Design Manager - Water Infrastructure

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager - Water Infrastructure

Company: Aurecon

Location: Brisbane, Queensland, Australia (Hybrid)

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Engineering & Design Operations / Infrastructure Project Management

Date Posted: 2026-11-05

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and coordinate multidisciplinary design teams responsible for the technical integration and delivery of complex water and wastewater infrastructure projects.

• Drive the translation of client requirements and strategic objectives into actionable design strategies, coordinated deliverables, and sound technical decisions.

• Partner with Project Managers to effectively manage project scope, program, budget, quality, and design-related risks, ensuring operational efficiency and project success.

• Foster a collaborative and inclusive team environment that encourages constructive challenge, continuous learning, and the development of engineering talent.

• Cultivate and maintain strong client relationships with key stakeholders in the Queensland water sector, including government agencies and utility providers.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a senior leadership opportunity within Aurecon's Queensland Water team, focusing on the strategic and technical oversight of water infrastructure projects. The emphasis on "engineering optimists" and "shaping the future of water security" suggests a company culture that values innovation, sustainability, and long-term impact. The hybrid work arrangement indicates a balance between in-office collaboration for design integration and client interaction, and remote flexibility.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate multidisciplinary design teams (civil, structural, mechanical, electrical, process, etc.) in the development of water and wastewater treatment plants, pipelines, pumping stations, and associated infrastructure.

• Develop and implement robust design management plans, ensuring adherence to Aurecon's technical governance, design assurance protocols, and Australian water industry standards.

• Oversee the technical integration of designs across various disciplines, resolving interface issues and ensuring seamless project delivery from concept to detailed design and construction support.

• Manage design scope, schedule, budget, and quality control, proactively identifying and mitigating design risks and potential claims.

• Engage proactively with clients, including Seqwater, Unitywater, Urban Utilities, and local government agencies, to understand their needs, build trust, and influence project direction.

• Champion safety in design principles throughout the project lifecycle, ensuring compliance with relevant legislation and industry best practices.

• Mentor and develop junior engineers and designers, fostering a culture of technical excellence, continuous improvement, and professional growth.

• Contribute to business development efforts by identifying opportunities for Aurecon within the water infrastructure sector and supporting proposal development.

• Ensure that design outcomes align with sustainability principles and contribute to the long-term resilience and efficiency of water infrastructure.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical leadership, project management oversight, and client relationship management. The emphasis on "design integration," "interface issues," and "technical governance" points to the critical need for a candidate who can orchestrate complex engineering processes. Mentoring and developing teams are key components, suggesting a leadership role focused on people development alongside project execution.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Civil, Environmental, Chemical, Mechanical, or related discipline).

• Chartered Professional Engineer (CPEng) status is highly preferred.

• Registered Professional Engineer of Queensland (RPEQ) registration is preferred, or a clear and demonstrable pathway towards obtaining it. Experience:

• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in engineering design and project delivery, with a significant portion focused on water and wastewater infrastructure.

• Proven track record in leading and managing multidisciplinary design teams through the full project lifecycle, from concept development to detailed design and construction phases.

• Experience working with major water utilities, government agencies, or engineering consultancies in Australia, particularly within Queensland. Required Skills:

• Design Management: Proficient in managing complex engineering design processes, including scope definition, planning, execution, and quality control for water and wastewater projects.

• Technical Leadership: Ability to provide clear technical direction, resolve complex engineering challenges, and ensure design integrity across multiple disciplines.

• Stakeholder Management: Exceptional communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills to effectively engage with clients, project managers, design teams, and other stakeholders.

• Australian Water Industry Standards: In-depth knowledge of relevant Australian standards, codes, and regulations pertaining to water and wastewater infrastructure design, including design assurance, safety in design, and technical governance.

• Project Controls: Understanding of project management principles related to scope, schedule, budget, and risk management within an engineering design context.

• Team Leadership & Mentoring: Proven ability to lead, motivate, and develop engineering teams, fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with specific water treatment technologies (e.g., membrane filtration, UV disinfection, advanced oxidation).

• Familiarity with digital engineering tools and workflows, such as BIM and advanced simulation software.

• Experience in asset management and lifecycle planning for water infrastructure.

• Business development and proposal writing experience within the consulting engineering sector.

• Strong understanding of sustainability frameworks and their application to water infrastructure projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on RPEQ and Chartered status indicates a strong preference for professionally accredited engineers who understand the regulatory and technical landscape in Queensland. The blend of hard engineering skills with soft leadership and client-facing abilities is crucial for this role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Leadership Case Studies: Showcase examples of leading multidisciplinary design teams on significant water or wastewater infrastructure projects, detailing your role, challenges faced, and the outcomes achieved.

• Technical Problem-Solving Examples: Provide specific instances where you resolved complex engineering design issues, demonstrating your analytical skills, innovative thinking, and ability to implement practical solutions.

• Project Management Integration: Illustrate how you have partnered with Project Managers to successfully balance design scope, schedule, budget, and quality requirements on past projects.

• Client Engagement & Influence: Include examples of successful client engagement, demonstrating your ability to build trust, manage expectations, and influence decision-making for project success.

• Process Improvement Initiatives: Highlight any contributions made to improving design processes, workflows, or standards within previous organizations, focusing on efficiency, quality, or safety enhancements.

Process Documentation:

• Demonstrable understanding of the need for clear, concise, and comprehensive design documentation throughout the project lifecycle.

• Ability to contribute to the development and review of design basis reports, technical specifications, drawings, and design risk assessments.

• Experience in establishing and maintaining design assurance processes to ensure the technical integrity and compliance of project deliverables.

• Familiarity with quality management systems and their application to engineering design processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to present case studies that clearly articulate their leadership in design coordination, technical decision-making, and risk management. The portfolio should emphasize quantifiable achievements and demonstrate a systematic approach to design delivery within Aurecon's operational framework.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

AUD $150,000 - $200,000 per annum (estimated, based on experience level, location, and industry benchmarks for senior Design Managers in Australia).

Benefits:

• Flexible Working Arrangements: Support for hybrid work, part-time options, and job-share arrangements to promote work-life balance.

• Professional Development: Comprehensive mentoring programs, access to learning opportunities, and support for ongoing professional development and certifications.

• Wellbeing Support: Robust employee assistance programs and initiatives focused on physical and mental wellbeing.

• Career Growth: Opportunities for career advancement within Aurecon's extensive network across Australia, New Zealand, and Asia, including leadership development programs.

• Diverse Project Portfolio: Exposure to a wide range of challenging and impactful water infrastructure projects that contribute to community resilience and sustainability.

• Collaborative Environment: Being part of a supportive team where diverse perspectives are valued and contributions are recognized.

• Superannuation: Standard employer contributions as per Australian legislation.

• Professional Memberships: Reimbursement for relevant professional body memberships (e.g., Engineers Australia).

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are typically 40 hours per week.

• Aurecon supports flexible working arrangements, allowing for potential adjustments to daily start/end times, subject to project and team needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The estimated salary range is based on market research for Design Manager roles with 10+ years of experience in the Australian engineering consulting sector, specifically focusing on water infrastructure in major cities like Brisbane. Aurecon's stated commitment to flexible working, professional development, and wellbeing are significant benefits for operations professionals seeking a balanced and growth-oriented career.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Consulting Engineering & Advisory Services, specializing in infrastructure, property, and energy.

Company Size: Large enterprise (over 5,000 employees globally).

Founded: 1938 (as Rankine & Hill, later merged to form Aurecon).

Team Structure:

• The Queensland Water team operates as a key part of Aurecon's broader national and international water practice.

• This role will likely report to a Director or General Manager within the Queensland operations, with direct oversight of project-specific design teams.

• Collaboration is expected across various Aurecon service lines, including project management, environmental services, asset management, and digital solutions. Methodology:

• Aurecon promotes an "engineering optimist" approach, encouraging innovative thinking and a proactive stance on complex challenges.

• The company emphasizes a data-driven and client-centric methodology, focusing on delivering sustainable and resilient outcomes.

• Design processes are underpinned by a commitment to technical excellence, safety in design, and rigorous quality assurance.

• Digital tools and integrated project delivery methods are increasingly being adopted to enhance efficiency and collaboration.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Aurecon's global presence and long history suggest a stable and reputable employer with established processes. The "engineering optimist" philosophy indicates a forward-thinking culture that embraces innovation and problem-solving. The focus on sustainability and resilience aligns with current industry trends and client expectations for water infrastructure.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior Management / Principal Engineer. This role is a critical leadership position responsible for technical direction and design team management on significant projects. It sits at a level where strategic input and significant decision-making are expected.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will likely report to a Director or General Manager within Aurecon's Queensland operations. They will manage multiple project-specific design teams, which may include lead engineers, discipline engineers, and designers.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's work directly impacts the successful delivery of vital water infrastructure, influencing community resilience, public health, and environmental sustainability. Their technical leadership ensures that projects are designed efficiently, safely, and to the highest quality standards, directly contributing to Aurecon's reputation and revenue generation within the water sector.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific water engineering domains or emerging technologies.

• Leadership Advancement: Progress to higher management roles, such as Director of Water or General Manager, with broader strategic and commercial responsibilities.

• Project Leadership: Lead larger, more complex, or geographically diverse water infrastructure programs.

• Client Relationship Management: Develop into a key client director role, managing strategic client accounts and driving business growth.

• Innovation & R&D: Contribute to Aurecon's innovation agenda, exploring new design methodologies, digital tools, or sustainable solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear pathway for experienced engineers to transition into senior leadership, combining technical expertise with management responsibilities. The growth opportunities are substantial, particularly within Aurecon's strong presence in the Australian infrastructure market.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Aurecon operates modern, collaborative office spaces designed to support both focused work and team interaction. This role is designated as Hybrid, meaning a blend of office-based and remote work is expected.

Office Location(s):

• Brisbane, Queensland: A major hub for Aurecon, likely offering comprehensive facilities and a strong professional community.

• Maroochydore, Queensland: Another significant regional presence, offering opportunities for local engagement and work.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Zones: Offices will feature meeting rooms, breakout areas, and open-plan spaces conducive to multidisciplinary team discussions and design reviews.

• Technology Infrastructure: Access to high-performance computing, advanced design software, and robust network connectivity to support complex modeling and data analysis.

• Team Interaction: Regular opportunities for face-to-face interaction with project teams, senior leadership, and cross-functional colleagues, fostering a strong sense of community and shared purpose.

Work Schedule:

• While the standard is 40 hours per week, the hybrid model offers flexibility.

• Employees are expected to manage their time effectively to meet project deadlines and client commitments, with core hours often established for team collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work model is a key feature, suggesting that candidates should be comfortable with a mix of remote and in-office work. This requires strong self-management skills and the ability to maintain team cohesion across different work locations.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Initial Screening: HR or Talent Acquisition will review applications and conduct a brief introductory call to assess basic qualifications and cultural fit.

2. Hiring Manager Interview: A detailed discussion with the Hiring Manager (likely a Director or Senior Manager) focusing on technical experience, leadership capabilities, and alignment with Aurecon's values. Expect questions about past projects, team management, and problem-solving approaches.

3. Technical/Panel Interview: This may involve a panel of senior engineers or project managers. You may be asked to present a case study from your portfolio, demonstrating your design management process, technical decision-making, and stakeholder engagement skills.

4. Final Interview/Cultural Fit Assessment: A discussion with senior leadership to confirm alignment with Aurecon's culture, strategic goals, and long-term vision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 2-3 of your most impactful projects that best demonstrate your leadership in water infrastructure design.

• Structure for Clarity: For each project, clearly outline:

  • Project scope and objectives.
  • Your specific role and responsibilities.
  • Key challenges (technical, client, team).
  • Your approach to design management, integration, and problem-solving.
  • Quantifiable outcomes (e.g., cost savings, schedule improvements, quality enhancements, successful client delivery).
  • Lessons learned.

• Highlight Leadership: Emphasize how you led, mentored, and coordinated multidisciplinary teams.

• Quantify Impact: Use data and metrics wherever possible to demonstrate the value you delivered.

• Technical Depth: Be prepared to discuss the technical aspects of your projects and demonstrate a strong understanding of water engineering principles.

• Client Focus: Show evidence of successful client relationship management and communication.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Management Scenario: Be ready to discuss how you would approach managing a complex water infrastructure design project with competing priorities, tight deadlines, and diverse stakeholder interests.

• Technical Problem-Solving: Prepare to walk through a challenging technical problem you encountered on a past project and explain your analytical process and solution.

• Team Leadership: Anticipate questions about how you motivate teams, handle conflict, and foster a collaborative environment.

• Safety in Design: Be prepared to discuss your approach to implementing and overseeing safety in design principles.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare a concise and compelling portfolio that showcases tangible results and demonstrates leadership in complex engineering environments. The interview process is likely rigorous, involving multiple stages to assess technical competence, leadership potential, and cultural fit.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD & Design Software: Proficiency with industry-standard CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, Civil 3D) and potentially 3D modeling tools.

• Water Modeling Software: Familiarity with hydraulic modeling software for water distribution, wastewater collection, and treatment processes (e.g., EPANET, InfoWater, WaterGEMS, SWMM).

• Project Management Software: Experience with project management platforms for scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking (e.g., Microsoft Project, Primavera P6).

• Collaboration Platforms: Use of tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for team communication and document sharing.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret technical data and performance metrics from design models and simulations.

• Reporting Tools: Experience generating technical reports, design summaries, and progress updates.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a primary CRM role, understanding client relationship management principles is key.

• Familiarity with Aurecon's internal project management and document control systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific software is not listed, a strong foundation in core engineering design tools and water modeling applications is essential. Experience with project management software and collaboration platforms will be highly beneficial for efficient team coordination in a hybrid environment.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Engineering Excellence: A commitment to delivering high-quality, technically sound, and innovative engineering solutions.

• Client Focus: Building strong, long-term relationships with clients by understanding their needs and delivering exceptional value.

• Collaboration: Working together across disciplines and geographies to achieve shared goals and leverage collective expertise.

• Sustainability & Resilience: Designing infrastructure that is environmentally responsible, socially equitable, and capable of withstanding future challenges.

• Safety: Prioritizing the health and safety of employees, clients, and the community in all aspects of work.

• Integrity: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all business dealings.

Collaboration Style:

• Multidisciplinary Integration: Encouraging open communication and close collaboration between different engineering disciplines to ensure holistic project outcomes.

• Constructive Challenge: Fostering an environment where team members feel empowered to question assumptions, propose alternative solutions, and contribute to continuous improvement.

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

• Client Partnership: Working collaboratively with clients as trusted advisors, building partnerships based on mutual respect and shared objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: Aurecon's stated values emphasize innovation, collaboration, and a strong ethical foundation. Candidates who can demonstrate these qualities in their professional approach will likely align well with the company culture.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Complex Interfaces: Coordinating diverse engineering disciplines (civil, structural, mechanical, electrical, process, environmental) on large-scale water infrastructure projects requires meticulous planning and communication.

• Balancing Competing Priorities: Effectively managing client expectations, project deadlines, budget constraints, and technical requirements simultaneously.

• Navigating Regulatory Landscapes: Ensuring compliance with evolving Australian water industry standards, safety regulations, and environmental legislation.

• Driving Innovation: Encouraging and implementing new technologies or design approaches within a traditionally conservative sector.

• Talent Development: Attracting, retaining, and developing skilled engineering talent in a competitive market.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Access to specialized training in water treatment technologies, hydraulic modeling, and digital engineering tools.

• Leadership Development Programs: Formal programs designed to enhance management, strategic thinking, and client relationship skills.

• Industry Conferences & Events: Opportunities to attend leading water industry events for networking and staying abreast of technological advancements.

• Mentorship: Guidance from experienced senior leaders within Aurecon's extensive network.

• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Working on a variety of project types and collaborating with experts from different fields within Aurecon.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents significant opportunities for professional growth, particularly for those looking to advance into senior leadership within the water infrastructure sector. The challenges are typical of large-scale engineering projects but offer valuable experience and skill development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to leading a multidisciplinary design team on a complex water infrastructure project. How do you ensure alignment and resolve conflicts?" (Focus on your leadership style, communication strategies, and process for managing diverse teams.)

• "Walk us through a challenging technical design problem you encountered on a water or wastewater project. What was your process for analysis and resolution, and what was the outcome?" (Prepare a specific, detailed example showcasing your technical acumen and problem-solving methodology.)

• "How do you partner with Project Managers to ensure design deliverables meet scope, budget, and schedule requirements while maintaining quality?" (Highlight your understanding of project controls and collaborative approach with PMs.)

• "Describe a time you had to influence a client or senior stakeholder on a critical design decision. What was your strategy, and what was the result?" (Focus on your communication, negotiation, and persuasive skills.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Aurecon and this specific Design Manager role?" (Research Aurecon's recent projects, values, and strategic direction. Connect your skills and aspirations to their mission.)

• "How do you foster a culture of innovation and continuous learning within your teams?" (Provide examples of how you encourage new ideas and professional development.)

• "How do you approach Safety in Design and ensure it's integrated throughout the design process?" (Demonstrate your commitment to safety and understanding of relevant principles.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Frame your case studies as compelling narratives that highlight your leadership journey, problem-solving capabilities, and impact.

• Visual Aids: Use clear, concise slides with relevant diagrams, charts, and key metrics. Avoid text-heavy slides.

• Focus on 'Your Role': Clearly articulate your specific contributions and leadership actions, rather than just describing the project.

• Quantify Achievements: Present data-driven results (e.g., % cost savings, schedule acceleration, efficiency improvements, risk reduction).

• Engage the Audience: Be prepared to answer detailed questions about your projects and demonstrate a deep understanding of the technical and managerial aspects.

• Connect to Aurecon: Where possible, subtly link your experience and approach to Aurecon's values and the specific requirements of the role.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare detailed examples that align with the core responsibilities and required skills. Demonstrating a proactive, collaborative, and technically proficient approach will be key to success.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application: Complete the online application form via the provided link, ensuring all sections are filled accurately.

• Tailor your Resume: Highlight your experience in water infrastructure design management, leadership of multidisciplinary teams, project controls, and client engagement. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare your Portfolio: Select 2-3 key projects that best showcase your design leadership, technical expertise, and project delivery success. Be ready to discuss these in detail during interviews.

• Research Aurecon: Familiarize yourself with Aurecon's company values, recent projects in the water sector (especially in Queensland), and their approach to engineering and sustainability.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare answers to common interview questions, focusing on STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions and preparing concise case study presentations.

• Understand the Hybrid Model: Be ready to discuss your experience and expectations regarding hybrid work arrangements and how you ensure productivity and collaboration in such an environment.

⚠️ 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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