Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager Company: NSW Department of Education Location: Eveleigh, New South Wales, Australia Job Type: Temporary Full-Time (up to November 2029) Category: Operations - Infrastructure Planning & Design Date Posted: 2025-08-22 Experience Level: 5-10 Years Remote Status: Hybrid (Flexible working arrangements available)

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive strategic site masterplanning and acquisition analysis for educational facilities, ensuring alignment with educational needs and urban design principles.
• Coordinate urban design, landscape design, and internal "block and stacks" for Business Case approval and project definition.
• Provide expert design management for educational and built form considerations, leveraging digital technologies for site analysis and 3D modeling.
• Foster cross-functional collaboration within a large, complex organization with multiple stakeholders to facilitate project delivery.
• Uphold the Department's commitment to public education and Aboriginal education policies.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is critical in the initial stages of school infrastructure projects, focusing on the foundational design and planning that impacts the long-term functionality and educational outcomes of school facilities. The emphasis on masterplanning, urban design, and digital tools positions this as a key operational role within the Infrastructure Services unit.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate site masterplanning, acquisition analysis, urban design, and landscape design for school projects.
• Facilitate the delivery of education excellence by adhering to the School Infrastructure Pattern Book and Education Facilities Standards Guide (EFSG).
• Provide expert design management concerning educational and built form design considerations and principles.
• Develop and manage design briefs for new schools and upgrades, ensuring alignment with business case requirements.
• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including Planning and Delivery, to establish project definitions and design parameters.
• Utilize digital technology and software for advanced 3D modeling and comprehensive site analysis.
• Manage and mentor design teams, fostering a collaborative and high-performance environment.
• Ensure compliance with relevant architectural and construction standards, as well as government policies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of strategic planning, design oversight, and team leadership. The role requires a deep understanding of educational facility design principles and the ability to translate these into actionable plans that influence project scope and execution. The emphasis on "design briefs" and "business case approval" signifies a crucial operational function in the project lifecycle.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Relevant architectural qualifications are essential.
• A strong understanding and commitment to the value of public education are required.

Experience:

• Minimum 5-10 years of experience in leading and managing teams within large, complex organizations.
• Proven experience in masterplanning for large-scale projects.
• Significant experience working in a cross-functional environment with multiple stakeholders.
• Demonstrated expertise in using digital technology and software for 3D modeling and site analysis.

Required Skills:

• Leadership & People Management: Demonstrated ability to lead, mentor, and manage design teams.
• Masterplanning & Urban Design: Expertise in site masterplanning, urban design, and landscape design principles.
• Digital Design Tools: Proficiency in 3D modeling and site analysis software (e.g., Revit, AutoCAD, GIS, Lumion).
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Proven ability to work effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders across different business units.
• Project Definition & Briefing: Skill in developing comprehensive design briefs and contributing to business case development.
• Commitment to Public Education: Understanding and advocacy for public education values and policies.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in the education sector or public infrastructure projects.
• Knowledge of the School Infrastructure Pattern Book and EFSG.
• Familiarity with government procurement and project delivery frameworks in New South Wales.
• Understanding of Aboriginal Education Policy and partnership agreements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills emphasize a blend of technical design expertise, strategic thinking, and strong interpersonal and management capabilities, essential for navigating complex government projects and stakeholder landscapes.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 complex masterplanning projects, detailing the scope, challenges, and outcomes.
• Include examples of urban design and landscape design strategies implemented for public or large-scale developments.
• Demonstrate proficiency in digital design tools through visual examples of 3D modeling, site analysis, and data visualization.
• Present case studies that highlight your experience in developing design briefs and contributing to business case development for significant projects.
• Illustrate your approach to stakeholder engagement and cross-functional collaboration in project delivery.

Process Documentation:

• Examples of how you have developed and implemented design standards or guidelines.
• Documentation of your process for site analysis and feasibility studies.
• Evidence of managing design consultants and ensuring quality control throughout the design lifecycle.
• Case studies demonstrating how you have integrated feedback and requirements from diverse stakeholders into design solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare a portfolio that clearly articulates their design process, problem-solving methodologies, and ability to manage complex projects from inception to definition. Emphasis on visual representation of design work and clear articulation of process and outcomes will be crucial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: AUD $149,739 - $173,174 per annum (plus superannuation and leave loading)

Benefits:

• Flexible Working Arrangements: Opportunities for hybrid work and flexible scheduling to support work-life balance.
• 35-Hour Working Week: Standard full-time hours providing a consistent work schedule.
• Competitive Remuneration: Attractive base salary with potential for salary sacrificing.
• Superannuation: Employer's contribution to superannuation, a key component of long-term financial security.
• Leave Benefits: Annual leave loading, flex leave entitlements, generous holidays, and comprehensive leave conditions.
• Career Advancement: Opportunities for professional development, advancement, and mobility across the Department to support career growth.

Working Hours: 35 hours per week. Flexible working arrangements are available.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range positions this role at a senior level within the public sector, reflecting the significant responsibilities. The benefits package is standard for government roles in Australia, emphasizing work-life balance and career development.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Public Education and Government Infrastructure Company Size: Large (NSW Department of Education is one of Australia's largest public service employers) Founded: The NSW Department of Education has a long history, established to provide public education across the state.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager role is within the Design and Infrastructure Standards team, part of the School Infrastructure, Infrastructure Services business unit.
• This team comprises urban designers, architects, and landscape architects.
• The team collaborates closely with Planning and Delivery teams to shape project definitions and design briefs.
• It plays a crucial role at the commencement of projects for both new schools and upgrades to existing facilities.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Emphasis on site analysis and leveraging digital technologies for informed design decisions.
• Standards-Based Development: Adherence to the School Infrastructure Pattern Book and EFSG ensures consistency and quality across projects.
• Collaborative Workflow: Close integration with Planning and Delivery teams to ensure seamless project initiation and definition.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Active involvement in facilitating discussions and incorporating feedback from various internal and external stakeholders.

Company Website: https://education.nsw.gov.au/

📝 Enhancement Note: The Department of Education operates within a large public sector framework, implying a structured environment with a focus on policy adherence, stakeholder management, and delivering public services efficiently. The specific team is at the forefront of shaping the physical learning environments for students.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior Management / Specialist Lead This role represents a senior position within the infrastructure and design domain of the Department. It requires significant experience in managing complex design processes and teams, with a direct impact on the strategic planning and execution of school infrastructure projects.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will report into a leadership position within the Design and Infrastructure Standards team. They will likely have direct reports within the design function (architects, urban designers, landscape architects).

Operations Impact: This role has a substantial operational impact by shaping the initial vision and requirements for school infrastructure projects. Effective masterplanning and design brief development directly influence project scope, budget, timelines, and ultimately, the quality of the learning environments provided to students and educators.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in educational facility design, sustainable design, or urban planning within an educational context.
• Leadership Progression: Advance to a Director or Head of Design role within Infrastructure Services or similar departments.
• Cross-Departmental Mobility: Opportunities to move into project management, strategic planning, or policy development roles across the Department.
• Professional Development: Access to training, conferences, and potentially further qualifications to enhance skills in design, management, and public sector operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear path for career progression within the public sector, particularly for professionals interested in large-scale public infrastructure and its impact on community services like education.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid - combination of office-based work and potential for remote flexibility. Office Location(s): Primarily based in Eveleigh, New South Wales, with flexible working arrangements available.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role requires close interaction with internal teams (Planning, Delivery, other design specialists) and potentially external consultants.
• Technology-Rich: Access to digital design software, 3D modeling tools, and relevant analytics platforms is expected.
• Policy-Driven: Work will be guided by departmental policies, standards, and strategic objectives for school infrastructure.
• Impactful Work: The environment is focused on delivering tangible improvements to educational facilities across NSW.

Work Schedule: A standard 35-hour work week is provided, with flexibility offered to support work-life balance, which is beneficial for roles requiring detailed analysis and creative problem-solving.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role suggests a modern work environment that balances the need for in-person collaboration and focused individual work, common in design and planning roles.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application Review: Screening of resumes and cover letters for essential qualifications and experience.
• Portfolio Submission & Review: Candidates will likely be asked to submit a portfolio showcasing relevant design and masterplanning projects. This is a critical step.
• Interview Panel: Likely to involve a panel interview with key stakeholders from Infrastructure Services, including senior management and potentially peers from planning or delivery teams.
• Assessment Techniques: May include scenario-based questions, case studies related to design challenges, or presentations based on portfolio examples.
• Pre-Employment Checks: National Criminal History Check and a current Working with Children Check (WWCC) Clearance number are mandatory.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Focus on projects that best demonstrate your masterplanning, urban design, and digital modeling skills, particularly those with a clear impact.
• Showcase Process: Clearly articulate your design methodology, problem-solving approach, and how you managed stakeholders and constraints.
• Quantify Impact: Where possible, include metrics or specific outcomes that highlight the success of your designs (e.g., efficiency improvements, stakeholder satisfaction, alignment with educational goals).
• Visual Clarity: Ensure high-quality visuals (renderings, plans, site analyses) that are well-organized and easy to understand.
• Tailor to Role: Emphasize experience relevant to educational facilities, public sector projects, and cross-functional collaboration.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss your approach to developing design briefs for complex projects.
• Practice articulating your leadership style and experience managing teams of design professionals.
• Prepare examples of how you have used digital tools for site analysis and 3D modeling to inform design decisions.
• Understand the NSW Department of Education's mission and its approach to infrastructure development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is a crucial component for this role. Candidates should invest significant time in preparing a compelling and relevant portfolio that demonstrates their expertise and strategic thinking in design management.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Design & Modeling Tools:

• 3D Modeling Software: Proficiency in industry-standard tools like Revit, SketchUp, Rhino, or similar for architectural and urban design.
• CAD Software: Expertise in AutoCAD for drafting and detailed design work.
• GIS Software: Experience with Geographic Information Systems (e.g., ArcGIS) for site analysis, spatial data management, and environmental assessments.
• Visualization Software: Familiarity with rendering and visualization tools (e.g., Lumion, V-Ray, Enscape) to create compelling visual representations of designs.

Analytics & Reporting Tools:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret site analysis data, demographic information, and project performance metrics.
• Microsoft Office Suite: Advanced proficiency in Excel for data management and reporting, PowerPoint for presentations.

Collaboration & Project Management Tools:

• Project Management Software: Experience with platforms like MS Project, Asana, or similar for project planning and tracking.
• Collaboration Platforms: Familiarity with tools like Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, or similar for team communication and document sharing.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the role's focus on digital technology and site analysis, strong technical proficiency in relevant design and modeling software is a key expectation.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values (Inferred):

• Excellence in Public Service: Commitment to delivering high-quality infrastructure that serves the educational needs of the community.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Emphasis on working effectively across diverse teams and functions to achieve shared goals.
• Innovation & Efficiency: Encouraging the use of technology and best practices to improve design processes and project outcomes.
• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding professional standards and being accountable for design decisions and project delivery.
• Inclusivity: Commitment to diversity and inclusion, reflecting the Department's values.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Active participation in integrated project teams, working closely with planning, delivery, and educational stakeholders.
• Consultative Approach: Engaging with subject matter experts, consultants, and internal teams to gather input and refine designs.
• Knowledge Sharing: Fostering an environment where design knowledge and best practices are shared within the team and across the Department.

📝 Enhancement Note: The Department of Education likely fosters a culture that values professionalism, collaboration, and a commitment to public service, with a growing emphasis on leveraging technology for more efficient and effective outcomes.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Diverse Stakeholder Needs: Managing the expectations and requirements of various groups, including educators, students, parents, and government bodies.
• Complex Urban Contexts: Designing for dense urban environments or upgrading existing school sites with unique constraints.
• Adherence to Standards and Budgets: Ensuring designs meet all regulatory requirements, pattern books, and budget limitations while fostering creativity.
• Rapidly Evolving Educational Needs: Adapting designs to accommodate new pedagogical approaches and technological advancements in education.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Training: Access to professional development programs focused on urban planning, architectural design, digital technologies, and public sector project management.
• Industry Engagement: Opportunities to engage with industry bodies and attend conferences related to architecture, urban design, and educational facilities.
• Mentorship: Potential to be mentored by senior leaders within the Department or to mentor junior design staff, fostering leadership skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities to tackle significant design challenges within the public sector, offering substantial learning and growth potential for experienced design professionals.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Strategy: "Describe your process for developing a masterplan for a new school campus, considering factors like curriculum needs, site constraints, and community integration." Prepare to discuss how you would balance educational requirements with urban design principles.
• Leadership & Team Management: "How do you lead and motivate a team of architects and designers, especially when working on high-pressure, complex projects?" Be ready to provide examples of your leadership style and how you manage team performance.
• Problem-Solving: "Describe a time you encountered a significant design challenge on a large project. How did you approach it, what solutions did you implement, and what was the outcome?" Focus on your analytical skills and ability to find practical, efficient solutions.
• Stakeholder Management: "How do you engage with diverse stakeholders (e.g., educators, community members, other government departments) to ensure their needs are met in the design process?" Prepare examples of successful stakeholder engagement strategies.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Research the NSW Department of Education's strategic goals for infrastructure and its commitment to public education.
• Understand the role of the School Infrastructure unit and its impact on the state's educational landscape.
• Be prepared to articulate how your values align with the Department's mission and commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure your presentation logically, perhaps project by project or by skill set.
• For each project, clearly articulate the brief, your role, the challenges, your design process, the tools used, and the final outcome, highlighting any quantifiable results.
• Be ready to answer detailed questions about your design decisions and technical approach.
• Practice your presentation to ensure it is concise, engaging, and within any time limits.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong understanding of the public sector context, combined with a well-articulated portfolio and clear examples of leadership and problem-solving, will be key to success in the interview process.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided 'Apply Now' link on the careers portal.
• Resume & Cover Letter Preparation: Ensure your resume (max 5 pages) and cover letter (max 2 pages) are tailored to highlight your experience in masterplanning, design management, team leadership, and cross-functional collaboration. Specifically address how you meet the "About you" and "Essential requirements" sections.
• Portfolio Curation: Gather your most relevant design and masterplanning projects. Focus on showcasing your process, use of digital tools, and ability to translate strategic needs into design briefs. Prepare to present this portfolio if shortlisted.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with the NSW Department of Education's mission, values, and the specific work of the School Infrastructure unit. Understand their approach to educational facility design and any relevant policies.
• Application Submission: Follow the instructions for applicants, including submitting required documentation and preparing for potential pre-employment screening.

⚠️ 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.