Design Manager - Transmission & Distribution

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager - Transmission & Distribution

Company: AECOM

Location: Birmingham, United Kingdom (Hybrid)

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Engineering Management / Operations

Date Posted: August 06, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (Implied by responsibilities and "5-10" years AI estimate)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

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

• 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 stringent safety, health, environmental, sustainability, and quality (SHEQ) standards throughout the project lifecycle.

• Foster a "Safety by Design" culture, integrating best practices for safety, constructability, and asset operability within all engineering deliverables.

• Manage client relationships, support business development initiatives, and contribute to proposal preparation and contract negotiations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The AI estimate of 5-10 years of experience aligns with the responsibilities of managing complex, multi-disciplinary projects and client-facing duties. This role requires a blend of technical engineering expertise and strong project/people management capabilities, typical of a Design Manager position. The focus on T&D and specific large-scale projects like the UK National Grid's Great Grid Partnership indicates a need for experience in high-stakes, critical infrastructure environments.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Oversee the entire lifecycle of engineering design projects, from initial concept and FEED (Front-End Engineering Design) through environmental assessments, permitting, consenting, planning, cost estimation, and detailed engineering.

• Manage project teams, including resource allocation and subcontractor coordination, leveraging global Enterprise Capability offices as needed.

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

• Conduct thorough 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 technical guidance, mentorship, and professional development support to team members, fostering a culture of continuous learning and skill enhancement.

• Lead project and client meetings, providing regular updates on progress, costs, schedules, procurement, safety, environmental concerns, and design challenges.

• Support the preparation of proposals, lead presentations to potential clients, and actively participate in contract negotiations to secure new business opportunities.

• Proactively identify and pursue new project opportunities, defining scope, schedule, budget, and exclusions for potential engagements.

• Maintain high technical standards by staying informed on industry best practices and client standards, ensuring their practical application in project delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: The depth of responsibilities suggests a need for a candidate who can not only manage technical design but also navigate complex project delivery frameworks, client expectations, and team dynamics. The mention of specific project types like the UK National Grid's Great Grid Partnership implies a requirement for understanding and managing large-scale, high-impact infrastructure projects.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Degree qualified in Electrical or Power Systems Engineering (or equivalent demonstrable experience).

Experience: Demonstrated experience in managing complex, multi-discipline Transmission & Distribution (T&D) or large infrastructure design projects, with a focus on meeting delivery requirements for UK & Ireland clients. Proven experience in client relationship management and business development skills.

Required Skills:

• Transmission & Distribution (T&D) Engineering: In-depth knowledge and practical application of T&D systems, including substations, cabling, overhead lines, and associated infrastructure.

• Project Management: Proven ability to manage the full project lifecycle, including scope, schedule, budget, resources, and risk for multi-disciplinary engineering projects.

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

• Safety & Quality Management: Strong understanding and implementation of "Safety by Design" principles, SHEQ standards, and quality assurance processes.

• Client Relationship Management: Demonstrated success in building and maintaining strong relationships with clients, understanding their needs, and driving satisfaction.

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

• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills for effective stakeholder engagement, reporting, and presentation.

Preferred Skills:

• National Grid & TSO Experience: Working experience with the UK National Grid and other Transmission System Operators (TSOs) is highly advantageous.

• Renewables Integration: Experience with renewable energy integration projects within T&D networks.

• Chartered Status: Chartered Engineer status (e.g., Chartered Engineer - CEng) or equivalent professional qualifications (e.g., LCDAE/CDAE) are advantageous.

• Business Development: Proven track record in identifying and pursuing new business opportunities and contributing to proposal development.

• Power Systems Analysis: Familiarity with power systems analysis tools and methodologies.

• SCADA & HVDC Systems: Knowledge of SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) and HVDC (High Voltage Direct Current) systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "5-10" AI experience level estimate suggests this role is for a seasoned professional. The "degree qualified" requirement is standard, but the emphasis on "demonstrated experience" in managing complex, multi-discipline projects and client-facing roles highlights the practical expertise needed. The preferred skills, particularly National Grid experience, point towards a specialized understanding of the UK's energy infrastructure landscape.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Management Case Studies: Showcase successful management of complex, multi-disciplinary engineering design projects from initiation to completion, highlighting challenges overcome, solutions implemented, and final outcomes.

• Design Oversight Examples: Provide examples of engineering deliverables reviewed and approved, demonstrating your ability to ensure technical integrity, compliance with standards, and quality assurance.

• "Safety by Design" Implementation: Illustrate how you have embedded "Safety by Design" principles into project workflows and deliverables, detailing specific initiatives and their impact on safety and constructability.

• Client Engagement & Business Development Successes: Document instances where you have effectively managed client relationships, secured new business, or contributed significantly to proposal development and contract negotiations.

Process Documentation:

• Project Lifecycle Management: Demonstrate understanding of and experience with managing all phases of the design project lifecycle, including concept, FEED, environmental assessments, permitting, consenting, planning, cost estimation, and detailed engineering.

• Workflow Optimization: Provide examples of how you have identified and implemented process improvements to enhance design efficiency, reduce costs, and improve project delivery timelines.

• Quality Assurance & Control: Detail your approach to establishing and maintaining robust quality assurance and control processes for engineering design deliverables, including review and checking procedures.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role, a portfolio should emphasize leadership, strategic oversight, and the ability to manage complex processes and teams. Case studies should focus on the management aspect – how the candidate orchestrated resources, mitigated risks, ensured quality, and delivered successful outcomes, rather than purely technical design details. Demonstrating a systematic approach to project management and design governance is crucial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on AECOM's typical compensation for Design Manager roles in the UK, and considering the complexity and strategic importance of this position within the T&D sector, an estimated salary range for this role in Birmingham, UK, would be between £60,000 - £85,000 per annum. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for experienced engineering managers in large infrastructure consulting firms, accounting for the hybrid work model and the specific responsibilities outlined.

Benefits:

• Career Development Opportunities: Access to structured career progression pathways and professional development programs.

• Flexible Hybrid Working Model: Offers a balance between remote work and in-office collaboration, supporting work-life integration.

• Technical Practice Networks: Opportunities to engage with specialized technical communities within AECOM, fostering knowledge sharing and innovation.

• AECOM University: Access to a comprehensive online learning platform for continuous skill enhancement and training.

• Volunteering Days: Paid time off to participate in community and environmental initiatives, reflecting AECOM's commitment to social responsibility.

• Comprehensive Health and Well-being Programs: Support for employee health and well-being, tailored to individual needs.

• Pension Scheme: Competitive pension contributions and schemes.

• Life Assurance: Provided life insurance coverage.

Working Hours: Typically 40 hours per week, with flexibility offered through the hybrid working model, allowing for a balanced approach to work and personal life.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on general market data for similar roles in the UK and AECOM's known compensation practices for mid-to-senior level engineering management positions. Specific salary will depend on the candidate's experience, qualifications, and the exact scope of responsibilities. The listed benefits are directly extracted from the provided text and are standard for large multinational corporations.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Infrastructure Consulting & Engineering. AECOM operates globally, providing a wide range of professional services across transportation, buildings, water, new energy, and the environment. Their work directly impacts communities by improving infrastructure, ensuring access to resources, and shaping urban landscapes.

Company Size: Fortune 500 firm with over 50,000 employees globally. This large scale provides access to extensive resources, diverse projects, and global career opportunities, but may also mean navigating larger organizational structures.

Founded: AECOM was founded in 1910, indicating a long-standing history and deep expertise in the engineering and infrastructure sector. This longevity suggests stability and a proven track record in delivering complex projects.

Team Structure:

• The Transmission & Distribution (T&D) Engineering team is a specialized unit within AECOM's Energy business line. It comprises various discipline leads and project managers.

• This role will likely report to a Director or Senior Manager within the T&D business, with direct oversight of project teams and collaboration with Discipline Leads.

• Cross-functional collaboration is key, involving coordination with Discipline Leads, Project Managers, global Enterprise Capability offices, and potentially client-side project teams. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: AECOM emphasizes leveraging technical and digital expertise to solve complex challenges, implying a data-driven approach to design and project management.

• Process Optimization: The company actively seeks opportunities for design optimization and cost efficiencies, suggesting a culture that values continuous improvement and innovative problem-solving.

• "Safety by Design" Culture: AECOM prioritizes safety, integrating it into the core of their design processes and project execution.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's global presence and extensive project portfolio, particularly in critical infrastructure like energy, suggest a demanding yet rewarding work environment. The company's emphasis on "delivering a better world" and "solving the world's most complex challenges" points to a mission-driven culture. The hybrid work model reflects a modern approach to employee well-being and work-life balance.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a mid-to-senior level within the engineering and project management hierarchy. It requires significant technical expertise in T&D engineering combined with proven project leadership and management capabilities. The responsibilities involve overseeing entire project lifecycles and managing multiple disciplines, indicating a substantial level of autonomy and responsibility.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will likely report to a senior leader within the Energy business line, such as a Director or Head of T&D Engineering. They will manage project teams directly and collaborate with Discipline Leads and Project Managers across various functions and potentially global locations.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager has a direct and significant impact on AECOM's operational success and client satisfaction. By ensuring efficient, safe, and high-quality design delivery for critical infrastructure projects like those for National Grid, they contribute directly to revenue generation, client retention, and AECOM's reputation as a trusted infrastructure consulting firm. Their work underpins the successful execution of major national projects, influencing energy security and sustainability goals.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to progress into more senior management roles, such as Programme Director or Business Unit Leader, overseeing larger portfolios of work and P&L responsibility.

• Technical Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific areas of T&D engineering or project management through specialized projects and continuous learning.

• Global Mobility: As part of a global firm, there are opportunities to work on international projects or relocate to other AECOM offices worldwide.

• Mentorship & Development: AECOM's commitment to professional development suggests opportunities for mentorship from senior leaders and participation in advanced training programs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "5-10" year AI experience estimate strongly suggests this is not an entry-level or junior role. The scope of managing multi-disciplinary projects and client relationships positions it as a critical mid-to-senior leadership opportunity with clear pathways for further career progression within AECOM's extensive operations.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid work model, combining remote work with in-office collaboration. AECOM's Birmingham office (Colmore Plaza) is a modern professional environment. The hybrid approach aims to provide flexibility while maintaining team cohesion and access to resources.

Office Location(s):

• Primary: Birmingham, UK (Colmore Plaza). This location is a central business hub, offering good accessibility for local employees.

• Secondary Mentioned: London, UK. While Birmingham is the primary location, the mention of London and the possibility of building project teams from global "Enterprise Capability offices" indicates potential for broader project engagement and collaboration across different AECOM sites.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The hybrid model encourages collaborative work sessions in the office, facilitating team brainstorming, problem-solving, and knowledge sharing among engineers and project managers.

• Access to Operations Tools: Employees are expected to have access to AECOM's standard suite of engineering design software, project management tools, and communication platforms, enabling seamless execution of duties both remotely and in the office.

• Cross-functional Interaction: The role involves regular interaction with various engineering disciplines, project managers, and client representatives, fostering a dynamic and interactive work setting.

Work Schedule: Standard full-time hours (approximately 40 hours/week) with the flexibility afforded by the hybrid model. This allows for structured workdays while accommodating personal needs, crucial for managing demanding project schedules and deadlines effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Hybrid" work arrangement is clearly stated. The specific office location in Birmingham, Colmore Plaza, provides a concrete detail for candidates. The emphasis on collaboration within a hybrid setup is typical for modern professional services firms aiming to balance flexibility with team synergy.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Application review focusing on qualifications, experience in T&D/infrastructure design, and project management track record.

• Technical Interview: Assessment of engineering knowledge, understanding of T&D systems, and problem-solving skills related to design challenges. This may involve discussing specific technical scenarios or past projects.

• Management & Leadership Interview: Evaluation of project management capabilities, leadership style, experience managing multi-disciplinary teams, client relationship skills, and business development acumen.

• Case Study/Portfolio Presentation: Candidates may be asked to present a detailed case study from their portfolio showcasing a complex multi-disciplinary project they managed, focusing on design oversight, problem-solving, SHEQ compliance, and client outcomes.

• Cultural Fit & Values Assessment: Discussion to ensure alignment with AECOM's values, "Safety by Design" culture, and collaborative work environment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Project Management Excellence: Focus on case studies that demonstrate your ability to manage scope, schedule, budget, risks, and resources for complex T&D projects. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., cost savings, schedule improvements).

• Showcase "Safety by Design" Implementation: Detail specific instances where you integrated safety considerations into the design process from the outset, explaining the methodologies and the positive impact on project safety and constructability.

• Demonstrate Client Engagement: Include examples of successful client relationship management, problem resolution, and contributions to business development or proposal wins.

• Structure for Clarity: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or by skill demonstrated (e.g., Project Management, Design Oversight, Client Relations). Ensure clear, concise descriptions and visually appealing presentations of key deliverables.

Challenge Preparation:

• Technical Scenarios: Be prepared to discuss common T&D design challenges, such as grid integration of renewables, substation upgrades, or managing complex cable routes, and how you would approach them technically and managerially.

• Project Management Scenarios: Anticipate questions about managing difficult stakeholders, resolving inter-disciplinary conflicts, handling scope creep, or mitigating project risks.

• "Safety by Design" Application: Prepare to articulate your approach to embedding safety into all stages of the design process and how you would foster this culture within a team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a Design Manager role at a firm like AECOM will invariably involve a rigorous assessment of both technical and managerial competencies. The portfolio review is crucial for demonstrating practical experience and the ability to manage complex engineering operations. Emphasis on "Safety by Design" and client management is a strong indicator of AECOM's priorities.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: AECOM likely utilizes industry-standard project management platforms (e.g., Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Asana, Monday.com) for scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking.

• CAD/Design Software: Familiarity with CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software like AutoCAD, MicroStation, or Bentley Systems products is essential for reviewing engineering drawings and understanding design outputs.

• BIM (Building Information Modeling): Experience with BIM tools and workflows for integrated design and collaboration on complex infrastructure projects.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Proficiency in using data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, Power BI, Tableau) to interpret project performance data, identify trends, and generate reports for stakeholders.

• Reporting Dashboards: Experience in creating and utilizing dashboards to monitor key project metrics such as schedule adherence, budget status, safety incidents, and quality compliance.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: While not a direct sales role, understanding how CRM data (e.g., client interactions, project history) informs business development and client management is beneficial.

• Collaboration Platforms: Proficiency with collaboration tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar platforms for team communication, document sharing, and virtual meetings.

• Document Management Systems: Experience with enterprise-level document management systems for organizing and controlling project documentation.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific tools are not listed, the nature of T&D engineering and project management at a firm like AECOM implies a reliance on sophisticated design, project management, and collaboration software. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their proficiency with commonly used tools in these domains.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: AECOM strongly emphasizes a "Safety by Design" culture, prioritizing the safety of employees, clients, and the public in all engineering and project management activities.

• Integrity & Ethics: Adherence to ethical standards and AECOM's Code of Conduct is paramount, ensuring trustworthy and responsible business practices.

• Excellence & Innovation: A drive for technical excellence, continuous improvement, and innovative solutions to complex infrastructure challenges.

• Collaboration & Inclusion: Fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment where collaboration, respect, and individual contributions are valued.

• Client Focus: A commitment to understanding and meeting client needs, delivering value, and building long-term partnerships.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Encourages seamless collaboration between different engineering disciplines, project management teams, and global support functions to deliver integrated solutions.

• Open Communication: Promotes open dialogue, constructive feedback, and transparent communication among team members and with clients.

• Knowledge Sharing: Supports a culture of sharing expertise and best practices through technical networks, training, and collaborative platforms to drive collective learning and improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's stated values, particularly "Safety by Design" and "Integrity," are central to their operations. The emphasis on collaboration and inclusion is also a key cultural indicator for potential employees seeking a supportive and dynamic work environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Complex Multi-disciplinary Projects: Coordinating diverse engineering teams, ensuring seamless integration of designs, and mitigating inter-disciplinary conflicts.

• Navigating Regulatory & Client Requirements: Adhering to stringent industry standards, client-specific protocols, and evolving regulatory landscapes within the T&D sector.

• Driving "Safety by Design" Adoption: Continuously reinforcing and implementing safety-first principles across all project phases and team members.

• Balancing Cost, Schedule, and Quality: Optimizing project delivery to meet budgetary constraints and timelines without compromising technical quality or safety standards.

• Adapting to Technological Advancements: Staying abreast of and integrating new technologies and digital tools in design and project management to enhance efficiency and innovation.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Access to specialized training programs focused on the latest T&D technologies, power systems analysis, and engineering best practices.

• Project Management Certifications: Support for obtaining or maintaining professional certifications such as PMP (Project Management Professional) or equivalent.

• Leadership Development Programs: Opportunities to participate in leadership training and development initiatives to hone management and strategic planning skills.

• Industry Conferences & Seminars: Encouragement to attend relevant industry events to network, learn about emerging trends, and gain insights from peers.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for senior design management roles in critical infrastructure. AECOM's commitment to learning and development, including specific mentions of AECOM University and technical practice networks, highlights a strong focus on employee growth and skill enhancement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Project Management Philosophy: "Describe your approach to managing complex, multi-disciplinary engineering design projects from concept to completion. How do you ensure alignment across different teams and stakeholders?" (Focus on your lifecycle management, risk mitigation, and communication strategies).

• "Safety by Design" Implementation: "How do you embed 'Safety by Design' principles into engineering workflows? Provide an example of a time you identified and addressed a significant safety risk during the design phase." (Prepare specific examples and methodologies).

• Client Management & Business Development: "Describe a challenging client situation you managed. How did you resolve it, and what was the outcome? How do you identify and pursue new business opportunities within your domain?" (Highlight your client relationship skills and proactive business development approach).

Company & Culture Questions:

• AECOM's Mission: "AECOM's purpose is to 'deliver a better world.' How does your work as a Design Manager contribute to this purpose?" (Connect your role and responsibilities to AECOM's broader mission and impact).

• Team Collaboration: "Describe your ideal team collaboration style. How do you foster a positive and productive working environment, especially within a hybrid model?" (Showcase your leadership and interpersonal skills).

• Innovation & Efficiency: "How do you identify opportunities for design optimization and cost efficiencies? Can you share an example of a successful optimization you implemented?" (Demonstrate your strategic thinking and focus on value creation).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each case study, clearly outline the project context, your role and responsibilities, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented (especially design and management strategies), and the quantifiable results (e.g., schedule, cost, safety, quality improvements).

• Emphasize Management & Leadership: While technical details are important, focus on your leadership in managing teams, stakeholders, risks, and processes. Highlight how you orchestrated the project for success.

• Visual Aids: Use clear visuals (diagrams, charts, photos if permissible) to illustrate complex designs, project timelines, or performance metrics.

• Conciseness & Clarity: Be prepared to present your key achievements and insights concisely, allowing time for questions and deeper discussion.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation for this role should focus on demonstrating a strong blend of technical acumen, robust project management skills, and a proactive approach to safety and client relations. Case studies are critical for substantiating claims about experience and impact.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the AECOM jobs portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and any supporting documents to highlight your experience in Transmission & Distribution engineering design management, multi-disciplinary project leadership, and client engagement. Prepare 2-3 detailed case studies that exemplify your most impactful projects, focusing on management strategies, "Safety by Design" implementation, and successful delivery outcomes.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly articulates your degree qualifications, years of relevant experience, and specific achievements in managing complex infrastructure projects. Strategically use keywords from the job description, such as "Transmission & Distribution," "Design Management," "Project Management," "Safety by Design," and "Multi-disciplinary."

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions. Be ready to discuss your project management philosophy, approach to safety, and client relationship strategies. Prepare questions for the interviewer that demonstrate your interest in AECOM and the role.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with AECOM's mission, values, recent projects (especially in the energy sector), and their commitment to sustainability and "Safety by Design." Understand their approach to hybrid work and career development.

⚠️ 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.