAZIDs, HAZOPs) to ensure comprehensive completion, implementation of safety practices, and compliance of engineering design and documentation with the Quality Assurance plan.

• Communicate complex technical issues and recommend effective solutions to project management and stakeholders.

• Coordinate engineering efforts in assigned areas, facilitating technical discussions between specialty engineering groups, disciplines, suppliers, contractors, and other stakeholders.

• Attend regular progress meetings with the Design & Construction (D&C) or design contractor to ensure ongoing compliance of their work with the program, technical requirements, and obligations for value engineering, buildability, safety in design, and security.

• Oversee design, constructability, and value engineering reviews for the assigned project area or program.

• Manage requests for information (RFIs) and design change requests related to the assigned area or program.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "aviation or airport projects" and specific activities like HAZIDs, HAZOPs, constructability reviews, and RFI management indicates a highly specialized role within infrastructure development. The responsibility for managing "work efforts of professionals" and potentially leading a functional program suggests a significant leadership component in addition to technical oversight.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree (or international equivalent) in Civil, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering.

Experience: 10-13 years of relevant engineering experience, or 14-17 years of relevant work experience if a bachelor's degree is not held.

Required Skills:

• Extensive knowledge of Aviation-related industry/regulatory codes and standards and design criteria pertinent to infrastructure projects.

• Working knowledge of engineering planning and control methods.

• Deep understanding of infrastructure project construction practices.

• Extensive knowledge of field engineering, construction, and Testing & Commissioning (T&C) activities.

• Proven experience with complex interfaces in airport design and detailed design prepared by multiple design contractors.

• Proficiency in current computer applications relevant to engineering and design.

• Demonstrated ability to manage the work efforts of professional engineers.

• Ability to make decisions aligned with unit objectives and company policies.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with large-scale international infrastructure projects.

• Familiarity with Bechtel's project execution methodologies and systems.

• Strong negotiation and conflict resolution skills.

• Advanced understanding of project risk management principles.

• Experience in proposal development and technical bid evaluations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience requirement is presented with a range (10-13 years with degree, 14-17 years without), indicating flexibility for highly experienced candidates. The "Required Knowledge and Skills" section is robust, emphasizing practical, on-the-ground experience in field engineering, construction, and T&C, alongside design and regulatory knowledge.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a portfolio showcasing successful leadership of engineering design for complex aviation or infrastructure projects, highlighting significant contributions to project outcomes.

• Provide case studies detailing how you managed conflicting design requirements, material suitability issues, or complex coordination challenges, illustrating your problem-solving capabilities.

• Include examples of your involvement in Technical Risk Assessments (HAZIDs, HAZOPs) and how your contributions ensured safety and compliance.

• Showcase instances of successful collaboration with multiple design contractors and stakeholders in a project environment.

Process Documentation:

• Evidence of developing or implementing engineering planning and control methods for large-scale projects.

• Documentation illustrating your approach to overseeing design, constructability, and value engineering reviews.

• Examples of how you ensured engineering design compliance with Quality Assurance plans and procedures.

• Case studies demonstrating your ability to manage the work efforts of professional engineers and mentor junior team members.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role, a portfolio is crucial. It should not only display technical proficiency but also leadership, project management, and problem-solving abilities within complex engineering environments. The emphasis should be on demonstrating the impact of their work on project success, safety, and compliance.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.

• Retirement savings plan (e.g., Superannuation in Australia).

• Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and public holidays.

• Opportunities for professional development, training, and continuing education.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses and incentives.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for personal and work-related support.

• Career advancement and growth opportunities within Bechtel's global projects.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are typically 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday.

• Some flexibility may be available depending on project demands and team coordination needs, but the role is designated as "Full-Time Office/Project," indicating a strong on-site presence is expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate for the Perth market for a senior engineering management role at a company of Bechtel's caliber. Actual compensation will depend on the candidate's specific experience, qualifications, and negotiation. The benefits listed are typical for large multinational engineering firms and align with the provided "Total Rewards" mention.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) for major global projects, including infrastructure, energy, mining, metals, and defense. Bechtel is a significant player in large-scale, complex capital projects.

Company Size: Bechtel is one of the world's largest privately-owned engineering, construction, and project management companies, employing tens of thousands of people globally. This implies a structured, professional, and process-driven environment.

Founded: 1898. With over a century of history, Bechtel has a deeply ingrained culture of engineering excellence, project delivery, and a long-term perspective on business and relationships.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager will likely lead a team of engineers and designers within a specific project's engineering department.

• This role will report to a senior project engineering manager or director, with close collaboration with project managers, construction managers, and client representatives.

Methodology:

• Bechtel emphasizes a disciplined, data-driven approach to project execution, focusing on rigorous planning, risk management, and quality assurance.

• Workflow planning and optimization are critical, especially in managing complex design interfaces and ensuring constructability.

• Automation and efficiency practices are likely integrated through sophisticated project management software and digital tools.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Bechtel's long history and global presence suggest a culture that values experience, technical expertise, and a commitment to long-term project success and client relationships. The "Vision, Values and Commitments" are central to their operations, emphasizing integrity, safety, and delivering successful outcomes.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior-level position within the engineering and project management hierarchy. It is a leadership role responsible for a critical function of project execution, requiring significant technical depth, project experience, and managerial capability. It bridges the gap between detailed engineering design and overall project delivery.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will typically report to a Project Engineering Manager, Director of Engineering, or a similar senior engineering leadership position on a specific project. They will lead a team of engineers and designers, and will also interact extensively with project directors, construction managers, and client stakeholders.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's work has a direct and profound impact on project success. Effective design management ensures that projects are delivered on time, within budget, to the required technical specifications, and with robust safety and quality standards. Their decisions influence constructability, operational efficiency, and long-term asset performance, ultimately impacting the client's return on investment and Bechtel's reputation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in aviation/airport design or related infrastructure sectors, potentially leading to Principal Engineer or Chief Engineer roles on future projects.

• Project Management Progression: Transition into broader project management roles, such as Project Manager or Program Manager, overseeing larger and more complex projects.

• Leadership Development: Advance into higher leadership positions within Bechtel's engineering or project management divisions, potentially managing larger teams or entire engineering departments.

• Global Mobility: Opportunities to work on Bechtel's diverse international projects, gaining exposure to different engineering challenges and cultural environments.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a significant step for an experienced engineer looking to move into a leadership position with substantial project impact. The growth path is clear, offering avenues for both deepened technical expertise and broader project management responsibilities.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Perth, WA, and is designated as "Full-Time Office/Project." This implies a professional office environment, likely within a Bechtel project office or a client-provided facility in Perth. Given the "Site" designation, there may be requirements for site visits.

Office Location(s): Perth, Western Australia. Specific office details would be provided upon engagement.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will be collaborative, requiring close interaction with a team of engineers, designers, project managers, and other discipline leads.

• Access to industry-standard engineering software, project management tools, and communication platforms will be provided.

• The environment is expected to be fast-paced and demanding, typical of large-scale capital project execution.

• Opportunities for direct engagement with construction teams and potential site visits will be part of the work.

Work Schedule: While the standard is 40 hours per week, project deadlines and critical milestones may necessitate extended hours or weekend work. The emphasis on "Full-Time Office/Project" suggests a commitment to being physically present and engaged in project activities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Work Location: Perth, WA (Site)" designation suggests that while the primary base is an office in Perth, there will be an expectation of being on or near project sites as needed, which is common for senior engineering roles on major construction projects.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess alignment with the core requirements, particularly experience in aviation/infrastructure design and engineering management.

• Technical Interview(s): In-depth discussions focusing on your engineering expertise, project experience, and knowledge of aviation/infrastructure codes and standards. Expect questions on managing technical risks, design reviews, and stakeholder coordination.

• Leadership & Behavioral Interview: Assessment of your leadership style, team management capabilities, problem-solving approach, and ability to handle complex project challenges. Behavioral questions will probe past experiences and how you've handled specific situations.

• Portfolio Review Session: A dedicated session where you will present key projects from your portfolio, detailing your role, contributions, challenges faced, and outcomes achieved. This is a critical part of the evaluation.

• Final Interview: May involve senior project leadership or hiring managers to discuss overall fit, strategic alignment, and compensation.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Select Projects: Choose 2-3 projects that best showcase your leadership in aviation/infrastructure design management. Highlight complexity, scale, and your specific contributions.

• Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use metrics to demonstrate impact (e.g., cost savings from value engineering, reduction in RFIs, schedule improvements due to constructability reviews, safety incident rates).

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each project, clearly outline the objective, your role and responsibilities, the challenges encountered, the solutions implemented, and the results achieved.

• Highlight Leadership & Collaboration: Emphasize how you led teams, managed multiple disciplines, and collaborated effectively with contractors, clients, and other stakeholders.

• Be Prepared to Discuss Technical Details: While focusing on management, be ready to dive into technical aspects of the design if asked.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Anticipate questions that present hypothetical project challenges (e.g., conflicting design requirements, contractor performance issues, unexpected site conditions) and ask how you would address them.

• Risk Management Scenarios: Prepare to discuss how you would identify, assess, and mitigate technical risks on a complex aviation project.

• Value Engineering/Constructability: Be ready to discuss your approach to ensuring designs are cost-effective, buildable, and maintainable.

• Communication Strategy: Think about how you would communicate complex technical information to diverse audiences, from engineers to senior executives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a "portfolio review" is significant. Candidates should prepare a professional presentation that visually and verbally articulates their accomplishments, focusing on leadership, problem-solving, and impact on project delivery.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Engineering Design Software: Proficiency with industry-standard CAD/BIM software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit, Civil 3D) and specialized engineering analysis tools relevant to civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering.

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

• Collaboration Platforms: Familiarity with tools for document management, communication, and collaboration (e.g., Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, Procore).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret data from design reviews, risk assessments, and project progress reports.

• Reporting Tools: Experience generating and presenting technical reports, progress updates, and performance metrics to stakeholders.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how project data flows from design to procurement and construction is key.

• Familiarity with systems that manage design documentation, RFIs, and change orders.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific software isn't listed, the nature of Bechtel's projects implies a need for deep proficiency in complex project management and engineering design software. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with enterprise-level systems used in EPC environments.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all dealings, especially in technical decision-making and stakeholder interactions.

• Safety: A paramount commitment to safety in design, construction, and operations, ensuring all engineering decisions prioritize the well-being of personnel and the public.

• Excellence: A relentless pursuit of technical quality, innovation, and successful project delivery, setting high standards for oneself and the team.

• Teamwork: Fostering a collaborative environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and collective problem-solving is encouraged to achieve project objectives.

• Customer Focus: Dedication to understanding and meeting client needs, delivering projects that provide lasting value and positive impact.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Proactively engaging with all project disciplines (construction, procurement, controls, safety, quality) to ensure design alignment and seamless execution.

• Open Communication: Encouraging an environment where team members feel comfortable raising concerns, sharing feedback, and contributing ideas openly.

• Constructive Conflict Resolution: Addressing disagreements and technical challenges in a professional, solutions-oriented manner, focusing on the best outcome for the project.

• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting the sharing of lessons learned, best practices, and technical insights across the engineering team and project.

📝 Enhancement Note: Bechtel's "Vision, Values and Commitments" are central to their culture. Candidates should familiarize themselves with these principles and be ready to articulate how their personal values and work style align.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Complex Interfaces: Coordinating design inputs and outputs between numerous specialized engineering disciplines and multiple external design contractors on large, intricate projects.

• Technical Risk Mitigation: Proactively identifying, assessing, and mitigating complex technical risks that could impact project schedule, budget, or safety.

• Balancing Scope, Schedule, and Budget: Ensuring design decisions meet all project constraints, often requiring innovative solutions and trade-offs.

• Stakeholder Alignment: Navigating diverse stakeholder expectations and technical requirements, ensuring consensus and buy-in.

• Site-Specific Conditions: Adapting designs to unique site conditions and local regulatory frameworks in Western Australia.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Access to Bechtel's internal training programs and external courses to deepen expertise in aviation engineering, project management, and risk assessment.

• Industry Conferences & Certifications: Opportunities to attend leading industry events and pursue relevant professional certifications.

• Mentorship Programs: Potential to be mentored by senior Bechtel leaders or to mentor junior engineers, fostering leadership development.

• Exposure to Diverse Projects: Working on a variety of major capital projects provides continuous learning and exposure to new challenges and technologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges listed are inherent to senior roles on mega-projects. The growth opportunities emphasize Bechtel's commitment to employee development and providing pathways for career advancement within the organization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you led a team through a complex design challenge on a major infrastructure project. What was the challenge, how did you approach it, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on leadership, problem-solving, and impact).

• "How do you ensure that engineering designs comply with all relevant aviation industry codes, regulatory standards, and project-specific requirements?" (Assess knowledge of compliance and quality assurance).

• "Walk me through your process for conducting or overseeing a HAZID/HAZOP. What is your role, and how do you ensure all critical risks are identified and addressed?" (Evaluate risk management expertise).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Bechtel's values, and how do you see them reflected in your approach to engineering management?" (Demonstrate research and cultural alignment).

• "How do you foster a collaborative and safe working environment within your engineering team?" (Assess leadership and team-building approach).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: For each project, use a clear narrative: Project Overview -> Your Role & Responsibilities -> Key Challenges -> Solutions & Actions -> Results & Impact.

• Visuals: Use slides with clear diagrams, timelines, and key metrics. Avoid text-heavy slides; use them as prompts for your discussion.

• Focus on Leadership: Emphasize your decision-making, team leadership, and problem-solving contributions, not just technical execution.

• Quantify Impact: Be ready to discuss cost savings, schedule adherence, safety improvements, or efficiency gains achieved through your design management.

• Tailor to Bechtel: If possible, subtly link your experiences and successes to Bechtel's known project types or values.

📝 Enhancement Note: Be prepared to discuss specific project examples in detail. The interview will likely assess both technical competence and the ability to manage complex projects and teams effectively within Bechtel's established frameworks.

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📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

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

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight experience in aviation/infrastructure design management, engineering leadership, risk assessment (HAZID/HAZOP), value engineering, and cross-functional coordination. Use keywords from the job description.

• Portfolio Preparation: Curate a concise, impactful portfolio showcasing 2-3 relevant projects. Prepare a presentation that clearly articulates your role, challenges, solutions, and quantifiable achievements in design leadership.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Bechtel's history, values, current projects (especially in Western Australia), and their approach to engineering and project delivery.

• Interview Practice: Practice answering behavioral and situational questions related to leadership, technical problem-solving, and stakeholder management, using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).

⚠️ 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.