Central & North QLD Design Manager & Project Manager Opportunities

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Central & North QLD Design Manager & Project Manager Opportunities

Company: AECOM

Location: Rockhampton, Queensland, Australia

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Infrastructure Project Management & Design

Date Posted: 04 March 2026

Experience Level: 10+ years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is a hybrid Design Manager and Project Manager position focused on transport infrastructure, specifically highways and road detailed design.

• It requires significant experience in leading and delivering end-to-end project lifecycles, from detailed design through to client outcomes.

• Key responsibilities include managing work packages, coordinating multidisciplinary teams across Australia and New Zealand, and serving as the primary client interface.

• The position emphasizes technical leadership in highway design, ensuring adherence to standards and best practices, and supporting the growth of AECOM's regional transport capability.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title mentions "Opportunities," the description focuses on specific roles within Central and North Queensland, particularly Rockhampton and Mackay, with potential for Townsville and Cairns. The role is positioned as a senior-level position requiring extensive experience in transport and highways.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and deliver transport infrastructure projects, with a strong emphasis on highways and road detailed design, ensuring high-quality outcomes.

• Own and manage assigned packages of work, taking full accountability for scope, program, technical delivery, and client satisfaction.

• Coordinate and collaborate effectively with AECOM's multidisciplinary design teams across Australia and New Zealand to ensure successful project execution.

• Act as the primary local client interface, cultivating and maintaining trusted relationships with government and infrastructure clients.

• Manage project delivery comprehensively, encompassing design management, resource allocation, program oversight, and technical coordination.

• Provide technical leadership and mentorship in transport and highway design, championing adherence to relevant industry standards and best practices.

• Support the strategic growth and development of AECOM's regional transport capability by strengthening delivery teams and mentoring emerging engineers.

• Contribute to business development activities by identifying opportunities and fostering client relationships in regional Queensland.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical design leadership and end-to-end project management, with a significant focus on client relationship management and team coordination across a broad geographical area (ANZ).

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While specific formal education requirements are not explicitly stated, a degree in Engineering (Civil or equivalent) or a related field is highly implied given the nature of transport infrastructure and design management.

Experience: Minimum of 10+ years of significant experience in relevant roles, demonstrating a strong track record in the transport and highways sector.

Required Skills:

• Proven experience as a Senior Project Manager, Design Manager, or Technical Project Leader within the transport infrastructure sector.

• Substantial detailed design experience specifically in highways and road infrastructure.

• Demonstrated ability to independently own, manage, and successfully deliver projects or significant work packages within larger infrastructure programs.

• Expertise in coordinating multidisciplinary design teams, particularly across multiple offices or geographical regions.

• Strong client engagement and stakeholder management capabilities, with a proven ability to build rapport and trust.

• Experience working directly with state government transport agencies (e.g., Department of Transport and Main Roads in Queensland) or similar major infrastructure clients.

• A deep understanding of project management methodologies, scope definition, program scheduling, and resource management.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in business development and identifying new project opportunities.

• Familiarity with AECOM's specific project delivery frameworks and systems.

• A passion for contributing to the development and growth of regional communities through infrastructure delivery.

• Skills in mentoring and developing junior engineering and project management staff.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis is on practical, demonstrated experience in delivering complex transport infrastructure projects, particularly from a design management and client-facing perspective. The "all applications will be considered" statement suggests a strong focus on relevant experience over strict adherence to formal qualifications.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase examples of successfully managed transport infrastructure projects, particularly highway or road design projects, detailing scope, budget, and timeline.

• Provide evidence of managing significant work packages, including documentation of scope management, program adherence, and technical delivery.

• Present case studies demonstrating the coordination of multidisciplinary teams and successful integration of various design elements.

• Include examples of client engagement strategies and how strong stakeholder relationships were built and maintained, leading to successful project outcomes.

Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate a structured approach to design management, including workflow design, quality assurance, and adherence to standards.

• Show proficiency in project management documentation, such as project plans, risk registers, stakeholder communication matrices, and progress reports.

• Provide examples of how processes were optimized for efficiency, cost-effectiveness, or improved technical outcomes in previous roles.

• Illustrate experience in resource planning and management to ensure timely and effective project execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, a portfolio should highlight project successes, leadership in design and project management, and the ability to navigate complex client relationships and multidisciplinary environments, rather than specific system configurations.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: While not explicitly stated, for a Senior Project/Design Manager with 10+ years of experience in transport infrastructure in regional Queensland, Australia, the expected salary range would typically be between AUD $140,000 - $200,000 per annum. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for similar roles in engineering consulting firms in Australia, considering the specialized nature of transport infrastructure and the leadership responsibilities involved. Factors such as specific project complexity, client portfolio, and the candidate's negotiation strength would influence the final offer.

Benefits:

• Flexible work arrangements, including alternative start/finish times, part-time options, job-sharing, and hybrid work models.

• Opportunity to purchase up to 6 weeks of additional annual leave per year.

• Flex public holidays: ability to swap standard public holidays for others that better suit personal needs.

• Continuous learning and growth opportunities, including lunch and learns, professional development courses, and global career mobility.

• Financial study assistance and 5 days of paid study leave to support further education and professional development.

• Access to AECOM's national design network and specialist expertise across ANZ.

Working Hours: This is a full-time role, generally equating to 40 hours per week. However, AECOM offers flexible work arrangements, allowing for potential adjustments to daily start and finish times to accommodate personal needs while ensuring project deliverables are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is an estimate based on Australian market rates for senior-level roles in engineering consulting. The benefits package is substantial and emphasizes work-life balance and professional development, which are attractive to experienced professionals.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: AECOM operates within the Engineering, Construction, and Consulting sectors, with a specific focus on Transportation and Infrastructure. They are a global leader in providing end-to-end infrastructure solutions.

Company Size: AECOM is a Fortune 500 company, indicating a large, established, and globally recognized organization with a significant workforce. This size offers stability, extensive resources, and broad career opportunities.

Founded: AECOM was founded in 1910 (as the Armer-Greeley Company, evolving through mergers and acquisitions to become AECOM). This long history signifies deep expertise, a strong market presence, and a proven track record in the industry.

Team Structure:

• The role is within AECOM's Transport and Infrastructure team, specifically focusing on regional Queensland.

• The team likely comprises a mix of senior technical specialists, project managers, designers, and support staff, all collaborating to deliver major infrastructure projects.

• Reporting is expected to be to a senior Area Manager or Regional Director, with direct interaction with clients and potentially oversight of junior team members.

Methodology:

• AECOM emphasizes a data-driven approach to project delivery, leveraging technical expertise and digital tools for planning, design, and construction management.

• Workflow optimization and process improvement are core to their operations, aiming for efficient and high-quality project outcomes.

• Automation and advanced technologies are increasingly integrated into their project lifecycle to enhance performance and deliver sustainable solutions.

• They promote a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement to tackle complex infrastructure challenges.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's culture is characterized by its global reach, commitment to sustainability (ESG), diversity and inclusion, and a strong focus on delivering impactful infrastructure projects. The regional Queensland roles emphasize local community impact while leveraging global expertise.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior-level position, straddling both Design Management and Project Management. It is ideal for experienced professionals seeking to lead significant projects, manage client relationships, and contribute to the strategic growth of AECOM's regional presence. It sits above a standard project engineer or senior engineer role, requiring leadership, strategic thinking, and business acumen.

Reporting Structure: The role will likely report to a higher-level manager within AECOM's regional transport division, such as an Area Manager or a Director of Operations/Transport. This structure provides a clear line of accountability and access to senior leadership for strategic guidance and support.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager & Project Manager will have a direct impact on the successful delivery of critical transport infrastructure projects, which are vital for regional economic development, community connectivity, and public safety in Central and North Queensland. Their work will influence project quality, budget adherence, client satisfaction, and AECOM's reputation in the region.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to move into more senior leadership roles, such as Regional Manager, Director of Transport, or broader business unit leadership within AECOM.

• Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific areas of transport infrastructure or project management, potentially leading to principal or chief technical advisor roles.

• Global Mobility: AECOM's global presence offers opportunities for international assignments or collaborations, allowing for exposure to diverse projects and markets.

• Mentorship & Development: The role involves mentoring junior staff, which is a key development area. AECOM also provides structured professional development programs, training, and study leave to support career progression.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a significant step for experienced professionals, offering both immediate impact and long-term career development within a major global engineering firm. The emphasis on regional growth suggests opportunities for shaping local operations and client portfolios.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: AECOM offers a hybrid work environment. This means the position involves a combination of working from an AECOM office (likely in Rockhampton or Mackay) and working remotely. This model aims to balance the need for in-person collaboration and team cohesion with the flexibility desired by many professionals.

Office Location(s): Primary locations are specified as Rockhampton and Mackay, with potential opportunities in Townsville and Cairns, all in regional Queensland, Australia. These locations offer a different lifestyle compared to major metropolitan centers, often with a stronger sense of community and access to outdoor activities.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace environment will be collaborative, requiring close interaction with local AECOM teams, national design centers, and importantly, clients.

• Access to AECOM's standard suite of project management and design software, communication tools, and office facilities will be provided.

• The environment encourages the exchange of ideas and best practices, both within the regional team and across the wider AECOM network.

Work Schedule: The standard work week is 40 hours, but AECOM promotes flexible work arrangements, allowing for adjustments to daily schedules. This flexibility is crucial for managing project demands while supporting work-life balance, particularly in regional settings.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model and regional focus suggest an environment that balances professional demands with a regional lifestyle. The emphasis on collaboration means that even with hybrid work, regular in-person engagement with colleagues and clients will be expected.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: An HR or recruitment specialist will likely review applications to assess against core requirements.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the hiring manager (potentially Michael Arri or a designated senior leader) to assess technical fit, experience, and alignment with role responsibilities. This may involve in-depth questions about project delivery and design management.

• Technical/Panel Interview: This stage may involve a panel of senior engineers or project managers to delve deeper into technical capabilities, project leadership, and problem-solving skills. Case studies or hypothetical scenarios related to highway design and project challenges may be presented.

• Portfolio Review: Candidates will be expected to present their portfolio, showcasing relevant projects, their role, and the outcomes achieved. This is a critical step to demonstrate practical experience and impact.

• Final Interview/Offer: A final discussion, potentially with senior leadership, to confirm fit and extend an offer.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Project Selection: Curate a portfolio that prominently features your most significant contributions to transport infrastructure projects, especially highways and road design. Highlight projects where you held key Design Manager or Project Manager responsibilities.

• Quantify Impact: For each project, clearly articulate your role, the project's objectives, the challenges faced, your specific contributions (e.g., design solutions, management strategies), and the quantifiable outcomes (e.g., cost savings, schedule adherence, quality improvements, client satisfaction).

• Process Demonstration: Showcase your approach to design management, project planning, risk mitigation, stakeholder engagement, and team coordination. Use visual aids like process diagrams or flowcharts if appropriate.

• Client Focus: Emphasize your experience in client interface and stakeholder management, providing examples of how you built strong relationships and managed expectations.

• Conciseness: Prepare a presentation that is clear, concise, and targeted to the role's requirements. Focus on the most impactful projects and achievements.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for scenario-based questions asking how you would handle specific project challenges, such as managing scope creep, resolving design conflicts, addressing resource constraints, or mitigating project risks.

• Practice articulating your problem-solving approach, emphasizing your use of data, collaboration, and established methodologies.

• Be ready to discuss your understanding of Australian transport infrastructure standards and regulatory environments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio and demonstrated experience suggests that candidates should prepare specific, detailed examples of their past work and leadership, ready to be presented and discussed in detail.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency with industry-standard project management tools such as Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or similar platforms for scheduling, resource allocation, and program management will be essential.

• Design Software: While not a primary design role, familiarity with the output and integration of design software like AutoCAD, Civil 3D, or Bentley's OpenRoads is beneficial for understanding design coordination and deliverables.

• Collaboration Platforms: Experience with tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for communication and collaboration across dispersed teams.

• Document Management Systems: Familiarity with systems for managing project documentation, drawings, and reports.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Reporting Tools: Ability to generate and interpret project progress reports, financial reports, and performance dashboards.

• Data Analysis: Skills in analyzing project data to identify trends, risks, and opportunities for optimization.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: While not a sales role, understanding client management principles and potentially using CRM-like tools for tracking client interactions and project opportunities.

• Workflow Automation: Awareness of how automation can be applied to project management processes to improve efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role requires strong project management capabilities and the ability to work within a broader digital ecosystem. While deep technical design software skills might not be mandatory, understanding their outputs and integration is crucial.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity & Excellence: A commitment to delivering high-quality work with ethical practices, aligning with AECOM's reputation as a trusted infrastructure firm.

• Collaboration: Fostering teamwork and open communication, both within the local regional team and across AECOM's national and global network.

• Innovation & Sustainability: Embracing new technologies and approaches to deliver more efficient, sustainable, and impactful infrastructure solutions.

• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and exceeding client expectations, building long-term partnerships based on trust and delivery.

• Diversity & Inclusion: Contributing to an inclusive workplace where all individuals feel valued and respected, bringing their unique perspectives to problem-solving.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Proactively engaging with design specialists, project managers, and other disciplines across AECOM to ensure cohesive project delivery.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Maintaining open and transparent communication channels with clients, government agencies, and other relevant stakeholders.

• Mentorship & Knowledge Sharing: Actively participating in mentoring junior staff and sharing expertise to build collective capability within the regional team.

• Feedback Culture: Being open to constructive feedback and contributing to a culture where continuous improvement is encouraged.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's stated values of integrity, excellence, collaboration, innovation, sustainability, client focus, and diversity are key to understanding the expected work environment and professional conduct.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Geographical Dispersion: Managing projects and coordinating teams across multiple regional locations in Queensland, and potentially collaborating with teams across ANZ, requires strong communication and logistical skills.

• Client Relationship Management: Maintaining and strengthening relationships with government and infrastructure clients in a competitive market, ensuring AECOM remains a preferred partner.

• Technical Complexity: Delivering complex highway and road designs that meet stringent standards, environmental regulations, and community expectations.

• Resource Management: Optimizing the allocation of skilled personnel and resources across multiple projects in a regional setting, potentially facing competition for talent.

• Adapting to Regional Dynamics: Understanding and navigating the specific opportunities and challenges of delivering infrastructure in regional Queensland, which may differ from metropolitan projects.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Project Management Techniques: Access to AECOM's internal training and development programs for project management and leadership skills.

• Technical Specialization: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific areas of transport infrastructure design or management through specialized courses and project involvement.

• Industry Conferences & Networking: Participation in industry events to stay abreast of the latest trends, technologies, and best practices, and to expand professional networks.

• Mentorship Programs: Formal and informal mentorship opportunities with senior leaders within AECOM, supporting career progression and skill development.

• Global Exposure: Potential to engage with international projects or teams, broadening experience and perspective.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents significant challenges related to managing dispersed teams and complex projects, but these are balanced by robust opportunities for professional growth, skill enhancement, and career advancement within a global organization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Project Leadership: "Describe a complex transport infrastructure project you managed from detailed design to completion. What were the key challenges, how did you overcome them, and what was the final outcome?" Focus on your role in design management, scope control, program adherence, and client satisfaction.

• Team Coordination: "How have you managed multidisciplinary design teams across different locations? What strategies did you use to ensure effective communication and integrated delivery?" Be ready to discuss your approach to collaboration, conflict resolution, and leveraging diverse expertise.

• Client Engagement: "Walk us through a time you had to manage a difficult client relationship or a significant stakeholder expectation. How did you handle it, and what was the result?" Prepare examples demonstrating your interpersonal skills, negotiation abilities, and client-centric approach.

• Technical Acumen: "How do you ensure technical quality and adherence to standards in highway design projects? What is your approach to technical leadership and mentoring?" Discuss your understanding of relevant standards and your methods for quality assurance.

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about AECOM and our work in regional Queensland?" Show research into their projects, values, and strategic focus.

• "How do you foster a collaborative and inclusive team environment, especially in a hybrid or dispersed team setting?" Align your answer with AECOM's stated values of diversity and inclusion.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Structure your portfolio presentation around compelling narratives for 2-3 key projects. Clearly define the problem, your solution (management, design, coordination), and the positive impact/results.

• Visual Aids: Use concise slides with key metrics, project timelines, and relevant visuals (e.g., project maps, photos, simplified diagrams) to support your narrative.

• Focus on Impact: Quantify your achievements wherever possible (e.g., budget savings, schedule improvements, client feedback scores, reduction in design issues).

• Role Clarity: Clearly delineate your specific responsibilities and contributions within each project, especially where you acted as Design Manager or Project Manager.

• Tailor to AECOM: Highlight projects and experiences that align with AECOM's focus on transport infrastructure, regional development, and their values.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is likely to be rigorous, focusing heavily on demonstrated experience, leadership capabilities, and a clear understanding of project management and design coordination within the transport infrastructure sector.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on SmartRecruiters.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your most relevant experience in transport infrastructure, highways detailed design, project management, and design management. Specifically address the requirements for leading packages of work and client engagement.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly outlines your 10+ years of experience, using keywords from the job description such as "Design Manager," "Project Manager," "Transport Infrastructure," "Highways Detailed Design," "Client Interface," and "Multidisciplinary Coordination." Quantify achievements whenever possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions. Prepare specific examples for your portfolio presentation, focusing on projects that showcase your leadership, technical acumen, and client management skills.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research AECOM's recent projects in regional Queensland, their company values (especially regarding sustainability, diversity, and innovation), and their strategic goals for the transport sector. Understand their approach to hybrid work and regional development.

⚠️ 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.

---