Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager

Company: BESIX

Location: Brisbane, Queensland, Australia

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Construction Management / Design Operations

Date Posted: 2026-09-16

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearhead design coordination and documentation for large-scale D&C building projects, ensuring adherence to project briefs and quality standards.

• Drive constructability reviews and methodology development in close collaboration with construction teams and trade subcontractors to optimize project delivery.

• Manage consultant relationships and deliverables to ensure timely, on-budget, and high-quality design outcomes.

• Oversee design quality control processes and ensure compliance with all regulatory and building codes.

• Contribute to the strategic planning and execution of complex construction projects within the Queensland, NT & NZ region.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is critical for bridging the gap between design conceptualization and on-site execution, requiring a strong understanding of both architectural/engineering principles and practical construction methodologies. The focus on D&C projects implies a need for proactive design management from inception through to completion.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and manage external design consultants throughout the design development lifecycle, from concept to detailed design.

• Ensure all design documentation is delivered on time, within allocated budgets, and strictly adheres to the defined Project Brief and client requirements.

• Conduct thorough reviews of project designs to guarantee compliance with all relevant Australian regulatory standards and building codes.

• Collaborate closely with the construction team, including site engineers and project managers, and trade subcontractors to assess design constructability and identify opportunities for efficiency improvements.

• Actively participate in the development and refinement of project delivery methodologies, contributing expertise from a design perspective.

• Implement and maintain rigorous design quality control procedures to ensure the highest standards are met across all project phases.

• Facilitate effective communication and coordination between design consultants, construction teams, and other project stakeholders to resolve design issues promptly.

• Review and approve design submittments and shop drawings, ensuring they align with the overall design intent and project specifications.

• Support the tendering process by providing design input and clarification, and assist in the evaluation of design-related aspects of subcontractor proposals.

• Contribute to risk management by identifying potential design-related risks and developing mitigation strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "constructability in collaboration with the construction team and trade subcontractors" highlights a practical, hands-on approach to design management, moving beyond purely theoretical oversight. This suggests the need for a candidate who can translate design into buildable solutions and influence design decisions based on site realities.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Tertiary Qualification in a relevant discipline – Construction Management, Architecture, or Engineering is essential. Experience:

• Minimum of 5-10 years of progressive experience in design management within the construction industry.

• Proven track record of successfully delivering large-scale Design & Construct (D&C) building projects from commencement through to completion, working with a principal contractor. Required Skills:

• Design Management: Proven ability to lead and manage the entire design process for complex building projects.

• Consultant Management: Expertise in selecting, briefing, and managing external design consultants to achieve optimal project outcomes.

• Regulatory & Building Compliance: In-depth knowledge of Australian building codes, standards, and regulatory requirements.

• Constructability Analysis: Strong understanding of construction processes and the ability to assess designs for ease of construction and cost-effectiveness.

• Project Delivery: Demonstrated success in delivering projects on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards.

• Methodology Development: Ability to contribute to and influence the development of project delivery strategies.

• Quality Control: Experience in implementing and managing design quality assurance and control processes.

• Stakeholder Collaboration: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to foster effective working relationships with internal teams, consultants, subcontractors, and clients.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with specific project management software relevant to design coordination (e.g., BIM 360, Procore).

• Familiarity with various construction sectors including stadiums, venues, industrial facilities, hospitals, and defense infrastructure.

• Advanced proficiency in BIM (Building Information Modeling) and its application in design coordination.

• Strong negotiation and conflict resolution skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The AI-generated experience level of "5-10 years" aligns well with the typical requirements for a Design Manager role overseeing significant D&C projects. The emphasis on "large scale" projects and "principal contractor" experience suggests a need for candidates who have managed complex project lifecycles and navigated the intricacies of large construction contracts.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Coordination Case Studies: Showcase projects where you effectively managed design consultants, resolved complex design issues, and ensured timely delivery of design documentation.

• Constructability Improvement Examples: Provide specific instances where your input influenced design decisions to enhance buildability, reduce costs, or improve construction timelines.

• Compliance Documentation Samples: Demonstrate your understanding of regulatory compliance through examples of design reviews or documentation that ensured adherence to building codes.

• Quality Control Process Outlines: Detail your approach to implementing and managing design quality control systems on past projects.

Process Documentation:

• Design Review Workflows: Documented processes for conducting design reviews, including checklists, stakeholder engagement protocols, and approval pathways.

• Consultant Management Protocols: Standard operating procedures for engaging, briefing, managing, and evaluating the performance of design consultants.

• Change Management Procedures: Established workflows for managing design changes, including impact assessment, approval processes, and communication protocols.

• Risk Assessment Frameworks: Methodologies for identifying, assessing, and mitigating design-related risks throughout the project lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio for this role should not just list projects but demonstrate a clear process of how the candidate managed design challenges, collaborated with teams, and achieved measurable outcomes in terms of quality, budget, and schedule. Highlighting D&C project experience and regulatory compliance will be key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for a Design Manager role in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia, with 5-10 years of experience in large-scale D&C construction projects, the estimated annual salary range is AUD $130,000 - AUD $170,000. This estimate considers the complexity of managing design for major infrastructure and building projects, the specific qualifications required, and the cost of living in Brisbane. Benefits:

• Wellbeing Days: Three additional paid leave days per year.

• Awards and Recognition Program: Opportunities to be recognized for embodying company values.

• Comprehensive Wellbeing Program: Includes annual skin checks and flu vaccinations.

• Perkbox Access: Offers a wide array of discounts, perks, and wellbeing tools for physical and mental health.

• Social Events and Family Days: Company-sponsored events to foster team cohesion and work-life balance.

• Long-term career development opportunities within BESIX.

• Competitive remuneration package. Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours are expected, likely around 40 hours per week. However, the demands of project delivery, especially during critical design phases or construction milestones, may require flexibility and occasional extended hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on aggregated data from Australian job boards and salary aggregators for similar roles in major Australian cities. The benefits package provided by BESIX Watpac is quite comprehensive, with a strong emphasis on employee wellbeing, which is a significant draw for professionals in demanding industries like construction.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction. BESIX Watpac operates within a highly competitive and dynamic sector, focusing on delivering significant infrastructure, building, and industrial projects across Australia and New Zealand. Their heritage spans over a century, indicating a stable yet evolving presence in the market.

Company Size: BESIX Watpac is a substantial entity, part of a larger international group. This size suggests robust organizational structures, resources, and a broad project portfolio, offering stability and diverse career opportunities. For operations professionals, this means exposure to large-scale projects, established processes, and potentially complex organizational dynamics.

Founded: BESIX Watpac has over a century of heritage in Australia, indicating a deep-rooted and experienced presence in the local construction market. This long history implies a strong understanding of local conditions, established relationships, and a proven ability to adapt to industry changes.

Team Structure:

• Operations Team: The Design Manager will be part of the Qld, NT & NZ Construction team, indicating a regional focus within the broader BESIX Watpac organization.

• Reporting: The role likely reports to a senior construction manager or a director overseeing design and project delivery within the specified region.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: The role necessitates extensive collaboration with internal construction teams (project managers, site engineers, estimators), trade subcontractors, and external design consultants.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: While not explicitly stated for design, construction projects typically rely on data for scheduling, budgeting, risk assessment, and quality control. The Design Manager will contribute design data to these processes.

• Process Optimization: The role's focus on constructability and methodology development directly contributes to optimizing construction processes and driving efficiencies.

• Quality Assurance: Maintaining design quality control is a core part of the role, ensuring that project standards are met and potential issues are proactively addressed.

Company Website: https://www.besixwatpac.com.au/

📝 Enhancement Note: BESIX Watpac's emphasis on "building what matters" and leaving a "lasting legacy" suggests a company culture focused on impactful projects and long-term value. Their commitment to people as the "beating heart" indicates a value placed on their workforce and a collaborative approach.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This Design Manager position is a senior-level role within the construction operations hierarchy. It requires significant technical expertise in design principles, a deep understanding of construction processes, and proven leadership capabilities in managing complex project deliverables. The scope involves overseeing critical design aspects of large-scale projects, influencing project methodology, and ensuring compliance and quality.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will likely report to a senior figure within the Qld, NT & NZ Construction division, such as a General Manager, Director of Operations, or a Senior Project Director. They will, in turn, manage a team of consultants and collaborate closely with project managers and site-based construction personnel.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's impact is profound, directly influencing project feasibility, cost-effectiveness, buildability, and overall project success. Effective design management minimizes costly rework, ensures regulatory compliance, enhances safety, and contributes to client satisfaction. Their decisions have a tangible effect on project timelines, budgets, and the final quality of the built asset, ultimately impacting BESIX Watpac's profitability and reputation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to progress to more senior roles such as Senior Design Manager, Head of Design, or Project Director, managing larger and more complex projects or portfolios.

• Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific construction sectors (e.g., defense, healthcare, infrastructure) or advanced design technologies like BIM.

• Cross-functional Mobility: Possibility to transition into broader project management roles or operational leadership positions within BESIX Watpac.

• Mentorship: Opportunities to mentor junior design coordinators or engineers, developing leadership and training skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "5-10 years" experience level suggests this role is for an established professional. Growth opportunities would likely involve taking on larger, more complex projects, potentially with international dimensions if BESIX's global presence is leveraged, or moving into a strategic design leadership role.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Brisbane, Queensland, and is described as "On-site," indicating a primary work location within a corporate office environment. This office serves as the central hub for project planning, coordination, and management.

Office Location(s): The primary office location is Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. This location likely offers access to major transport links and amenities, facilitating collaboration with various project teams and stakeholders across the region.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The office space is expected to support a collaborative atmosphere, with meeting rooms and shared workspaces designed for team discussions, design reviews, and stakeholder presentations.

• Tools and Technology: Access to essential office technology, project management software, and potentially BIM software and visualization tools will be provided to support efficient design management.

• Team Interaction: The workspace will facilitate regular interaction with project managers, construction teams, estimators, and administrative staff, fostering a cohesive project team environment.

Work Schedule: The role is full-time, typically around 40 hours per week. However, the nature of construction project delivery means that flexibility may be required, with potential for extended hours during critical project phases, tender periods, or to meet urgent design deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "On-site" designation for this role is typical for senior management positions in construction, emphasizing the need for physical presence for team coordination, site visits, and client/consultant interactions. While office-based, occasional site visits to project locations would be an integral part of the role.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and cover letter to assess qualifications, experience, and alignment with the core responsibilities. Be sure to highlight D&C project experience and specific achievements in design management.

• First Interview: Typically with the hiring manager or a senior member of the construction team. Expect questions about your design management philosophy, experience with consultant coordination, constructability reviews, and handling project challenges.

• Technical Assessment/Case Study: You may be asked to present a case study from your portfolio, detailing a complex design challenge, your approach to resolving it, and the outcome. This will assess your problem-solving skills, technical knowledge, and presentation abilities.

• Final Interview: May involve meeting with higher-level management or a panel to discuss strategic fit, leadership potential, and long-term career aspirations within BESIX Watpac.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure for Impact: Organize your portfolio to clearly showcase 2-3 key D&C projects. For each project, detail the scope, your specific role and responsibilities, the design challenges faced, your solutions, and the quantifiable results (e.g., cost savings from constructability improvements, adherence to schedule, quality outcomes).

• Highlight Collaboration: Emphasize your ability to collaborate effectively with consultants, construction teams, and subcontractors. Use specific examples of how you facilitated communication and resolved conflicts.

• Demonstrate Compliance & Quality: Include evidence of your approach to ensuring regulatory compliance and maintaining design quality control. This could be through process descriptions or examples of review documentation.

• Quantify Achievements: Wherever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the impact of your work. For instance, "Implemented design changes that reduced material waste by 15%" or "Ensured design submission approval within 95% of target deadlines."

• Tailor to BESIX: Research BESIX Watpac's current projects and values. If possible, subtly tailor your presentation to align with their specific interests or recent work.

Challenge Preparation:

• Constructability Scenario: Be prepared to discuss how you would approach a constructability review for a complex building element or system. Think about potential challenges and how you would involve trade subcontractors.

• Design Conflict Resolution: Prepare to describe a situation where there was a significant conflict between design intent and site constraints, and how you mediated a solution.

• Consultant Management Strategy: Outline your approach to managing a consultant who is consistently missing deadlines or delivering substandard work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is likely to be rigorous, focusing on practical application of design management principles within a large-scale construction context. A well-prepared portfolio that clearly articulates your process, collaboration style, and quantifiable achievements will be crucial for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency in platforms like Procore, Aconex, or similar construction project management systems for document control, communication, and progress tracking.

• BIM Software: Familiarity with Building Information Modeling (BIM) platforms such as Autodesk Revit, Navisworks, or Bentley Systems for 3D modeling, clash detection, and design visualization.

• Design Software: Understanding of CAD (e.g., AutoCAD) and potentially architectural/engineering design software suites.

• Collaboration Platforms: Experience with tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or SharePoint for team communication and document sharing.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Reporting Tools: Ability to generate and interpret reports from project management and BIM software related to design progress, compliance, and potential risks.

• Spreadsheet Software: Advanced skills in Microsoft Excel for data analysis, budget tracking, and creating custom reports.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM (Customer Relationship Management): While not a direct sales role, understanding CRM principles for managing consultant and client relationships may be beneficial.

• Automation Tools: Familiarity with any workflow automation tools used within BESIX Watpac for design review or document management processes would be an advantage.

• Integration Tools: Understanding how different software systems (e.g., BIM, project management, ERP) integrate and share data is valuable.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific tools aren't listed, the nature of managing large D&C projects implies a need for proficiency in industry-standard construction project management software and BIM tools. Demonstrating experience with these technologies will be critical.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Delivery: A core value focused on achieving high standards in all aspects of project execution, from design to construction.

• Collaboration: Emphasis on teamwork, open communication, and working together across disciplines and with external partners to achieve common goals.

• Integrity: Upholding ethical standards in all business dealings and project execution.

• Innovation & Efficiency: Encouraging the adoption of new methods and technologies to improve processes and outcomes, particularly in constructability and methodology.

• Safety & Wellbeing: A paramount value ensuring the health, safety, and wellbeing of all employees and stakeholders.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The Design Manager is expected to be a central connector, fostering seamless integration between design consultants, construction teams, and subcontractors. This involves proactive communication and a willingness to bridge different perspectives.

• Process Review Culture: An environment where processes, including design and construction methodologies, are regularly reviewed and improved based on feedback and performance data.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise across projects and teams to elevate overall organizational capability.

📝 Enhancement Note: BESIX Watpac's stated values and commitment to people suggest a culture that values both professional achievement and employee welfare. The emphasis on "build the best together" points to a collaborative and results-oriented environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Conflicting Priorities: Balancing the demands of design perfection with the realities of construction timelines and budgets.

• Coordination Complexity: Ensuring seamless integration of diverse design disciplines (structural, architectural, MEP, etc.) and managing numerous external consultants.

• Adapting to Site Conditions: Translating sophisticated designs into buildable solutions that account for unforeseen site conditions or logistical constraints.

• Keeping Pace with Technology: Staying current with evolving design technologies, BIM advancements, and construction methodologies.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced BIM Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in BIM coordination and its application in complex projects.

• Leadership Development Programs: BESIX Watpac likely offers programs to enhance leadership, project management, and strategic decision-making skills.

• Industry Certifications: Support for obtaining or maintaining relevant professional certifications in construction management, engineering, or design.

• Cross-sector Exposure: Potential to gain experience in BESIX Watpac's diverse project portfolio, from defence infrastructure to healthcare facilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are inherent to large-scale D&C projects. The growth opportunities are directly tied to developing expertise in managing these complexities and leveraging the company's resources for professional advancement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to managing a design consultant who is consistently falling behind schedule. What steps would you take to bring them back on track?" (Focus on communication, documentation, and escalation strategies.)

• "How do you ensure that a design is not only compliant but also highly constructible and cost-effective? Provide an example." (Highlight your process for constructability reviews and collaboration with trade subcontractors.)

• "Imagine a significant design conflict arises between structural and MEP engineers late in the design phase. How would you facilitate a resolution that minimizes project impact?" (Emphasize your mediation skills, problem-solving approach, and understanding of project priorities.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "Based on your research, what do you see as BESIX Watpac's key strengths in the Australian construction market, and how would your role as Design Manager contribute to these?" (Showcase your understanding of their projects and market position.)

• "How do you foster a collaborative environment between design teams and site-based construction personnel?" (Discuss your communication strategies and emphasis on shared goals.)

• "Describe a time you had to champion a new design process or technology. What was the outcome?" (Demonstrate your proactivity and ability to drive change.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Frame your portfolio case studies as narratives – the challenge, your actions, and the positive results. Use clear, concise language.

• Visual Aids: For digital presentations, use high-quality images, diagrams, or BIM models to illustrate your points. For physical portfolios, ensure clean, professional layouts.

• Quantify Everything Possible: Back up your claims with data. Numbers speak volumes in operations roles – show cost savings, time efficiencies, or quality improvements.

• Focus on Process: Don't just show the final product; explain your process of design management, how you navigated complexities, and how you collaborated.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating not only technical competence but also strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills, all within the context of delivering complex construction projects. Be ready to discuss specific projects and your tangible contributions.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on jobs.smartrecruiters.com.

• Tailor Your Resume: Clearly highlight your experience with large-scale Design & Construct (D&C) building projects, your roles in managing design consultants, and any achievements related to constructability improvements, regulatory compliance, and quality control. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a portfolio showcasing 2-3 of your most relevant D&C projects. For each, detail your specific responsibilities, design challenges, solutions implemented, and quantifiable project outcomes (budget, schedule, quality).

• Practice Your Presentation: Rehearse presenting your portfolio case studies, focusing on clear communication, structured storytelling, and highlighting your process and collaborative approach. Be ready to answer strategy and behavioral questions.

• Research BESIX Watpac: Familiarize yourself with their company history, values, recent projects (especially in Queensland), and their approach to sustainability and community impact. Understand how your role contributes to their mission.

⚠️ 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.

---