Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager

Company: DCOH

Location: Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Design Management / Construction Operations

Date Posted: 2026-08-28

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage the comprehensive design process for construction and development projects, from initial concept through to final handover.

• Establish and implement a robust Design Management framework, including project-specific plans, deliverables, and review gateways, ensuring alignment with strategic business objectives.

• Ensure all design outcomes are compliant, coordinated, buildable, and commercially aligned, with a strong emphasis on construction methodology, sequencing, and risk mitigation.

• Coordinate and integrate multidisciplinary design teams, including architectural, structural, civil, and building services, to achieve cohesive and efficient project solutions.

• Drive the timely resolution of design issues, RFIs, clashes, and inconsistencies through effective review and approval processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is critical for ensuring the technical and commercial viability of DCOH's construction projects. The emphasis on end-to-end design process management, compliance with Australian building codes, and the use of specific collaboration platforms like Aconex, Revizto, and Bluebeam indicates a need for a highly organized and technically proficient operations professional.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Spearhead the end-to-end design process, encompassing concept development, detailed design, construction documentation, and project handover.

• Develop, implement, and maintain the overarching Design Management framework across the division, standardizing processes and ensuring consistency.

• Create and manage project-specific Design Management Plans (DMPs), clearly defining scope, deliverables, responsibilities, and critical review milestones.

• Provide strong design leadership, ensuring all design activities are aligned with project objectives, construction methodologies, procurement strategies, and commercial drivers.

• Guarantee design documentation supports optimal buildability, constructability, safety in design principles, and efficient construction sequencing, proactively identifying and managing design-related risks and opportunities.

• Facilitate seamless integration of architectural, structural, civil, and building services disciplines into unified, functional design solutions.

• Establish and manage detailed design programs, meticulously tracking progress against key milestones, statutory approval timelines, and construction issue dates.

• Lead and facilitate critical design workshops, coordination meetings, user group sessions, and value engineering activities to optimize design solutions.

• Conduct thorough reviews and approvals of design documentation, driving the prompt resolution of design issues, Requests for Information (RFIs), clashes, and inconsistencies.

• Manage the engagement, novation, briefing, and performance of design consultants, ensuring adherence to program, quality, and contractual obligations.

• Serve as the primary point of contact for design-related matters, liaising effectively between consultants, internal project teams, subcontractors, regulatory authorities, and clients.

• Oversee the statutory approval process, ensuring designs strictly comply with the Building Code of Australia (BCA), National Construction Code (NCC), Australian Standards, and relevant authority requirements.

• Manage HSEQ-in-Design processes, ensuring sustainability requirements and targets are integrated, documented, and verified throughout the design lifecycle.

• Ensure design outcomes are financially sound, aligning with project budgets, cost plans, and procurement strategies, including active participation in value engineering and review of consultant fee claims.

• Oversee rigorous design document control and quality assurance procedures, while actively leading, mentoring, and developing the capabilities of Design Coordinators and other design team members.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a senior operations role requiring a blend of technical design oversight, project management acumen, and team leadership. The emphasis on compliance (BCA, NCC, Australian Standards), risk management, and the integration of various disciplines points to a need for deep domain expertise within the construction sector.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Tertiary qualification in Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, or a closely related discipline.

Experience: Eight to 12 years or more of progressive design management experience within the construction or major projects environment.

Required Skills:

• Demonstrated experience managing complex, multidisciplinary design teams across large-scale construction projects.

• Strong understanding of construction methodology, sequencing, procurement processes, and commercial drivers essential for project success.

• Expert knowledge of the Building Code of Australia (BCA), National Construction Code (NCC), Australian Standards, statutory approval processes, and relevant authority requirements.

• Proven leadership capabilities with a track record of effectively managing and motivating design teams.

• Excellent negotiation and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to build strong relationships and influence outcomes.

• Highly developed problem-solving, planning, and decision-making skills, crucial for navigating complex design challenges.

• Advanced ability to interpret, review, and integrate complex architectural and engineering documentation.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.

• Competency in industry-standard document control and collaboration platforms such as Aconex, Revizto, and Bluebeam. Preferred Skills:

• Experience in specific sectors DCOH operates in (residential, commercial, hospitality, real estate).

• Familiarity with sustainable design principles and certifications.

• Advanced knowledge of contract administration within construction projects.

• Experience with BIM (Building Information Modeling) workflows beyond basic clash detection.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience requirement of 8-12+ years positions this as a senior role. The explicit mention of specific software (Aconex, Revizto, Bluebeam) and regulatory knowledge (BCA, NCC, Australian Standards) is crucial for operations candidates to highlight in their applications and portfolios.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated collection of successful design management projects, showcasing the full project lifecycle from inception to completion.

• Detailed case studies demonstrating the candidate's role in managing multidisciplinary design teams and ensuring design compliance and buildability.

• Evidence of implementing and managing Design Management Plans (DMPs) and ensuring adherence to project objectives.

• Examples of how the candidate has successfully coordinated architectural, structural, civil, and building services disciplines into integrated solutions.

• Demonstrations of problem-solving skills applied to complex design challenges, including clash resolution and RFI management. Process Documentation:

• Workflows and methodologies used for establishing and maintaining a Design Management framework and project-specific DMPs.

• Examples of design programming and milestone tracking, illustrating how key project dates were achieved.

• Documentation of design workshop facilitation, coordination meetings, and value engineering sessions, including outcomes.

• Records of design document review and approval processes, highlighting quality assurance measures.

• Processes for managing consultants, ensuring performance against contractual and program requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role, a portfolio is essential to visually demonstrate project experience and process management. Candidates should prepare to walk through specific examples of how they managed design complexities, resolved issues, and ensured compliance, using the specified tools.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: AUD $140,000 - $180,000 per annum (Estimated)

Benefits:

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience.

• Opportunity to lead significant projects within a reputable construction and development company.

• Professional development and continuous learning opportunities.

• Potential for career advancement within DCOH.

• Contribution to award-winning projects, enhancing professional reputation.

• Relocation assistance may be considered for exceptional candidates.

Working Hours: Standard full-time working hours, typically 40 hours per week, with potential for occasional overtime depending on project demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: Based on industry benchmarks for a Design Manager role with 10+ years of experience in a major Australian city like Darwin, a salary range of AUD $140,000 to $180,000 is estimated. This estimate considers the seniority, responsibilities, and the specialized nature of construction design management. Benefits are inferred based on standard offerings for such positions in the Australian market.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction and Development, encompassing residential, commercial, hospitality, and real estate sectors. DCOH operates within a competitive market, emphasizing quality, buildability, and program certainty.

Company Size: Established in 1987, DCOH has grown significantly, operating across multiple states (Northern Territory and Victoria). While specific employee numbers aren't provided, its multi-state presence and project scale suggest a medium-to-large enterprise, likely employing several hundred professionals across various disciplines.

Founded: 1987. With over three decades of experience, DCOH possesses a deep understanding of the construction industry, client needs, and market dynamics. This longevity implies a culture built on stability, expertise, and client relationships.

Team Structure:

• The Design team likely includes Design Managers, Design Coordinators, and potentially specialized BIM managers or draftspersons, reporting into senior project leadership or a dedicated Head of Design/Operations.

• This role requires significant cross-functional collaboration with Project Managers, Site Managers, Estimators, Procurement teams, and external consultants.

• The reporting structure for this Darwin-based role will likely involve reporting to a State Manager or a National Design Director, with direct oversight of project-specific design coordinators. Methodology:

• Data Analysis & Insights: DCOH emphasizes data-driven decision-making, particularly concerning buildability, program certainty, and commercial outcomes. Design decisions will be informed by site constraints, material availability, cost analysis, and risk assessments.

• Workflow Planning & Optimization: The company focuses on disciplined execution, suggesting a structured approach to project planning, design sequencing, and workflow management to ensure efficiency and program certainty.

• Automation & Efficiency Practices: While not explicitly detailed, proficiency in modern collaboration platforms (Aconex, Revizto, Bluebeam) indicates an adoption of digital tools to streamline design processes, improve communication, and enhance efficiency.

Company Website: https://www.dcoh.au/

📝 Enhancement Note: DCOH's emphasis on "Building Better" suggests a culture that values quality, innovation, and client satisfaction. The company's history and multi-state operations indicate a stable, experienced organization that likely fosters a professional and results-oriented environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position represents a senior-level role within the operations and project delivery functions of DCOH. As a Design Manager, the individual will be responsible for strategic oversight of the design process, impacting project feasibility, cost, and execution. This role is crucial for translating conceptual designs into buildable realities and managing the complex interplay of technical requirements, regulatory compliance, and commercial objectives.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will likely report to a senior leadership position such as a State Manager (Northern Territory), Director of Operations, or Head of Design. They will, in turn, lead and mentor Design Coordinators and potentially other members of the design support team. This structure ensures alignment with overall company strategy while providing dedicated focus on design excellence.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's influence is paramount to the success of DCOH's projects. By ensuring compliant, coordinated, and buildable designs, they directly impact:

• Project Costs: Minimizing design-related variations, rework, and cost overruns.

• Project Timelines: Ensuring timely delivery of design documentation for procurement and construction, preventing delays.

• Project Quality: Guaranteeing that final built outcomes meet or exceed client expectations and regulatory standards.

• Risk Mitigation: Proactively identifying and addressing design-related risks, including safety and HSEQ concerns.

• Company Reputation: Contributing to the delivery of high-quality, award-winning projects that enhance DCOH's standing in the industry.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Expansion: Potential to advance to roles such as State Design Manager, Head of Design, or even a broader Project Director role overseeing multiple projects and teams.

• Strategic Involvement: Opportunity to contribute to DCOH's strategic planning, including input on future project feasibility, design innovation, and the adoption of new technologies.

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific project types (e.g., large-scale commercial, hospitality) or in emerging areas like sustainable design or advanced digital construction technologies.

• Mentorship & Training: Develop leadership skills by mentoring junior design staff, contributing to DCOH's internal training programs, and shaping the next generation of design professionals within the company.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "10+ years" experience requirement clearly marks this as a senior operations role. The growth opportunities are framed around expanding leadership scope, strategic influence, and continuous professional development within the construction operations domain.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This role is based in Darwin, Northern Territory, and is described as "On-site." This typically implies a professional office environment within DCOH's Darwin operations. The office would likely be equipped with standard office amenities, meeting rooms, and potentially dedicated spaces for project teams.

Office Location(s): Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia. Specific office address would be provided upon application or during the interview process. The location in Darwin suggests an operational hub for DCOH's activities in the Northern Territory.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role necessitates close collaboration with project management teams, subcontractors, and consultants. The workspace should facilitate this through accessible meeting rooms and open communication channels.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Expect access to essential office technology, including reliable internet, computers, and software for communication and document management. Specific operations tools like Aconex, Revizto, and Bluebeam will be critical and likely integrated into the daily workflow.

• Operations Team Interaction: Regular interaction with design coordinators, project managers, and other key stakeholders within DCOH's Darwin office will be integral to the role.

Work Schedule: The role is full-time, typically adhering to standard business hours (e.g., 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday to Friday). However, given the nature of construction projects, there may be requirements for flexibility to attend critical meetings, site visits, or address urgent design issues outside of standard hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "On-site" requirement is explicit. The workspace context emphasizes the need for collaboration and access to specific digital tools essential for design management in construction operations.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of CVs and cover letters to assess alignment with core requirements, particularly experience level, qualifications, and key skills.

• First Interview: Typically with a hiring manager or HR representative, focusing on behavioral questions, experience validation, and understanding of the candidate's career trajectory. This stage will assess cultural fit and initial suitability.

• Technical Interview/Portfolio Review: A more in-depth discussion, potentially with senior project leaders or technical experts. Candidates will be expected to present and discuss their portfolio, detailing specific projects, their role, challenges faced, solutions implemented, and outcomes achieved, with a focus on design management processes and software proficiency.

• Final Interview: May involve senior management, focusing on strategic fit, leadership potential, and final alignment with DCOH's values and long-term goals.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Project Selection: Choose 3-4 key projects that best represent your design management experience, showcasing diversity in scale, complexity, and sector if possible.

• Structure: For each project, clearly outline:

  • Project Name, Location, Budget, Timeline.
  • Your specific role and responsibilities as Design Manager.
  • Key design challenges and how they were addressed.
  • Your contribution to ensuring compliance (BCA, NCC, AS), buildability, and constructability.
  • How you managed multidisciplinary teams and coordinated different services (architectural, structural, MEP).
  • Your experience using Aconex, Revizto, Bluebeam, and other relevant tools for collaboration and document control.
  • Demonstrated outcomes: Cost savings, time efficiencies, risk mitigation, quality improvements.

• Quantify Achievements: Use metrics wherever possible (e.g., "Reduced design variations by 15%," "Delivered design documentation 2 weeks ahead of schedule," "Managed a design team of 10+ consultants").

• Process Focus: Clearly articulate the design management processes you followed, from establishing DMPs to conducting reviews and managing approvals.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for scenario-based questions asking how you would handle specific design management challenges (e.g., a significant design clash discovered late in the process, a dispute with a lead consultant, a requirement for value engineering).

• Practice articulating your problem-solving approach, emphasizing your process, decision-making rationale, and communication strategy.

• Research DCOH's recent projects and company values to tailor your responses and demonstrate genuine interest.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio review and specific software proficiency (Aconex, Revizto, Bluebeam) indicates that candidates must be prepared to demonstrate practical application of their skills, not just theoretical knowledge.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Aconex: Essential for comprehensive document control, project management, and collaboration within the construction industry. Proficiency in managing workflows, document registers, and communication logs is expected.

• Revizto: A powerful BIM collaboration platform used for issue tracking, clash detection, and model coordination. Experience in integrating BIM models and managing design issues through Revizto is highly valued.

• Bluebeam Revu: Widely used for PDF creation, editing, markup, and collaboration in construction. Proficiency in creating markups, managing revisions, and using features like Sets and Sessions is crucial.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Standard productivity tools including Word for documentation, Excel for data analysis and tracking, and PowerPoint for presentations.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly listed, expect to utilize Excel or potentially dedicated project management reporting tools for tracking design progress, identifying trends in RFIs or clashes, and reporting on key performance indicators (KPIs) related to the design process.

• Familiarity with data visualization tools could be beneficial for presenting design performance metrics. CRM & Automation:

• DCOH likely uses a CRM for client and stakeholder management, though direct interaction may be limited for this role.

• Automation within the design process might involve leveraging features within Aconex or Revizto for workflow management and notification systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of Aconex, Revizto, and Bluebeam is critical. Candidates must be able to demonstrate hands-on experience and proficiency with these specific operations tools.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Building Better: This core value implies a commitment to quality, excellence, and continuous improvement in all aspects of DCOH's work, including design management. Operations professionals are expected to uphold high standards.

• Discipline and Execution: DCOH emphasizes disciplined execution, suggesting a culture that values structure, adherence to processes, and reliable delivery. Operations roles must be organized and focused on achieving project milestones.

• Collaboration and Partnership: The company works with clients, partners, and various internal teams. A collaborative mindset and strong interpersonal skills are essential for effective stakeholder management and team integration.

• Innovation: While focused on proven methodologies, DCOH also seeks innovation. This translates to an openness to new technologies and smarter ways of working within the design and construction process.

• Value Creation: Operations professionals are expected to contribute to creating lasting value for clients and stakeholders, which means focusing on efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and quality outcomes.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role demands seamless integration with project management, construction, estimating, and procurement teams. Open communication and a proactive approach to information sharing are key.

• Process Review & Feedback: A culture that encourages constructive feedback on design processes and outcomes will help drive continuous improvement. The Design Manager should be adept at both giving and receiving feedback.

• Knowledge Sharing: Expect opportunities to share best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise across project teams and potentially within the broader DCOH organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's stated values of "Building Better" and "Disciplined Execution" suggest a professional, quality-focused, and process-driven operational environment. Candidates should align their responses with these principles.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Design Complexity: Large-scale construction projects involve intricate designs with numerous interdependencies. Effectively coordinating multidisciplinary teams and resolving clashes requires robust management skills.

• Balancing Competing Priorities: The Design Manager must balance project deadlines, budget constraints, quality standards, buildability requirements, and stakeholder expectations.

• Ensuring Regulatory Compliance: Staying abreast of and ensuring strict adherence to the BCA, NCC, Australian Standards, and evolving local authority requirements can be challenging.

• Remote Team Coordination (if applicable): While this role is on-site, DCOH operates in multiple states. If design consultants are not local, managing communication and coordination across different locations can present hurdles.

• Integrating New Technologies: Adapting to and effectively implementing new design management software or BIM workflows requires continuous learning and change management.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Management Techniques: Opportunities to refine skills in areas like BIM coordination, integrated project delivery (IPD), and advanced risk management.

• Industry Conferences & Certifications: DCOH may support participation in relevant industry events, workshops, and professional certifications (e.g., in project management, construction law, or specific software).

• Mentorship Programs: Potential to be mentored by senior leaders within DCOH or to mentor junior design staff, enhancing leadership and coaching skills.

• Exposure to Diverse Projects: Working on a range of residential, commercial, and hospitality projects provides broad experience and deepens expertise across different construction typologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: Identifying potential challenges allows candidates to prepare proactive solutions and demonstrate foresight. Growth opportunities highlight DCOH's investment in employee development and career progression.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to establishing and managing a Design Management Plan for a complex project. What are the key components you prioritize?" (Focus on process, clarity, and risk mitigation.)

• "How do you ensure effective coordination between architectural, structural, MEP, and civil disciplines? Provide an example of a challenge you resolved." (Highlight collaboration, communication, and problem-solving using tools like Revizto.)

• "Walk me through a situation where you had to implement significant value engineering into a design. What was your process, and what was the outcome?" (Demonstrate commercial acumen and ability to balance cost with design intent.)

• "How do you ensure compliance with the BCA, NCC, and Australian Standards throughout the design lifecycle?" (Emphasize systematic checks, reliance on expert consultants, and documentation.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracts you to DCOH and this specific Design Manager role?" (Research DCOH's projects, values, and mention how your experience aligns.)

• "How do you foster a collaborative environment within a design team and with external stakeholders?" (Discuss communication strategies, conflict resolution, and relationship building.)

• "How do you measure the success of your design management efforts beyond project completion?" (Focus on metrics like cost savings, time efficiencies, reduced variations, and client satisfaction.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Frame your project examples as narratives – the challenge, your actions, and the positive results.

• Visual Aids: Use screenshots from Aconex, Revizto, or Bluebeam to illustrate your points where appropriate (e.g., clash reports, document workflows, markup examples).

• Conciseness: Be prepared to present key projects within a set timeframe (e.g., 5-10 minutes per project).

• Focus on Impact: Clearly articulate the value you brought to each project – cost savings, time efficiencies, risk reduction, quality improvements.

• Tool Proficiency: Seamlessly integrate discussions of how you used Aconex, Revizto, and Bluebeam to achieve project goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on articulating specific processes, demonstrating proficiency with required tools, and quantifying achievements. Candidates should be ready to discuss how they embody DCOH's values.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your CV and a cover letter through the provided application link on Workable.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in design management within the construction sector, specifically mentioning your proficiency with Aconex, Revizto, Bluebeam, BCA, NCC, and Australian Standards.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly details your 8-12+ years of experience, focusing on achievements in managing multidisciplinary design teams, ensuring buildability, and driving compliance. Quantify your successes with metrics where possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience through the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions. Prepare a concise overview of 2-3 key projects for your portfolio presentation, ready to discuss your specific contributions and the processes you followed.

• Company Research: Thoroughly review the DCOH website, focusing on their project portfolio, company values ("Building Better"), and recent achievements. Understand their operational footprint in the Northern Territory and Victoria.

⚠️ 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.