Senior Design Manager - Highways

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Design Manager - Highways

Company: AECOM

Location: Madrid, Spain

Job Type: Full-time, Hybrid

Category: Design Management, Infrastructure

Date Posted: June 6, 2025

Experience Level: 10+ years

Remote Status: On-site (Madrid, Spain)

🎨 Role Summary

• Lead the delivery of Highways projects, ensuring client satisfaction and technical excellence.
• Collaborate with a diverse team on various civil projects across global markets.
• Provide technical leadership and manage teams to deliver projects focused on client needs.
• Work with international and multicultural teams, with a focus on the US, Canada, and ANZ markets.
• Contribute to the success of the Europe Global Delivery team by delivering iconic Transportation and Water projects.

🖼️ Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and manage teams to deliver Highways projects, ensuring quality, budget, and schedule targets are met.
• Provide technical guidance and support to team members, fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment.
• Develop and maintain strong client relationships, understanding their needs and ensuring project delivery meets their expectations.
• Collaborate with other departments and teams within AECOM to ensure project success and consistent delivery of high-quality services.
• Stay up-to-date with industry trends, best practices, and emerging technologies to enhance project delivery and maintain a competitive edge.
• Mentor and develop team members, supporting their career growth and technical skill development.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: A Master's degree in civil engineering is preferred but not required.

Experience: Proven track record of technical work on Highways design (10+ years) and project management or design management experience (2+ years) on large international Railway Projects.

Required Skills:

• Proven experience in Highways design and team leading.
• Strong technical leadership skills, with a focus on delivering for the client.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work within teams or in a wider collaboration.
• Proven commitment with Quality Control Policy and Quality Management System.
• Team management experience.
• Fluent in English (oral and written).

Preferred Skills:

• US and/or Australia Professional Engineer license.

🎨 Portfolio & Creative Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a strong portfolio showcasing your Highways design experience and project management skills.
• Include case studies highlighting your ability to lead teams and deliver projects that meet client needs.
• Showcase your understanding of international project delivery and your ability to work with multicultural teams.

Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate your understanding of project management processes and your ability to lead teams through project delivery.
• Include examples of how you have ensured quality control and met project objectives within budget and schedule constraints.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: The salary range for this position in Madrid, Spain, is approximately €60,000 to €80,000 per year, depending on experience and qualifications. This estimate is based on regional market research and AECOM's compensation structure for similar roles.

Benefits:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Life and AD&D insurance.
• Disability benefits.
• Paid time off and leaves of absence.
• Voluntary benefits and perks.
• Flexible work options and well-being resources.
• Employee assistance program and business travel insurance.
• Service recognition awards and retirement savings plan.
• Employee stock purchase plan.

Working Hours: The standard workweek is 40 hours, with flexible scheduling options available.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company & Design Culture

Industry: AECOM operates in the civil engineering industry, focusing on delivering infrastructure projects that improve the quality of life for communities worldwide.

Company Size: AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm with over 50,000 employees globally, offering a large and diverse design team to collaborate with.

Founded: AECOM was founded in 1990, with a rich history of delivering complex infrastructure projects and a strong commitment to sustainability and innovation.

Team Structure:

• The design team is organized into specialized groups, with the Highways team focusing on US, Canada, and ANZ markets.
• The team works closely with internal clients, including Local Authorities and major Contractors, on Framework Agreements and Design and Build commissions.
• The team is part of the Europe Global Delivery, collaborating with diverse and multicultural teams on iconic Transportation and Water projects.

Methodology:

• The team follows established project management processes to deliver design packages for various Civil Projects.
• They work closely with clients to understand their needs and ensure project delivery meets their expectations.
• The team is committed to continuous improvement, staying up-to-date with industry trends and best practices.

Company Website: aecom.com

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Design Career Level: This role is a Senior Design Manager position, requiring extensive experience in Highways design and project management. The role offers opportunities for career progression within AECOM's global organization.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Design Manager reports directly to the Group Manager and works closely with other design managers and technical specialists within AECOM.

Design Impact: The role has a significant impact on AECOM's global delivery of Highways projects, contributing to the success of the company's infrastructure solutions and the satisfaction of its clients.

Growth Opportunities:

• Proven track record of technical work on Highways design and project management experience offers opportunities for career progression within AECOM's global organization.
• Experience working in the US, Canada, and/or ANZ, as well as working with design teams located in different countries, can lead to international career opportunities.
• AECOM's commitment to continuous learning and development provides opportunities for skill development and leadership growth.

🌐 Work Environment

Studio Type: AECOM's Madrid office provides a modern and collaborative work environment, with dedicated design spaces and access to cutting-edge technology.

Office Location(s): Madrid, Spain

Design Workspace Context:

• The office features dedicated design spaces, with access to specialized software and hardware for Highways design and project management.
• The work environment encourages collaboration and knowledge-sharing among team members, fostering a creative and innovative culture.
• The office is located in a convenient area of Madrid, with easy access to public transportation and nearby amenities.

Work Schedule: AECOM offers a flexible hybrid work arrangement, combining in-office and remote work schedules to balance work-life integration and productivity.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Design Interview Process:

• The interview process for this role may include a combination of phone, video, and in-person interviews, as well as a portfolio review and technical assessment.
• Candidates can expect to discuss their technical skills, project management experience, and cultural fit with AECOM.
• The interview process may include questions about the candidate's experience working with international and multicultural teams, as well as their familiarity with US, Canada, and ANZ markets.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight your Highways design experience and project management skills through relevant case studies and examples.
• Demonstrate your ability to lead teams and deliver projects that meet client needs, with a focus on international project delivery and multicultural team collaboration.
• Showcase your understanding of AECOM's design culture and your alignment with the company's values and mission.

Challenge Preparation:

• Prepare for technical assessments and case studies that focus on your Highways design and project management skills.
• Research AECOM's design culture and industry focus to demonstrate your enthusiasm for the role and alignment with the company's mission.
• Practice presenting your portfolio and case studies, focusing on your ability to lead teams and deliver projects that meet client needs.

ATS Keywords:

• Highways Design, Project Management, Design Management, Technical Leadership, Client Satisfaction, International Project Delivery, Multicultural Team Collaboration, Infrastructure, Civil Engineering, Design Software, Project Management Tools

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Design Tools:

• AutoCAD Civil 3D - Industry-standard software for Highway design and drafting.
• Bentley MicroStation - A powerful design and drafting solution for complex infrastructure projects.
• Revit - Building Information Modeling (BIM) software for collaborative design and construction documentation.
• Navisworks - A project review and coordination software for construction projects.

Collaboration & Handoff:

• Microsoft Office Suite - A comprehensive set of productivity tools for document creation, collaboration, and communication.
• Microsoft Project - Project management software for planning, assigning resources, tracking progress, and managing project timelines.
• SharePoint - A web-based collaborative platform for intranet portals, document management, and knowledge sharing.

Research & Testing:

• Google Earth - A geospatial mapping platform for site analysis and visualization.
• Trimble - A suite of surveying and positioning tools for data collection and fieldwork management.
• Autodesk InfraWorks - A comprehensive infrastructure modeling and simulation software for civil engineering projects.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Design Values:

• **Excellence:** AECOM strives for technical excellence in all aspects of its work, delivering high-quality projects that meet or exceed client expectations.
• **Innovation:** AECOM fosters a culture of innovation, encouraging team members to explore new ideas, tools, and approaches to enhance project delivery and drive industry progress.
• **Collaboration:** AECOM values collaboration, both within its design teams and with clients, stakeholders, and partners to ensure project success and maximize value.
• **Sustainability:** AECOM is committed to sustainable design and responsible business practices, integrating environmental, social, and economic considerations into its projects and operations.

Collaboration Style:

• AECOM's design teams work closely together, sharing knowledge, and supporting each other's growth and development.
• The company encourages cross-functional collaboration, with design teams working alongside other disciplines, such as engineering, planning, and environmental specialists, to deliver integrated solutions.
• AECOM fosters a culture of open communication and active listening, ensuring that all voices are heard and valued in the design process.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Design Challenges:

• **International Project Delivery:** Working with design teams located in different countries and time zones can present communication and coordination challenges. Successful candidates will demonstrate strong communication skills and experience working with multicultural teams.
• **Regulatory Compliance:** AECOM's projects often involve complex regulatory requirements and standards. Candidates must be familiar with relevant regulations and demonstrate strong attention to detail in their work.
• **Project Complexity:** AECOM's projects can be large and complex, requiring strong project management skills and the ability to balance multiple priorities and deadlines.
• **Technical Evolution:** The infrastructure industry is evolving rapidly, with new tools, technologies, and best practices emerging constantly. Successful candidates will demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning and staying up-to-date with industry trends.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• **Technical Skill Development:** AECOM offers opportunities for design professionals to develop their technical skills through training, workshops, and on-the-job experience.
• **Leadership Development:** AECOM provides leadership development programs and mentoring opportunities to support the growth and advancement of design professionals within the organization.
• **Industry Conference Participation:** AECOM encourages design team members to attend industry conferences and events to network with peers, learn about new trends, and share best practices.

💡 Interview Preparation

Design Process Questions:

• **Project Management:** Expect questions about your experience managing Highways design projects, including budget, schedule, and resource allocation. Prepare examples of your ability to deliver projects on time, within budget, and to client satisfaction.
• **Technical Leadership:** Be prepared to discuss your technical expertise in Highways design and your ability to lead and mentor design team members. Provide examples of your contributions to technical standards, best practices, and design guidelines.
• **International Project Delivery:** AECOM's global presence requires strong international project delivery experience. Prepare examples of your ability to work with multicultural teams, navigate different time zones, and adapt to local regulations and standards.

Company Culture Questions:

• **Design Culture:** Expect questions about your understanding of AECOM's design culture, values, and mission. Prepare examples of how your personal values and work ethic align with the company's design principles.
• **Team Dynamics:** AECOM's design teams are collaborative and supportive. Prepare examples of your ability to work effectively within teams, contribute to a positive work environment, and support the growth and development of your colleagues.
• **Design Impact Measurement:** AECOM is committed to delivering high-quality projects that meet or exceed client expectations. Prepare examples of your ability to measure design impact, gather feedback, and iterate on your designs to ensure client satisfaction.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• **Case Study Structure:** Organize your portfolio with clear and concise case studies, highlighting your Highways design experience and project management skills. Focus on your ability to lead teams and deliver projects that meet client needs.
• **Visual Presentation Techniques:** Use high-quality visuals, diagrams, and renderings to illustrate your design process, technical expertise, and project outcomes.
• **Interactive Demonstration:** Prepare interactive demonstrations or simulations to showcase your ability to engage stakeholders, communicate design rationale, and facilitate collaborative decision-making.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Design Manager - Highways position at AECOM:

• Submit your application through the provided link
• Customize your resume and portfolio to highlight your Highways design experience, project management skills, and alignment with AECOM's design culture and values.
• Prepare for the interview process by researching AECOM's design culture, industry focus, and global presence. Practice presenting your portfolio and case studies, focusing on your ability to lead teams and deliver projects that meet client needs.
• Prepare for technical assessments and case studies that focus on your Highways design and project management skills. Research AECOM's design technology stack and familiarize yourself with industry-standard software solutions for Highway design and project management.
• Prepare for questions about your experience working with international and multicultural teams, as well as your familiarity with US, Canada, and ANZ markets. Research AECOM's global presence and commitment to international project delivery.