Design Manager - Defence

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager - Defence

Company: AECOM

Location: Brisbane, Queensland, Australia

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Engineering & Design Management (Defence Sector)

Date Posted: March 23, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years (Senior/Management)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and integrate complex, multi-disciplinary design teams to deliver high-quality outcomes for Defence projects, ensuring technical coordination across various engineering and architectural disciplines.

• Serve as the primary client interface, engaging with Defence stakeholders to define operational requirements and translate them into comprehensive technical briefs within secure environments.

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

• Manage program, commercial, and governance obligations, ensuring strict compliance with Defence standards, security protocols, and regulatory controls, particularly within frameworks like DSC, DSSC, and MC.

• Provide critical technical leadership and assurance, driving design reviews, resolving cross-discipline conflicts, and ensuring buildability, safety, resilience, and long-term asset performance of Defence infrastructure.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is explicitly focused on Defence projects, requiring a deep understanding of its unique regulatory, security, and contractual landscapes. The "Design Manager" title, combined with the emphasis on leading multidisciplinary teams and client interfaces, positions this as a senior leadership role within the engineering and design consulting domain, specifically for infrastructure projects within the defence sector. The hybrid work arrangement suggests a balance between in-office collaboration and remote flexibility.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and integrate large multidisciplinary design teams, encompassing architecture, civil, structural, MEP, fire, security, acoustics, and specialist Defence consultants, to ensure fully integrated and cohesive project solutions.

• Act as the primary client interface, effectively engaging with Defence stakeholders and end-users to elicit and document operational requirements, ensuring these are accurately translated into technical briefs and managing scope evolution under secure conditions.

• Own the front-end design strategy for Defence projects, establishing clear project execution plans, comprehensive technical assurance processes, detailed risk registers, and robust programme controls from the initial concept phase through to detailed design completion.

• Manage program, commercial, and governance obligations meticulously, ensuring delivery aligns with specific Defence contractual frameworks (e.g., DSC, DSSC, MC) and maintains unwavering compliance with Defence standards, stringent security protocols, and all relevant regulatory controls.

• Provide essential technical leadership and assurance throughout the design lifecycle, including chairing design reviews, proactively challenging discipline leads, effectively resolving cross-discipline conflicts, and ensuring that designs meet stringent requirements for buildability, safety, resilience, and long-term asset performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly outline a strategic and managerial function, emphasizing leadership, client management, and oversight of the entire design process within a highly regulated environment. The mention of specific Defence contractual frameworks (DSC, DSSC, MC) is critical for candidates to understand the depth of compliance required.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Formal tertiary qualifications in a relevant engineering or architectural discipline are expected. While specific degrees are not listed, a strong technical foundation is a prerequisite.

Experience: Ideally, 12+ years of progressive experience, with a significant portion demonstrating strong technical grounding prior to transitioning into design management or multidisciplinary leadership roles. A proven track record of delivering complex projects within the Defence sector or other highly regulated industries is essential.

Required Skills:

• Proven track record leading full design teams and serving 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 relevant to large-scale projects.

• Demonstrated ability to manage and integrate multidisciplinary design inputs (architecture, civil, structural, MEP, fire, security, acoustics, specialist consultants).

• Expertise in front-end design strategy development, including project execution planning, technical assurance, risk assessment, and program control.

• Excellent client-facing and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to extract, define, and manage requirements within secure environments.

Preferred Skills:

• Prior Defence clearance is highly advantageous.

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

• Credibility and confidence to professionally challenge technical specialists while fostering collaborative team dynamics.

• Experience in developing and maintaining comprehensive risk registers and program controls.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "ideally, 12+ years' experience" and "strong technical grounding before transitioning into design management" indicates a need for a candidate who understands both the technical execution and the managerial oversight required. The mandatory Australian Citizenship is a critical screening criterion.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate successful project delivery, showcasing leadership of integrated design teams and the ability to manage complex technical challenges.

• Provide evidence of robust program control and risk management strategies, with examples of how these were implemented and their impact on project outcomes.

• Illustrate experience in defining and managing client requirements, particularly within regulated environments like Defence, showing how operational needs were translated into technical specifications.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow design and optimization for multi-disciplinary design processes within Defence projects, highlighting efficiency gains and quality improvements.

• Implementation and automation methods for design management systems and client communication protocols in secure environments.

• Measurement and performance analysis of design team effectiveness, including key performance indicators (KPIs) for technical coordination, schedule adherence, and budget management.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role, particularly in Defence, a portfolio should highlight not just completed projects but the candidate's strategic approach to managing complex design processes, client relationships, and risk within stringent regulatory frameworks. Demonstrating an understanding of project lifecycle management and compliance is crucial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for a Senior Design Manager with 10+ years of experience in a major Australian city like Brisbane, within the engineering consulting sector and specifically the Defence industry, the estimated salary range is AUD $150,000 - $200,000 per annum, potentially higher for candidates with extensive Defence clearance and specialised experience.

Benefits:

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

• Option to purchase up to 6 weeks of additional annual leave per year for extended personal time off.

• Flex public holidays, offering the ability to swap standard public holidays for others that better suit personal needs or cultural significance.

• Continuous learning and growth opportunities, including regular lunch and learns, access to professional development courses, financial study assistance, and 5 days of paid study leave per year.

• Global career opportunities within AECOM's extensive international network.

• Comprehensive well-being program and a wide array of compensation and benefits programs to meet diverse employee needs.

Working Hours: Standard full-time working hours are typically 40 hours per week, with flexibility offered through hybrid work arrangements and alternative start/finish times.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on AECOM's standing as a global firm, the seniority of a Design Manager role, the demand for Defence sector expertise in Australia, and typical compensation for similar roles in Brisbane. The benefits package is detailed and focuses on work-life balance, professional development, and employee well-being.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Infrastructure Consulting / Engineering Services. AECOM operates globally, providing a broad range of professional services across transportation, buildings, water, new energy, and environmental sectors. Their Defence sector work involves specialized infrastructure design and project management.

Company Size: AECOM is a Fortune 500 company, indicating a large global presence with thousands of employees worldwide. This scale offers significant resources, diverse project opportunities, and established corporate structures.

Founded: AECOM was founded in 1910, bringing over a century of experience and a deep-rooted understanding of the infrastructure industry. This longevity suggests stability, established processes, and a wealth of historical project knowledge.

Team Structure:

• The role is within the Building Engineering Team, specifically focused on Defence projects. This implies a dedicated unit with specialized expertise.

• The Design Manager will likely report to a Director or Senior Manager within the Buildings & Places (B&P) business line, with direct leadership responsibilities over project-specific multidisciplinary design teams.

Methodology:

• AECOM emphasizes data-driven decision-making and leveraging digital capabilities for consistency and efficiency. This likely translates to using advanced design software, project management tools, and data analytics for project oversight.

• Workflow planning and optimization are central to managing complex projects, ensuring smooth integration of various disciplines and adherence to project timelines and quality standards.

• Automation and efficiency practices are encouraged, likely through the adoption of digital tools and streamlined processes to enhance project delivery and client satisfaction.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's global stature and long history suggest a well-defined corporate culture that values expertise, innovation, and client service. The emphasis on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) is a significant cultural indicator. For this specific role, the Defence sector context will overlay these broader company values with specific requirements for security, compliance, and stakeholder engagement.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is at a Senior Management level within the Design and Engineering function. It requires significant technical expertise combined with strong leadership, client management, and project governance skills. The scope includes end-to-end responsibility for the design phase of complex Defence projects.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will report to a senior leadership position within AECOM's Buildings & Places business line, likely a Technical Director or Business Unit Manager. They will, in turn, lead and manage multidisciplinary design teams, including discipline leads and project engineers/designers.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's role is critical in shaping the technical integrity, feasibility, and compliance of Defence infrastructure projects. Their success directly impacts project timelines, budget adherence, client satisfaction, and the long-term performance and safety of critical defence assets. They are pivotal in translating strategic client needs into tangible, constructible designs.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Potential to progress to Program Management roles overseeing multiple Defence projects, or to more senior leadership positions within the Defence sector or the broader Buildings & Places business line.

• Industry Specialization: Deepen expertise in Defence infrastructure design, security protocols, and contractual frameworks, becoming a recognized subject matter expert within AECOM and the industry.

• Leadership Development: Opportunities to mentor junior engineers and designers, develop leadership capabilities, and potentially take on broader management responsibilities within AECOM's organisational structure.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Operations Impact" section highlights how this role is not just about technical design but about the strategic management of the design process to achieve broader business and client objectives, a key characteristic of operations-focused roles. Growth opportunities are framed within the context of engineering management and client-facing leadership.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: AECOM offers a hybrid work environment, suggesting a combination of office-based collaboration and remote work flexibility. The Brisbane office is likely a hub for client meetings, team collaboration, and focused work requiring specific resources.

Office Location(s): The primary location is Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. AECOM has a significant presence across Australia, which may offer opportunities for collaboration with other offices or projects.

Workspace Context:

• The hybrid model supports a flexible workspace, allowing employees to leverage the benefits of both in-office collaboration and remote autonomy. This is ideal for operations roles that require focused analysis and strategic planning, as well as team-based problem-solving.

• Access to AECOM's advanced design software, project management platforms, and potentially secure government-level IT infrastructure will be critical for managing Defence projects.

• Opportunities for interaction with experienced Defence sector professionals, discipline leads, and senior management will foster knowledge sharing and professional development within a collaborative environment.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week is typical, with flexibility in start and finish times. This structure allows operations professionals to manage their workloads effectively, aligning with project deadlines and client needs while accommodating personal schedules.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work environment is a key characteristic, indicating a modern approach to work that balances flexibility with the need for in-person collaboration, particularly important for complex, multi-stakeholder projects like those in Defence.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of CV and application to assess alignment with minimum qualifications, particularly Defence experience and Australian Citizenship.

• Technical Interview: Discussion focused on design management experience, technical leadership, understanding of Defence sector requirements, and problem-solving scenarios. Candidates may be asked to walk through specific project examples.

• Portfolio Review: Presentation of relevant portfolio pieces showcasing successful Defence or regulated sector projects, highlighting leadership, process management, and outcomes. Emphasis on demonstrating technical coordination and client interface skills.

• Stakeholder/Leadership Interview: Conversation with senior management to assess cultural fit, strategic thinking, leadership style, and long-term career aspirations within AECOM. May include scenario-based questions on managing complex stakeholder relationships.

• Final Offer: Subject to background checks and security clearance verification.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Defence Focus: Curate examples that specifically highlight experience with Defence projects, security protocols, and relevant contractual frameworks. If direct Defence experience is limited, emphasize transferable skills from other highly regulated industries (e.g., critical infrastructure, aviation, government projects).

• Process Improvement Case Studies: Detail your approach to leading multidisciplinary design teams. Structure case studies around challenges faced, your strategic solutions (e.g., implementing new design assurance processes, resolving complex cross-discipline conflicts), and quantifiable results (e.g., schedule savings, risk mitigation, improved buildability).

• Metrics & ROI: Be prepared to discuss how you measure success. Quantify achievements where possible, such as improvements in design efficiency, reduction in design-related RFIs during construction, or successful stakeholder sign-offs.

• Client Collaboration: Showcase examples of effective client engagement, requirement definition, and managing evolving scopes. Demonstrate your ability to build trust and deliver on client expectations within a secure context.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for technical challenges related to multi-disciplinary coordination, risk assessment, and problem-solving in a Defence context.

• Practice articulating your design management philosophy, leadership approach, and how you ensure quality and compliance.

• Research AECOM's recent Defence projects and understand their strategic approach to infrastructure development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio review and potential case studies points towards the need for candidates to actively demonstrate their practical experience and strategic thinking, rather than just listing responsibilities. Specific advice is tailored to the Defence sector's unique requirements.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD/BIM Software: Proficiency with industry-standard platforms like Autodesk Revit, AutoCAD, Navisworks, and potentially Bentley Systems software, crucial for managing and coordinating complex multi-disciplinary designs.

• Project Management Software: Experience with tools such as Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Aconex, or similar for program control, scheduling, and resource management.

• Collaboration Platforms: Familiarity with platforms like Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, or dedicated project extranets for document sharing, communication, and team collaboration, especially within a hybrid work model.

• Risk Management Tools: Experience with dedicated risk registers or modules within project management software to identify, assess, and track project risks.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Reporting Tools: Ability to generate comprehensive reports on design progress, risks, and compliance using project management software or custom reporting solutions.

• Dashboard Tools: Experience with tools like Power BI or Tableau for visualizing project data and creating dashboards for stakeholder reporting, demonstrating performance against KPIs.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: While not a direct sales role, understanding client relationship management principles and potentially using CRM-like functionalities within project management systems to track client interactions and requirements.

• Document Management Systems: Proficiency in using AECOM's or industry-standard document management systems to ensure version control, secure access, and audit trails for all project documentation.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific tools are not listed, a Design Manager in this sector would be expected to be proficient in leading-edge design and project management technologies, especially those supporting BIM and collaborative workflows. The focus is on tools that enable coordination, compliance, and efficient delivery within a regulated environment.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: A paramount value in Defence and infrastructure projects, ensuring all design decisions prioritize the safety of personnel and the public. This translates to rigorous technical assurance and adherence to safety standards.

• Integrity and Trust: Essential when working with Defence clients and handling sensitive project information. Upholding ethical standards and maintaining client trust is fundamental.

• Collaboration and Teamwork: Encouraged through the hybrid model and the nature of multidisciplinary projects. Valuing diverse perspectives and fostering open communication is key.

• Innovation and Excellence: AECOM's commitment to delivering better outcomes through technical expertise and digital innovation. This role requires a proactive approach to finding optimal design solutions.

• Client Focus: Understanding and meeting Defence client needs and expectations is central to success, requiring effective communication and relationship management.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The role demands seamless collaboration across architecture, engineering disciplines, and specialist consultants. Proactive communication and conflict resolution are vital.

• Process Review and Feedback: A culture of continuous improvement where design processes are regularly reviewed, and feedback is actively sought and incorporated to enhance efficiency and quality.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of best practices, lessons learned, and technical insights across the design team and with other AECOM professionals, particularly within the Defence sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: The alignment of AECOM's broader values with the specific demands of the Defence sector is crucial. This section highlights how core values translate into daily operational practices for a Design Manager.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Defence Regulations & Security: Managing complex Defence standards, security protocols, and evolving government requirements presents ongoing challenges requiring vigilance and expertise.

• Integrating Diverse Disciplines: Ensuring seamless collaboration and technical coherence among a wide array of specialist disciplines can be complex, requiring strong leadership and conflict resolution skills.

• Managing Evolving Scope: Defence projects can experience scope changes; effectively managing these while maintaining program and budget requires robust change control processes.

• Balancing Technical Rigor with Commercial Pressures: Delivering high-quality, compliant designs within commercial constraints and tight timelines demands strategic planning and efficient resource management.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Defence Sector Specialization: Deepen knowledge of Defence infrastructure requirements, procurement processes, and project delivery models through specialized training and project experience.

• Advanced Design & Project Management Techniques: Access to AECOM's global training resources for professional development in areas like BIM management, risk analysis, and advanced project controls.

• Leadership and Mentorship: Opportunities to mentor emerging talent, develop leadership skills through managing large teams, and potentially participate in AECOM's leadership development programs.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section addresses potential hurdles and frames them as opportunities for professional growth, a common expectation in senior operational roles. It emphasizes continuous learning and adaptation within a specialized field.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex Defence project you managed from concept to detailed design. What were the key challenges, how did you lead the multidisciplinary team, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on leadership, process, and results).

• "How do you ensure technical compliance and manage risk within a highly regulated sector like Defence? Provide specific examples of processes you implemented." (Focus on governance, risk management, and process adherence).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about AECOM's work in the Defence sector, and why are you interested in this specific role?" (Demonstrate research and genuine interest).

• "How do you foster a collaborative environment within a multidisciplinary design team, especially within a hybrid work setting?" (Focus on teamwork, communication, and adaptability).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio around key Defence projects. For each, clearly outline the client, project scope, your role, the team size, key challenges, your strategic approach to design management, and the final outcomes.

• Storytelling: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to describe challenging scenarios and how you navigated them. Emphasize your problem-solving skills and leadership.

• Visuals: Include diagrams, flowcharts, or simplified technical drawings that illustrate your design coordination strategies or process improvements. Avoid overly sensitive or classified information.

• Data & Metrics: Quantify achievements wherever possible (e.g., percentage reduction in design errors, schedule adherence, budget savings, positive client feedback).

📝 Enhancement Note: These questions and strategies are designed to elicit detailed responses that showcase a candidate's practical experience, strategic thinking, and fit within AECOM's operational framework for Defence projects. The portfolio advice is tailored to demonstrate relevant capabilities effectively.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the application link on SmartRecruiters. Ensure your CV clearly highlights your experience in design management, particularly within Defence or highly regulated sectors, and explicitly states your Australian Citizenship.

• Portfolio Customization: Prepare a concise portfolio that showcases 2-3 key projects demonstrating your leadership in multidisciplinary design management, client engagement, and adherence to stringent regulatory requirements. Focus on Defence or transferable industry experience.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to include keywords from the job description, such as "Design Manager," "Defence," "Multidisciplinary Design," "Technical Strategy," "Program Control," and "Client Interface." Quantify achievements and responsibilities where possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method for behavioural questions, and prepare detailed responses for technical and strategic questions related to Defence project delivery. Be ready to discuss your portfolio in detail.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research AECOM's Defence sector projects, their commitment to sustainability and innovation, and their stated values regarding diversity and inclusion to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural alignment.

⚠️ 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.