EOI - Design Manager - Rail Systems - Major QLD Rail Projects

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager - Rail Systems - Major QLD Rail Projects

Company: UGL Limited

Location: Brisbane, QLD, Australia

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Engineering & Design Management (Rail Infrastructure)

Date Posted: 2026-06-14

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the design coordination and delivery of complex rail systems, with a primary focus on signalling and multi-discipline integration.

• Develop and implement comprehensive design management plans to ensure alignment across various engineering disciplines and project requirements.

• Drive safety in design principles throughout the project lifecycle, facilitating collaborative interdisciplinary design reviews.

• Support bid-phase design development planning and contribute to the strategic setup, structure, and delivery approach of major greenfield rail projects.

• Manage stakeholders effectively, influencing outcomes to ensure design meets project specifications and real-world delivery needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is explicitly for an "Expression of Interest" (EOI), indicating UGL Limited is looking for candidates to shape and lead early-stage design for significant upcoming rail infrastructure projects in South East Queensland. The emphasis on "from day one" and "shape early design strategy" suggests a proactive, foundational role rather than a project execution role. The "10+" years of experience and the focus on signalling and multi-discipline integration point to a senior-level position requiring substantial technical and managerial expertise in rail engineering.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage the end-to-end rail systems design process, ensuring timely and quality delivery.

• Develop, implement, and maintain robust Design Management Plans (DMPs) for major infrastructure projects.

• Coordinate and integrate design efforts across multiple disciplines, including but not limited to signalling, civil, structural, and mechanical engineering.

• Actively participate in and lead safety in design workshops and reviews, ensuring compliance with relevant standards and regulations.

• Collaborate with project delivery teams, construction personnel, and external stakeholders to ensure design is practical, buildable, and meets operational requirements.

• Support the tender and bid process by contributing to design strategy, scope definition, and resource planning.

• Manage design interfaces, resolve complex technical challenges, and ensure seamless integration of different system components.

• Foster a collaborative design environment, promoting knowledge sharing and effective communication among engineering teams.

• Ensure design outcomes align with project objectives, budget constraints, and timelines.

• Contribute to the continuous improvement of design processes and methodologies within UGL's rail division.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical leadership and project management. The emphasis on "safety in design" and "multi-discipline integration" is crucial for large-scale rail projects. The role requires not only technical acumen in rail systems but also strong interpersonal skills for stakeholder management and team coordination.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or a closely related engineering discipline is required. Experience:

• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in rail engineering design, with a significant portion in design management roles.

• Proven track record of successfully managing design for major greenfield rail projects, including experience with signalling systems.

• Demonstrated experience in developing and implementing Design Management Plans (DMPs).

• Experience working with complex interfaces and coordinating multi-discipline engineering teams.

• Familiarity with the full project lifecycle, from bid phase through to construction and commissioning. Required Skills:

• Design Management: Expertise in planning, executing, and overseeing engineering design processes for large-scale infrastructure projects.

• Rail Systems Engineering: In-depth knowledge of rail infrastructure components, with a specialization in signalling systems and their integration.

• Multi-discipline Coordination: Ability to effectively manage and integrate design efforts from various engineering disciplines.

• Stakeholder Management: Proven ability to engage, influence, and manage relationships with diverse stakeholders, including clients, delivery partners, and internal teams.

• Safety in Design: Strong understanding and practical application of safety principles in the design of rail infrastructure (e.g., AS/NZS ISO 31000, relevant rail safety standards).

• Bid-Phase Planning: Experience contributing to design strategies and planning for tender submissions.

• Technical Leadership: Ability to provide clear technical direction and guidance to engineering teams.

• Problem-Solving: Aptitude for identifying and resolving complex technical and project-related challenges.

Preferred Skills:

• Advanced degree in a relevant engineering field or project management.

• Experience with specific rail signalling technologies and standards (e.g., ETCS, CBTC, interlocking systems).

• Familiarity with project management methodologies (e.g., PRINCE2, Agile).

• Experience with Australian rail industry standards and regulatory frameworks.

• Proficiency in relevant design and project management software.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "10+" years experience and the specific mention of "Electrical, Mechatronics or similar engineering discipline" are key. The role demands not just technical knowledge but also the ability to manage complex design processes and influence outcomes, making stakeholder management and bid-phase planning critical skills.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Management Plans: Examples of DMPs developed for major rail or infrastructure projects, showcasing scope, methodology, and risk management.

• System Integration Case Studies: Demonstrations of how complex rail systems (especially signalling) were integrated across multiple disciplines, highlighting challenges overcome and solutions implemented.

• Design Review Documentation: Samples of contributions to or leadership of interdisciplinary design reviews, focusing on safety, buildability, and compliance.

• Stakeholder Engagement Records: Evidence of successful stakeholder management, including communication plans, meeting minutes, and resolution of interface issues.

• Project Delivery Alignment: Examples illustrating how design outcomes were aligned with construction and operational requirements, demonstrating a practical, buildable approach.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Documentation showcasing the design of engineering workflows, process improvements implemented, and the resulting efficiencies.

• System Implementation Standards: Evidence of establishing and adhering to standards for the implementation of rail systems design, ensuring consistency and quality.

• Performance Analysis: Examples of how design processes were measured, analyzed for effectiveness, and refined based on performance data and project feedback.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role, a portfolio is crucial. It should highlight not just technical design work but also the management processes, collaboration, and strategic planning involved. Candidates should be prepared to showcase how they've managed complex design interfaces and ensured designs are practical for delivery.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Given the seniority of the role (10+ years experience), the strategic importance of major rail projects in Queensland, and the on-site nature of the position in Brisbane CBD, a competitive salary package is expected. Based on industry benchmarks for Senior Design Managers in infrastructure projects in Australia, a typical range for this role would likely fall between AUD $180,000 - $250,000 per annum, potentially higher for exceptional candidates with extensive relevant experience.

Benefits:

• OneRewards Discount Program: Access to a range of discounts on various goods and services.

• Discounted Medibank Health Insurance: Subsidized health insurance options through Medibank.

• Wellness Program with AIA Vitality: Participation in a program encouraging health and well-being, potentially with rewards.

• 16 Weeks Paid Primary Parental Leave: Generous parental leave policy for primary caregivers.

• Complimentary Salary Continuance Insurance: Insurance to provide income protection in case of extended illness or injury.

• Individual Development Plan (IDP): Structured support for career growth, skill development, and professional advancement.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for ongoing training, certifications, and participation in industry conferences.

• Superannuation: Standard employer contributions to superannuation (Australia's retirement savings scheme).

Working Hours:

• This is a full-time, permanent position.

• Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week.

• While the role is on-site, some flexibility may be available depending on project needs and team coordination, though core business hours will be expected for effective collaboration and stakeholder engagement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on typical compensation for senior engineering management roles in Australia's infrastructure sector. The specific salary will depend on the candidate's experience, qualifications, and negotiation. The listed benefits are comprehensive and align with those offered by large, established companies in the construction and engineering sector.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry:

UGL Limited operates within the Engineering, Construction, Operations, and Maintenance sectors, with a strong focus on Rail & Transport, Communications, Oil & Gas, Power, Renewables, Resources, Water, and Defence. Their involvement in major transport infrastructure projects, like the South East Queensland greenfield rail project, places them at the forefront of developing critical public and private assets. As part of the CIMIC Group, UGL benefits from the stability and resources of a large, diversified conglomerate.

Company Size:

UGL Limited is a significant player in the Australian market, employing a substantial workforce. As part of CIMIC Group, which is one of the world's leading contractors, UGL has access to extensive resources, technical expertise, and a broad network. This size provides job security and opportunities for career advancement while maintaining a focus on specialized engineering capabilities.

Founded:

While the specific founding date of UGL Limited is not provided, its long-standing presence and reputation in the Australian market suggest decades of operational history. Being part of the CIMIC Group, which has a history spanning over a century, adds to UGL's established credibility and experience in delivering complex projects.

Team Structure:

• Operations Team Aspect: The Design Manager will likely lead a dedicated design team or manage design resources across multiple specialized engineering teams (e.g., signalling, civil, systems). This team will be instrumental in shaping the early stages of major rail projects.

• Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will likely report to a Project Director or a Senior Engineering Manager, with direct oversight of design leads and engineers within their domain.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: This role necessitates extensive collaboration with project management, construction, procurement, safety, and client representatives to ensure cohesive project delivery.

Methodology:

• Data Analysis & Insights: Design decisions will be informed by technical data, feasibility studies, and risk assessments. The Design Manager will ensure that design proposals are data-driven and aligned with project objectives.

• Workflow Planning & Optimization: A key aspect of the role involves defining and refining design workflows to maximize efficiency, ensure quality, and manage interfaces effectively.

• Automation & Efficiency: While not explicitly stated, modern engineering practices often involve leveraging digital tools and automation to streamline design processes, improve collaboration, and reduce errors.

Company Website:

https://www.ugllimited.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: UGL's position as a major engineering and infrastructure provider, coupled with its parent company CIMIC Group, signifies a stable and resource-rich environment. The role's focus on early-stage design for significant rail projects emphasizes its strategic importance within the company's pipeline.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level:

This role represents a senior leadership position within the engineering and design domain. It is positioned at a level where individuals are expected to provide strategic direction, manage significant technical scope, and influence project outcomes. It's a step beyond a pure technical specialist, requiring strong management and leadership capabilities.

Reporting Structure:

The Design Manager will likely report to a Project Director or a Senior Engineering Manager, overseeing a team of multi-discipline engineers and design specialists. This structure allows for strategic alignment with overall project goals while maintaining focus on technical design execution.

Operations Impact:

The Design Manager's output directly shapes the foundational technical strategy and execution of major rail projects. Their work impacts project feasibility, safety, constructability, long-term operational efficiency, and ultimately, the success and profitability of these significant infrastructure investments for UGL and its clients.

Growth Opportunities:

• Project Director/Manager: Progression to lead entire projects, taking on broader commercial, contractual, and delivery responsibilities.

• Senior Engineering Leadership: Moving into roles such as Chief Engineer or Head of Engineering for a specific sector or major program, overseeing multiple projects and teams.

• Specialized Technical Expertise: Deepening expertise in a niche area of rail systems design or a related field, becoming a recognized subject matter expert.

• Strategic Planning & Business Development: Contributing to UGL's strategic planning, bid strategy, and business development efforts within the rail and infrastructure sectors.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Expression of Interest" nature of this role suggests that UGL is looking for individuals who can not only manage current projects but also contribute to shaping future design strategies and potentially build out design capabilities. This implies a strong potential for career growth and impact within the organization.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type:

The role is based in Brisbane's CBD, indicating a professional office environment within a major urban center. This typically involves collaborative office spaces designed to foster teamwork and communication among engineering and project management staff.

Office Location(s):

Brisbane CBD & Inner Suburbs, Queensland, Australia. This central location offers accessibility via public transport and proximity to various amenities.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The office setup is likely designed to facilitate interaction between different departments and project teams, essential for a role that bridges design and delivery.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to industry-standard engineering design software (e.g., CAD, BIM, simulation tools), project management platforms, and communication tools will be provided.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for daily interaction with fellow engineers, project managers, and other key project personnel will be abundant, promoting a dynamic and engaging work environment.

Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time hours (approximately 40 hours per week) are expected.

• While the role is primarily office-based, there may be occasional requirements for site visits to project locations for reviews or coordination.

• Flexibility may be offered, but adherence to project timelines and stakeholder availability will be paramount.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "on-site" and "Brisbane's CBD" suggests a traditional office-based role. The description of the role as "hands-on leadership" and "shape early design strategy" implies a need for close collaboration and presence to influence decisions from the outset.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Initial Screening: Review of CV and Expression of Interest, assessing alignment with the core requirements and experience.

2. Competency-Based Interview: An interview focusing on behavioural questions to assess leadership, stakeholder management, problem-solving, and experience in managing complex design processes.

3. Technical Assessment/Case Study: Candidates may be asked to discuss a hypothetical design challenge, present a past project in detail, or complete a technical exercise related to rail systems design or management. This is where portfolio elements would be discussed.

4. Stakeholder/Manager Interview: Meeting with senior leadership (e.g., Project Director, Head of Engineering) to assess strategic fit, cultural alignment, and overall suitability for the role.

5. Final Offer: Following successful completion of all stages.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Design Leadership: Showcase projects where you led design teams, managed multiple disciplines, and were accountable for design outcomes.

• Demonstrate Process Management: Present examples of Design Management Plans, workflow optimization, and risk mitigation strategies you've implemented.

• Focus on Signalling & Integration: Clearly articulate your experience with signalling systems and how you've managed their integration with other rail infrastructure components.

• Quantify Achievements: Where possible, use metrics to demonstrate the impact of your work (e.g., cost savings through efficient design, reduction in design-related RFI's, successful bid contributions).

• Stakeholder Management Examples: Be prepared to discuss specific instances of managing difficult stakeholders or complex interface negotiations.

• Safety in Design Emphasis: Provide concrete examples of how you embedded safety into the design process and facilitated effective reviews.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Prepare for questions asking how you would approach specific design challenges, manage competing priorities, or resolve conflicts within a design team or with stakeholders.

• Technical Scenario: Be ready to discuss the design considerations for a new dual-track rail line, tunnels, or stations, focusing on signalling integration and safety.

• Presentation Skills: Practice articulating complex technical concepts and project management strategies clearly and concisely, as you may need to present your portfolio or case studies.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given this is an EOI for a significant role, the interview process will likely be rigorous, focusing heavily on demonstrating past success in managing complex, multi-discipline rail design projects and influencing key outcomes. The portfolio is not just a document but a tool to guide discussions on experience and capability.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD/BIM Software: Proficiency with industry-standard tools such as AutoCAD, Revit, Civil 3D, or similar platforms used for detailed design and modelling.

• Design Management Platforms: Experience with tools for document control, workflow management, and collaboration (e.g., Aconex, Procore, BIM 360).

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with tools like Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or similar for planning, scheduling, and tracking design progress.

• Collaboration Tools: Proficiency in platforms like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for team communication and coordination.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Design Metrics Tracking: Ability to define, track, and report on key design performance indicators (KPIs) such as RFI rates, design completion status, compliance adherence, and budget adherence.

• Risk Management Tools: Experience with software or methodologies for identifying, assessing, and managing design risks.

• Reporting Dashboards: Ability to utilize or contribute to dashboards for visualising design progress and project status for stakeholders.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design interfaces with client requirements and contractual obligations is key. Experience with systems that manage contractual documentation and client communication (e.g., contract management software) would be beneficial.

• Familiarity with automation in design processes, such as script-based design generation or automated drawing checks, would be advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific software isn't listed, a Design Manager in rail infrastructure would be expected to be highly proficient in industry-standard CAD/BIM tools and project/document management systems common in large-scale engineering projects. The ability to leverage technology for efficiency and collaboration is implied.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: A paramount value, emphasizing the critical importance of safety in all design and project execution activities.

• Integrity & Ethics: Upholding high standards of honesty, transparency, and ethical conduct in all dealings.

• Excellence: Striving for high-quality outcomes, technical innovation, and continuous improvement in processes and delivery.

• Collaboration: Promoting teamwork, open communication, and mutual respect across all levels and disciplines.

• Accountability: Taking ownership of responsibilities, delivering on commitments, and driving successful project outcomes.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Encouraging seamless interaction and information flow between design teams, construction, project management, and other support functions.

• Proactive Communication: Emphasizing clear, timely, and transparent communication with all project stakeholders to manage expectations and resolve issues efficiently.

• Constructive Feedback Culture: Fostering an environment where feedback is welcomed and used for continuous improvement of designs and processes.

• Problem-Solving Partnership: Working collaboratively with delivery teams to find practical solutions to design and construction challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: UGL's emphasis on safety, integrity, and excellence, as part of the CIMIC Group, suggests a corporate culture that values professional conduct, robust project delivery, and a commitment to employee well-being and development.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complexity of Rail Systems: Managing the intricate interdependencies of signalling, power, communications, and civil infrastructure on major projects.

• Stakeholder Alignment: Navigating diverse stakeholder interests and ensuring consensus on design decisions.

• Pace of Greenfield Projects: The demanding timelines and fast-paced nature of large-scale greenfield developments require efficient design management.

• Technical Evolution: Keeping abreast of new technologies and standards in rail engineering and integrating them effectively into designs.

• Balancing Design vs. Delivery: Ensuring designs are not only technically sound but also practical, cost-effective, and constructible within project constraints.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Leadership Development Programs: Access to UGL's or CIMIC Group's structured programs for leadership and management skill enhancement.

• Technical Specialization: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific rail systems (e.g., advanced signalling, automation) through training and project involvement.

• Industry Certifications: Support for obtaining or maintaining relevant professional engineering certifications and memberships.

• Mentorship: Guidance from experienced senior engineers and project directors within the organization.

• Exposure to Major Projects: Gaining invaluable experience on some of Queensland's most significant infrastructure developments.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant challenges due to the scale and complexity of the projects, but these challenges are directly tied to substantial growth opportunities in technical expertise, leadership, and career progression within a major infrastructure company.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Strategy: "How would you approach establishing the design strategy for a new greenfield rail corridor, considering signalling, power, and civil integration from the outset?" (Prepare to discuss phased planning, risk assessment, and stakeholder involvement.)

• Stakeholder Management: "Describe a time you had to manage conflicting stakeholder requirements on a complex engineering project. What was your approach, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on communication, negotiation, and finding mutually agreeable solutions.)

• Problem-Solving: "Imagine a critical design element for a major rail station is found to be unbuildable due to unforeseen site conditions. What steps would you take as Design Manager?" (Emphasize rapid assessment, collaboration with site teams, design modification, and communication.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracts you to UGL and this specific Expression of Interest for major rail projects in Queensland?" (Research UGL's recent projects, values, and CIMIC Group's mission.)

• "How do you foster a culture of safety in design within your teams?" (Discuss safety frameworks, review processes, and team accountability.)

• "How do you ensure design outcomes align with the broader project objectives and delivery requirements?" (Talk about collaboration with construction and project management.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project in your portfolio, clearly articulate the challenge, your role and approach, the solution implemented, and the quantifiable results.

• Focus on Management: Highlight your responsibilities in managing design teams, budgets, schedules, and stakeholders, not just the technical design itself.

• Showcase Integration: Use diagrams or examples to illustrate how you managed the integration of signalling with other rail systems.

• Demonstrate Safety Leadership: Present examples of your involvement in safety reviews and how you ensured safety principles were embedded in the design.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Be ready to answer detailed questions about any project or process you present.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to discuss their experience not just technically, but also in terms of leadership, strategic thinking, and influencing outcomes within a large project environment. The EOI nature means they are looking for someone who can proactively shape the project's design direction.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your experience in rail systems design management, specifically mentioning signalling, multi-discipline coordination, safety in design, and stakeholder engagement. Quantify achievements wherever possible.

• Craft a Compelling EOI Statement: Clearly articulate your interest in shaping early-stage design for major rail projects and how your 10+ years of experience align with the role's strategic and leadership demands.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Organize examples of Design Management Plans, system integration case studies, safety review contributions, and stakeholder management scenarios. Be ready to discuss these in detail.

• Research UGL: Understand UGL's recent projects, values, and its position within the CIMIC Group. Prepare to discuss how your approach aligns with their operational philosophy and commitment to safety and excellence.

⚠️ 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.