Design Manager - Defence and Secuirty

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager - Defence and Security

Company: Mott MacDonald

Location: Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

Job Type: Full-time, Part-time

Category: Engineering Design Management & Project Delivery

Date Posted: 2026-09-08

Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (5-10 years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead multi-disciplinary design delivery for a portfolio of Estate Works Program (EWP) projects under the Project Delivery Services (PDS) Contract, ensuring technical excellence and adherence to client requirements.

• Drive program and budget performance by effectively coordinating design teams, managing scope, and mitigating risks throughout the project lifecycle.

• Champion safe design practices and ensure all design solutions comply with relevant Australian standards, legislation, and client-specific governance frameworks.

• Foster collaborative relationships with project managers, technical experts, and external stakeholders to achieve successful project outcomes and maintain high standards of client satisfaction.

• Contribute to the continuous improvement of the design function through technical leadership, knowledge sharing, and the development of team capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is specifically focused on design management within the Defence and Security sector in Australia, requiring an understanding of regulated environments and the ability to obtain a security clearance. The hybrid work arrangement suggests a need for strong self-management and communication skills.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the resourcing, coordination, and timely delivery of design packages across a diverse portfolio of Defence and Security projects.

• Proactively manage project scope, program timelines, and budget allocations to ensure profitable and efficient design delivery.

• Drive the technical quality of design outputs, ensuring they meet all regulatory, safety, and client-specific standards.

• Coordinate and manage multidisciplinary design teams, including internal resources and sub-consultants, to achieve project milestones.

• Implement and oversee effective risk, change, and document management processes throughout the entire project lifecycle.

• Maintain clear, concise, and transparent communication channels with project managers, stakeholders, and client representatives, providing regular updates on progress, issues, and proposed solutions.

• Ensure all design activities adhere strictly to safe design principles and relevant Australian legislation, Defence standards, and client requirements.

• Contribute to the professional development of the design team, providing technical guidance and fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a need for strong project controls, risk management, and stakeholder communication skills, emphasizing a proactive approach to design delivery within a complex contractual framework (PDS Contract).

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: A relevant tertiary qualification in Engineering, Architecture, or a related design discipline is highly preferred.

Experience: A minimum of 5-10 years of demonstrated experience in design management, engineering delivery, or multidisciplinary project coordination, preferably within the infrastructure, Defence, or security sectors.

Required Skills:

• Proven experience in design management, encompassing the full project lifecycle from concept to completion.

• Strong understanding and practical application of project delivery principles, including scope definition, program scheduling, budget control, quality assurance, and risk management.

• Demonstrated ability to lead, mentor, and influence diverse technical teams and external project partners.

• Experience operating within regulated environments and a thorough understanding of applying relevant standards, legislation, and governance requirements.

• Excellent stakeholder engagement and communication skills, with the ability to build rapport and manage expectations effectively.

• Proficiency in managing multidisciplinary design coordination and ensuring seamless integration of various engineering disciplines.

• Capacity to drive safe design practices and ensure compliance with stringent industry standards. Preferred Skills:

• Experience specifically within the Australian Defence sector or similar government-regulated environments.

• Familiarity with the Estate Works Program (EWP) and Project Delivery Services (PDS) Contract.

• Knowledge of relevant Australian Defence Force (ADF) standards and security protocols.

• Experience with project management software and design collaboration platforms.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for Australian citizenship and the ability to obtain a baseline security clearance is a critical qualification that will significantly narrow the candidate pool and should be a primary focus for applicants.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 2-3 significant projects demonstrating successful design management in complex environments.

• For each project, clearly articulate your specific role, responsibilities, and the design challenges overcome.

• Highlight your ability to manage scope, program, budget, and technical quality, supported by quantifiable achievements where possible.

• Include examples of how you have ensured compliance with safety standards, legislation, and client-specific governance.

• Demonstrate experience in coordinating multidisciplinary teams and managing sub-consultants effectively. Process Documentation:

• Provide examples of process documentation or methodologies used for design coordination, risk management, and change control.

• Illustrate your approach to ensuring safe design practices and compliance with relevant industry standards.

• Detail your methods for stakeholder communication and reporting on project progress, issues, and recommended actions.

• Showcase your experience in fostering continuous improvement within design functions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Applicants should prepare a portfolio that strongly emphasizes their experience in regulated environments, particularly within Defence or infrastructure projects, and clearly demonstrates their project controls and team leadership capabilities.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for Design Managers with 5-10 years of experience in Melbourne, Australia, specializing in Defence and Security, a competitive salary range is estimated between AUD $130,000 - $170,000 per annum. This estimate considers the specialized nature of the role, the required security clearance, and the cost of living in Melbourne.

Benefits:

• A flexible and agile work atmosphere designed to support professional growth and personal life.

• Competitive base salary commensurate with experience.

• Discretionary Group and Personal Performance Bonuses, rewarding individual and company success.

• Comprehensive insurance coverage, including life and salary continuance insurance, offering financial security.

• Opportunity to purchase additional annual leave, enhancing work-life balance.

• Access to employee resource groups (e.g., Inclusive Network for Women, Corporate Social Responsibility) for networking and professional development.

• Participation in an employee ownership model, fostering a culture of shared success and direct connection to company performance through bonuses and potential equity growth.

Working Hours: Standard full-time hours are presumed to be 40 hours per week, with a hybrid work arrangement suggesting flexibility. Part-time arrangements may also be considered.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on data from Australian job boards and salary comparison sites for similar roles in Melbourne, factoring in the Defence industry premium and the requirement for a security clearance. The employee ownership model is a significant differentiator and should be highlighted.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering, Management, and Development Consultancy, with a significant specialization in Defence and Security projects. Mott MacDonald operates globally, providing critical infrastructure and services.

Company Size: Mott MacDonald is a large, global organization, employing thousands of professionals worldwide. This size offers resources, diverse projects, and international collaboration opportunities.

Founded: Founded in 1902, Mott MacDonald has a long-standing history of delivering complex engineering and management solutions, building a reputation for excellence and innovation.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager will likely lead or be part of a dedicated Defence and Security design team, comprising various engineering disciplines.

• Reporting structure will likely involve a senior project manager or a divisional head within the Defence and Security sector.

• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, involving project managers, client representatives, technical specialists, sub-consultants, and potentially site teams. Methodology:

• Mott MacDonald emphasizes a collaborative, global team approach, leveraging diverse skills and experiences to achieve "brilliant things."

• Data-driven decision-making and a commitment to continuous improvement are core to their operational philosophy.

• Project delivery is managed through structured methodologies, focusing on technical quality, safety, and client satisfaction.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's ethos of "Brilliant people trusted to do brilliant things" suggests a high-performance culture that values expertise, collaboration, and continuous learning. The employee ownership model fosters a unique sense of shared purpose and accountability.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a mid-to-senior level, requiring demonstrated leadership and management experience. It's a critical role for the successful delivery of Defence and Security projects, bridging technical design and project execution.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will report to a senior figure within the Defence and Security division, likely a Program Director or Senior Project Manager. They will, in turn, manage and coordinate internal design teams and external sub-consultants.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's impact is direct and substantial, influencing project success through the quality, compliance, and timeliness of design delivery. Their leadership ensures projects meet stringent Defence and Security requirements, contributing to national infrastructure and security objectives.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in Defence and Security design standards, technologies, and project complexities.

• Leadership Advancement: Progress to Senior Design Manager, Program Director, or other senior management roles within the Defence and Security sector or other Mott MacDonald divisions.

• Project Portfolio Expansion: Take on larger, more complex, or higher-profile Defence and Security projects.

• Cross-divisional Mobility: Leverage experience to move into related roles within Mott MacDonald's broader infrastructure, transport, or energy sectors.

• Professional Development: Access internal training, external courses, and industry certifications supported by the company.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path emphasizes progression within specialized Defence and Security projects, with potential for broader leadership roles within a global consultancy. The employee ownership model also presents a unique long-term growth opportunity.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Melbourne, Victoria, with a hybrid work arrangement. This suggests a modern office environment that supports collaboration, with designated spaces for team meetings, project reviews, and focused work.

Office Location(s): Mott MacDonald has offices in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. Specific details on the office location and accessibility would be provided during the interview process.

Workspace Context:

• The hybrid model allows for a balance between in-office collaboration and remote work, promoting flexibility.

• The office environment is expected to be professional and conducive to technical discussions, design reviews, and team coordination.

• Access to necessary design software, collaboration tools, and IT infrastructure will be provided to support efficient work.

• Opportunities for direct interaction with project teams, senior management, and other design professionals will be available during in-office days.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week is typical, with flexibility offered through the hybrid arrangement. The nature of Defence projects may occasionally require extended hours or specific availability to meet critical project deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role requires candidates to be self-motivated and capable of managing their workload effectively, both independently and as part of a team, whether in the office or remotely.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or a recruiter will likely conduct an initial phone screen to assess basic qualifications, experience alignment, and cultural fit.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A detailed discussion with the Hiring Manager focusing on your design management experience, leadership style, understanding of Defence/Security projects, and technical competencies. Be prepared to discuss your approach to managing scope, program, budget, and risk.

• Technical/Team Interview: This may involve meeting with senior technical staff or potential team members. You might be asked to present a case study from your portfolio or discuss specific technical challenges and solutions.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where you present and discuss selected projects from your portfolio, highlighting your contributions and achievements.

• Final Interview/Offer: A final discussion, potentially with senior leadership, to confirm suitability and extend a formal offer.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 2-3 projects that best showcase your experience in Defence, Security, or complex infrastructure design management.

• Quantify Impact: Use data and metrics to demonstrate your success in managing budget, schedule, quality, and risk. For example, "Reduced design overrun by 15% through proactive risk mitigation."

• Highlight Leadership: Clearly articulate your role in leading multidisciplinary teams and influencing stakeholders.

• Process Focus: Explain the methodologies and processes you employed for design coordination, safety compliance, and stakeholder communication.

• Storytelling: Structure your project presentations as compelling narratives, explaining the challenge, your approach, and the successful outcome.

Challenge Preparation:

• Case Study: Be ready to present a detailed case study of a challenging project you managed. Focus on problem-solving, decision-making, and lessons learned.

• Scenario-Based Questions: Prepare for questions like "How would you manage a conflict between two engineering disciplines on a project?" or "Describe your approach to ensuring compliance with new Defence security standards."

• Company Research: Understand Mott MacDonald's values, recent projects, and their approach to Defence and Security.

📝 Enhancement Note: Emphasize your ability to navigate complex regulatory environments and your experience with Defence-specific requirements. The security clearance requirement will likely be a key discussion point early in the process.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency with industry-standard project management tools (e.g., Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Asana, Monday.com) for planning, scheduling, and tracking project progress.

• Design Collaboration Platforms: Experience with platforms like Autodesk BIM 360, Bentley ProjectWise, or similar for managing design documents, workflows, and team collaboration.

• Document Management Systems: Familiarity with enterprise-level document control systems for managing project documentation, revisions, and approvals.

• Risk Management Tools: Experience with software or frameworks for identifying, assessing, and mitigating project risks.

Analytics & Reporting:

• MS Office Suite: Advanced proficiency in Excel for data analysis, financial tracking, and reporting.

• Business Intelligence Tools (Desirable): Familiarity with tools like Power BI or Tableau for creating dashboards and visualising project performance data.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design data integrates with broader project management or client management systems can be beneficial.

• Automation tools for workflow management or reporting may be used, but specific requirements are not detailed.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific tools aren't listed, a strong understanding of project management software, document control systems, and collaboration platforms is essential for a Design Manager role, especially in a regulated sector like Defence.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence: A commitment to delivering high-quality, technically sound, and compliant design solutions.

• Collaboration: Working effectively as part of a global team, sharing expertise, and fostering a supportive environment.

• Integrity: Upholding ethical standards, transparency, and trust in all dealings.

• Innovation: Continuously seeking better ways to design, deliver, and manage projects, embracing new technologies and methodologies.

• Safety: A paramount focus on safe design and operational practices, ensuring the well-being of all involved.

Collaboration Style:

• Mott MacDonald promotes a connected global team approach, encouraging cross-disciplinary and cross-border collaboration.

• The Design Manager will facilitate collaboration among diverse technical teams, sub-consultants, and client stakeholders, ensuring open communication and shared understanding.

• A culture of continuous improvement suggests an openness to feedback, process reviews, and knowledge sharing to enhance design delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "brilliant people doing brilliant things" and the employee ownership model points to a culture that values individual contribution within a collective success framework, with a strong emphasis on professional development and shared responsibility.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Security Clearance: Obtaining and maintaining a baseline security clearance is a prerequisite and a potential challenge for non-citizens or those with past issues.

• Complex Regulatory Environment: Navigating the stringent and evolving standards, governance, and compliance requirements specific to Defence and Security projects.

• Multidisciplinary Coordination: Effectively managing diverse engineering disciplines, often with competing priorities, to achieve cohesive design outcomes.

• Stakeholder Management: Balancing the needs and expectations of various stakeholders, including client representatives, project managers, and internal technical experts.

• Hybrid Work Management: Maintaining team cohesion, productivity, and clear communication in a hybrid work environment.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Defence Sector Expertise: Deepen knowledge of specific Defence standards, operational requirements, and project typologies.

• Advanced Project Controls: Enhance skills in program management, risk analysis, and budget forecasting for large-scale projects.

• Leadership Development: Access training and mentorship programs to refine leadership and team management capabilities.

• Industry Certifications: Opportunities to pursue relevant professional certifications in project management, design, or specific engineering disciplines.

• Global Exposure: Engage with international projects and experts within Mott MacDonald's global network.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenge is tied to the security clearance and the specific demands of the Defence sector. Growth opportunities are strong for those who excel in these areas and are keen to advance within a large, international consultancy.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your experience leading the design delivery of complex infrastructure projects, specifically within the Defence or Security sectors." (Prepare a detailed case study.)

• "How do you ensure compliance with stringent safety standards and governance requirements in a regulated environment?" (Focus on processes and examples.)

• "Outline your approach to managing multidisciplinary design teams, including sub-consultants, to meet program and budget targets." (Highlight coordination, communication, and risk mitigation strategies.)

• "How do you foster collaboration and maintain effective communication with diverse stakeholders, including clients, project managers, and technical teams?" (Provide examples of successful stakeholder engagement.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Mott MacDonald and this specific Design Manager role within our Defence and Security portfolio?" (Research company values and recent projects.)

• "How do you align with Mott MacDonald's ethos of 'Brilliant people trusted to do brilliant things'?" (Connect your experience and work style to their culture.)

• "Describe your experience working in a collaborative team environment and how you contribute to team success." (Emphasize teamwork and knowledge sharing.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio by project, clearly outlining the project scope, your role, key challenges, your solutions, and the quantifiable outcomes.

• Visuals: Use diagrams, charts, and relevant project imagery to illustrate your points effectively.

• Focus on Impact: Quantify your achievements wherever possible (e.g., budget savings, schedule improvements, risk reduction).

• Process Demonstration: Clearly explain the design management processes, safety protocols, and collaboration strategies you employed.

• Conciseness: Be prepared to present within a set timeframe, focusing on the most impactful aspects of your experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: Be ready to discuss your understanding of Australian Defence standards and your process for obtaining and maintaining a security clearance. This is a critical differentiator for this role.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the Mott MacDonald careers portal via the provided URL.

• Tailor your CV: Emphasize your experience in design management, engineering delivery, and multidisciplinary project coordination, specifically highlighting any Defence, Security, or regulated environment experience. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare your Portfolio: Select 2-3 key projects that best demonstrate your capabilities in managing scope, program, budget, quality, and risk within complex projects. Be ready to discuss your specific role, challenges, and outcomes.

• Research Mott MacDonald: Familiarize yourself with the company's values, history, and its work within the Defence and Security sector. Understand their commitment to employee ownership and sustainability.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare answers to common interview questions, focusing on STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions and preparing detailed case studies for your portfolio presentation.

⚠️ 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.