Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager

Company: Queensland Rail

Location: Brisbane, QLD, Australia

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Engineering & Design Management / Infrastructure Operations

Date Posted: November 4, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage multidisciplinary design teams and external consultants to deliver high-quality railway infrastructure solutions throughout the project lifecycle.

• Provide comprehensive design management services, ensuring projects meet specified Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) across scope, budget, timeframes, quality, risk management, and safety.

• Oversee the development and implementation of design packages, including rigorous design reviews, approvals, and coordination across all project disciplines.

• Manage tender and contract activities, including vendor selection, tender evaluation, variation, and invoice management, to ensure commercial and project objectives are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is critical for Queensland Rail's project delivery, requiring a seasoned professional to navigate complex infrastructure projects. The emphasis on "commercial outcomes" and "business-focused technical solutions" suggests a need for a Design Manager who can balance technical excellence with financial and strategic business objectives, a key trait in operations leadership roles.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Coordinate engineering, architectural, and construction planning professionals, along with external resources, to achieve optimal design outcomes for complex, multi-disciplinary rail projects.

• Deliver infrastructure design and planning services across all project stages, ensuring adherence to scope, budget, schedule, quality, risk management, and safety parameters.

• Engage, oversee, and manage consultants and designers, ensuring their work aligns with Queensland Rail's requirements and that designs are fully coordinated across the project.

• Lead the development and implementation of design strategies by managing essential activities, including design reviews, approvals, scope/design changes, budget monitoring, scheduling, and comprehensive project reporting.

• Participate in, coordinate, and manage tender and contract activities, such as vendor panel selection, tender evaluation, and variation/invoice management, ensuring efficient procurement and contractual adherence.

• Plan and deliver complete, coordinated multi-disciplined design packages with necessary certifications, drawings, and documentation for tendering, ensuring all reviews and approvals are secured prior to issuance.

• Ensure strict compliance with risk management, safety, operational, and environmental legislation, regulations, and best practices relevant to railway infrastructure.

• Adhere to Queensland Rail's project delivery governance, principles, business rules, and operational practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical leadership, project management, and commercial acumen. The emphasis on "commercial outcomes" and "business-focused technical/professional design management solutions" indicates that this role requires not just technical design oversight but also a strategic approach to how design contributes to the overall business objectives of Queensland Rail.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While not explicitly stated, a Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical), Architecture, or a related field is typically expected for a Design Manager role of this scope. Postgraduate qualifications or relevant certifications would be advantageous.

Experience: A minimum of 10+ years of progressive experience in design management, project delivery, or a related engineering discipline, with a significant focus on large-scale infrastructure projects, preferably within the rail sector.

Required Skills:

• High-level skill in managing and coordinating multidisciplinary design teams for complex rail infrastructure projects or similar environments.

• High-level skill in administering multidisciplinary consultant agreements, ensuring contractual compliance and performance.

• Demonstrated expertise in leading the delivery of business-focused technical and professional design management solutions that achieve commercial outcomes, with specialization in design, asset management, infrastructure maintenance, construction, or supervision.

• Exceptional relationship management and communication skills, enabling effective collaboration with internal teams, consultants, stakeholders, and regulatory bodies.

• Extensive knowledge of railway transport operations, construction, maintenance, and safety standards.

• Deep understanding of design and engineering requirements specific to rail infrastructure works or comparable large-scale projects.

• High-level proficiency in meeting statutory, regulatory, and policy obligations, particularly concerning safety, environment, and contract processes within a commercially focused organization. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with project management methodologies (e.g., PRINCE2, Agile) as applied to design and construction.

• Familiarity with relevant Australian Standards, building codes, and rail industry specific regulations.

• Proficiency in using project management and design collaboration software.

• Experience in contract negotiation and dispute resolution.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "10+" experience level suggests a senior position demanding significant leadership and strategic thinking. The emphasis on "business-focused technical/professional design management solutions" implies a need for candidates who can translate technical design requirements into tangible business value and commercial success, a crucial aspect for operations leadership.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a track record of successfully managing complex, multidisciplinary design projects from inception to completion, with a focus on delivering within defined KPIs.

• Provide case studies showcasing experience in coordinating engineering and architectural design teams, external consultants, and ensuring design integration across diverse project elements.

• Include examples of managing tender and contract activities, highlighting successful vendor selection, tender evaluations, and contract administration.

• Present evidence of managing design reviews, approvals, scope changes, budget monitoring, and scheduling for large-scale infrastructure projects, with a clear focus on process efficiency and outcome delivery. Process Documentation:

• Showcase experience in developing and implementing design management processes that ensure coordination, quality, and compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.

• Provide examples of workflow design and optimization for design review cycles, approval processes, and change management within project environments.

• Include documentation or case studies demonstrating how you have monitored and reported on project progress, budget adherence, and risk mitigation strategies related to design.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role like this, a portfolio should not just showcase completed projects but also the processes and methodologies used to achieve those outcomes. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their approach to managing design risks, ensuring regulatory compliance, and integrating design considerations with operational and maintenance requirements.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for a Design Manager with 10+ years of experience in a major infrastructure organization in Brisbane, Australia, the estimated salary range would be AUD $150,000 - $200,000 per annum. This range accounts for the seniority of the role, the complexity of rail infrastructure projects, and the cost of living in Brisbane.

Benefits:

• Permanent full-time employment with Queensland Rail, offering job security and stability.

• Comprehensive superannuation contributions as per Australian legislative requirements.

• Access to employee assistance programs and health and wellbeing initiatives.

• Opportunities for professional development, training, and career advancement within a large, integrated infrastructure business.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses or incentives, reflecting the role's impact on project outcomes.

• Leave entitlements including annual leave, personal/carer's leave, and long service leave.

Working Hours: The role is full-time, typically involving 40 hours per week, with standard business hours expected. Flexibility may be required to meet project deadlines or critical milestones, particularly during intense project phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on data from Australian job boards and industry salary surveys for similar senior engineering and project management roles in the infrastructure sector in Queensland. The benefits package is typical for large public sector organizations in Australia, emphasizing stability and employee well-being.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Infrastructure, Transportation, Public Sector. Queensland Rail operates as a fully integrated infrastructure business responsible for the state's railway network, playing a pivotal role in Queensland's economy and daily life.

Company Size: Queensland Rail is a large organization, employing thousands of individuals across various functions, from operations and maintenance to project delivery and corporate services. This scale implies a structured environment with established processes and a diverse workforce.

Founded: Queensland Rail has a long history, with its origins tracing back to the 19th century, evolving significantly over time to meet the state's growing transportation needs. This longevity suggests a stable, established organization with a deep understanding of its operational domain.

Team Structure: The Design Manager will be part of the SEQ Project Delivery team. This team likely consists of project managers, engineers, designers, planners, and other specialists focused on delivering infrastructure upgrades and new projects within the South East Queensland region. The reporting structure will likely involve reporting to a senior project director or head of project delivery, while managing a matrixed team of internal and external design professionals.

Methodology: Queensland Rail emphasizes a culture based around safety and performance. Project delivery likely follows structured methodologies, with a strong focus on governance, risk management, and compliance. Data analysis is crucial for performance monitoring, project planning, and decision-making, ensuring efficient and safe operation of the rail network.

Company Website: https://www.queenslandrail.com.au/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's mission and scale suggest a culture that values safety, reliability, and long-term impact. The "SEQ Project Delivery team" context indicates a dynamic environment focused on developing critical infrastructure for a growing region.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior-level position within the engineering and project delivery functions. It is a management role requiring significant experience and leadership capabilities to oversee complex design processes and teams. It sits at a critical junction between strategic planning and operational execution of infrastructure projects.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will report to a senior leader within the SEQ Project Delivery team, likely a Program Director or Head of Project Delivery. They will, in turn, manage a team of internal design professionals and external consultants, fostering a collaborative and directive leadership style.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's role directly impacts Queensland Rail's ability to deliver essential railway infrastructure improvements and expansions. Effective design management ensures that projects are delivered safely, efficiently, on budget, and to the required quality standards, directly contributing to the operational reliability and future capacity of the rail network, and thus to the broader economic and social well-being of Queensland.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Progression: Potential to advance into broader program management roles, overseeing multiple projects or entire programs of work within Project Delivery.

• Specialization: Opportunity to become a subject matter expert in specific areas of rail infrastructure design or project execution, potentially leading specialized technical teams.

• Strategic Influence: Contribute to the strategic direction of infrastructure development and design standards for Queensland Rail.

• Professional Development: Access to continuous learning opportunities, industry conferences, and potential for further certifications or advanced training in project management or engineering leadership.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career advancement within a large, established organization. The emphasis on "commercial outcomes" and "business-focused solutions" suggests that candidates who demonstrate strategic thinking and business acumen will be well-positioned for future leadership opportunities.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Brisbane, QLD, and is described as "On-site," indicating a traditional office-based work environment within Queensland Rail's corporate offices or project sites. This setting fosters direct collaboration and team cohesion.

Office Location(s): The primary location is Brisbane, QLD, 4000. This central location offers accessibility and proximity to key stakeholders and project areas within the South East Queensland region.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is expected to be collaborative, facilitating interaction with project managers, engineers, planners, and other design professionals.

• Access to standard office technology, project management software, and potentially specialized design and modeling tools will be provided.

• Opportunities for regular team meetings, design review sessions, and stakeholder consultations will be integral to the daily work.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week, typically within business hours. However, the dynamic nature of major project delivery may necessitate occasional flexibility to attend critical meetings, site visits, or meet urgent project deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature of the role is critical for effective team management and direct oversight of design processes. Candidates should be prepared for a structured work environment that prioritizes collaboration and direct communication.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and application to assess alignment with essential qualifications and experience.

• Competency-Based Interview: A panel interview focusing on behavioural questions, assessing skills in leadership, problem-solving, communication, and technical management. Candidates will be expected to provide specific examples from their experience.

• Case Study/Presentation: Candidates may be asked to prepare and present a case study demonstrating their experience in managing a complex design project, outlining their approach to challenges, risk management, and achieving project outcomes. This is where portfolio elements would be crucial.

• Final Interview: Discussion with senior leadership to assess strategic fit, cultural alignment, and overall suitability for the role and Queensland Rail.

• Pre-employment Checks: This may include drug and alcohol testing, psychometric assessments, health checks, and background screenings.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio to clearly showcase projects relevant to rail infrastructure or similar large-scale engineering endeavors.

• Content Focus: Highlight your role in managing multidisciplinary design teams, consultant agreements, and the end-to-end design delivery process.

• Metrics & Outcomes: Quantify achievements wherever possible. Include examples of how your design management contributed to meeting KPIs for scope, budget, schedule, quality, risk mitigation, and safety.

• Process Emphasis: Detail the methodologies and processes you employed for design reviews, approvals, stakeholder engagement, and compliance.

• Commercial Acumen: Provide examples of how your design management contributed to achieving commercial outcomes or business objectives.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss how you would handle common challenges in rail infrastructure design, such as scope creep, unforeseen site conditions, regulatory changes, or coordination issues between different engineering disciplines.

• Practice articulating your leadership style and how you motivate and manage diverse teams, including external consultants.

• Review Queensland Rail's safety culture and operational principles, and be ready to discuss how design integrates with these crucial aspects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a "business-focused" approach suggests that interviewers will probe for how candidates translate technical design into commercial and operational benefits. A strong portfolio demonstrating this linkage will be highly advantageous.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency in using enterprise-level project management platforms for scheduling, resource allocation, budget tracking, and reporting (e.g., Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or similar).

• Design Collaboration Platforms: Experience with tools that facilitate collaboration and document management for design teams and external consultants (e.g., BIM 360, Aconex, SharePoint).

• Document Management Systems: Familiarity with robust systems for managing project documentation, drawings, certifications, and approvals.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret project data from various sources to monitor performance, identify trends, and inform decision-making.

• Reporting Software: Skills in generating comprehensive project status reports, budget summaries, and risk assessments using standard office suites (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel and PowerPoint).

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design integrates with broader asset management and operational systems is key. Familiarity with Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) systems or Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS) could be beneficial.

• Experience with workflow automation tools for document approvals or change request processes could be an advantage.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific software isn't listed, the role demands proficiency in standard project management and collaboration tools common in large-scale infrastructure delivery. The ability to leverage data for reporting and decision-making is paramount.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: A paramount value at Queensland Rail, requiring a commitment to ensuring all design decisions prioritize the safety of passengers, staff, and the public.

• Performance Driven: A focus on achieving project objectives efficiently and effectively, meeting KPIs and delivering tangible results for the organization and the state.

• Collaboration: Encouraging teamwork and open communication across internal departments, external consultants, and stakeholders to achieve integrated project success.

• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding high ethical standards in all dealings and taking ownership of responsibilities and outcomes.

• Customer Focus: Ensuring that design solutions meet the needs of Queensland Rail's customers and contribute to a positive user experience.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: A proactive approach to collaborating with operational teams, maintenance departments, asset managers, and construction crews to ensure designs are practical, constructible, and maintainable.

• Consultant Partnership: Building strong, professional relationships with external consultants, fostering a collaborative environment focused on shared project goals.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Effectively communicating with a diverse range of stakeholders, including government bodies, community groups, and internal management, to ensure alignment and buy-in.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of "safety and performance" as foundational values indicates that candidates must demonstrate alignment with these principles in their approach to design management and team leadership.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complexity of Rail Infrastructure: Managing the intricate technical, safety, and operational requirements of large-scale rail projects.

• Stakeholder Management: Balancing the diverse needs and expectations of multiple internal and external stakeholders.

• Regulatory Compliance: Navigating and ensuring adherence to a complex web of safety, environmental, and statutory regulations.

• Budget and Schedule Pressures: Delivering high-quality designs within stringent financial and time constraints, common in major infrastructure projects.

• Managing External Resources: Effectively overseeing and coordinating the performance of external consultants and contractors.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Industry Best Practices: Staying abreast of evolving design technologies, methodologies, and safety standards in the rail sector.

• Leadership Training: Opportunities to enhance leadership, negotiation, and strategic planning skills.

• Project Management Certifications: Potential to pursue or further develop certifications in project management (e.g., PMP).

• Networking: Building a professional network within the broader infrastructure and transport industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges that are characteristic of major infrastructure projects, offering substantial opportunities for professional growth and development for ambitious candidates.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you managed a multidisciplinary design team on a complex infrastructure project. What were the key challenges, and how did you ensure successful coordination and delivery?" (Focus on process, leadership, and outcomes.)

• "How do you ensure that design solutions meet not only technical specifications but also commercial objectives and operational requirements?" (Highlight your business acumen and understanding of the broader impact of design.)

• "Discuss your experience in managing consultant agreements. How do you ensure consultants meet their contractual obligations and deliver high-quality work?" (Emphasize your contract administration and performance management skills.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Queensland Rail and its role in the state's infrastructure development? How does your experience align with our values of safety and performance?" (Research the company's recent projects, strategic goals, and safety record.)

• "How would you foster a collaborative design environment that integrates effectively with operational and maintenance teams?" (Demonstrate your understanding of cross-functional collaboration.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Concise Storytelling: Prepare to walk through 1-2 key projects from your portfolio, focusing on the challenges, your strategic approach, the processes you implemented, and the quantifiable results achieved.

• Visual Aids: If possible, use visuals (diagrams, charts, photos) to illustrate project scope, design complexity, and outcomes.

• Focus on Process: Emphasize your methodologies for design review, risk management, and stakeholder engagement.

• Commercial Impact: Clearly articulate how your design management contributed to budget adherence, schedule efficiency, and overall project success.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely assess not only technical design management skills but also leadership capabilities, commercial awareness, and alignment with Queensland Rail's safety-centric culture.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the Queensland Rail careers website by November 18, 2026.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight experience in rail infrastructure, multidisciplinary design team management, consultant administration, and project delivery KPIs. Use keywords from the job description such as "design management," "rail infrastructure," "project delivery," "risk management," and "safety compliance."

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate examples that demonstrate your ability to manage complex projects, coordinate diverse teams, and achieve commercial and operational outcomes. Be ready to discuss your processes and results in detail.

• Research Queensland Rail: Understand their strategic objectives, current projects, and commitment to safety and performance. This will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate genuine interest.

• Practice Interview Questions: Rehearse answers to common competency-based and situational questions, focusing on providing specific examples and quantifiable achievements.

⚠️ 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.