Design Manager (Design Build)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager (Design Build)

Company: AECOM

Location: Los Angeles, California, United States

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Infrastructure Design Management / Design-Build Operations

Date Posted: September 12, 2025

Experience Level: 10+ Years

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage the design process for complex, large-scale highway infrastructure projects within a Design-Build delivery model, ensuring technical excellence and adherence to project objectives.

• Oversee project design schedules, budgets, and resource allocation, implementing robust change and risk management processes to maintain project integrity and profitability.

• Cultivate strong client relationships, acting as a key liaison to understand evolving needs, secure future opportunities, and ensure client satisfaction throughout the project lifecycle.

• Drive the continuous development of a high-performing design team through effective mentoring, staff development, and strategic hiring, fostering a culture of expertise and collaboration.

• Ensure strict compliance with all applicable codes, standards, and regulations governing highway design, integrating innovative solutions to enhance project efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the raw input specifies "Design Manager (Design Build)", the detailed responsibilities and qualifications strongly point towards a Senior Highway Project/Design Manager role with a focus on Design-Build delivery in the transportation sector. The role requires significant experience in managing complex highway projects and leading design teams, aligning with senior-level operations and project management functions within the infrastructure consulting domain.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the design efforts for large-scale, complex highway infrastructure projects, ensuring alignment with Design-Build contract requirements and client expectations.

• Develop and meticulously manage project design schedules, budgets, and resource allocation, proactively identifying and mitigating potential risks to project delivery and financial performance.

• Implement and oversee comprehensive change management processes, assessing the impact of design modifications on scope, schedule, and budget, and ensuring proper documentation and approvals.

• Foster and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with clients and Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs), acting as the primary point of contact for design-related matters and to explore future business development opportunities.

• Mentor, develop, and recruit skilled design professionals, cultivating a high-performing team capable of delivering exceptional project outcomes in a dynamic environment.

• Monitor contract compliance for design services, leading dispute resolution processes and ensuring all contractual obligations are met and properly documented.

• Actively contribute to and lead the development of winning Design-Build proposals, translating client needs into compelling technical solutions and competitive pricing strategies.

• Ensure strict adherence to all relevant codes, standards (e.g., AASHTO, state DOT standards), and regulations throughout the highway design process.

• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including engineers from various disciplines, architects, environmental specialists, and construction managers, to achieve integrated and optimized project solutions.

• Conduct regular project status meetings, preparing detailed and accurate reports for executive leadership and key stakeholders, highlighting progress, challenges, and mitigation plans.

• Drive the implementation of innovative design solutions that enhance project efficiency, cost-effectiveness, sustainability, and constructability.

• Manage project resources, including personnel, equipment, and materials, to ensure optimal utilization and project success.

• Develop and maintain comprehensive project documentation, including design plans, technical specifications, reports, and permit applications, ensuring accuracy and completeness.

• Represent AECOM at industry events, conferences, and client meetings, promoting the company's Design-Build capabilities and thought leadership in transportation infrastructure.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities listed are a direct expansion of the provided bullet points, contextualized within the infrastructure and Design-Build operations landscape. Emphasis has been placed on the strategic and managerial aspects critical for a Design Manager role, including client relationship management, proposal development, and team leadership, which are key indicators of operational oversight.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, or a closely related engineering discipline.

Experience:

• A minimum of ten (10) years of progressive experience in engineering project management, with a significant focus on highway and transportation infrastructure.

• Demonstrated experience in managing the full lifecycle of complex highway projects, from conceptual design through final construction documentation.

• Proven track record in a Design-Build project delivery environment, specifically managing the design phase of large, complex projects.

• Experience leading and managing diverse teams of engineers, designers, and technical support staff in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

Required Skills:

• Project Management: Expertise in planning, executing, and closing complex infrastructure projects, including scope definition, scheduling, budgeting, and resource management.

• Design Management: Proficient in overseeing and coordinating the design process, ensuring quality, constructability, and compliance with project requirements.

• Highway Design Principles: Strong understanding of civil engineering principles as applied to highway design, including geometric design, traffic analysis, drainage, and pavement design.

• Team Leadership & Mentoring: Proven ability to lead, motivate, and develop engineering teams, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.

• Client Relationship Management: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to build and maintain strong relationships with clients, stakeholders, and regulatory agencies.

• Financial Acumen: Experience in budget management, cost control, and financial forecasting for large-scale projects.

• Risk & Change Management: Proficiency in identifying, assessing, and mitigating project risks, and managing the change order process effectively.

• Contract Compliance: Thorough understanding of contract administration and compliance, particularly within Design-Build frameworks.

• Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and critical thinking skills to address complex technical and project management challenges.

• Communication: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and concisely to diverse audiences.

Preferred Skills:

• Design-Build Expertise: In-depth knowledge and practical experience with Design-Build delivery methodologies, including contract negotiation, risk allocation, and team integration.

• Transportation Sector Experience: Extensive background in the transportation sector, with specific experience on projects for state Departments of Transportation (DOTs) or similar public agencies.

• Business Development Acumen: Demonstrated ability to identify and pursue new business opportunities, contributing to the growth of the firm's project portfolio.

• Proficiency in Project Management Software: Familiarity with industry-standard project management tools (e.g., Primavera P6, Microsoft Project) and design software suites.

• Regulatory Knowledge: Deep understanding of California-specific transportation codes, standards, and permitting processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications are structured to reflect a senior-level operations role, emphasizing practical experience, leadership, and specialized knowledge in Design-Build and highway engineering. The distinction between required and preferred skills helps candidates self-assess their fit and identify areas for development.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design-Build Project Showcase: A curated selection of past Design-Build highway projects demonstrating successful end-to-end project management, from proposal to completion. Each case study should highlight specific challenges, design solutions, and project outcomes.

• Process Optimization Examples: Documented evidence of implementing process improvements within design workflows, such as efficiency gains, cost reductions, or quality enhancements, supported by quantifiable metrics.

• Team Leadership & Management Case Studies: Examples illustrating effective team leadership, staff development strategies, and conflict resolution within project teams.

• Client Engagement & Relationship Management: Demonstrations of successful client communication, expectation management, and relationship building that led to repeat business or positive project feedback.

• Risk Mitigation Strategies: Case studies detailing how potential risks were identified, assessed, and proactively mitigated within design projects, preventing significant delays or cost overruns.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Evidence of designing and optimizing complex engineering design workflows, demonstrating an understanding of critical path analysis, resource leveling, and interdependency management.

• Implementation & Automation: Examples of implementing new design processes, software tools, or automation techniques to improve efficiency, accuracy, and collaboration within design teams.

• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Documentation of how project performance metrics (e.g., schedule adherence, budget variance, quality control results, client satisfaction scores) were tracked, analyzed, and reported to drive continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section outlines expectations for a portfolio that showcases not just technical design skills but also the operational and managerial capabilities crucial for a Design Manager. It emphasizes process-driven achievements and quantifiable results, aligning with the operational focus of the role.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans designed to support employee and family well-being.

• Life and Disability Insurance: Coverage including Life Insurance, Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D), and Disability Benefits to provide financial security.

• Paid Time Off & Leave: Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) accrual, various Leaves of Absences, and holidays to promote work-life balance.

• Retirement Savings: A robust Retirement Savings Plan, likely a 401(k) with employer matching, and an Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) to foster long-term financial growth.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for continuous learning through training programs, certifications, and potential tuition assistance.

• Additional Perks: Access to voluntary benefits, employee assistance programs, well-being resources, and perks that enhance the overall employee experience.

• Flexible Work Options: While the role is primarily on-site, AECOM may offer flexibility in work arrangements where feasible.

• Business Travel Insurance: Coverage for employees undertaking business travel.

• Service Recognition Awards: Programs to acknowledge and reward long-term commitment and contributions to the company.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time work hours are typically 40 hours per week. However, the nature of project management, especially in Design-Build, may require flexibility and extended hours during critical project phases or to meet client deadlines. Frequent travel to project and client sites is also expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on industry data for similar roles in the specified location. AECOM's stated benefits are comprehensive and align with those offered by large, established engineering consulting firms. The mention of frequent travel is crucial for candidates to consider.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: AECOM operates within the Global Infrastructure Consulting industry, providing a wide range of services from planning and design to program and construction management for transportation, water, environment, energy, and buildings sectors. This broad scope allows for diverse project experiences and cross-sectoral learning opportunities.

Company Size: As a Fortune 500 firm with over 50,000 employees globally, AECOM offers the stability and resources of a large corporation while fostering opportunities for specialized career growth. This scale means a well-established operational framework and access to extensive internal expertise.

Founded: AECOM traces its roots back to 1910, signifying a long history of engineering excellence and adaptation within the infrastructure sector. This legacy suggests a culture that values experience, technical proficiency, and long-term client relationships.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager will likely lead a dedicated team of highway designers, engineers, and technical specialists focused on specific projects or client portfolios.

• This role typically reports to a higher-level Project Director, Operations Manager, or Practice Lead within the Transportation business unit.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: AECOM emphasizes leveraging data analytics and performance metrics to inform project decisions, optimize resource allocation, and drive efficiency improvements in design processes.

• Integrated Project Delivery: The company promotes collaborative approaches like Design-Build, encouraging integrated project teams that work cohesively to achieve shared objectives and manage risks effectively.

• Innovation and Technology Adoption: AECOM actively seeks and implements innovative design solutions and cutting-edge technologies, such as BIM (Building Information Modeling) and digital twins, to enhance project outcomes and client value.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: This section contextualizes AECOM as a major player in the infrastructure consulting field, highlighting its size, history, and operational approach. Understanding this context is vital for operations professionals to gauge the work environment and potential for impact.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position is a senior-level role within the operations and project management track of AECOM's infrastructure business. It signifies a transition from individual contributor or team lead to managing significant project portfolios and client relationships, with a strong emphasis on operational efficiency, risk management, and business development within the Design-Build framework.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will report to a senior leader within the transportation division, such as a Project Director or Vice President of Operations. They will, in turn, manage and mentor a team of engineers and designers, influencing the operational execution of multiple complex projects.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct and substantial impact on AECOM's revenue and profitability by ensuring the successful, efficient, and high-quality delivery of Design-Build highway projects. Effective management of design, budgets, and client relationships directly contributes to client satisfaction, repeat business, and the firm's reputation in the market.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to advance into roles such as Project Director, Program Manager, or Business Unit Lead, overseeing larger and more complex portfolios or business segments.

• Technical Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific areas of highway design, Design-Build methodologies, or advanced project management techniques.

• Business Development: Development of skills in client engagement, proposal management, and strategic account management, leading to increased responsibility in securing new projects.

• Mentorship and Training: Opportunities to mentor junior staff, develop training programs, and potentially contribute to AECOM's internal knowledge management and best practices.

• Industry Influence: Potential to become a recognized expert in the field through participation in industry associations, conferences, and publications.

📝 Enhancement Note: This analysis frames the role within a typical career progression for operations professionals in the engineering and construction sector, emphasizing the strategic and leadership components that contribute to career growth beyond technical design.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The position is based in AECOM's Los Angeles office, which is likely a modern, professional corporate environment supporting extensive collaboration and project delivery activities. It serves as a hub for client meetings, team coordination, and administrative functions.

Office Location(s): The primary office is in Los Angeles, CA. However, the role requires frequent travel to project sites, client offices, and potentially other AECOM regional offices as needed for project oversight and business development.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Spaces: The office environment will likely feature a mix of open-plan workstations, private offices, and meeting rooms equipped with AV technology to facilitate team collaboration and client presentations.

• Technology Integration: Access to AECOM's robust IT infrastructure, including high-performance workstations, design software, project management platforms, and secure network access, is expected.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular face-to-face interaction with project teams, management, and support staff, fostering a strong sense of team cohesion and facilitating efficient communication.

Work Schedule:

• While the standard work week is 40 hours, the demands of managing large Design-Build projects often necessitate flexibility. Candidates should be prepared for extended hours, particularly during critical design phases, proposal deadlines, and project milestones. Travel is an integral part of the role, requiring adaptability to varying schedules and locations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides practical insights into the day-to-day work environment, highlighting the blend of office-based collaboration and the necessity of on-site presence and travel, which are critical operational considerations for this role.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A recruiter or hiring manager will likely conduct an initial phone screen to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.

• Technical Interview: Expect interviews with senior engineers, project directors, and potentially peers to delve into technical expertise, project management methodologies, and experience with Design-Build projects.

• Case Study/Presentation: Candidates may be asked to present a portfolio of relevant projects, focusing on their role, challenges faced, solutions implemented, and outcomes achieved, particularly in managing design processes and teams.

• Behavioral & Situational Interviews: Questions will assess leadership style, problem-solving approaches, client management skills, and how candidates handle challenging situations.

• Final Interview: A final discussion with senior leadership to confirm suitability for the role, discuss compensation, and outline the next steps.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Design-Build: Prioritize showcasing projects delivered under Design-Build contracts, highlighting your specific contributions to managing the design phase, client coordination, and team leadership.

• Quantify Achievements: Wherever possible, use metrics to demonstrate impact – e.g., budget savings achieved through design optimization, schedule improvements, reduction in RFIs or change orders due to proactive design management.

• Tell a Story: Structure your project presentations to tell a compelling narrative: the challenge, your approach, the execution, and the results. Emphasize your role in problem-solving and driving successful outcomes.

• Highlight Leadership: Provide concrete examples of how you managed, mentored, and motivated your design teams, fostering collaboration and ensuring high performance.

• Client Focus: Demonstrate your ability to understand and meet client needs, manage expectations, and build strong, lasting relationships.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design-Build Scenarios: Be prepared to discuss hypothetical Design-Build project challenges, such as scope creep, unforeseen site conditions, or coordination issues between design and construction, and outline your strategic approach to resolving them.

• Team Management Scenarios: Anticipate questions about managing underperforming team members, resolving team conflicts, or motivating a team through difficult project phases.

• Client Negotiation: Practice articulating your approach to client negotiations, particularly regarding design changes, scope adjustments, and contract interpretation.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides actionable advice for candidates on how to navigate the interview process and present their qualifications effectively, with a specific emphasis on showcasing their operational and leadership capabilities relevant to Design-Build projects.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency with industry-standard tools such as Primavera P6, Microsoft Project, or similar platforms for scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking.

• Design Software Suites: Familiarity with CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, MicroStation) and potentially BIM (Building Information Modeling) platforms (e.g., Autodesk Revit, Bentley Systems) used for infrastructure design and visualization.

• Document Management Systems: Experience with systems for organizing, storing, and sharing project documentation and technical reports.

• Collaboration Platforms: Utilization of tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for team communication, file sharing, and virtual collaboration.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Performance Tracking Tools: Ability to use project management software and other tools to track key performance indicators (KPIs) related to schedule adherence, budget variance, and resource utilization.

• Reporting Software: Skills in generating comprehensive project reports for stakeholders, potentially using tools like Microsoft Excel, Power BI, or specialized project reporting software.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: Familiarity with Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems (e.g., Salesforce) for managing client interactions, tracking business development activities, and nurturing relationships.

• Workflow Automation: Understanding of how to leverage technology to automate repetitive tasks within the design and project management processes, improving efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: This outlines the typical technology stack for a role of this nature, focusing on tools essential for managing complex projects, facilitating collaboration, and ensuring efficient operations within an engineering consulting firm.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Delivery: A commitment to high-quality engineering design and project execution, meeting or exceeding client expectations and industry standards.

• Collaboration and Teamwork: Fostering a supportive and collaborative environment where team members share knowledge, provide constructive feedback, and work together towards common goals.

• Integrity and Accountability: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all business dealings and taking ownership of responsibilities and project outcomes.

• Innovation and Continuous Improvement: Encouraging the adoption of new technologies and methodologies to enhance efficiency, sustainability, and problem-solving capabilities.

• Client Focus: Prioritizing client needs and building strong, long-term relationships based on trust, responsiveness, and delivering value.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Actively promoting seamless collaboration between design teams, project management, construction, environmental, and other disciplines to ensure holistic project success.

• Open Communication: Encouraging transparent and frequent communication channels, where issues and concerns can be raised and addressed promptly and effectively.

• Feedback and Learning Culture: Creating an environment where constructive feedback is welcomed and utilized for personal and team development, fostering a culture of continuous learning and adaptation.

📝 Enhancement Note: These values and collaboration styles are typical for a large, established engineering firm like AECOM, emphasizing professionalism, teamwork, and a results-oriented approach essential for managing complex infrastructure operations.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Large, Complex Projects: The inherent complexity of large highway Design-Build projects, involving multiple stakeholders, stringent regulations, and significant budgets, presents ongoing challenges in coordination and execution.

• Balancing Design and Business Objectives: Effectively balancing the technical demands of design with the financial and contractual requirements of Design-Build projects, while meeting client expectations.

• Navigating Regulatory Environments: Ensuring compliance with diverse and evolving local, state, and federal regulations, permits, and environmental standards.

• Team Dynamics in Fast-Paced Environments: Leading and motivating diverse teams in a high-pressure, deadline-driven setting, ensuring consistent performance and high morale.

• Adopting New Technologies: Staying abreast of and effectively integrating new design software, BIM technologies, and project management tools to maintain a competitive edge.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design-Build Certifications: Pursuing certifications such as DBIA (Design-Build Institute of America) to enhance expertise in Design-Build delivery.

• Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification: Gaining or maintaining PMP certification to further strengthen project management skills and credentials.

• Leadership Development Programs: Participating in AECOM's internal leadership and management training to hone skills in team management, strategic planning, and business development.

• Industry Conferences & Workshops: Attending industry events to network, learn about emerging trends, and gain insights into best practices in highway design and project delivery.

• Mentorship: Engaging with senior leaders within AECOM for mentorship, gaining valuable career guidance and industry insights.

📝 Enhancement Note: Identifying potential challenges and outlining specific learning opportunities helps candidates prepare for the demands of the role and understand the growth trajectory AECOM offers within its operations framework.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design-Build Project Lifecycle: Be prepared to discuss your end-to-end experience with Design-Build projects, detailing your role in each phase, from proposal development and risk assessment to final design delivery and closeout. Focus on how you managed the interplay between design and construction.

• Client Management & Expectations: Articulate your strategy for managing client relationships, understanding their needs, setting realistic expectations, and ensuring client satisfaction throughout a large infrastructure project. Provide examples of successful client engagement.

• Team Leadership & Performance: Describe your approach to building and leading high-performing design teams. How do you motivate individuals, manage performance, resolve conflicts, and foster a collaborative environment, especially under pressure?

• Risk Management in Design: Discuss your methodologies for identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks inherent in complex highway design projects, particularly within a Design-Build context. Provide examples of proactive risk management strategies you've implemented.

• Optimizing Design Processes: How do you identify opportunities for process improvement in design workflows? Provide specific examples of initiatives you've led to enhance efficiency, quality, or cost-effectiveness.

Company & Culture Questions:

• AECOM's Values: Research AECOM's mission, vision, and core values. Be ready to discuss how your personal values and professional approach align with the company's culture, particularly regarding integrity, collaboration, and innovation.

• Team Dynamics: Consider how you would integrate into AECOM's existing project teams and contribute to a positive and productive work environment. Think about how you foster collaboration and knowledge sharing.

• Impact Measurement: Be prepared to discuss how you measure the success and impact of your design management efforts, focusing on key performance indicators relevant to project delivery, client satisfaction, and business outcomes.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Highlight Design-Build Expertise: Select 2-3 key Design-Build projects that best showcase your capabilities in managing complex highway designs, client engagement, and team leadership.

• Quantify Your Contributions: For each project, clearly state the project's scale, your specific responsibilities, the challenges you faced, the solutions you implemented, and the measurable outcomes (e.g., budget savings, schedule adherence, quality improvements).

• Focus on Operational Efficiency: Emphasize how you managed design processes, resources, and risks to ensure efficient project delivery and profitability.

• Demonstrate Leadership: Use your portfolio to illustrate your leadership style, your ability to motivate teams, and how you fostered collaboration to achieve project goals.

• Prepare for Q&A: Anticipate questions about your decision-making process, problem-solving approaches, and how you handle specific project scenarios.

📝 Enhancement Note: This detailed preparation guide focuses on anticipating the types of questions and evaluation criteria relevant to a senior operations role in Design-Build project management, ensuring candidates are well-equipped to demonstrate their capabilities.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit Your Application: Complete and submit your application through the provided link on the AECOM careers portal. Ensure all required fields are accurately filled.

• Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume to highlight your extensive experience in highway design, Design-Build project delivery, team leadership, client management, and budget/schedule control. Use keywords from the job description and operations industry terminology.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Compile a professional portfolio that showcases your most relevant Design-Build highway projects. Focus on demonstrating your operational management skills, process improvements, and quantifiable achievements in team leadership and project success.

• Research AECOM: Thoroughly research AECOM's projects, values, and recent news. Understand their approach to infrastructure development and Design-Build delivery to articulate your alignment during interviews.

• Practice Your Presentation: Rehearse your portfolio presentation and prepare clear, concise answers to potential interview questions, focusing on demonstrating your leadership, problem-solving abilities, and operational expertise.

⚠️ 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.