Design Manager - Defence

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager - Defence

Company: AECOM

Location: Brisbane, Queensland, Australia

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Design Management / Engineering Operations

Date Posted: 2026-03-09

Experience Level: 10+ years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and integrate large multidisciplinary design teams for complex Defence projects, ensuring cohesive and high-quality outcomes.

• Act as the primary client interface, managing Defence stakeholder relationships and translating operational requirements into technical briefs.

• Own the front-end design strategy, establishing project execution plans, technical assurance processes, and program controls.

• Manage program, commercial, and governance obligations within Defence contractual frameworks (DSC, DSSC, MC).

• Provide technical leadership and assurance, resolving cross-discipline conflicts and ensuring buildability, safety, and resilience.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within AECOM's Building Engineering Team, focusing specifically on Defence projects. The emphasis on "Operations" in this context relates to the operational execution and management of design processes, rather than traditional revenue or sales operations. The core function is ensuring that design projects are delivered efficiently, compliantly, and to the high standards required by the Defence sector.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and integrate multidisciplinary design teams, including Architecture, Civils, Structural, MEP, Fire, Security, Acoustics, and specialist Defence consultants, to deliver fully integrated solutions.

• Serve as the primary client interface for Defence stakeholders and end-users, effectively extracting operational requirements and translating them into comprehensive technical briefs.

• Manage evolving scope within secure Defence environments, ensuring clear communication and adherence to project parameters.

• Develop and own the front-end design strategy, including establishing robust project execution plans, technical assurance processes, risk registers, and program controls from concept through to detailed design.

• Oversee program, commercial, and governance obligations, ensuring strict compliance with Defence standards, security protocols, and regulatory controls, particularly within DSC or framework requirements.

• Provide critical technical leadership and assurance by chairing design reviews, challenging discipline leads, resolving cross-discipline conflicts, and ensuring buildability, safety, resilience, and long-term asset performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary responsibilities highlight a strong focus on process management, risk mitigation, and stakeholder engagement, which are critical components of operational excellence in complex project environments like Defence. The role demands a proactive approach to ensuring design integrity and compliance, aligning with operational efficiency goals.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While specific degree requirements are not explicitly stated, a strong technical background is implied, likely requiring a Bachelor's or Master's degree in a relevant engineering or architectural discipline.

Experience: Minimum of 12+ years of experience, with a significant portion focused on design management or multidisciplinary leadership, preferably following a strong technical grounding.

Required Skills:

• Proven track record delivering complex projects within the Defence sector or other highly regulated industries.

• Experience leading full design teams and acting as the Design Manager or Consultant's Representative for clients and key stakeholders.

• Strong understanding of program control, commercial risk management, technical governance, and compliance frameworks.

• Familiarity with Defence contractual frameworks such as DSC, DSSC, and MC.

• Excellent technical leadership and assurance capabilities, including the ability to chair design reviews and resolve conflicts.

• Ability to challenge technical specialists while fostering collaborative team dynamics.

Preferred Skills:

• Prior Defence security clearance.

• Experience in translating operational requirements into technical design briefs within secure environments.

• Proficiency in risk register management and program control methodologies.

• Strong understanding of buildability, safety, resilience, and asset performance principles.

• Exceptional stakeholder management and communication skills, particularly with Defence personnel.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize a blend of technical expertise, project management acumen, and specific knowledge of the Defence sector. The explicit mention of "Australian Citizenship" is a critical qualification for this role due to the nature of Defence projects.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrations of leading and integrating multidisciplinary design teams on complex projects, showcasing effective coordination across various disciplines.

• Case studies detailing the management of client relationships and stakeholder engagement, particularly with Defence personnel and end-users.

• Examples of front-end design strategy development, including project execution plans, technical assurance processes, and risk management frameworks.

• Evidence of managing program, commercial, and governance obligations, highlighting adherence to regulatory and Defence-specific standards.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow design and optimization for integrated design processes within regulated sectors.

• Implementation and automation methods for design review and assurance processes.

• Measurement and performance analysis of design project outcomes, focusing on efficiency, compliance, and client satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates are expected to present a portfolio that not only showcases their technical design management skills but also their ability to manage complex processes, mitigate risks, and ensure compliance within a highly regulated environment. The focus should be on demonstrating operational efficiency and successful project delivery.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for a Design Manager with 10+ years of experience in a major Australian city like Brisbane, within a specialized sector like Defence, the estimated salary range would be AUD $160,000 - $220,000 per annum. This estimate considers the senior nature of the role, the complexity of Defence projects, and the required technical expertise.

Benefits:

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

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

• Flexibility to swap public holidays for dates that better suit individual preferences.

• Continuous learning and growth opportunities, including:

  • Lunch and learn sessions.
  • Professional development courses.
  • Financial study assistance.
  • 5 days of paid study leave per year.
  • Global career opportunities within AECOM.

• Comprehensive global well-being program.

• Access to industry-leading technology and thinking.

• Transformational work with significant impact.

Working Hours: While not explicitly stated, a standard full-time role in Australia typically involves 37.5 to 40 hours per week. The hybrid work model suggests flexibility in how these hours are managed.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on AECOM's status as a Fortune 500 company, the seniority of the Design Manager role, the specialized Defence sector, and Australian market rates for similar positions. The benefits package is robust and emphasizes work-life balance and professional development, aligning with AECOM's commitment to employee growth.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Infrastructure Consulting, Engineering, Architecture, and Construction Services. AECOM operates across various sectors, including transportation, buildings, water, new energy, and the environment. The Defence sector is a key area of focus for this role.

Company Size: AECOM is a Fortune 500 company, indicating a large global organization with extensive resources and a significant employee base. This translates to a structured environment with opportunities for diverse project involvement.

Founded: AECOM's history dates back to 1910 through predecessor companies, with the current entity formed through mergers and acquisitions, reflecting a long-standing presence and evolution in the infrastructure sector.

Team Structure:

• The role sits within the Building Engineering Team, specifically focusing on Defence projects.

• It requires leading integrated, multidisciplinary design teams, implying a collaborative structure where various engineering and architectural disciplines work in concert.

• The position involves acting as the primary client interface, suggesting a key role in communication and coordination between AECOM's technical teams and Defence stakeholders.

Methodology:

• AECOM emphasizes investing in digital capabilities and innovations for consistency and efficiency.

• The company focuses on sustainable outcomes and long-term asset performance.

• A data-driven approach is implied through the mention of technical assurance processes and program controls.

• The company culture champions integrity, entrepreneurial spirit, and a pioneering mindset.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's strong reputation in infrastructure and its commitment to innovation and sustainability provide a solid foundation for the role. The emphasis on Defence projects suggests a need for rigorous processes and a security-conscious operational approach within the team.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior-level Design Management role, requiring extensive experience and leadership capabilities. It sits at a strategic operational level within the project delivery framework, overseeing the entire design process for complex Defence infrastructure.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will likely report to a Director or Sector Lead within AECOM's Buildings & Places (B&P) business line, specifically those overseeing Defence projects. They will, in turn, lead multidisciplinary design teams composed of discipline-specific engineers, architects, and consultants.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager has a significant impact on project success by ensuring that design operations are efficient, compliant, and aligned with client (Defence) requirements. Their ability to manage technical strategy, client interfaces, and integrated teams directly influences project timelines, budgets, quality, and overall client satisfaction, which are critical operational metrics for AECOM.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise within the Defence sector, potentially leading larger or more complex Defence infrastructure projects.

• Leadership Advancement: Progress into higher-level management roles, such as Program Director or Sector Lead, with broader responsibility for multiple projects or the entire Defence business line in the region.

• Skill Development: Enhance capabilities in areas like digital design, advanced project controls, and strategic client relationship management through AECOM's extensive learning and development programs.

• Cross-Sector Experience: Transition to managing design for major projects in other sectors AECOM serves, leveraging the foundational skills gained in Defence.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career progression within a global leader in infrastructure consulting. The focus on Defence provides specialized expertise, while AECOM's diverse portfolio offers opportunities for broader impact and skill diversification.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: AECOM offers a Hybrid work environment, indicating a blend of in-office collaboration and remote work flexibility. The Brisbane office is likely a modern, professional workspace designed to facilitate collaboration and project team interaction.

Office Location(s): Primarily based in AECOM's Brisbane, Queensland office. AECOM has a significant presence across Australia, with multiple offices.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The hybrid model encourages collaboration through planned office days for team meetings, design reviews, and stakeholder engagements.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to AECOM's advanced digital tools, design software, and project management platforms will be integral to the role.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular interaction with a diverse range of discipline leads, project managers, and Defence stakeholders, fostering a dynamic and engaging work environment.

Work Schedule: The hybrid model allows for flexibility, likely accommodating standard business hours with the ability to adjust start/finish times, contributing to a healthy work-life balance while ensuring project operational needs are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work arrangement reflects a modern approach to workplace flexibility, aiming to balance individual needs with the operational requirements of complex project delivery, particularly within the security-conscious Defence sector.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and cover letter, focusing on Defence experience, multidisciplinary leadership, and technical qualifications.

• Technical Interview(s): In-depth discussions with senior leaders or peers to assess technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and understanding of Defence project requirements. This may include scenario-based questions.

• Portfolio Review: Presentation of a curated portfolio showcasing relevant projects, design management methodologies, and demonstrated outcomes. Emphasis on Defence projects and complex multidisciplinary integrations.

• Cultural Fit Assessment: Interviews to gauge alignment with AECOM's values, collaborative style, and leadership approach. This may involve behavioral questions.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior executive or business lead to confirm suitability and discuss career aspirations.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio by project type, highlighting Defence projects prominently. For each project, clearly outline your role, the challenges faced, the multidisciplinary teams you led, the processes you implemented, and the quantifiable outcomes (e.g., budget adherence, schedule compliance, technical quality, client satisfaction).

• Process Focus: Showcase your approach to front-end design strategy, technical assurance, risk management, and program controls. Use diagrams or flowcharts to illustrate complex processes.

• Metrics & Impact: Quantify your achievements wherever possible. Demonstrate how your leadership and process management led to improved efficiency, reduced risk, or enhanced project delivery for clients.

• Defence Context: Emphasize your understanding of Defence standards, security protocols, and contractual frameworks.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you have managed complex multidisciplinary design teams, resolved cross-discipline conflicts, and translated ambiguous client requirements into actionable design briefs.

• Research AECOM's recent Defence projects and understand their approach to innovation and sustainability in infrastructure.

• Prepare questions that demonstrate your strategic thinking and understanding of the Defence sector's unique operational challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily scrutinize candidates' ability to manage complex operational processes within a highly regulated environment. A well-prepared portfolio that clearly articulates process management and demonstrable results is crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency with industry-standard project management tools (e.g., Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Asana, Monday.com) for program control and task management.

• Collaboration Platforms: Experience with tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for team communication and document sharing.

• Design Software: Familiarity with the output and integration of various design software suites (e.g., Autodesk Revit, AutoCAD, Navisworks) and BIM (Building Information Modeling) processes would be beneficial, even if not directly using them for design.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Reporting Tools: Ability to interpret and present data from project management and financial systems to inform decision-making and track progress against KPIs.

• Dashboarding: Experience with creating or interpreting dashboards (e.g., Power BI, Tableau) to visualize project performance, risks, and key metrics.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: While not a sales role, understanding client management principles and potentially interacting with client relationship management systems might be relevant for stakeholder tracking.

• Document Management Systems: Experience with secure and robust document management systems, crucial for handling sensitive Defence project information.

• BIM & Digital Tools: A strong understanding of how BIM and other digital tools enhance design coordination, clash detection, and overall project delivery efficiency is increasingly important.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this role is not directly in IT, a strong understanding of the technology stack used in modern design and project management is essential for effective operational leadership. Proficiency in digital tools that support collaboration, program control, and technical assurance is expected.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity: Upholding the highest ethical standards, particularly crucial in Defence projects.

• Entrepreneurial Spirit: Proactively identifying and implementing improvements in design processes and project execution.

• Pioneering Mindset: Embracing innovation and new technologies to enhance design efficiency and outcomes.

• Collaboration: Fostering strong working relationships across multidisciplinary teams and with clients.

• Sustainability: Commitment to designing for long-term environmental and social impact.

• Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion: Contributing to a workplace where all individuals feel they belong and can contribute their best work.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Emphasis on seamless collaboration between architecture, engineering disciplines, and specialist consultants to achieve unified design solutions.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Proactive and transparent communication with Defence clients and end-users to ensure alignment and manage expectations.

• Process Improvement: A culture that encourages constructive feedback and continuous refinement of design and project management processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's stated values of integrity, innovation, and collaboration are paramount for a role involving Defence projects. The emphasis on DEI is also a key aspect of their corporate culture.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Defence Regulations: Ensuring strict adherence to Defence standards, security protocols, and complex contractual frameworks (DSC, DSSC, MC).

• Managing Complex Multidisciplinary Teams: Effectively coordinating diverse technical specialists with potentially conflicting priorities.

• Translating Ambiguous Requirements: Extracting clear, actionable design requirements from Defence stakeholders operating within secure environments.

• Balancing Scope, Time, and Budget: Maintaining control over project parameters while ensuring high-quality, compliant design outcomes.

• Security Requirements: Adhering to stringent security protocols for information handling and site access.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Defence Sector Specialization: Gaining deep expertise in Defence infrastructure design and project delivery.

• Leadership Development: Access to AECOM's extensive leadership training programs to hone management and strategic planning skills.

• Digital Transformation: Opportunities to engage with and implement cutting-edge digital design and project management technologies.

• Global Mobility: Potential for international assignments or involvement in global Defence projects as part of AECOM's worldwide network.

• Professional Certifications: Support for obtaining relevant industry certifications or accreditations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges inherent in Defence projects present significant opportunities for professional growth, particularly in areas of compliance, risk management, and complex stakeholder engagement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you led a complex multidisciplinary design team on a project with stringent regulatory requirements. What was your approach, and what were the key outcomes?" (Focus on process, leadership, and results).

• "How do you ensure technical alignment and resolve conflicts between different engineering disciplines and architectural design?" (Highlight your process for integration and problem-solving).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about AECOM's work in the Defence sector, and how do your skills and experience align with our values and project needs?" (Research AECOM's Defence portfolio and connect it to your experience).

• "How do you foster a collaborative and inclusive environment within a diverse design team, especially in a high-pressure Defence project setting?" (Showcase your leadership and DEI awareness).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Narrative: Structure your portfolio presentation around key projects, telling a story that highlights the challenge, your strategic approach to design management operations, the team you led, and the successful, compliant outcome.

• Visuals: Use clear, concise visuals (diagrams, charts, project photos) to illustrate complex processes, team structures, and project scope.

• Data-Driven: Quantify your achievements with metrics related to schedule adherence, budget management, risk mitigation, and client satisfaction.

• Defence Focus: Explicitly link your experience and methodologies to the specific demands of Defence projects, demonstrating your understanding of security, compliance, and operational requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare to discuss your operational methodologies in detail, focusing on how you manage processes, mitigate risks, and ensure compliance within a regulated environment. Your portfolio should be a key tool to illustrate these capabilities.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 key projects that best showcase your experience in leading multidisciplinary design teams, managing complex Defence projects, and implementing robust design management processes. Ensure each project clearly articulates the operational challenges, your strategic approach, and measurable outcomes.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight keywords related to Defence design management, technical strategy, program control, stakeholder engagement, and multidisciplinary leadership. Quantify your achievements with specific metrics and responsibilities.

• Prepare Your Presentation: Practice a concise and impactful presentation of your portfolio, focusing on your operational methodologies, problem-solving skills, and ability to deliver compliant, high-quality design outcomes for Defence clients.

• Research AECOM: Understand AECOM's presence in the Defence sector, their company values (integrity, innovation, DEI), and their approach to infrastructure consulting. This will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate cultural fit.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.