Design Manager - High Voltage, Data Centres

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager - High Voltage, Data Centres

Company: Goodman

Location: Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Engineering & Infrastructure Operations

Date Posted: July 29, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead high voltage (HV) and medium voltage (MV) design for critical data centre infrastructure projects within a global leader in essential infrastructure development.

• Manage the technical scope and ensure seamless integration between the electrical network and the data centre site, acting as a key interface with utilities and authorities.

• Oversee the entire design lifecycle, from initial grid connection studies and regulatory submissions to detailed design management and on-site conformance inspections during construction.

• Drive the specification of the Design-Build-Operate (DBO) scope for transmission connections and transformations, ensuring alignment with operational requirements and technical standards.

• Collaborate extensively with a multidisciplinary team of consultants, general contractors, vendors, and stakeholders to deliver complex, high-specification projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is highly specialized, focusing on the critical high voltage and medium voltage electrical infrastructure for data centres. It requires a deep understanding of power systems engineering, regulatory compliance, and project delivery within the energy and critical infrastructure sectors. The "Operations" aspect is centered on the design and implementation of the operational electrical infrastructure rather than ongoing operational management of the data centre's IT systems.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Manage and execute technical studies and submissions required for grid connection approvals from relevant authorities.

• Define and manage the DBO (Design-Build-Operate) scope for transmission connections and transformation to 132kV, ensuring it meets project requirements.

• Oversee the DBO design process, meticulously managing interfaces, operational requirements, and conducting conformance inspections during the construction phase.

• Lead consultants and the general contractor in the design and implementation of transformations to 22/33kV and the site reticulation between primary and secondary MV switchboards.

• Establish and rigorously maintain the basis of design, technical standards, and coordination processes across all assigned projects.

• Serve as the primary HV/MV design interface for utilities, regulatory authorities, vendors, consultants, contractors, and potentially customers.

• Proactively manage design risks, ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and standards, and oversee consultant commercial inputs and change control processes.

• Support the testing, commissioning, and handover readiness phases to ensure successful project completion and operational readiness.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary responsibilities highlight a strong emphasis on design management, technical leadership, and cross-functional coordination. This role is about translating high-level requirements into detailed, compliant, and constructible electrical designs for high-capacity power systems. The "operations" context is in ensuring the designed infrastructure reliably supports the future operational needs of the data centre.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering is a mandatory requirement.

• Postgraduate study in protection systems or substation design is highly regarded and will be considered a significant advantage. Experience:

• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in electrical engineering, with a substantial focus on high voltage (HV) and medium voltage (MV) systems.

• Significant experience in substation design, construction, and project delivery, with a proven track record of leading design management across multiple project delivery phases. Required Skills:

• Advanced knowledge of HV/MV design principles, encompassing both primary and secondary systems, with expertise ranging from 500kV down to 22kV.

• In-depth understanding and practical application of SCADA systems and substation construction methodologies.

• Strong, practical working knowledge of Australian energy regulations, specifically AEMO (Australian Energy Market Operator), TNSP (Transmission Network Service Provider), and DNSP (Distribution Network Service Provider) regulations.

• Comprehensive understanding of Victorian AHJ (Authorised Electrical Authority) requirements.

• Demonstrated experience in leading multidisciplinary consultants, contractors, and vendors on complex, large-scale projects.

• Confidence and proven ability in presenting technical positions and strategic recommendations to senior stakeholders and executive leadership.

• Established professional relationships with key transmission network service providers and utilities within the Australian energy sector. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with data centre specific power infrastructure design and challenges.

• Familiarity with international power system standards and best practices.

• Knowledge of renewable energy integration into grid infrastructure.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize deep technical expertise in power systems engineering, regulatory knowledge specific to Australia (especially Victoria), and strong project/design management capabilities. The mention of "postgraduate study" and specific voltage ranges (500kV to 22kV) indicates a need for specialized, advanced knowledge beyond a standard undergraduate degree.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 complex HV/MV design projects, ideally within critical infrastructure or data centre environments.

• For each project, clearly articulate your role, responsibilities, and key technical challenges overcome.

• Provide documentation or detailed descriptions of design studies performed, such as grid connection impact assessments, load flow studies, or fault current calculations.

• Include examples of technical specifications developed for HV/MV equipment (e.g., transformers, switchgear, protection relays).

• Demonstrate your ability to manage design interfaces with utilities and regulatory bodies, potentially through correspondence examples or process flowcharts. Process Documentation:

• Document your approach to defining and managing the Basis of Design (BoD) for HV/MV systems.

• Illustrate your methodology for managing design risk, compliance, and change control in complex projects.

• Provide examples of your process for conducting conformance inspections during construction and ensuring design intent is met.

• Outline your strategy for collaborating with and managing multidisciplinary teams, including consultants, contractors, and vendors.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role at this technical level, a portfolio is crucial. It needs to demonstrate not just theoretical knowledge but practical application of complex power systems design and management, specifically highlighting experience with regulatory compliance and large-scale project delivery. The focus is on the process of design and how it ensures successful operational outcomes.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Based on industry benchmarks for a Design Manager with 10+ years of experience in specialized HV/MV design for critical infrastructure in Melbourne, Australia, the estimated salary range is AUD $160,000 - $220,000 per annum. This range accounts for the advanced technical expertise, leadership responsibilities, and the specific demands of the data centre industry.

Benefits:

• Paid Parental Leave

• Study assistance for postgraduate and undergraduate courses

• Discretionary bonus scheme

• Eligibility to participate in Goodman’s share scheme

• Comprehensive Wellness program, including:

  • Exercise classes

  • Meditation and yoga sessions

  • Social events to foster team cohesion

  • Exclusive discounts

  • Cooking classes

  • Financial wellbeing seminars Working Hours:

This is a full-time, on-site position. Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday. Occasional flexibility may be required to meet project deadlines, attend critical site activities, or coordinate with global teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on data from Australian salary aggregators for senior engineering management roles in Melbourne and specialized roles in infrastructure/construction. The benefits package is extensive, reflecting Goodman's commitment to employee well-being and long-term engagement.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Real Estate Development & Investment, with a significant focus on Logistics Properties and Data Centres. Goodman is a global leader in providing essential infrastructure for the digital economy.

Company Size: Large (typically over 1,000 employees globally, with a significant presence in Australia). This size indicates a structured corporate environment with established processes and ample resources.

Founded: Goodman was founded in 1989. Their data centre capability development began in 2005, showcasing a long-standing commitment to this sector.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager will likely be part of a larger Project Delivery or Development team for Data Centres in Australia.

• This team will include project managers, other engineering specialists (e.g., mechanical, structural), construction managers, and potentially commercial/legal support.

• Reporting structure will likely be to a Senior Project Manager or Head of Data Centre Development (Australia).

• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, requiring close liaison with development, construction, operations, and potentially leasing teams. Methodology:

• Goodman emphasizes innovation, integrity, determination, and sustainability.

• Data-driven decision-making is inherent in infrastructure development, from site selection and power studies to construction and operational efficiency.

• Workflow planning and optimization are critical for managing complex, multi-stakeholder projects like data centres, ensuring timely and cost-effective delivery.

• Automation and efficiency are likely key drivers, particularly in the design and construction phases to manage costs and timelines.

Company Website: https://au.goodman.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Goodman's focus on "essential infrastructure for the digital economy" and "making space for greatness" suggests a company that values impactful, forward-thinking work. The emphasis on sustainability and innovation is also a key cultural indicator for potential employees.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior-level position within the engineering and technical leadership track for infrastructure development. It is a specialist role focused on the critical electrical design aspects of data centres, requiring deep technical expertise and management experience.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will report to senior leadership within the Data Centre Development or Project Delivery team, likely a Project Director or Head of Development. They will, in turn, manage external consultants and contractors responsible for the detailed HV/MV design and construction.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager has a profound impact on the operational capability, reliability, and efficiency of Goodman's data centres. Their design decisions directly influence power availability, system stability, energy consumption, future scalability, and overall operational costs. A well-designed HV/MV system is foundational to a high-performing data centre.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in advanced HV/MV design, substation automation, or grid integration for renewable energy sources within data centres.

• Leadership: Progress to a role managing a larger team of design engineers, or take on broader project management responsibilities for entire data centre developments.

• Strategic Input: Contribute to Goodman's global standards and best practices for data centre electrical design and infrastructure development.

• Industry Influence: Become a subject matter expert, potentially representing Goodman at industry forums or conferences.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for technical specialists to grow into leadership positions within a rapidly expanding and critical sector. The emphasis is on building tangible, high-impact infrastructure.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based on-site in Melbourne, indicating a professional office environment within Goodman's Australian headquarters or a dedicated project office. This setting facilitates direct collaboration with project teams.

Office Location(s): Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. Specific office details can be confirmed during the application process.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will be collaborative, requiring frequent interaction with project managers, engineers, and external stakeholders.

• Access to relevant design software, project management tools, and company-wide communication platforms will be provided.

• Opportunities for site visits to active construction zones are integral to the role, offering practical, hands-on experience and oversight.

• The environment is expected to be fast-paced, driven by project timelines and the demanding nature of data centre development.

Work Schedule: The standard 40-hour work week is expected, with flexibility to accommodate project milestones, site visits, and urgent technical matters. This may involve occasional early mornings or late afternoons to align with different stakeholder time zones or site activities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature of the role is crucial for effective management of complex, physical infrastructure projects, allowing for direct oversight and rapid problem-solving.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or a Talent Acquisition Specialist will review applications and conduct a brief screening call to assess basic qualifications and cultural fit.

• Technical Interview(s): Expect one or more in-depth interviews with hiring managers and senior engineers/project leads. These will focus heavily on your HV/MV design experience, regulatory knowledge, problem-solving abilities, and project management approach.

• Portfolio Presentation: Be prepared to present a selection of your most relevant projects from your portfolio. This is where you'll articulate your technical contributions, design decisions, and project outcomes.

• Stakeholder/Leadership Interview: A final interview may involve senior management or key stakeholders to assess strategic thinking, leadership potential, and overall fit with Goodman's culture and values.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-4 projects that best showcase your HV/MV design expertise, regulatory compliance experience, and project management skills within critical infrastructure.

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

  • Project scope and objectives
  • Your specific role and responsibilities
  • Key technical challenges and design solutions implemented
  • How you managed interfaces with utilities and authorities
  • Compliance aspects and regulatory approvals obtained
  • Project outcomes, including any efficiency improvements or lessons learned

• Quantify Achievements: Wherever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the impact of your work (e.g., capacity delivered, cost savings achieved through design optimization, reduction in project timelines).

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions on your design choices, calculations, and risk mitigation strategies.

Challenge Preparation:

• Review common HV/MV design challenges in data centre environments (e.g., power stability, redundancy, grid connection constraints, thermal management of substations).

• Prepare to discuss how you would approach a hypothetical scenario, such as designing the power distribution for a new data hall or troubleshooting a grid connection issue.

• Practice articulating complex technical concepts clearly and concisely, as you will need to communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will be rigorous, emphasizing technical depth, practical experience, and the ability to manage complex projects and stakeholders. The portfolio is a critical component for demonstrating applied expertise.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Electrical Design Software: Proficiency with industry-standard CAD and electrical design software such as AutoCAD Electrical, Revit MEP (for BIM integration), ETAP (Electrical Transient Analyzer Program), or similar specialized power system analysis tools.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with platforms like Microsoft Project, Asana, Jira, or Goodman's internal project management systems for tracking tasks, timelines, and resources.

• BIM Software: Experience with Building Information Modeling (BIM) tools for integrated design and coordination, especially if Revit MEP is used.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Power System Analysis Tools: Advanced software for load flow, fault studies, protection coordination, and transient stability analysis (e.g., ETAP, PSS/E, PowerFactory DIgSILENT).

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret data from grid studies, equipment performance logs, and compliance reports.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design data integrates with broader project management and asset management systems is beneficial.

• Familiarity with workflow automation tools for design review processes or report generation could be an advantage.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis is on specialized electrical engineering design and analysis software. Proficiency in these tools is essential for performing the core duties of the role effectively.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation: Encouraging new ideas and challenging conventional thinking in HV/MV design to improve efficiency, reliability, and sustainability.

• Integrity: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all design, compliance, and stakeholder interactions.

• Determination: A persistent approach to solving complex technical challenges and driving projects to successful completion.

• Sustainability: Integrating environmentally conscious design principles and energy-efficient solutions into all projects.

• Collaboration: Fostering a team-oriented environment where knowledge sharing and mutual support are paramount.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive and communicative, ensuring all stakeholders are well-informed about design progress, potential issues, and required actions.

• Cross-functional integration is key, working closely with project managers, construction teams, and external partners to ensure seamless project execution.

• A culture of constructive feedback and continuous improvement, where design processes and technical solutions are regularly reviewed and refined.

📝 Enhancement Note: Goodman's stated values align with a professional, results-oriented, and forward-thinking work environment. For this role, collaboration means effectively bridging the gap between design engineering, construction reality, and operational requirements.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Grid Integration Complexity: Navigating the technical and regulatory hurdles of connecting large-scale data centre power demands to existing electricity grids, especially in constrained urban environments.

• Rapid Technological Evolution: Keeping abreast of advancements in HV/MV equipment, grid modernization technologies, and data centre power architectures.

• Stakeholder Management: Balancing the diverse interests and technical requirements of utilities, regulatory bodies, construction partners, and internal project teams.

• Ensuring Redundancy & Reliability: Designing highly resilient power systems that meet the stringent uptime requirements of data centres (e.g., N+1, 2N configurations).

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Training: Access to advanced courses and certifications in HV/MV systems, substation design, power system protection, and data centre electrical infrastructure.

• Industry Conferences: Opportunities to attend leading industry events and conferences focused on power engineering, data centres, and infrastructure development.

• Mentorship: Potential for mentorship from senior leaders within Goodman's global engineering and development teams.

• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Gaining insights into other aspects of data centre development, such as mechanical systems, IT infrastructure, and construction management.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant technical challenges that are integral to the growth and development of a specialist in the field. Goodman's support for learning and development will be key to navigating these challenges and advancing one's career.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex HV/MV design challenge you faced in a recent project and how you resolved it. What was the outcome?" (Focus on technical problem-solving, decision-making process, and impact).

• "How do you ensure compliance with AEMO, TNSP, and DNSP regulations throughout the design and construction phases for a new substation?" (Assess regulatory knowledge and process adherence).

• "Walk us through your process for managing the interface and technical requirements with a Transmission Network Service Provider for a major grid connection." (Evaluate stakeholder management and communication skills).

• "How would you approach the Basis of Design for a new 132kV substation serving a large data centre, considering future expansion?" (Test strategic thinking and foresight in design). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Goodman's role in developing essential infrastructure for the digital economy?" (Gauge alignment with company mission).

• "How do you foster a collaborative environment when working with diverse external teams like consultants and contractors?" (Assess teamwork and interpersonal skills).

• "Goodman values sustainability. How would you incorporate sustainable design principles into HV/MV electrical systems for data centres?" (Understand commitment to ESG principles). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Focus on Impact: For each project, emphasize the "so what?" – what was the impact of your design decisions on project success, reliability, or efficiency.

• Visual Aids: Use diagrams, schematics, or simplified flowcharts to explain complex technical concepts clearly.

• Concise Storytelling: Structure your project narratives logically, highlighting the problem, your solution, and the result.

• Be Ready for Q&A: Anticipate detailed technical questions about your design choices, calculations, and risk assessments.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating deep technical expertise, a structured approach to problem-solving, strong regulatory knowledge, and the ability to manage complex stakeholder relationships within the context of critical infrastructure development.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

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

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight your experience with HV/MV design, substation projects, data centres (if applicable), regulatory compliance (AEMO, TNSP, DNSP), and project/design management. Use keywords from the job description.

• Portfolio Preparation: Assemble a professional portfolio showcasing your most relevant HV/MV design projects, ensuring it clearly articulates your role, technical contributions, and project outcomes. Be ready to present key case studies.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Goodman's global operations, their emphasis on data centres, and their core values (innovation, integrity, determination, sustainability). Understand their position in the market.

• Prepare for Technical Scrutiny: Review fundamental electrical engineering principles related to power systems, protection, and substation design. Be prepared to discuss specific design methodologies and regulatory requirements.

⚠️ 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.

---