Design Manager Roads/Civil Lead - Perth

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager Roads/Civil Lead
Company: Aurecon
Location: Perth, Western Australia, Australia
Job Type: FULL_TIME
Category: Engineering Management / Civil Infrastructure Operations
Date Posted: 2026-02-17
Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (5-10 years)
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the design process for significant Roads and Civil infrastructure projects, ensuring quality, innovation, and cost-effectiveness within a GTM (Go-to-Market) operations framework.
• Drive technical problem-solving and design coordination across multiple disciplines to ensure seamless project delivery and client satisfaction.
• Foster a high-performance, collaborative culture within project teams, emphasizing shared success and continuous improvement.
• Build and maintain robust relationships with delivery partners, clients, and government agencies to ensure project alignment and stakeholder buy-in.
• Contribute to the strategic pursuit of future market opportunities by leveraging project experience and market insights.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role is framed within Aurecon's broader GTM strategy, emphasizing client relationship management and market opportunity pursuit. While not a traditional Revenue Operations role, the emphasis on client satisfaction, project delivery excellence, and contributing to future business development aligns with operational excellence objectives crucial for a GTM function. The "Transport, Land and Water" team context suggests a focus on large-scale infrastructure projects requiring robust project management and operational oversight.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design Leadership & Coordination: Lead and coordinate the end-to-end design process for large-scale Roads and Civil projects, ensuring innovative, high-quality, and cost-effective solutions that align with client, stakeholder, and regulatory requirements.
• Technical Problem Resolution: Proactively identify, analyze, and resolve complex technical and design challenges to ensure projects are delivered on time, within scope, and to the highest engineering standards.
• Team & Culture Building: Cultivate a thriving, collaborative, and high-performance culture within project teams, fostering an environment of trust, mutual respect, and shared accountability.
• Stakeholder & Client Engagement: Build and maintain strong, trust-based relationships with delivery partners, clients, and government agencies, ensuring clear communication and alignment throughout project lifecycles.
• Interdisciplinary Management: Effectively manage the interfaces between various engineering disciplines, ensuring seamless integration and communication across all project stages from conceptualization to execution.
• Liaison & Communication: Act as a key liaison with construction contractors, government bodies, and other stakeholders, facilitating clear communication and resolving any project-related issues.
• Project Governance: Provide concise and impactful communication to project governance groups, ensuring transparency and timely updates on project progress, risks, and key decisions.
• Business Development Support: Contribute valuable input into the pursuit of future project opportunities by leveraging insights gained from current project delivery and market engagement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong emphasis on project execution and client-facing activities, typical of a senior engineering or project management role within a consulting firm. The "Go-to-Market" aspect is implied through "input into the pursuit of future opportunities" and "building strong trust-based relationships with delivery partners and clients," suggesting the role contributes to Aurecon's business development efforts by ensuring successful project outcomes that lead to repeat business and new opportunities.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Tertiary qualifications in Engineering (e.g., Bachelor of Engineering, Master of Engineering).

Experience:

• Proven experience as a Design Manager on major Roads and/or Civil infrastructure projects.
• Demonstrable experience in leading and coordinating complex design processes.
• Experience in managing project and consortium commercial aspects.

Required Skills:

• Design Management: Expertise in overseeing and directing the design process for large-scale infrastructure projects.
• Roads & Civil Design: Comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices involved in roads and civil engineering design.
• Project Leadership: Ability to lead, motivate, and guide project teams towards successful outcomes.
• Stakeholder Management: Skill in building and maintaining effective relationships with clients, partners, and regulatory bodies.
• Technical Problem Solving: Aptitude for identifying and resolving complex engineering challenges.
• Team Collaboration: Proven ability to foster a collaborative and high-performance team environment.
• Client Relationship Management: Experience in developing and nurturing strong client partnerships.
• Interdisciplinary Coordination: Capability to manage and integrate the work of diverse engineering disciplines.
• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication for liaison with various stakeholders, including project governance groups.
• Positive Leadership: A leadership style that inspires followship and focuses on team culture and development.
• Mentoring: Passion and ability to mentor the next generation of project leaders.

Preferred Skills:

• Understanding of how design impacts construction methodology.
• Familiarity with sustainability and carbon-neutral design principles in infrastructure.
• Experience in national or regional infrastructure markets within Australia.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize practical experience and leadership qualities over specific software proficiencies, aligning with a senior management role. The "understanding of how the design impacts the construction methodology" and "project and consortium commercial aspects" point to a need for a holistic view of project delivery, bridging design and execution. The emphasis on "positive leadership" and "mentoring" suggests a focus on developing future talent within Aurecon's operations.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Delivery Case Studies: Documented examples of leading design processes for major Roads and Civil projects, showcasing successful outcomes in terms of quality, innovation, and cost-effectiveness.
• Problem Resolution Examples: Specific instances where complex technical or design challenges were proactively identified and resolved, demonstrating analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Team Leadership & Culture Impact: Evidence of fostering collaborative and high-performance team cultures, potentially through team development initiatives or successful cross-disciplinary integration projects.
• Stakeholder Engagement Successes: Examples of building and maintaining strong relationships with clients, delivery partners, and government agencies, highlighting successful project outcomes and client satisfaction.

Process Documentation:

• Design Workflow Optimization: Showcase of methodologies used to streamline and optimize design workflows, ensuring efficiency and adherence to project timelines and budgets.
• Interdisciplinary Integration Strategies: Examples of processes implemented to manage and coordinate interfaces between different engineering disciplines effectively.
• Risk Management & Mitigation: Documentation of how design-related risks were identified, assessed, and mitigated throughout the project lifecycle.
• Quality Assurance & Control: Evidence of processes and systems implemented to ensure the highest standards of engineering quality and compliance with regulatory requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated, a Design Manager role of this caliber would be expected to present a portfolio demonstrating their leadership in managing complex design processes. This includes showcasing how they've optimized workflows, managed interdisciplinary teams, and ensured project success through effective problem-solving and stakeholder management, all critical components of operational excellence in engineering project delivery.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for a Design Manager / Civil Lead with 5-10 years of experience in Perth, Australia, the estimated salary range is AUD $150,000 - $200,000 per annum. This range accounts for the leadership responsibilities, technical expertise, and the strategic importance of the role in securing and delivering major infrastructure projects.

Benefits:

• Professional Development: Opportunities for continuous learning, professional development, and training to enhance technical and leadership skills.
• Career Advancement: Clear pathways for career progression within Aurecon's global network, including opportunities for leadership roles on larger or more complex projects.
• Health & Wellbeing: Comprehensive health insurance, wellness programs, and support for work-life balance.
• Superannuation: Competitive superannuation contributions as per Australian legislative requirements.
• Performance Bonuses: Potential for performance-based bonuses linked to individual and company success.
• Sustainable Impact: Opportunity to work on projects with a strong focus on sustainability and carbon neutrality, contributing to a positive legacy.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are typically 40 hours per week. While the role is primarily on-site, Aurecon generally supports flexible working arrangements where feasible and conducive to project delivery and team collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on research of similar Design Manager and Civil Lead positions in Perth, Western Australia, considering Aurecon's standing as a major engineering and advisory firm. Benefits are inferred from typical offerings for senior engineering roles in large, reputable Australian companies, with a specific emphasis on professional development, career growth, and the company's stated commitment to sustainability.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering, Design, and Advisory Services, with a strong focus on infrastructure, built environment, and energy sectors. Aurecon is a global company known for its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and technical excellence. Company Size: Aurecon is a large, global organization with over 7,000 employees across more than 20 countries. This scale offers significant opportunities for diverse project exposure and career growth. Founded: Aurecon was formed in 2009 through the merger of two established engineering firms, with roots tracing back over 80 years. This rich history provides a foundation of experience and expertise.

Team Structure:

• Transport, Land and Water Team: This role sits within the Transport, Land and Water team, indicating a specialization in infrastructure projects related to transportation networks, land development, and water management.
• Project-Based Hierarchy: Project teams are typically structured with a Project Director or Manager at the top, followed by leads for specific disciplines such as Design Management, Technical Engineering, and Construction. This Design Manager role will likely report to a Project Director or Senior Manager.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: A key aspect of Aurecon's culture is cross-functional collaboration, where engineers, designers, planners, and advisors work together to deliver integrated solutions. This role will heavily involve interfacing with other technical disciplines and potentially commercial or project controls teams.

Methodology:

• Sustainability-Driven Design: Aurecon places a significant emphasis on embedding sustainability and carbon neutrality into all its projects, influencing design decisions and material selection.
• Data-Informed Decision Making: Projects leverage data analytics and digital tools to inform design choices, optimize performance, and identify potential risks or efficiencies.
• Agile Project Delivery Principles: While traditional project management is common, Aurecon often incorporates agile principles for iterative design and problem-solving, particularly in complex or fast-evolving projects.
• Client-Centric Approach: The company prioritizes understanding and meeting client needs, fostering long-term partnerships through reliable delivery and innovative solutions.

Company Website: www.aurecongroup.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Aurecon's focus on sustainability and innovation is a key differentiator. For operations professionals, this means understanding how these principles are integrated into project planning, execution, and reporting. The company's global presence and long history suggest a stable yet forward-thinking organization with established operational processes.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a senior-level Design Manager and Lead within a specialized engineering team. It requires a blend of technical engineering expertise, strong project leadership, and strategic client/stakeholder engagement. The scope involves overseeing significant projects, managing teams, and contributing to business development efforts.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will likely report to a Project Director or a Senior Manager within the Transport, Land and Water division. They will be responsible for leading a team of design engineers and coordinators, and will collaborate closely with construction managers, project managers, and client representatives.

Operations Impact: The role's impact is significant, directly influencing the successful delivery of major infrastructure projects. This includes ensuring designs meet stringent quality, safety, and sustainability standards, optimizing project costs and timelines, and fostering client satisfaction. Successful project delivery by the Design Manager contributes directly to Aurecon's reputation, revenue generation, and ability to win future work.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas of road or civil engineering design, potentially leading to Principal Engineer or Technical Authority roles.
• Project Leadership Expansion: Progress to managing larger, more complex, or multiple projects simultaneously, potentially taking on Project Director responsibilities.
• Business Development & Client Management: Transition into roles with a greater focus on client relationship management, business development, and winning new projects.
• Operational Management: Move into broader operational management roles within Aurecon, overseeing teams or specific service lines.
• Mentorship & Thought Leadership: Develop into a recognized expert and mentor within the industry, contributing to Aurecon's knowledge base and industry reputation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth trajectory for this role is firmly within project and technical leadership paths. For operations professionals, understanding how design management contributes to overall project success and client retention is key. The emphasis on "mentoring the next generation" highlights an internal operational focus on talent development.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Perth, Australia, and is described as "On-site," indicating a primary work setting within Aurecon's office premises. This environment is designed for collaborative work, team meetings, and focused design tasks. Office Location(s): The primary location is Perth, Western Australia. Aurecon also has offices in Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney, suggesting potential for cross-office collaboration and opportunities in other major Australian cities.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: Aurecon offices are typically designed to foster collaboration, with open-plan areas, meeting rooms, and breakout spaces to facilitate team interaction and knowledge sharing.
• Technology-Rich Environment: Access to state-of-the-art design software, hardware, and communication tools is standard, enabling efficient execution of design tasks and virtual collaboration.
• Team Integration: The workspace encourages regular interaction with the Transport, Land and Water team, as well as other disciplines, promoting a cohesive and integrated project delivery approach.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is full-time, typically 40 hours per week. While the role is on-site, Aurecon aims to support a healthy work-life balance, with flexibility often available depending on project demands and team needs. This allows for effective management of design processes and personal well-being.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "On-site" requirement underscores the importance of in-person collaboration for design management and team leadership. The office environment is expected to be conducive to engineering operations, with the necessary technological infrastructure and collaborative spaces.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your application and resume, focusing on relevant experience in roads/civil design management and leadership.
• Technical Interview: Discussion with senior engineering staff or a hiring manager to assess your technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and understanding of design processes and construction methodologies. Expect questions on past projects and technical challenges.
• Leadership & Culture Fit Interview: An interview focusing on your leadership style, team management approach, ability to foster culture, and how you align with Aurecon's values (e.g., sustainability, innovation, collaboration). This may involve behavioral questions.
• Portfolio Review Session: A dedicated session where you will present key case studies from your portfolio, demonstrating your project leadership, design coordination, problem-solving achievements, and stakeholder management skills.
• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior executive or Director to discuss strategic alignment, career aspirations, and final suitability for the role.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Impact: For each case study, clearly articulate the project's objectives, your specific role and responsibilities, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented, and the measurable outcomes (e.g., cost savings, time efficiencies, quality improvements, client satisfaction).
• Showcase Leadership: Emphasize your leadership in coordinating design teams, managing interdisciplinary interfaces, and fostering a collaborative environment.
• Demonstrate Problem-Solving: Detail specific instances of technical or design challenges you encountered and how you systematically resolved them.
• Quantify Achievements: Use data and metrics wherever possible to demonstrate the impact of your work (e.g., percentage reduction in design revisions, adherence to budget, project completion timelines).
• Align with Aurecon's Values: Frame your experiences to resonate with Aurecon's commitment to sustainability, innovation, and client partnership.

Challenge Preparation:

• Case Study Analysis: Be prepared to discuss a hypothetical or past complex design scenario. Focus on your approach to problem definition, stakeholder consultation, solution generation, risk assessment, and implementation planning.
• Leadership Scenarios: Anticipate questions about managing conflict within a team, motivating underperforming individuals, or handling difficult client negotiations. Prepare examples using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
• Technical Scrutiny: Be ready to articulate the technical details of your past projects, including design considerations, materials, construction methods, and regulatory compliance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is structured to assess not only technical competence but also leadership capabilities and cultural fit, which are critical for a role managing complex projects and teams within Aurecon's operational framework. A strong portfolio is essential for demonstrating practical application of skills.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency in industry-standard Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software such as AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and potentially Bentley’s suite (e.g., OpenRoads, MicroStation) is essential for design development and documentation.
• BIM Software: Experience with Building Information Modeling (BIM) platforms (e.g., Autodesk Revit, Navisworks) is increasingly important for integrated design, clash detection, and project visualization.
• Project Management Software: Familiarity with project management tools like Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or similar for scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: While not a primary analyst role, understanding how to interpret design-related data and performance metrics is beneficial. Familiarity with tools used for reporting project progress and design compliance.
• Collaboration Platforms: Proficiency in platforms like Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, or Aurecon's internal collaboration tools for communication, document sharing, and team coordination.

CRM & Automation:

• Internal Systems: While specific CRM tools might not be directly used by the Design Manager, understanding how project data feeds into broader client management systems and business development pipelines is advantageous.
• Workflow Automation: Awareness of how automation can be applied within design processes, such as using scripts or templates to improve efficiency and reduce manual tasks.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job description doesn't specify exact software, a Design Manager in Civil Infrastructure would typically be expected to be highly proficient in CAD and BIM software relevant to roads and civil works. Familiarity with project management and collaboration tools is also crucial for operational efficiency.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Sustainability & Future Focus: A core value at Aurecon, driving a commitment to designing solutions that are environmentally responsible and contribute positively to future generations. This impacts decision-making throughout the project lifecycle.
• Innovation & Ingenuity: Encouraging creative thinking and the pursuit of novel solutions to complex engineering challenges, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in infrastructure design.
• Collaboration & Partnership: Fostering a strong sense of teamwork, both internally across disciplines and externally with clients and stakeholders, built on trust and mutual respect.
• Excellence & Quality: A commitment to delivering high-quality work that meets or exceeds client expectations and industry standards, ensuring the long-term performance and safety of infrastructure.
• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding the highest ethical standards and taking ownership of responsibilities, ensuring transparency and reliability in all dealings.

Collaboration Style:

• Integrated Project Teams: Aurecon promotes an integrated approach where design, construction, and advisory functions work seamlessly together, breaking down traditional silos.
• Open Communication Channels: Encouraging direct and honest communication, with an emphasis on constructive feedback and knowledge sharing to drive continuous improvement.
• Cross-Disciplinary Exchange: Actively facilitating opportunities for engineers and designers from different specializations to share insights, learn from each other, and contribute to holistic project solutions.
• Client-Centric Interaction: Maintaining a strong focus on understanding and responding to client needs, ensuring that collaboration efforts are always aligned with project objectives and client satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: Aurecon's values, particularly sustainability and innovation, are deeply embedded in their operational approach. A candidate's ability to align with and embody these values will be crucial for success and integration into the team's culture.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complex Project Integration: Managing the intricate interfaces between various engineering disciplines, construction phases, and stakeholder requirements on large-scale infrastructure projects.
• Balancing Innovation with Practicality: Driving innovative design solutions while ensuring they are constructible, cost-effective, and meet stringent regulatory standards.
• Stakeholder Alignment: Navigating diverse stakeholder interests (clients, government bodies, community groups, contractors) to achieve consensus and project buy-in.
• Adapting to Evolving Technologies: Staying abreast of and integrating new design technologies, materials, and sustainable practices into project workflows.
• Mentoring and Developing Talent: Effectively guiding and developing junior engineers and design coordinators, fostering a pipeline of future leaders within Aurecon.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Access to specialized training programs and workshops to deepen expertise in specific areas of roads and civil engineering.
• Leadership Development Programs: Formal training and mentorship opportunities designed to enhance project leadership, strategic thinking, and team management skills.
• Industry Conferences & Networking: Opportunities to attend major industry events, share knowledge, and build professional networks.
• Exposure to Global Projects: Potential to gain insights from and collaborate on international projects, broadening experience and perspective.
• Sustainability Accreditation & Training: Pursuing certifications and training related to sustainable design and infrastructure development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for senior roles in major project delivery firms, requiring strong technical, leadership, and interpersonal skills. Aurecon's commitment to learning and development provides clear pathways for career progression and skill enhancement, aligning with operational excellence goals.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Project Leadership & Design Process: "Describe your approach to leading the design process for a major road project. How do you ensure quality, innovation, and cost-effectiveness?" Prepare to discuss your methodology for task delegation, progress tracking, and quality assurance.
• Stakeholder Management & Conflict Resolution: "Tell me about a time you had to manage conflicting interests among stakeholders on a project. How did you achieve alignment and move the project forward?" Focus on your communication strategy, negotiation skills, and ability to build consensus.
• Technical Problem Solving & Innovation: "Walk me through a significant technical challenge you faced in a civil design project and how you overcame it. What innovative solutions did you consider or implement?" Be ready to detail your analytical process, decision-making criteria, and the impact of your solution.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Alignment with Aurecon's Values: "How do you see your approach to design management aligning with Aurecon's commitment to sustainability and innovation?" Research Aurecon's sustainability reports and recent innovative projects.
• Team Culture & Mentoring: "How do you foster a collaborative and high-performance culture within your design teams? What is your philosophy on mentoring junior engineers?" Provide specific examples of your leadership style and team-building activities.
• Operational Impact & Client Focus: "How do you ensure your design management efforts contribute to overall project success and client satisfaction?" Discuss your understanding of project lifecycle operational impacts and client relationship management.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio by project, using a consistent format for each: Project Overview, Your Role & Responsibilities, Key Challenges, Innovative Solutions/Design Approach, Outcomes & Impact (quantified where possible), and Lessons Learned.
• Storytelling: Frame your case studies as compelling narratives that highlight your problem-solving abilities, leadership skills, and contributions to project success.
• Visuals: Use clear diagrams, drawings, or renderings where appropriate to illustrate design concepts and project scope.
• Conciseness: Be prepared to present key highlights efficiently, focusing on the most relevant aspects for the role and Aurecon's operations. Be ready for deeper dives into specific areas based on interviewer interest.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not just technical knowledge but also leadership, strategic thinking, and alignment with Aurecon's operational values and culture. A well-prepared portfolio is crucial for substantiating claims and showcasing practical experience.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the Aurecon careers portal link provided.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight specific experience in roads and civil design management, leadership of engineering teams, stakeholder engagement, and contributions to project success. Use keywords from the job description such as "Design Manager," "Civil Lead," "Project Leadership," "Stakeholder Management," and "Sustainability."
• Portfolio Curation: Prepare a portfolio that showcases 2-3 key projects demonstrating your expertise in leading design processes, resolving technical challenges, and fostering team collaboration. Focus on quantifiable achievements and alignment with Aurecon's operational ethos.
• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions. Prepare to discuss your leadership philosophy, problem-solving approach, and how you contribute to a positive team culture, aligning with Aurecon's values.
• Company Research: Thoroughly research Aurecon's recent projects, sustainability initiatives, and company values. Be prepared to discuss how your skills and experience can contribute to their ongoing success and operational 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.