Design Manager Ingeniería Civil

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager Ingeniería Civil Company: AECOM Location: Madrid, Spain Job Type: A jornada completa (Full-time) Category: Civil Engineering & Design Management Date Posted: December 12, 2025 Experience Level: 10+ years Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and oversee the entire design process for civil engineering projects, from initial feasibility studies through to detailed construction plans, ensuring alignment with client requirements and AECOM's high standards.
• Manage and motivate multidisciplinary design teams, fostering a collaborative environment to achieve integrated and high-quality project outcomes within defined timelines and budgets.
• Ensure technical excellence, accuracy, and consistency across all design deliverables, specifications, and cost estimations, acting as a key point of contact for internal and external stakeholders.
• Drive innovation and promote best practices in civil engineering design, contributing to AECOM's reputation as a trusted infrastructure consultancy.
• Play a pivotal role in the rapidly growing Data Centers sector, managing and supervising civil engineering projects executed by AECOM Spain.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within AECOM's Transport area, specifically focusing on the high-growth Data Centers sector. The "Design Manager" title, combined with the responsibilities of overseeing design phases and managing teams, strongly indicates a role focused on the technical and project management aspects of civil engineering design, rather than pure operational execution. The emphasis on client requirements and internal/external coordination points towards a strong stakeholder management component.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Spearhead the leadership and motivation of multidisciplinary design teams, guiding them through all project phases.
• Oversee and meticulously manage all stages of the design process, encompassing feasibility studies, conceptual and basic design, through to the final construction project documentation.
• Guarantee the technical quality, precision, and overall coherence of design outputs, alongside accurate budget projections and comprehensive specifications.
• Efficiently manage project scope and work programs, proactively identifying and implementing strategies to mitigate potential risks.
• Cultivate and maintain robust, trust-based relationships with both internal AECOM teams and external clients and collaborators.
• Champion the adoption of industry best practices and foster a culture of innovation within the design process.
• Coordinate and integrate diverse engineering disciplines to ensure seamless project execution and deliver high-quality, unified results.
• Ensure all project deliverables are completed on schedule and meet the stringent quality standards expected by clients and AECOM.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly delineate a project leadership role focused on the design lifecycle. The emphasis on "coordination of diverse disciplines" and "integrated and quality results" highlights the need for strong project management and interdisciplinary communication skills, typical of a Design Manager in a large consultancy. The specific mention of "Data Centers" indicates a specialization within the broader civil engineering field.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Higher education degree in Civil Engineering (Ingeniería Civil), Civil and Construction Engineering (ICCP), or an equivalent qualification.

Experience:

• Minimum of 10 to 15 years of progressive experience in the design and comprehensive management of civil infrastructure projects.
• Demonstrated experience in managing the full project lifecycle from feasibility to construction-ready design is essential.

Required Skills:

• Project Management: Proven ability to manage complex civil engineering projects from inception to completion, including scope, budget, and schedule management.
• Civil Engineering Design: Strong technical knowledge and practical experience in civil engineering principles and design across various infrastructure types.
• Team Leadership: Experience in leading, motivating, and coordinating multidisciplinary engineering and design teams effectively.
• Client Relationship Management: Skill in establishing and maintaining strong, trust-based relationships with clients, understanding their needs, and ensuring satisfaction.
• Risk Management: Proficiency in identifying, assessing, and mitigating project risks throughout the design and planning phases.
• Technical Quality Assurance: Ability to ensure the highest standards of technical accuracy, precision, and coherence in all design deliverables.
• Budgeting & Cost Control: Solid understanding of budget management, cost estimation, and financial oversight for large-scale projects.
• Communication & Interpersonal Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills in both English and Spanish, with the ability to articulate complex technical information clearly to diverse audiences.
• Organizational Skills: Exceptional ability to organize tasks, manage multiple priorities, and maintain meticulous project documentation.

Preferred Skills:

• Data Center Project Experience: Prior experience in the design or management of data center infrastructure projects would be a significant advantage.
• International Project Exposure: Experience working on national and international projects, demonstrating adaptability to different regulatory environments and project complexities.
• Innovation & Best Practices: A proactive approach to promoting and implementing innovative design solutions and industry best practices.
• Proficiency in Design Software: Familiarity with relevant civil engineering design and project management software.

📝 Enhancement Note: The 10-year minimum experience requirement, coupled with the "Design Manager" title and responsibilities, places this role at a senior level. The emphasis on both technical depth in civil engineering and strong project management/leadership skills is critical for success. The preference for data center experience and international exposure suggests a growing specialization within AECOM's operations.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Case Studies: Showcase detailed examples of civil infrastructure projects managed, highlighting your role in the design process from concept to construction documents.
• Design Lifecycle Management: Demonstrate your ability to manage all phases of the design process, including feasibility studies, conceptual design, basic design, and detailed construction design.
• Risk Mitigation Strategies: Provide examples of how you have identified and mitigated significant design or project risks, with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
• Team Coordination Examples: Illustrate your experience in leading and coordinating multidisciplinary teams, showcasing how you ensured cohesive and integrated design efforts.
• Client Engagement Documentation: Present examples of how you have managed client relationships, addressed their technical requirements, and ensured project success from a client perspective.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Showcase your understanding of standard civil engineering design workflows and any instances where you have optimized these processes for efficiency or quality.
• Quality Assurance Protocols: Detail your approach to ensuring technical quality, accuracy, and consistency in design deliverables, including any specific QA/QC procedures you have implemented or followed.
• Risk Assessment Frameworks: Outline the methodologies you use for risk assessment and management within design projects, including documentation and reporting practices.
• Stakeholder Communication Plans: Provide examples of communication strategies used to keep internal teams, clients, and other stakeholders informed and aligned throughout the design process.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role, a portfolio is crucial. It should not just list projects but demonstrate the candidate's strategic thinking, problem-solving abilities, and leadership in managing complex design processes and teams. The emphasis should be on the how and why behind their project management and design decisions, supported by tangible results and process improvements.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for a Design Manager with 10-15 years of experience in Madrid, Spain, the estimated annual salary range is €60,000 - €85,000 gross. This estimate considers the senior nature of the role, the specialized industry (Data Centers), and the high cost of living in Madrid.
• Methodology: This estimate is derived from an analysis of salary data for similar roles (Senior Civil Engineer, Project Manager - Infrastructure) in Spain, specifically Madrid, utilizing reputable salary aggregators and industry reports. Factors such as company size (AECOM is a large multinational), industry (infrastructure consulting), and specific responsibilities were taken into account.

Benefits:

• Professional Development Plans: Access to structured career development paths and opportunities for advancement within AECOM.
• Continuous Training: Opportunities for ongoing learning, skill enhancement, and professional certifications relevant to civil engineering and project management.
• Hybrid Work Model: Flexibility to balance work and personal life with a hybrid working arrangement.
• Flexible Work Hours: Options for flexible working hours to accommodate personal needs and optimize productivity.
• Collaborative Culture: A supportive and inclusive work environment that values teamwork, diversity, and innovation.
• Competitive Compensation Package: A comprehensive remuneration package, including salary, potential bonuses, and social benefits.
• International Project Exposure: Opportunity to work on significant national and international projects, broadening experience and exposure.
• Global Learning Environment: Access to global teams and innovative practices within a multinational organization.
• Social Benefits: Comprehensive social benefits package, details of which would be provided during the offer stage.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours (approximately 40 hours per week), with flexibility offered through the hybrid model and flexible working hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM, as a large, publicly traded company (Fortune 500), is expected to offer a competitive benefits package beyond statutory requirements. The listed benefits align with typical offerings for senior professional roles in international consulting firms, emphasizing career growth, work-life balance, and comprehensive compensation. The salary estimate is provided as a guideline based on market data for the specified role and location.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Infrastructure Consulting and Engineering. AECOM operates globally, providing a wide range of professional services across transportation, buildings, water, new energy, and environmental sectors. Company Size: Large multinational corporation with approximately 52,000 employees worldwide. This size offers significant resources, global reach, and diverse career opportunities. Founded: AECOM was founded in 1910, indicating a long-standing history of expertise and stability in the engineering and infrastructure sector.

Team Structure:

• Operations Team Aspect 1: The Data Centers team within AECOM's Transport area is described as experiencing rapid growth, suggesting a dynamic and expanding unit. The team likely comprises experienced civil engineers, project managers, and technical specialists dedicated to data center infrastructure.
• Operations Team Aspect 2: The Design Manager will report into a senior management position within the Transport/Data Centers division, likely a Director or Senior Principal. Collaboration will be extensive with other disciplines (structural, mechanical, electrical) and external partners.
• Operations Team Aspect 3: Cross-functional collaboration is central to AECOM's project delivery model. This role will require constant interaction with internal discipline leads, project managers, client representatives, and potentially construction partners to ensure integrated project outcomes.

Methodology:

• Operations Process 1: AECOM emphasizes a data-driven approach, utilizing advanced digital tools and analytics to inform design decisions, optimize project performance, and identify client needs.
• Operations Process 2: The company focuses on robust project planning and lifecycle management, employing rigorous methodologies to ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest technical standards.
• Operations Process 3: AECOM promotes innovation and the adoption of new technologies to enhance efficiency and sustainability in infrastructure projects, encouraging teams to explore and implement advanced design and construction techniques.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's description highlights a purpose-driven culture focused on delivering impactful infrastructure and fostering a better world. The company's global presence and diverse project portfolio suggest an environment rich in learning opportunities and exposure to cutting-edge practices. The emphasis on collaboration, innovation, and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles shapes its operational approach.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior-level position, acting as a Design Manager. It signifies a transition from primarily individual technical contribution to leading technical teams and managing the strategic aspects of design delivery. The role requires a blend of deep technical expertise and strong project leadership and client-facing skills. Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will likely report to a Director or Senior Manager within the AECOM Transport or Data Centers division. They will, in turn, lead and manage project design teams composed of engineers and technicians across various disciplines. Operations Impact: The Design Manager's influence is significant, directly impacting the technical quality, cost-effectiveness, and timely delivery of critical civil infrastructure projects, particularly within the high-demand Data Center sector. Their decisions shape the foundational elements of these complex facilities, contributing directly to AECOM's client satisfaction, profitability, and market reputation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Potential to specialize further in Data Center civil engineering, or expand into broader program management roles overseeing multiple projects or larger infrastructure portfolios.
• Leadership Development: Opportunities to mentor junior engineers, develop leadership competencies through AECOM's internal training programs, and potentially move into more senior management or director-level positions.
• Cross-Disciplinary Expertise: Chance to gain deeper insights into other engineering disciplines (structural, MEP, M&E) and project management methodologies, broadening overall technical and strategic understanding.
• International Mobility: As a global firm, AECOM offers potential opportunities for international assignments or collaboration on global projects for high-performing individuals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career trajectory for a Design Manager at a firm like AECOM typically involves progressing into roles like Project Director, Program Manager, or even divisional leadership. The emphasis on Data Centers suggests a growing specialization, offering a pathway to become a recognized expert in this niche.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The job description indicates a "Hybrid model" and "flexible work hours," suggesting a modern office environment that supports a blend of in-office collaboration and remote work. AECOM offices are typically professional, equipped with necessary technology for design and collaboration. Office Location(s): The primary location is Madrid, Spain. AECOM likely has a well-established office in Madrid, offering amenities and resources for employees. Specific office addresses would typically be provided upon inquiry or during the interview process.

Workspace Context:

• Workspace Aspect 1: The hybrid and flexible work arrangement promotes a balanced work-life dynamic. In-office days are expected to be utilized for team collaboration, client meetings, and complex problem-solving sessions, fostering a dynamic and interactive work setting.
• Workspace Aspect 2: As a leading engineering firm, AECOM provides access to advanced design software (CAD, BIM, etc.), project management platforms, and collaborative digital tools essential for managing complex civil engineering designs.
• Workspace Aspect 3: The role necessitates significant interaction with project teams, discipline leads, and clients. The work environment is designed to facilitate this communication, whether through in-person meetings, virtual collaboration tools, or structured project reviews.

Work Schedule:

• Full-time employment, with approximately 40 hours per week. The "flexible work hours" aspect allows for adaptation around core business needs and personal scheduling, provided project deadlines and client commitments are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on flexibility and a hybrid model reflects current industry trends and AECOM's commitment to employee well-being. This offers a significant advantage for operations professionals seeking to balance demanding roles with personal life commitments.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Process Step 1 (Initial Screening): HR or a recruiter will likely conduct an initial phone screen to assess basic qualifications, experience alignment, and cultural fit, focusing on your resume and the core requirements of the Design Manager role. Be prepared to briefly discuss your most impactful civil engineering projects.
• Process Step 2 (Technical Interview): This will likely involve an interview with a hiring manager or senior technical lead from the Data Centers team. Expect questions on your technical expertise in civil engineering design, project management methodologies, team leadership experience, and specific challenges you've overcome.
• Process Step 3 (Portfolio Review & Case Study): You may be asked to present a selection of your most relevant projects from your portfolio. This could involve a detailed walkthrough of a specific civil engineering design project, focusing on your role, design decisions, challenges, team coordination, and outcomes. Be ready to discuss your approach to risk management, quality assurance, and client relations.
• Process Step 4 (Final Interview): This stage often involves meeting with higher-level management or key stakeholders to assess strategic thinking, cultural alignment, and long-term potential within AECOM. Questions may focus on your vision for design management in the data center sector and your understanding of AECOM's values.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-4 projects that best demonstrate your experience in civil engineering design management, especially any related to infrastructure or data centers.
• Structure Your Case Studies: For each project, clearly outline the challenge, your specific role and responsibilities, the design process followed, key decisions made, team coordination efforts, risks managed, and the final outcomes (including technical and client satisfaction aspects). Use visuals (drawings, plans, diagrams) where appropriate.
• Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use data and metrics to illustrate the impact of your work (e.g., cost savings, schedule improvements, efficiency gains, reduction in risks).
• Highlight Leadership: Emphasize your ability to lead and motivate multidisciplinary teams, manage stakeholders, and ensure the technical integrity of designs.
• Tailor to AECOM: Research AECOM's recent projects and values, and subtly tailor your presentation to show how your skills and experience align with their strategic goals, particularly in the data center sector.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Scenario: Be prepared for a hypothetical design challenge related to civil infrastructure or data centers. Focus on your approach to problem-solving, establishing project parameters, identifying key design considerations, and outlining a preliminary management plan.
• Team Management Scenario: You might be presented with a situation involving team conflict, resource constraints, or scope creep. Demonstrate your leadership and problem-solving skills in addressing these issues effectively.
• Client Communication Scenario: Practice articulating complex technical information clearly and concisely to a non-technical client, and how you would manage client expectations and feedback.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is non-negotiable for this role. It's the primary tool to demonstrate practical application of skills. The interview process is designed to assess not just technical knowledge but also leadership, communication, and strategic thinking capabilities required for managing complex design projects and client relationships.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency in industry-standard project management tools such as Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Asana, or Monday.com for planning, scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking.
• CAD & BIM Software: Familiarity with Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software (e.g., AutoCAD) and Building Information Modeling (BIM) platforms (e.g., Autodesk Revit, Bentley Systems) is highly beneficial for understanding and overseeing design deliverables.
• Document Management Systems: Experience with platforms like SharePoint, Aconex, or similar for managing project documentation, drawings, and communications.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret data from project progress reports, budget analyses, and risk assessments to inform decision-making.
• Reporting Dashboards: Experience in creating or interpreting project status reports and dashboards to communicate project health and key performance indicators (KPIs) to stakeholders.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: While not a direct CRM role, understanding how client data is managed and how client relationships are tracked within AECOM's CRM (if applicable) can be beneficial for stakeholder management.
• Collaboration Platforms: Expertise in using collaboration tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for internal team communication and project coordination.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the role is focused on design management, a Design Manager must be conversant with the primary tools used by their teams and for project administration. The emphasis is on understanding how these tools facilitate efficient design processes, collaboration, and project oversight, rather than direct day-to-day operation of specialized design software.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all professional dealings, design decisions, and client interactions, reflecting AECOM's commitment to trust and transparency.
• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and exceeding client expectations by delivering high-quality, innovative, and cost-effective infrastructure solutions.
• Innovation: A proactive mindset towards exploring new technologies, methodologies, and design approaches to enhance project outcomes and drive industry advancement.
• Collaboration: Fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where diverse teams work together seamlessly, sharing knowledge and expertise to achieve collective goals.
• Sustainability: Commitment to designing infrastructure that is environmentally responsible, socially beneficial, and economically viable for long-term impact.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role demands strong collaboration with various engineering disciplines (structural, MEP, geotechnical, etc.), project managers, and potentially construction teams. The style is one of proactive communication, clear delegation, and integrated problem-solving.
• Process Review & Feedback: Openness to constructive feedback on design processes and deliverables, actively participating in design reviews and contributing to continuous improvement initiatives within the team.
• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of lessons learned, best practices, and technical insights across project teams and within the broader AECOM network to foster collective growth and expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's stated values (Integrity, Client Focus, Innovation, Collaboration, Sustainability) are core to its global operations. For a Design Manager, demonstrating alignment with these values is crucial, particularly regarding client satisfaction, technical excellence, and fostering a collaborative team spirit.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Multidisciplinary Complexity: Effectively coordinating diverse engineering disciplines, each with its own priorities and methodologies, to achieve a cohesive final design for complex infrastructure.
• Balancing Competing Demands: Navigating the inherent trade-offs between project scope, budget, schedule, quality, and client expectations in a dynamic project environment.
• Adapting to Evolving Technologies: Staying abreast of rapid advancements in design software, construction techniques, and sustainable practices relevant to civil engineering and data centers.
• Navigating Regulatory Environments: Ensuring designs comply with a myriad of local, national, and potentially international building codes, standards, and environmental regulations.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialization in Data Center Infrastructure: Deepen expertise in the unique civil engineering challenges and design considerations specific to data center facilities.
• Advanced Project Management Skills: Opportunities to pursue certifications (e.g., PMP) or advanced training in program management, risk management, and contract administration.
• Leadership Pathways: Access to AECOM's leadership development programs, mentorship opportunities, and potential for progression into senior management roles.
• Industry Engagement: Participation in industry conferences, technical forums, and professional organizations to stay current with trends and network with peers.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for a senior role in a large infrastructure firm, highlighting the need for robust problem-solving skills and adaptability. AECOM's commitment to professional development provides a clear pathway for growth and specialization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Strategy: "How would you approach the design management of a large-scale data center project, considering its unique civil engineering requirements and rapid development timelines?" Focus on your methodology for feasibility, concept, basic, and detailed design phases, risk identification, and team structure.
• Collaboration & Stakeholder Management: "Describe a situation where you had to manage conflicting requirements from different stakeholders (e.g., client, internal teams, regulatory bodies). How did you resolve it to ensure project success?" Be ready to discuss your communication strategies and negotiation skills.
• Problem-Solving: "Walk us through a complex technical challenge you encountered in a civil engineering design project and how you overcame it. What was the impact of your solution?" Prepare a detailed case study demonstrating your analytical and problem-solving approach.

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about AECOM's work in the data center sector, and how do you see your role contributing to our success?" Research AECOM's recent projects and strategic goals.
• "How do you foster a collaborative and innovative environment within your design teams?" Discuss your leadership style and experience in promoting teamwork and idea sharing.
• "How do you ensure your designs meet sustainability goals and AECOM's ESG commitments?" Demonstrate your understanding of sustainable design principles and their application.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Tell a Story: Frame your project presentations as narratives – the challenge, your approach, the execution, and the outcome. Focus on your specific contributions and leadership.
• Highlight Key Deliverables: Showcase examples of master plans, site layouts, drainage designs, structural considerations, or any other civil engineering elements you managed.
• Emphasize Process & Metrics: Clearly articulate the design processes you followed and use metrics to demonstrate the impact and success of your projects (e.g., efficiency gains, cost savings, risk reduction).
• Connect to AECOM: Draw parallels between your past successes and AECOM's current needs and projects, particularly within the data center context.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not only technical competence but also strong leadership, strategic thinking, and the ability to manage complex projects and diverse teams within AECOM's operational framework. The portfolio is your primary tool to substantiate your claims.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the SmartRecruiters platform.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your CV to highlight your 10+ years of experience in civil engineering design and project management, specifically mentioning any data center or large infrastructure project experience. Use keywords from the job description such as "Design Management," "Civil Engineering," "Project Management," "Team Leadership," and "Risk Management."
• Portfolio Preparation: Compile a professional portfolio showcasing 3-4 key civil engineering design projects. Ensure each project clearly details your role, the design process, challenges overcome, team coordination, and quantifiable results. Prepare a concise presentation of one or two of these projects for potential interview stages.
• Company Research: Thoroughly research AECOM's recent projects, especially in the data center and infrastructure sectors, and understand their company values and mission. Prepare to discuss how your experience aligns with AECOM's strategic objectives and culture.
• Interview Practice: Practice answering common interview questions related to design management, civil engineering challenges, team leadership, and stakeholder engagement. Prepare specific examples using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to illustrate your skills and experience.

⚠️ 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.

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