Assistant Design Manager (DFMA/Technical)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Assistant Design Manager (DFMA/Technical)

Company: Mace

Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Job Type: Full-time, Regular

Category: Construction Management / Design Operations

Date Posted: March 18, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearhead the application of Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DFMA) principles throughout the design lifecycle, from concept to Issued for Construction (IFC).

• Oversee and coordinate multidisciplinary design packages, ensuring technical submissions meet project standards for accuracy, buildability, and manufacturability.

• Act as a key liaison between design teams, architects, engineers, specialist suppliers, and off-site manufacturers to optimize designs for production efficiency and ease of assembly.

• Manage complex interfaces between factory-produced components and on-site installation, proactively identifying risks and proposing innovative technical solutions.

• Drive the tracking of design progress through rigorous logging, reporting, workshops, and reviews, ensuring all deliverables align with program timelines, quality benchmarks, and compliance mandates.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as an Assistant Design Manager with a strong technical and DFMA focus, indicating a need for candidates who can not only coordinate but also critically assess designs from a production and assembly perspective. The emphasis on "technical submissions" and "buildability/manufacturability" suggests a role that bridges the gap between conceptual design and practical execution in a large-scale construction project environment.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Support the Design Manager in orchestrating the coordination of diverse design packages, ensuring DFMA principles are embedded from initial concept stages through to the Issued for Construction (IFC) phase.

• Conduct thorough reviews of drawings, specifications, and technical submissions to verify accuracy, assess buildability and manufacturability, and confirm alignment with overarching project standards and objectives.

• Foster close collaboration with architects, engineers, specialist suppliers, and off-site manufacturers to refine designs, thereby optimizing them for efficient production and streamlined on-site assembly.

• Proactively manage and resolve interface challenges that arise between factory-produced elements and on-site installation requirements, identifying potential risks and developing robust technical solutions.

• Implement systematic tracking of design progress via detailed logs, regular reports, dedicated workshops, and formal reviews, ensuring all design deliverables meet established program schedules, quality expectations, and regulatory compliance requirements.

• Contribute to value engineering initiatives, design assurance processes, sequencing considerations, tolerance management, lifting and handling inputs, and the refinement of assembly methodologies.

• Assist in the management of Requests for Information (RFIs), review design markups, provide technical clarifications, and facilitate coordination meetings with consultants, contractors, and internal design teams to ensure seamless communication and problem-solving.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a hands-on role focused on the practical execution of design, with a significant emphasis on DFMA, technical review, and cross-functional coordination. The mention of "value engineering," "design assurance," and "sequencing considerations" points to a need for analytical skills and a deep understanding of construction methodologies beyond basic design coordination.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• 5-10 years of progressive experience in design coordination, technical management, or a similar role within large-scale construction or infrastructure projects.

• Proven experience applying Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DFMA) principles in practice.

• Demonstrated ability to review and analyze technical drawings, specifications, and construction systems.

Required Skills:

• Design Management: Ability to support and contribute to the overall design management plan and its effectiveness.

• DFMA Expertise: In-depth understanding and practical application of Design for Manufacture and Assembly principles.

• Technical Review: Skill in reviewing drawings, specifications, and technical submissions for accuracy, buildability, and manufacturability.

• Design Coordination: Proficiency in coordinating multidisciplinary design packages and resolving interface challenges.

• Buildability & Manufacturability Analysis: Capability to assess designs from a production and assembly standpoint.

• RFI Management: Experience in processing and responding to RFIs and providing technical clarifications.

• Project Compliance: Understanding of statutory, legal, and contractual requirements in construction.

Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with safety legislation and construction contracts.

• Basic understanding of prefabrication and off-site manufacturing processes.

• Experience with value engineering and design assurance methodologies.

• Proficiency in relevant design and project management software.

• Knowledge of lifting/handling considerations and assembly methodologies.

• Experience in the Middle Eastern construction market, particularly Saudi Arabia.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize a blend of technical design understanding, practical construction knowledge, and project coordination skills. The specific mention of DFMA, buildability, and manufacturability, alongside regulatory and contractual familiarity, points to a candidate who can ensure designs are not only compliant but also efficient to produce and assemble. The visa requirement for Saudi Arabia is a critical qualification for this role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• DFMA Case Studies: Showcase projects where DFMA principles were successfully implemented, detailing the design modifications, manufacturing efficiencies gained, and assembly improvements achieved. Include visual aids such as before/after design comparisons or manufacturing process diagrams.

• Technical Review Examples: Provide anonymized samples of technical submissions (drawings, specifications) you have reviewed, highlighting identified issues related to buildability, manufacturability, or compliance, and detailing the solutions proposed or implemented.

• Interface Management Documentation: Present examples of how you have managed complex interfaces between different design disciplines or between off-site manufacturing and on-site construction, including risk identification and resolution strategies.

• Progress Tracking & Reporting Samples: Include examples of design progress logs, workshop minutes, or review reports that demonstrate your ability to track deliverables, identify deviations, and report on compliance with project requirements.

Process Documentation:

• DFMA Implementation Workflow: Document a typical workflow for integrating DFMA considerations into a design process, from initial concept through to construction detailing.

• Technical Review Checklist: Develop or present an example of a checklist used for reviewing design packages, ensuring all critical aspects of buildability, manufacturability, and adherence to standards are covered.

• Interface Resolution Protocol: Outline a process for identifying, tracking, and resolving design interfaces, including communication protocols and escalation procedures.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio demonstrating practical application of DFMA, rigorous technical review capabilities, and effective interface management is crucial. Candidates should be prepared to present case studies that quantify the benefits of their contributions, such as time savings, cost reductions, or improved quality resulting from optimized design for manufacture and assembly.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage for the employee and eligible dependents.

• Relocation assistance and support for obtaining necessary visas and work permits for Saudi Arabia.

• Housing allowance or company-provided accommodation.

• Transportation allowance or company vehicle.

• Annual leave entitlement, typically 25-30 working days per year.

• Flights home allowance (e.g., annual flight ticket for employee and dependents).

• Professional development opportunities, including training, certifications, and attendance at relevant industry conferences.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses.

Working Hours:

• Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday.

• Flexibility may be required to attend crucial meetings or address urgent project needs, including occasional weekend work during critical project phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on extensive research into compensation for similar roles in the Saudi Arabian construction and PMC sectors, factoring in the specified experience level and the project's scale. Benefits are typical for expatriate roles in Saudi Arabia and are designed to support relocation and well-being.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction, Consulting, Project Management

Company Size: Mace is a global company with a significant workforce, typically employing over 6,000 people worldwide. This large scale allows for diverse career paths and access to extensive resources across various disciplines and geographies.

Founded: Mace was founded in 1990, bringing decades of experience in delivering complex projects across the globe. This history signifies a stable and established organization with a proven track record in the industry.

Team Structure:

• The Assistant Design Manager will likely be part of a larger project management or design management team.

• This team will include a Design Manager, potentially other Assistant Design Managers or specialists (e.g., BIM Managers, technical coordinators), and will collaborate closely with project directors, construction managers, commercial teams, and client representatives.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Emphasis on using project data, technical analysis, and performance metrics to inform design decisions and problem-solving.

• Integrated Project Delivery: A focus on collaborative workflows and shared responsibility across all project stakeholders to achieve optimal outcomes.

• Continuous Improvement: A culture that encourages learning from each project, refining processes, and adopting best practices in design, construction, and management.

• Risk Management Focus: Proactive identification, assessment, and mitigation of risks throughout the project lifecycle, particularly in design and construction interfaces.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Mace's stated values (Safety First, Client Focus, Integrity, Create Opportunity) are foundational to its culture. For an operations-focused role like this, expect a strong emphasis on process, compliance, efficiency, and delivering on client promises through meticulous project execution and a commitment to safety and well-being.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is an "Assistant" level position, typically representing an intermediate career stage. It's ideal for professionals who have developed foundational skills in design coordination and technical management and are ready to take on more responsibility, particularly in a specialized area like DFMA. It serves as a stepping stone towards a full Design Manager role.

Reporting Structure: The Assistant Design Manager will report directly to a Design Manager, who in turn may report to a Program Director or Project Director depending on the project's scale. This structure provides clear lines of authority and mentorship. Collaboration will extend to architects, engineers, contractors, and specialist suppliers.

Operations Impact: The influence of this role is significant. By ensuring designs are optimized for manufacture and assembly, the Assistant Design Manager directly impacts project efficiency, cost-effectiveness, quality, and safety. Their work facilitates smoother construction, reduces rework, and helps meet ambitious project timelines on large-scale developments.

Growth Opportunities:

• Progression to Design Manager: The most direct path is to advance to a Design Manager role, taking full ownership of design coordination and strategy for projects or specific workstreams.

• Specialization in DFMA/Off-site Construction: Deepen expertise in DFMA, modular construction, and advanced manufacturing techniques, becoming a subject matter expert within Mace.

• Technical Leadership: Move into roles focused on technical assurance, design standards development, or innovation within the construction technology space.

• Project Management: Transition into broader project management roles, leveraging the integrated understanding of design and construction gained in this position.

• International Mobility: With experience in Saudi Arabia, opportunities may arise to contribute to other major international projects within Mace's global portfolio.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear development path within Mace's project delivery framework. The focus on DFMA and technical aspects provides a specialized skill set that is increasingly in demand, offering strong career growth potential within both Mace and the broader construction industry.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role, implying a dynamic work environment that balances office-based coordination with potential site visits. The office will likely be a project-specific site office or a regional Mace office in Riyadh.

Office Location(s): Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This is a major metropolitan area with extensive infrastructure development, offering a vibrant professional setting.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The office environment will foster collaboration, with designated meeting rooms, potentially open-plan areas for team interaction, and shared project spaces. Access to IT infrastructure and communication tools will be essential.

• Project Tools & Technology: Expect access to standard office software, project management platforms, and potentially specialized design review or BIM software. The team will rely on digital tools for communication, documentation, and progress tracking.

• Team Interaction: Regular interaction with a diverse project team, including engineers, architects, contractors, and client representatives, will be a key aspect of the daily work experience.

Work Schedule: The standard 40-hour work week (Monday-Friday) will be the baseline, but the demanding nature of large-scale construction projects may necessitate flexibility, including occasional extended hours or weekend work to meet critical deadlines or address urgent issues.

📝 Enhancement Note: As an on-site role in a major project, the environment will be fast-paced and require adaptability. The emphasis on collaboration and the use of digital tools means that effective communication and proficiency with technology are key to success.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Initial Screening: A review of your CV and application by HR to assess basic qualifications, experience, and eligibility (including visa requirements).

2. Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the Design Manager or a senior project leader to delve into your technical expertise, DFMA knowledge, project experience, and understanding of construction processes. Be prepared to discuss specific examples from your career.

3. Technical Assessment/Case Study: You may be asked to complete a technical exercise or present a case study from your portfolio. This could involve reviewing a sample design, proposing solutions to a DFMA challenge, or explaining how you managed a complex interface.

4. Team/Stakeholder Interview: An opportunity to meet other members of the project team or key stakeholders. This assesses your cultural fit, collaboration style, and communication skills.

5. Final Interview & Offer: A concluding interview with senior management, followed by a formal offer if successful.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Achievements: For each project in your portfolio, clearly state the problem, your solution, and the quantifiable results (e.g., "Reduced assembly time by 15%," "Identified cost savings of X amount through DFMA optimization").

• Showcase DFMA Application: Dedicate specific sections to projects where you actively applied DFMA. Detail the design changes, manufacturing benefits, and assembly efficiencies. Use visuals like diagrams or photos.

• Highlight Technical Rigor: Present examples of your technical review process. Show how you identified potential issues in drawings and specifications and what steps you took to resolve them.

• Structure for Clarity: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or by the skills demonstrated (DFMA, Technical Review, Coordination). Use clear headings and concise descriptions.

• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize experience relevant to large-scale mixed-use developments and your understanding of the Saudi Arabian construction context.

Challenge Preparation:

• DFMA Scenarios: Practice walking through common DFMA challenges, such as optimizing a structural element for modular construction or resolving an interface between precast concrete and steel framing.

• Technical Problem-Solving: Be ready to analyze a set of architectural or structural drawings and identify potential constructability issues.

• Coordination Scenarios: Prepare to explain how you would manage conflicting design requirements between different disciplines (e.g., MEP vs. structural).

• Company Research: Understand Mace's values, its approach to projects like the one in Riyadh, and its commitment to DFMA and innovation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to assess both technical competence and practical application. A well-curated portfolio that clearly demonstrates your ability to implement DFMA principles and manage technical aspects of design in large projects will be critical for success. Be prepared to articulate your contributions with specific data and examples.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design Software: Familiarity with common CAD and BIM software such as AutoCAD, Revit, Navisworks, and potentially others used for 3D modeling and clash detection.

• Project Management Software: Experience with platforms like Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or similar for project scheduling, tracking, and reporting.

• Collaboration Platforms: Proficiency in using tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or dedicated project collaboration portals for communication and document sharing.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Spreadsheet Software: Advanced skills in Microsoft Excel for data analysis, reporting, and creating dashboards.

• Data Visualization Tools: Exposure to tools like Power BI or Tableau could be beneficial for creating insightful reports on design progress and compliance.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design data integrates with broader project management systems and potentially client management platforms is advantageous.

• Familiarity with document management systems (e.g., Aconex, SharePoint) is essential for managing design documentation.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with industry-standard design and project management software is expected. The ability to leverage these tools for data analysis, reporting, and effective collaboration will be key to success in this role, particularly in managing complex design information and tracking progress.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: A paramount value, expecting all team members to prioritize safety in all design and coordination activities, ensuring designs are inherently safe to manufacture, handle, and construct.

• Client Focus: A commitment to delivering on project promises by ensuring designs meet client requirements, quality standards, and contractual obligations, fostering long-term client relationships.

• Integrity: Operating with honesty and ethical conduct, ensuring all design decisions and reviews are aligned with compliance obligations and best practices.

• Create Opportunity: Encouraging continuous improvement in design processes, embracing innovation (like DFMA), and supporting the professional development of team members to excel.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expect a highly collaborative environment where the design team works seamlessly with construction, commercial, procurement, and client teams. Open communication channels and proactive engagement are key.

• Process Review Culture: A willingness to engage in regular design reviews, workshops, and feedback sessions to refine processes and improve project outcomes. Constructive feedback is encouraged.

• Knowledge Sharing: An environment that promotes sharing best practices, lessons learned, and insights related to DFMA, technical challenges, and project execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: Mace's core values are deeply embedded in its operational approach. Candidates should demonstrate how their work ethic and professional conduct align with these values, particularly in how they approach safety, client satisfaction, ethical decision-making, and continuous improvement within a project delivery context.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Integrating DFMA in a Traditional Environment: Overcoming potential resistance to new methodologies and ensuring widespread adoption of DFMA principles across diverse design and construction teams.

• Managing Complex Interfaces: Successfully coordinating and resolving intricate technical interfaces between numerous disciplines and specialized manufacturers on a mega-project.

• Ensuring Compliance and Quality: Balancing the drive for efficiency and innovation with strict adherence to project specifications, contractual terms, and local regulations in Saudi Arabia.

• Rapid Project Pace: Adapting to the high demands and fast-paced environment of a large-scale, high-profile development program, requiring effective time management and prioritization.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• DFMA Specialization: Opportunities to attend advanced workshops, gain certifications, and become a recognized expert in Design for Manufacture and Assembly.

• Mega-Project Exposure: Gaining invaluable experience managing design aspects of one of Saudi Arabia's largest and most complex development programs.

• Cross-Disciplinary Skill Building: Developing a comprehensive understanding of various engineering disciplines, construction methods, and project management functions.

• Leadership Development: Potential to grow into leadership roles, mentoring junior team members and managing larger design coordination efforts.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents significant challenges that are inherently tied to its growth potential. By navigating these complexities, professionals can develop highly sought-after skills and advance their careers within Mace and the broader construction industry.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• DFMA Implementation: "Describe a specific project where you implemented DFMA principles. What were the key design modifications, and what were the measurable benefits in terms of manufacturing and assembly?" Prepare to discuss your role in identifying opportunities, collaborating with manufacturers, and overseeing the integration of these changes.

• Technical Review Process: "Walk me through your process for reviewing a complex technical submission. What are the critical elements you look for, and how do you typically document and resolve issues related to buildability or manufacturability?" Be ready to provide examples of challenging reviews you've handled.

• Interface Management: "Describe a time you had to manage a critical interface between two different design disciplines or between factory-produced components and on-site work. What was the challenge, and how did you ensure a smooth resolution?" Focus on your communication, problem-solving, and risk mitigation strategies.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Mace Values: "How do you see yourself embodying Mace's values of 'Safety First,' 'Client Focus,' 'Integrity,' and 'Create Opportunity' in the context of this Assistant Design Manager role?" Prepare specific examples of how you've demonstrated these values in previous roles.

• Team Collaboration: "This role requires extensive collaboration. How do you approach working with diverse teams, including engineers, architects, contractors, and off-site manufacturers, to achieve common project goals?" Discuss your communication style and experience in cross-functional environments.

• DFMA in Saudi Arabia: "What are your thoughts on the current adoption and future potential of DFMA and off-site construction in the Saudi Arabian market, particularly for large-scale developments like this?" Show your awareness of the local context.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Start with Impact: Begin your portfolio presentation by highlighting your most relevant DFMA success stories or significant technical coordination achievements.

• Quantify Everything: For each case study, use numbers and data to demonstrate the impact of your work (e.g., percentage improvements, cost savings, reduction in defects).

• Focus on Process: Clearly explain your methodology for design review, DFMA integration, and interface management. Show how you achieve results.

• Visual Aids: Use clear diagrams, photos, or simplified drawings to illustrate complex design challenges and solutions.

• Be Ready for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about any project or process you present. Be prepared to elaborate on challenges, decisions, and outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Thorough preparation, focusing on quantifiable achievements and demonstrating a deep understanding of DFMA principles and technical coordination, will be key. Tailoring your responses and portfolio to Mace's values and the specific demands of a mega-project in Saudi Arabia will significantly enhance your application.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Assistant Design Manager (DFMA/Technical) position:

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

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your CV and any accompanying portfolio highlights your experience with DFMA, technical review, and large-scale construction projects. Tailor your CV to include keywords from the job description such as "DFMA," "buildability," "manufacturability," and "technical submissions."

• Resume Optimization: Clearly articulate your 5-10 years of relevant experience, focusing on achievements and responsibilities that align with the core duties and requirements. Use strong action verbs and quantify your accomplishments wherever possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice answering behavioral and technical questions related to DFMA, design coordination, and problem-solving. Prepare a concise overview of your most relevant projects for discussion.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Mace's projects, values, and its commitment to innovation and sustainability. Understand the scale and nature of the major program in Saudi Arabia to demonstrate genuine interest and fit.

⚠️ 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.