Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager

Company: Civmec

Location: Perth, Western Australia, Australia

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Engineering Management / Operations

Date Posted: 2026-09-17

Experience Level: 10+ years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage the end-to-end design function for Original Equipment Manufacturing (OEM) division, Balanced Machines, focusing on materials handling equipment.

• Drive design excellence, innovation, and collaboration within a dynamic, rapidly growing engineering and construction services provider.

• Ensure meticulous, high-quality design output that supports the fabrication, assembly, testing, and installation of next-generation balanced machines, stackers, reclaimers, and shiploaders.

• Foster a culture of continuous improvement in design tools and methodologies, enhancing efficiency, effectiveness, and output.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a leadership position within an OEM division, requiring a blend of technical design expertise and people management. The emphasis on "strategic bridge between leadership and creative execution" suggests a role that translates high-level company objectives into actionable design strategies and oversees their implementation. The focus on "minds-on, hands-on" involvement implies a manager who is still technically proficient and involved in the details of design, not just delegation.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and direction to the design team, fostering accountability and driving team performance.

• Ensure adequate design resources are identified and allocated to meet project schedules and resourcing obligations for timely design delivery.

• Continuously monitor, evaluate, and implement improvements in design tools and software utilization to enhance efficiency and output.

• Assist in the development and refinement of systems and procedures to streamline engineering design methods and best practices.

• Proactively identify and report project scope or design changes, and any other issues that could adversely affect project cost or schedule, to relevant stakeholders (Lead Engineer, Engineering Management, Project Management).

• Oversee the accurate sourcing, review, management, and timely distribution of project documents, data, and information to the wider project team.

• Prepare, review, and mark-up 3D models and drawings, with a strong emphasis on safety, operability, simplicity, and cost minimization.

• Actively participate in design reviews, conceptual design studies, and estimate preparation as required by project needs.

• Review project scopes and Technical Briefs, ensuring the application of appropriate design criteria and methodologies.

• Contribute to the preparation of proposals and tender submissions as required.

• Uphold and ensure all design work meets the company’s rigorous quality expectations.

• Mentor and guide all team members, fostering professional development and knowledge sharing within the design department.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong focus on process improvement, project lifecycle management from a design perspective, and stakeholder communication. The emphasis on "safety, operability, simplicity and cost minimisation" in design output is critical for this heavy engineering context. Mentorship is a key component, indicating a desire for team development alongside project delivery.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Tertiary qualifications in Structural, Mechanical, or Civil Engineering.

• OR Certificate IV in Engineering Drafting. Experience:

• Minimum of 10 years of design/engineering experience in a relevant heavy engineering or construction services industry.

• Minimum of 5 years of experience working within a multi-discipline project team environment. Required Skills:

• Proven leadership and team management capabilities within a design engineering context.

• Expertise in 3D modelling and drawing platforms, specifically PTC Creo and Windchill.

• Strong understanding of structural, mechanical, and civil engineering principles as applied to heavy machinery.

• Experience in technical design, including the preparation and review of 3D models and drawings.

• Proficiency in identifying and managing design changes and their impact on project cost and schedule.

• Demonstrated ability to develop and improve engineering design systems and procedures.

• Excellent communication skills for reporting issues and collaborating with project teams and leadership.

• Strong commitment to quality assurance and adherence to company standards.

• Experience in mentoring and developing engineering and drafting personnel. Preferred Skills:

• Previous experience with mobile material handling equipment, such as Balance Machines, reclaimers, stackers, and shiploaders.

• Familiarity with project proposal preparation and estimation processes.

• Experience in continuous improvement methodologies applied to design workflows.

• Understanding of fabrication, assembly, and on-site installation processes for heavy equipment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for 10+ years of experience and 5+ years in multi-discipline teams, combined with specific software proficiency (PTC Creo, Windchill), indicates a need for a seasoned professional. The preference for materials handling equipment experience is a significant plus for candidates. The blend of qualifications (Engineering degree or Drafting certificate) suggests flexibility in the technical background as long as the experience is robust.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a portfolio showcasing successful end-to-end design project leadership, from concept to detailed design and documentation.

• Include examples of complex 3D models and detailed engineering drawings, highlighting proficiency in PTC Creo and Windchill.

• Present case studies of design improvements that resulted in enhanced safety, operability, simplicity, or cost reduction.

• Showcase experience in managing design resources and schedules to meet critical project timelines. Process Documentation:

• Provide evidence of contributions to the development or refinement of engineering design systems and procedures.

• Illustrate how you've monitored and implemented continuous improvement in design tools and workflows.

• Include examples of how project documents, data, and information were managed and disseminated efficiently.

• Showcase methodologies for identifying and reporting design changes and their potential impacts on project scope, cost, or schedule.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role, the portfolio should emphasize leadership and strategic oversight of the design process, not just individual technical contributions. It needs to demonstrate the ability to manage complexity, drive efficiency, and ensure quality across multiple projects and team members. Quantifiable improvements in safety, cost, and operability will be key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

The estimated salary range for a Design Manager in Perth, Western Australia, with 10+ years of experience in heavy engineering and construction, is approximately AUD $140,000 to $190,000 per annum. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for similar roles in the region, considering the specialized nature of the work in materials handling equipment and the leadership responsibilities involved. Factors such as specific qualifications, depth of experience with PTC Creo/Windchill, and proven success in managing large-scale projects can influence placement within this range.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary package.

• Genuine career development and professional upskilling opportunities.

• Generous Reward and Recognition scheme for exceptional performance.

• Accident and sickness insurance for employee well-being.

• Access to a range of lifestyle, travel, entertainment, and vehicle discounts.

• Opportunity to work on landmark projects within a diversified company. Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours are typically 40 hours per week.

• Occasional flexibility may be required to meet project deadlines and critical review periods.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on typical compensation for senior engineering management roles in Perth, Australia, within the heavy engineering and construction sectors. Specific benefits are detailed in the input, and the working hours are a standard assumption for full-time roles.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Civmec operates within the heavy engineering and construction services sector, serving the energy, resources, infrastructure, marine, and defence industries. Their Original Equipment Manufacturing (OEM) division, Balanced Machines, specifically targets materials handling solutions.

Company Size: Civmec is a substantial Australian-owned company, indicated by its involvement in large-scale projects and a diverse workforce. The description implies a company with significant operational capacity and a national presence.

Founded: While the founding date is not explicitly provided, Civmec is described as an established player with a "pipeline of more than $1 billion in current and future projects," suggesting a mature and growing organization.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager will lead the OEM division's design team, which is described as "dynamic" and "rapidly growing."

• This team likely comprises structural, mechanical, and civil engineers, as well as engineering drafters.

• The role requires acting as a "strategic bridge between leadership and creative execution," implying interaction with senior engineering management, project management, and potentially executive leadership.

• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, with responsibilities including working within "multi-discipline project teams." Methodology:

• Emphasis on "continuous improvement in the design tools utilised by the teams and identify opportunities for improvement in efficiency, effectiveness and output."

• Development and adherence to "system and procedures to facilitate engineering design methods."

• A strong focus on "safety, operability, simplicity and cost minimisation" in all design work.

• Commitment to "Company’s quality expectations."

• A "Never Assume" culture, promoting critical thinking and thoroughness.

Company Website: https://careers.civmec.com.au/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is characterized by a focus on safety, quality, efficiency, and innovation, particularly within its specialized OEM division. The "Never Assume" culture suggests a proactive and detail-oriented approach to problem-solving and execution, which is critical in heavy engineering.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is at a senior management level within the engineering and design function. It requires significant technical expertise (10+ years) combined with leadership and strategic oversight. The Design Manager is responsible for a team and influences the direction of design within a specialized division.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager reports to higher levels of engineering or project management within Civmec. They will likely have direct reports from the design engineering and drafting teams. The role also involves close collaboration with Lead Engineers and Project Managers.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's impact is critical to the successful delivery of complex materials handling equipment. Effective design directly influences project cost, schedule, safety, operability, and the overall quality and performance of the final product. Their leadership ensures that the design function aligns with business objectives and client requirements.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Progression: Potential to advance into broader engineering management roles, Head of Engineering, or program management positions within Civmec, overseeing larger teams or multiple project portfolios.

• Specialization & Expertise: Deepen expertise in the design of advanced materials handling equipment, becoming a subject matter expert within the industry.

• Process Optimization Leadership: Lead initiatives for significant process improvements and technology adoption within the design department, driving greater efficiency and innovation.

• Cross-Functional Leadership: Opportunity to move into roles with broader operational responsibilities, leveraging design insights to influence other areas of the business.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role represents a significant step in an engineering career, moving from individual contribution or team lead to managing a core function. Growth opportunities are tied to expanding leadership scope and strategic influence within the company and its specialized divisions.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role, with the primary work location likely at Civmec's Henderson facility, which houses their state-of-the-art manufacturing capabilities. The environment is expected to be a blend of office-based design work and potential site visits or interactions with the fabrication and assembly floors.

Office Location(s): Perth, Western Australia. The Henderson facility is a major hub for Civmec's operations.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will be collaborative, requiring close interaction with design engineers, drafters, project managers, and fabrication/assembly teams.

• Access to advanced design tools, including PTC Creo and Windchill, will be standard.

• The environment will be fast-paced and project-driven, typical of heavy engineering and construction projects.

• Opportunities for direct engagement with manufacturing processes, providing valuable context for design decisions. Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is likely Monday to Friday, approximately 40 hours per week.

• Flexibility may be required to attend critical design reviews, meet project milestones, or address urgent issues, particularly during peak project phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature of the role is crucial. It implies a hands-on management style and a need for direct collaboration with manufacturing and project teams, which is essential for effective design in heavy engineering.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and qualifications to assess alignment with the core requirements (education, experience, software proficiency).

• Technical Interview: Likely involves discussions around your experience with PTC Creo, Windchill, 3D modelling, and engineering principles. You may be asked to discuss specific design challenges you've overcome.

• Leadership & Management Interview: Focus on your leadership style, team management experience, ability to mentor, and how you drive continuous improvement. Questions about handling project scope changes and stakeholder communication will be common.

• Portfolio Review: You will be expected to present and discuss key projects from your portfolio, highlighting your role, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented, and the quantifiable outcomes (e.g., improvements in safety, cost, efficiency).

• Final Interview: May involve meeting with senior leadership to discuss strategic fit and long-term vision for the design function.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Leadership: Showcase projects where you led the design effort, managed a team, and influenced project outcomes.

• Quantify Impact: Use data to demonstrate the success of your designs – e.g., "reduced fabrication time by 15%," "improved equipment uptime by 10%," "achieved a 5% cost saving through design optimization."

• Technical Depth & Breadth: Include examples demonstrating your proficiency with PTC Creo and Windchill, as well as your understanding of structural, mechanical, and civil engineering principles.

• Problem-Solving: Highlight specific design challenges and how you and your team creatively and effectively solved them.

• Process Improvement: Showcase instances where you've improved design workflows, implemented new tools, or enhanced team efficiency.

• Tailor to Civmec: If possible, reference how your experience aligns with materials handling equipment or similar heavy machinery projects.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for scenario-based questions related to managing design teams, resolving interdisciplinary conflicts, or responding to urgent project demands.

• Practice articulating your design philosophy, leadership approach, and continuous improvement strategies clearly and concisely.

• Research Civmec's recent projects and their OEM division (Balanced Machines) to demonstrate genuine interest and understanding of their business.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely assess both technical design acumen and leadership capabilities. A strong portfolio that clearly articulates the candidate's impact and leadership is crucial for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• 3D Modelling Software: PTC Creo (essential, with advanced proficiency expected).

• Product Lifecycle Management (PLM): Windchill (essential, for managing design data, revisions, and workflows).

• Drawing Platforms: Standard CAD software for 2D drawings.

• Collaboration Tools: Potentially Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, or similar for project communication and document sharing.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly listed as a primary responsibility, the Design Manager will need to monitor design project performance metrics (schedule adherence, budget, quality).

• Tools for project management and reporting will likely be utilized. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to the core design function, but understanding how design data integrates into broader company systems (ERP, project management) may be beneficial.

• Automation within the design process itself (e.g., using scripting or advanced software features) would be a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in PTC Creo and Windchill is a non-negotiable requirement for this role. The ability to leverage these tools for efficient and robust design is paramount.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: A paramount value in heavy engineering, expecting all team members to prioritize safety in design decisions and practices.

• Quality & Precision: Commitment to delivering high-quality, meticulously crafted designs that meet stringent industry standards.

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: Encouraging new ideas, better methodologies, and ongoing enhancement of design tools and processes.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive environment where team members work together effectively across disciplines.

• Accountability & Ownership: Promoting a culture where individuals take responsibility for their work and its outcomes.

• "Never Assume": A core company value encouraging thoroughness, critical thinking, and verification in all tasks.

Collaboration Style:

• Highly collaborative, requiring close interaction with engineers, drafters, project managers, fabrication supervisors, and potentially clients.

• Emphasis on clear communication, proactive problem-solving, and shared responsibility for project success.

• Regular design reviews and team meetings to ensure alignment and address challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Never Assume" culture is a key differentiator and implies a need for candidates who are detail-oriented, proactive, and committed to rigorous processes.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing a Rapidly Growing Team: Scaling the design team effectively while maintaining quality and fostering a cohesive culture.

• Balancing Project Demands: Juggling multiple complex projects with competing deadlines and resource constraints.

• Integrating New Technologies: Staying abreast of and implementing advancements in design software and methodologies to maintain a competitive edge.

• Cross-Disciplinary Coordination: Ensuring seamless integration of design with fabrication, assembly, and site installation, especially in complex machinery.

• Driving Continuous Improvement: Implementing and embedding a culture of ongoing process enhancement within a potentially traditional engineering environment.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Software Training: Deepening expertise in PTC Creo and Windchill, or exploring new modules and capabilities.

• Leadership Development Programs: Formal training in management, strategic planning, and team motivation.

• Industry Conferences & Workshops: Attending events related to heavy engineering, materials handling, and design innovation.

• Mentorship: Opportunities to be mentored by senior leaders within Civmec or to mentor junior engineers, enhancing leadership skills.

• Project Variety: Exposure to a diverse range of large-scale projects that offer unique design challenges and learning experiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant opportunities for growth by tackling complex engineering challenges and leading a vital function within a growing company. The challenges are typical of a senior management role in a dynamic industry.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to leading a design team and fostering a culture of innovation and accountability. How do you handle underperforming team members?"

• "How do you ensure design deliverables meet project schedules and budget constraints, especially when faced with scope changes or unforeseen issues?"

• "Walk me through a complex design project you managed. What were the key challenges, your role in overcoming them, and the quantifiable outcomes?"

• "How do you approach continuous improvement within a design department? Provide an example of a process or tool you implemented and its impact." Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Civmec and our OEM division, Balanced Machines? How does your experience align with our work?"

• "How do you embody the 'Never Assume' culture in your work and leadership style?"

• "Describe your ideal team environment and how you foster collaboration among engineers and drafters."

• "How do you ensure safety and quality are paramount in the design process?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your presentation by project, clearly stating the project objective, your specific role and responsibilities, the design process followed, key challenges, solutions implemented, and measurable results.

• Visuals: Use high-quality 3D models, drawings, and diagrams to illustrate your work. Avoid overwhelming slides with text.

• Narrative: Tell a compelling story for each project, emphasizing your leadership and problem-solving contributions.

• Data-Driven: Quantify achievements wherever possible (e.g., cost savings, efficiency gains, safety improvements).

• Tool Proficiency: Be ready to discuss your specific use of PTC Creo and Windchill, demonstrating advanced techniques if applicable.

• Q&A: Anticipate questions about your decision-making process, how you handled trade-offs, and your collaboration with other disciplines.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating both technical expertise in design software and engineering principles, and strong leadership and strategic thinking capabilities. The portfolio is key to showcasing practical application of skills and impact.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Click the "apply" link on the Civmec careers page.

• Prepare Your CV: Ensure your CV clearly highlights your 10+ years of design/engineering experience, 5+ years in multi-discipline teams, and specific proficiency with PTC Creo and Windchill. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 key projects that best demonstrate your leadership in design management, problem-solving skills, and impact on project outcomes (cost, schedule, safety, operability). Be ready to present these in detail.

• Research Civmec: Understand their core business, their OEM division (Balanced Machines), and their company values, particularly "Never Assume."

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare answers to common interview questions focusing on leadership, technical challenges, process improvement, and your experience with relevant software and equipment types. Practice articulating your portfolio projects concisely and impactfully.

• Contact: If you have specific questions, the recruitment team can be reached at (08) 6595 5888.

⚠️ 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.

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