Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager

Company: CoMade (Eagles Engineers)

Location: Melbourne (South Bank), Victoria, Australia

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Engineering & Design Management (Power Infrastructure)

Date Posted: August 10, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the end-to-end engineering design lifecycle for complex power infrastructure projects, including major transmission lines, substations, and grid connections.

• Coordinate and integrate multidisciplinary engineering inputs (electrical, civil, structural, protection & control, HVAC, SCADA) into cohesive, constructible solutions.

• Establish and manage critical design documentation, including Work Breakdown Structures, Design Packages, and Master Deliverables Lists.

• Drive safety and quality through structured design review processes and HAZID/HAZOP workshops at each design gate.

• Serve as the principal technical liaison for clients and Network Service Providers (NSPs) on design and program matters.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Design Manager," the core responsibilities and required experience strongly align with a Senior Design Engineering Manager or Lead Design Engineer role within the power infrastructure sector, focusing on project delivery and multidisciplinary coordination. The "CoMade" entity seems to be the parent, with "Eagles Engineers" being the specific operational unit.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Provide overall design leadership, ensuring seamless integration of all discipline-specific designs (electrical primary/secondary, civil, structural, protection & control, HVAC/fire, LV/security, SCADA) into a unified engineering solution.

• Develop and implement comprehensive project-specific design management plans, including Work Breakdown Structures, Design Packages, Schedule of Design Deliverables, and Master Deliverables/Documents List.

• Oversee and execute staged design review processes, encompassing designer Quality Assurance (QA), internal constructability/cost/systems reviews, and external Client/NSP/independent reviews.

• Proactively manage design issue, risk, and comment registers, driving them to successful close-out at each design gate.

• Chair and facilitate Safety in Design (SiD) workshops and Hazard Identification (HAZID)/Hazard and Operability (HAZOP) studies at all critical design gates (concept, developed design, Issued for Construction - IFC).

• Lead and coordinate Package Managers, discipline leads, and Project Controls personnel according to the project organization chart, actively supporting resource planning and addressing capability gaps across the project pipeline.

• Act as the primary design point of contact for the client and Network Service Provider (NSP) on all technical and program-related matters, including managing third-party approval submissions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on Safety in Design (SiD) and HAZID/HAZOP workshops at each design gate highlights a rigorous risk management approach critical in high-voltage infrastructure projects. The responsibility for establishing and managing the Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) and Design Management Plan indicates a strong project management component within the design function.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical, Structural, or Civil) or a related technical discipline.

• Chartered Professional Engineer (CPEng) status, MIEAust, or equivalent international professional engineering accreditation is highly desirable. Experience:

• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in design management or senior design engineering roles, specifically within power system infrastructure.

• Demonstrated track record in the successful delivery of substation design (both AIS/GIS, primary and secondary systems), overhead transmission line design, or comparable complex multidisciplinary infrastructure projects.

• Proven experience in managing and delivering projects through distinct design gates (Concept/30%, Design Development/80%, IFC) within a fee-for-service consultancy framework.

• Experience managing client and Network Service Provider (NSP) review cycles and incorporating their feedback effectively. Required Skills:

• Design Leadership: Proven ability to lead and integrate multidisciplinary engineering teams.

• Power Infrastructure Expertise: Deep understanding of power system design principles, including substations (AIS/GIS) and transmission lines.

• Safety in Design (SiD): Demonstrated experience in facilitating SiD workshops and managing hazard/risk registers.

• Project Controls Integration: Familiarity with project controls, scheduling, and resource planning within a design context.

• Client & Stakeholder Management: Excellent client-facing communication and stakeholder engagement skills.

• Standards & Compliance: Working knowledge of applicable Australian/New Zealand standards (AS/NZS) and utility/NSP functional specifications and approval processes (e.g., ElectraNet or equivalent).

• Risk Management: Proficient in identifying, assessing, and mitigating design risks.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with specific Australian NSP approval processes.

• Proficiency in project management software and tools.

• Knowledge of SCADA, HVAC, and fire protection systems relevant to power infrastructure.

• Experience in a consultancy or engineering services environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for Chartered status and 10+ years of experience indicates a senior-level role demanding significant technical depth and leadership capability within the power infrastructure design domain. The emphasis on specific standards like AS/NZS and NSP processes highlights the need for localized knowledge.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Management Plans: Examples of comprehensive Design Management Plans developed for complex infrastructure projects, detailing scope, deliverables, schedule, and resource allocation.

• Staged Design Gate Reviews: Documentation showcasing participation in and management of design reviews at various stages (Concept, 30%, 80%, IFC), including review comment resolution and sign-off processes.

• Safety in Design (SiD) & HAZID/HAZOP: Case studies demonstrating leadership in SiD workshops and HAZID/HAZOP sessions, including the creation and management of hazard/risk registers and the implementation of mitigation strategies.

• Multidisciplinary Integration: Evidence of successfully integrating diverse engineering discipline inputs (electrical, civil, structural, etc.) into a single, coherent design package, particularly for power infrastructure.

• Deliverable Management: Examples of Master Deliverables Lists, Work Breakdown Structures (WBS), and Design Package structures used to manage project documentation and engineering output.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design and Optimization: Showcase experience in designing and optimizing engineering design workflows, from concept generation through to Issued for Construction (IFC) documentation.

• Implementation and Automation: Detail processes for implementing design reviews, managing stakeholder feedback, and any use of automation or digital tools to enhance design delivery efficiency.

• Measurement and Performance Analysis: Provide examples of how design processes were measured for efficiency, quality, and adherence to schedule, and how performance data was used for continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role, a portfolio should not only showcase completed projects but also the candidate's methodology, process thinking, and ability to manage complex workflows. Demonstrating leadership in safety and risk management through documented processes is crucial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for a Design Manager with 10+ years of experience in power infrastructure in Melbourne, Australia, the estimated annual salary range is AUD $160,000 - $220,000. This range accounts for the seniority of the role, specialized technical expertise, and the complexity of projects managed. Benefits:

• Hybrid Working Arrangements: Flexibility to balance office-based collaboration with remote work.

• Professional Development Opportunities: Support for ongoing learning, training, and career advancement.

• Competitive Compensation Packages: Including base salary, potential bonuses, and other financial incentives.

• Collaborative Team Environment: A supportive and close-knit team culture where contributions are valued.

• Exposure to High-Profile Projects: Opportunity to work on significant and technically complex energy infrastructure initiatives.

• On-site Amenities: Barista-style coffee and fresh fruit readily available.

• Convenient Location: Offices located within close proximity to public transport.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are expected, likely around 40 hours per week, with the flexibility offered by the hybrid work arrangement.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimation is based on data from reputable Australian job boards and salary survey providers for similar engineering management roles in Melbourne. The benefits listed are directly from the provided description and are tailored to appeal to experienced professionals.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering, Construction, Energy Infrastructure, Design Management, Project Delivery. Eagles Engineers operates within the critical energy sector, focusing on the design and delivery of high-voltage power infrastructure.

Company Size: CoMade is described as a strategic partner, and Eagles Engineers is presented as a growing business. While specific numbers aren't provided, the emphasis on a "close-knit, collaborative team environment" and "opportunities to shape processes, systems, or team growth" suggests a mid-sized to growing organization rather than a large conglomerate.

Founded: The founding date is not specified, but the description implies a company that has established itself and is now in a phase of growth and system refinement.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager will likely lead a multidisciplinary team of engineers (electrical, civil, structural, protection & control, etc.) and potentially coordinate with Package Managers and Project Controls specialists.

• Reporting to senior project leadership or a Director of Engineering, with direct interaction with client representatives and Network Service Providers.

• Collaboration is expected across various engineering disciplines, project management, procurement, construction, and commissioning teams. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Emphasis on using engineering data and analysis to inform design decisions and ensure constructability and efficiency.

• Structured Project Delivery: Adherence to established project lifecycle stages, design gates, and review processes.

• Risk-Based Approach: Proactive management of safety and technical risks through formal workshops and registers.

• Client-Centric Solutions: Focus on meeting client requirements, regulatory standards, and Network Service Provider specifications.

Company Website: https://www.eaglesengineers.com.au/ (derived from domain)

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture appears to value strong technical expertise, collaborative problem-solving, and a direct impact on project success. The "growing business" aspect suggests opportunities for individuals to influence and shape operational processes and team development.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior-level position within the engineering design function. It's a step beyond a Senior Design Engineer, requiring leadership, strategic planning of design activities, and extensive stakeholder management. The scope includes ownership of the entire design lifecycle for major projects.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will likely report to a Project Director, Engineering Director, or a similar senior leadership role. They will manage and coordinate the work of multiple discipline leads, Package Managers, and potentially junior design engineers. Direct interaction with clients and Network Service Providers is a key aspect of this role's reporting and communication structure.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's impact is critical to the successful delivery of power infrastructure projects. Effective design management ensures projects are delivered safely, on time, within budget, and to the required technical specifications. This directly influences the client's ability to realize their vision, the company's reputation, and its ability to secure future work. Their work supports the operational readiness and efficiency of the energy grid.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential progression to roles such as Principal Design Manager, Director of Engineering, or broader Project Director positions, managing larger programs of work or entire project portfolios.

• Specialization: Deepening expertise in specific areas of power infrastructure design or project delivery methodologies.

• Process Improvement: Opportunities to lead initiatives in developing and refining design processes, systems, and tools, contributing to the company's growth and operational efficiency.

• Mentorship: Opportunity to mentor and develop junior engineers and design staff.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Opportunities to shape processes, systems, or team growth" mentioned in the benefits section directly points to significant growth potential beyond the core design management responsibilities, allowing individuals to contribute to the strategic development of the organization.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Melbourne (South Bank) with a hybrid working arrangement. This suggests a professional office environment that supports collaborative work, design reviews, and team meetings, balanced with the flexibility of remote work.

Office Location(s): Melbourne (South Bank), Victoria, Australia. The description notes offices are "within 1 minute of public transport," indicating good accessibility for employees.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The office space is designed to foster close-knit teamwork and cross-functional collaboration, essential for integrating diverse engineering inputs.

• Operational Tools & Technology: Access to necessary design software, project management tools, and communication platforms will be provided to support efficient design delivery.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for direct interaction with project teams, discipline leads, and management for real-time problem-solving and decision-making.

Work Schedule: A standard full-time schedule (approx. 40 hours/week) is expected, with the hybrid model offering flexibility in where and potentially when work is performed, provided project deadlines and collaboration needs are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "barista style coffee" and "fresh fruit" suggests a workplace that values employee well-being and comfort, contributing to a positive and productive environment.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and cover letter to assess qualifications, experience, and alignment with core requirements.

• Technical Interview(s): In-depth discussions focusing on design management experience, technical expertise in power infrastructure, understanding of design gates, SiD/HAZID/HAZOP facilitation, and project delivery methodologies. Candidates will likely be asked to walk through specific project examples.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where candidates present selected case studies from their portfolio, demonstrating their approach to design leadership, problem-solving, and process management.

• Cultural Fit & Team Interview: Meeting with potential team members and senior management to assess collaboration style, communication skills, and alignment with company values.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior executive to discuss strategic fit and long-term contribution.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Select Projects: Choose 2-3 complex power infrastructure projects that best showcase your design management capabilities, problem-solving skills, and leadership.

• Structure Case Studies: For each project, clearly outline the challenge, your role and responsibilities, the design process followed (especially design gates and SiD), key decisions made, multidisciplinary coordination efforts, and the ultimate outcomes (e.g., successful IFC, cost/schedule adherence, safety record).

• Quantify Achievements: Where possible, use metrics to demonstrate impact – e.g., "Reduced design review cycles by X%," "Managed a design budget of AUD $Y million," "Successfully integrated Z engineering disciplines."

• Highlight Process Expertise: Emphasize your process for developing Design Management Plans, conducting reviews, managing risks, and facilitating safety workshops.

• Prepare for Q&A: Be ready to discuss your decision-making process, how you handle conflicting requirements, and your approach to managing challenging stakeholders.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for scenario-based questions related to managing design conflicts, mitigating project risks, or responding to client change requests.

• Consider how you would approach setting up a Design Management Plan for a hypothetical complex power project.

• Think about your approach to fostering a collaborative and safety-conscious design culture within a multidisciplinary team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio review and case study presentation suggests that demonstrating practical application of skills and process knowledge is as important as listing them on a resume. Candidates should be ready to articulate their methodologies clearly and concisely.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency with industry-standard CAD platforms (e.g., AutoCAD, Bentley MicroStation) for reviewing and understanding design outputs.

• 3D Modeling/BIM: Familiarity with Building Information Modeling (BIM) or 3D modeling tools relevant to infrastructure design (e.g., Revit, Navisworks) for design coordination and clash detection.

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

• Document Management Systems: Familiarity with platforms for managing large volumes of technical documentation and revisions (e.g., SharePoint, Aconex, Procore).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Design Review Management Tools: Systems or spreadsheets used to track design issues, comments, and resolutions.

• Risk Management Software/Tools: Applications or frameworks for maintaining and updating risk registers.

• Reporting Dashboards: Experience in utilizing or contributing to dashboards that track design progress, key performance indicators (KPIs), and project status.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design inputs impact client relationships is key. Familiarity with client communication platforms or systems used for managing client interactions may be beneficial.

• Workflow Automation: Any experience with automating repetitive design review tasks or data compilation processes would be a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific software isn't listed, the role implies a need for familiarity with standard engineering design and project management software suites used in large-scale infrastructure projects. The ability to manage and interpret data from these systems for reporting and decision-making is essential.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: A paramount value, demonstrated through rigorous SiD processes and a culture where safety is prioritized in all design decisions.

• Excellence in Delivery: Commitment to high-quality engineering, meeting technical specifications, and delivering projects efficiently and on time.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a close-knit environment where engineers from different disciplines work together effectively, share knowledge, and support each other.

• Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding high ethical standards and professional conduct in all interactions with clients, colleagues, and stakeholders.

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: Encouraging new ideas and actively seeking ways to improve design processes, systems, and project outcomes.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: A strong emphasis on breaking down silos between engineering disciplines and project phases (design, procurement, construction, commissioning).

• Proactive Communication: Encouraging open and frequent communication, especially during design reviews and problem-solving sessions.

• Feedback Culture: A willingness to provide and receive constructive feedback to drive continuous improvement in design quality and team performance.

• Shared Ownership: Promoting a sense of collective responsibility for project success, where team members feel empowered to contribute and raise concerns.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's stated vision to be the "foremost project delivery partner" and its emphasis on "Strong culture and core values" suggest that cultural fit and adherence to these values are highly important to Eagles Engineers.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Multidisciplinary Complexity: Integrating diverse engineering inputs, standards, and priorities from multiple disciplines into a cohesive and constructible design.

• Stakeholder Alignment: Balancing the requirements and expectations of clients, Network Service Providers, internal teams, and regulatory bodies.

• Evolving Standards & Technology: Keeping pace with changes in industry standards, new technologies, and client specifications in the rapidly evolving power infrastructure sector.

• Resource Management: Ensuring adequate staffing and capability within the design teams to meet project demands and address potential gaps.

• Process Optimization: Continuously refining existing design processes and workflows to enhance efficiency, quality, and safety in a growing business.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Opportunities to deepen knowledge in specific areas of power system design, grid modernization, or emerging technologies.

• Leadership & Management Skills: Development programs focused on enhancing leadership, strategic planning, and stakeholder management capabilities.

• Industry Exposure: Involvement in high-profile, technically complex projects that offer significant learning experiences.

• Process Improvement Initiatives: Leading or participating in projects aimed at enhancing the company's design methodologies, tools, and systems.

• Professional Accreditation Support: Potential support for maintaining or advancing professional engineering certifications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for senior design management roles in complex infrastructure projects, offering ample opportunity for professional growth and skill development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Strategy: "Describe your approach to developing a Design Management Plan for a major substation project. What are the critical components you would include?" (Focus on WBS, deliverables, reviews, SiD, stakeholder engagement).

• Risk Management: "Walk me through a time you identified and mitigated a significant design risk on a power infrastructure project. What was your process, and what was the outcome?" (Highlight SiD, HAZID/HAZOP, risk registers).

• Multidisciplinary Coordination: "How do you ensure effective communication and integration between electrical, civil, and structural engineering teams on a complex project? Provide an example." (Focus on collaboration, review processes, conflict resolution).

• Client Management: "Describe your experience acting as the primary design point of contact for a client and NSP. How do you manage their expectations and ensure approvals are obtained efficiently?" (Emphasize communication, technical expertise, understanding approval processes).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Based on your understanding, how does Eagles Engineers' approach to safety in design align with your own professional values and experience?"

• "How would you contribute to fostering a 'close-knit, collaborative team environment' as described in our values?"

• "What are your thoughts on opportunities to 'shape processes, systems, or team growth' within a growing company like ours?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Project Selection: Choose projects that clearly demonstrate your ability to manage the entire design lifecycle, from concept to IFC, and involve complex multidisciplinary power infrastructure.

• Structure: For each case study, follow a clear narrative: Project Overview -> Your Role & Responsibilities -> Key Challenges -> Design Process & Methodology (including SiD, reviews) -> Solutions & Outcomes -> Lessons Learned.

• Visuals: Use diagrams, flowcharts, or key design drawings (if permissible) to illustrate your points and processes.

• Quantify: Emphasize metrics related to project delivery, efficiency gains, safety improvements, or cost/schedule adherence.

• Focus on Leadership: Highlight how you led teams, managed stakeholders, and drove the design process forward.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be assessing not just technical knowledge but also leadership capability, problem-solving skills, and the ability to operate effectively within a structured yet growing organization that prioritizes safety and collaboration.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided Workday link: https://comade.wd103.myworkdayjobs.com/CoMade_External/job/Melbourne-South-Bank/Design-Manager_JR100255

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight your 10+ years of experience in power infrastructure design management, specifically mentioning substation and transmission line projects. Ensure keywords like "Design Management," "Safety in Design," "HAZID/HAZOP," "Multidisciplinary," "IFC," and relevant AS/NZS standards are prominent.

• Portfolio Preparation: Select and prepare 2-3 key projects for your portfolio review. Focus on demonstrating your process for managing design gates, conducting SiD workshops, integrating multidisciplinary teams, and delivering projects to IFC. Be ready to quantify your achievements.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Eagles Engineers and CoMade's projects, values, and mission. Understand their focus on end-to-end solutions and their commitment to culture. Research common Network Service Provider requirements in Victoria.

• Interview Practice: Prepare to discuss your experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions. Practice articulating your design strategies, risk management approaches, and leadership style.

⚠️ 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.