Design Manager, Transmission

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager, Transmission

Company: Acciona

Location: Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Engineering / Infrastructure Operations

Date Posted: 2026-03-30

Experience Level: Senior / 10+ Years Experience

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the planning, coordination, and technical oversight of High Voltage (HV) and Medium Voltage (MV) transmission line and substation designs, ensuring adherence to project objectives and operational efficiency.

• Drive the development and execution of design solutions, managing multidisciplinary engineering inputs and ensuring technical consistency across all project phases from conceptualization to delivery.

• Oversee the entire design lifecycle, including overhead lines, underground cables, associated structures, civil interfaces, and critical protection and control systems, to guarantee constructible and compliant outcomes.

• Foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement within the design team, actively identifying and proposing technical solutions to mitigate design risks and enhance project performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a senior leadership position within Acciona's transmission infrastructure division. The focus on "regenerative infrastructure" and "sustainable future" indicates a strategic imperative for the company, suggesting that design decisions will be evaluated not only on technical and cost merit but also on their contribution to sustainability goals. The emphasis on Australian standards and client collaboration implies a need for strong regulatory understanding and relationship management skills.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the comprehensive planning, coordination, and successful delivery of HV/MV transmission line and substation designs, aligning with project timelines, budgets, and technical specifications.

• Ensure all designs are meticulously developed to be safe, compliant with relevant Australian and international standards (IEC, IEEE, AS/NZS), cost-effective, and readily constructible by field teams.

• Proactively manage and coordinate interfaces between various engineering disciplines, including civil, electrical, protection, and control systems, to prevent conflicts and ensure seamless integration.

• Mentor and guide junior and mid-level engineering teams, fostering their technical development and uplifting overall team capability to meet project demands and career progression goals.

• Apply and enforce Australian standards and regulatory requirements, maintaining rigorous technical quality control throughout the design process and championing a safety-first mindset.

• Proactively identify potential design risks, technical challenges, and constructability issues, developing and proposing effective technical solutions and mitigation strategies.

• Champion innovation within the design function, exploring new technologies and methodologies to drive continuous improvement in design processes and project outcomes.

• Support business development initiatives by contributing technical expertise to proposals, engaging with stakeholders, and identifying opportunities for design excellence.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary responsibilities highlight a blend of technical leadership, project management, and team mentorship. The emphasis on "cost-effective and constructible" outcomes suggests a strong link to the operations and construction phases, requiring the Design Manager to have a practical understanding of field execution. The mention of proposals and business development indicates a strategic role that extends beyond pure design execution.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• Extensive professional experience, exceeding 10 years, in leading engineering teams specifically within infrastructure or transmission projects.

• Ideally, a minimum of 5 years of hands-on fieldwork experience supporting engineering activities, demonstrating a practical understanding of site operations and collaboration.

Required Skills:

• Proven expertise in leading and managing multidisciplinary engineering design teams for complex transmission infrastructure.

• Deep understanding and application of Australian standards (AS/NZS) and international standards (IEC, IEEE) relevant to transmission lines and substations.

• Exceptional coordination and interface management skills across civil, electrical, protection, and control systems.

• Strong technical leadership abilities, with a demonstrated capacity to mentor and develop engineering talent.

• A robust safety-first mindset, with a commitment to embedding safety principles into all design processes.

• Proficiency in identifying, evaluating, and mitigating design risks.

• Demonstrated ability to drive innovation and continuous improvement in engineering practices.

Preferred Skills:

• Chartered Professional Engineer (CPEng) status, Registered Professional Engineer of Victoria (RPEV), Registered Professional Engineer of Queensland (RPEQ), or inclusion on the National Engineering Register (NER), or the ability to achieve one of these within 6 months of commencement.

• Experience in supporting proposals and business development activities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for Chartered Status or the ability to achieve it within six months strongly suggests that this role involves significant professional responsibility and a need for recognized engineering accreditation within Australia. The preference for Tier 1/Tier 2 contractor experience indicates the company's focus on large-scale, complex projects, possibly involving significant contractual and regulatory scrutiny.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a history of successfully leading major transmission design projects from inception to completion, showcasing clear project scope, challenges, and outcomes.

• Provide case studies of complex design challenges and the innovative solutions implemented, emphasizing how these solutions improved safety, compliance, cost-effectiveness, or constructability.

• Include examples of process optimization within design workflows, highlighting improvements in efficiency, collaboration, or risk management.

• Showcase experience in managing multidisciplinary design interfaces, illustrating how complex interdependencies were resolved effectively.

Process Documentation:

• Evidence of developing and implementing standardized design processes and quality assurance protocols for transmission projects.

• Documentation of how design risks were identified, assessed, and managed throughout project lifecycles.

• Examples of design reviews conducted, including the methodologies used and the impact on design quality and constructability.

• Demonstrate familiarity with and application of relevant Australian and international engineering standards in design documentation.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role, a portfolio is crucial. It should not just list projects but critically analyze the Design Manager's role, the processes they implemented or refined, and the tangible improvements achieved. The focus should be on demonstrating leadership, technical depth, and the ability to translate strategic objectives (like sustainability and cost-effectiveness) into actionable design plans.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Annual wellness and mental health support, contributing to employee well-being.

• Comprehensive Income Protection insurance, providing financial security.

• Discounted Health options, offering more affordable private health insurance.

• Attractive Salary Packaging options, allowing for tax-efficient salary allocation.

• Car Leasing options, potentially including novated leases for personal vehicles.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP), offering confidential counseling and support services.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours are typically around 38-40 hours per week. However, the role may require flexibility to manage project deadlines, attend site visits, or collaborate with international teams across different time zones.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided benefits are substantial and indicate Acciona's commitment to employee welfare and financial security. The salary range is an estimation based on general market data for senior engineering management roles in Australia and should be confirmed with the employer. The mention of "Top Employer" certification further supports the expectation of a competitive compensation and benefits package.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry:

Company Size:

Founded:

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager will likely lead a team of engineers specializing in transmission line and substation design. This team may consist of electrical engineers, civil engineers, protection and control specialists, and drafters.

• The reporting structure would typically involve the Design Manager reporting to a senior engineering manager or project director. The role also requires close collaboration with project managers, construction managers, procurement teams, and client representatives.

Methodology:

• Acciona's commitment to "regenerative infrastructure" suggests a design methodology that prioritizes sustainability, lifecycle assessment, and positive environmental impact alongside technical and economic viability.

• The emphasis on Australian standards and technical quality implies a rigorous approach to design processes, including detailed reviews, risk assessments, and adherence to regulatory frameworks.

Company Website:

• https://www.acciona.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Acciona's strong emphasis on sustainability and its "Top Employer" status are significant cultural indicators. The Design Manager should be prepared to articulate how their design decisions contribute to these overarching company goals. The global presence and substantial Australian operations suggest a structured, professional environment with clear expectations for leadership and technical excellence.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level:

Reporting Structure:

Operations Impact:

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Opportunity to deepen expertise in HV/MV transmission design, gain exposure to cutting-edge technologies, and lead increasingly complex and large-scale projects. There's potential to specialize further in areas like grid modernization, renewable energy integration, or advanced protection systems.

• Leadership Development: Progression to roles such as Principal Design Manager, Engineering Manager for larger programs, or even a Head of Design function, overseeing multiple project portfolios. The role also provides opportunities to develop people management and strategic planning skills.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Potential to move into project management roles, business development, or strategic planning within Acciona's infrastructure division, leveraging a deep understanding of design and construction interfaces. The global nature of Acciona may also offer opportunities for international assignments or collaborations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "regenerative infrastructure" and sustainability means growth opportunities might also involve leading design initiatives that specifically target environmental benefits and community impact, aligning with broader ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) objectives.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type:

Office Location(s):

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely be part of a larger engineering or project management hub within the Acciona office. This environment is expected to be collaborative, with opportunities for regular interaction with other engineering disciplines, project managers, and support staff.

• Expect access to standard office technology, engineering software, and potentially dedicated design workstations. The collaborative nature of the office will facilitate team meetings, design reviews, and knowledge sharing.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is full-time, likely aligning with typical Australian business hours (e.g., 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday to Friday). However, the demands of project deadlines, client needs, and potential site engagements may necessitate occasional flexibility, such as working extended hours or being available outside standard hours for urgent matters.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the core work is office-based, the mention of fieldwork experience (10+ years, ideally 5+ years) and the nature of transmission projects suggest that occasional travel to project sites, manufacturing facilities, or client offices may be required. This should be factored into the candidate's expectations.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A recruiter or HR representative will likely conduct an initial screening to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit. Be prepared to articulate your career trajectory and why you are interested in Acciona and this specific role.

• Hiring Manager Interview: This will likely be with the direct manager (e.g., Head of Engineering, Program Director). Expect questions focused on your technical expertise, leadership style, project management experience, and how you handle complex design challenges. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your past roles.

• Technical/Team Interview: This stage may involve a panel interview with senior engineers, subject matter experts, or potential team members. Questions will delve deeper into your technical knowledge of transmission design, Australian standards, risk management, and your approach to team collaboration and mentorship.

• Portfolio Review Session: Candidates will likely be asked to present their portfolio, focusing on 2-3 key projects that demonstrate their experience as a Design Manager. This is an opportunity to showcase your leadership, problem-solving skills, and impact on project outcomes.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a more senior executive or director to assess strategic alignment, cultural fit, and overall suitability for the role and company.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or by key skills (e.g., leadership, technical problem-solving, innovation).

• Case Studies: For each key project, develop a concise case study that includes:

  • Project overview (scope, client, location, budget if appropriate).
  • Your specific role and responsibilities as Design Manager.
  • Key design challenges faced (technical, interface, regulatory, constructability).
  • Your strategic approach and the solutions implemented.
  • Quantifiable outcomes and impact (e.g., cost savings, schedule improvements, safety records, sustainability benefits).

• Metrics: Highlight your ability to use data and metrics to drive decisions and demonstrate success. Quantify achievements wherever possible.

• Standards & Compliance: Explicitly show how you ensured compliance with Australian Standards and relevant regulations.

• Leadership & Mentorship: Include examples of how you led, mentored, and developed your engineering team.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for potential technical challenges or case studies that require you to:

  • Analyze a complex transmission design problem.
  • Propose a technical solution, considering safety, cost, and constructability.
  • Outline a plan for managing design interfaces or risks.
  • Discuss how you would approach leading a team through a difficult design phase.

• Practice articulating your thought process clearly and concisely. Focus on demonstrating your problem-solving methodology and strategic thinking.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the "Top Employer" status and emphasis on professional development, Acciona likely values candidates who demonstrate self-awareness, a commitment to continuous learning, and a collaborative spirit. Prepare to discuss not only your successes but also lessons learned from challenging projects.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency with industry-standard CAD software for electrical and civil design, such as AutoCAD, Bentley MicroStation, or similar platforms used for detailed design and drafting of transmission lines and substations.

• 3D Modeling & BIM: Experience with 3D modeling tools and potentially Building Information Modeling (BIM) software (e.g., Revit, Navisworks) for design visualization, clash detection, and integrated project delivery.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with project management tools like Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or Acciona's internal systems for planning, scheduling, and tracking design progress.

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

Analytics & Reporting:

• Design Analysis Tools: Familiarity with specialized software for transmission line design and analysis (e.g., PLS-CADD, PowerFactory DIgSILENT) for load calculations, sag-and-tension, clearance checks, and system performance modeling.

• Risk Management Software: Experience with tools or methodologies for risk assessment and management within engineering projects.

• Reporting Tools: Ability to generate and interpret technical reports, performance metrics, and progress updates using standard office suites (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite – Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design data integrates with CRM and ERP systems for project financials, procurement, and client management is beneficial.

• Familiarity with workflow automation tools or methodologies that can streamline design processes, document management, or review cycles.

• Integration Tools: Awareness of how different engineering software tools integrate to ensure data consistency and efficiency across the design lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: The specific list of design analysis tools (e.g., PLS-CADD) is inferred based on industry standards for transmission line engineering. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with tools relevant to both electrical and civil aspects of transmission design.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Sustainability & Regeneration: A core value at Acciona, expecting operations professionals to actively contribute to environmentally responsible and socially beneficial infrastructure projects. This means considering the lifecycle impact of designs and seeking solutions that minimize environmental footprint.

• Integrity & Ethics: Upholding the highest standards of honesty and ethical conduct in all dealings, crucial for large-scale infrastructure projects involving significant public and private investment.

• Excellence & Innovation: A commitment to delivering high-quality work, continuously seeking better methods, and embracing new technologies to drive efficiency and improve outcomes. This translates to a culture that encourages proactive problem-solving and creative thinking in design.

• People & Collaboration: Valuing employees and fostering a collaborative environment where diverse perspectives are respected, and teamwork is essential for success. Acciona's "Top Employer" status underscores this commitment, indicating a focus on employee well-being, development, and mutual respect.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expect a highly collaborative environment where the design team works closely with construction, project management, procurement, and client teams. Effective communication and a shared understanding of project goals are paramount.

• Process Review & Feedback: A culture that encourages constructive feedback and open dialogue during design reviews and project meetings. The willingness to both give and receive feedback is key to continuous improvement.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouragement of sharing best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise across different projects and teams. This could involve internal workshops, knowledge-sharing platforms, or informal mentoring.

📝 Enhancement Note: Acciona's values, particularly sustainability and people focus, are strong differentiators. Candidates should be prepared to discuss how their past work and personal values align with these principles, demonstrating a genuine commitment beyond just technical skill.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Competing Project Demands: Managing multiple complex transmission design projects simultaneously, each with unique technical requirements, deadlines, and stakeholder expectations. This requires excellent prioritization and time management skills.

• Navigating Regulatory Landscapes: Ensuring designs meet stringent and evolving Australian standards, environmental regulations, and client-specific requirements, which can be complex and time-consuming.

• Integrating New Technologies: Keeping pace with and effectively integrating emerging technologies (e.g., advanced materials, digital twin concepts, smart grid components) into design processes to enhance efficiency and performance.

• Managing Stakeholder Expectations: Effectively communicating complex technical information and design trade-offs to a diverse group of stakeholders, including clients, regulatory bodies, and construction teams, who may have varying levels of technical understanding.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Access to training and development programs focused on advanced transmission engineering, specialized design software, and project management methodologies. This could include certifications or courses in areas like grid modernization, renewable energy integration, or advanced risk management.

• Industry Conferences & Networking: Opportunities to attend industry events, conferences (e.g., Engineers Australia, IEEE events), and workshops to stay abreast of the latest trends, network with peers, and gain insights into best practices.

• Operations Mentorship & Leadership: Formal and informal mentorship programs, potentially pairing with senior leaders within Acciona, to develop leadership capabilities, strategic thinking, and career progression planning. This could also involve leading cross-functional initiatives or taking on more significant team leadership responsibilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for senior roles in large infrastructure projects. The emphasis should be on how a candidate has successfully navigated similar situations and what strategies they employ for continuous learning and adaptation in a dynamic industry.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Operations Strategy: "Describe a time you had to balance competing demands for safety, cost, and constructability in a transmission design. What was your approach, and what was the outcome?" (Preparation: Focus on your decision-making process, trade-offs considered, and how you aligned with project objectives.)

• Collaboration & Stakeholder Management: "How do you ensure effective communication and alignment between design teams, construction teams, and clients, especially when there are conflicting priorities?" (Preparation: Prepare an example demonstrating your communication skills, negotiation abilities, and proactive conflict resolution. Highlight your understanding of different stakeholder needs.)

• Problem-Solving: "Walk us through a complex technical challenge you encountered in a transmission design project. What steps did you take to analyze the problem, develop solutions, and implement the best option?" (Preparation: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answer, emphasizing your analytical skills, technical judgment, and process for problem resolution.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• Company Operations Culture: "Acciona is committed to 'regenerative infrastructure.' How would your design philosophy and approach contribute to this mission?" (Preparation: Research Acciona's sustainability initiatives and articulate how your design choices can support environmental and social benefits. Connect your values to theirs.)

• Operations Team Dynamics: "How do you foster a collaborative and high-performing engineering team, especially when dealing with tight deadlines and technical challenges?" (Preparation: Discuss your leadership style, mentoring approaches, and strategies for team cohesion and motivation. Reference your experience in uplifting engineering capability.)

• Operations Impact Measurement: "How do you measure the success of your design management function and its contribution to overall project goals?" (Preparation: Think about KPIs related to design quality, schedule adherence, cost control, risk mitigation, and team performance. Be ready to discuss how you track and report on these metrics.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Process Improvement Case Study: Select a project where you significantly improved a design process or resolved a critical technical issue. Clearly outline the "before" state, the changes you implemented, and the quantifiable "after" state (e.g., reduced rework, faster approvals, improved safety metrics).

• Metrics Presentation: For your selected projects, present key metrics that demonstrate your impact. This could include budget adherence, schedule performance, number of design changes post-approval, safety incident rates related to design, or efficiency gains from new methodologies.

• Interactive Demonstration: Be prepared to discuss specific design elements, drawings, or 3D models if available, to illustrate your technical expertise and decision-making process. Explain the rationale behind key design choices.

• Company-Specific Considerations: Tailor your presentation to highlight how your experience and approach align with Acciona's focus on sustainability, innovation, and Australian infrastructure standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to assess not only technical competence but also leadership potential and cultural fit. Demonstrating an understanding of Acciona's mission and values will be as important as showcasing technical prowess. The portfolio is your primary tool for illustrating your capabilities; ensure it's well-prepared and rehearsed.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided Workday link: https://acciona.wd3.myworkdayjobs.com/ACCIONA_Employment_Channel/job/Melbourne/Design-Manager--Transmission_20093749

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your extensive experience (10+ years) in infrastructure/transmission design leadership, your specific achievements in managing HV/MV projects, and your familiarity with Australian standards. If you have a formal portfolio, ensure it clearly showcases your ability to lead engineering teams, manage complex interfaces, and drive constructible and cost-effective designs.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume prominently features keywords from the job description, such as "Design Manager," "Transmission," "HV/MV," "Electrical Engineering," "Australian Standards," "Risk Management," "Team Leadership," and any relevant software proficiencies. Quantify your achievements with numbers and data wherever possible.

• Interview Preparation: Thoroughly review the "Interview Preparation" section above. Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method and prepare specific examples that demonstrate your leadership, technical expertise, and problem-solving skills. Rehearse your portfolio presentation.

• Company Research: Deepen your understanding of Acciona's recent projects in Australia, their commitment to sustainability, and their company culture. Look for recent news or reports that highlight their work in transmission infrastructure. This will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate genuine interest and alignment.

⚠️ 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.