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: 2026-08-06

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

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage multi-disciplinary engineering design projects within the Transmission & Distribution (T&D) sector, ensuring successful project delivery from concept to completion.

• Drive operational excellence by overseeing project lifecycles, adhering to stringent safety, quality, and sustainability standards, and fostering a "Safety by Design" culture.

• Develop and maintain strong client relationships, acting as a key point of contact for project updates, negotiations, and business development initiatives.

• Mentor and guide engineering teams, promoting technical excellence, professional development, and efficient resource allocation across global Enterprise Capability offices.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within AECOM's Energy business line, specifically focusing on Transmission & Distribution. The emphasis on managing multi-disciplinary projects, client relationships, and adhering to strict standards suggests a significant operational and project management component, critical for GTM (Go-To-Market) success in infrastructure consulting. The mention of the UK National Grid's Great Grid Partnership highlights the scale and strategic importance of the projects.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Oversee the end-to-end lifecycle of engineering design projects in Transmission & Distribution (T&D) across the UK & Ireland.

• Act as Technical Project Manager for multi-disciplinary design projects, coordinating with Discipline Leads (substation primary, cables, protection & control, civils, overhead lines, environmental).

• Manage project phases including concept development, FEED (Front-End Engineering Design), environmental assessments, permitting, consenting, planning, cost estimation, and detailed engineering.

• Ensure all design submissions and project outcomes comply with relevant codes, industry standards, client requirements, and AECOM's design management processes.

• Uphold and promote AECOM's "Safety by Design" culture, ensuring projects meet safety, health, environmental, sustainability, and quality (SHEQ) standards.

• Manage project progress, costs, schedules, procurement activities, and design challenges, providing regular updates to stakeholders and clients.

• Allocate resources effectively, coordinate subcontractors, and maintain design integrity and client satisfaction throughout project execution.

• Support proposal preparation, lead client presentations, and actively participate in contract negotiations to secure new business opportunities.

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

• Identify and implement opportunities for design optimization and cost efficiencies to enhance project value and AECOM's competitive edge.

• Provide mentorship, technical guidance, and professional development support to junior engineers and team members.

• Represent AECOM with professionalism and integrity, adhering to ethical standards and the company's Code of Conduct.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a blend of technical oversight and operational project management. The emphasis on managing multiple disciplines, project phases, and client interactions points to a role that is crucial for the successful execution of AECOM's T&D projects, directly impacting revenue and client satisfaction.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

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

• Significant demonstrated experience in managing complex, multi-discipline engineering design projects within Transmission & Distribution, renewables, or large infrastructure sectors.

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

• Experience working with National Grid and other Transmission System Operators (TSOs) is highly advantageous.

• Demonstrated client relationship management and business development skills.

• Experience in performing internal reviews and quality checks of engineering deliverables.

• Experience in identifying and implementing design optimization and cost efficiencies. Required Skills:

• Transmission & Distribution Engineering: Deep understanding of T&D systems, infrastructure, and operational principles.

• Project Management: Proven ability to manage multi-disciplinary projects from concept through to completion, including scope, schedule, budget, and resource management.

• Engineering Design Oversight: Experience in managing and reviewing complex engineering designs, calculations, and drawing packages.

• Client Relationship Management: Strong skills in building and maintaining client relationships, managing expectations, and driving business development.

• Stakeholder Management: Effective communication and collaboration with internal teams, clients, and subcontractors.

• Safety & Quality Assurance: Commitment to upholding "Safety by Design" principles and ensuring compliance with SHEQ standards.

• Technical Leadership: Ability to provide technical guidance, mentorship, and professional development to engineering teams.

• Business Acumen: Understanding of proposal preparation, contract negotiation, and opportunity identification.

• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication abilities for reporting, presentations, and negotiations.

Preferred Skills:

• Chartered Engineer status (e.g., EngTech, IEng, CEng) or equivalent.

• Experience with specific T&D technologies such as HVDC, SCADA, or advanced Power Systems Analysis tools.

• Familiarity with relevant UK and EU T&D design codes and standards.

• Experience in managing projects within large-scale infrastructure partnerships like the Great Grid Partnership.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualification requirements emphasize a strong technical foundation in power systems engineering coupled with robust project management and client-facing skills. The mention of specific TSO experience and chartership as advantageous suggests a desire for candidates who can hit the ground running and possess a high degree of professional credibility within the T&D sector.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate successful management of complex, multi-disciplinary engineering design projects, showcasing lifecycle oversight from concept to completion.

• Provide examples of projects where you have ensured adherence to stringent safety, health, environmental, sustainability, and quality (SHEQ) standards.

• Showcase instances of effective client relationship management, including successful project updates, client meetings, and contract negotiations.

• Present case studies that highlight your ability to identify and implement design optimization and cost efficiencies, delivering tangible ROI for clients and AECOM. Process Documentation:

• Illustrate your approach to managing project phases, including concept, FEED, environmental assessments, permitting, consenting, planning, cost estimation, and detailed engineering.

• Detail your methodology for overseeing the entire lifecycle of design projects, ensuring alignment with industry best practices and AECOM's design management processes.

• Provide examples of how you ensure design submissions comply with codes, standards, and quality requirements, along with your quality assurance review processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role, a portfolio should emphasize project execution, risk management, and stakeholder engagement. Candidates should be prepared to detail their processes for managing complex projects, ensuring compliance, and driving efficiency, all of which are core to successful operations in infrastructure consulting.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on AECOM's global presence, the typical salary range for a Design Manager with 5-10 years of experience in the UK, particularly in a major city like Birmingham, would likely fall between £55,000 to £75,000 per annum. This estimate considers the specialized nature of T&D engineering, the management responsibilities, and the company's standing. Benefits:

• Career Development Opportunities: Access to AECOM University, technical practice networks, and opportunities for professional growth and advancement.

• Flexible Hybrid Working Model: A balance between remote work and in-office collaboration to support work-life integration.

• Comprehensive Health and Well-being Programs: Tailored benefits designed to support employee well-being.

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

• Pension Scheme: Competitive pension contributions.

• Life Assurance: Coverage for peace of mind.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential support services.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are typically 40 hours per week. The hybrid working model offers flexibility in how these hours are structured and where they are performed, balancing project demands with personal needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on industry benchmarks for experienced engineering managers in the UK infrastructure sector. AECOM's benefits are highlighted to attract professionals seeking a supportive and growth-oriented work environment. The mention of a "Day 1 onboarding at an AECOM office location" in the additional information section is a critical detail for remote or hybrid candidates to note.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Infrastructure Consulting, Engineering, Construction, Energy. AECOM is a global leader in providing professional services across the entire project lifecycle for infrastructure development.

Company Size: Over 50,000 employees globally. This indicates a large, established organization with extensive resources, diverse expertise, and global reach. For operations professionals, this means potential for structured career paths, access to advanced tools and methodologies, and opportunities to work on large-scale, impactful projects.

Founded: AECOM has a long history, with its origins tracing back to 1910. This longevity suggests stability, deep industry knowledge, and a proven track record of successful project delivery.

Team Structure:

• The Transmission & Distribution (T&D) Engineering team is a specialized unit within AECOM's Energy business line, focusing on critical power infrastructure.

• This role involves working closely with Discipline Leads, Project Managers, and Directors, and drawing on global Enterprise Capability offices for specialized support, indicating a matrixed and collaborative reporting structure.

• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, involving primary substation, cabling, protection & control, civils, overhead lines, and environmental disciplines, as well as client-side teams. Methodology:

• AECOM emphasizes a data-driven approach to infrastructure development, utilizing advanced technical and digital expertise.

• Workflow planning and optimization are key, especially in managing the complex lifecycle of T&D design projects.

• The company promotes continuous improvement and innovation, encouraging the adoption of best practices and new technologies to enhance safety, constructability, and asset operability.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's size and global presence mean operations roles are likely to be well-defined with established processes, but also offer opportunities for influence and improvement within a large framework. The focus on digital innovation and sustainability aligns with modern infrastructure development trends.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is a mid-to-senior level Design Manager position. It requires significant experience in managing complex, multi-disciplinary engineering projects within the T&D sector. The responsibilities extend beyond pure design to include project management, client relations, business development support, and team leadership, indicating a critical role in project execution and operational success.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will report to senior leadership within the T&D Engineering team, likely a Director or Senior Project Manager. They will, in turn, lead project teams and work closely with Discipline Leads, Project Managers, and Directors. Collaboration with global Enterprise Capability offices suggests a complex, cross-functional reporting and coordination dynamic.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct impact on AECOM's revenue and client satisfaction by ensuring the successful, timely, and cost-effective delivery of critical T&D infrastructure projects. Effective design management minimizes project risks, enhances client relationships, and contributes to AECOM's reputation as a trusted infrastructure consulting firm. The role also influences operational efficiency through design optimization and cost-saving initiatives.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Progression: Advancement to Senior Design Manager, Program Manager, or Director roles, overseeing larger and more complex projects or portfolios.

• Technical Specialization: Deepening expertise in specific areas of T&D engineering or pursuing further technical certifications.

• Business Development: Developing stronger skills in client engagement, proposal management, and securing new contracts.

• Global Mobility: Opportunities to work on international projects or relocate to other AECOM offices.

• Mentorship Development: Growing leadership capabilities by mentoring junior engineers and team members.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for a Design Manager at AECOM is clear, moving towards greater project and program responsibility, client-facing roles, and leadership. The emphasis on project delivery and client management positions this role as a key contributor to the company's operational success and revenue generation.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: AECOM operates a hybrid work model. This implies a mix of working from a company office and remotely. The specific Birmingham office (Colmore Plaza) will offer a professional, collaborative workspace equipped for engineering and project management activities.

Office Location(s): The primary location is Birmingham, UK (Colmore Plaza). The role also involves overseeing projects across the UK & Ireland, suggesting potential for travel to client sites or other AECOM offices as needed.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The hybrid model encourages collaboration through scheduled office days, team meetings, and project workshops, fostering knowledge sharing and team cohesion.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to industry-standard engineering design software, project management platforms, communication tools, and AECOM's internal digital systems will be available.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities to interact with a diverse team of engineers, project managers, and specialists, both within the T&D group and across other business lines.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is likely 40 hours per week, with the flexibility offered by the hybrid model allowing for adjustments to accommodate project deadlines and personal needs, within operational requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work model is a key feature, offering flexibility. Candidates should understand that while remote work is possible, regular in-office presence will be required for collaboration and team integration, especially for critical project phases and client interactions.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or recruitment team will review applications to assess basic qualifications and experience.

• Hiring Manager Interview: Discussion focused on technical expertise, project management experience, leadership style, and understanding of T&D projects. Be prepared to discuss your experience managing multi-disciplinary teams and complex projects.

• Technical/Panel Interview: Further assessment of technical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and understanding of design management processes. This may involve a technical challenge or case study presentation.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader, focusing on cultural fit, strategic thinking, and alignment with AECOM's values and business objectives.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Relevant Projects: Select 2-3 key projects that best showcase your experience in managing multi-disciplinary T&D design projects, highlighting complexity, scale, and successful outcomes.

• Structure Case Studies: For each project, clearly outline the challenge, your role and responsibilities, the processes you implemented (design management, risk mitigation, stakeholder communication), the solutions developed, and the quantifiable results (e.g., cost savings, schedule adherence, safety improvements).

• Highlight Operational Impact: Emphasize how your management of design processes contributed to project success, client satisfaction, and AECOM's operational efficiency.

• Demonstrate Technical Depth: Be ready to discuss specific technical aspects of T&D design relevant to the projects presented.

• Prepare for Q&A: Anticipate questions about your decision-making process, conflict resolution, and how you manage competing priorities.

Challenge Preparation:

• Process Optimization Scenario: You might be presented with a hypothetical T&D design project scenario and asked to outline your management plan, risk assessment, and approach to ensuring quality and efficiency.

• Stakeholder Management Problem: You could be given a situation involving conflicting stakeholder interests or communication breakdowns and asked how you would resolve it.

• Technical Design Review: A simplified design challenge or a review of a sample deliverable might be used to assess your technical judgment and quality assurance approach.

• Presentation Skills: Practice articulating complex technical and managerial concepts clearly and concisely, focusing on impact and results.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process at a large firm like AECOM is typically structured. Candidates should prepare to demonstrate not only technical competence but also strong project management, leadership, and communication skills, backed by concrete examples from their portfolio.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

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

• Design Software: Familiarity with CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, MicroStation) and potentially BIM (Building Information Modeling) tools, though the primary focus is management rather than direct design.

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

• Document Management Systems: Experience with systems for managing project documentation and deliverables.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Reporting Tools: Ability to generate and interpret project progress reports, financial statements, and performance metrics.

• Data Analysis: Familiarity with analyzing project data to identify trends, risks, and opportunities for optimization.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM (Customer Relationship Management): While not a sales role, understanding CRM principles for client management and business development support is beneficial.

• Automation Tools: Awareness of how automation can be applied in design workflows or project reporting to improve efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the role is managerial, a strong understanding of the tools used in engineering design and project management is essential for effective oversight and collaboration with technical teams. Familiarity with AECOM's likely enterprise-level software stack would be a significant advantage.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity and Ethics: Upholding AECOM's Code of Conduct and ethical standards in all dealings.

• Collaboration and Teamwork: Fostering a supportive environment where diverse teams work together effectively towards common goals.

• Innovation and Digitalisation: Embracing new technologies and digital solutions to drive efficiency and deliver better outcomes.

• Sustainability and ESG: Commitment to environmental, social, and governance principles in project design and delivery.

• Safety First: Prioritizing safety in all aspects of work, particularly through a "Safety by Design" culture.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: AECOM promotes a culture where different disciplines and business lines collaborate closely to deliver integrated solutions. This role requires seamless interaction with technical leads, project managers, and global teams.

• Constructive Feedback: Encouraging an environment where feedback is shared openly and constructively to drive continuous improvement in processes and technical execution.

• Knowledge Sharing: Valuing the sharing of best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise across teams and projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's emphasis on integrity, collaboration, and sustainability aligns with industry best practices. Operations professionals in this environment are expected to be team players who can drive efficiency while upholding high ethical and quality standards.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Complex Multi-Disciplinary Projects: Coordinating diverse engineering teams with varying specializations and priorities can be challenging. Mitigation involves clear communication protocols, integrated planning, and strong leadership.

• Balancing Project Demands with Client Expectations: Meeting tight deadlines and budget constraints while ensuring high-quality deliverables and client satisfaction requires robust project management and negotiation skills.

• Navigating Regulatory and Permitting Processes: Understanding and managing complex permitting and consenting procedures across different regions can be a significant hurdle.

• Staying Abreast of Technological Advancements: The T&D sector is rapidly evolving; continuous learning is crucial to maintain expertise in new design methodologies, digital tools, and sustainable practices.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Formal training in advanced project management techniques, risk management, and contract administration.

• Industry Conferences and Certifications: Opportunities to attend industry events, gain certifications (e.g., PMP, specialized engineering certifications), and network with peers.

• Mentorship and Leadership Development: Access to mentorship programs and leadership training designed to build future leaders within AECOM.

• Exposure to Large-Scale Projects: Working on flagship projects like the Great Grid Partnership offers unparalleled learning opportunities and career-defining experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant opportunities for professional growth by tackling complex infrastructure challenges. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate their adaptability and commitment to continuous learning in a dynamic industry.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

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

• "How do you ensure adherence to 'Safety by Design' principles and other SHEQ standards throughout a project lifecycle?" (Prepare to discuss specific processes and your commitment to safety.)

• "How do you foster collaboration and effective communication among diverse engineering disciplines and with clients?" (Highlight your communication strategies and experience with stakeholder management.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about AECOM's work in the Transmission & Distribution sector, and how do your skills align with our goals, particularly regarding projects like the Great Grid Partnership?" (Research AECOM's recent T&D projects and strategic initiatives.)

• "How do you embody AECOM's values of integrity, collaboration, and sustainability in your work?" (Provide specific examples of how you apply these values.)

• "How do you approach identifying opportunities for design optimization and cost efficiencies for clients and AECOM?" (Be ready to discuss your analytical and innovative thinking.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Concise Storytelling: For each portfolio example, focus on the "why," "what," and "so what." Clearly articulate the project's objective, your specific role and actions, and the tangible results achieved.

• Quantify Impact: Use metrics whenever possible (e.g., percentage cost savings, schedule improvement, reduction in design errors, number of stakeholders managed).

• Demonstrate Process: Walk through your management processes for scope, schedule, budget, risk, quality, and stakeholder engagement.

• Showcase Leadership: Highlight instances where you led teams, resolved conflicts, and mentored junior staff.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be looking for a candidate who not only possesses strong technical knowledge but also demonstrates effective leadership, strategic thinking, and a clear understanding of project management and operational excellence within the infrastructure consulting context.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Tailor your Resume: Highlight your experience in Transmission & Distribution, multi-disciplinary project management, client relationship management, and any relevant certifications. Use keywords from the job description such as "Design Manager," "Transmission & Distribution," "Project Management," "SHEQ," and "Stakeholder Management."

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate 2-3 strong case studies showcasing your most impactful T&D design management projects. Be ready to articulate your role, the challenges, the processes you implemented, and the quantifiable results.

• Research AECOM: Familiarize yourself with AECOM's recent projects, especially in the Energy and T&D sectors, and understand their company values and strategic objectives.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare for behavioral and situational questions using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result), focusing on your management style, problem-solving abilities, and leadership experience.

⚠️ 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.