HSR Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: HSR Design Manager

Company: RINA

Location: Herzliya, Israel

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Project Engineering / Infrastructure & Mobility Operations

Date Posted: August 7, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage the end-to-end design process for high-speed rail (HSR) programs, ensuring integrated, compliant, and high-quality solutions across all engineering disciplines.

• Drive the coordination and collaboration of multidisciplinary design teams and critical project interfaces to foster efficient workflow and knowledge sharing.

• Implement robust design assurance and governance processes, including leading design reviews and ensuring adherence to rigorous quality control and quality assurance standards.

• Ensure strict compliance with all relevant railway standards, safety regulations, and operational requirements throughout the design lifecycle.

• Maintain the integrity of the design baseline through effective configuration control and change management practices, crucial for large-scale infrastructure projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within the 'Project Engineering' Division, indicating a strong focus on the operational execution and technical management of complex engineering projects, specifically within the high-speed rail sector. The 'HSR' designation implies a specialized focus on advanced railway infrastructure, requiring deep domain expertise in this area.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design Program Management: Oversee the entire design program, establishing and managing comprehensive governance and delivery processes to ensure successful project outcomes.

• Multidisciplinary Coordination: Actively coordinate diverse design teams (e.g., Civil, Structural, Mechanical, Electrical, Systems) and manage interdisciplinary interfaces to prevent conflicts and optimize integration.

• Design Assurance & Review: Lead and facilitate critical design reviews, validation activities, and design assurance processes to guarantee technical integrity and compliance.

• Standards & Compliance: Ensure all design solutions strictly adhere to international and local railway standards, safety regulations, and operational requirements specific to high-speed rail.

• Configuration & Baseline Management: Maintain meticulous configuration control and integrity of the design baseline, managing changes effectively to preserve project scope and quality.

• Technical Leadership: Provide expert technical guidance and leadership to design teams, fostering a culture of innovation, problem-solving, and continuous improvement.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Effectively manage relationships and communication with all project stakeholders, including internal teams, external consultants, regulatory bodies, and clients, ensuring alignment on design objectives.

• Risk Management: Proactively identify, assess, and mitigate technical risks associated with the design process, developing robust risk mitigation strategies.

• Quality Control & Assurance: Implement and oversee rigorous quality control and assurance processes to ensure the highest standards of design output.

• Strategic Planning: Contribute to high-level strategic planning for project execution, optimizing resource allocation and design methodologies for efficiency and effectiveness.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a blend of technical oversight, project management, and leadership, typical of a senior operations role within a large-scale engineering project. The focus on "integrated, compliant, and high-quality design solutions" highlights the critical operations function of ensuring successful project delivery through meticulous planning and execution.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a closely related engineering discipline.

Experience: Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in managing design aspects of major infrastructure and railway projects, with a significant portion focused on high-speed rail (HSR). Proven track record of leading and successfully delivering complex, multidisciplinary design initiatives.

Required Skills:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Civil, Railway, Structural, Mechanical, Electrical, or Systems Engineering.

• Minimum 10 years of experience in major infrastructure and railway design projects.

• Proven experience leading and managing multidisciplinary design teams.

• Strong knowledge of design assurance methodologies and railway standards.

• Excellent leadership capabilities with demonstrated ability to guide and motivate engineering teams.

• Proficient in stakeholder management and effective communication across diverse groups.

• Expertise in quality control and assurance processes for engineering deliverables.

• In-depth understanding of compliance and safety standards in complex engineering projects.

• Demonstrated ability to manage technical aspects of high-value and large-scale projects.

• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills for addressing complex technical challenges.

• Proven ability to develop risk mitigation strategies and manage technical risks effectively.

• Capable of high-level strategic planning to optimize project execution and design workflows. Preferred Skills:

• Master's degree in a relevant engineering field or Project Management.

• Experience with specific HSR systems and technologies.

• Familiarity with project management software and collaboration platforms.

• Knowledge of international railway standards (e.g., UIC, EN standards).

• Experience in a consultancy or engineering firm environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The extensive experience requirement (10+ years) and the focus on managing multidisciplinary teams and complex projects indicate this role requires a seasoned professional with a strong operational understanding of the entire design lifecycle. The emphasis on "quality control and assurance processes" and "risk mitigation strategies" points to the need for robust process management skills.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Delivery Case Studies: Showcase examples of major infrastructure or railway projects managed, detailing your role in the design delivery, team coordination, and successful completion.

• Process Optimization Examples: Present evidence of implemented process improvements within design workflows that led to enhanced efficiency, quality, or cost savings.

• System Integration Demonstrations: Illustrate experience with integrating diverse engineering systems and disciplines, highlighting how you managed dependencies and ensured seamless operation.

• Risk Management Frameworks: Provide documentation or examples of risk assessment and mitigation plans developed for complex engineering designs, demonstrating foresight and proactive management.

• Quality Assurance Protocols: Include examples of quality assurance protocols or checklists you have developed or implemented to ensure design compliance and accuracy.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Demonstrate experience in designing, documenting, and optimizing complex engineering workflows, from conceptualization through to detailed design and handover.

• Implementation & Automation: Detail how you have overseen the implementation of design processes and explored opportunities for automation to improve efficiency and reduce manual effort.

• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Show how you track and analyze the performance of design processes, using data to identify bottlenecks, measure success against KPIs, and drive continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role of this seniority, a portfolio is crucial. It should not just list projects but demonstrate a deep understanding of operational processes, system integration, and the ability to manage complex technical workflows. Emphasis should be placed on quantifiable results and process improvements.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for Senior Design Managers in major infrastructure projects in Israel, with 10+ years of experience, the estimated annual salary range is between ₪350,000 - ₪550,000 (approximately $95,000 - $150,000 USD). This range is subject to negotiation based on specific experience, qualifications, and interview performance.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance plan (medical, dental, vision).

• Retirement savings plan with company matching contributions.

• Paid time off, including vacation days, sick leave, and public holidays.

• Professional development opportunities, including training, certifications, and conference attendance.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses.

• Support for relocation and work visa processing if applicable.

• Access to RINA's global network for professional development and collaboration.

Working Hours: Standard full-time working hours are approximately 40 hours per week, with flexibility often available based on project demands and team needs. The role is primarily on-site.

📝 Enhancement Note: The estimated salary is based on research of senior engineering management roles in Israel, considering the specialized nature of high-speed rail and the significant experience required. Benefits are typical for multinational engineering firms, emphasizing professional growth and employee well-being.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: RINA operates across a diverse range of sectors including Energy, Marine, Certification, Infrastructure & Mobility, Industry, and Research & Development. This role is situated within the Infrastructure & Mobility sector, specifically focusing on high-speed rail. The company's business model covers the full project lifecycle, from concept to completion, indicating a comprehensive and integrated approach to engineering services.

Company Size: RINA is a multinational company with a significant global presence. While specific employee numbers for the Tel Aviv office are not detailed, the company's broad operational scope suggests a large, established organization with a robust internal structure and resources.

Founded: RINA was founded in 1861, bringing over 160 years of experience and a deep heritage in engineering and technical services. This long history suggests a stable, reputable organization with established methodologies and a strong commitment to industry standards.

Team Structure:

• The role is within the Project Engineering Division, specifically focused on High-Speed Rail (HSR) programs.

• The HSR Design Manager will lead and coordinate multidisciplinary design teams, implying direct management responsibilities.

• Collaboration is expected across various engineering disciplines, suggesting a matrixed or project-based team structure where specialists from different fields work together.

• Reporting lines will likely be to a senior program director or divisional head within Project Engineering. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Operations: RINA's approach emphasizes a scientific and critical thinking methodology, suggesting that decisions and process improvements are based on data analysis and evidence.

• Workflow Optimization: The company values resourcefulness in shaping progress and working efficiently, pointing to a focus on optimizing workflows and project execution.

• Systemic Perspective: A competency in "Foresight & Insight" indicates an approach that considers the broader context, adopts a systemic perspective, and uses informed decision-making for project success.

Company Website: https://www.rina.org/en

📝 Enhancement Note: RINA's long history and broad industry reach suggest a company with a strong foundation in technical expertise and a commitment to rigorous operational standards. The emphasis on "scientific approach," "critical thinking," and "systemic perspective" aligns well with the demands of managing complex engineering projects like high-speed rail.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior-level position within Project Engineering, specifically focused on the operational management of design processes for large-scale infrastructure. It requires a deep technical understanding combined with strong leadership and project management skills, placing it at a strategic operational level. The responsibility for managing the entire design program and multidisciplinary teams signifies a significant scope of influence.

Reporting Structure: The HSR Design Manager will likely report to a Director of Project Engineering or a Senior Program Manager overseeing the HSR initiative. They will, in turn, manage and guide teams of engineers and designers across various disciplines. This structure emphasizes a clear chain of command for operational decision-making and accountability.

Operations Impact: The HSR Design Manager's role is critical to the successful and timely delivery of the high-speed rail program. Their ability to manage design complexities, ensure compliance, and foster efficient collaboration directly impacts project timelines, budget adherence, safety, and the overall quality and functionality of the HSR infrastructure. This role has a direct impact on RINA's reputation and its ability to secure and execute future large-scale projects.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in high-speed rail systems, advanced materials, or specific engineering disciplines through specialized projects and training.

• Program Leadership: Advance to higher-level program management roles, overseeing larger or multiple concurrent HSR projects, or transitioning to broader infrastructure program director positions.

• Global Mobility: Opportunities to work on international projects within RINA's global network, expanding exposure to different engineering challenges and operational environments.

• Mentorship & Training: Develop leadership skills by mentoring junior engineers and contributing to RINA's internal training programs for design and project management.

• Strategic Development: Contribute to the strategic planning and business development efforts within the Infrastructure & Mobility sector, influencing future project pipelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for this role suggests progression from managing design components to overseeing entire project lifecycles, with opportunities for both technical and managerial advancement within RINA's global operations.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The position is based in RINA's office in Tel Aviv, Israel. This implies a professional office environment with dedicated workspaces, meeting rooms, and access to necessary office infrastructure. Given the nature of the role, collaboration and on-site presence are key.

Office Location(s): The primary office location is Herzliya, Israel (a suburb of Tel Aviv), within the 4672501 postal code area. This location is a significant hub for technology and business in Israel.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The workspace is designed to foster collaboration among engineering teams, with opportunities for cross-disciplinary interaction and knowledge sharing.

• Tools & Technology: Access to industry-standard engineering software, project management tools, and RINA's internal IT infrastructure will be provided to support design and management activities.

• Team Interaction: Regular team meetings, design reviews, and project coordination sessions will be integral to the daily workflow, promoting strong team dynamics.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is approximately 40 hours per week. While on-site presence is expected, there may be some flexibility in daily start/end times, contingent on project needs and team coordination requirements. Occasional travel for site visits or client meetings may be required.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement for this role is standard for managing complex, collaborative engineering projects where direct interaction and oversight are critical. The Tel Aviv area location suggests a dynamic professional environment.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and portfolio to assess alignment with the role's technical and experience requirements.

• Technical Interview: In-depth discussion with engineering leaders or senior technical staff focusing on your experience with HSR projects, design management, railway standards, and problem-solving capabilities. Expect questions about specific project challenges you've overcome.

• Management & Leadership Interview: Assessment of your leadership style, team management experience, stakeholder engagement skills, and strategic thinking. This may involve behavioral questions.

• Portfolio Presentation: A dedicated session where you will present key projects from your portfolio, detailing your operational contributions, process improvements, and the impact of your work. Be prepared to discuss metrics and demonstrate ROI.

• Final Interview: A discussion with senior management to evaluate overall fit with RINA's culture and strategic objectives.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your most impactful projects that best demonstrate your experience in HSR, large-scale infrastructure, multidisciplinary team leadership, and process optimization.

• Quantify Achievements: For each project, clearly articulate your role, the challenges faced, the operational solutions implemented, and the quantifiable results achieved (e.g., time saved, cost reduction, quality improvement, compliance met).

• Process Focus: Highlight specific design processes you managed, optimized, or implemented. Explain the 'why' behind your approach and the benefits it brought.

• Visual Aids: Use clear, concise visuals (diagrams, charts, timelines) to illustrate complex processes or project scopes.

• Storytelling: Frame your project experiences as compelling narratives that showcase your problem-solving skills and leadership impact.

Challenge Preparation:

• Case Study Analysis: Be prepared for a potential case study exercise involving a hypothetical HSR design challenge. Focus on your approach to problem definition, stakeholder alignment, risk assessment, and proposing a structured solution.

• Process Mapping: Practice outlining a typical HSR design process and identifying key operational touchpoints, potential bottlenecks, and areas for improvement.

• Stakeholder Communication: Prepare to articulate complex technical information clearly and concisely, demonstrating your ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process emphasizes a thorough evaluation of both technical expertise and operational management capabilities. A well-structured portfolio that highlights process-driven achievements and quantifiable outcomes will be critical for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency with tools like Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Asana, or Jira for planning, scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking.

• CAD & BIM Software: Familiarity with industry-standard Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Building Information Modeling (BIM) platforms (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit, Bentley systems) used in large-scale engineering projects.

• Collaboration Platforms: Experience with tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or Confluence for team communication, document sharing, and knowledge management.

• Document Management Systems: Familiarity with systems for managing large volumes of technical documentation, ensuring version control and accessibility.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret data from project reports, performance metrics, and design simulations. Familiarity with Excel for data manipulation and analysis.

• Reporting Dashboards: Experience in creating or interpreting performance dashboards to track project progress, identify deviations from plan, and communicate status to stakeholders.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: While not a direct sales role, understanding how design data integrates with CRM or ERP systems for project tracking and client management is beneficial.

• Workflow Automation: Awareness of how automation can be applied to design processes, document management, or reporting to improve efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific software is not listed, the role implies a need for proficiency in standard engineering design and project management tools. The emphasis on process and efficiency suggests an appreciation for automation and data-driven decision-making.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Execution: A commitment to delivering high-quality, compliant, and efficient design solutions that meet rigorous engineering standards.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering an environment where multidisciplinary teams work seamlessly together, sharing knowledge and supporting each other's contributions.

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: Encouraging new ideas and methodologies to optimize design processes, solve complex challenges, and drive efficiency.

• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding the highest ethical standards and taking ownership of responsibilities, ensuring transparency and reliability in all operations.

• Safety & Compliance: Prioritizing safety and adherence to all relevant regulations and standards as paramount in all engineering activities.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Actively promoting integration between different engineering disciplines and project functions to ensure holistic design solutions.

• Open Communication: Encouraging an open dialogue, constructive feedback, and transparent communication channels among team members and stakeholders.

• Problem-Solving Focus: A proactive approach to identifying and resolving issues collaboratively, leveraging the collective expertise of the team.

• Knowledge Sharing: Facilitating the exchange of best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise across the design team and wider organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: RINA's stated competencies (Domain & Business Acumen, Interpersonal Influence, Workplace Dynamics, Foresight & Insight, Personal Empowerment) provide a strong framework for understanding their culture. This role requires someone who embodies these values in their daily operations and team interactions.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complexity of HSR Systems: Navigating the intricate technical requirements and interdependencies of high-speed rail systems, which often involve cutting-edge technology and stringent safety protocols.

• Multidisciplinary Integration: Effectively managing and aligning diverse engineering disciplines, each with its own methodologies, priorities, and technical languages, to achieve a cohesive design.

• Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring strict adherence to a complex web of international, national, and local railway standards, safety regulations, and environmental requirements.

• Stakeholder Alignment: Balancing the often-conflicting needs and expectations of various stakeholders, including clients, regulatory bodies, contractors, and internal departments.

• Managing Change: Implementing and controlling design changes effectively throughout the project lifecycle to maintain baseline integrity and avoid scope creep or schedule delays.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced HSR Technologies: Gaining in-depth knowledge of emerging technologies and innovations in high-speed rail design and operation.

• International Standards & Practices: Deepening understanding of global best practices and standards in railway engineering through exposure to RINA's international projects.

• Leadership Development: Enhancing leadership, negotiation, and strategic planning skills through direct management of large teams and complex projects.

• Project Management Certifications: Opportunities to pursue or enhance certifications such as PMP (Project Management Professional) or relevant engineering accreditations.

• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Learning about different engineering domains through close collaboration, expanding overall technical breadth.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are inherent to large-scale infrastructure projects, requiring a candidate with proven resilience, adaptability, and a strategic approach to problem-solving. The growth opportunities are geared towards deepening expertise and expanding leadership scope.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you managed a complex, multidisciplinary design project. What were the key challenges, how did you ensure integration, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on process, collaboration, and results)

• "How do you ensure compliance with railway standards and safety regulations in a high-pressure design environment?" (Highlight your operational approach to compliance and risk management)

• "Walk us through your process for managing design changes and maintaining configuration control on a large infrastructure project." (Demonstrate your understanding of baseline integrity and change management)

• "How do you foster a collaborative and innovative culture within your design teams?" (Showcase your leadership style and ability to motivate engineers)

• "What is your approach to identifying and mitigating technical risks in the early stages of a railway design project?" (Emphasize proactive planning and risk assessment) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about RINA and our work in the Infrastructure & Mobility sector, particularly high-speed rail?" (Research RINA's recent projects and values)

• "How do you align your personal work style with RINA's stated competencies (e.g., Foresight & Insight, Workplace Dynamics)?" (Connect your experience to their core values)

• "How do you approach stakeholder management when faced with competing interests?" (Demonstrate your interpersonal influence and negotiation skills) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your presentation logically, perhaps by project type or by demonstrating specific competencies (e.g., a project showcasing leadership, another demonstrating process optimization).

• Focus on Operations: For each project, clearly articulate the operational challenges, the processes you implemented or managed, and the impact on project delivery. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for clarity.

• Quantify: Wherever possible, use numbers and metrics to demonstrate the tangible impact of your work (e.g., "reduced design review cycles by 15%", "ensured 100% compliance with safety standards").

• Visuals: Use concise slides with clear diagrams, flowcharts, or images to illustrate complex designs or processes. Avoid text-heavy slides.

• Engagement: Be prepared to answer detailed questions about your role, decision-making process, and any lessons learned.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong understanding of engineering operations, project lifecycle management, and the ability to translate technical requirements into actionable design plans while managing risks and stakeholders effectively.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this HSR Design Manager position:

• Submit your comprehensive application, including your updated CV and a tailored cover letter, through the RINA careers portal link provided.

• Portfolio Customization: Prepare a focused portfolio that highlights your most relevant experience in high-speed rail, large-scale infrastructure design, and multidisciplinary team leadership. Emphasize case studies demonstrating your process management, quality assurance, and risk mitigation strategies, with quantifiable results.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly articulates your 10+ years of experience, highlighting achievements in design management, compliance, and stakeholder engagement using keywords relevant to HSR and project engineering operations.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method, prepare specific examples for behavioral questions, and be ready to discuss your approach to managing complex engineering operations and design challenges.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research RINA's projects, values, and recent achievements in the Infrastructure & Mobility sector. Understand their operational approach and how your skills align with their strategic goals.

⚠️ 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.