Design Manager at AECOM

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager Company: AECOM Location: San Diego, California, United States Job Type: Full-time Category: Project Management / Design Management Date Posted: 2025-08-06T14:35:05.172 Experience Level: 5-10 Years Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

This role is critical for overseeing the end-to-end lifecycle of complex infrastructure and building projects, ensuring successful delivery from concept through to completion.
The Design Manager will be responsible for the strategic planning, coordination, and execution of projects, focusing on meeting client objectives, timelines, and budgetary constraints.
A key aspect of this position involves managing project teams, including senior engineers and specialized support staff, to ensure high-quality outputs and adherence to regulatory standards.
The role requires a strong understanding of project financials, risk management, and stakeholder communication to drive project success within the AECOM framework.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given AECOM's global infrastructure focus and the "Design Manager" title, this role likely spans various project types (transportation, environmental, buildings) and requires a blend of technical oversight, client relationship management, and financial acumen, aligning with senior project management responsibilities in large-scale engineering and design firms. The emphasis on "functionally and financially viable projects" points to a strong need for project controls and a deep understanding of project lifecycle economics.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

Lead and manage all phases of moderately to highly complex projects, from initial planning and design through to execution and closeout, ensuring alignment with project scope, objectives, and client requirements.
Develop and implement comprehensive project plans, including detailed schedules, resource allocation, and budget management, to ensure efficient project execution and on-time, within-budget delivery.
Oversee and guide multi-disciplinary project teams, including senior engineers, architects, and project support staff, providing technical direction and fostering a collaborative, high-performance environment.
Manage client relationships, acting as the primary point of contact for project-related matters, ensuring clear communication, managing expectations, and fostering long-term partnerships.
Ensure adherence to all applicable codes, regulations, and quality standards, implementing robust quality assurance processes throughout the project lifecycle.
Control project costs effectively, monitoring expenditures, managing change orders, and identifying potential risks and cost-saving opportunities to maintain financial viability.
Coordinate with procurement and estimating teams to ensure accurate cost projections, resource acquisition, and contract management.
Manage project risks, identifying potential issues, developing mitigation strategies, and implementing solutions to minimize impact on project timelines and budgets.
Facilitate regulatory approvals and permitting processes, ensuring compliance with all relevant governmental and environmental regulations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The description mentions managing "multiple services provided by regional IE offices" and projects involving "litigation, environmental protection, due diligence," indicating the need for a broad understanding of AECOM's service lines and the ability to navigate complex, multi-faceted projects. The mention of supervising "senior level engineers (all disciplines applicable)" highlights the leadership and technical oversight expected in this role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, or a closely related field is required.

Experience:

A minimum of 2 years of relevant project management experience is a baseline requirement.
A more substantial 8 years of architecture project management experience, specifically working on K-12 sites, is strongly preferred, indicating a need for specialized domain knowledge.
Experience in master planning is a preferred qualification, suggesting a requirement for strategic foresight and long-term project vision.
Previous experience as an owner's representative is highly valued, indicating an understanding of client-side project management needs and expectations.

Required Skills:

Project Management: Proven ability to manage all project phases from inception to completion, including planning, execution, monitoring, and closing.
Client Relationship Management: Skill in building and maintaining strong client relationships, understanding their needs, and ensuring satisfaction.
Team Leadership & Supervision: Experience in leading, motivating, and directing diverse project teams, including senior-level professionals.
Budget Management & Cost Control: Expertise in developing and managing project budgets, controlling costs, and ensuring financial objectives are met.
Scheduling & Coordination: Proficiency in creating and managing project schedules, coordinating activities across different disciplines, and ensuring timely progress.
Quality Assurance: Ability to implement and oversee quality control processes to ensure project deliverables meet high standards.
Regulatory Compliance: Understanding of and ability to navigate relevant building codes, environmental regulations, and permitting processes.

Preferred Skills:

Industry Certifications: Possess or be working towards certifications such as Certified Construction Manager (CCM) or Project Management Professional (PMP).
K-12 Project Experience: Specific experience managing architectural projects for K-12 educational facilities.
Master Planning: Experience in developing comprehensive master plans for complex developments.
Owner's Representative Experience: Familiarity with the owner's perspective in managing design and construction projects.
Risk Management: Ability to identify, assess, and mitigate project risks effectively.
Estimating & Procurement: Knowledge of project estimating techniques and procurement processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The preference for 8 years of K-12 experience and owner's representative experience suggests that candidates with a strong background in public sector projects or client-side management will be highly competitive. The mention of "litigation, environmental protection, due diligence" implies a need for candidates who can handle complex project scenarios and navigate potential legal or environmental challenges.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

Demonstrate successful management of 3-5 complex architectural or infrastructure projects, showcasing a range of responsibilities from initial concept to final handover.
Include case studies that highlight your ability to manage project scope, budget, and schedule effectively, with clear metrics for success (e.g., budget adherence, schedule completion, client satisfaction scores).
Showcase examples of your project planning documents, risk mitigation strategies, and quality control plans, illustrating your systematic approach to project delivery.
Present evidence of successful stakeholder management, including client communication protocols and team coordination strategies.

Process Documentation:

Provide examples of project management methodologies employed, such as Waterfall, Agile, or hybrid approaches, explaining their application in different project contexts.
Include documentation of your process for developing and managing project budgets, including cost tracking, forecasting, and reporting mechanisms.
Showcase your approach to risk assessment and mitigation, including risk registers, contingency planning, and issue resolution frameworks.
Demonstrate your process for managing project documentation, including design review cycles, change order management, and closeout procedures.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated, for a Design Manager role at a firm like AECOM, a portfolio that demonstrates proficiency in project management software (e.g., Primavera P6, MS Project, Procore) and an understanding of design collaboration tools (e.g., BIM software like Revit, Navisworks) would be highly advantageous. The emphasis on "functionally and financially viable projects" suggests a need to showcase how your management processes contributed to the project's overall success and return on investment.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Based on industry standards for a Design Manager with 5-10 years of experience in San Diego, CA, the estimated salary range is typically between $100,000 and $150,000 annually. This range can vary based on the specific complexity of projects managed, breadth of experience (especially K-12 and owner's rep), and any specialized certifications held.

Benefits:

Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, Dental, Vision insurance plans to support employee health and well-being.
Life and Disability Protection: Life Insurance, Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D), and Disability Benefits to provide financial security.
Paid Time Off & Leave: Paid Time Off (PTO) and various Leaves of Absence options for work-life balance and personal needs.
Ancillary Benefits: Voluntary Benefits, Perks, and Well-Being Resources to enhance employee welfare.
Employee Support: Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for confidential counseling and support, and Business Travel Insurance for peace of mind during work-related travel.
Retirement & Investment: Retirement Savings Plan and Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) to support long-term financial goals and employee ownership.
Recognition & Flexibility: Service Recognition Awards to acknowledge contributions and Flexible Work Options where applicable.

Working Hours:

The standard working hours are likely 40 hours per week, typical for a full-time, on-site position. However, project demands may require flexibility and occasional extended hours to meet critical deadlines or client needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is derived from aggregated data for Project Managers and Design Managers in the San Diego metropolitan area with 5-10 years of experience, cross-referenced with industry benchmarks for major engineering and construction consulting firms. The comprehensive benefits package listed reflects AECOM's stated offerings and is typical for large, publicly traded companies in the infrastructure sector.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry:

AECOM operates within the Engineering, Construction, and Consulting services industry, specifically focusing on infrastructure development and management. This sector is characterized by large-scale, complex projects, significant regulatory oversight, and a global client base, influencing the operations and project management methodologies employed.

Company Size:

AECOM is a large, global organization with over 50,000 employees. This means the Design Manager will be part of a vast network, offering opportunities for collaboration across diverse teams and geographies, but also requiring strong organizational skills to navigate a large corporate structure.

Founded:

AECOM was founded in 1910, giving it over a century of experience and a deep-rooted history in delivering critical infrastructure projects worldwide. This longevity suggests a stable, established company with a proven track record and a culture that values long-term vision and enduring client relationships.

Team Structure:

The Design Manager will likely be part of a regional or project-specific team, potentially within AECOM's Buildings + Places or Transportation business lines, depending on the project portfolio.
The reporting structure would typically involve reporting to a senior project director or a regional manager, with direct oversight of project-specific engineering, design, and support staff.
Cross-functional collaboration is a hallmark of AECOM's operations, requiring interaction with disciplines such as environmental science, geotechnical engineering, structural engineering, urban planning, and construction management.

Methodology:

AECOM emphasizes a data-driven approach to project management, utilizing robust project controls, risk assessment frameworks, and performance analytics to guide decision-making.
Workflow planning and optimization are central, with a focus on efficient project delivery, leveraging advanced technologies and best practices in design and engineering.
The company fosters a culture of innovation and continuous improvement, encouraging the adoption of automation and digital tools to enhance project efficiency and client outcomes.

Company Website:

https://www.aecom.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Given AECOM's scale and its role as a global infrastructure leader, the company culture likely emphasizes professionalism, technical excellence, and a commitment to sustainability and community impact. The "work with us, change the world" slogan reinforces a mission-driven approach. The size of the company means that opportunities for specialization and advancement within various business units are abundant.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level:

This role represents a mid-to-senior level position within the project management and design operations track. A Design Manager at AECOM is expected to handle significant project responsibilities, manage budgets and teams, and act as a key interface with clients and stakeholders. It signifies a transition from individual contributor or junior project roles to a leadership position with substantial impact.

Reporting Structure:

The Design Manager will typically report to a Senior Project Manager, Project Director, or a Practice Lead within a specific business unit (e.g., Buildings + Places, Transportation). They will, in turn, manage and provide technical guidance to a team of engineers, designers, project coordinators, and support staff dedicated to specific projects.

Operations Impact:

The Design Manager has a direct and significant impact on AECOM's revenue and profitability by ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget, fostering client satisfaction, and securing repeat business. Their effectiveness in managing project risks and quality directly influences client perception, AECOM's reputation, and its ability to win future contracts.

Growth Opportunities:

Operations Skill Advancement: Progression to Project Director, Program Manager, or Sector Lead roles, managing larger and more complex programs or portfolios of projects. Specialization in specific project types (e.g., large-scale transportation hubs, major urban developments) or technical domains.
Leadership Development: Opportunities to lead larger, more diverse teams, mentor junior staff, and develop strategic leadership capabilities through AECOM's internal training programs and potential external certifications.
Executive Potential: For exceptional performers, there are pathways to senior leadership positions within AECOM's business units, contributing to strategic planning, business development, and executive decision-making.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's commitment to "championing your growth and career ambitions" and their "award-winning training and development programs" suggest a structured approach to career progression. The global nature of the company provides ample opportunities for international experience and diverse project exposure, which are valuable for career advancement in the infrastructure sector.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type:

The position is based in San Diego, CA, and will likely operate from a professional AECOM office environment. This setting typically offers dedicated workspaces, meeting rooms, collaborative areas, and access to necessary office infrastructure and technology.

Office Location(s):

The primary work location is San Diego, California. AECOM may have multiple offices within the San Diego metropolitan area or a central hub serving the region. Accessibility via public transport or ample parking is usually available in such professional settings.

Workspace Context:

The workspace will be collaborative, requiring regular interaction with project teams, other discipline leads, and management. It will be equipped with standard office technology, including high-speed internet, printing, and access to AECOM's internal networks and project management software.
Opportunities for informal and formal team meetings, design reviews, and brainstorming sessions will be readily available, fostering a dynamic and interactive work environment.
The role may also involve site visits to project locations, requiring adaptability to different working environments, including construction sites, which necessitates appropriate safety protocols and personal protective equipment (PPE).

Work Schedule:

The typical work schedule is 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday. However, project-driven demands may necessitate flexibility, including occasional evening or weekend work to meet critical milestones, client meetings, or site inspections.

📝 Enhancement Note: As an "on-site" position, the emphasis is on in-person collaboration and direct oversight. The work environment is expected to be professional and conducive to focused work, with a balance of individual tasks and team-based activities. The potential for site visits underscores the practical, hands-on nature of managing infrastructure projects.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

Initial Screening: A recruiter or hiring manager will review applications to assess qualifications against the job requirements.
Technical/Behavioral Interviews: Candidates will likely undergo one or more rounds of interviews with hiring managers and potential team members to evaluate their project management experience, technical knowledge, leadership style, and problem-solving abilities. Expect questions related to past project successes, challenges, and how you handled them.
Portfolio Review: A dedicated session may be scheduled for candidates to present their portfolio, detailing key projects, methodologies, and outcomes. This is a crucial stage to demonstrate your capabilities.
Case Study/Assessment: Some roles may include a case study or a specific assessment designed to evaluate your approach to a typical project management scenario, including planning, risk assessment, or problem-solving.
Final Interview: A final interview with senior leadership may occur to assess cultural fit and strategic alignment with AECOM's goals.

Portfolio Review Tips:

Curate Select Projects: Choose 3-5 of your most relevant and impactful projects, ideally showcasing experience with K-12 or similar complex projects, master planning, and owner's representative roles if applicable.
Structure Your Case Studies: For each project, clearly outline the objectives, your role and responsibilities, the challenges faced, the strategies and processes you implemented, and the quantifiable results achieved (e.g., budget savings, schedule improvements, quality enhancements, client satisfaction).
Highlight Process & Tools: Demonstrate your command of project management methodologies (e.g., PMI, PRINCE2) and your proficiency with relevant software (MS Project, Primavera P6, BIM tools, Procore).
Showcase Leadership: Emphasize your team management approach, how you motivated teams, resolved conflicts, and fostered collaboration.
Focus on Impact: Quantify your achievements whenever possible. Use metrics to showcase your contribution to project success and AECOM's business objectives.

Challenge Preparation:

Scenario-Based Questions: Prepare for questions that present hypothetical project challenges (e.g., budget overruns, scope creep, team conflicts) and ask how you would address them. Focus on your problem-solving process, decision-making criteria, and communication strategies.
Technical Knowledge: Be ready to discuss design principles, construction methods, relevant building codes, and project lifecycle phases common in infrastructure and building projects.
Company Research: Understand AECOM's mission, values, recent projects, and strategic goals. Be prepared to articulate how your skills and experience align with the company's objectives and the specific requirements of the Design Manager role.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is likely to be rigorous, reflecting AECOM's position as a global leader. Candidates should prepare to discuss their leadership style, decision-making framework, and how they manage complex stakeholder environments. Demonstrating an understanding of AECOM's commitment to sustainability and innovation will also be beneficial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

Project Management Software: Proficiency in industry-standard tools such as Microsoft Project, Oracle Primavera P6, or similar for project scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking.
BIM Software & Collaboration Platforms: Familiarity with Building Information Modeling (BIM) software like Autodesk Revit, Navisworks, and collaboration platforms such as Procore, Autodesk Construction Cloud, or similar for design coordination and project communication.
Financial Management Tools: Experience with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems or financial software for budget management, cost control, and financial reporting.

Analytics & Reporting:

Data Analysis Tools: Ability to utilize data analytics tools for project performance monitoring, risk assessment, and reporting. This may include advanced Excel functions, Tableau, Power BI, or similar business intelligence tools.
Reporting Dashboards: Experience creating and interpreting project dashboards to communicate key performance indicators (KPIs) to stakeholders, including schedule status, budget adherence, and risk levels.

CRM & Automation:

CRM Systems: While not directly customer-facing in a sales sense, familiarity with CRM principles for managing client relationships and project stakeholder data is beneficial.
Automation Tools: Understanding of how automation can be applied in project management workflows, such as automated reporting, task management, or communication triggers.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given AECOM's focus on delivering complex infrastructure, expertise in BIM and advanced project management software is crucial for efficiency and coordination. The ability to leverage data for informed decision-making and reporting is also a key expectation for a management role in this industry.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

Integrity and Professionalism: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all project dealings and professional conduct.
Excellence and Innovation: Driving for superior project outcomes through technical expertise, creative problem-solving, and embracing new technologies.
Collaboration and Teamwork: Fostering a cooperative environment where diverse teams work together effectively to achieve common goals.
Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and exceeding client expectations, building lasting relationships through reliable service delivery.
Sustainability and Safety: Commitment to environmentally responsible practices and ensuring the safety and well-being of employees and the public throughout project lifecycles.

Collaboration Style:

AECOM promotes a highly collaborative environment where interdisciplinary teams work closely together. The Design Manager will be expected to lead by example, encouraging open communication, constructive feedback, and knowledge sharing among team members.
Effective stakeholder management is key, requiring proactive engagement with clients, regulatory bodies, contractors, and internal departments to ensure alignment and smooth project progression.
A culture of continuous improvement and learning is encouraged, with opportunities for team members to share best practices and contribute to process enhancements.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's values likely align with those of a large, reputable global firm, emphasizing quality, client satisfaction, and employee development. The emphasis on collaboration is critical for managing complex, multi-disciplinary projects, and candidates should demonstrate strong interpersonal and communication skills.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

Managing Complex Project Variables: Successfully navigating the inherent complexities of large-scale infrastructure projects, including diverse stakeholder needs, regulatory hurdles, and potential environmental impacts.
Balancing Competing Priorities: Effectively managing multiple project demands, client expectations, team needs, and financial targets simultaneously.
Adapting to Evolving Technologies: Staying abreast of and integrating new design, construction, and project management technologies to maintain a competitive edge.
Geographic and Stakeholder Diversity: Coordinating efforts and managing expectations across potentially diverse geographic locations and varied stakeholder groups.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

Advanced Project Management Training: Access to AECOM's comprehensive training programs, potentially including certifications in project management methodologies, leadership development, and specialized technical skills.
Industry Conferences & Seminars: Opportunities to attend industry events and forums to stay updated on trends, network with peers, and gain insights into best practices in design and construction management.
Mentorship and Leadership Programs: Participation in mentorship programs and leadership development tracks designed to cultivate future leaders within the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for a senior role in the infrastructure sector, requiring strong problem-solving skills and adaptability. The growth opportunities are significant, given AECOM's global reach and commitment to employee development, offering clear pathways for career advancement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

Operations Strategy: "Describe your approach to developing a comprehensive project plan for a large-scale K-12 educational facility, from initial concept through to final closeout. What key elements would you prioritize, and how would you ensure alignment with AECOM's standards?" (Prepare to discuss phases, risk assessment, stakeholder engagement, and quality control).
Collaboration & Stakeholder Management: "How do you manage communication and resolve conflicts with diverse stakeholders, including clients, design teams, contractors, and regulatory agencies? Provide an example of a challenging stakeholder situation you navigated successfully." (Focus on communication strategies, negotiation skills, and conflict resolution techniques).
Problem-Solving: "Imagine a project is facing significant budget overruns due to unforeseen site conditions. What steps would you take to address this situation, and how would you communicate the impact and proposed solutions to the client and internal management?" (Prepare to detail your problem-solving methodology, financial analysis, and communication protocols).

Company & Culture Questions:

Culture Fit: "AECOM's mission is to 'deliver a better world.' How does your personal approach to project management align with this mission, and how do you ensure your projects contribute positively to communities?" (Research AECOM's sustainability initiatives and community impact projects).
Team Dynamics: "Describe your ideal project team environment. How do you foster collaboration and motivate team members to achieve peak performance, especially when working on complex, multi-disciplinary projects?" (Discuss your leadership style, communication methods, and team-building strategies).
Impact Measurement: "How do you measure the success of your projects beyond budget and schedule adherence? What metrics do you use to assess overall project impact and client satisfaction?" (Prepare to discuss KPIs related to quality, client feedback, safety records, and long-term value).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

Storytelling: Frame each project case study as a narrative, highlighting the challenge, your strategic approach, the implementation of your processes, and the successful outcome.
Visual Aids: Use clear, concise visuals (charts, timelines, diagrams) to illustrate project scope, progress, and key performance indicators. Avoid overly dense text.
Quantify Results: Emphasize the tangible benefits of your management, such as cost savings achieved, schedule acceleration, risk reduction, or improvements in quality and safety.
Process Demonstration: Be prepared to walk through key documents or processes, such as a project schedule, risk register, or budget report, to demonstrate your practical application of project management principles.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with specific AECOM project types and demonstrate an understanding of the company's operational philosophy. Highlighting experience with public sector clients and complex regulatory environments will be advantageous.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

Submit your application through the provided link on the AECOM careers portal.
Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and cover letter to specifically highlight your project management experience, particularly any relevant work on K-12 sites, master planning, or owner's representative roles as mentioned in the preferred qualifications. Emphasize your ability to manage complex projects from inception to completion.
Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly lists your years of experience, educational background, and any relevant certifications (CCM, PMP). Use strong action verbs to describe your responsibilities and achievements, quantifying results wherever possible to demonstrate your impact on project success.
Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your project management methodologies, leadership style, and problem-solving approaches. Prepare specific examples from your past experience that showcase your ability to manage budgets, schedules, teams, and client expectations effectively.
Company Research: Thoroughly research AECOM's project portfolio, values, and recent achievements. Understand their commitment to "delivering a better world" and be ready to discuss how your contributions align with these overarching 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.

Design Manager