Design Manager, Defence

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager, Defence

Company: Aurecon

Location: Perth, Western Australia, Australia

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Operations - GTM / Project Management / Engineering Operations

Date Posted: May 07, 2026

Experience Level: Senior (10+ years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage multi-disciplinary design processes for complex Defence projects, ensuring integrated and constructible solutions from concept to completion.

• Drive the implementation of digital engineering strategies, including BIM and Common Data Environments, to enhance design lifecycle efficiency and collaboration.

• Oversee critical project elements such as the design management plan, scope definition, program scheduling, budget control, risk mitigation, and change management processes.

• Serve as a key technical leader, providing guidance and mentorship to a team of design managers, engineers, and drafters within the Buildings and Defence sectors.

• Foster strong client relationships and facilitate effective communication and approvals with Defence stakeholders, user groups, and sub-consultants.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role sits at the intersection of engineering project management and operations, focusing on the strategic coordination and execution of design for high-stakes Defence infrastructure. The emphasis on digital engineering and stakeholder engagement suggests a need for strong operational process management and communication skills.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead multi-disciplinary design management (structure, building services, civil, architecture, and specialist disciplines) from conceptualization through to final construction documentation.

• Develop and own the design management plan, ensuring alignment with project objectives, scope, program, budget, risk, and change control procedures for complex Defence projects.

• Coordinate and integrate inputs from diverse Aurecon teams across Australia and offshore to ensure cohesive, clash-free, and buildable design outcomes.

• Champion and implement digital engineering best practices, including BIM and common data environments (CDEs), throughout the design lifecycle to improve efficiency and collaboration.

• Engage directly with Defence clients, user groups, contractors, and sub-consultants to facilitate design reviews, technical workshops, and secure necessary approvals.

• Provide robust technical leadership, coaching, and mentorship to junior design managers, engineers, and drafters, fostering their professional development.

• Embed safety, security, quality, and sustainability principles into all design decisions, ensuring compliance with Defence standards and Australian building codes.

• Manage project risks proactively, identifying potential issues and implementing effective mitigation strategies throughout the design phase.

• Contribute to the continuous improvement of design processes and methodologies within the Buildings and Defence teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong need for process ownership and optimization, particularly in managing the complex interplay between various design disciplines and stakeholders within a regulated environment like Defence.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Degree qualification in structural, civil, mechanical, electrical, or building services engineering, or architecture.

Experience: Significant experience (typically 10+ years) in the design and delivery of complex building projects, with a proven track record in Defence or other secure government facilities.

Required Skills:

• Proven experience as a Design Manager or Design Lead on multi-disciplinary projects, adept at coordinating interfaces and resolving design issues.

• Strong working knowledge of Australian building codes and standards.

• In-depth understanding of Defence and secure-facility design requirements.

• Confidence in direct client engagement, including with user groups, contractors, and sub-consultants, particularly in live Defence environments.

• Familiarity with BIM tools and digital collaboration platforms.

• Passion for adopting and promoting more efficient methods for project delivery.

• Australian citizenship is essential.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience leading and managing design processes within a consulting engineering or design firm.

• Demonstrated ability to manage project budgets, programs, and risks effectively.

• Proficiency in specific Defence project lifecycle management frameworks.

• Experience with contract administration and procurement processes related to design services.

• Strong negotiation and conflict resolution skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for Australian citizenship and Defence security clearance is critical and non-negotiable, significantly narrowing the candidate pool. The extensive experience requirement points to a role demanding strategic oversight and operational maturity.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrable case studies showcasing successful management of multi-disciplinary design processes for complex building projects, ideally within the Defence sector.

• Evidence of implementing and managing design management plans, including scope, budget, program, risk, and change control.

• Examples of coordinating inputs from diverse internal and external teams to achieve integrated design solutions.

• Documentation or examples illustrating the application of digital engineering, BIM, and Common Data Environments in project delivery.

Process Documentation:

• Examples of design process optimization, highlighting improvements in efficiency, collaboration, or risk reduction.

• Documentation of how safety, security, quality, and sustainability were embedded into design decision-making processes.

• Case studies demonstrating the resolution of complex design issues and the management of design interfaces.

• Evidence of managing and mitigating design risks throughout project lifecycles.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to showcase their ability to manage the entire design lifecycle operationally, with a strong emphasis on process, documentation, and demonstrable outcomes, particularly related to digital engineering and Defence-specific requirements.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Given the senior level (10+ years), the specialized Defence sector experience, and the Perth location (Australia), a competitive salary is expected. For a Design Manager with this profile in Perth, the estimated annual salary range would likely be between AUD $160,000 and AUD $220,000. This estimation is based on industry benchmarks for senior engineering and project management roles in Australia, considering the high demand for Defence-cleared professionals and the cost of living in Perth.

Benefits:

• Diversity and Inclusion initiatives fostering a welcoming and equitable workplace.

• Flexible Working Arrangements to support work-life balance.

• Structured Development programs for continuous professional growth.

• Mentoring opportunities with experienced industry leaders.

• Leadership Opportunities for career advancement within Aurecon's Buildings and Defence markets.

• Access to a global network of professionals for knowledge sharing and collaboration.

• Opportunities to work on nation-critical Defence projects with significant long-term impact.

Working Hours: While specific hours are not detailed, a standard full-time role typically involves 38-40 hours per week. The mention of flexible working arrangements suggests potential for some autonomy in managing work hours, provided project demands and client needs are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on publicly available data for comparable roles in Australia and the specific requirements of the Defence sector. Benefits are drawn directly from the provided text and contextualized for operations professionals.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering, Design, and Advisory Services, with a significant focus on the Defence sector. Aurecon operates globally, providing solutions across infrastructure, energy, water, and buildings. The Defence sector is highlighted as a key growth area, requiring specialized expertise and a commitment to national security.

Company Size: Aurecon is a large global firm, employing thousands of individuals. This scale offers opportunities for diverse project exposure, extensive professional networks, and structured career progression. For operations professionals, a large company often means established processes, significant resources, and opportunities to specialize.

Founded: Aurecon was formed in 2009 through the merger of Connell Wagner (Australia/New Zealand), Africon (Africa), and O'Sullivan (Asia), building on a legacy of engineering expertise dating back much further. This history provides a foundation of deep technical knowledge and a long-standing reputation in the engineering and construction industry.

Team Structure:

• The role is within the Buildings team, specifically focused on Defence projects. This suggests a specialized unit within a larger business, likely comprising various engineering disciplines, architecture, and project management professionals.

• The reporting structure would likely involve reporting to a senior leader within the Buildings or Defence market segment, with direct management responsibility for design managers, engineers, and drafters.

Methodology:

• Data analysis and insights are crucial for informed design decisions, risk assessment, and performance monitoring.

• Workflow planning and optimization are central to managing multi-disciplinary design processes efficiently, especially within the Defence context.

• Automation and efficiency practices are actively encouraged, particularly through the adoption of digital engineering and BIM.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Aurecon's global presence and focus on complex challenges, particularly in Defence, signal a culture that values technical excellence, innovation, and robust project execution. The emphasis on digital engineering aligns with modern operational efficiency trends.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior-level role, typically designated as a Principal or Senior Manager within an operations or project management framework. It requires a high degree of autonomy, strategic thinking, and the ability to lead significant project components. The scope includes technical leadership, client relationship management, and business development support within the Defence sector.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will likely report to a Director or Senior Principal within Aurecon's Buildings or Defence division. They will, in turn, manage a team of Design Managers, Engineers, and Drafters, overseeing their day-to-day activities and professional development. This structure emphasizes leadership and team enablement.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's operations directly influence the successful delivery of critical Defence infrastructure. Their ability to manage design complexity, ensure constructability, adhere to budgets and timelines, and integrate advanced digital tools has a direct impact on project profitability, client satisfaction, and Aurecon's reputation in the Defence market. Effective design management is foundational to mitigating project risks and ensuring the long-term functionality and security of Defence facilities.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Opportunities to deepen expertise in Defence project delivery, advanced digital engineering techniques (e.g., generative design, AI in design), and complex stakeholder management.

• Leadership Development: Potential to move into broader project director roles, market sector leadership, or business development within the Defence space.

• Specialization: Develop a niche expertise in areas like secure facility design, sustainable Defence infrastructure, or advanced BIM implementation, becoming a recognized authority.

• Cross-Market Exposure: Opportunities to engage with other Aurecon market sectors, leveraging Defence project learnings into broader building or infrastructure projects, or vice-versa.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear path for experienced professionals to leverage their technical and leadership skills in a high-impact, specialized sector, with significant potential for career advancement within a large, reputable organization.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is described as Hybrid. This indicates a blend of working from Aurecon's Perth office and performing duties remotely. The office environment is likely professional, collaborative, and equipped with the necessary tools for design and project management.

Office Location(s): The primary location is Perth, Western Australia. Aurecon has a strong presence in Perth, providing access to modern office facilities and a professional working environment. Specific office address details would typically be provided during the interview process.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The hybrid model necessitates effective collaboration tools and practices, both in-person and virtually, to ensure seamless communication and coordination among dispersed team members and stakeholders.

• Operations Tools and Technology: Access to industry-leading design software, BIM platforms, digital collaboration tools, and potentially secure network access required for Defence projects.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for in-person interaction with the Buildings and Defence teams for brainstorming, problem-solving, and team building, balanced with the flexibility of remote work for focused individual tasks.

Work Schedule: A standard full-time work schedule is implied, likely around 38-40 hours per week. The hybrid nature and emphasis on flexible working arrangements suggest that while core hours may be expected, there could be some flexibility in daily start/end times, contingent on project deadlines and team coordination. This flexibility is beneficial for operations professionals who may need to manage complex workflows and data analysis outside of traditional peak hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work model aligns with modern professional expectations and requires strong self-management and communication skills from operations professionals to maintain productivity and team cohesion.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and application to assess alignment with the core requirements, particularly experience in Defence projects and senior design management.

• First Interview: Typically with an HR representative and/or a hiring manager. This will focus on your background, motivation for the role, understanding of Defence projects, and general management capabilities. Be prepared to discuss your career trajectory and leadership style.

• Technical Interview/Case Study: Likely involves a more in-depth discussion of your technical expertise, design management methodologies, and problem-solving skills. You may be asked to present a case study from your portfolio demonstrating your approach to managing complex design challenges, integrating digital engineering, and handling stakeholder engagement.

• Team/Cultural Fit Interview: An opportunity to meet potential future colleagues or senior leadership. This interview assesses your cultural alignment with Aurecon's values, your collaboration style, and your ability to integrate into the existing team structure.

• Final Interview & Offer: A final discussion to confirm mutual fit, discuss terms, and extend an offer of employment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-4 strong projects that best represent your capabilities in Defence or complex building design management.

Focus on projects with clear challenges and quantifiable outcomes.

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each project, clearly outline:

  • The Challenge: What were the key design, stakeholder, or operational hurdles?
  • Your Role & Actions: What specific responsibilities did you hold, and what actions did you take?
  • The Solution/Process: Detail your management approach, methodologies used (e.g., design management plan, BIM implementation), and problem-solving strategies.
  • The Outcome: Quantify results where possible (e.g., budget savings, schedule adherence, risk reduction, successful approvals).

• Highlight Digital Engineering: Emphasize your experience with BIM, CDEs, and digital collaboration platforms, showcasing how these tools improved project delivery.

• Demonstrate Stakeholder Management: Provide examples of how you effectively engaged with Defence clients, user groups, and contractors, resolving conflicts and securing buy-in.

• Prepare for Questions: Anticipate questions about your risk management strategies, budget control, team leadership, and how you handle design conflicts.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Be ready for hypothetical scenarios related to managing design changes, resolving inter-disciplinary conflicts, or addressing client concerns under tight deadlines.

• Process Improvement Focus: Prepare to discuss how you would optimize Aurecon's existing design management processes for Defence projects, leveraging your experience and knowledge of best practices.

• Technical Acumen: Refresh your understanding of Australian building codes, Defence security requirements, and current BIM standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should focus on demonstrating operational excellence in design management, with a specific emphasis on the Defence context and the strategic implementation of digital tools for efficiency and collaboration.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design Management Software: Tools for tracking project progress, managing documentation, and coordinating workflows (e.g., Asana, Monday.com, Procore).

• BIM Software: Proficiency with BIM authoring tools (e.g., Revit, ArchiCAD) and BIM coordination platforms (e.g., Navisworks, Solibri) is essential.

• Common Data Environments (CDEs): Experience with CDE platforms for managing and sharing project information (e.g., Autodesk Construction Cloud, Bentley ProjectWise, Aconex).

• Project Management Software: Tools for scheduling, budgeting, and resource allocation (e.g., Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Oracle Aconex).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Visualization Tools: Ability to extract and present data from BIM models and project management systems for reporting (e.g., Power BI, Tableau).

• Reporting Dashboards: Experience creating and interpreting dashboards for design progress, risk status, and budget adherence.

• Performance Metrics: Understanding and application of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) relevant to design management and project delivery.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: While not directly client-facing sales, understanding how design project data interfaces with CRM for client relationship management is beneficial.

• Workflow Automation: Familiarity with automating repetitive tasks in design coordination or documentation processes.

• Integration Platforms: Understanding how different software platforms (BIM, PM, CDE) can be integrated for seamless data flow.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role explicitly mentions BIM and digital collaboration platforms, indicating a strong reliance on modern digital engineering tools. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their proficiency and strategic application of these technologies.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence: A commitment to delivering high-quality, technically sound design solutions that meet the rigorous standards of Defence projects.

• Collaboration: Fostering a team-oriented environment where diverse disciplines work together effectively, sharing knowledge and supporting each other's contributions.

• Innovation: Embracing new technologies and methodologies, such as digital engineering and BIM, to drive efficiency and better project outcomes.

• Integrity: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all dealings, particularly crucial when working with sensitive Defence information and national security projects.

• Client Focus: Prioritizing client needs and building strong, trust-based relationships through clear communication and reliable delivery.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Encouraging seamless communication and coordination between architectural, structural, mechanical, electrical, civil, and specialist design teams.

• Process Review Culture: Actively seeking feedback on design processes and workflows to identify areas for improvement and implement best practices.

• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting an environment where lessons learned from one project can be shared and applied to future endeavors, enhancing overall team capability.

• Proactive Communication: Maintaining open lines of communication with all stakeholders, including clients, sub-consultants, and internal teams, to ensure alignment and timely issue resolution.

📝 Enhancement Note: Aurecon's values likely emphasize technical rigor, collaborative problem-solving, and a forward-thinking approach, all critical for success in the Defence sector.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complexity of Defence Requirements: Navigating the stringent security, operational, and technical specifications unique to Defence facilities.

• Managing Disparate Teams: Coordinating multiple design disciplines, potentially across different Aurecon offices and with external consultants, to achieve a cohesive design.

• Adoption of Digital Engineering: Driving the consistent use and integration of BIM and CDEs across all project stakeholders, overcoming potential resistance to change.

• Client Engagement in Secure Environments: Building trust and rapport with Defence clients who operate under strict protocols and security clearances.

• Balancing Innovation with Compliance: Integrating new technologies and efficient processes while strictly adhering to established Defence standards and Australian building codes.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Defence Training: Access to training specific to Defence project delivery, security protocols, and relevant standards.

• Digital Engineering Certifications: Opportunities to pursue advanced certifications in BIM, CDE management, and digital project delivery.

• Leadership Mentorship: Guidance from senior leaders within Aurecon's Defence market, focusing on strategic project leadership and client relationship management.

• Industry Conferences & Forums: Participation in Defence industry events and engineering/design conferences to stay abreast of trends and network with peers.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for high-stakes Defence projects and offer significant opportunities for professional growth and skill development for ambitious operations professionals.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you managed a complex multi-disciplinary design process for a significant infrastructure project. What was your approach to coordination, risk management, and stakeholder engagement?" (Focus on your Design Management Plan, problem-solving, and communication strategies.)

• "How have you championed and implemented BIM or digital engineering practices on past projects? What were the benefits and challenges, and how did you overcome them?" (Highlight your understanding of digital workflows, CDEs, and your ability to drive adoption.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Aurecon and specifically our Defence sector work?" (Research Aurecon's recent Defence projects, values, and strategic direction. Align your interests with their stated goals.)

• "How do you approach building and maintaining strong relationships with demanding clients, particularly in a government or Defence context?" (Discuss your client-centric approach, communication skills, and understanding of client needs.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Quantify Impact: For each project presented, clearly state the scale of the project (e.g., budget, size), your specific role and responsibilities, and the measurable outcomes achieved (e.g., schedule adherence, cost savings, risk reduction).

• Tell a Story: Frame your portfolio examples as narratives. Start with the challenge, explain your strategic approach and operational execution, and conclude with the positive results.

• Highlight Process & Tools: Explicitly mention the design management processes, BIM tools, and CDEs you utilized and how they contributed to project success.

• Tailor to Defence: If possible, use examples that are directly relevant to Defence or secure facility design, demonstrating your understanding of the sector's unique requirements.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about the technical aspects of your projects, your decision-making rationale, and how you managed team dynamics.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to articulate their operational expertise in design management, demonstrating a strategic understanding of Defence requirements and a proven ability to leverage digital tools for efficient project delivery.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on the Aurecon careers portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Curate your resume and portfolio to prominently feature your experience in Defence projects, multi-disciplinary design management, BIM implementation, and stakeholder engagement. Select 2-3 key projects that best illustrate your capabilities.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly highlights your 10+ years of experience, your degree qualifications, and your Australian citizenship status. Use keywords from the job description such as "Design Manager," "Defence," "BIM," "Digital Engineering," and "Stakeholder Engagement."

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions. Prepare specific examples for technical and situational questions related to design management, risk, and client interaction.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Aurecon's work in the Defence sector, their company values, and their approach to digital engineering. Understand their market position and recent achievements to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural fit.

⚠️ 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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