Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager

Company: DCOH

Location: Brisbane, Queensland, Australia

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Construction Operations & Design Management

Date Posted: 2026-08-28

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage the end-to-end design process for complex construction projects, ensuring compliance, buildability, and commercial alignment from concept through to handover.

• Establish and maintain a robust Design Management framework, including project-specific plans, scope definition, deliverables, and review gateways.

• Provide expert design leadership, coordinating architectural, structural, civil, and building services disciplines to achieve integrated and constructible design solutions.

• Oversee the management of design consultants, statutory approvals, and risk identification to ensure project objectives, timelines, and quality standards are met.

• Drive collaboration and efficiency through leading design workshops, value engineering activities, and ensuring seamless document control and HSEQ integration.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is situated within the construction and development sector, specifically focusing on design management within large-scale, multidisciplinary projects. The emphasis is on translating strategic design intent into practical, buildable outcomes that align with commercial and program certainty, a core tenet of DCOH's operational philosophy.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the comprehensive design process, spanning concept development, detailed design, construction documentation, and project handover.

• Develop, implement, and enforce the division-wide Design Management framework, ensuring consistent best practices across all projects.

• Create and oversee project-specific Design Management Plans, clearly defining scope, deliverables, team responsibilities, and critical review stages.

• Deliver design leadership that directly supports project objectives, robust construction methodologies, strategic procurement, and overarching commercial goals.

• Ensure all design documentation prioritizes buildability, constructability, safety in design (HSEQ), and efficient construction sequencing, proactively identifying and mitigating design-related risks.

• Achieve fully integrated design solutions by coordinating architectural, structural, civil, and building services disciplines.

• Establish and diligently manage design programs to meet key project milestones, secure statutory approvals, and ensure timely construction issue dates.

• Facilitate and lead crucial design workshops, coordination meetings, user group sessions, and value engineering initiatives to optimize project outcomes.

• Review, approve, and manage all design documentation, driving the prompt resolution of design issues, Requests for Information (RFIs), clashes, and inconsistencies.

• Lead the engagement, novation, briefing, and performance management of external 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, authorities, and clients.

• Manage the statutory approval process, ensuring strict compliance with the Building Code of Australia (BCA), National Construction Code (NCC), Australian Standards, and all relevant authority requirements.

• Oversee Health, Safety, Environment, and Quality (HSEQ) in Design processes, embedding and verifying sustainability requirements and targets throughout the design lifecycle.

• Ensure design outcomes are commercially aligned with project budgets, cost plans, and procurement strategies, actively participating in value engineering, trade packaging, variation assessments, and consultant fee claims.

• Manage design document control and quality assurance processes, while concurrently leading, mentoring, and developing the capabilities of Design Coordinators and other design team members.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong emphasis on proactive risk management and commercial acumen, crucial for a Design Manager in the construction sector. The role requires not just technical oversight but also the ability to influence project direction through effective design leadership and strategic planning.

🎓 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 specifically within the construction or major projects environment.

Required Skills:

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

• Strong understanding of construction methodology, sequencing, procurement strategies, and commercial drivers impacting design decisions.

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

• Proven leadership, negotiation, and advanced stakeholder management capabilities.

• Highly developed problem-solving, strategic planning, and decision-making skills.

• 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 with design frameworks and Design Management Plans for large-scale developments.

• Familiarity with sustainability integration and HSEQ-in-Design principles.

• Experience in value engineering and trade packaging optimization.

• Demonstrated ability to mentor and develop junior design professionals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required experience level of 8-12 years, coupled with the specific software proficiencies (Aconex, Revizto, Bluebeam), indicates a need for a seasoned professional capable of immediately contributing to complex projects and managing established design workflows. The emphasis on BCA/NCC and Australian Standards points to a critical need for compliance expertise.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase evidence of managing the complete design lifecycle for significant construction projects, from initial concept to final handover.

• Include examples of structured Design Management Plans, detailing scope, deliverables, and key review gateways for complex projects.

• Present case studies demonstrating successful coordination of multidisciplinary design teams (architectural, structural, civil, services) into cohesive, buildable solutions.

• Provide quantifiable examples of how design decisions influenced buildability, constructability, safety in design, and construction sequencing. Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate experience in establishing and implementing robust Design Management frameworks and project-specific plans.

• Illustrate methods used for integrating HSEQ and sustainability requirements into the design process.

• Provide examples of how design programs were managed to meet critical milestones and construction issue dates.

• Showcase experience in leading value engineering initiatives and optimizing design for commercial alignment and cost efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio demonstrating end-to-end design management for large construction projects is crucial. Candidates should be prepared to articulate their process for developing and implementing Design Management Plans, coordinating multidisciplinary teams, and achieving compliance and buildability through systematic approaches.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Given the seniority of the Design Manager role (10+ years experience), the location in Brisbane, Australia, and the nature of the construction industry, a competitive salary range is estimated between AUD $150,000 - $200,000 per annum. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for similar roles in major Australian cities, considering the responsibilities of leading complex projects and managing multidisciplinary teams.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage, including medical, dental, and optical.

• Generous paid time off (annual leave, sick leave, and public holidays) in line with Australian employment standards.

• Superannuation contributions as mandated by Australian law.

• Opportunities for professional development, including further training, certifications, and attendance at industry conferences.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses and project-specific incentives.

• Access to company-provided tools and technology, including licenses for essential design and collaboration software.

Working Hours: Standard full-time working hours are typically 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday. Some flexibility may be required to attend critical meetings or address urgent design issues, particularly during peak project phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is derived from publicly available compensation data for Design Managers in the Australian construction sector, adjusted for the specified experience level and metropolitan location. Benefits are assumed to align with standard Australian corporate offerings for senior roles.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction and Development, with a strong focus on Residential, Commercial, Hospitality, and Real Estate sectors. DCOH emphasizes building high-quality projects with a commitment to buildability, program certainty, and strong on-site execution.

Company Size: DCOH operates with a significant presence across the Northern Territory and Victoria, suggesting a medium to large enterprise with established project delivery capabilities.

Founded: Established in 1987, DCOH brings decades of experience and a proven track record in delivering complex, award-winning projects.

Team Structure:

• The Design Management function likely operates as a central hub, coordinating with project management teams, site operations, and external consultants.

• Reporting structure for this role is likely to be to a senior executive, such as a General Manager or Director of Operations, with direct management of Design Coordinators and oversight of consultant teams.

• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, involving close liaison with project managers, construction managers, estimators, contract administrators, and client representatives. Methodology:

• DCOH's methodology centers on "Building Better," integrating experience, innovation, and disciplined execution to create lasting value.

• Data analysis likely informs decision-making, particularly in areas like cost control, program optimization, and risk assessment derived from past project performance.

• Workflow planning and optimization are critical, focusing on efficient design processes that lead to predictable construction outcomes.

• Automation and efficiency practices are expected, particularly through the use of advanced collaboration and document control platforms.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: DCOH's long history and award-winning projects suggest a culture that values quality, reliability, and innovation. The emphasis on "Building Better" implies a commitment to continuous improvement and client satisfaction, which will be reflected in the Design Manager's approach to process optimization and project delivery.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior leadership position within the design and project delivery function of DCOH. It is a critical role responsible for the strategic direction and execution of the design process across the company's diverse project portfolio. The Design Manager is expected to act as a subject matter expert, guiding teams and influencing project outcomes significantly.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will report to a senior executive, likely a General Manager or Director of Construction/Operations. They will lead a team of Design Coordinators and manage relationships with external design consultants.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's influence is paramount to DCOH's success. By ensuring compliant, coordinated, buildable, and commercially aligned design outcomes, they directly impact project profitability, program certainty, client satisfaction, and the company's reputation for quality construction. Effective design management minimizes costly rework, delays, and disputes during construction.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific construction sectors (e.g., hospitality, high-rise residential) or advanced design technologies.

• Leadership Advancement: Progress to a Director-level role, overseeing broader project delivery functions, or managing a larger portfolio of projects.

• Strategic Influence: Take on a more strategic role in shaping DCOH's design standards, innovation initiatives, and long-term development strategy.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for advanced certifications, executive leadership training, and participation in industry-leading forums.

📝 Enhancement Note: The Design Manager role is a pivotal point for career advancement within DCOH, offering a clear path to executive leadership within the construction operations domain. The company's commitment to "Building Better" suggests a supportive environment for professional development and skill enhancement.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia, and is expected to be an on-site position, indicating a professional office environment typical of a construction and development company.

Office Location(s): The primary office location will be in Brisbane, Queensland. DCOH also has operations in the Northern Territory and Victoria, suggesting potential for occasional travel or site visits to these regions, though the core role is Brisbane-based.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely be collaborative, fostering interaction with project management teams, estimators, and other key stakeholders involved in project delivery.

• Access to essential operations tools and technology, including industry-standard software for design management, document control, and collaboration, will be provided.

• Opportunities for direct interaction with senior leadership and cross-functional teams to discuss project strategies and design challenges will be frequent.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week from Monday to Friday is typical. However, the dynamic nature of construction projects may require occasional flexibility to attend critical meetings, site inspections, or address urgent design coordination needs outside of standard hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature of the role in Brisbane emphasizes the collaborative and hands-on approach required in construction project management. The environment will likely be fast-paced, requiring efficient communication and coordination with various project stakeholders.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of CV and cover letter to assess alignment with core requirements, particularly experience in design management, construction, and key software proficiency.

• Technical Interview: In-depth discussion focused on design management methodologies, construction processes, BCA/NCC compliance, risk management, and experience with multidisciplinary teams. Expect scenario-based questions related to complex design challenges.

• Portfolio Presentation: A dedicated session to present a curated selection of past projects, highlighting your role, design challenges, solutions, and outcomes. Focus on demonstrating your ability to manage the end-to-end design process and achieve buildable, compliant designs.

• Stakeholder/Panel Interview: Meeting with senior leadership and key project stakeholders to assess leadership capabilities, communication style, problem-solving approach, and cultural fit with DCOH's "Building Better" ethos.

• Final Offer: Following successful interviews and reference checks.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 2-3 significant projects that best showcase your design management expertise across different project types or complexities.

• Quantify Impact: For each project, clearly articulate your specific contributions, the design challenges faced, the solutions implemented, and the measurable outcomes (e.g., cost savings, program improvements, risk mitigation, compliance adherence).

• Process Focus: Detail your approach to Design Management Plans, consultant engagement, multidisciplinary coordination, risk assessment, and stakeholder communication.

• Tool Proficiency: Be prepared to discuss your experience with Aconex, Revizto, Bluebeam, and other relevant platforms, demonstrating how you leverage them for efficiency and collaboration.

• Storytelling: Frame your portfolio around a narrative that demonstrates your problem-solving skills, leadership, and ability to deliver successful design outcomes.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready for case studies or hypothetical scenarios involving design coordination issues, programming conflicts, or value engineering opportunities.

• Practice articulating your thought process for resolving design clashes, managing consultant performance, and ensuring BCA/NCC compliance under pressure.

• Prepare to discuss how you would establish a Design Management Framework for a new division or a large-scale project.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare a portfolio that not only lists projects but tells a story of their design management journey, emphasizing process, problem-solving, and quantifiable results. The interview process will likely assess both technical expertise and leadership potential.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design Management Platforms: Aconex (for document control, collaboration, and project management) is a key requirement.

• 3D Coordination & Clash Detection: Revizto (for integrating BIM models and identifying clashes) is essential for multidisciplinary coordination.

• Document Review & Markup: Bluebeam Revu (for PDF markup, collaboration, and document comparison) is expected for efficient design review processes.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Standard proficiency in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook for reporting, analysis, and communication.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While specific tools aren't listed, proficiency in using data from document control and BIM platforms for reporting on design progress, risks, and compliance will be necessary.

• Excel will likely be used for detailed analysis and custom reporting. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to the core design management function, but understanding how design interfaces with broader project management and client relationship systems may be beneficial.

• Familiarity with automation within document control or BIM workflows could be an advantage.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Aconex, Revizto, and Bluebeam is a non-negotiable requirement for this role, indicating DCOH's reliance on these platforms for efficient and coordinated design delivery in complex construction projects.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Building Better: A core DCOH value emphasizing continuous improvement, quality, and creating lasting value in all projects. This translates to a commitment to excellence in design and execution.

• Discipline and Execution: A focus on disciplined processes and strong on-site execution ensures projects are delivered reliably and efficiently. This means a structured approach to design management is expected.

• Experience and Innovation: DCOH values leveraging its extensive experience while embracing innovative solutions to deliver high-quality projects.

• Collaboration: Working effectively across disciplines and with external partners is crucial for integrating complex designs and achieving project goals.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive and Integrated: The Design Manager is expected to foster a collaborative environment, proactively engaging with project managers, consultants, and subcontractors to ensure seamless design integration.

• Feedback-Driven: A culture that encourages constructive feedback on design processes and outcomes, driving continuous improvement.

• Knowledge Sharing: Emphasis on sharing best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise across the design and project delivery teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: DCOH's core values of "Building Better" and "disciplined execution" suggest a company culture that prioritizes quality, reliability, and systematic processes. The Design Manager will need to embody these values in their leadership and approach to design management.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Complex Multidisciplinary Designs: Ensuring seamless integration and coordination across numerous architectural, structural, civil, and services disciplines on large-scale projects.

• Balancing Design, Cost, and Program: Navigating the inherent tensions between achieving optimal design quality, adhering to strict budgets, and meeting demanding project timelines.

• Stakeholder Management: Effectively engaging and aligning diverse stakeholders, including clients, consultants, subcontractors, and internal teams, each with potentially competing interests.

• Keeping Pace with Evolving Standards and Technology: Staying abreast of changes in building codes (BCA/NCC), Australian Standards, and advancements in design and BIM technologies.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced BIM & Digital Construction: Opportunities to deepen expertise in BIM workflows, digital twins, and emerging construction technologies.

• Leadership & Strategy: Access to executive leadership training and opportunities to contribute to DCOH's broader strategic planning for design and development.

• Industry Best Practices: Participation in industry conferences, workshops, and professional development programs focused on construction innovation and design management excellence.

• Mentorship: Potential to mentor junior design coordinators and contribute to building internal design capability within DCOH.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents significant challenges typical of large-scale construction projects, offering substantial opportunities for professional growth and development in a dynamic environment.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for developing and implementing a Design Management Plan for a major construction project." (Focus on structure, key elements, and stakeholder involvement.)

• "How do you ensure compliance with the BCA, NCC, and Australian Standards throughout the design process, especially when dealing with complex or novel design elements?" (Highlight your knowledge and proactive strategies.)

• "Walk us through a time you successfully managed a conflict or disagreement between design consultants or between design and site teams. What was your approach and the outcome?" (Demonstrate problem-solving and negotiation skills.)

• "How do you approach value engineering and identify opportunities to optimize design for cost and buildability without compromising quality or project objectives?" (Focus on methodology and impact.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "How do you see your approach to design management aligning with DCOH's 'Building Better' philosophy?" (Connect your values and methods to the company's ethos.)

• "Describe your experience leading and motivating multidisciplinary design teams. How do you foster collaboration and accountability?" (Highlight leadership style and team management.)

• "How do you ensure that HSEQ and sustainability considerations are integrated effectively into the design process from the outset?" (Showcase your commitment to responsible design.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Focus on Process: Clearly articulate your step-by-step approach to managing design, from initiation to completion.

• Highlight Collaboration: Emphasize how you facilitated communication and coordination among diverse teams and stakeholders.

• Quantify Achievements: Use data and metrics to demonstrate the impact of your design management efforts (e.g., reduction in RFIs, program adherence, cost savings).

• Demonstrate Tool Proficiency: Explain how you utilized Aconex, Revizto, Bluebeam, or similar tools to enhance efficiency, collaboration, and quality control.

• Tell a Story: Frame your project examples as narratives that showcase your problem-solving skills, strategic thinking, and ability to deliver successful outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to discuss their hands-on experience with DCOH's required software and demonstrate a deep understanding of construction project lifecycles, compliance requirements, and effective team leadership.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your CV and a cover letter that clearly addresses the required criteria and outlines your suitability for the role.

• Portfolio Preparation: Curate a selection of your most impactful design management projects, ensuring they showcase your experience with large-scale construction, multidisciplinary coordination, and compliance. Prepare to present these concisely, highlighting your process and quantifiable achievements.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to emphasize keywords such as "Design Management," "Construction," "BCA/NCC Compliance," "Aconex," "Revizto," "Multidisciplinary Coordination," and "Stakeholder Management." Quantify your achievements wherever possible.

• Interview Practice: Rehearse responses to common interview questions, particularly those related to your design management methodology, problem-solving approach, and experience with the specified software. Be ready to articulate your leadership style and how you embody DCOH's "Building Better" philosophy.

• Company Research: Thoroughly review DCOH's website, recent projects, and any available company news to understand their operational approach, values, and market position. This will help you tailor your application and interview responses effectively.

⚠️ 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.