Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager - Linear Water & Wastewater

Company: Hatch

Location: Mississauga, ON, Canada

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Engineering / Design Management

Date Posted: 2026-08-17

Experience Level: 15+ Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the design and delivery of complex municipal water and wastewater linear infrastructure projects, ensuring technical excellence and client satisfaction.

• Manage multidisciplinary engineering and design teams throughout the project lifecycle, from feasibility studies to Issued for Construction (IFC) deliverables.

• Oversee the complete design lifecycle, balancing technical, commercial, regulatory, environmental, stakeholder, and constructability requirements.

• Drive innovation and efficiency in design solutions, contributing to better project outcomes and improved delivery processes.

• Foster a collaborative and high-performing team environment, mentoring emerging professionals in design management.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is specifically focused on linear water and wastewater infrastructure, requiring deep expertise in municipal systems, including transmission mains, trunk sewers, force mains, pumping stations, and utility corridors. The emphasis on "Project Delivery Group (PDG)" suggests a strong focus on execution and client-facing responsibilities within a project management framework.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Accountable for developing and validating project technical scope, working with discipline leads to define design requirements and execution strategies.

• Lead proposal development, fee estimates, resource planning, and project startup activities post-contract award.

• Align project deliverables with the Senior Project Management Team, establishing design criteria and technical requirements across all engineering disciplines.

• Direct multidisciplinary design teams through feasibility studies, preliminary design, detailed design, and Issued for Construction (IFC) deliverables for linear infrastructure projects.

• Manage the complete design lifecycle, ensuring integration of technical, commercial, regulatory, environmental, stakeholder, and constructability considerations.

• Develop and implement comprehensive project design management plans, contributing to overall project execution strategies.

• Ensure seamless communication between project management, design teams, clients, regulatory agencies, utility owners, and external stakeholders.

• Lead interdisciplinary design reviews, constructability reviews, value engineering sessions, and robust quality assurance processes.

• Resolve complex technical issues and provide expert guidance on codes, standards, permitting requirements, and industry best practices.

• Promote design excellence, uphold quality management standards, and ensure compliance with Hatch's design governance procedures.

• Coordinate design verification and validation activities to confirm alignment with project objectives and client expectations.

• Identify and champion innovative and value-added design solutions to enhance project outcomes and delivery efficiency.

• Monitor design schedules, budgets, and overall project performance throughout all execution phases.

• Develop and manage detailed design budgets, scopes of work, and associated resource requirements.

• Coordinate construction phasing, utility relocations, tie-ins, traffic management, and stakeholder interface requirements as they pertain to project design.

• Lead design-related change management activities, assessing impacts on cost, schedule, risk, and scope.

• Support project risk management initiatives by proactively identifying and mitigating design-related risks.

• Participate in Hatch's Design Management Community of Practice, mentoring junior Design Managers and Project Engineers.

• Provide senior oversight during construction, liaising between contract administration and engineering teams to resolve field design issues, technical queries, and non-conformance matters.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on technical design leadership and project management execution. The explicit mention of "linear infrastructure" and specific project types (water transmission mains, trunk sewers, etc.) signifies a specialized role within the broader engineering and construction sector. The emphasis on stakeholder management and client communication is crucial for success.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Civil, Environmental, or Water Resources Engineering.

Experience: Minimum 15 years of progressive experience leading the design and delivery of major municipal water and wastewater infrastructure projects, from planning and preliminary design through detailed design and construction.

Required Skills:

• Proven leadership in managing multidisciplinary teams on large-scale linear infrastructure projects, including watermains, transmission mains, trunk sewers, force mains, pumping stations, and utility corridor projects.

• Strong understanding of municipal infrastructure planning, utility coordination, permitting requirements, environmental assessments, geotechnical considerations, and construction methodologies.

• Expert knowledge of engineering design processes and design integration for municipal water and wastewater systems.

• Familiarity with municipal, provincial, and industry design standards, guidelines, and regulatory frameworks specific to water and wastewater infrastructure in Canada.

• Demonstrated experience conducting rigorous design reviews, quality control reviews, and technical oversight of work performed by internal teams and subconsultants.

• Advanced analytical and problem-solving skills, with a strong ability to evaluate alternatives and resolve complex infrastructure design challenges.

• Proficiency in AutoCAD, Civil 3D, GIS platforms, Microsoft Office Suite, and other relevant engineering software for design and analysis.

• Ability to interpret complex contract documents, engineering drawings, technical specifications, and project schedules accurately.

• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with a proven ability to effectively engage clients, regulatory authorities, utility agencies, and diverse project stakeholders.

• Demonstrated leadership experience in team development, mentorship, performance management, and decisive leadership.

• High emotional intelligence (EQ) with a proven capacity to build strong relationships, inspire teams, and foster a collaborative work environment.

• Strong conflict resolution and stakeholder management skills, consistently maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and integrity. Preferred Skills:

• P.Eng. designation in Ontario, or eligibility to obtain registration.

• Experience delivering projects through alternative and collaborative delivery models, such as Progressive Design-Build, Alliance, Integrated Project Delivery (IPD), and Construction Management.

• PMP® designation or equivalent project management experience.

• Experience working directly with municipal clients, regional governments, water authorities, or major utility owners.

• Ability to manage project controls and schedules using specialized software like MS Project and Primavera P6.

• Familiarity with digital project delivery platforms, including SharePoint, Office 365, and Power BI.

📝 Enhancement Note: The P.Eng. designation is highly valued, particularly in Ontario, emphasizing the need for professional engineering accountability. The preference for alternative delivery models suggests the company is involved in complex, modern project structures requiring adaptable leadership.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a history of successfully managed linear water and wastewater projects, detailing scope, budget, and timeline.

• Provide evidence of leading multidisciplinary design teams, highlighting collaboration and problem-solving approaches.

• Include examples of design management plans and their successful implementation on complex infrastructure projects.

• Demonstrate a track record of effective stakeholder engagement and conflict resolution within project contexts.

• Present case studies that illustrate innovative design solutions and their impact on project efficiency and outcomes. Process Documentation:

• Documented workflows for managing the design lifecycle from concept to construction support.

• Frameworks for conducting design reviews, constructability assessments, and value engineering exercises.

• Methodologies for risk identification, assessment, and mitigation within design processes.

• Procedures for quality assurance and compliance with engineering standards and governance.

• Examples of change management processes applied to design modifications and their impact analysis.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this senior role, the portfolio should not just list projects but demonstrate a strategic approach to design management. Candidates should be prepared to articulate their process for leading teams, managing risks, and ensuring quality on large-scale infrastructure projects.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $131,000 - $181,000 CAD per year

Benefits:

• Performance-based incentives, recognizing contributions to project success.

• Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision coverage.

• Flexible work environment, supporting work-life balance.

• Long-term career development opportunities and professional growth pathways.

Working Hours: Approximately 40 hours per week, with flexibility often required to meet project deadlines and client needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is based on Hatch's disclosure and aligns with industry benchmarks for a Design Manager with 15+ years of experience in a major metropolitan area like Mississauga. The total rewards package emphasizes not only compensation but also career progression and well-being, aligning with a professional engineering environment.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering, Consulting, Mining, Energy, Infrastructure, Project Delivery. Hatch operates across a broad spectrum of heavy industries, with a strong focus on sustainable solutions and positive change.

Company Size: Over 10,000 employees globally, operating in 150 countries. This indicates a large, established organization with significant resources and international reach.

Founded: Over 70 years ago, signifying a long history of expertise and stability in its core sectors.

Team Structure:

• The role sits within the Project Delivery Group (PDG), a specialized team focused on world-class project delivery.

• The Design Manager reports to the Project Director, indicating a hierarchical structure within project teams.

• The role requires leadership of multidisciplinary engineering and design teams, implying a matrixed reporting structure for team members.

• Collaboration with technical specialists, project managers, and construction teams is integral. Methodology:

• Hatch emphasizes practical, safe, innovative, and sustainable solutions.

• The PDG leverages methodologies, governance, and systems that are described as unparalleled in the engineering space.

• A focus on data-driven decision-making, workflow optimization, and automation for efficiency is implied by the nature of project delivery.

Company Website: https://www.hatch.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Hatch's global presence and long history suggest a stable, reputable employer with a strong commitment to engineering excellence and sustainability. The Project Delivery Group likely operates with robust project management frameworks and a focus on client outcomes.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior-level management position, requiring extensive experience and leadership capabilities. It's a critical role in project execution, bridging technical design with commercial and operational realities.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager reports to a Project Director and leads multidisciplinary teams. This structure allows for significant autonomy in design execution while ensuring alignment with overall project objectives.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct impact on the success of major infrastructure projects, influencing technical feasibility, cost-effectiveness, schedule adherence, and client satisfaction. Effective design management is foundational to project delivery and Hatch's reputation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Advancement to Senior Design Manager, Project Director, or other senior leadership roles within the Project Delivery Group.

• Specialization in advanced project delivery models (e.g., IPD, Design-Build).

• Opportunities to contribute to Hatch's Design Management Community of Practice, shaping internal standards and best practices.

• Mentorship roles for emerging engineering and design professionals, developing leadership skills.

• Potential for involvement in business development and client relationship management.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role represents a significant career step, offering leadership responsibility and the opportunity to shape major infrastructure projects. Growth is likely tied to demonstrated success in project delivery, client management, and team leadership.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid work environment, indicating a blend of remote work and in-office presence. This suggests a modern approach to work-life balance and collaboration.

Office Location(s): The primary office for this role is in Mississauga, Ontario. This location is a significant hub for engineering and infrastructure projects in the Greater Toronto Area.

Workspace Context:

• The Mississauga office likely provides a professional and collaborative environment for engineering teams.

• Access to necessary design software, technology, and shared resources for project execution.

• Opportunities for face-to-face collaboration with project teams, discipline leads, and senior management.

• The hybrid model allows for focused individual work at home and collaborative problem-solving and team meetings in the office.

Work Schedule: Standard professional work schedule (approx. 40 hours/week), but project demands may necessitate flexibility, including occasional extended hours or weekend work during critical project phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model is a key aspect of the work environment, offering flexibility while requiring strong self-management and communication skills to maintain team cohesion and project momentum.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and cover letter to assess experience against core requirements.

• Technical Interview: Discussion with hiring managers and/or senior engineers focusing on design management experience, technical expertise in water/wastewater infrastructure, and problem-solving capabilities. Be prepared to discuss specific projects and challenges.

• Behavioral Interview: Assessment of leadership style, emotional intelligence, collaboration skills, and stakeholder management approach. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to provide concrete examples.

• Portfolio Review: Presentation of selected projects, focusing on your role, design challenges, solutions implemented, and project outcomes.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a Project Director or senior executive to assess strategic fit and cultural alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Select 3-5 key projects that best demonstrate your experience with linear water and wastewater infrastructure and your design management capabilities.

• For each project, clearly articulate your specific responsibilities, the technical challenges faced, the design solutions you championed, and the measurable outcomes (e.g., cost savings, schedule improvements, enhanced performance).

• Be prepared to discuss your process for leading multidisciplinary teams, managing risks, and ensuring quality assurance.

• Highlight your approach to client and stakeholder management, including conflict resolution strategies.

• Ensure your presentation is concise, visually engaging, and clearly articulates your impact. Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss hypothetical design challenges related to complex linear infrastructure projects.

• Prepare to outline your approach to developing design scopes, managing budgets, and mitigating risks.

• Practice articulating your leadership philosophy and how you foster collaboration and innovation within a team.

• Research Hatch's recent projects and company values to demonstrate your understanding of their work and culture.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process will likely scrutinize not only technical qualifications but also leadership and interpersonal skills, particularly emotional intelligence and collaborative abilities. A well-curated portfolio is essential for demonstrating practical experience and impact.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: AutoCAD, Civil 3D for detailed design and drafting.

• GIS Platforms: For spatial analysis, mapping, and utility coordination.

• Project Management Software: MS Project, Primavera P6 for scheduling and controls.

• Collaboration Platforms: SharePoint, Office 365 for document management and team collaboration.

• Data Visualization: Power BI for reporting and performance analysis.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Proficiency in interpreting and utilizing data from GIS and CAD for design analysis.

• Experience with reporting tools to track project progress against schedules and budgets.

• Familiarity with analytical approaches to identify design efficiencies and risks. CRM & Automation:

• While not explicitly stated, familiarity with CRM principles for client management and sales support is beneficial.

• Understanding of workflow automation within design processes to improve efficiency.

• Experience with digital project delivery platforms and their integration into design workflows.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in industry-standard CAD and GIS software is a baseline requirement. Advanced skills in project scheduling and collaboration tools are highly desirable, especially for managing complex, multi-stakeholder projects.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Positive Change: A commitment to making a difference through impactful projects.

• Innovation: Encouraging new ideas and practical solutions.

• Sustainability: Integrating environmentally responsible practices into design and delivery.

• Collaboration: Fostering teamwork and knowledge sharing across disciplines and geographies.

• Excellence: Upholding high standards in technical delivery, safety, and client service.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional integration is key, requiring strong communication and coordination with various engineering disciplines, project managers, and construction teams.

• A culture of constructive feedback and continuous improvement, encouraging open discussion and problem-solving.

• Emphasis on knowledge sharing and mentorship to develop talent and uphold best practices across the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: Hatch's stated values emphasize a purpose-driven approach to engineering, focusing on positive impact and innovation. The collaborative style is essential for managing complex projects that involve diverse expertise and stakeholder interests.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing the inherent complexity of large-scale linear infrastructure projects with multiple interdependencies.

• Balancing competing demands from various stakeholders (clients, regulators, community groups, construction).

• Navigating evolving regulatory landscapes and environmental considerations.

• Adapting to new technologies and digital tools in design and project delivery.

• Mentoring and developing a diverse team of engineers and designers with varying experience levels. Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Access to Hatch's Design Management Community of Practice for continuous learning and best practice sharing.

• Opportunities for professional development in advanced project delivery models (e.g., IPD, Design-Build).

• Potential for training in new design software, project management tools, and leadership skills.

• Mentorship from senior leaders within Hatch, offering guidance on career progression and strategic thinking.

• Participation in industry conferences and professional development courses to stay abreast of industry trends.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant challenges that are directly tied to opportunities for professional growth. The company's commitment to continuous learning and development suggests a supportive environment for ambitious professionals.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you led a multidisciplinary team through a complex design challenge. What was your approach, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on leadership, problem-solving, and team dynamics).

• "How do you ensure design quality and compliance with regulatory standards on large infrastructure projects?" (Highlight your process for QA/QC, reviews, and adherence to codes).

• "Walk me through your experience managing design budgets and schedules for projects of similar scale to those at Hatch. What tools and strategies do you employ?" (Demonstrate project controls proficiency).

• "How do you manage conflicting stakeholder interests during the design phase of a project?" (Showcase your stakeholder management and negotiation skills). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Hatch and this specific role in the Project Delivery Group?" (Research Hatch's projects, values, and the PDG's mission).

• "How do you foster a collaborative and innovative environment within your design teams?" (Align your leadership style with Hatch's culture).

• "How do you approach mentoring junior engineers and developing talent?" (Demonstrate your commitment to team growth). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure your presentation logically: Project Overview, Your Role & Responsibilities, Key Challenges, Design Solutions & Innovations, Outcomes & Impact, Lessons Learned.

• Use clear visuals (diagrams, photos, charts) to illustrate complex concepts and project scope.

• Be concise and focus on your direct contributions and leadership.

• Prepare to answer detailed questions about your technical decisions and project management approach.

• Emphasize how your past successes align with the requirements and challenges of this role at Hatch.

📝 Enhancement Note: Be prepared to provide specific, quantifiable examples of your achievements. The interviewers will be looking for evidence of strong technical leadership, project management acumen, and a collaborative, high-EQ leadership style.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the Hatch careers portal via the provided link.

• Tailor your resume to highlight your 15+ years of experience in leading municipal water and wastewater infrastructure projects, emphasizing linear infrastructure and multidisciplinary team leadership.

• Prepare a concise cover letter that articulates your interest in Hatch, the PDG, and how your skills align with the role's core responsibilities and Hatch's values.

• Begin curating your portfolio, selecting 3-5 key projects that best showcase your design management expertise, problem-solving abilities, and project delivery success.

• Research Hatch's recent projects, particularly in the water and wastewater sector, and familiarize yourself with their company culture and commitment to sustainability.

⚠️ 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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