Design Manager – Rail Transit Signaling Program at AECOM

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager – Rail Transit Signaling Program Company: AECOM Location: Atlanta, Georgia, United States Job Type: Full-time Category: Engineering Management / Operations Management (Infrastructure) Date Posted: August 5, 2025 Experience Level: 10+ Years Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

Lead comprehensive design coordination for a major Communications-Based Train Control (CBTC) modernization program, ensuring seamless integration of wayside signaling, trainborne equipment, and supporting systems.
Drive design compliance with contract requirements, industry standards (e.g., IEEE, AREMA, CENELEC, IEC), and client technical specifications across all project phases.
Manage critical technical interfaces between new CBTC systems and existing legacy infrastructure, including power, operations centers, and vehicles, to ensure constructibility and operational continuity.
Oversee robust document control and quality assurance processes, leveraging PMIS platforms like InEight and SharePoint for version control and traceability.
Provide strategic leadership and mentorship to a multidisciplinary engineering team and subconsultants, fostering a collaborative environment for efficient problem-solving and knowledge sharing.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the input data doesn't explicitly state "Revenue Operations" or "Sales Operations," this role functions within a large-scale infrastructure program, requiring meticulous operational planning, resource management, and stakeholder coordination. The "Design Manager" title in this context implies a focus on the operational execution of the design phase, akin to a project operations lead within a highly technical engineering environment. The role demands strong process adherence, risk management, and quality assurance, which are core tenets of operations management.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

Spearhead all design-related activities for CBTC systems, encompassing wayside signaling, trainborne equipment, interlockings, and critical supporting infrastructure such as communications and SCADA systems.
Meticulously coordinate technical interfaces between newly implemented systems and existing legacy infrastructure, including power supply networks, operations control centers, rolling stock, and other command and control systems.
Ensure all design deliverables adhere strictly to contract specifications, relevant codes, and national/international engineering standards, such as IEEE, AREMA, CENELEC, and IEC, maintaining a high bar for quality and safety.
Implement and manage a structured design review and assurance process, utilizing critical tools like Interface Control Documents (ICDs), compliance matrices, and detailed design checklists to validate adherence to requirements.
Oversee and optimize document control workflows within Project Management Information Systems (PMIS) such as InEight or SharePoint, ensuring accurate version control, complete traceability, and timely submission of all design documentation.
Foster strong collaborative relationships with the primary system supplier, design subconsultants, and the construction team to guarantee integrated, constructible, and efficient design packages are produced.
Actively participate in critical interface working groups, facilitating prompt and effective resolution of design-related issues and mitigating potential downstream impacts.
Deliver regular, accurate progress updates, conduct thorough design risk assessments, and report on coordination metrics to the broader project management team, proactively identifying and addressing potential challenges.
Identify potential design risks at the earliest stages of the project lifecycle and proactively implement robust mitigation strategies to minimize impact.
Supervise, guide, and mentor junior engineers and Design-Build-Engineer (DBE) subconsultants assigned to the design function, promoting professional development and technical expertise.
Cultivate an inclusive teaming environment and encourage proactive knowledge sharing across the entire program team to enhance collective understanding and problem-solving capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong focus on process management, quality assurance, and cross-functional coordination within a complex engineering program. The emphasis on "design compliance," "interface control," and "document control workflows" directly maps to operational excellence in project execution. This role requires a manager who can operationalize the design process, ensuring efficiency and adherence to standards.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, Civil Engineering, Transportation Engineering, or a closely related technical discipline.

Experience:

A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in engineering design, with a significant portion dedicated to rail transit signaling or Communications-Based Train Control (CBTC) projects. Demonstrated equivalent experience and/or education will be considered.
Proven track record of successfully leading and coordinating complex, multidisciplinary design efforts in large-scale infrastructure or transit projects.
In-depth understanding of CBTC system design principles, architecture, and the intricacies of systems integration within a transit environment.
Proficiency in essential industry software tools, including but not limited to AutoCAD for technical drawings, Bluebeam for document review and markup, Primavera P6 for project scheduling and resource management, and various document control platforms for workflow management.

Required Skills:

Design Management: Ability to plan, execute, and control design processes for complex engineering projects.
Rail Transit Signaling: Deep knowledge of signaling principles, technologies, and operational requirements in rail environments.
CBTC Systems: Expertise in Communications-Based Train Control systems, including their components, integration, and operational nuances.
Systems Integration: Proficient in coordinating and integrating various technical systems to function cohesively.
Document Control: Experience managing and maintaining project documentation using PMIS platforms, ensuring accuracy and accessibility.
Quality Assurance: Implementing and overseeing quality control measures to ensure design compliance and technical excellence.
Stakeholder Coordination: Effectively collaborating with internal teams, external vendors, clients, and subconsultants to achieve project objectives.
Risk Management: Identifying, assessing, and mitigating design-related risks throughout the project lifecycle.
Team Leadership: Guiding and motivating engineering teams to achieve project goals and maintain high performance standards.
Mentorship: Developing and guiding junior engineers, fostering skill development and career growth.
Electrical Engineering: Strong foundational knowledge in electrical principles relevant to signaling and control systems.
Civil/Transportation Engineering: Understanding of civil and transportation infrastructure aspects relevant to transit systems.
AutoCAD: Proficiency in using AutoCAD for creating and reviewing technical drawings and schematics.
Primavera P6: Experience with Primavera P6 for project planning, scheduling, and resource allocation.
SCADA Systems: Familiarity with Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition systems, particularly within industrial or transit contexts.

Preferred Skills:

Professional Engineer (PE) License: Possession of a PE license or the ability to obtain one within six months of hire.
Brownfield Transit Experience: Experience managing systems integration and design modifications within existing, operational transit systems.
Design Assurance Frameworks: Familiarity with design assurance requirements from regulatory bodies like the FTA or quality management standards such as ISO 9001.
DBE/Small Business Collaboration: Experience working effectively with Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs) and small business partners on design projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of technical engineering expertise in rail and signaling systems with strong project management and coordination skills. The preference for a PE license and experience with design assurance frameworks indicates a need for robust operational governance and adherence to industry best practices.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

Demonstrate a structured approach to managing complex design processes, highlighting phases, key deliverables, and control mechanisms.
Showcase examples of successful systems integration, particularly in coordinating diverse technical components and ensuring seamless interoperability.
Present evidence of implementing rigorous quality assurance and compliance checks, with clear documentation of how standards were met and validated.
Provide case studies of managing design risks, illustrating proactive identification, assessment, and mitigation strategies employed to ensure project continuity.
Include examples of effective document control and information management, showcasing proficiency with PMIS platforms and best practices for version control and traceability.

Process Documentation:

Detailed documentation of design workflow methodologies, including planning, execution, review, and approval cycles for complex signaling systems.
Evidence of creating and managing Interface Control Documents (ICDs) and compliance matrices to ensure alignment between different system components and stakeholders.
Examples of implementing robust quality assurance plans and design review processes, including checklists and sign-off procedures.
Documentation showcasing experience with document control platforms and best practices for maintaining version control, audit trails, and accessibility of project information.
Demonstrate experience in managing design submittals, reviews, and approvals in a timely manner, adhering to project schedules and requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role, a portfolio should highlight not just technical design outputs but also the processes used to manage and deliver those designs efficiently and compliantly. This includes demonstrating how they operationalize design management, quality control, and risk mitigation within a project framework.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Given the specialized nature of the role, the extensive experience required (10+ years), and the significant project scope, a competitive salary is expected. Based on industry benchmarks for Senior Design Managers in major metropolitan areas like Atlanta, with expertise in complex infrastructure projects, the estimated salary range would be between $130,000 and $170,000 annually. This range can vary based on the candidate's specific qualifications, certifications, and the final contract terms.

Benefits:

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
Life insurance and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) coverage.
Disability benefits (short-term and long-term).
Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) and various leaves of absence options.
Voluntary benefits and additional perks designed to enhance employee well-being.
Access to well-being resources and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
Business travel insurance for any required travel.
Service recognition awards to acknowledge employee contributions.
Retirement savings plan, likely a 401(k) with potential company match.
Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) for eligible employees.
Flexible work options may be available, though the role is primarily on-site.

Working Hours:

The standard working hours are expected to be around 40 hours per week, typical for a full-time professional role. However, given the demanding nature of large-scale infrastructure programs and the need for timely design delivery, occasional extended hours or weekend work may be required to meet project milestones and deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on data for similarly experienced engineering and project management roles in Atlanta, GA, within the infrastructure and transportation sectors. AECOM, as a major global firm, typically offers a robust benefits package, as detailed in the input.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry:

AECOM operates within the Infrastructure Consulting and Engineering industry, a sector critical to global economic development and societal well-being. They are a Fortune 500 company renowned for their vast expertise in transportation, buildings, environment, water, and energy. This specific role is within their dynamic transportation division, focused on transit systems. The industry demands precision, adherence to stringent regulations, and a forward-thinking approach to sustainable and resilient infrastructure.

Company Size:

AECOM is a global powerhouse with over 50,000 employees worldwide. This scale provides employees with access to a vast network of expertise, diverse project opportunities, and potential for international career development. For operations professionals, this means exposure to sophisticated project management systems, global best practices, and the resources to tackle highly complex challenges.

Founded:

AECOM's history traces back to 1910, signifying a long-standing legacy of engineering excellence and innovation. This deep heritage translates into a culture that values experience, stability, and enduring client relationships. For operations roles, it suggests a company with well-established processes and a commitment to long-term project success.

Team Structure:

The Design Manager will likely be part of a larger program management team overseeing the CBTC modernization. This team would include program directors, project managers, engineering leads for various disciplines (e.g., systems, civil, electrical, mechanical), construction managers, and support staff. The Design Manager's role is central to coordinating the efforts of the design disciplines and ensuring their integration with the construction and systems integration teams.
Reporting Structure: The Design Manager typically reports to a Program Director or a Senior Project Manager overseeing the technical aspects of the program. They, in turn, will manage a team of design engineers, drafters, and potentially subconsultant design leads.
Cross-functional Collaboration: Collaboration is paramount. The Design Manager will work closely with the Systems Integration Manager, Construction Manager, procurement specialists, client representatives, and the main CBTC system supplier. Effective communication and coordination across these functions are critical for program success.

Methodology:

Data Analysis and Insights: AECOM likely employs rigorous data analysis for project planning, progress tracking, and risk assessment. This includes analyzing design progress against schedules, tracking design-related issues, and using performance metrics to inform decision-making.
Workflow Planning and Optimization: The role demands a systematic approach to planning and optimizing design workflows, ensuring efficiency, quality, and compliance. This involves setting clear stage gates, defining review processes, and managing RFI (Request for Information) and submittal cycles.
Automation and Efficiency Practices: While not explicitly stated for this role, large organizations like AECOM often leverage automation for repetitive tasks in document management, scheduling, and reporting. The Design Manager would be expected to utilize and potentially advocate for tools and practices that enhance efficiency.

Company Website:

https://www.aecom.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's established presence and global scale suggest a structured, process-driven environment. For an operations-focused role like Design Manager, this means opportunities to work within sophisticated project management frameworks and contribute to the operational efficiency of large-scale, impactful projects.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level:

This role represents a mid-to-senior level position within the operations and engineering management spectrum. It requires a blend of technical engineering acumen in rail signaling and CBTC systems, coupled with strong project management and leadership capabilities. The Design Manager is responsible for the operational execution of the design phase, ensuring that the design output is aligned with project objectives, timelines, and quality standards. This involves managing resources, processes, and stakeholder expectations effectively.

Reporting Structure:

The Design Manager typically reports to a senior project leadership role, such as a Program Director or a Senior Project Manager responsible for the overall technical delivery of the CBTC program. They will have direct reports, including junior design engineers, drafters, and potentially leads from subconsultant design teams. This structure places them in a key coordinating role, bridging technical design execution with broader program management.

Operations Impact:

The Design Manager's role has a profound impact on the operational success of the CBTC modernization program. By ensuring the design is integrated, compliant, and constructible, they directly influence project cost, schedule, and ultimate performance. A well-managed design process minimizes costly changes during construction, reduces operational risks, and ensures the final signaling system meets its intended performance specifications, thereby enhancing the efficiency and reliability of the entire rail transit system.

Growth Opportunities:

Operations Skill Advancement: Progression from Design Manager can lead to higher-level roles such as Senior Design Manager, Lead Systems Engineer, or Program Engineering Manager, with increased responsibility for broader technical domains or entire programs.
Leadership Development: Opportunities exist to lead larger, more complex design teams, manage multiple design packages concurrently, or transition into full program management roles where operational oversight extends beyond design to construction and commissioning.
Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas of CBTC technology, signaling systems, or project controls, becoming a subject matter expert within AECOM's transportation practice.
Industry Certifications & Training: AECOM often supports employees in obtaining relevant certifications (e.g., PMP, LEED, specific engineering licenses) and provides access to advanced technical training and industry conferences, facilitating continuous learning and professional development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path for a Design Manager in a large firm like AECOM is typically towards greater leadership responsibility, broader project scope, or deeper technical specialization within the operations and engineering management domain.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type:

The role is based in a project office in Atlanta, GA, which is common for large infrastructure projects. This office environment is likely to be a collaborative hub where project teams, including design, construction, and program management personnel, work together. It will be equipped with the necessary tools and technology to support project delivery.

Office Location(s):

The primary work location is specified as Atlanta, GA. Occasional travel may be required to coordinate with vendors, partner offices, or potentially visit project sites for specific technical reviews or coordination meetings.

Workspace Context:

Collaborative Environment: The project office setting fosters a highly collaborative atmosphere. The Design Manager will be part of a multidisciplinary team, requiring frequent interaction with engineers from various disciplines, project managers, and potentially client representatives. This close proximity facilitates rapid communication and problem-solving.
Operations Tools and Technology: Expect access to robust project management information systems (PMIS), design software (AutoCAD, Bluebeam), scheduling tools (Primavera P6), and communication platforms. Proficiency and effective utilization of these tools are critical for operational efficiency.
Team Interaction: Regular team meetings, design review sessions, and coordination workshops will be key aspects of the daily work. The Design Manager plays a central role in facilitating these interactions to ensure smooth design progression and issue resolution.

Work Schedule:

The standard work schedule is typically 9-to-5, Monday through Friday. However, the nature of large-scale, time-sensitive infrastructure projects means that flexibility and willingness to work extended hours or occasional weekends may be necessary to meet critical deadlines, manage urgent issues, or support project milestones.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement in Atlanta, GA, emphasizes the need for a collaborative, in-person work environment typical for complex project management roles where constant communication and coordination are key to operational success.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

Initial Screening: A recruiter or HR representative will likely conduct an initial screening to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.
Hiring Manager Interview: A more in-depth interview with the hiring manager (likely a Program Director or Senior Project Manager) to evaluate technical expertise, leadership style, and alignment with program needs. Expect questions focused on CBTC systems, design management methodologies, and problem-solving approaches.
Technical/Team Interview: This stage may involve interviews with other engineering leads or team members. It could include technical challenges or case studies related to systems integration, design coordination, or risk management. Candidates may be asked to walk through specific examples from their portfolio.
Portfolio Presentation: Candidates will likely be asked to present a selection of their work, focusing on projects that demonstrate their design management capabilities, process optimization skills, and successful handling of complex technical challenges.
Final Interview/Offer: A final interview with senior leadership may occur before an offer is extended. This stage often focuses on strategic alignment and long-term career potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

Process-Centric Examples: Select case studies that clearly illustrate your process for managing design projects. Detail the methodologies used, the tools implemented (e.g., ICDs, compliance matrices), and the steps taken to ensure quality and adherence to standards.
Quantifiable Results: Whenever possible, quantify the impact of your work. For instance, highlight how your design management approach reduced rework by X%, improved schedule adherence by Y%, or successfully integrated Z number of complex systems.
Demonstrate Leadership & Collaboration: Showcase instances where you effectively led multidisciplinary teams, resolved conflicts, and collaborated with diverse stakeholders (e.g., system suppliers, construction teams, clients).
Problem-Solving Scenarios: Include examples of complex technical or operational challenges encountered and how you systematically approached and resolved them.
Organized and Concise Presentation: Prepare a clear, concise presentation that highlights the most relevant aspects of your experience. Be ready to articulate the "what," "how," and "why" behind your contributions. Ensure easy navigation and clear visual aids.

Challenge Preparation:

Systems Integration Challenge: Be prepared for a scenario-based question or a mini-case study requiring you to outline how you would approach integrating a new component into an existing signaling system, considering interfaces, risks, and compliance.
Design Review Process: Understand and be ready to articulate the steps involved in a thorough design review process, including identifying potential issues, documenting feedback, and tracking resolutions.
Stakeholder Management: Practice responding to questions about how you manage communication and expectations with diverse stakeholders, particularly when design issues arise or changes are needed. Focus on clear, proactive communication strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a role like this will heavily scrutinize not just technical knowledge but also the candidate's ability to operationalize complex engineering processes and lead teams effectively. A strong, process-oriented portfolio is crucial for demonstrating these capabilities.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

AutoCAD: Essential for reviewing and understanding technical drawings, schematics, and layouts related to signaling systems. Proficiency in navigating and interpreting CAD files is critical.
Bluebeam Revu: A widely used tool for PDF editing, markup, and collaboration, crucial for design reviews, redlining, and tracking comments on design documents.
Primavera P6: A robust project management software used for detailed scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking. Experience in understanding and managing schedules generated by P6 is vital for design management.
PMIS Platforms (e.g., InEight, SharePoint): These platforms are central to document control, workflow management, and collaboration. Experience with their functionalities for version control, submittal management, and RFI tracking is expected.

Analytics & Reporting:

Microsoft Excel: Fundamental for data analysis, creating compliance matrices, tracking metrics, and generating reports. Advanced Excel skills are often a requirement.
Power BI / Tableau (or similar): While not explicitly listed, experience with business intelligence tools for creating dashboards and visualizing project progress, risks, and key performance indicators (KPIs) would be highly beneficial for reporting to stakeholders.
Project Management Software Reporting Features: Utilizing the built-in reporting and analytics capabilities of tools like Primavera P6 for schedule performance analysis and issue tracking.

CRM & Automation:

Document Management Systems: Beyond general PMIS, specific expertise in document archiving, retrieval, and workflow automation within a project context is important.
Collaboration Tools: Platforms like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for real-time communication, file sharing, and team coordination.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack emphasizes tools for design visualization, document management, project scheduling, and data analysis, all critical components of operationalizing the design process effectively.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

Safety First: A paramount value in infrastructure, ensuring all design decisions prioritize the safety of passengers, staff, and the public. This translates into rigorous adherence to safety standards and protocols.
Integrity & Ethics: Upholding the highest standards of professional conduct, honesty, and transparency in all dealings with clients, colleagues, and stakeholders.
Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering an environment where diverse teams work together seamlessly, sharing knowledge and supporting each other to achieve common project goals.
Innovation & Excellence: Encouraging creative problem-solving and striving for continuous improvement in design, processes, and project delivery to achieve exceptional outcomes.
Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and meeting client needs, delivering high-quality solutions that provide long-term value and contribute to successful project outcomes.

Collaboration Style:

Cross-functional Integration: The team culture emphasizes close collaboration between design disciplines, construction management, systems engineering, and other support functions. Regular meetings and integrated workflows are used to ensure all aspects of the project are aligned.
Process Review & Feedback: An open culture for reviewing design processes, providing constructive feedback, and implementing improvements to enhance efficiency and quality.
Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise across the team to build collective intelligence and foster professional growth. This might involve internal workshops, lunch-and-learns, or using shared knowledge platforms.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's culture, as a global leader, likely emphasizes professionalism, technical excellence, and a strong commitment to project success through collaborative efforts and adherence to core values.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

Complex System Integration: Managing the intricate interfaces between new CBTC systems and aging legacy infrastructure presents a significant technical and operational challenge. This requires meticulous planning, thorough testing, and proactive risk management.
Brownfield Environment: Designing and implementing upgrades within an operational transit system (brownfield) introduces complexities related to minimizing disruption to existing services, working within confined spaces, and coordinating with ongoing operations.
Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring all design elements meet stringent national and international standards, as well as specific client and regulatory body requirements (e.g., FTA), demands constant vigilance and robust quality assurance processes.
Stakeholder Management: Balancing the needs and expectations of multiple stakeholders, including the client, system supplier, construction contractors, and internal teams, can be challenging and requires strong communication and negotiation skills.
Managing Design Deliverables under Pressure: The need to deliver high-quality, compliant design packages within tight project schedules requires efficient workflow management and the ability to motivate and guide the design team effectively.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

Advanced CBTC & Signaling Training: Access to specialized training programs on the latest CBTC technologies, signaling principles, and system integration techniques.
Project Management Certifications: Support for obtaining professional certifications such as the Project Management Professional (PMP) or Chartered Engineer status.
Leadership Development Programs: Opportunities to participate in AECOM's internal leadership and management training to hone skills in team management, strategic planning, and stakeholder engagement.
Industry Conferences & Seminars: Participation in key industry events to stay abreast of emerging trends, technologies, and best practices in rail transit and signaling.
Mentorship: Opportunities to be mentored by senior engineers and project leaders within AECOM, gaining insights into career progression and effective project execution strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges inherent in this role are significant, requiring a proactive and adaptable approach. However, these challenges also provide excellent opportunities for professional growth and skill development within a leading infrastructure firm.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

Operations Strategy & Methodology: "Describe your approach to managing the design process for a large-scale CBTC modernization program. What are the key phases, deliverables, and control mechanisms you would implement?" (Preparation: Focus on structured project management phases, risk identification, quality gates, and stakeholder engagement strategies.)
Collaboration & Stakeholder Management: "How would you ensure effective coordination between the design team, the system supplier, and the construction team, especially when design changes or conflicts arise?" (Preparation: Emphasize proactive communication, clear documentation (ICDs), regular interface meetings, and conflict resolution techniques.)
Problem-Solving & Efficiency: "Imagine a critical interface between the new signaling system and the existing power infrastructure is proving difficult to resolve. How would you approach this problem to ensure minimal impact on the project schedule and budget?" (Preparation: Detail a systematic problem-solving process: define the issue, gather data, brainstorm solutions, evaluate options, implement, and monitor.)

Company & Culture Questions:

Company Operations Focus: "Based on your understanding of AECOM and the infrastructure industry, how do you see your role contributing to the company's overall operational success and its mission to 'Deliver a Better World'?" (Preparation: Research AECOM's values, recent projects, and strategic goals. Connect your operational approach to these broader objectives.)
Team Dynamics: "Describe your ideal team environment. How do you foster collaboration and ensure all team members, including junior engineers and subconsultants, feel empowered and contribute effectively?" (Preparation: Discuss your leadership style, methods for promoting inclusivity, and strategies for knowledge sharing and mentorship.)
Impact Measurement: "How do you measure the success of a design management process? What key performance indicators (KPIs) would you track, and how would you report on them?" (Preparation: Discuss metrics like schedule adherence, number of design changes, compliance rates, RFI turnaround times, and overall constructibility.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

Structure Your Narrative: For each portfolio example, clearly articulate the project context, your specific role and responsibilities, the challenges faced, the operational processes you implemented, the solutions you developed, and the quantifiable results achieved.
Highlight Process, Not Just Output: Emphasize how you managed the design, not just what the final design looked like. Showcase your use of tools, your risk mitigation strategies, and your quality assurance methods.
Focus on Relevance: Select examples that most closely align with the requirements of the Design Manager role for rail transit signaling programs. Prioritize projects involving complex systems integration or brownfield environments.
Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about the processes, decisions, and outcomes presented in your portfolio. Be ready to elaborate on specific challenges and how you overcame them.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not only technical competence but also a strong understanding of project operations, process management, and leadership, supported by concrete examples from the candidate's professional history.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

Submit your application through the provided link on the AECOM careers portal.
Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight specific experiences in rail transit signaling, CBTC systems, design management, and complex project coordination. Emphasize achievements related to process optimization, quality assurance, and successful stakeholder engagement.
Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly outlines your 10+ years of relevant experience, including specific project types, responsibilities, and technologies used (e.g., AutoCAD, P6, PMIS platforms). Quantify achievements where possible.
Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design management philosophy, your approach to systems integration and risk management, and your leadership style. Prepare specific examples from your past projects that demonstrate your capabilities in these areas.
Company Research: Thoroughly research AECOM, its current projects, and its corporate values. Understand their approach to infrastructure development and how this role contributes to their mission. Be ready to discuss how your operational expertise aligns with their organizational goals.

⚠️ 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.

Design Manager – Rail Transit Signaling Program