Design Manager - Water / Wastewater Design

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager - Water / Wastewater Design Company: Brown and Caldwell Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States Job Type: FULL_TIME Category: Engineering (Water/Wastewater Design Management) Date Posted: May 13, 2026 Experience Level: 5-10 years

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the design delivery for major and complex water and wastewater infrastructure projects, ensuring high-quality outputs and client satisfaction.
• Manage the planning, execution, and tracking of design projects, collaborating closely with Project Managers to achieve project timelines and milestones.
• Provide strong technical leadership and guidance to design teams, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement in design processes.
• Oversee design resource allocation, utilization, and quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) management to ensure efficient and effective project delivery.
• Enhance and maintain strong relationships with existing clients, acting as a key point of contact for design-related aspects of projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a key leadership position within the design function, specifically for water and wastewater projects. The emphasis on "largest and most complex" projects, along with client relationship management, indicates a senior-level role requiring significant technical expertise and strategic oversight. The hybrid work arrangement with a requirement to be in the Philadelphia office a couple of days per week is a critical detail for candidates.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Provide comprehensive technical leadership throughout the entire design process for water and wastewater treatment facilities and related infrastructure.
• Lead and coordinate multi-disciplinary design teams, ensuring seamless collaboration and efficient execution of design tasks to meet project goals.
• Partner with Project Managers (PMs) to develop, implement, and meticulously track design scopes, project schedules, and budgets, ensuring adherence to financial and temporal constraints.
• Manage design resources effectively, optimizing utilization and ensuring that personnel are aligned with project needs and skill requirements.
• Oversee the creation, submission, and revision of all design deliverables, ensuring they meet stringent project specifications, client requirements, and regulatory standards.
• Help develop and implement robust design quality assurance (QA) and quality control (QC) management programs to mitigate risks and ensure the integrity of design outputs.
• Manage design deliverables from inception through to final submission, ensuring alignment with contractual obligations and project success criteria.
• Adapt to evolving project needs and company requirements, executing various additional assignments with flexibility and a proactive approach.
• Provide mentorship and guidance to less experienced engineers and designers, fostering their professional development and knowledge sharing within the team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical expertise, project management support, team leadership, and client interaction. The explicit mention of QA/QC and resource management points to a focus on process efficiency and risk mitigation within the design lifecycle. The mentorship aspect suggests a role in developing future talent within Brown and Caldwell's engineering divisions.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: A bachelor’s degree in engineering (Civil, Environmental, Mechanical) or architecture is required. A Master's degree in a related engineering field (Mechanical, Civil, or Environmental Engineering) is preferred. Experience: Typically requires a minimum of 5 years of professional experience, with 2 to 3 years of dedicated experience in design management. A Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) certification is mandatory.

Required Skills:

• Strong ability in design process leadership to achieve project goals and ensure high-quality engineering outputs.
• Deep technical expertise in water and wastewater treatment processes, infrastructure design, and relevant engineering principles.
• Proven ability to provide strong technical leadership and guidance to engineering and design teams.
• Skilled in design resource management, ensuring optimal utilization and efficient allocation of personnel.
• Proficiency in overseeing and implementing design Quality Assurance (QA) and Quality Control (QC) processes.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively with Project Managers on scope, schedule, and budget development.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, with the capability to prepare technical reports and conduct effective presentations.

Preferred Skills:

• 8+ years of progressively increasing responsibility in engineering design and management.
• Demonstrated strong project management skills, including planning, execution, and monitoring.
• Ability to balance client needs with multiple priorities, including design, bidding, and construction management services.
• Strong technical writing skills for proposals, reports, and design documentation.
• Successful experience in marketing, proposal writing, proposal management, and public presentations.
• Experience with various engineering software and design tools relevant to water/wastewater projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The mandatory PE license and specific degree requirements underscore the technical rigor expected. The distinction between required and preferred experience levels (5 years minimum vs. 8+ preferred) suggests flexibility in assessing candidates, with a clear emphasis on practical design management experience. The inclusion of marketing and proposal skills indicates a GTM-adjacent component to client relationship management.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase examples of leading complex water and wastewater design projects from inception to completion, detailing the scope and challenges.
• Provide evidence of successful resource management and team coordination, illustrating how efficient utilization was achieved.
• Present case studies demonstrating robust QA/QC processes implemented and their impact on design quality and risk mitigation.
• Illustrate experience in client interaction, proposal development, and presentation of design solutions to stakeholders.

Process Documentation:

• Detail the methodologies used for planning and executing design projects, including scope definition, scheduling, and budgeting.
• Document experience in managing design deliverables, highlighting processes for creation, review, submission, and revision.
• Showcase experience with QA/QC protocols, including risk assessment, peer reviews, and compliance checks within the design lifecycle.
• Demonstrate understanding of how design processes integrate with broader project management and construction phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role, a portfolio is critical. It should not just list projects but demonstrate the candidate's leadership in the process of design, their ability to manage resources effectively, and their commitment to quality control. The emphasis should be on how they managed projects, not just what projects they managed.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: The anticipated starting pay range for this position in Philadelphia, PA is $142,000 - $194,000 annually. This range is subject to adjustment based on the employee's primary work location, skills, experience, and education.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Short-term and long-term disability coverage, along with life insurance.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for support services.
• Generous paid time off (PTO) and parental leave.
• Paid holidays for work-life balance.
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with employer match to support long-term financial goals.
• Eligibility for performance-based bonuses, recognizing contributions to company success.
• Employee referral bonuses, encouraging team growth.
• Tuition reimbursement to support continuous learning and professional development.
• Additional benefits include pet insurance and long-term care insurance.

Working Hours: The standard working hours for this full-time position are assumed to be 40 hours per week, typical for engineering roles. The hybrid arrangement allows for flexibility, with a requirement to be present in the Philadelphia office a couple of days per week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is specific to a "Location B" which is stated to be Philadelphia. The detailed benefits package is extensive, indicating a strong focus on employee well-being and professional development, which is a key attractor for experienced engineering professionals.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Environmental Engineering and Construction Services. Brown and Caldwell operates within a sector focused on sustainable solutions for water, wastewater, and broader environmental challenges, serving municipal, industrial, and government clients. Company Size: Over 2,100 professionals across 50 offices in North America and the Pacific. This size indicates a well-established, large-scale organization with significant project capacity and a broad geographic reach. Founded: Over 75 years ago. This long history suggests stability, deep industry expertise, and a proven track record of delivering complex environmental solutions.

Team Structure:

• The operations team likely consists of specialized engineers and designers focused on water and wastewater projects, working within larger project teams led by Project Managers.
• Reporting structure is likely hierarchical, with Design Managers reporting to senior engineering leadership or divisional heads, and in turn, managing design engineers and drafters.
• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, involving close partnerships with Project Managers, discipline leads, construction teams, and client representatives.

Methodology:

• Data analysis and insights are crucial for informed design decisions, performance tracking, and client reporting.
• Workflow planning and optimization strategies are employed to manage design processes efficiently, ensuring timely and budget-conscious project delivery.
• Automation and efficiency practices are likely integrated into design workflows where possible to enhance productivity and accuracy.

Company Website: www.brownandcaldwell.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Brown and Caldwell's long history and substantial employee base suggest a culture that values experience, stability, and professional growth. The company's focus on environmental solutions aligns with a mission-driven approach, which can be a significant motivator for employees in this sector. The "company of choice" ethos points to a strong emphasis on client service and employee satisfaction.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior-level position within the engineering design function. It sits above individual contributor engineers and junior design leads, focusing on managing the technical and resource aspects of complex design projects and contributing to client relationship management. It requires a blend of deep technical expertise and leadership acumen. Reporting Structure: Design Managers typically report to a Director of Engineering, a Senior Project Manager, or a Practice Leader within a specific discipline (e.g., Water Resources). They will lead and mentor a team of design engineers and drafters. Operations Impact: The role has a direct and significant impact on project success by ensuring the technical integrity, cost-effectiveness, and timely delivery of water and wastewater designs. This directly influences client satisfaction, future business opportunities, and the company's reputation for delivering high-quality environmental solutions.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas of water or wastewater treatment technology, becoming a recognized subject matter expert (SME) within the firm.
• Project Management: Transition into full Project Management roles, taking complete ownership of project delivery, client relationships, and financial performance.
• Leadership Development: Advance into higher leadership positions such as Practice Leader, Department Manager, or Principal Engineer, influencing firm-wide strategy and technical direction.
• Business Development: Grow capabilities in proposal writing, client engagement, and marketing to contribute more significantly to acquiring new projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for a Design Manager at a firm like Brown and Caldwell offers clear trajectories toward both deeper technical specialization and broader project/business leadership. The emphasis on client-facing activities and business development suggests opportunities to move into roles with greater commercial responsibility.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is designated as "Hybrid," requiring the employee to work from the Philadelphia office a couple of days per week. This suggests a professional office environment designed for collaboration, client meetings, and focused work. Office Location(s): Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Specific details about office amenities, accessibility, and proximity to public transportation or major roadways would be beneficial for candidates.

Workspace Context:

• The Philadelphia office likely provides a collaborative workspace with access to necessary design software and hardware.
• Opportunities for interaction with other engineering disciplines and project teams within the office will be present, fostering a dynamic work environment.
• The hybrid model allows for a balance between in-office collaboration and remote work flexibility, catering to different work styles and needs.

Work Schedule: Standard 40-hour work week, with flexibility potentially offered around the specific days in the office, as long as core project needs and collaboration requirements are met. The nature of design projects may sometimes necessitate working beyond standard hours to meet critical deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "couple of days/week" hybrid requirement is specific and important. Candidates should understand that while there's flexibility, consistent in-office presence for collaboration is expected. The Philadelphia location anchors the role geographically.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A recruiter or HR representative will likely conduct an initial phone screen to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.
• Hiring Manager Interview: An interview with the hiring manager (likely a senior engineering leader or Practice Leader) to delve deeper into technical expertise, design management philosophy, project experience, and leadership style.
• Technical/Team Interview: A session with potential team members or peers (other Design Managers, senior engineers) to evaluate technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and collaborative fit within the engineering team.
• Portfolio Review/Presentation: A dedicated session where candidates present selected projects from their portfolio, detailing their role, design process, challenges, solutions, and outcomes. This is a critical part of assessing design management capabilities.
• Final Interview/Offer: Potentially a final interview with a senior executive or HR for final approval, followed by an offer.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Select High-Impact Projects: Choose 2-3 water/wastewater design projects that best showcase your leadership in complex challenges, technical problem-solving, and successful delivery.
• Structure Your Presentation: For each project, clearly outline the problem/objective, your specific role and responsibilities, the design process/methodology used, key challenges and how they were overcome, the technologies/tools employed, and the final outcomes/impact (e.g., cost savings, efficiency improvements, successful commissioning).
• Quantify Results: Wherever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the impact of your work (e.g., "reduced design time by 15%," "achieved 10% cost savings," "met all regulatory compliance standards").
• Highlight Leadership & Collaboration: Emphasize your role in leading teams, coordinating with stakeholders, managing resources, and fostering a collaborative design environment.
• Be Prepared for Technical Questions: Anticipate in-depth questions about specific design elements, QA/QC procedures, and engineering challenges encountered.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Scenario: Be prepared for a hypothetical design challenge or a case study related to a water/wastewater project. Focus on your approach to defining the problem, identifying constraints, developing potential solutions, and outlining a plan for execution.
• Process Improvement: Think about how you would improve an existing design process or address a common issue in design project management.
• Leadership Scenarios: Prepare for behavioral questions about how you handle team conflict, motivate a team, manage underperforming individuals, or make difficult technical decisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on portfolio review for this role is paramount. Candidates should prepare a presentation that goes beyond simply listing projects; it needs to tell a story about their leadership, problem-solving skills, and process management capabilities within the context of water and wastewater design.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency with industry-standard Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software such as AutoCAD, Civil 3D, Bentley MicroStation, or similar platforms for creating detailed engineering drawings and models.
• Design & Analysis Software: Familiarity with specialized water and wastewater modeling and design software (e.g., HEC-RAS, EPANET, Bentley WaterGEMS/SewerGEMS, Autodesk Revit for BIM where applicable).
• Project Management Software: Experience with project management tools for scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking (e.g., Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Asana, Jira).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret project data, performance metrics, and financial reports. Familiarity with tools like Microsoft Excel for data manipulation and analysis.
• Reporting Platforms: Experience in generating technical reports, progress updates, and design documentation for clients and internal stakeholders.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: While not a primary sales role, understanding how design projects integrate with client relationship management systems (e.g., Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics) might be beneficial for tracking client interactions and project pipelines.
• Collaboration Platforms: Effective use of collaboration tools like Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, or similar platforms for team communication, document sharing, and workflow management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The specific software mentioned is critical. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their proficiency with CAD and specialized water/wastewater design/modeling software. Project management and collaboration tools are also essential for managing complex, multi-disciplinary projects.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Client Service Excellence: A commitment to understanding and exceeding client expectations through high-quality design and responsive communication.
• Technical Rigor & Innovation: Upholding high standards of engineering practice while embracing new technologies and innovative solutions for environmental challenges.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive and cooperative environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and collective problem-solving is encouraged.
• Integrity & Accountability: Operating with honesty, transparency, and taking ownership of project outcomes and commitments.
• Sustainability & Environmental Stewardship: A dedication to creating sustainable solutions that benefit communities and the environment.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively engaging with project managers, discipline engineers, construction teams, and support staff to ensure cohesive project execution.
• Open Communication: Encouraging transparent communication channels, where feedback is readily shared and constructive dialogue is prioritized.
• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting a culture of learning where team members share expertise, best practices, and lessons learned to elevate the collective capabilities of the design team.

📝 Enhancement Note: Brown and Caldwell's emphasis on being the "company of choice" suggests a culture that values employee growth, satisfaction, and client dedication. The core values likely reflect a commitment to technical excellence, environmental responsibility, and strong interpersonal relationships.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Complex Projects: Coordinating numerous stakeholders, tight deadlines, and intricate technical requirements on large-scale water/wastewater projects.
• Resource Constraints: Optimizing design team performance and resource allocation when facing budget limitations or personnel shortages.
• Evolving Regulations & Technology: Staying abreast of changing environmental regulations and rapidly advancing design technologies to maintain cutting-edge solutions.
• Client Expectations: Balancing diverse client needs and expectations with project constraints and technical feasibility.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Access to specialized courses and certifications in water/wastewater engineering, design software, and project management methodologies.
• Leadership Development Programs: Opportunities to enhance leadership, communication, and business development skills through formal training and mentorship.
• Industry Conferences & Networking: Participation in professional conferences and events to stay current with industry trends, network with peers, and represent Brown and Caldwell.
• Mentorship Programs: Formal or informal mentorship relationships with senior leaders to gain insights and guidance for career advancement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for senior design management roles, particularly in complex engineering fields. The growth opportunities are well-defined, emphasizing both technical deepening and leadership expansion, which aligns with the career path analysis.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex water/wastewater design project you managed. What were the biggest challenges, and how did you overcome them? What was your specific role in ensuring success?" (Focus on process, leadership, and problem-solving.)
• "How do you approach resource management and allocation for large design teams? What strategies do you use to ensure efficient utilization and meet project deadlines?" (Highlight planning, tracking, and motivational skills.)
• "Walk us through your process for ensuring design quality assurance and quality control on a major project. What specific steps do you take to mitigate risks?" (Demonstrate understanding of QA/QC protocols and risk management.)
• "How do you balance client needs and expectations with project constraints (budget, schedule, technical feasibility)?" (Showcase negotiation, communication, and strategic thinking.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in Brown and Caldwell, and what specifically about our work in water/wastewater design appeals to you?" (Research company mission, values, and recent projects.)
• "How do you foster a collaborative and supportive environment within your design teams?" (Connect to company values and your leadership style.)
• "How do you stay current with advancements in water/wastewater design technology and regulations?" (Demonstrate commitment to continuous learning.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Frame your project presentations as compelling narratives that highlight your journey through the design process, emphasizing your problem-solving and leadership contributions.
• Visual Aids: Use clear, concise slides with diagrams, charts, and minimal text. Ensure visuals are professional and support your points without being overwhelming.
• Focus on "Your" Role: Clearly articulate your specific contributions, decisions, and leadership actions, rather than just describing the project team's overall work.
• Prepare for Q&A: Anticipate deep technical questions related to your projects and be ready to discuss design decisions, trade-offs, and alternative approaches.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating not just technical knowledge but also leadership, process management, and client-facing capabilities. The portfolio presentation is a key opportunity to showcase these skills in action.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Brown and Caldwell careers portal.
• Tailor your resume: Highlight your experience in water/wastewater design management, technical leadership, QA/QC implementation, and client interaction. Use keywords from the job description where applicable.
• Prepare your portfolio: Select 2-3 impactful projects that best demonstrate your design leadership, resource management, and problem-solving skills. Outline your presentation strategy, focusing on quantifiable results and your specific contributions.
• Research Brown and Caldwell: Understand their company mission, values, recent projects, and their position in the environmental engineering industry. Be ready to articulate why you are a good fit for their culture.
• Practice your interview responses: Prepare for behavioral and technical questions, focusing on specific examples from your experience that showcase your skills and leadership potential. Rehearse your portfolio presentation.

⚠️ 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.