Design Manager Ingeniería Civil - Data Centers

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager Ingeniería Civil - Data Centers Company: AECOM Location: Madrid, Spain Job Type: Full-time (A jornada completa) Category: Engineering / Design Management / Infrastructure Operations Date Posted: February 19, 2026 Experience Level: 10+ years Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and supervise the end-to-end design process for complex Civil Engineering projects within the rapidly growing Data Centers sector.
• Manage and motivate multidisciplinary design teams to deliver integrated, high-quality project outcomes.
• Ensure technical excellence, adherence to budget, and alignment with client specifications across all design phases.
• Drive innovation and promote best practices in civil engineering design and project execution.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to foster strong relationships and deliver successful projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within AECOM's Transportation business group, specifically focusing on the Data Centers sector. The "Design Manager" title implies a strong emphasis on the technical oversight of the design process, rather than pure project management, with a responsibility for the quality and integrity of the engineering deliverables. The term "Ingeniería Civil" and "Ingeniero/a Civil o de Caminos" strongly indicate a need for a professional engineer with a background in civil or transportation infrastructure. The "Data Centers" specialization highlights a need for experience or a strong aptitude for this specific, high-demand sector.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor multidisciplinary design teams throughout all project phases, ensuring cohesive and efficient collaboration.
• Oversee and manage the entire design lifecycle, from initial feasibility studies and conceptual design to basic design and detailed construction project plans.
• Guarantee the technical quality, accuracy, and consistency of design documents, specifications, and budgets.
• Effectively manage project scope and work programs, proactively identifying and mitigating potential risks to design delivery.
• Establish and nurture robust, trust-based relationships with internal AECOM teams, external collaborators, and clients.
• Champion the adoption of industry best practices, innovative design solutions, and continuous improvement methodologies within the design process.
• Coordinate with other AECOM teams and external partners to ensure integrated project delivery.
• Ensure all design deliverables meet the required standards and are completed within established timelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly delineate a leadership role focused on the technical aspects of design. Managing "scope and program of work" alongside "identifying and mitigating risks" points to a sophisticated understanding of project lifecycle management within an engineering context. The emphasis on "technical quality, precision, and coherence" is core to a Design Manager's function, ensuring that the engineering outputs meet rigorous standards.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Higher education degree in Civil Engineering, Civil Engineering and Construction (ICCP), or an equivalent qualification. Experience: Minimum of 10 years of experience in managing and supervising design for diverse civil infrastructure projects. Experience in data center projects is a significant plus. Positive experience with national and international projects will be highly valued.

Required Skills:

• Proven leadership and team management capabilities for multidisciplinary engineering teams.
• Comprehensive understanding of all design phases: feasibility studies, conceptual design, basic design, and construction project design.
• Strong technical knowledge of civil engineering principles and their application in infrastructure projects.
• Expertise in quality assurance for technical designs, ensuring accuracy and coherence.
• Proficiency in managing project scope, budgets, and specifications effectively.
• Demonstrated ability in schedule management and risk mitigation strategies.
• Excellent client relationship management and stakeholder communication skills.
• Fluency in both English and Spanish (oral and written) is mandatory.
• Strong organizational and time management abilities.

Preferred Skills:

• Specific experience in the design and management of data center infrastructure projects.
• Experience working on international civil engineering projects.
• Familiarity with relevant design software and project management tools common in the civil engineering and data center sectors.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for 10+ years of experience indicates a senior role. The mandatory fluency in both English and Spanish is crucial for managing international projects and diverse teams within AECOM's global structure. The emphasis on both technical knowledge and management skills (scope, budget, schedule, risk) is characteristic of a senior design leadership position.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a history of successfully leading complex civil engineering design projects from inception to completion.
• Present case studies demonstrating effective management of multidisciplinary design teams and cross-functional coordination.
• Include examples of how technical quality, budget adherence, and schedule management were ensured in previous roles.
• Provide evidence of experience in managing project scope, identifying risks, and implementing mitigation strategies.
• Highlight successful client relationship management and stakeholder engagement in project delivery.

Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate understanding of design process workflows, from feasibility and conceptualization through to detailed construction documentation.
• Illustrate experience in implementing and promoting best practices and innovation within engineering design processes.
• Show examples of how technical specifications and quality standards were developed and maintained.
• Present evidence of methods used for risk identification and mitigation within design projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated as a formal portfolio requirement, a candidate at this level is expected to demonstrate their capabilities through their resume and potentially during interviews with examples of past projects and their role in them. The emphasis on "best practices and innovation" suggests a need for candidates who can articulate and implement advanced design methodologies.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for a Design Manager with 10+ years of experience in Civil Engineering and Project Management in Madrid, Spain, the estimated salary range is €65,000 - €90,000 annually. This range can vary based on the candidate's specific experience, expertise in data centers, and negotiation.

Benefits:

• Professional development plans tailored to career growth within AECOM.
• Continuous training opportunities to enhance technical and leadership skills.
• Access to certifications and specialization programs to deepen expertise.
• Flexible schedule options to support work-life balance.
• Hybrid work model offering flexibility between office and remote work.
• Competitive compensation package reflecting experience and responsibilities.
• Comprehensive social benefits, including health and potentially other welfare programs.
• Opportunities for internal growth and advancement within a global organization.

Working Hours: The role is full-time, with an estimated 40 hours per week. The company offers "real flexibility" and a "flexible schedule," indicating a modern approach to working hours within the hybrid model.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on typical compensation for senior engineering management roles in Madrid, Spain, considering the specified experience level and industry. AECOM is a large, global firm, suggesting a robust benefits package is likely. The mention of "hybrid model" and "flexible schedule" aligns with current industry standards for attracting and retaining talent.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Infrastructure Consulting and Design; specifically within the Transportation sector, with a focus on Data Centers. AECOM is a global leader in providing professional services for infrastructure projects. Company Size: AECOM is a Fortune 500 company with approximately 50,000 employees globally, indicating a large, established, and well-resourced organization. Founded: While the exact founding date isn't in the provided text, AECOM has a long history and is a recognized leader in its field. The description emphasizes a commitment to "delivering a better world" and "sustainable legacies."

Team Structure:

• The role sits within the Transportation business line, specifically within the Data Centers team, which is experiencing rapid growth.
• The Design Manager will lead multidisciplinary design teams, implying a collaborative structure where various engineering disciplines (structural, mechanical, electrical, civil) work together.
• The role involves coordination with other AECOM teams and external collaborators, suggesting a matrixed organization where project teams are formed for specific initiatives.
• Reporting will likely be to a senior project director or a regional/business unit lead within the Data Centers or Transportation division.

Methodology:

• AECOM emphasizes a purpose-driven approach, focusing on delivering positive and tangible impacts through their projects.
• The company culture promotes equity, diversity, and inclusion, aiming for a safe and respectful workplace.
• They foster a collaborative and innovative environment, encouraging employees to bring their unique talents and experiences.
• The company values integrity, an entrepreneurial spirit, and a pioneering mindset.
• A commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) priorities is highlighted.

Company Website: aecom.com

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's size and global presence suggest a structured yet dynamic work environment. The focus on Data Centers indicates a specialization within a high-growth, technologically advanced sector. The company's stated values of diversity, inclusion, and sustainability are key cultural indicators for potential employees.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is a senior-level Design Manager position, requiring significant experience (10+ years) and leadership responsibilities. It represents a key technical leadership role within the Data Centers engineering practice. Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will lead multidisciplinary design teams and likely report to a senior project executive or director responsible for the overall portfolio of Data Center projects within AECOM Spain. Collaboration with other AECOM business lines and external partners is also a key aspect of the reporting and communication structure. Operations Impact: The Design Manager's primary impact is on the successful technical execution and delivery of civil engineering designs for critical data center infrastructure. This directly influences project timelines, budgets, technical performance, client satisfaction, and ultimately, AECOM's reputation and profitability in the high-demand data center market. Their work ensures the foundational infrastructure is sound, reliable, and meets the demanding specifications of the technology sector.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in data center civil engineering design and project management, becoming a recognized specialist in a high-growth sector.
• Leadership: Progress to more senior project management roles, overseeing larger and more complex data center projects or portfolios, potentially with international scope.
• Mentorship: Develop leadership skills by mentoring junior engineers and design teams, contributing to the development of future talent within AECOM.
• Cross-functional Roles: Transition into roles with broader responsibilities, such as technical director, business development, or program management across AECOM's infrastructure offerings.
• Continuous Learning: Leverage AECOM's commitment to training and certifications to stay at the forefront of civil engineering and data center technology advancements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear path for career advancement within a major global infrastructure firm, particularly within the booming data center sector. The emphasis on continuous learning and specialization is a strong draw for ambitious operations and engineering professionals.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: AECOM offers a hybrid work model. This typically means a combination of working from a designated AECOM office location and working remotely (e.g., from home). The specific office in Madrid is located at C/Alfonso XII. Office Location(s): The primary location is Madrid, Spain, specifically at C/Alfonso XII. AECOM also has a global presence, suggesting potential for interaction with international offices.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The hybrid model and emphasis on leading multidisciplinary teams suggest a work environment that balances focused individual work with collaborative team sessions, both in-person and virtually.
• Operations Tools & Technology: While not explicitly detailed, a Design Manager in this field would typically have access to and utilize advanced design software (CAD, BIM), project management platforms, and communication tools. AECOM, as a Fortune 500 company, likely invests in state-of-the-art technology.
• Team Interaction: Opportunities for team interaction will occur during scheduled office days, project meetings, and through digital collaboration platforms, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.

Work Schedule: The role is full-time, offering "real flexibility" and a "flexible schedule" within the hybrid work arrangement. This allows for managing personal commitments while ensuring project deliverables are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role is a significant factor, offering flexibility that is highly valued by professionals. The specific office location in Madrid provides a tangible base for the role. The context implies a professional, technologically equipped, and collaborative workspace.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely involves a review of the CV and a brief call to assess basic qualifications, experience, and language proficiency.
• Technical Interview: Focuses on civil engineering expertise, design management experience, specific knowledge of data center infrastructure, and problem-solving skills. Candidates may be asked to discuss their approach to managing complex design challenges.
• Managerial/Team Interview: Assesses leadership style, team motivation strategies, stakeholder management, and cultural fit within AECOM's collaborative environment.
• Case Study/Presentation (Potential): Candidates might be asked to present a past project demonstrating their design management capabilities, technical solutions, and impact on project outcomes.
• Final Interview: Could be with senior leadership to discuss overall fit, career aspirations, and final offer details.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Data Center Experience: If you have specific data center project experience, ensure it is prominently featured with details on your role, responsibilities, and achievements.
• Showcase Leadership in Design: Provide examples where you led multidisciplinary teams through complex design phases, emphasizing your contribution to technical quality and successful outcomes.
• Quantify Achievements: Wherever possible, use numbers and data to illustrate your impact (e.g., projects delivered on time/budget, cost savings achieved through design optimization, risk mitigation successes).
• Demonstrate Problem-Solving: Select case studies that highlight significant design challenges you faced and how you effectively resolved them.
• Technical Proficiency: Be prepared to discuss specific civil engineering principles, design software, and industry standards relevant to data centers.
• Client & Stakeholder Management: Include examples of how you built and maintained strong relationships with clients and other stakeholders.

Challenge Preparation:

• Technical Scenarios: Prepare for hypothetical scenarios related to common civil engineering challenges in data center design (e.g., site constraints, environmental considerations, structural integrity under load, utility integration).
• Management Scenarios: Be ready to discuss how you would handle team conflicts, manage scope creep, deal with challenging clients, or mitigate project risks.
• Situational Questions: Practice answering questions using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to articulate your experience effectively.
• Company Research: Understand AECOM's mission, values, recent projects (especially in data centers), and their approach to sustainability and innovation.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the senior nature of the role and the emphasis on technical leadership, interviewers will likely probe deeply into past project experience and problem-solving capabilities. A well-structured portfolio, even if presented verbally or through CV examples, is crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD/BIM Software: Proficiency in industry-standard Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Building Information Modeling (BIM) software is essential for civil engineering design. Examples include AutoCAD, Civil 3D, Revit, Navisworks.
• Project Management Software: Tools for planning, scheduling, and tracking project progress. Examples might include Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or AECOM's internal project management systems.
• Collaboration Platforms: Tools for team communication and document sharing, such as Microsoft Teams, Slack, or other enterprise solutions.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: While not a primary focus for a Design Manager, understanding how to interpret data from design simulations, feasibility studies, and project performance metrics is important. This might involve Excel, specialized engineering analysis software, or BI tools if involved in reporting.
• Reporting Tools: Ability to generate clear and concise reports on design progress, technical findings, budget status, and risk assessments.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: While AECOM's internal CRM would be used for client relationship management, direct experience might not be a primary requirement unless specifically involved in business development.
• Automation Tools: Understanding how automation can be applied in design workflows (e.g., through scripting in CAD/BIM, or process automation in project management) would be a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role, the emphasis will be on sophisticated CAD/BIM and project management tools. The ability to leverage these tools for efficient design and coordination is key.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Technical Excellence: A commitment to high-quality, accurate, and innovative civil engineering design.
• Collaboration: Working effectively within multidisciplinary teams and across different AECOM business units and with external partners.
• Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding high ethical standards and delivering on commitments to clients and colleagues.
• Innovation & Best Practices: Continuously seeking to improve design processes and adopt leading-edge technologies and methodologies.
• Sustainability & ESG: Incorporating environmental, social, and governance considerations into design decisions, aligning with AECOM's global priorities.
• Client Focus: Prioritizing client needs and building strong, trust-based relationships to ensure project success and satisfaction.

Collaboration Style:

• Multidisciplinary Integration: Actively fostering collaboration between civil engineers and other disciplines (structural, mechanical, electrical, etc.) to ensure integrated and cohesive design solutions.
• Proactive Communication: Maintaining open and transparent communication channels with team members, clients, and stakeholders to manage expectations and resolve issues promptly.
• Feedback Culture: Encouraging constructive feedback within the design team to drive continuous improvement and learning.
• Shared Goal Orientation: Aligning team efforts towards common project objectives and AECOM's overall mission of delivering impactful infrastructure.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's strong emphasis on ESG, diversity, and inclusion suggests a culture that values responsible business practices and a respectful, equitable work environment. The "pioneering mindset" and "entrepreneurial spirit" encourage proactive problem-solving and innovation.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Rapidly Evolving Data Center Sector: Keeping pace with the fast-changing technological demands and scale of modern data centers, which requires continuous learning and adaptation of civil engineering solutions.
• Managing Global Projects: Coordinating design efforts across different geographical locations, time zones, and regulatory environments if international projects are assigned.
• Balancing Technical Rigor with Project Constraints: Ensuring design quality and innovation while adhering to strict budgets, tight schedules, and specific client requirements.
• Integrating Diverse Disciplines: Effectively managing the coordination and integration of civil engineering designs with other critical disciplines (MEP, structural, IT infrastructure) to achieve a seamless project outcome.
• Adopting New Technologies: Embracing and implementing new design tools, methodologies (like advanced BIM or digital twins), and sustainable construction practices.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Data Center Specialization: Gaining in-depth knowledge and practical experience in the unique challenges and requirements of civil engineering for data centers.
• Leadership Development: Enhancing skills in leading, motivating, and managing high-performing multidisciplinary teams.
• Global Project Exposure: Working on national and international projects, broadening understanding of diverse markets and client needs.
• Sustainability & ESG Training: Developing expertise in designing sustainable infrastructure solutions that meet increasingly stringent environmental regulations and corporate goals.
• Access to AECOM's Global Network: Leveraging the expertise and resources of a large, international firm for knowledge sharing and professional development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The data center industry presents unique and dynamic challenges. The role offers significant opportunities for professional growth by tackling these challenges and developing specialized expertise.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Management Approach: "Describe your philosophy and methodology for leading the design phase of a complex civil engineering project, particularly for a data center." Be prepared to discuss your approach to team leadership, quality control, risk management, and stakeholder engagement.
• Technical Problem-Solving: "Walk me through a challenging civil engineering design problem you encountered on a past project and how you resolved it. What was the outcome?" Focus on your analytical process, technical solutions, and the impact of your intervention.
• Data Center Specifics: "What are the key civil engineering considerations unique to data center design that differ from other infrastructure projects?" Demonstrate your understanding of site selection, foundation design, utility access, thermal management considerations, and security requirements.
• Collaboration & Communication: "How do you ensure effective collaboration between civil engineering and other disciplines (e.g., MEP, structural) on a project? Provide an example." Highlight your communication strategies and methods for fostering interdisciplinary synergy.

Company & Culture Questions:

• AECOM Values: "How do your personal values and professional approach align with AECOM's commitment to sustainability, innovation, and diversity?" Research AECOM's ESG reports and values statement.
• Hybrid Work: "How do you envision contributing to team cohesion and productivity in a hybrid work environment?" Discuss your strategies for effective remote and in-office collaboration.
• Industry Trends: "What do you see as the most significant trends impacting civil engineering design for data centers, and how do you stay current?" Show your awareness of industry advancements.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project example, clearly define the Situation, your Task, the Actions you took as Design Manager, and the Results achieved (quantify where possible).
• Focus on Impact: Emphasize the value you brought as a Design Manager – how your leadership, technical decisions, or risk mitigation strategies contributed to project success, budget adherence, or quality improvements.
• Showcase Technical Depth: Be ready to discuss the technical aspects of your projects, demonstrating a strong grasp of civil engineering principles and their application to data center infrastructure.
• Highlight Leadership & Collaboration: Demonstrate your ability to lead diverse teams and collaborate effectively with various stakeholders, clients, and other engineering disciplines.
• Prepare for Q&A: Anticipate detailed questions about your project examples and be ready to elaborate on your decision-making processes and challenges encountered.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely be rigorous, assessing not only technical competence but also leadership, communication, and strategic thinking. Preparing specific examples using the STAR method will be crucial for demonstrating your capabilities.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the SmartRecruiters platform.
• Tailor Your CV: Ensure your resume clearly highlights your 10+ years of experience in civil engineering design management, with a strong emphasis on project leadership, technical quality assurance, and any relevant data center project experience.
• Prepare Your Portfolio Examples: Be ready to discuss specific projects that demonstrate your ability to lead multidisciplinary design teams, manage scope and budget, mitigate risks, and ensure technical excellence, particularly in infrastructure or data center contexts.
• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare answers to common interview questions focusing on your design management philosophy, technical problem-solving skills, collaborative approach, and understanding of the data center industry.
• Research AECOM: Familiarize yourself with AECOM's mission, values, recent projects, and their commitment to sustainability and innovation to effectively articulate your cultural fit.

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