Head of Design Engineering (w/m/d)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Head of Design Engineering (w/m/d)

Company: Bilfinger

Location: Puch bei Hallein, Salzburg, Austria

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Engineering Leadership / Design Engineering

Date Posted: 2026-08-24

Experience Level: 10+ years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and strategically develop the Engineering department, ensuring technical excellence and alignment with Bilfinger Life Science's corporate objectives.

• Provide comprehensive technical and disciplinary leadership to the engineering team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.

• Drive the implementation of engineering strategies, standards, and best practices, with a focus on standardization, modularization, and digital engineering initiatives.

• Oversee project execution from concept to completion, ensuring adherence to quality, cost, schedule, compliance, GMP, and HSEQ requirements.

• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including project management, procurement, manufacturing, and business development, to ensure seamless project delivery and business growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a senior leadership position within the engineering function, specifically focusing on Design Engineering within the Bilfinger Life Science division. The emphasis on GMP, HSEQ, and pharmaceutical/biopharmaceutical process technology indicates a highly regulated and specialized industrial environment. The role requires a blend of technical expertise, strategic vision, and strong people management skills to drive departmental efficiency and project success.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Assume overall responsibility for the Engineering department, including technical, organizational, and disciplinary leadership of all engineering personnel.

• Provide technical direction and strategic advancement for all engineering disciplines within the organization.

• Develop and implement the overarching engineering strategy in close alignment with the corporate goals of Bilfinger Life Science.

• Ensure efficient collaboration and manage interfaces with Project Management, Procurement, Manufacturing, Construction, Commissioning, and other relevant business units.

• Guarantee strict adherence to all quality, cost, schedule, and compliance mandates, as well as all applicable GMP and HSEQ regulations.

• Continuously develop and refine engineering standards, governance structures, processes, and best practices to uphold technical excellence.

• Champion and drive initiatives for standardization, modularization, and digital engineering to optimize workflows and project outcomes.

• Manage resource allocation, capacity planning, and competency development, including personnel development, performance management, and succession planning.

• Actively support Sales and Business Development teams during the tendering, conceptualization, and acquisition phases of projects.

• Provide technical leadership and support for the successful execution of EPC/EPCM projects.

• Foster a strong culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and cross-departmental collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong focus on process optimization, standardization, and the adoption of digital engineering tools. This suggests an expectation for the candidate to not only manage existing operations but also to actively drive transformative change within the engineering function. The emphasis on GMP and HSEQ compliance is critical for this industry and requires a deep understanding of regulatory frameworks.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Successfully completed university degree in Process Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology, or a comparable technical field.

Experience: Several years of professional experience and leadership with technical and disciplinary responsibility in engineering organizations, ideally in the field of process and plant engineering or process and plant technology.

Required Skills:

• Proven expertise in pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical process and plant technology, including comprehensive knowledge of ultrapure water (Reinstwasser) systems.

• Strong capabilities in strategic team leadership, communication, organizational development, and change management.

• High social and interpersonal competence with experience in mentoring, developing, and retaining employees.

• Demonstrated enthusiasm for digital technologies and Digital Engineering, with a keen interest in innovations and future-oriented solutions.

• Independent, structured, and results-oriented work approach with a high level of quality and responsibility awareness.

• Fluent command of German and English, both written and spoken.

• High integrity, discretion, and reliability in handling sensitive information and demanding stakeholders.

• Strong problem-solving orientation and the ability to make pragmatic and sustainable decisions. Preferred Skills:

• Experience in EPC/EPCM project environments.

• Familiarity with international project execution.

• Expertise in process optimization methodologies.

• Knowledge of industrial services and the process industry value chain.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for specific expertise in pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical process technology, particularly ultrapure water systems, points to a niche but critical area of focus for Bilfinger Life Science. The blend of technical and soft skills, including change management and digital engineering enthusiasm, suggests a need for a forward-thinking leader capable of navigating complex technical and organizational landscapes.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase successful implementation of engineering strategies that led to measurable improvements in project delivery timelines and cost efficiencies.

• Provide examples of how you have developed and standardized engineering processes, including documentation and workflow optimization, within previous roles.

• Present case studies demonstrating your leadership in implementing new technologies or digital engineering tools to enhance design and project execution.

• Detail your experience in managing engineering resources and capacity, highlighting how you ensured optimal team performance and skill development.

• Include examples of your involvement in the tendering and acquisition phases, demonstrating your ability to contribute to business development through technical expertise. Process Documentation:

• Evidence of developing and implementing robust engineering governance structures and compliance frameworks (GMP, HSEQ).

• Documentation of your approach to fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation within an engineering team.

• Examples of how you have managed cross-functional collaboration and stakeholder communication to ensure successful project outcomes.

• Demonstrations of your ability to lead and implement modularization and standardization initiatives within engineering projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the leadership nature of this role and the emphasis on process improvement and digital transformation, a strong portfolio demonstrating strategic impact and change management capabilities will be crucial. Candidates should be prepared to articulate their approach to developing and implementing engineering standards, managing complex projects, and fostering a high-performing team.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: The collective agreement minimum gross salary for this position is €80,000 per year. The actual salary will be negotiated based on individual qualifications and experience.

Benefits:

• Professional development opportunities to enhance technical and leadership skills.

• Personal development support, including training and growth programs.

• Opportunity to work on exciting international projects, expanding global exposure.

• Excellent accessibility via public transportation, promoting sustainable commuting.

• Access to cycling infrastructure, supporting a healthy and eco-friendly lifestyle.

Working Hours: Approximately 40 hours per week, with potential for flexibility depending on project demands and operational needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The stated minimum salary of €80,000 EUR per year for a Head of Design Engineering in Austria aligns with industry benchmarks for senior engineering leadership roles. The benefits focus on professional growth, international exposure, and work-life balance through accessible commuting options, which are attractive to experienced professionals in specialized technical fields.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Industrial Services, Engineering, Construction, Life Science (Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology). Bilfinger is a significant player in supporting the efficiency and sustainability of the process industry, with a dedicated focus on Life Science solutions that cater to highly regulated environments.

Company Size: Over 31,000 employees globally, with a revenue exceeding €5.4 billion (projected for 2025). This indicates a large, established organization with significant resources and a broad operational footprint.

Founded: Bilfinger's history extends back over a century, reflecting a long-standing presence and deep expertise in industrial services. The Bilfinger Life Science division represents a specialized and growing segment within this established entity.

Team Structure:

• The engineering team is led by the Head of Design Engineering, who has disciplinary and technical responsibility for its members. This team likely consists of various engineering disciplines (process, mechanical, electrical, automation, etc.) specialized in the Life Science sector.

• The role requires close collaboration with Project Management, Procurement, Manufacturing, Construction, Commissioning, and Business Development teams, indicating a matrixed or highly integrated project delivery structure.

• Reporting lines are hierarchical within the engineering department, but project execution necessitates strong cross-functional matrix reporting and collaboration. Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making is expected, with an emphasis on technical excellence and compliance (GMP, HSEQ).

• Workflow planning and optimization strategies will be key, particularly in driving standardization, modularization, and digital engineering.

• Automation and efficiency practices are encouraged, especially through the adoption of digital tools and innovative solutions.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Bilfinger's scale and history suggest a stable yet dynamic work environment. The specific mention of "Bilfinger Life Science" and the emphasis on GMP/HSEQ point to a specialized, quality-driven culture within the broader organization. The benefits listed (public transport, cycling) indicate a commitment to employee well-being and sustainability, which might reflect the company's values.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior leadership role, equivalent to a Director or VP level within an engineering function. It requires a strategic mindset, significant technical depth in specialized areas (pharmaceutical/biopharmaceutical process engineering), and proven experience in managing and developing large engineering teams. The scope includes departmental strategy, operational efficiency, and contribution to business development.

Reporting Structure: The Head of Design Engineering will likely report to a higher-level executive within Bilfinger Life Science, such as a Managing Director, COO, or CTO, depending on the specific organizational structure. They will have direct reports within the engineering department.

Operations Impact: This role has a significant impact on the company's ability to deliver complex, high-value projects within the Life Science sector. Effective engineering design and execution are critical for client satisfaction, project profitability, regulatory compliance, and the overall reputation of Bilfinger Life Science. The strategic direction set by this role directly influences operational efficiency, innovation adoption, and long-term competitiveness.

Growth Opportunities:

• Advancement to higher executive roles within Bilfinger Life Science or other divisions of Bilfinger, potentially into a CTO or broader operational leadership position.

• Opportunity to lead larger, more complex, or global engineering initiatives and divisions.

• Potential to specialize further in emerging areas of digital engineering, automation, or sustainable process design within the Life Science industry.

• Development of strategic leadership skills through exposure to executive decision-making and high-stakes project portfolio management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for a Head of Design Engineering in a company like Bilfinger typically involves moving into broader operational leadership or taking on responsibility for larger business units. The emphasis on digital transformation and innovation presents opportunities to become a thought leader in these areas within the industry.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based on-site in Puch bei Hallein, Austria. This suggests a professional office environment within a Bilfinger facility. The company culture emphasizes collaboration and mutual support, implying a workplace designed to facilitate team interaction.

Office Location(s): Puch bei Hallein, Salzburg, Austria. This location is noted as being well-accessible by public transport and cycling paths, indicating a commitment to employee well-being and sustainable commuting practices.

Workspace Context:

• A collaborative workspace is implied, fostering open communication and mutual support among colleagues.

• Access to necessary operations tools and technology is expected, particularly for digital engineering and project management.

• Opportunities for direct interaction with the engineering team, as well as cross-functional teams involved in project delivery, will be frequent.

Work Schedule: The standard working hours are approximately 40 per week. However, given the nature of engineering leadership and project-driven work, flexibility may be required to meet project deadlines and client needs, especially during critical phases of EPC/EPCM projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The description of the work environment suggests a professional, collaborative, and well-connected office setting. The emphasis on accessibility by public transport and cycling paths highlights a potential focus on employee well-being and environmental consciousness within the company's operational ethos.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and cover letter, focusing on your leadership experience, technical expertise in pharmaceutical/biopharmaceutical process engineering, and strategic capabilities.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with Nadine Clement to assess your overall fit, leadership philosophy, and initial understanding of the role's strategic direction. Be prepared to discuss your experience in managing engineering teams and driving process improvements.

• Technical & Leadership Assessment: This may involve a case study or in-depth discussion focusing on your approach to engineering strategy, GMP/HSEQ compliance, digital engineering implementation, and team development. Expect questions related to managing complex projects and stakeholders.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership to discuss your vision for the engineering department, strategic alignment with Bilfinger Life Science, and overall cultural fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Strategic Impact: Highlight achievements where your leadership directly influenced strategic goals, such as improving efficiency, reducing costs, or enhancing quality through engineering initiatives.

• Process Optimization Case Studies: Present detailed examples of how you standardized processes, implemented modularization, or adopted digital engineering tools, quantifying the results (e.g., time saved, error reduction).

• Leadership & Team Development: Showcase instances where you successfully mentored, developed, and retained engineering talent. Include examples of your change management approach.

• Technical Expertise: Clearly articulate your experience with pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical process technology, especially with ultrapure water systems, and how this expertise translated into successful project outcomes.

• Stakeholder Management: Provide examples of how you effectively managed relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including clients, project teams, and regulatory bodies.

Challenge Preparation:

• Strategic Vision: Be ready to articulate your vision for the engineering department at Bilfinger Life Science, considering current industry trends like digitalization and sustainability.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Prepare to discuss how you would tackle common challenges in complex engineering projects, such as scope creep, budget overruns, or regulatory hurdles, emphasizing your structured and pragmatic approach.

• Change Management Scenarios: Think about how you would lead your team through significant changes, such as the adoption of new digital tools or process re-engineering, focusing on communication and employee buy-in.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is likely to be rigorous, assessing not only technical acumen but also strategic leadership and change management capabilities. A well-curated portfolio showcasing quantifiable achievements in process optimization, team development, and strategic implementation will be key to standing out.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Engineering Design Software: Proficiency with industry-standard CAD, CAE, and process simulation tools relevant to chemical, mechanical, and process engineering. Specific tools may include AVEVA, AspenTech, Bentley Systems (e.g., MicroStation), or similar platforms.

• Project Management Software: Experience with tools like SAP Project System, Microsoft Project, Asana, Jira, or similar for planning, tracking, and managing complex engineering projects.

• Digital Engineering Platforms: Familiarity with integrated digital environments for design, collaboration, and data management, potentially including BIM (Building Information Modeling) or PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) systems.

Analytics & Reporting:

• ERP Systems: Experience with enterprise resource planning systems (likely SAP) for resource management, cost control, and project accounting.

• Business Intelligence Tools: Ability to leverage BI tools for performance analysis, reporting on KPIs related to engineering efficiency, project execution, and compliance.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: While not directly managed, understanding how engineering outputs feed into CRM processes for sales and client management will be beneficial.

• Workflow Automation Tools: Familiarity with tools or methodologies that automate repetitive engineering tasks or streamline review processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role demands a strong understanding of modern engineering technologies, particularly those supporting digital engineering, process simulation, and integrated project management. Proficiency with enterprise-level systems like SAP is highly probable given Bilfinger's scale.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Technical Excellence: A commitment to high-quality engineering, precision, and adherence to the highest industry standards, especially in regulated environments.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering an environment where mutual support, open communication, and shared success are paramount, as suggested by the company's description of its culture.

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: Encouraging new ideas, embracing digital transformation, and consistently seeking ways to optimize processes and project delivery.

• Integrity & Responsibility: Upholding high ethical standards, ensuring compliance, and taking ownership of outcomes in all engineering activities.

• Sustainability: Integrating efficient and sustainable practices into engineering designs and project execution, aligning with broader industry and corporate goals.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: A proactive approach to working with project management, procurement, manufacturing, and sales to ensure seamless project lifecycles and client satisfaction.

• Process Review & Feedback: Encouraging constructive feedback loops and regular process reviews to identify areas for improvement and knowledge sharing.

• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting a culture where expertise is shared across the team and with other departments, fostering collective learning and problem-solving.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture appears to value a blend of technical rigor, collaborative spirit, and forward-thinking innovation. The Head of Design Engineering is expected to embody and promote these values, particularly in driving digital transformation and ensuring compliance within a specialized industry.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Complex Regulatory Environments: Ensuring all engineering designs and projects strictly adhere to stringent GMP and HSEQ regulations within the pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical sectors.

• Driving Digital Transformation: Leading the adoption of digital engineering tools and methodologies across a potentially diverse and experienced engineering team, managing resistance to change.

• Balancing Standardization with Project Specificity: Implementing standardized processes and modular designs while retaining the flexibility to meet unique client project requirements.

• Resource and Capacity Management: Effectively allocating limited engineering resources to a demanding project pipeline, ensuring timely delivery without compromising quality.

• Talent Development and Retention: Attracting and retaining highly skilled engineering talent in a competitive market, particularly those with specialized knowledge in Life Science applications.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Digital Engineering: Deepening expertise in emerging digital technologies, AI in engineering, and advanced simulation tools.

• Leadership Development: Opportunities for executive coaching, advanced management training, and participation in strategic leadership programs within Bilfinger.

• Industry Specialization: Expanding knowledge in cutting-edge Life Science process technologies, sustainable engineering practices, and international project execution frameworks.

• Mentorship Programs: Engaging in or leading mentorship initiatives, both as a mentor and mentee, to foster talent and share best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for senior leadership roles in highly regulated and technologically evolving industries. The growth opportunities are significant, offering pathways to broader leadership and specialized expertise within Bilfinger.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Engineering Strategy: "How would you develop and implement an engineering strategy for Bilfinger Life Science that aligns with our corporate goals of efficiency and sustainability, while also addressing the demands of the pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical sectors?" (Prepare to discuss market trends, digital transformation, and risk management.)

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: "Describe a time you successfully managed complex relationships between engineering, project management, and manufacturing to ensure a critical project's success. What was your approach to communication and conflict resolution?" (Focus on stakeholder management, communication protocols, and achieving alignment.)

• Process Improvement: "Walk us through your methodology for identifying inefficiencies in engineering workflows and implementing standardized processes or digital tools to improve them. Provide a specific example of a successful implementation." (Prepare to discuss data analysis, change management, and quantifiable results.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Bilfinger Life Science and our position in the market? How do you see your role contributing to our success?" (Research company projects, values, and recent news.)

• "How would you foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement within the engineering department, particularly regarding digital engineering and sustainability?" (Discuss your leadership style, team engagement strategies, and examples of fostering innovation.)

• "How do you ensure that engineering projects meet stringent GMP and HSEQ compliance requirements? What is your approach to quality assurance and risk mitigation?" (Highlight your understanding of regulatory frameworks and quality management systems.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Quantifiable Impact: For each case study, clearly state the problem, your solution, and the measurable impact (e.g., % reduction in cycle time, % cost savings, improvement in quality metrics).

• Strategic Alignment: Frame your achievements in the context of broader business objectives, such as driving efficiency, enabling growth, or enhancing competitive advantage.

• Leadership Narrative: Emphasize your role in leading teams, driving change, and developing talent. Use storytelling to illustrate your leadership style and decision-making process.

• Future Vision: Be prepared to articulate how your past successes and strategic approach can be applied to Bilfinger Life Science's future challenges and opportunities.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to discuss their strategic thinking, problem-solving abilities, and leadership experience with concrete examples, ideally drawn from their portfolio. Demonstrating an understanding of Bilfinger's specific industry context (Life Science, GMP) will be crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the "Jetzt bewerben" (Apply Now) button on the Bilfinger jobs portal.

• Tailor Your Resume: Ensure your resume clearly highlights your extensive leadership experience (10+ years), specific technical expertise in pharmaceutical/biopharmaceutical process and plant engineering, and proven success in managing engineering teams and projects. Use keywords from the job description such as "Head of Design Engineering," "Process Engineering," "GMP," "HSEQ," and "Digital Engineering."

• Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Articulate your strategic vision for the engineering department at Bilfinger Life Science, your leadership philosophy, and why you are uniquely qualified for this role. Reference specific aspects of the job description and company that resonate with your experience and aspirations.

• Prepare Your Portfolio Walkthrough: Select 2-3 key projects or initiatives from your career that best demonstrate your strategic leadership, process optimization capabilities, digital engineering implementation, and team development successes. Be ready to present these with a focus on quantifiable results and your personal contribution.

• Research Bilfinger Life Science: Gain a deep understanding of their services, target industries, recent projects, and company values. Be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with their mission and how you can contribute to their continued success in the Life Science sector.

⚠️ 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.