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 Management (Infrastructure)

Date Posted: 2026-08-06

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

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage complex, multi-disciplinary engineering design projects within the Transmission & Distribution (T&D) sector, focusing on delivering high-quality outcomes for UK & Ireland clients.

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

• Drive the full lifecycle of design projects from concept through detailed engineering, ensuring adherence to safety, health, environmental, sustainability, and quality standards.

• Foster a strong "Safety by Design" culture and maintain high technical standards by staying abreast of industry best practices and client-specific requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role sits at the intersection of engineering project execution and operational management. While not a traditional Revenue or Sales Operations role, it requires robust project management, stakeholder coordination, process adherence, and a focus on efficient delivery, which are core competencies in operations. The emphasis on "design management" implies a strong focus on process, quality control, and project lifecycle efficiency.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Oversee engineering design projects across the UK & Ireland, collaborating with Discipline Leads, Project Managers, and Directors, and leveraging global Enterprise Capability offices for specialized support.

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

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

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

• Manage project components by allocating resources effectively, coordinating subcontractors, ensuring design integrity, and incorporating client feedback throughout the project lifecycle.

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

• Promote and embed a "Safety by Design" ethos, ensuring high technical standards and continuous improvement in safety, constructability, and asset operability through the application of industry best practices.

• Perform internal reviews and quality checks on engineering deliverables, including complex designs, calculations, 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.

• Represent AECOM professionally and ethically, adhering to the company's Code of Conduct and maintaining strong client relationships.

• Provide mentorship, technical guidance, and professional development support to engineering team members, fostering a collaborative and growth-oriented environment.

• Pursue new business opportunities by defining project scope, schedule, budget, and exclusions, contributing to AECOM's growth in the T&D sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a need for strong leadership in a technical environment, akin to operations leadership where process efficiency and quality are paramount. Responsibilities like "managing project phases," "ensuring adherence to standards," and "identifying opportunities for optimization" directly map to operational objectives.

🎓 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 infrastructure design projects, particularly within Transmission & Distribution, renewables, or large-scale 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) on their projects is highly advantageous.

• Significant experience in managing the full project lifecycle from concept through to detailed design. Required Skills:

• Transmission & Distribution (T&D) Engineering: Deep understanding of T&D systems, components, and project lifecycles.

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

• Design Management: Expertise in overseeing engineering design processes, ensuring quality, compliance, and technical integrity.

• Stakeholder Management: Strong capability in managing client relationships, internal teams, and external stakeholders, including subcontractors and regulatory bodies.

• Technical Leadership: Ability to guide and mentor engineering teams, review technical deliverables, and maintain high technical standards.

• Safety & Quality Assurance: Commitment to "Safety by Design" principles and robust quality assurance practices.

• Business Development: Skills in proposal preparation, client presentations, and contributing to new business opportunities.

• Contract Negotiation: Experience participating in contract discussions and negotiations.

• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication for effective reporting, presentations, and team collaboration.

Preferred Skills:

• Chartered Engineer status (e.g., CEng) or equivalent professional registration.

• Membership in relevant professional bodies (e.g., IET).

• Experience with specific AECOM or client design management systems and processes.

• Knowledge of environmental assessments, permitting, and consenting processes.

• Familiarity with advanced power systems analysis tools and techniques.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of technical engineering expertise and strong project and people management skills, which are critical for overseeing operations within a design context. The "advantageous" experience with National Grid and TSOs points to a need for understanding specific industry operational frameworks.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrated experience in managing complex engineering projects, showcasing a structured approach to design lifecycle management.

• Examples of successful project delivery, highlighting adherence to timelines, budgets, and quality standards.

• Evidence of implementing "Safety by Design" principles and robust quality assurance processes within projects.

• Case studies demonstrating effective stakeholder management and client relationship development.

• Portfolio items should illustrate the ability to manage multi-disciplinary teams and coordinate various engineering scopes. Process Documentation:

• Examples of process flows or documentation related to engineering design, from concept to detailed design.

• Documentation showcasing how project progress, costs, schedules, and risks were tracked and reported.

• Evidence of implementing or improving design management processes to enhance efficiency, safety, and quality.

• Documentation related to the identification and implementation of design optimization and cost efficiencies.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role, the "portfolio" would primarily consist of project case studies and documentation that demonstrate their management approach, process adherence, and ability to deliver complex engineering outcomes. This aligns with operations' need to showcase process ownership and improvement.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• The salary for this role is not explicitly stated. However, based on industry benchmarks for a Design Manager with 5-10 years of experience in the UK engineering sector, particularly with a major consultancy like AECOM and experience in T&D, a competitive salary range can be estimated. For Birmingham, UK, this would typically fall between £55,000 and £75,000 per annum, depending on the specific experience, qualifications, and the exact scope of responsibilities assumed. Benefits:

• Career Development Opportunities: Access to ongoing training and professional development pathways.

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

• Technical Practice Networks: Opportunities to connect with and learn from subject matter experts across AECOM globally.

• AECOM University: Access to a comprehensive learning platform for skill enhancement and career growth.

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

• Comprehensive Health & Well-being Programs: Designed to support employees' physical and mental health.

• Pension Scheme: Competitive retirement savings plan.

• Life Assurance: Financial protection for dependents.

Working Hours:

• Typically 40 hours per week, with a hybrid working model that allows for flexibility in structuring workdays.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimation is based on publicly available data for similar roles in Birmingham, UK, considering the "5-10 years" experience level and the seniority implied by "Design Manager" at a large firm like AECOM. The benefits are drawn directly from the provided text and are typical for large engineering consultancies.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Infrastructure Consulting (Engineering, Design, Program Management)

Company Size: AECOM is a global firm with over 50,000 employees worldwide, making it a large, established player in the infrastructure sector.

Founded: AECOM has a long history, evolving through acquisitions and organic growth, with its current form tracing back to significant milestones in the 20th century. This longevity suggests stability and a deep well of expertise.

Team Structure:

• The Transmission & Distribution (T&D) Engineering team is part of AECOM's broader Energy business line.

• This role operates within a multi-disciplinary, innovative team environment, requiring collaboration with various engineering disciplines (substation primary, cabling, protection & control, civils, overhead lines, environmental).

• The Design Manager will work closely with Discipline Leads, Project Managers, and Directors, and will also engage with global Enterprise Capability offices, indicating a matrixed or federated team structure. Methodology:

• AECOM emphasizes a "better world" through its infrastructure projects, focusing on delivering sustainable legacies and solving complex global challenges.

• The T&D team employs advanced methodologies in Power Systems Analysis, Cabling, Substations, System Balancing, Protection Systems, SCADA, Communications, Converter Station Design, and HVDC Systems.

• A strong emphasis is placed on "Safety by Design," ensuring that safety, health, environmental, and sustainability standards are integrated from the initial concept stages.

• The company utilizes a global network for project execution, suggesting a robust framework for resource allocation and project delivery across different regions.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture at AECOM is described as purpose-driven ("delivering a better world"), global, and focused on expertise. The T&D team's structure implies a collaborative, matrixed environment where cross-functional expertise is key, similar to how operations teams function across different departments.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior-level position within the engineering and project delivery function, akin to an Operations Manager or Senior Project Manager in other industries. It requires significant technical depth combined with strong leadership and management capabilities. The scope involves managing complex projects and teams, influencing project outcomes, and contributing to business development.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will report to senior leadership within the T&D business, likely a Director or Senior Manager. They will also work closely with Project Managers and Discipline Leads, forming part of a project leadership team. Mentorship responsibilities suggest they will also guide and develop junior engineers.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's impact is directly tied to the successful, efficient, and safe delivery of critical infrastructure projects for clients like National Grid. This involves ensuring projects meet technical specifications, timelines, and budget constraints, thereby contributing to AECOM's revenue, client satisfaction, and reputation in the Energy sector. Their focus on design optimization and cost efficiencies directly impacts project profitability and client value.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise within specific T&D domains (e.g., HVDC, advanced substation design) or become a recognized subject matter expert.

• Project Leadership: Progress to managing larger, more complex, or strategically significant programs of work, potentially with international scope.

• Management Progression: Transition into broader management roles, such as a Programme Director or Head of a specific engineering discipline, with increased responsibility for P&L, strategy, and team development.

• Business Development: Develop stronger business development capabilities, leading to roles focused on client acquisition and strategic account management.

• Mentorship & Training: Take on more formal roles in training and mentoring, contributing to AECOM's internal talent development.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for growth within a large, established engineering firm. The progression from managing individual projects to overseeing programs or expanding business development responsibilities mirrors career trajectories seen in operational leadership roles, focusing on scaling impact and strategic contribution.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This role is designated as "Hybrid," indicating a blend of remote work and office-based presence. The specific office location mentioned is "Colmore Plaza, Birmingham."

Office Location(s): The primary office location is Colmore Plaza in Birmingham, UK. This is a central business district location, likely offering good transport links and amenities. The role also involves overseeing projects across the UK & Ireland, implying potential travel to client sites or other AECOM offices as needed.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The hybrid model suggests a need for effective collaboration in both in-person meetings (e.g., design reviews, client workshops) and virtual settings. The presence of Discipline Leads and Project Managers within the T&D team fosters a collaborative atmosphere.

• Operations Tools & Technology: While not explicitly detailed, a Design Manager would typically utilize project management software, design collaboration platforms, document management systems, and potentially specialized engineering software for analysis and modeling. AECOM's global nature suggests access to robust digital tools.

• Team Interaction: Regular interaction with internal engineering teams, project management staff, and external clients is expected. The hybrid model allows for flexibility in managing these interactions.

Work Schedule: The standard working hours are 40 per week, with the hybrid arrangement providing flexibility in how these hours are structured, balancing focused individual work with collaborative team activities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work environment is a key aspect, requiring adaptability and strong communication skills to maintain productivity and team cohesion. The Birmingham office location places the role within a significant UK business hub.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Application review focusing on qualifications, relevant experience (T&D, multi-disciplinary project management), and alignment with AECOM's values.

• Technical Interview: Discussion with senior engineers or management from the T&D team to assess technical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and understanding of engineering design processes. Expect questions on past projects, technical challenges, and safety/quality approaches.

• Management & Behavioral Interview: Assessment of leadership style, project management capabilities, stakeholder management skills, and cultural fit. Questions will likely focus on "tell me about a time when..." scenarios related to managing difficult projects, teams, or clients.

• Portfolio Review (if applicable): Candidates may be asked to present specific project examples that demonstrate their experience in managing complex designs, ensuring quality, and achieving project objectives. Focus on showcasing process, challenges, solutions, and outcomes.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a Director or senior leader, focusing on strategic fit, business development potential, and overall suitability for the role and AECOM.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio by project, highlighting the scope, your role, key challenges, the processes you implemented (especially for design management, safety, and quality), and the measurable outcomes or impact.

• Focus on Process: For this role, showcase your approach to managing the design lifecycle, risk mitigation, quality assurance, and team coordination. Use diagrams or flowcharts if appropriate to illustrate processes.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use metrics to demonstrate success – e.g., adherence to schedule/budget, cost savings achieved through optimization, reduction in design errors, client satisfaction scores.

• Client-Centricity: Emphasize how your management approach delivered value to the client, especially in relation to their specific requirements and challenges.

• Safety & Quality Emphasis: Clearly articulate your commitment to and implementation of "Safety by Design" and robust quality assurance practices.

Challenge Preparation:

• Case Study: Be prepared for a potential case study exercise, perhaps involving a hypothetical T&D project. You might be asked to outline a project plan, identify key risks, propose a design management approach, or suggest optimization strategies.

• Problem-Solving: Practice articulating how you would approach a common engineering design challenge, such as scope creep, a significant technical issue, or resource constraints. Focus on logical, process-driven solutions.

• Stakeholder Scenarios: Prepare to discuss how you would handle situations involving conflicting stakeholder requirements or communication breakdowns.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely assess both technical engineering acumen and robust project/operations management capabilities. A strong portfolio demonstrating process control, problem-solving, and successful project delivery will be crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Likely proficiency in tools such as Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or AECOM's internal project management platforms for scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking.

• Design Collaboration Platforms: Experience with platforms for document sharing, review, and collaboration (e.g., BIM 360, Aconex, or similar).

• Document Management Systems: Familiarity with systems for organizing, storing, and versioning project documentation and deliverables.

• Engineering Design Software (Awareness): While not necessarily a user, understanding the types of software used by disciplines (e.g., CAD, CAE, Power Systems Analysis tools like PSS/E, PSCAD, ETAP) is beneficial for managing the design process.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Performance Dashboards: Ability to interpret and utilize data from project management systems for progress reporting, cost tracking, and risk analysis.

• Reporting Tools: Proficiency in creating clear and concise project status reports for internal management and clients.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM (for Business Development): Familiarity with CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce) for tracking client interactions and business development opportunities.

• Workflow Automation (Conceptual Understanding): While not directly automating engineering design, an understanding of how workflows can be streamlined through process improvements and digital tools is valuable.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role requires proficiency in project management and collaboration tools. While direct use of specialized engineering software might not be mandatory, awareness of the tools used by engineering disciplines is important for effective management.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Delivering a Better World: A core value driving AECOM's mission, emphasizing sustainable and impactful infrastructure projects.

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

• Safety First: A paramount commitment to "Safety by Design" and ensuring the well-being of employees, clients, and the public.

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

• Collaboration & Inclusion: Fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all voices are heard and valued, promoting teamwork across global teams.

• Client Focus: Building strong client relationships and delivering exceptional value and service.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role necessitates close collaboration with various engineering disciplines, project managers, and directors, requiring effective communication and coordination across different functional areas.

• Global Teamwork: Working with global Enterprise Capability offices means adapting to different time zones, communication styles, and working practices.

• Client Partnership: Building strong, trust-based relationships with clients, involving regular communication, transparency, and responsiveness.

• Mentorship & Knowledge Sharing: A culture that encourages sharing expertise and developing team members, fostering a learning environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "Delivering a Better World" and "Safety by Design" highlights AECOM's commitment to impactful and responsible engineering. The collaborative style, especially across global teams and disciplines, is critical for success in this role, mirroring the cross-functional needs of many operations roles.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Complex Multi-Disciplinary Projects: Coordinating diverse engineering teams with potentially competing priorities and technical requirements.

• Meeting Tight Deadlines & Budgets: Delivering large-scale infrastructure projects within stringent timelines and cost constraints, especially for major clients like National Grid.

• Ensuring "Safety by Design": Embedding and maintaining a robust safety culture throughout the design process, which requires constant vigilance and adherence to standards.

• Navigating Regulatory & Client Standards: Ensuring compliance with a multitude of codes, standards, and specific client requirements (e.g., National Grid's).

• Global Team Coordination: Effectively managing and motivating teams located in different geographical regions and time zones.

• Adapting to Evolving Technologies: Staying current with advancements in T&D technology and digital tools to drive design optimization.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Technical Deep Dive: Opportunities to gain in-depth knowledge of specific T&D technologies and engineering challenges through project work and AECOM's technical networks.

• Advanced Project Management: Developing skills in managing larger, more complex, or strategically critical projects.

• Leadership Development: Formal and informal training in leadership, team management, and strategic decision-making.

• Business Development Skills: Learning to identify, pursue, and secure new project opportunities.

• Industry Exposure: Gaining insights into major infrastructure programs like the UK National Grid's Great Grid Partnership.

• Professional Certifications: Support for pursuing or maintaining professional engineering certifications (e.g., Chartered Engineer).

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical of senior roles in large engineering projects, requiring strong problem-solving and resilience. The growth opportunities are well-defined, offering pathways for both technical and managerial advancement within AECOM's global structure.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to managing a multi-disciplinary engineering design project from concept to completion. What are the key phases and controls you implement?" (Focus on process, risk, quality, and stakeholder management).

• "How do you foster a 'Safety by Design' culture within your project teams? Provide an example." (Highlight leadership, proactive measures, and communication).

• "Tell me about a time you had to manage conflicting priorities or requirements from different stakeholders on a project. How did you resolve it?" (Behavioral question assessing negotiation, communication, and problem-solving skills).

• "How do you ensure design submissions comply with codes, standards, and quality requirements? What is your review process?" (Demonstrate understanding of QA/QC and technical rigor).

• "Describe your experience with cost estimation and budget management for complex engineering projects." (Focus on financial acumen and project control). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about AECOM and our work in the Transmission & Distribution sector?" (Research AECOM's recent projects, values, and strategic goals).

• "How do you align with AECOM's value of 'Delivering a Better World'?" (Connect your past work or aspirations to sustainability and societal impact).

• "How do you approach leading and mentoring engineering teams, especially in a hybrid work environment?" (Discuss your leadership style, communication strategies, and commitment to professional development).

• "What is your understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the UK's energy transition, and how does T&D design play a role?" (Show industry awareness). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select Key Projects: Choose 2-3 projects that best showcase your experience in managing T&D or similar complex infrastructure designs, highlighting your specific role and contributions.

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, follow a clear story: the challenge/objective, your management approach (processes, tools, team structure), key decisions made, obstacles overcome, and the successful outcome (quantify where possible).

• Emphasize Process & Controls: Detail how you managed scope, schedule, budget, quality, safety, and risks. Use visual aids like process diagrams if helpful.

• Highlight Collaboration: Explain how you worked with different disciplines, clients, and stakeholders.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about specific technical challenges, design decisions, or management strategies you employed.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of technical understanding, robust project management processes, and strong leadership. The ability to articulate past experiences using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) will be beneficial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

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

• Tailor Your CV: Highlight specific experience in Transmission & Distribution, multi-disciplinary project management, design lifecycle management, safety leadership, and client relationship management. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate case studies that demonstrate your project management capabilities, process adherence, and successful delivery of complex engineering designs. Focus on quantifiable achievements and your role in ensuring quality and safety.

• Research AECOM: Understand AECOM's mission, values, and recent projects, particularly in the Energy and T&D sectors. Familiarize yourself with the Great Grid Partnership.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare to answer behavioral and situational questions using the STAR method, focusing on leadership, problem-solving, stakeholder management, and technical oversight. Be ready to discuss your approach to "Safety by Design" and project controls.

⚠️ 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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