Design Manager - Transmission & Distribution

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager - Transmission & Distribution

Company: AECOM

Location: Birmingham, United Kingdom

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Engineering Management / Operations

Date Posted: 2026-08-06T10:37:56.467

Experience Level: 5-10 years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversee complex, multi-disciplinary engineering design projects within the Transmission & Distribution (T&D) sector, from initial concept through to final delivery.

• Act as a Technical Project Manager, coordinating various engineering disciplines including substation primary, cabling, protection & control, civils, overhead lines, and environmental scopes.

• Drive adherence to AECOM and client design management processes, ensuring projects meet stringent safety, health, environmental, sustainability, and quality standards.

• Foster a strong "Safety by Design" culture, promoting continuous improvement in safety, constructability, and asset operability by staying abreast of industry best practices.

• Support business development initiatives by contributing to proposal preparation, leading client presentations, and participating in contract negotiations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a senior engineering management position with a strong operational oversight component, focusing on the successful execution and delivery of T&D infrastructure projects. The emphasis on "Safety by Design" and "asset operability" indicates a need for an operations-minded individual who understands the long-term implications of design decisions.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the technical delivery of multi-disciplinary design projects for Transmission & Distribution (T&D) infrastructure, ensuring timely and budget-compliant execution.

• Coordinate and integrate the efforts of various engineering disciplines, including but not limited to substation primary and secondary systems, power systems analysis, cabling, protection and control, civils, overhead lines, and environmental engineering.

• Oversee the entire design lifecycle of projects, from conceptualization and Front-End Engineering Design (FEED) through to detailed engineering, permitting, consenting, and planning stages.

• Ensure all design submissions and deliverables rigorously comply with relevant codes, standards, client specifications, and AECOM's quality assurance protocols.

• Proactively manage project progress, identifying and mitigating risks related to schedule, cost, procurement, safety, environmental concerns, and design challenges.

• Manage resource allocation, including coordinating with global Enterprise Capability offices, and oversee subcontractor performance to ensure seamless project execution.

• Engage in client-facing activities, leading project and client meetings, and representing AECOM with professionalism and integrity.

• Contribute to business growth by supporting proposal preparation, leading technical presentations, and actively participating in contract negotiations and scope definition.

• Implement and champion a "Safety by Design" philosophy, ensuring that safety, health, environmental, and sustainability considerations are integrated into all stages of the design process.

• Conduct internal reviews and quality checks of engineering deliverables, including complex designs, reports, proposals, presentations, and drawing packages, to maintain high technical standards.

• Identify and implement opportunities for design optimization and cost efficiencies throughout project lifecycles.

• Provide mentorship, technical guidance, and professional development support to junior engineers and design teams, fostering a culture of learning and continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The breadth of responsibilities indicates a need for a candidate with strong project management capabilities and a deep understanding of the T&D engineering lifecycle. The emphasis on multi-disciplinary coordination and client engagement suggests a role that requires both technical acumen and strong interpersonal and leadership skills.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Degree qualified in Electrical or Power Systems Engineering, or an equivalent relevant engineering discipline. Experience:

• Demonstrated experience in managing complex, multi-discipline Transmission & Distribution (T&D), renewables, or large infrastructure design projects.

• Proven track record of meeting delivery requirements for clients within the UK & Ireland.

• Experience in overseeing the full project lifecycle, from concept through FEED to detailed engineering, including permitting and consenting. Required Skills:

• Transmission & Distribution Engineering: Comprehensive understanding of T&D systems, including substations, cabling, protection, and control.

• Project Management: Proven ability to manage complex, multi-disciplinary design projects, including scope, schedule, budget, and resource allocation.

• Design Leadership: Experience in leading engineering design teams and ensuring adherence to technical standards and quality assurance processes.

• Stakeholder Management: Excellent client relationship management skills, with the ability to lead project meetings and represent AECOM professionally.

• Safety & Quality Assurance: Strong commitment to "Safety by Design" principles and ensuring compliance with safety, health, environmental, sustainability, and quality standards.

• Technical Review: Proficiency in checking and reviewing engineering deliverables such as complex designs, reports, and drawing packages.

• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, essential for client interaction, team coordination, and proposal development.

Preferred Skills:

• Working experience with National Grid and other Transmission System Operator (TSO) projects.

• Chartered Engineer status (e.g., IET) or equivalent professional certifications (e.g., LCDAE/CDAE).

• Business development and proposal generation experience.

• Familiarity with power systems analysis software and design tools.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize a blend of technical expertise in T&D engineering and robust project and people management skills. The preference for National Grid/TSO experience and Chartered status highlights the seniority and specific industry knowledge expected for this role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Delivery Case Studies: Showcase examples of successfully managed multi-disciplinary T&D design projects, detailing scope, challenges, solutions, and outcomes.

• Process Optimization Examples: Demonstrate instances where you identified and implemented design optimization or cost efficiency improvements within engineering projects.

• System Integration Experience: Evidence of managing projects involving the integration of various engineering systems (e.g., primary, secondary, SCADA, communications).

• Safety & Quality Documentation: Examples of how safety and quality assurance processes were integrated into project design and management, including review documentation.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Ability to document and articulate complex engineering workflows and demonstrate how they were optimized for efficiency and safety.

• Implementation & Automation: Understanding of how design processes translate into constructible assets and where automation or digital tools were leveraged.

• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Examples of how project performance, design integrity, and client satisfaction were measured and analyzed.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role, a portfolio should emphasize strategic oversight, process management, and team leadership rather than just individual technical contributions. Highlighting successful project delivery, process improvements, and adherence to stringent operational standards will be key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for a Design Manager with 5-10 years of experience in the UK's T&D engineering sector, the estimated salary range is approximately £60,000 - £85,000 per annum. This range can vary based on specific experience, qualifications, and the exact nature of the projects managed. Benefits:

• Career Development Opportunities: Access to training and development programs to enhance technical and leadership skills.

• Flexible Hybrid Working Model: Encourages a healthy work-life balance by allowing a mix of office-based and remote work.

• Technical Practice Networks: Opportunities to connect with and learn from experts across AECOM's global network.

• AECOM University: A platform for continuous learning and professional growth.

• Volunteering Days: Paid time off to support community initiatives.

• Comprehensive health and well-being programs.

• Pension scheme.

• Life assurance.

• Paid annual leave. Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours are typically 40 hours per week. The hybrid work model offers flexibility in scheduling, allowing for a balance between core working hours and personal needs, subject to project demands and team coordination.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on typical compensation for senior engineering management roles in the UK infrastructure sector, considering the specified experience level and the company's industry. AECOM, as a large global firm, is expected to offer a competitive benefits package.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Infrastructure Consulting (Engineering, Design, Program Management) – a critical sector supporting global development and sustainability initiatives.

Company Size: Large (AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm with over 50,000 employees globally), offering extensive resources, diverse project opportunities, and a broad professional network.

Founded: AECOM has a long history, with its origins tracing back to the early 20th century, evolving into a global leader in infrastructure consulting. This legacy implies a culture of established expertise, stability, and a forward-looking approach to innovation.

Team Structure:

• Operations Team: The T&D Engineering team is part of AECOM's Energy Business Line, likely structured with Discipline Leads for specialized areas (substation, cabling, protection, etc.), Project Managers for overall project execution, and a hierarchical management structure supporting the Design Manager.

• Global Collaboration: The role involves working closely with global Enterprise Capability offices, indicating a matrixed organizational structure where project needs dictate team composition.

• Cross-functional Integration: The Design Manager will collaborate extensively with other AECOM business lines (e.g., environmental, civil, digital innovation) and external stakeholders including clients (like National Grid), regulatory bodies, and subcontractors.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Emphasis on using data for Power Systems Analysis, project performance tracking, and informed decision-making.

• Process Optimization: Continuous focus on improving engineering workflows, safety protocols, and cost efficiencies throughout the project lifecycle.

• Digital Innovation: AECOM is investing in digital tools and technologies, suggesting an environment that embraces innovation in design, project management, and client reporting.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's culture is likely to be professional, collaborative, and focused on delivering complex projects with a strong emphasis on technical excellence and client satisfaction. The company's global reach and commitment to sustainability are key cultural drivers.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior-level position within engineering management, bridging technical design leadership with operational project oversight. It's a key role for driving project success and ensuring the seamless integration of design and operational considerations.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will likely report to a Director or Senior Manager within the T&D business line, with direct oversight of project-specific engineering teams and coordination with Project Managers.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's role is pivotal in ensuring that infrastructure projects are designed for optimal performance, safety, and long-term operability. Their decisions directly influence project timelines, budgets, client satisfaction, and the ultimate success and impact of AECOM's infrastructure solutions, contributing significantly to the company's reputation and revenue.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Progression to roles such as Director of Engineering, Head of T&D Design, or Senior Program Manager overseeing larger, more complex initiatives.

• Specialization & Expertise: Deepening expertise in specific T&D technologies (e.g., HVDC, grid modernization) or expanding into broader program management roles.

• Business Development & Client Relations: Developing a stronger client portfolio and taking on more strategic business development responsibilities.

• Mentorship & Knowledge Transfer: Becoming a key mentor and leader within AECOM, shaping the next generation of T&D engineers and managers.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear path for career progression within engineering management and project leadership, with opportunities to specialize or broaden responsibilities within a global infrastructure firm.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid work model, combining office-based collaboration with remote flexibility. The primary office location mentioned is Birmingham, UK, specifically Colmore Plaza.

Office Location(s):

• Primary: UK - Birmingham - Colmore Plaza.

• Potential for collaboration with teams in Newcastle-Upon-Tyne and other UK/Ireland locations, as well as global Enterprise Capability offices. Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The hybrid model is designed to foster collaboration through in-office days, team meetings, and project workshops, while allowing for focused individual work remotely.

• Tools & Technology: Access to AECOM's suite of design, project management, and communication tools, including specialized engineering software for T&D analysis and design.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities to interact with a diverse team of engineers, project managers, and discipline specialists, fostering knowledge sharing and cross-functional learning.

Work Schedule: While typically based around a 40-hour work week, the hybrid model provides flexibility. Project deadlines and client needs may require adjustments to the schedule, but the overall aim is to support work-life balance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid environment at AECOM is structured to balance the benefits of in-person collaboration for complex problem-solving and team building with the flexibility of remote work for individual productivity.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and application, focusing on T&D design management experience, project portfolio, and qualifications.

• Technical Interview: Discussion with T&D subject matter experts and engineering leadership to assess technical depth, problem-solving skills, and understanding of T&D systems. This may involve discussing specific project challenges or design scenarios.

• Project/Portfolio Review: Presentation of selected case studies from your portfolio, demonstrating your approach to managing multi-disciplinary projects, implementing safety by design, and achieving project objectives. Be prepared to discuss metrics, challenges, and your specific contributions.

• Management & Behavioral Interview: Assessment of leadership style, team management capabilities, client relationship skills, and cultural fit with AECOM's values. Questions will likely focus on how you handle conflict, motivate teams, and drive performance.

• Final Interview: Discussion with senior management, potentially including a Director, to confirm suitability for the role and discuss career aspirations within AECOM.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 2-3 high-impact projects that best showcase your T&D design management experience, multi-disciplinary coordination, and successful project delivery.

• Quantify Achievements: Use metrics to demonstrate project success (e.g., cost savings, schedule adherence, safety incident reduction, design efficiency improvements).

• Focus on Process & Problem-Solving: Detail your approach to managing complexity, mitigating risks, and fostering a "Safety by Design" culture. Explain the processes you implemented and why.

• Highlight Collaboration: Emphasize how you collaborated with different disciplines, stakeholders, and global teams to achieve project goals.

• Tailor to AECOM: Research AECOM's current projects and values, and subtly tailor your examples to align with their strategic priorities (e.g., sustainability, digital innovation).

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Be prepared for hypothetical scenarios related to project challenges, team conflicts, client issues, or technical dilemmas. Outline your structured approach to problem-solving.

• Process Improvement Thinking: Anticipate questions about how you would improve design processes, enhance safety, or drive efficiency within the T&D team.

• Stakeholder Communication: Practice articulating complex technical and project management concepts clearly and concisely for different audiences (technical teams, clients, senior management).

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is likely to be rigorous, testing both technical expertise and management capabilities. A well-prepared portfolio that clearly articulates your contributions and impact is crucial for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency with tools like Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or similar for scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking.

• Design & Engineering Software: Familiarity with T&D specific design tools and platforms (e.g., AutoCAD, MicroStation, specialized power system analysis software like PSS/E, ETAP, PowerFactory DIgSILENT).

• Collaboration Platforms: Experience with Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, or similar for document sharing, communication, and virtual meetings.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret project performance data, engineering analysis results, and financial reports.

• Reporting Dashboards: Experience in creating or utilizing dashboards for project status, KPIs, and risk monitoring.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: Understanding of how client relationship management works in a consulting context, though direct CRM tool usage might be less critical than project management software.

• Workflow Automation: Awareness of how digital tools can automate aspects of the design process, documentation, or reporting to improve efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific tool requirements aren't detailed, a strong candidate will demonstrate proficiency with industry-standard project management and engineering design software, along with an openness to leveraging digital tools for efficiency and collaboration.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: A paramount commitment to ensuring the safety of personnel and the public through robust "Safety by Design" principles and operational practices.

• Integrity & Ethics: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all dealings, as detailed in AECOM's Code of Conduct.

• Excellence & Innovation: Striving for technical excellence, delivering high-quality solutions, and embracing innovation to solve complex infrastructure challenges.

• Collaboration & Inclusion: Fostering a diverse and inclusive environment where all team members feel valued and can contribute their unique perspectives.

• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and meeting client needs, building strong partnerships, and delivering exceptional value.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Encouraging seamless collaboration between different engineering disciplines, project management, and support functions to achieve unified project goals.

• Open Communication: Promoting a culture where feedback is welcomed, challenges are discussed openly, and knowledge is shared freely across teams and global offices.

• Team Empowerment: Empowering team members with the autonomy and support needed to succeed, fostering a sense of shared responsibility and ownership.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's culture appears to be built on strong professional values, emphasizing safety, integrity, and a commitment to delivering impactful infrastructure solutions through collaborative and innovative approaches.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Complex Stakeholder Landscapes: Navigating the diverse interests and requirements of multiple stakeholders, including clients (e.g., National Grid), regulatory bodies, and internal teams.

• Balancing Technical Rigor with Project Constraints: Ensuring high technical and safety standards are met while adhering to strict project timelines and budgets.

• Integrating Global Teams: Effectively managing and coordinating design efforts across different geographical locations and Enterprise Capability offices, ensuring consistent quality and communication.

• Adapting to Evolving T&D Technologies: Staying current with rapid advancements in T&D technology, grid modernization, and renewable energy integration, and applying these to designs.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Access to specialized courses and certifications in areas like grid modernization, HVDC systems, renewable integration, and advanced power systems analysis.

• Leadership Development Programs: Opportunities to hone management, strategic planning, and business development skills through AECOM's internal leadership and development programs.

• Industry Conferences & Networking: Participation in key industry events to stay abreast of trends, network with peers, and represent AECOM.

• Mentorship: Opportunities to be mentored by senior leaders within AECOM and to mentor junior staff, fostering continuous growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant opportunities for professional growth by tackling complex engineering and management challenges within a dynamic and critical industry sector.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you managed a complex, multi-disciplinary T&D design project. What were the key challenges, how did you overcome them, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on your process, leadership, and problem-solving).

• "How do you ensure 'Safety by Design' principles are embedded throughout the entire design lifecycle of a project?" (Highlight your proactive approach and understanding of risk management).

• "Imagine a situation where a key discipline lead disagrees with your proposed design direction. How would you handle this to reach a resolution?" (Assess conflict resolution and stakeholder management skills). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about AECOM's work in the Transmission & Distribution sector, particularly in the UK?" (Demonstrate research into their projects, like the Great Grid Partnership).

• "How do you foster a collaborative and inclusive environment within your project teams, especially when working with global colleagues?" (Align your answer with AECOM's stated values).

• "How do you measure the success of a design project beyond just technical completion?" (Discuss impact on client satisfaction, operability, safety, and cost-efficiency). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each project, clearly outline the context, your role and responsibilities, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented (emphasizing your management approach), and the measurable results.

• Highlight Operational Impact: Focus on how your design decisions contribute to the long-term operability, safety, and efficiency of the infrastructure.

• Use Visuals: Incorporate diagrams, charts, or timelines where appropriate to illustrate complex processes or project progress.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about your technical decisions, project management methodologies, and specific contributions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare to discuss specific examples that showcase your ability to manage complex projects, lead diverse teams, and champion safety and quality within the T&D engineering domain.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the AECOM careers portal via the provided link.

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight your experience in Transmission & Distribution engineering design management, multi-disciplinary project leadership, and client relationship management. Use keywords from the job description such as "Transmission & Distribution," "Design Manager," "multi-disciplinary," "Safety by Design," and "project lifecycle."

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate 2-3 strong case studies that exemplify your project management skills, technical oversight, and ability to deliver complex T&D infrastructure projects. Ensure these demonstrate your approach to safety, quality, and operational considerations.

• Research AECOM: Familiarize yourself with AECOM's recent projects, especially in the T&D sector and their involvement with clients like National Grid. Understand their company culture, values, and commitment to sustainability.

• Practice Your Presentation: Rehearse presenting your portfolio case studies, focusing on clear articulation, quantifiable achievements, and demonstrating your strategic thinking and leadership capabilities.

⚠️ 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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