Design Manager (Defence)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager (Defence)

Company: AECOM

Location: Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Engineering / Design Management (Defence Sector)

Date Posted: March 18, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

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

• Act as the primary client interface, translating Defence stakeholder operational requirements into comprehensive technical briefs and managing scope within secure environments.

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

• Manage program, commercial, and governance obligations, ensuring compliance with Defence standards, security protocols, and regulatory controls.

• Provide technical leadership and assurance, chairing design reviews and resolving cross-discipline conflicts to ensure buildability, safety, and long-term asset performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is specifically focused on the Defence sector, requiring a deep understanding of highly regulated environments and associated contractual frameworks (DSC, DSSC, MC). The emphasis on "integrated multi-disciplinary design teams" and "technical coordination" points to a critical need for strong project management and leadership skills within a complex engineering context.

📈 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 clear technical briefs.

• Manage evolving project scope within secure Defence environments, ensuring alignment with client needs and project objectives.

• Own and execute the front-end design strategy, developing comprehensive project execution plans, technical assurance frameworks, risk registers, and program controls.

• Ensure compliance with Defence standards, security protocols, and regulatory controls throughout the design lifecycle.

• Manage program, commercial, and governance obligations according to Defence contractual requirements and framework agreements.

• Provide technical leadership and assurance by chairing design reviews, challenging discipline leads, and resolving cross-discipline conflicts.

• Ensure buildability, safety, resilience, and long-term asset performance are integral to the design solutions.

• Act as the Design Manager or Consultant's Representative, serving as the primary contact for clients and key stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical leadership, client relationship management, and rigorous project governance, specifically tailored to the stringent requirements of Defence projects. The emphasis on "translating operational requirements into technical briefs" and "managing evolving scope within secure environments" underscores the need for strong communication, negotiation, and adaptability skills.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While not explicitly stated, a Bachelor's degree in a relevant engineering discipline (e.g., Civil, Structural, Mechanical, Electrical Engineering) or Architecture is typically expected for a Design Manager role of this seniority. A Master's degree or relevant professional certifications would be advantageous.

Experience:

• Ideally, 12+ years of experience in engineering design or project management.

• A strong technical grounding before transitioning into design management or multidisciplinary leadership.

• Proven track record of delivering complex projects, preferably within the Defence sector or other highly regulated environments (e.g., nuclear industry).

• Demonstrated experience leading full design teams and acting as the Design Manager or Consultant's Representative.

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

Required Skills:

• Design Management: Proven ability to lead and manage the entire design process for complex projects.

• Technical Leadership: Capacity to provide technical direction, assurance, and challenge to specialist teams.

• Multidisciplinary Coordination: Expertise in integrating diverse engineering disciplines (Architecture, Civils, Structural, MEP, Fire, Security, Acoustics) and specialist consultants.

• Client & Stakeholder Management: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to engage with Defence stakeholders, end-users, and clients.

• Programme & Commercial Management: Strong understanding of project scheduling, budgeting, risk management, and contractual obligations.

• Defence Sector Knowledge: Familiarity with Defence standards, security protocols, and contractual frameworks.

• Problem-Solving & Conflict Resolution: Ability to identify and resolve cross-discipline conflicts effectively.

• Risk Management: Experience in developing and managing risk registers and technical assurance processes.

• Australian Citizenship: Mandatory requirement for this role.

Preferred Skills:

• Previous Defence project experience.

• Experience within the nuclear industry.

• Prior experience with Defence clearances.

• Advanced degrees or professional engineering/architectural certifications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "ideally, 12+ years" phrasing suggests that strong candidates with slightly less experience but exceptional relevant skills and a clear trajectory towards design management may still be considered. The mandatory requirement for Australian Citizenship and the preference for prior Defence clearance are critical notes for applicants.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Case Studies of Complex Projects: Detailed examples of successfully delivered large-scale, multidisciplinary projects, ideally within Defence or highly regulated sectors.

• Design Leadership Examples: Documentation showcasing leadership of design teams, including team structure, coordination strategies, and conflict resolution approaches.

• Technical Strategy & Planning: Examples of front-end design strategy development, including project execution plans, technical briefs, and scope management within challenging environments.

• Risk & Governance Documentation: Evidence of managing risk registers, technical assurance processes, and ensuring compliance with stringent regulatory and security protocols.

• Client Engagement & Requirements Translation: Demonstrations of how operational requirements were captured, translated into technical specifications, and managed throughout the design lifecycle.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Showcase experience in designing and optimizing workflows for multidisciplinary design processes, ensuring efficiency and integration.

• Implementation & Automation: Examples of implementing design processes, leveraging digital tools, and potentially automating aspects of design coordination or review.

• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Demonstrate how design project performance was measured, analyzed, and reported, focusing on outcomes related to buildability, safety, and asset performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, a portfolio should vividly illustrate the candidate's ability to manage complexity, integrate diverse technical inputs, and navigate the stringent compliance requirements of the Defence sector. Emphasis should be placed on documented outcomes and demonstrated leadership in challenging environments.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Based on industry benchmarks for a Design Manager with 10-12+ years of experience in Melbourne, Australia, within the Defence sector, the estimated salary range is AUD $160,000 - $210,000 per annum, potentially higher for candidates with highly specialized Defence clearances or extensive experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: This salary estimate is based on research of similar roles in Melbourne's engineering and construction sectors, considering the specialized nature of Defence projects and the seniority of the Design Manager position. Factors such as specific Defence clearances, candidate experience, and negotiation will influence the final offer.

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.

• "Flex public holidays" – ability to swap standard public holidays for others that better suit personal needs.

• Continuous learning and growth opportunities:

  • Lunch and learns
  • Professional development courses
  • Financial study assistance
  • 5 days paid study leave

• Global career opportunities within AECOM.

• Comprehensive well-being program.

Working Hours: While the exact hours are not specified, a standard full-time role in Australia is typically 38-40 hours per week. The mention of flexible work arrangements suggests some autonomy in structuring the workday, within the operational needs of Defence projects and client engagement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The benefits package is comprehensive, with a strong emphasis on professional development and work-life balance, which are attractive to senior professionals. The "Flex public holidays" and option to purchase additional leave are particularly noteworthy.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering, Construction, and Infrastructure Consulting, with a significant focus on Defence projects. AECOM is a global leader in designing and managing complex infrastructure projects across various sectors.

Company Size: AECOM is a Fortune 500 company, indicating a large, established global organization with a substantial presence in Australia. This means access to vast resources, diverse projects, and a structured corporate environment.

Founded: AECOM was founded in 2009 (through a merger, with predecessor companies dating back much further). This history signifies stability and deep industry expertise.

Team Structure:

• Defence Sector Focus: The role is within the Defence sector, implying a specialized team that understands the unique requirements, security protocols, and client relationships associated with government defence projects.

• Building Engineering Team: The role is part of the Building Engineering Team, suggesting collaboration with various building design and engineering disciplines.

• Multidisciplinary Integration: The core of the role is to lead and integrate these diverse disciplines, working closely with architects, structural engineers, MEP specialists, and other consultants.

• Reporting: Likely reports into a senior leadership position within the Defence business line or Building & Places group, such as a Technical Director or Principal.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: AECOM emphasizes digital capabilities and innovations, suggesting a data-driven approach to design, analysis, and project management.

• Integrated Project Delivery: The role's focus on leading integrated multidisciplinary teams points to a collaborative project delivery methodology.

• Quality Assurance & Risk Management: Rigorous processes for technical assurance, risk management, and compliance are paramount, especially within the Defence sector.

• Client-Centric Approach: A strong emphasis on understanding and meeting client requirements, particularly Defence stakeholders' operational needs.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's culture is characterized by its global reach, commitment to diversity, and focus on delivering complex projects. The Defence sector within AECOM will have a specific culture attuned to security, precision, and long-term relationships with government clients.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior-level Design Management role, requiring significant experience and leadership capability. It sits at the intersection of technical expertise and project management within a highly specialized industry.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will likely report to a senior leader within AECOM's Defence or Buildings & Places business group, such as a Director or Principal. They will be responsible for leading project-specific design teams, which may include discipline leads, engineers, designers, and external consultants.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's impact is critical to the successful delivery of Defence infrastructure projects. By ensuring cohesive, high-quality, and compliant designs, they directly influence project timelines, budgets, safety, functionality, and long-term asset performance. Their role is pivotal in translating strategic client needs into tangible, buildable solutions that meet the stringent demands of the Defence sector.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to move into more senior management roles within AECOM's Defence sector, such as Program Director, Sector Lead, or Principal Consultant.

• Specialization Deepening: Further specialization in specific Defence infrastructure types or complex engineering challenges.

• Global Mobility: Opportunities to leverage experience within AECOM's extensive international network.

• Professional Development: Continuous learning through AECOM's extensive training programs, certifications, and exposure to cutting-edge technologies and methodologies.

• Mentorship: Opportunities to mentor junior engineers and designers, contributing to the development of future talent within AECOM.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career progression within AECOM, particularly for those who excel in managing complex Defence projects. The emphasis on continuous learning and global opportunities provides a strong foundation for long-term professional development.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: AECOM operates a hybrid work model. This role is based in Melbourne, likely at a modern AECOM office facility, such as Collins Square. The environment is expected to be professional, collaborative, and equipped with the necessary technology for design and project management.

Office Location(s): Melbourne, Victoria, Australia (specifically, Collins Square is mentioned as the primary location). The company also has offices in Brisbane and Sydney, and while Adelaide is preferred for this role, flexibility exists.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The hybrid model encourages collaboration, with office days dedicated to team meetings, design reviews, stakeholder workshops, and integrated design sessions.

• Technology & Tools: Access to AECOM's advanced digital capabilities, design software, and project management platforms will be crucial.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for direct interaction with multidisciplinary design teams, project managers, and senior leadership within AECOM. The role requires significant face-to-face engagement for effective design integration and client liaison.

Work Schedule: The standard work week is likely 38-40 hours. Flexible work arrangements are offered, allowing for some autonomy in scheduling, but the demands of Defence projects and client interaction will necessitate flexibility and potential for extended hours during critical project phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role requires self-discipline and strong time management skills. While offering flexibility, the collaborative and client-facing aspects of Defence project management will still necessitate regular presence and engagement.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

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

• Technical Interview: In-depth discussion about technical expertise, design management experience, and understanding of Defence project requirements. This may involve scenario-based questions.

• Portfolio Review: Presentation of a portfolio showcasing relevant project experience, design leadership, and problem-solving skills. Candidates will be expected to articulate their role, challenges, and outcomes in detail.

• Stakeholder/Leadership Interview: Meeting with senior management to assess cultural fit, strategic thinking, and leadership potential.

• Reference Checks: Verification of employment history and performance.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Defence Relevance: Highlight projects that demonstrate experience in Defence or similarly regulated sectors. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., cost savings, schedule improvements, risk reduction).

• Showcase Integrated Design: Clearly illustrate how multidisciplinary teams were led and coordinated. Use diagrams or flowcharts to explain complex project structures.

• Demonstrate Problem-Solving: Present case studies that detail challenges encountered and the innovative solutions implemented, particularly those related to technical integration, scope management, or compliance.

• Client Interaction Examples: Provide examples of how operational requirements were captured and translated into technical briefs, and how client relationships were managed.

• Quantify Impact: Wherever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the impact of your design management on project success (e.g., adherence to budget, schedule, quality standards, safety performance).

Challenge Preparation:

• Technical Scenarios: Be prepared to discuss hypothetical design challenges within a Defence context and outline your approach to resolving them.

• Leadership Scenarios: Anticipate questions about managing difficult team dynamics, resolving conflicts, and motivating diverse teams.

• Contractual & Governance Questions: Refresh knowledge on Defence contractual frameworks (DSC, DSSC, MC) and compliance requirements.

• Company & Industry Research: Understand AECOM's strategic goals, its position in the Defence sector, and current industry trends.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is a critical component. Candidates should curate examples that directly address the core responsibilities and qualifications outlined, particularly those related to Defence projects, multidisciplinary integration, and stringent governance.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Platforms like Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Asana, or similar, for program control, scheduling, and task management.

• Design Software: Familiarity with BIM (Building Information Modeling) platforms such as Autodesk Revit, Navisworks, and potentially ArchiCAD. Understanding of their application in multidisciplinary coordination and clash detection is key.

• Collaboration Platforms: Tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, SharePoint, or similar for team communication, document sharing, and virtual collaboration.

• Document Management Systems: Experience with systems for managing large volumes of project documentation, including controlled versions and access protocols.

Analytics & Reporting:

• BIM Analytics Tools: Software integrated with BIM for analyzing model data, identifying clashes, and tracking progress.

• Data Visualization Tools: Potentially Tableau, Power BI, or similar for presenting project performance data and design insights to stakeholders.

• Reporting Dashboards: Ability to create and interpret dashboards for tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) related to design progress, budget, and compliance.

CRM & Automation:

• While not explicitly a CRM role, understanding how design inputs feed into broader project management and client relationship systems is beneficial.

• Familiarity with workflow automation tools or scripts that can enhance design coordination processes.

• Integration Tools: Understanding how different software platforms (e.g., BIM, PM software, document control) can be integrated to streamline workflows.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in BIM (Building Information Modeling) and associated coordination tools like Navisworks is highly expected given the multidisciplinary nature and complexity of Defence projects. The ability to leverage digital tools for efficiency and integration will be a significant advantage.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding the highest ethical standards, especially crucial in Defence and government projects.

• Excellence & Quality: A commitment to delivering best-in-class design solutions and technical outcomes.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive and integrated team environment where diverse perspectives are valued and contribute to project success.

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: Encouraging the adoption of new technologies and methodologies to enhance design processes and project delivery.

• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and exceeding client expectations, building strong, long-term relationships.

• Safety & Security: Prioritizing the safety of personnel and the security of project information in all operations.

Collaboration Style:

• Integrated Approach: Emphasizing cross-disciplinary collaboration from the outset to ensure seamless integration and minimize conflicts.

• Proactive Communication: Maintaining open and transparent communication channels with all project stakeholders, including clients, internal teams, and external consultants.

• Feedback-Driven: Encouraging a culture of constructive feedback to continuously improve design processes and project outcomes.

• Data-Informed Decision Making: Utilizing data and analytics to inform design decisions and performance assessments.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's stated values of integrity, excellence, collaboration, and innovation are likely to be strongly emphasized within the Defence sector, combined with a heightened focus on security and compliance.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Complex Stakeholder Needs: Balancing the diverse and often stringent requirements of Defence stakeholders, end-users, and AECOM's commercial objectives.

• Navigating Regulatory & Security Hurdles: Ensuring strict adherence to Defence standards, security protocols, and evolving government regulations.

• Integrating Diverse Disciplines: Effectively coordinating and managing potentially conflicting requirements from a wide array of engineering and architectural disciplines.

• Maintaining Programme & Budget Control: Delivering complex projects within tight deadlines and budget constraints, especially in a high-stakes sector.

• Adapting to Evolving Technologies: Keeping pace with advancements in digital design tools, BIM, and project management technologies.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Defence Sector Expertise: Deepening knowledge of Defence infrastructure requirements, procurement processes, and operational needs.

• Advanced Design Technologies: Training in state-of-the-art BIM, digital twin, and simulation technologies.

• Leadership & Management Skills: Development programs focused on strategic leadership, conflict resolution, and advanced project governance.

• Industry Certifications: Support for obtaining or maintaining relevant professional certifications (e.g., RPEQ, PMP, specific Defence accreditations).

• Cross-Sector Exposure: Opportunities to learn from AECOM's projects in other critical sectors like transport, water, and energy.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents significant challenges inherent in high-profile Defence projects, but these are balanced by substantial growth opportunities within a leading global firm. The primary growth path involves deepening expertise in Defence infrastructure and advancing into senior leadership roles.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you led a multidisciplinary design team through a complex project in a highly regulated environment. What were the key challenges, and how did you ensure successful integration and delivery?" (Focus on leadership, technical integration, and problem-solving for regulated sectors).

• "How would you translate ambiguous operational requirements from Defence stakeholders into clear, actionable technical briefs? Walk us through your process." (Assess client liaison, requirements gathering, and technical translation skills).

• "Imagine a significant design conflict arises between the structural and MEP teams on a Defence project. How would you facilitate a resolution that satisfies technical requirements, programme, and budget?" (Evaluate conflict resolution, negotiation, and decision-making under pressure).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracts you to AECOM and specifically to our Defence sector projects?" (Demonstrate research into AECOM's values, projects, and industry standing).

• "How do you foster a collaborative and inclusive environment within a diverse design team, especially when working on high-security Defence projects?" (Assess alignment with AECOM's D&I initiatives and team leadership style).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Begin with an overview of your career and design management philosophy. Then, present 2-3 key case studies that best represent your experience in Defence or complex projects.

• Storytelling: For each case study, clearly outline the project context, your specific role and responsibilities, the challenges faced (technical, client, contractual), the solutions you implemented, and the quantifiable outcomes achieved.

• Visuals: Use diagrams, models (if digital), and charts to illustrate complex designs, team structures, and process flows.

• Metrics: Emphasize metrics related to schedule adherence, budget management, risk mitigation, buildability, safety, and client satisfaction.

• Defence Focus: Explicitly link your experience and methodologies to the requirements of Defence projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should heavily focus on demonstrating a deep understanding of the Defence sector's unique demands, coupled with strong technical leadership and sophisticated project management skills. Case studies should be tailored to showcase these specific strengths.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on SmartRecruiters.

• Tailor your Resume: Highlight experience in Defence, highly regulated sectors, multidisciplinary design management, technical leadership, and client engagement. Quantify achievements using relevant metrics.

• Prepare your Portfolio: Curate 2-3 detailed case studies showcasing your most relevant Defence or complex project experience, focusing on leadership, integration, problem-solving, and outcomes. Ensure it addresses the requirements of this specific role.

• Research AECOM: Understand AECOM's global presence, its role in the Defence sector, its values, and its recent projects. This will help tailor your responses and demonstrate genuine interest.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare to answer behavioral and situational questions using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result), focusing on Defence-specific scenarios and demonstrating your leadership capabilities.

⚠️ 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.