Design Manager (Façades)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager (Façades)

Company: SACYR

Location: Shenton Park, Western Australia, Australia

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Construction & Engineering Operations / Design Management

Date Posted: 2026-06-10T07:46:25

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage the comprehensive façade design lifecycle, from initial concept through to construction execution, ensuring strict adherence to project scope, budget, and contractual obligations.

• Drive the coordination and management of façade consultants, specialist designers, and subcontractors to ensure the timely and accurate delivery of detailed design documentation, focusing on buildability and integration.

• Oversee the resolution of complex design discrepancies, clashes, and technical issues related to façade systems, ensuring seamless coordination with structural, architectural, and building services disciplines.

• Ensure rigorous compliance with all relevant Australian standards and regulations, including the National Construction Code (NCC) and specific Australian Standards (AS) for façade performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is identified as being within Construction & Engineering Operations, with a specific focus on Design Management within the Façades domain. The "On-site" work arrangement implies a hands-on approach to project execution and team collaboration within the specified Australian location. The AI-derived experience level of 5-10 years suggests a mid-to-senior level position requiring significant autonomy and leadership.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Façade Design Leadership: Spearhead the façade design development process, ensuring alignment with project objectives, compliance requirements, and commercial outcomes in close consultation with the Project Director and Design Team.

• Consultant & Subcontractor Management: Manage and coordinate façade consultants, specialist designers, and subcontractors in the preparation and delivery of detailed design documentation, ensuring buildability, integration, and timely release for procurement and construction.

• Technical Issue Resolution: Drive the resolution of design discrepancies, clashes, and technical issues related to façade systems, ensuring effective coordination with structural, architectural, and building services disciplines.

• Compliance Assurance: Oversee strict compliance with Australian standards and regulations, including the NCC (National Construction Code), relevant Australian Standards (AS), and specific façade performance requirements (e.g., weatherproofing, thermal, acoustic, fire safety).

• Cross-functional Communication: Act as the key interface between Design and Delivery Teams, ensuring clear communication of façade design intent, identified risks, and any necessary changes throughout the project lifecycle.

• Design Review & Value Engineering: Lead façade-focused design reviews, workshops, and value engineering processes, fostering innovation while maintaining design integrity, performance, and cost efficiency.

• Quality & Performance Validation: Coordinate mock-ups, testing regimes (e.g., performance testing), and site inspections to validate façade design outcomes and ensure adherence to stringent quality standards.

• Technical Guidance: Provide leadership and technical guidance to internal teams and stakeholders on façade systems, materials, and construction methodologies.

• Aesthetic & Performance Outcomes: Ensure the delivery of high-quality aesthetic, technical, and performance outcomes that align with architectural intent and client expectations.

• Deliverable & Programme Management: Manage design deliverables, programme milestones, and approvals associated with façade packages to ensure project timelines are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary responsibilities highlight a strong emphasis on technical leadership, compliance, and project management within the specialized field of façade design. The need to coordinate multiple disciplines and external parties underscores the importance of strong communication and problem-solving skills.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture or a related design discipline. Experience:

• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in façade design management roles, demonstrating a strong track record of successful project delivery. Required Skills:

• Façade Design Management: Proven expertise in managing the entire design lifecycle of façade systems from concept to completion.

• Architectural Design Principles: Strong understanding of architectural design, aesthetics, and integration with building structures.

• Technical Coordination: Ability to effectively coordinate with structural, architectural, and building services engineering disciplines to resolve design clashes and ensure system integration.

• Australian Building Codes & Standards: In-depth knowledge of the National Construction Code (NCC) and relevant Australian Standards (AS) pertaining to façade performance.

• Project Management Fundamentals: Solid understanding of project management principles, including scope, schedule, and budget management.

• Contractual Understanding: Familiarity with construction contracts and the implications for design deliverables and responsibilities.

• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for liaising with internal teams, external consultants, and stakeholders.

Preferred Skills:

• Spanish Language Proficiency: Highly regarded, but not mandatory, indicating potential for international project involvement or team collaboration.

• Specialist Façade Systems Knowledge: Deep understanding of various façade systems, materials, and fabrication processes.

• Performance Testing & Simulation: Experience with façade performance testing methodologies and simulation tools.

• Value Engineering Techniques: Demonstrated ability to identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising design integrity or performance.

• Construction Methodology: Practical knowledge of construction sequencing and buildability for complex façade systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required qualification in Architecture, combined with 5 years of specific façade design management experience, positions this role for an individual with a strong technical foundation and practical project execution skills. The preference for Spanish language skills suggests potential international exposure or collaboration within SACYR's global operations.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Façade Design Case Studies: Showcase detailed examples of façade design projects managed, highlighting the scope, challenges, and solutions implemented. Include visual documentation such as drawings, renderings, and photos of completed works.

• Process Flow Diagrams: Demonstrate understanding of the design process by including examples of workflow diagrams for façade design development, coordination, and approval stages.

• Technical Documentation Samples: Provide samples of detailed design documentation, specifications, or technical reports related to façade systems that illustrate attention to detail and technical accuracy.

• Compliance Documentation: Examples of how compliance with building codes and standards (NCC, AS) was ensured and documented for façade elements.

• Value Engineering Proposals: Showcase instances where value engineering was successfully applied to façade designs, detailing the proposed changes and their impact on cost, performance, and aesthetics.

Process Documentation:

• Design Development Workflow: Documented processes for managing the transition from conceptual design to detailed design, including key review gates and approval checkpoints for façade systems.

• Coordination Protocols: Established protocols for coordinating façade design with other project disciplines (structural, MEP, architectural) to identify and resolve clashes proactively.

• Performance Verification Process: Documented procedures for mock-up construction, performance testing (e.g., water penetration, air leakage, wind load), and subsequent analysis and sign-off.

• Risk Management Procedures: Outlined processes for identifying, assessing, and mitigating design-related risks specific to façade systems throughout the project lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio demonstrating practical application of façade design principles, project management, and compliance assurance is crucial. Candidates should be prepared to articulate their role in managing complex processes and delivering tangible results.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for a Design Manager (Façades) with 5-10 years of experience in Perth, Western Australia, the estimated annual salary range is AUD $130,000 - $180,000. This estimate accounts for the required experience, specialized skill set, and the cost of living in Perth. Benefits:

• Globally Recognised Infrastructure Group: Opportunity to be part of a leading international company with a strong reputation in infrastructure development.

• Dynamic International Environment: Exposure to diverse projects and a multicultural workforce, fostering professional growth in a global context.

• Career Development: Potential for advancement within SACYR's expanding Australian operations and global network.

• Project Impact: The chance to play a pivotal role in shaping and supporting significant infrastructure projects in Australia.

• Standard Benefits: Likely to include superannuation contributions, paid time off, and potentially health insurance, consistent with Australian employment standards.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours, typically 40 hours per week, with potential for overtime depending on project demands. The role is on-site, requiring consistent presence at the project location.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on general market data for similar roles in Australia. Specific compensation will depend on the candidate's qualifications, experience, and the final negotiation. The listed benefits emphasize career growth and international exposure, aligning with SACYR's global presence.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction, Engineering, Concessions, Water Projects. SACYR operates in a demanding and complex sector requiring precision, safety, and innovation. The façade design management role is critical in ensuring the aesthetic and functional integrity of large-scale infrastructure.

Company Size: SACYR is a large, publicly traded company (Ibex 35 group) operating in over 15 countries, indicating a significant global footprint and robust organizational structure. This size provides stability and opportunities for diverse project involvement.

Founded: While the founding date isn't explicitly provided, SACYR's global presence and Ibex 35 listing suggest a long-standing and established company with a proven track record.

Team Structure:

• Design Team: The role involves leading and managing the façade design team, which likely includes specialist façade engineers, designers, and technicians.

• Project Management: Close collaboration with the Project Director and Project Delivery Teams, ensuring seamless integration of façade design into the overall project execution.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Extensive interaction with architectural, structural, MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing), and construction teams.

• External Stakeholders: Management of relationships with façade consultants, specialist subcontractors, suppliers, and potentially client representatives.

Methodology:

• Integrated Design Approach: Emphasis on collaboration and early engagement of all disciplines to ensure design coherence and efficiency.

• Compliance-Driven Processes: Strict adherence to Australian building codes, standards, and project-specific requirements.

• Performance-Focused Outcomes: Commitment to delivering façades that meet stringent performance criteria (weather resistance, thermal efficiency, acoustic performance, fire safety).

• Risk Management: Proactive identification and mitigation of design and construction risks associated with complex façade systems.

• Continuous Improvement: Encouragement of innovation, value engineering, and learning from project experiences to enhance future outcomes.

Company Website: https://sacyrpeople.sacyr.com

📝 Enhancement Note: SACYR's global scale and focus on complex infrastructure projects suggests a culture that values expertise, precision, and collaborative problem-solving. The Australian operations are presented as a key area of growth, implying a dynamic and potentially fast-paced environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This Design Manager role is positioned at a mid-to-senior level within the operations and project execution framework. It requires significant technical expertise in façades, coupled with strong project management and leadership capabilities. The responsibility for leading design development from concept to construction indicates a high level of autonomy and accountability.

Reporting Structure: The role reports to the Project Director and involves leading a team of façade designers and consultants. This suggests a key leadership position within the project's technical leadership structure, with direct influence on design outcomes.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager for Façades directly impacts project success by ensuring the aesthetic integrity, functional performance, safety, and cost-effectiveness of a critical building component. Successful façade design management contributes significantly to client satisfaction, project profitability, and the overall quality and longevity of the built asset.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Expansion: Potential to lead larger or more complex façade design packages, or to transition into broader project management roles within SACYR's infrastructure division.

• Specialization Development: Opportunity to deepen expertise in advanced façade technologies, sustainable design, or specific material applications through involvement in diverse projects.

• International Exposure: Leverage the Spanish language skill and experience within SACYR's global network for potential overseas assignments or collaboration on international projects.

• Technical Authority: Become a recognized technical authority within the Australian operations for façade design and engineering.

• Mentorship: Opportunity to mentor junior designers and engineers, contributing to the development of the internal talent pool.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career progression within a major international construction group, with opportunities for both technical specialization and broader project leadership. The emphasis on growth within Australian operations suggests a strategic focus for the company.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is on-site, indicating a primary work environment within a project office or site-based operations hub. This setting facilitates close collaboration with construction teams and direct oversight of design implementation.

Office Location(s): The role is based in Shenton Park, Western Australia. This location serves as the operational base for managing façade design aspects of projects within the region. Proximity to project sites will be essential.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The project office environment will foster close collaboration with project managers, engineers, site supervisors, and other design discipline representatives.

• Technology Integration: Access to project management software, CAD/BIM tools, and communication platforms necessary for managing complex design documentation and coordination.

• Dynamic Setting: The work environment is likely to be fast-paced, with a focus on meeting project deadlines and resolving on-site challenges.

• Field Interaction: Frequent site visits and inspections will be a standard part of the role, requiring adaptability and a hands-on approach.

Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time hours (approx. 40 hours per week) are expected, with flexibility required to meet project demands. This may include occasional overtime or weekend work during critical project phases, common in the construction industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature of this role is key. Candidates should be comfortable working within a project team structure, potentially in a site office environment, and be prepared for the demands of active construction projects.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and portfolio to assess qualifications, experience, and suitability for the role.

• Technical Interview: In-depth discussion focusing on your façade design management experience, technical knowledge, understanding of Australian codes, and problem-solving capabilities. Expect questions related to specific project challenges and how you addressed them.

• Portfolio Presentation: A dedicated session where you will present selected case studies from your portfolio, detailing your role, the design process, challenges faced, solutions implemented, and outcomes achieved. Prepare to discuss your contributions to buildability, compliance, and performance.

• Team/Cultural Fit Interview: Meeting with the Project Director and potentially other key team members to assess your collaboration style, leadership potential, and alignment with SACYR's company values and operational approach.

• Final Interview: May involve senior management or HR for final evaluation and offer discussion.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your most relevant façade design management projects that best showcase your leadership, technical expertise, and problem-solving skills.

• Highlight Your Role: Clearly articulate your specific responsibilities and contributions within each project. Use "I" statements for personal achievements and "we" for team efforts.

• Quantify Impact: Wherever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the success of your designs – e.g., cost savings achieved through value engineering, improvements in performance metrics, adherence to schedule.

• Showcase Process: Include diagrams or explanations of the design processes you followed, particularly for coordination, compliance, and risk management.

• Visual Appeal: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, visually appealing, and easy to navigate. Use high-quality images, drawings, and concise descriptions.

• Address Compliance: Explicitly demonstrate how you ensured compliance with NCC and AS for façade systems in your examples.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Problem Scenario: Be prepared for a hypothetical façade design challenge or a technical problem scenario. Demonstrate your approach to analysis, solution generation, and decision-making under pressure.

• Code Interpretation: Practice articulating how you would interpret and apply specific clauses of the NCC or AS to a given façade design situation.

• Coordination Exercise: You might be asked to describe how you would resolve a clash between façade elements and structural or MEP systems. Focus on your communication and collaborative problem-solving strategy.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is non-negotiable for this role. Candidates must be prepared to articulate their experience in detail, demonstrating not just technical knowledge but also project management acumen and collaborative skills.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency in AutoCAD or similar 2D drafting software for technical drawings.

• BIM Software: Experience with Revit or other Building Information Modeling platforms is highly advantageous for 3D design, clash detection, and documentation.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with tools like MS Project, Primavera P6, or similar for programme scheduling and tracking.

• Collaboration Platforms: Experience with platforms like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for team communication and document sharing.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Façade Performance Analysis Tools: Familiarity with software used for thermal, acoustic, or structural analysis of façade systems (e.g., THERM, UWG, SAP2000 – specific tools may vary).

• Reporting Tools: Ability to generate reports on design progress, compliance status, and risk assessments using standard office software (e.g., Microsoft Word, Excel).

CRM & Automation:

• Document Management Systems: Experience with systems for managing large volumes of design documentation and revisions (e.g., Aconex, Procore).

• Design Review Platforms: Familiarity with tools that facilitate digital design reviews and markups.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with BIM software and project management/document management systems is increasingly standard for design management roles in large construction projects. Candidates should highlight their experience with tools that facilitate collaboration and efficient documentation.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: SACYR encourages finding new ways to solve challenges and improve processes, particularly in complex engineering and construction projects. This applies to finding efficient and effective façade solutions.

• Commitment & Responsibility: A strong sense of ownership for project outcomes, ensuring high standards are met and commitments to stakeholders are fulfilled.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Emphasis on working together across disciplines and with external partners to achieve common project goals.

• Safety & Quality: A paramount focus on ensuring the safety of operations and the quality of deliverables, especially critical in the construction industry.

• Integrity & Transparency: Conducting business ethically and maintaining open communication with all parties involved.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Expect a highly collaborative environment where close working relationships with architectural, structural, MEP, and construction teams are essential for success.

• Proactive Communication: A culture that values clear, timely, and proactive communication to prevent issues and ensure alignment.

• Constructive Feedback: Openness to providing and receiving constructive feedback to drive continuous improvement in design and execution.

• Problem-Solving Orientation: A team that actively works together to identify and resolve challenges, rather than assigning blame.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company values suggest a professional and results-oriented environment that prioritizes collaboration and high standards. Candidates should align their responses and examples with these core principles.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complex Façade Integration: Ensuring seamless integration of innovative or complex façade systems with the building's structure and services, while meeting stringent performance requirements.

• Coordination Across Disciplines: Managing potential clashes and ensuring effective communication between numerous internal and external stakeholders with diverse priorities.

• Compliance with Evolving Standards: Staying abreast of and ensuring adherence to the latest Australian building codes and standards, which can be subject to change.

• Balancing Aesthetics, Performance, and Cost: Achieving the desired architectural vision while meeting technical performance criteria and staying within budget constraints.

• Site-Specific Conditions: Adapting designs to unique site conditions, local regulations, and construction logistics in Australia.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Façade Technologies: Exposure to cutting-edge materials, systems, and sustainable façade solutions.

• Project Management Skills: Development of leadership and strategic planning capabilities through managing key project components.

• Australian Construction Landscape: Deepen understanding of the Australian construction industry, its regulations, and best practices.

• International Best Practices: Gain insights into global façade design trends and construction methodologies through SACYR's international network.

• Mentorship Programs: Opportunities to learn from experienced senior engineers and project directors within SACYR.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges that require a skilled and adaptable professional. However, these challenges are also tied to substantial growth and learning opportunities within a major international organization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for managing façade design from concept to construction, including key milestones and approval stages."

  • Preparation: Outline a clear, multi-stage process. Emphasize early stakeholder engagement, design reviews, buildability checks, and compliance verification. Use visual aids if possible.

• "How do you ensure compliance with the NCC and relevant Australian Standards for façade systems? Provide an example."

  • Preparation: Detail your approach to interpreting codes, working with consultants, conducting reviews, and documenting compliance. Be ready with a specific project example where you successfully navigated complex compliance requirements.

• "Walk me through a challenging façade design problem you encountered and how you resolved it, considering technical, commercial, and aesthetic aspects."

  • Preparation: Select a strong case study from your portfolio. Focus on the problem, your analytical approach, the solutions considered, your decision-making process, and the final outcome. Quantify the impact if possible. Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about SACYR and this specific role within our Australian operations?"

  • Preparation: Research SACYR's global projects, their commitment to innovation, and their presence in Australia. Connect your skills and career aspirations to the company's mission and the role's responsibilities.

• "How do you approach collaboration with different project teams, such as structural engineers and site construction managers?"

  • Preparation: Emphasize proactive communication, understanding of different disciplines' needs, conflict resolution skills, and a focus on shared project goals. Refer to past collaborative successes.

• "How do you ensure the quality and performance of façade systems are maintained throughout the design and construction phases?"

  • Preparation: Discuss your methods for quality assurance, including design reviews, mock-up approvals, performance testing protocols, and site inspections. Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Tell a Story: For each case study, frame it as a narrative: the challenge, your role and approach, the solutions developed, and the successful outcome.

• Focus on Your Impact: Clearly delineate your specific contributions and responsibilities.

• Highlight Key Processes: Show examples of your design process, coordination methods, and compliance strategies in action.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about technical specifications, materials, construction methods, and problem-solving approaches.

• Demonstrate Commercial Awareness: Briefly touch upon how your design decisions impacted project costs or value.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviews for this role will likely be rigorous, assessing both technical depth and project management capabilities. A well-prepared candidate will demonstrate a clear understanding of façade systems, Australian regulations, and effective collaborative leadership.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the SACYR People website.

• Tailor Your CV: Highlight your 5+ years of experience specifically in façade design management. Quantify achievements where possible, and ensure keywords like "Façade Design," "NCC Compliance," "Australian Standards," "Project Coordination," and "Value Engineering" are prominent.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a selection of your strongest façade design management projects. Ensure it clearly demonstrates your technical expertise, project leadership, problem-solving skills, and understanding of compliance. Be ready to present specific case studies that align with the responsibilities outlined.

• Research SACYR: Understand SACYR's global presence, their key project types, and their commitment to innovation. Familiarize yourself with their values and any recent news or projects in Australia.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare answers for common interview questions, focusing on STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions, and be ready to discuss your technical approach to façade design challenges and your understanding of Australian building codes.

⚠️ 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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