Design Manager, Transmission

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager, Transmission

Company: Acciona

Location: South Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Engineering / Operations (Infrastructure - Transmission)

Date Posted: May 30, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the end-to-end design lifecycle for high-voltage (HV) and medium-voltage (MV) transmission and substation projects, ensuring safety, compliance, and constructability.

• Manage complex multidisciplinary interfaces, bridging civil, electrical, protection, and control systems engineering teams to deliver integrated solutions.

• Drive technical quality and governance by applying Australian and international standards, while mentoring and developing engineering talent.

• Contribute to business development and strategic planning by identifying design risks, proposing innovative solutions, and supporting stakeholder engagement.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a senior leadership position within the transmission design function at Acciona, focusing on technical oversight, team development, and project delivery excellence in the Australian infrastructure sector. The emphasis on "regenerative infrastructure" and "sustainable future" suggests a company culture that values innovation and environmental responsibility.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Spearhead the planning, coordination, and successful delivery of HV/MV transmission line and substation designs, adhering to project timelines and budgets.

• Ensure all designs meet stringent safety standards, regulatory compliance, cost-effectiveness, and constructability requirements for field implementation.

• Proactively manage and resolve technical interfaces between civil, structural, electrical, protection, control, and telecommunication systems engineering disciplines.

• Mentor and develop a team of engineering professionals, fostering a culture of continuous learning, technical excellence, and capability uplift.

• Uphold and apply Australian Standards (AS/NZS), International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), and Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) standards throughout the design process.

• Conduct thorough risk assessments for design elements, identifying potential issues and developing robust technical solutions to mitigate them.

• Champion innovation in design methodologies and technologies, promoting continuous improvement to enhance efficiency and project outcomes.

• Actively support business development activities, including proposal development, client engagement, and strategic input for new project opportunities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a need for strong technical leadership in transmission engineering, combined with project management acumen and people management skills. The requirement to "support stakeholder engagement, proposals and business development" indicates this role has a strategic component beyond pure design execution.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering is mandatory.

• Chartered Status (including RPEV, RPEQ, NER & CPEng) is highly desirable, with the ability to achieve this within six months of commencement being a key requirement. Experience:

• Extensive experience (10+ years) in leading engineering teams within infrastructure or, specifically, transmission projects.

• A minimum of 5 years of fieldwork experience is ideally sought, demonstrating hands-on engineering support and site collaboration capabilities.

• Experience working with Tier 1 or Tier 2 contractors in Australia is highly regarded, signifying familiarity with large-scale project environments and contracting frameworks. Required Skills:

• Proven expertise in leading the design and delivery of HV/MV transmission lines and substations.

• Proficiency in managing complex multidisciplinary engineering interfaces.

• Strong understanding and application of Australian Standards (AS/NZS), IEC, and IEEE standards relevant to power systems.

• Demonstrated experience in risk assessment and mitigation for engineering designs.

• Excellent team leadership, mentoring, and capability development skills.

• Strong safety-first mindset and a commitment to implementing safe engineering practices. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with specific transmission project types such as overhead lines, underground cables, and associated civil structures.

• Familiarity with protection and control systems design principles.

• Experience in proposal development and contributing to business development efforts.

• Knowledge of innovative design tools and methodologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on Chartered Status and experience with large contractors suggests the role demands a high level of professional engineering credibility and practical experience in delivering complex, high-value projects within the Australian regulatory and commercial landscape.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a portfolio showcasing successful leadership in the design and delivery of complex transmission infrastructure projects, highlighting scale and impact.

• Include case studies detailing the management of multidisciplinary design interfaces and the resolution of technical challenges, emphasizing process optimization.

• Provide evidence of applying Australian Standards and international best practices (IEC, IEEE) in design documentation and execution.

• Showcase examples of risk identification and mitigation strategies implemented throughout the design lifecycle, with a focus on constructability and safety. Process Documentation:

• Exhibit proficiency in developing and overseeing comprehensive design documentation, including specifications, drawings, calculations, and reports, from conceptualization to detailed design.

• Demonstrate experience in establishing and refining design workflows and review processes to ensure technical accuracy, efficiency, and compliance.

• Provide examples of how design processes were optimized for constructability, cost-effectiveness, and adherence to project timelines, supported by measurable outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates will be expected to present tangible evidence of their design leadership capabilities, particularly concerning complex transmission projects. The portfolio should clearly articulate their approach to process management, risk mitigation, and adherence to industry standards within the Australian context.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for a Design Manager with 10+ years of experience in transmission infrastructure in Melbourne, Australia, a competitive salary range is estimated between AUD $160,000 and AUD $220,000 per annum, depending on qualifications and experience. Benefits:

• Annual wellness and mental health support programs.

• Comprehensive income protection coverage.

• Discounted health insurance options.

• Attractive salary packaging and car leasing options.

• Access to an employee assistance program for confidential support. Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours, typically around 40 hours per week, with potential for flexibility based on project demands and individual arrangements, aligning with Acciona's commitment to employee well-being.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is derived from recent Australian engineering salary surveys for senior roles in the infrastructure and energy sectors, considering the specified experience level and location. The listed benefits are typical for large, established organizations in Australia, aiming to support employee well-being and financial security.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Acciona operates within the Renewable Energy, Infrastructure, and Water sectors, with a strong focus on developing "regenerative infrastructure" that creates positive societal impact and promotes sustainable development.

Company Size: Acciona is a global company with over 65,000 employees worldwide and more than 3,000 employees across Australia & New Zealand, indicating a large, established, and resourced organization.

Founded: Founded in 1997, Acciona has a significant history and a well-established presence in Australia since 2002, demonstrating stability and long-term commitment to the region.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager will likely lead a dedicated transmission design team, comprising electrical engineers, civil/structural engineers, and potentially protection/controls specialists, working within the broader Australian infrastructure division.

• Reporting will likely be to a senior engineering director or head of engineering, with close collaboration expected with project managers, construction teams, and commercial/business development departments.

• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, involving close liaison with project delivery teams, procurement, construction sites, and client representatives to ensure seamless project execution. Methodology:

• Acciona emphasizes a data-driven approach to project development and execution, focusing on innovation and the application of advanced engineering methodologies.

• Workflow planning and optimization are critical, particularly in managing the complex design lifecycle of transmission projects to ensure efficiency and constructability.

• Automation and efficiency practices are likely integrated into design processes to manage large-scale projects effectively and maintain a competitive edge.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Acciona's "Top Employer" certifications in Australia underscore a commitment to employee welfare and development. The company's mission to "design a better planet" suggests a culture that values innovation, sustainability, and a proactive approach to solving global challenges, which will likely be reflected in its engineering and operations teams.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior-level position within the engineering and operations domain, specifically focused on technical leadership and design management for critical infrastructure. It requires significant experience and the ability to influence project outcomes and team capabilities.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will typically report to a senior engineering executive (e.g., Head of Engineering, Engineering Director) and will manage a team of engineers. This structure places them in a key position for technical decision-making and team development within the transmission segment.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct and significant impact on the success of Acciona's transmission projects. Effective design management ensures projects are delivered safely, on time, within budget, and to the required technical specifications, directly contributing to revenue generation and Acciona's reputation for delivering high-quality infrastructure.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Advance to principal engineer roles, focusing on highly specialized technical areas within transmission systems or leading R&D in new design technologies.

• Leadership Progression: Move into broader engineering management roles, such as Head of Design, Engineering Director, or Program Director, overseeing multiple projects or larger engineering functions.

• Cross-Functional Roles: Transition into project management, commercial management, or business development roles leveraging deep technical understanding and project lifecycle experience.

• Global Opportunities: With Acciona's global presence, there may be opportunities to contribute to international projects or transfers.

📝 Enhancement Note: Acciona's "Top Employer" status and stated commitment to professional development pathways suggest structured opportunities for career advancement. The role provides a strong foundation for growth into senior leadership or specialized technical expert positions within the energy and infrastructure sector.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in a corporate office environment in South Melbourne, designed to foster collaboration and provide the necessary resources for engineering design and management.

Office Location(s): South Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, with potential for travel to other Acciona offices (Sydney, Brisbane, Perth) and project sites as required.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely offer a collaborative open-plan or team-based office setup, encouraging interaction with fellow engineers, project managers, and support staff.

• Access to advanced design software, engineering tools, and IT infrastructure will be provided to support complex design tasks and project management.

• Opportunities for regular interaction with the engineering team, project leadership, and other departments, fostering a strong sense of teamwork and shared objectives.

Work Schedule: While the standard is 40 hours per week, Acciona's commitment to employee well-being and the nature of infrastructure projects may allow for some flexibility in working hours, subject to project demands and team coordination.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature of the role in a dedicated office environment in South Melbourne emphasizes a collaborative and resource-rich setting, crucial for managing complex engineering designs and fostering team cohesion.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and Cover Letter, with a focus on highlighting relevant transmission design leadership experience, qualifications (especially Chartered Status), and contractor experience.

• Technical Interview: An in-depth discussion with senior engineering leaders and potential peers to assess technical expertise, understanding of standards, problem-solving skills, and experience with HV/MV transmission projects. Be prepared to discuss specific design challenges and solutions.

• Portfolio Presentation: A dedicated session where you will present key projects from your portfolio, detailing your role, design methodologies, interface management strategies, risk mitigation approaches, and team leadership. Expect questions on how you drive technical quality and innovation.

• Cultural Fit & Leadership Assessment: An interview focused on your leadership style, mentoring approach, collaboration skills, and alignment with Acciona's values of sustainability and positive societal impact.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior executive to discuss strategic fit, career aspirations, and final offer details.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio by project type (transmission lines, substations) or by key responsibilities (design leadership, interface management, risk mitigation).

• Content: For each project, clearly articulate:

  • The project's scope, scale, and technical complexity.
  • Your specific role and leadership responsibilities.
  • The design processes and standards applied.
  • Key challenges faced (technical, interface, risk) and how you mitigated them.
  • Quantifiable achievements (e.g., cost savings, schedule improvements, safety record).
  • Team management and mentoring aspects.

• Presentation: Be ready to discuss your portfolio items in detail, focusing on your decision-making process and the impact of your contributions. Emphasize your understanding of constructability and safety.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for hypothetical scenario questions related to design challenges, stakeholder conflicts, or risk management within transmission projects.

• Practice articulating complex technical concepts clearly and concisely.

• Research Acciona's recent projects and their commitment to sustainability to align your responses with company values.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to thoroughly assess both technical competence and leadership capabilities. A well-prepared and impactful portfolio presentation is crucial for demonstrating practical experience and strategic thinking relevant to Acciona's infrastructure projects.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency with industry-standard CAD software for electrical and civil design (e.g., AutoCAD Electrical, Bentley Substation, Revit MEP).

• Engineering Analysis Software: Experience with power system analysis tools (e.g., PSS/E, ETAP, DIgSILENT PowerFactory) for load flow, short circuit, transient stability, and protection coordination studies.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with project management platforms (e.g., MS Project, Primavera P6) for planning, scheduling, and tracking design progress.

• 3D Modelling & BIM: Experience with 3D modelling and Building Information Modelling (BIM) tools for design visualization and coordination.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret and utilize data from design simulations, site investigations, and project performance metrics.

• Reporting Software: Skill in generating technical reports, design summaries, and performance dashboards using standard office suites (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite).

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design data integrates with project management and commercial systems is beneficial.

• Familiarity with any internal Acciona systems for document management and workflow automation would be an advantage.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job description doesn't explicitly list specific software, a Design Manager in transmission engineering is expected to be proficient with a range of sophisticated CAD, simulation, and project management tools commonly used in the Australian infrastructure sector.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Sustainability & Positive Impact: A core value, reflected in Acciona's mission to develop "regenerative infrastructure" and "design a better planet." Operations professionals are expected to contribute to these goals.

• Technical Excellence & Innovation: A strong emphasis on applying best practices, driving continuous improvement, and adopting new technologies to deliver cutting-edge solutions.

• Safety First: An unwavering commitment to safety in all aspects of work, from design to site execution, ensuring the well-being of employees and the public.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a cooperative environment where diverse teams work together effectively to achieve common project objectives.

• Integrity & Ethics: Upholding high standards of professional conduct and ethical decision-making in all business dealings.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive and cross-functional, encouraging open communication and knowledge sharing between design, project management, construction, and commercial teams.

• Emphasis on constructive feedback and collaborative problem-solving to ensure alignment and efficiency across all project phases.

• A culture of continuous learning and adaptation, where teams are encouraged to experiment with new approaches and share lessons learned.

📝 Enhancement Note: Acciona's values are deeply embedded in its corporate identity and mission. Successful candidates will demonstrate an alignment with these values, particularly regarding sustainability, innovation, and a dedication to high-quality, safe engineering practices.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Complex Interfaces: Effectively coordinating diverse engineering disciplines (civil, electrical, protection) on large-scale transmission projects can be challenging, requiring strong communication and negotiation skills.

• Adhering to Evolving Standards & Regulations: Keeping abreast of and implementing the latest Australian and international standards, as well as local regulatory requirements, demands continuous learning.

• Balancing Cost, Schedule, and Technical Quality: Delivering designs that are not only technically sound but also cost-effective and achievable within project timelines requires strategic planning and rigorous oversight.

• Driving Innovation in a Traditional Sector: Encouraging the adoption of new technologies and methodologies within a sector that can sometimes be resistant to change requires persuasive leadership and demonstrable benefits.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Professional Development Programs: Access to Acciona's structured learning and development pathways, including leadership training, technical workshops, and project management courses.

• Industry Conferences & Seminars: Opportunities to attend relevant industry events to stay updated on the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in transmission engineering.

• Mentorship: Benefit from mentorship from senior leaders within Acciona and opportunities to mentor junior engineers, fostering leadership growth.

• Certifications: Support for obtaining and maintaining professional certifications (e.g., CPEng, RPEQ) and specialized technical accreditations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents opportunities to tackle technically demanding projects and drive innovation, offering significant professional growth. Acciona's investment in its employees through structured development programs and certifications provides a clear path for career advancement within the energy and infrastructure sectors.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you led a complex transmission design project. What were the key technical challenges, how did you manage multidisciplinary interfaces, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on structured problem-solving, technical depth, and collaboration.)

• "How do you ensure designs are both cost-effective and constructible while meeting stringent safety and compliance standards?" (Highlight your understanding of the full project lifecycle and trade-offs.)

• "Discuss your approach to mentoring and developing engineering teams. How do you foster a culture of technical excellence and innovation?" (Emphasize leadership style, team building, and knowledge transfer.)

• "How do you stay current with evolving Australian Standards and international best practices in transmission engineering?" (Demonstrate commitment to continuous learning.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracts you to Acciona and our mission of developing regenerative infrastructure?" (Connect your values to Acciona's purpose.)

• "How would you contribute to Acciona's commitment to sustainability and positive societal impact through your design leadership?" (Showcase your understanding of the company's core values.)

• "Describe your experience working with Tier 1 or Tier 2 contractors. What are the key considerations for collaboration in such environments?" (Highlight practical experience relevant to Acciona's operating context.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select impactful projects: Choose 2-3 projects that best demonstrate your leadership, technical expertise, and ability to manage complex design challenges.

• Focus on your role and impact: Clearly articulate your specific contributions, decision-making process, and the results achieved. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Highlight process and standards: Explain how you applied design processes, managed interfaces, mitigated risks, and adhered to relevant standards (AS/NZS, IEC, IEEE).

• Practice your narrative: Ensure a clear, concise, and compelling story for each project, ready to answer detailed questions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to discuss their experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) and be ready to articulate their leadership philosophy and how it aligns with Acciona's values and operational demands.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager, Transmission position:

• Submit your application through the Acciona careers portal.

• Tailor your CV: Highlight your extensive experience in HV/MV transmission and substation design leadership, emphasizing your qualifications (Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering, Chartered Status if applicable), and any experience with Tier 1/2 contractors.

• Prepare your portfolio: Curate a selection of your most impactful projects that showcase your design leadership, interface management, risk mitigation, and team development skills. Be ready to discuss these in detail.

• Research Acciona: Familiarize yourself with Acciona's mission, values, recent projects in Australia, and their commitment to sustainability. Understand how your skills and experience align with their goals.

• Practice your interview responses: Prepare answers to common technical, behavioral, and situational interview questions, focusing on demonstrating your leadership capabilities and technical acumen.

⚠️ 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.