Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager Company: UGL Limited Location: Australia Job Type: Full-time Category: Engineering & Design Operations (Renewable Energy) Date Posted: 2025-08-18T06:38:08.514 Experience Level: 5-10 years Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and coordinate the end-to-end design process for complex renewable energy projects, encompassing Solar Farms, Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), and Wind Farms.
• Drive the preparation and integration of concept designs for tender and bid submissions, ensuring alignment with project requirements and strategic objectives.
• Oversee constructability, monitor design resource allocation, and ensure seamless support for procurement, construction, and commissioning phases, optimizing operational efficiency.
• Champion adherence to stringent safety, environmental, and operational standards throughout the design lifecycle, minimizing operational risks and ensuring compliance.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with estimating, procurement, construction, and commissioning teams to deliver integrated and optimized project outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role sits within UGL's rapidly expanding New Energy business unit, focusing on renewable energy infrastructure. The Design Manager will be instrumental in translating client needs and tender requirements into robust, constructible, and compliant designs, directly impacting project feasibility and successful execution. The emphasis is on end-to-end design lifecycle management within a fast-paced, project-driven environment.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Prepare and coordinate comprehensive concept designs for tender and bid packages, ensuring all design elements are integrated, compliant, and strategically aligned with UGL's competitive positioning.
• Support the estimating team by generating accurate engineering quantities and developing Request for Quotation (RFQ) packages for critical design components and services during the bidding phase.
• Develop, implement, and maintain a detailed Design Plan throughout the tender or project lifecycle, ensuring all design phases, reviews, and sign-offs are meticulously managed and documented.
• Administer and maintain a robust design filing system, ensuring version control, accessibility, and traceability of all design documentation and deliverables.
• Ensure all necessary design reviews, verifications, and validations are rigorously planned, conducted, and their outcomes are effectively incorporated into the design, mitigating potential operational issues.
• Oversee and provide expert input on constructability, ensuring designs are practical, efficient, and cost-effective to build, thereby enhancing site operations.
• Monitor and optimize the effectiveness of design resources, ensuring efficient allocation and utilization to meet project timelines and budget constraints.
• Ensure the design team provides proactive and responsive support to procurement, construction, and commissioning activities, facilitating smooth project execution and issue resolution.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities highlight a blend of technical design leadership, project management, and cross-functional collaboration. The role requires a proactive approach to managing the design process from early concept through to construction support, with a strong emphasis on integration with other project functions. The expectation is for the Design Manager to not only produce designs but to actively manage the design process to ensure project success.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or an equivalent, recognized engineering qualification is mandatory for this role, ensuring a strong foundational understanding of power systems and design principles.

Experience:

• Demonstrated expertise in managing the design process for renewable energy projects, specifically including Commercial/Industrial Solar Farms and Battery Storage Systems (BESS), with a focus on process optimization and efficient delivery.
• Proven design and construction experience in High Voltage (HV) Power Systems projects, showcasing an ability to develop and deliver complex, high-impact electrical designs.
• Experience in developing concept designs for innovative energy solutions, demonstrating creativity and foresight in addressing evolving market needs and technological advancements.
• A strong understanding of safety and environmental compliance as it pertains to design and construction within the energy sector, ensuring adherence to regulatory frameworks and best practices.

Required Skills:

• Electrical Engineering Expertise: Deep technical understanding of electrical systems relevant to renewable energy infrastructure.
• Renewable Energy Project Design: Proven ability to design and manage design processes for Solar Farms, BESS, and Wind Farms.
• HV Power Systems: Solid experience in the design and implementation of high-voltage power systems.
• Concept Design Development: Skill in creating innovative and practical initial design concepts for complex projects.
• Safety & Environmental Compliance: Thorough knowledge of regulatory standards and best practices for design and construction safety and environmental impact.
• Design Software Proficiency: Competence in industry-standard design tools such as Autodesk CAD, PSCAD, and PVsyst, along with advanced capabilities in MS Office Suite.
• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication abilities for effective stakeholder engagement and team coordination.
• Negotiation Skills: Ability to negotiate effectively with internal and external stakeholders to achieve optimal design outcomes.
• Stakeholder Management: Proven track record in managing relationships and expectations with diverse project stakeholders.
• Team-Oriented Attitude: A collaborative approach, fostering a positive and productive team environment focused on shared operational goals.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with basic planning, supply chain management tools, and project management software.
• Familiarity with hybrid fossil fuel generation, hydrogen, and ammonia project design principles.
• Experience in managing design teams and coordinating multi-disciplinary design efforts.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize both technical engineering acumen and practical project execution experience within the renewable energy sector. The required skills are geared towards managing the design lifecycle effectively, ensuring compliance, and fostering collaboration to achieve project objectives. Proficiency in specific design software is a critical technical requirement.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Lifecycle Design Management: Showcase experience in managing design processes from initial concept and feasibility studies through to detailed design, construction support, and commissioning, demonstrating a full lifecycle approach.
• Process Improvement Case Studies: Present specific examples of how you have improved design processes, workflows, or methodologies to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, or improve design quality in previous projects. Quantify the impact where possible.
• System Implementation & Integration: Provide evidence of experience in integrating various design elements and systems (e.g., power systems, civil, structural) to create cohesive project designs.
• Risk Mitigation & Compliance Documentation: Include examples of how you have identified and mitigated design-related risks and ensured compliance with safety and environmental standards through robust documentation and review processes.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Demonstrate proficiency in designing and documenting clear, efficient design workflows, including stages for concept development, detailed design, review, and approval.
• Implementation & Automation: Show experience in implementing design processes and, where applicable, leveraging automation tools or techniques to streamline design tasks and improve accuracy.
• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Present methods used to measure the effectiveness of design processes, track design progress, identify bottlenecks, and implement data-driven improvements for enhanced operational performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated as a mandatory requirement to submit a portfolio, demonstrating the capabilities outlined here through resume achievements, interview discussions, and potentially a presentation during the interview process will be crucial. Candidates should be prepared to speak to their experience in managing design processes, implementing improvements, and ensuring compliance, using specific project examples.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Given the "5-10 years" experience level, the "Design Manager" title, and the location in Australia, a competitive salary range can be estimated. For a highly skilled Design Manager in the renewable energy sector in Australia, typical annual base salaries can range from AUD $120,000 to $180,000, depending on the specific state, the complexity of projects managed, and the candidate's proven track record.

Benefits:

• Discounted Private Health Insurance: Provides financial assistance for personal health coverage.
• Salary Continuance Insurance: Offers income protection in case of extended illness or injury.
• Flexible Work Arrangements: Supports work-life balance through adaptable scheduling where feasible.
• Salary Sacrifice: Allows employees to reduce their taxable income by allocating a portion of their salary to benefits like superannuation or car leasing.
• Novated Leasing: Facilitates car ownership with tax-efficient payment structures.
• A Strong Health and Safety Culture: Commitment to providing a safe working environment, crucial for operations in the energy sector.
• Dedicated Wellness Program: Initiatives focused on employee physical and mental well-being.
• Paid Parental Leave: Support for new parents during their leave period.
• Educational and Leadership Development Opportunities: Investment in employee growth through training, courses, and leadership programs.
• Access Endless Career Options and Pathways Through the CIMIC Group: Opportunities for internal mobility and career advancement within the broader CIMIC Group conglomerate.

Working Hours:

• The standard working hours are likely to be around 40 hours per week, typical for a full-time professional role. However, the mention of "Flexible Work Arrangements" suggests potential for some flexibility in scheduling, which could be beneficial for managing design workflows and personal commitments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on industry benchmarks for similar roles in Australia, considering the specialized nature of renewable energy design management. The comprehensive benefits package reflects a commitment to employee well-being and career development, which are significant attractors for skilled professionals in the operations and engineering fields.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry:

• UGL operates within the Engineering, Construction, and Maintenance services sector, with a significant and growing focus on the New Energy market. This positions them at the forefront of Australia's transition to renewable energy sources, including Solar, BESS, Wind, and emerging technologies like hydrogen. The operations within this unit are centered around project delivery, engineering excellence, and long-term asset management. Company Size:
• UGL Limited is part of the CIMIC Group, a large diversified construction, mining, and property group. While the specific size of the New Energy unit is not detailed, UGL as a whole employs a substantial number of people, indicating a well-resourced organization with established processes and a broad reach. This size offers stability and opportunities for professional development, while also potentially meaning more structured operational procedures. Founded:
• UGL has a long history, tracing its origins back over 100 years, evolving through various mergers and acquisitions. This extensive history suggests a company with deep industry experience, established operational methodologies, and a stable market presence. The emphasis on "New Energy" indicates a forward-looking strategy, integrating traditional engineering strengths with emerging technologies.

Team Structure:

• Operations Team Aspect 1: The Design Manager will likely lead a team of engineers and designers specializing in electrical, civil, and potentially mechanical disciplines relevant to renewable energy projects. The size of this team would vary depending on project demands.
• Operations Team Aspect 2: The Design Manager typically reports to a Project Director or a Senior Engineering Manager within the New Energy business unit. The team structure would be project-centric, with designers embedded within project teams.
• Operations Team Aspect 3: Close collaboration is expected with project management, estimating, procurement, construction, commissioning, and operations & maintenance (O&M) teams. This cross-functional synergy is critical for successful project delivery and operational continuity.

Methodology:

• Operations Process 1: Data analysis and insights are crucial for optimizing designs, assessing feasibility, and making informed decisions regarding technology selection and system configuration. This involves analyzing site conditions, energy yield data, grid connection requirements, and cost-benefit analyses.
• Operations Process 2: Workflow planning and optimization are central to the Design Manager's role, ensuring that design tasks are sequenced logically, resourced effectively, and delivered on time and within budget, adhering to rigorous project management principles.
• Operations Process 3: While not explicitly stated, the drive for efficiency in the New Energy sector implies a focus on leveraging technology and best practices for automation in design tasks, streamlining review processes, and ensuring seamless data transfer between design, procurement, and construction phases.

Company Website:

• https://ugl.taleo.net/careersection/public/jobdetail.ftl?job=264971&lang=en (This is the job application URL, the main company website is likely www.ugllimited.com)

📝 Enhancement Note: UGL's established presence combined with its strategic push into the New Energy market creates a dynamic environment. The culture likely balances a strong engineering tradition with an innovative, forward-thinking approach to renewable technologies. The team structure emphasizes project-based collaboration, requiring strong interpersonal and management skills from the Design Manager.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level:

• This role is positioned as an experienced professional, likely mid-to-senior level within the engineering and design function. It requires a blend of technical expertise, project leadership, and management capabilities. The Design Manager is responsible for the technical integrity and successful execution of design packages for significant renewable energy projects.

Reporting Structure:

• The Design Manager typically reports to a senior leader within the New Energy business unit, such as a Project Director, Engineering Manager, or Head of Design. They will, in turn, manage and guide a team of design engineers and technicians, fostering a collaborative and results-oriented operational environment.

Operations Impact:

• The Design Manager's impact on revenue and business decisions is substantial. Their ability to develop cost-effective, compliant, and constructible designs directly influences bid competitiveness, project profitability, and the overall success of UGL's New Energy ventures. Optimized designs reduce construction costs and improve operational efficiency, contributing directly to the company's bottom line and market position.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Progression could lead to roles like Principal Design Manager, Chief Engineer, or Technical Director, overseeing larger and more complex design portfolios, or specializing in specific renewable technologies.
• Industry Specialization: Deepening expertise in areas like grid integration, advanced BESS configurations, or emerging energy storage solutions can create specialized career pathways.
• Leadership Potential: Opportunities to manage larger design teams, mentor junior engineers, and take on broader project leadership roles within the New Energy unit or other divisions of UGL/CIMIC Group. This can include moving into Project Management or Business Development roles focused on technical solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for technical leaders in the renewable energy space. The growth potential is tied to increasing responsibility for project scope, team management, and strategic technical input within a high-growth sector. The backing of the CIMIC Group provides a broad platform for diverse career trajectories.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type:

• The role is described as "On-site," indicating a primary work location within a UGL office, likely in Western Australia, as specified in the job description. This environment is expected to be professional, collaborative, and equipped with the necessary resources for engineering design and project coordination.

Office Location(s):

• The specific office location is not detailed, but the role is based in Western Australia. UGL has a significant presence across Australia, so the office could be in Perth or another key operational hub in the state. Accessibility and proximity to project sites or key stakeholders may be factors.

Workspace Context:

• Workspace Aspect 1: The office environment will likely foster collaboration, with shared workspaces or meeting rooms designed for team discussions, design reviews, and cross-functional meetings with project teams.
• Workspace Aspect 2: Expect access to standard office technology, high-performance computing for design software, relevant project management tools, and communication platforms.
• Workspace Aspect 3: Opportunities for direct interaction with project managers, estimators, construction leads, and other engineering disciplines are integral to the role, promoting a cohesive project delivery approach.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is likely 40 hours per week. While "Flexible Work Arrangements" are mentioned as a benefit, the "On-site" nature of the role suggests that core hours will need to be met to ensure team collaboration and project responsiveness. Flexibility might apply to start/end times or the ability to work remotely on occasion, subject to operational needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement emphasizes the need for a physical presence for collaboration, hands-on design work, and direct engagement with project teams. The mention of flexible work arrangements suggests a modern employer approach, balancing operational demands with employee well-being.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Process Step 1: Initial screening of applications based on qualifications and experience. Candidates should tailor their resume to highlight relevant renewable energy design, HV power systems, and project management experience. Prepare to discuss key projects and achievements that demonstrate design leadership and process optimization.
• Process Step 2: A technical interview may be conducted, potentially involving a case study or a scenario-based question related to designing a renewable energy system or solving a design challenge. Focus on demonstrating your problem-solving approach, technical knowledge, and understanding of constructability and compliance.
• Process Step 3: Interviews with hiring managers and potentially key project stakeholders to assess cultural fit, communication skills, and team collaboration capabilities. Be ready to articulate your approach to managing design teams and working with other departments.
• Process Step 4: Final assessment, potentially including reference checks. The evaluation criteria will likely focus on technical competence, project delivery experience, leadership potential, and alignment with UGL's values and operational objectives.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Portfolio Tip 1: Prepare to discuss specific projects where you led the design process from concept to completion. Highlight your contributions to key design decisions, problem-solving initiatives, and risk management strategies.
• Portfolio Tip 2: For any process improvement examples, structure them using a STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Clearly articulate the challenge, your specific actions to improve the process, and the quantifiable results (e.g., time saved, cost reduction, quality improvement).
• Portfolio Tip 3: If presenting design examples, focus on clarity and impact. Showcase schematics, layouts, or key design calculations that demonstrate your technical proficiency and understanding of system integration. Be prepared to explain the rationale behind design choices.
• Portfolio Tip 4: Research UGL's recent projects in the New Energy sector. Tailor your examples to align with the types of projects they are undertaking and demonstrate how your skills and experience can directly benefit their operational goals.

Challenge Preparation:

• Challenge Preparation 1: Expect questions that test your understanding of electrical engineering principles in renewable energy contexts, your approach to managing design scope and changes, and your ability to ensure safety and environmental compliance.
• Challenge Preparation 2: If a case study is presented, allocate your time wisely. Understand the core problem, outline your approach, present your findings clearly, and be prepared to defend your recommendations.
• Challenge Preparation 3: Practice articulating complex technical concepts in a clear and concise manner. Be ready to discuss how you would communicate design progress, challenges, and solutions to various stakeholders, including non-technical personnel.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to assess a candidate's technical depth, project management aptitude, and collaborative spirit. A strong understanding of the renewable energy sector and UGL's operational context will be advantageous. Candidates should be prepared to provide concrete examples of their experience and demonstrate how they can contribute to the company's success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Autodesk CAD (e.g., AutoCAD Electrical): Essential for creating detailed electrical schematics, single-line diagrams, panel layouts, and wiring diagrams. Proficiency in this suite is critical for producing accurate construction-ready designs.
• PSCAD: A specialized software for power system simulation and analysis, crucial for modeling the behavior of renewable energy systems, grid integration, and power flow studies.
• PVsyst: Industry-standard software for the preliminary design and system analysis of photovoltaic (PV) power plants, used for energy yield estimation, component sizing, and performance prediction.
• MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook): Foundational tools for documentation, data analysis, reporting, presentations, and communication. Advanced Excel skills for quantity take-offs and data manipulation are highly beneficial.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools (e.g., Excel, Power BI, Tableau): While not explicitly mentioned, the role requires analyzing project data, design performance metrics, and cost information. Proficiency in data visualization and reporting tools is advantageous for presenting findings and supporting decision-making.
• Performance Measurement Tools: Understanding how to measure and report on design efficiency, project timelines, and adherence to budget.

CRM & Automation:

• Project Management Software (e.g., MS Project, Primavera): Likely used for project scheduling, resource allocation, and tracking design progress against project milestones.
• Document Management Systems: For organizing, storing, and controlling design documentation and project-related files.
• Integration Tools: While not specific to design software, understanding how design data integrates with procurement, construction management, and ERP systems is valuable.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in specialized design and simulation software (CAD, PSCAD, PVsyst) is a key technical requirement. The ability to leverage standard office productivity tools and potentially project management or data analytics software will further enhance a candidate's effectiveness in managing complex design processes and communicating results.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: A paramount value in the energy and construction sectors, emphasizing a commitment to robust safety protocols in all design and operational activities.
• Integrity & Accountability: Operating with honesty and taking ownership of design outcomes and project responsibilities.
• Excellence in Delivery: Striving for high-quality design and project execution, meeting client expectations and industry standards.
• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: Encouraging new ideas and methods to enhance design processes, project efficiency, and the adoption of new energy technologies.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive environment where working together across disciplines and departments is key to achieving shared operational goals.

Collaboration Style:

• Operations Integration: The Design Manager is expected to foster strong, integrated collaboration between the design team and other project functions (estimating, procurement, construction, commissioning). This ensures that design intent is understood and maintained throughout the project lifecycle.
• Process Review & Feedback: A culture of constructive feedback and continuous review of design processes and outcomes is likely encouraged to identify areas for improvement and maintain high standards.
• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting the sharing of technical knowledge, lessons learned, and best practices within the design team and across project teams to enhance collective expertise and operational efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: UGL's values and collaborative style are geared towards delivering complex projects reliably and safely. The Design Manager plays a crucial role in embodying these values and ensuring they are reflected in the design team's approach to work and collaboration with other departments.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Design Complexity: Integrating diverse technical requirements (electrical, civil, structural, environmental) for large-scale renewable energy projects while adhering to strict timelines and budgets.
• Rapid Technological Evolution: Staying abreast of advancements in renewable energy technologies, grid integration standards, and design software to ensure designs are current and future-proof.
• Cross-Functional Coordination: Effectively managing communication and alignment between design teams and other project stakeholders, often with differing priorities and perspectives.
• Balancing Innovation with Practicality: Developing innovative design solutions while ensuring they are constructible, maintainable, and cost-effective within project constraints.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific renewable energy technologies (e.g., advanced BESS control systems, grid-forming inverters, hydrogen infrastructure design) through specialized training and project exposure.
• Industry Certifications & Conferences: Support for attending industry events and pursuing professional certifications relevant to engineering management, renewable energy systems, or project management.
• Operations Mentorship & Leadership: Access to mentorship programs from senior engineering leaders within UGL and the CIMIC Group, providing guidance on career progression and leadership development.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents challenges inherent to leading design in a dynamic and technically demanding sector. The growth opportunities are significant, particularly for individuals looking to specialize in renewable energy and develop their leadership capabilities within a large, reputable organization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Operations Strategy & Methodology: "Describe your approach to developing a design plan for a new solar farm project. How do you ensure all stakeholders' requirements are captured and integrated into the design process?" Prepare to discuss your methodologies for scope management, risk assessment in design, and quality assurance.
• Collaboration & Stakeholder Management: "Tell me about a time you had to manage conflicting requirements from different project stakeholders (e.g., construction vs. operations). How did you resolve the conflict and ensure the design met overall project objectives?" Focus on your communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills in a collaborative context.
• Problem-Solving & Efficiency: "Imagine a scenario where a critical design component is found to be unconstructible during the detailed design phase. What steps would you take to address this, and how would you minimize the impact on the project schedule and budget?" Emphasize your process for identifying issues, proposing solutions, and implementing changes efficiently.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Company Operations Culture: "Based on your understanding of UGL and the New Energy sector, how do you see yourself contributing to our culture of safety, innovation, and operational excellence?" Research UGL's values and recent projects to demonstrate alignment.
• Operations Team Dynamics: "Describe your ideal working relationship with a project management team and a construction team. How do you ensure effective communication and collaboration between design and site-based personnel?" Prepare examples of how you have fostered positive working relationships.
• Operations Impact Measurement: "How do you measure the success of a design project beyond just technical specifications? What metrics do you consider important for demonstrating the value of design to a project's overall success?" Discuss your approach to tracking design progress, cost-effectiveness, and constructability.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Process Improvement Case Study: Select one or two strong examples from your career where you significantly improved a design process or workflow. Use the STAR method to clearly outline the situation, your task, the actions you took, and the quantifiable results achieved.
• Metrics Presentation: When discussing project achievements, be ready to present key metrics such as project timelines met, budget adherence for design packages, number of design iterations reduced, or specific safety/compliance improvements driven by your designs.
• Interactive Demonstration: If possible, prepare a brief, high-level overview of a design you managed, perhaps using simplified diagrams or flowcharts to illustrate key components and your role in their integration. Be prepared to answer questions about your design choices and problem-solving approach.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview preparation focuses on demonstrating not only technical expertise but also strong project management, communication, and problem-solving skills. Candidates should be ready to articulate their experience with specific examples and connect their capabilities to UGL's operational needs and company values.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on the UGL careers portal.
• Resume Customization: Tailor your resume to prominently feature your experience in renewable energy design (Solar, BESS, Wind), HV power systems, and project lifecycle management. Use keywords from the job description and highlight quantifiable achievements related to design efficiency, cost savings, and compliance.
• Portfolio Preparation: While a formal portfolio may not be required upfront, be prepared to discuss specific projects and design challenges during interviews. Curate examples that showcase your technical skills, process management capabilities, and problem-solving approaches, focusing on renewable energy projects.
• Interview Practice: Rehearse answers to common interview questions, focusing on behavioral examples that demonstrate your leadership, collaboration, and technical acumen. Practice articulating your design process and project experience clearly and concisely.
• Company Research: Thoroughly research UGL Limited, its New Energy business unit, and its recent projects. Understand their company culture, values, and strategic direction to better align your responses and demonstrate your suitability for the role.

⚠️ 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.