Design Manager - Transmission & Distribution

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager - Transmission & Distribution
Company: AECOM
Location: Birmingham, United Kingdom
Job Type: Full-time
Category: Engineering Operations / Project Management
Date Posted: December 10, 2025
Experience Level: 5-10 Years
Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearhead the technical and managerial oversight of complex engineering design projects within the Transmission & Distribution (T&D) sector, focusing on delivering critical infrastructure solutions.
• Serve as a Technical Project Manager, orchestrating multi-disciplinary design teams to execute projects from concept through to operational completion, ensuring adherence to stringent safety, quality, and environmental standards.
• Drive strategic planning and execution for large-scale programs, such as the UK National Grid's Great Grid Partnership, contributing to the modernization of energy infrastructure.
• Cultivate and maintain robust client relationships, identifying new business opportunities, and supporting proposal development to drive AECOM's growth in the T&D market.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a Design Manager with significant Technical Project Management responsibilities within the specialized Transmission & Distribution (T&D) engineering domain. The emphasis on managing multi-disciplinary teams, overseeing project lifecycles, and contributing to major national infrastructure projects like the Great Grid Partnership indicates a mid-to-senior level position requiring strong leadership, technical acumen, and client-facing skills within operations and project execution.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the end-to-end engineering design process for T&D projects across the UK & Ireland, ensuring seamless collaboration with Discipline Leads, Project Managers, and Directors.
• Act as the primary Technical Project Manager for multi-disciplinary design initiatives, encompassing substation primary, cables, protection & control, civils, overhead lines, and environmental scopes.
• Oversee all project phases, including concept development, Front-End Engineering Design (FEED), environmental assessments, permitting, consenting, planning, cost estimation, and detailed engineering.
• Uphold rigorous safety, health, environmental, sustainability, and quality standards throughout all project lifecycle stages.
• Ensure complete compliance of design submissions with relevant codes, industry standards, and client-specific quality requirements.
• Champion AECOM and client design management processes, effectively leading project and client meetings to ensure clear communication and alignment.
• Provide comprehensive and regular updates on project progress, budget adherence, schedule milestones, procurement status, safety, environmental considerations, and technical challenges.
• Manage project components, including strategic resource allocation, subcontractor coordination, safeguarding design integrity, and incorporating client feedback for continuous improvement.
• Actively participate in proposal preparation, lead client presentations, and engage in contract negotiations to secure new business and project wins.
• Foster a proactive "Safety by Design" culture, ensuring high technical standards by staying abreast of industry best practices and client standards to enhance safety, constructability, and asset operability.
• Represent AECOM with the utmost professionalism and integrity, strictly adhering to ethical standards and the company's Code of Conduct.
• Provide essential mentorship, technical guidance, and professional development support to junior engineers and team members, fostering a high-performance team environment.
• Conduct thorough internal reviews and quality checks of engineering deliverables, including complex designs, technical reports, proposals, presentations, and drawing packages.
• Lead the delivery of challenging projects and the development of cutting-edge technical skills, ensuring their practical application adds significant value to AECOM and its clients.
• Identify and implement opportunities for design optimization and cost efficiencies to enhance project profitability and client satisfaction.
• Proactively pursue new business opportunities, accurately defining project scope, schedule, budget, and exclusions for compelling proposals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities listed go beyond typical design management, incorporating significant project management duties, client relationship building, business development, and team leadership. This suggests a role that requires a strong blend of technical expertise and commercial acumen, typical of senior operations or project leadership roles in large engineering consultancies.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Degree qualified in Electrical or Power Systems Engineering, or an equivalent field, demonstrating a strong foundational understanding of core engineering principles.

Experience:

• Substantial experience in managing complex, multi-discipline engineering design projects within the Transmission & Distribution (T&D), renewables, or large infrastructure sectors.
• Proven track record of successfully managing projects and meeting delivery requirements for key clients across the UK & Ireland.
• Demonstrated ability in client relationship management and contributing to business development initiatives.
• Experience in overseeing various project phases, from initial concept and FEED through to detailed design and construction support.

Required Skills:

• Transmission & Distribution (T&D) Engineering: Deep understanding of T&D systems, including substations, cabling, overhead lines, and grid integration.
• Project Management: Proven ability to manage complex, multi-disciplinary projects, including scope, schedule, budget, and resource allocation.
• Technical Leadership: Capacity to provide technical guidance, review complex designs, and ensure adherence to engineering standards and best practices.
• Client Relationship Management: Skill in building and maintaining strong client relationships, understanding client needs, and representing the company professionally.
• Safety & Quality Assurance: Commitment to upholding rigorous safety, health, environmental, and quality standards throughout the design and project lifecycle.
• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication for effective stakeholder engagement, reporting, and presentation delivery.

Preferred Skills:

• National Grid/TSO Project Experience: Working experience with the National Grid or other Transmission System Operators (TSOs) is highly advantageous.
• Chartered/Professional Certifications: Chartered status (e.g., IET) or equivalent professional engineering certifications (e.g., LCDAE/CDAE) are beneficial.
• Business Development: Experience in identifying new opportunities, supporting bid preparation, and participating in contract negotiations.
• Specific T&D Technologies: Familiarity with specialized areas such as HVDC Systems, SCADA, and Communications systems within T&D networks.
• Cost Estimation & Financial Management: Proficiency in developing project cost estimates and managing project budgets effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on specific T&D experience, client relationship management, and the advantageous nature of National Grid/TSO project experience strongly suggests this role is critical for AECOM's strategic growth in the UK energy infrastructure market. The preferred certifications indicate a pathway towards recognized professional engineering leadership.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Lifecycle Management: Showcase a portfolio that demonstrates experience managing engineering design projects through their entire lifecycle, from initial concept and feasibility studies to detailed design, construction support, and close-out.
• Multi-Disciplinary Project Execution: Present case studies of complex, multi-disciplinary projects where you successfully coordinated diverse engineering teams (e.g., electrical, civil, environmental) to achieve integrated design solutions.
• Technical Documentation & Deliverables: Include examples of high-quality engineering deliverables such as design reports, technical specifications, complex calculations, and detailed drawing packages that you have reviewed or overseen.
• Process Optimization & Efficiency: Highlight instances where you identified and implemented design optimization strategies or process improvements that led to cost savings, schedule acceleration, or enhanced constructability and operability.

Process Documentation:

• Design Management Processes: Demonstrate understanding and application of structured design management processes, including design review gates, quality assurance procedures, and change control mechanisms.
• Safety by Design Implementation: Provide evidence of how you have integrated "Safety by Design" principles into engineering workflows, ensuring safety considerations are paramount from the earliest design stages.
• Client Collaboration & Reporting: Showcase examples of how you have established clear communication channels and reporting structures with clients, providing regular, transparent updates on project progress, risks, and performance metrics.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role at this level, a portfolio is crucial. Candidates should be prepared to present detailed case studies that illustrate not just technical competence, but also project management skills, leadership in cross-functional teams, and a strategic approach to problem-solving and efficiency gains within engineering operations.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• £60,000 - £85,000 per annum.

Rationale for Salary Estimate: This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for Design Managers and Technical Project Managers with 5-10 years of experience in the UK engineering and infrastructure sector, specifically within Transmission & Distribution. Factors considered include job responsibilities (managing multi-disciplinary teams, client relations, business development), location (Birmingham, a major UK city with a strong engineering presence), and the demanding nature of projects like the UK National Grid's Great Grid Partnership. Salary data was cross-referenced from reputable UK salary aggregators and industry specific compensation surveys.

Benefits:

• Career Development Opportunities: Access to extensive professional development programs, training, and opportunities for advancement within AECOM's global network.
• Flexible Hybrid Working Model: A structured hybrid work arrangement designed to promote work-life balance, allowing for a combination of office-based collaboration and remote flexibility.
• Volunteering Days: Paid time off to engage in community service and volunteer activities, reflecting AECOM's commitment to social responsibility.
• Comprehensive Health & Well-being Programs: A range of benefits focusing on employee health, including medical coverage, mental health support, and wellness initiatives.
• Pension Scheme: Competitive employer-matched pension contributions to support long-term financial security.
• Life Assurance: Provision of life assurance cover for peace of mind.
• Annual Leave: Generous annual leave allowance, increasing with service.
• Technical Practice Networks: Opportunities to connect with and learn from specialists across various engineering disciplines globally.
• AECOM University: Access to a dedicated online learning platform offering a vast library of courses and resources for continuous skill enhancement.

Working Hours:

• Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week.
• The role operates on a hybrid model, offering flexibility in how and where work is performed, balancing on-site collaboration with remote work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is an estimate based on industry standards for a role of this seniority and specialization in the UK. Actual compensation may vary based on the candidate's specific experience, qualifications, and the outcome of negotiations. The benefits package is comprehensive, reflecting AECOM's commitment to employee well-being and professional growth, with specific mention of hybrid work, career development, and volunteering days.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering Consulting & Infrastructure Development. AECOM operates globally, providing a broad spectrum of professional services across transportation, buildings, water, new energy, and the environment. The company plays a pivotal role in shaping urban landscapes and critical infrastructure worldwide.

Company Size: Fortune 500 firm with over 50,000 employees globally. This large scale provides extensive resources, a vast network of expertise, and opportunities for international collaboration, while also necessitating clear internal processes and communication channels.

Founded: AECOM has a long history, with its origins tracing back to the 1930s. This extensive legacy signifies stability, deep industry knowledge, and a proven track record in delivering complex, long-term projects.

Team Structure:

• Operations Team: The T&D Engineering team is a specialized unit within AECOM's broader operations, likely comprising numerous Discipline Leads, Project Managers, engineers, and support staff. The team leverages global "Enterprise Capability" offices for specialized skills, indicating a matrixed organizational structure that requires strong coordination.
• Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will report to senior leadership within the T&D business, likely a Director or VP of Engineering. They will, in turn, manage project teams, including Discipline Leads, who may have their own reporting lines.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: The role inherently requires extensive collaboration with various internal disciplines (substation primary, cables, civils, environmental, etc.), project management offices, business development teams, and potentially client-side representatives.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: AECOM emphasizes leveraging data and digital innovation to solve complex infrastructure challenges. Expect a focus on robust analysis, performance metrics, and evidence-based decision-making in design and project execution.
• Integrated Design & Delivery: The company promotes an integrated approach, combining advisory, planning, design, engineering, and construction management services to offer end-to-end solutions. This requires seamless coordination and communication across different project phases and functions.
• Sustainability & ESG Focus: AECOM has a strong commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) priorities. This means design and project decisions will increasingly be evaluated through the lens of sustainability, resilience, and positive community impact.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's global scale and Fortune 500 status mean it operates with sophisticated processes and a strong emphasis on professional standards. The T&D team's involvement in major national projects suggests a high-performance culture focused on technical excellence, client satisfaction, and large-scale operational delivery.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This Design Manager role represents a significant step in an engineering career, moving beyond individual technical contribution to encompass managerial, strategic, and client-facing responsibilities. It is typically considered a senior-level position within the engineering operations and project delivery framework.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will report to senior leadership within the T&D sector, likely a Director or VP. They will manage project teams, including Discipline Leads, fostering a collaborative environment where technical expertise is leveraged across disciplines. This structure emphasizes leadership and the ability to influence across different functional areas.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager plays a crucial role in the success of AECOM's T&D projects, directly impacting revenue through effective project delivery, client satisfaction, and winning new business. Their decisions influence project timelines, budgets, safety outcomes, and the long-term performance and sustainability of critical energy infrastructure, contributing significantly to AECOM's overall business objectives and market position.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to progress to higher management roles such as Director of Engineering, Sector Lead, or General Manager, overseeing larger portfolios and broader business units.
• Specialization & Expertise: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific T&D technologies (e.g., HVDC, grid modernization) or project types, becoming a recognized subject matter expert.
• Business Development & Commercial Acumen: Develop stronger skills in client management, proposal writing, and commercial negotiation, potentially transitioning into roles with a greater commercial focus.
• Global Mobility: Access to international projects and assignments within AECOM's vast global network, offering diverse experiences and career expansion.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a pivotal point for career growth in engineering operations and project management. It offers a clear path from technical leadership to broader business management, with opportunities to influence both project outcomes and the strategic direction of AECOM's T&D business.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid work model, combining office-based collaboration with remote work flexibility. AECOM offices are typically professional environments designed to facilitate collaboration, innovation, and client engagement.

Office Location(s): The primary location for this role is Birmingham, United Kingdom. AECOM operates numerous offices globally, and specific project needs may involve travel to other UK sites or client locations.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The hybrid model encourages interaction with colleagues during office days, fostering teamwork, knowledge sharing, and mentorship. Teams will likely utilize project rooms, meeting spaces, and shared workstations.
• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to industry-leading design software, project management platforms, and communication tools essential for T&D engineering and project oversight. This includes advanced CAD/BIM tools, simulation software, and collaboration platforms.
• Team Interaction: Regular opportunities for interaction with a diverse team of engineers, project managers, and support staff, both in person and through virtual collaboration tools, supporting a dynamic and engaged work environment.

Work Schedule:

• Standard working hours are approximately 40 hours per week.
• The hybrid arrangement allows for flexibility in managing work hours and location, accommodating project deadlines and personal needs while ensuring consistent delivery and team connectivity.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work environment at AECOM is designed to balance the need for focused, individual work with the benefits of in-person collaboration and team cohesion, crucial for complex engineering projects.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your application, focusing on your resume and cover letter to assess alignment with the core requirements, particularly T&D experience, project management capabilities, and client-facing skills.
• First Interview (Hiring Manager/Recruiter): A discussion to delve deeper into your experience, motivations for applying, and understanding of the role. Be prepared to articulate your project management approach and T&D expertise.
• Technical Interview/Case Study: This stage will likely involve a technical assessment or a case study related to T&D design management. You may be asked to discuss a past project in detail, analyze a design challenge, or outline your approach to managing a complex multi-disciplinary project. Your portfolio will be invaluable here.
• Final Interview (Senior Leadership): An opportunity to meet with senior stakeholders to discuss your strategic thinking, leadership potential, and cultural fit within AECOM. This is also a chance for you to ask in-depth questions about the company's vision and future projects.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Impact: Curate examples that clearly demonstrate the impact of your work – quantifiable improvements in cost, schedule, safety, or technical performance.
• Structure Case Studies: For each project, clearly outline the challenge, your role and responsibilities, the solutions implemented, and the measurable outcomes achieved.
• Highlight Leadership & Collaboration: Showcase instances where you led teams, managed stakeholders, resolved conflicts, and fostered collaboration across disciplines.
• Demonstrate Technical Proficiency: Include examples of complex design challenges you've overcome, technical reviews you've conducted, and your understanding of T&D standards.
• Tailor to AECOM: Where possible, align your portfolio examples with the types of projects AECOM undertakes and the company's values (e.g., sustainability, innovation).

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand AECOM's Business: Research AECOM's recent projects, strategic initiatives, and its position within the T&D sector.
• Prepare for T&D Scenarios: Anticipate questions related to common challenges in T&D design, such as grid modernization, renewable energy integration, regulatory compliance, and stakeholder management.
• Articulate "Safety by Design": Be ready to discuss your philosophy and practical application of "Safety by Design" principles.
• Demonstrate Project Management Skills: Practice articulating your approach to project planning, risk management, resource allocation, and progress reporting.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to assess both technical and managerial competencies. A strong, well-prepared portfolio that showcases relevant experience and quantifiable achievements will be a significant asset. Candidates should be ready to articulate their leadership style and strategic thinking.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Experience with industry-standard project management tools for planning, scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking (e.g., Primavera P6, Microsoft Project, Asana, Monday.com).
• CAD/BIM Software: Familiarity with or oversight of teams using CAD and Building Information Modeling (BIM) software relevant to infrastructure design (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit, Bentley MicroStation).
• Design & Analysis Software: Understanding of the types of specialized software used in T&D engineering for power systems analysis, simulation, and component design (e.g., ETAP, PSS/E, DigSilent PowerFactory, specialized substation design tools).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret data from project performance metrics, cost reports, and design reviews. Familiarity with tools used for data visualization and reporting.
• Reporting Platforms: Experience with systems that facilitate clear and concise reporting on project status, risks, and performance to stakeholders.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: While not directly managing customer accounts, understanding the importance of CRM for client relationship management and business development support.
• Workflow Automation (Awareness): While not necessarily implementing automation directly, an understanding of how automation can improve design processes, reporting, and project management efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the Design Manager may not be hands-on with all specific software, they are expected to understand the role and importance of these tools within the T&D engineering and project management context, and to manage teams that utilize them effectively. Familiarity with project management, CAD/BIM oversight, and power systems analysis tools is key.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity and Ethics: Upholding the highest professional and ethical standards, aligning with AECOM's Code of Conduct and commitment to responsible business practices.
• Excellence and Innovation: Driving for technical excellence in design and project delivery, while embracing innovative solutions to solve complex infrastructure challenges.
• Collaboration and Teamwork: Fostering a collaborative environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and teams work together effectively to achieve shared goals.
• Safety and Sustainability: Prioritizing "Safety by Design" and integrating sustainability principles into all aspects of work to deliver resilient and environmentally conscious infrastructure.
• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and exceeding client expectations, building strong, long-term relationships based on trust and exceptional service delivery.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Encouraging seamless communication and cooperation between different engineering disciplines, project management, and business development teams to ensure holistic project success.
• Open Feedback Culture: Promoting an environment where constructive feedback is welcomed and utilized for continuous improvement of processes, designs, and team performance.
• Knowledge Sharing: Actively participating in and encouraging the sharing of best practices, lessons learned, and technical knowledge across project teams and the wider organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's culture emphasizes a blend of professional rigor, innovative thinking, and a strong commitment to ethical conduct and sustainability. The ideal candidate will thrive in a collaborative, client-focused environment that values both individual contribution and collective achievement.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Diverse Stakeholders: Effectively balancing the needs and expectations of various internal departments (project management, business development, technical specialists) and external clients, including major entities like National Grid.
• Complex Project Integration: Coordinating and integrating designs across multiple disciplines (electrical, civil, environmental, etc.) on large-scale, technically demanding projects, ensuring coherence and constructability.
• Navigating Evolving Technologies: Staying abreast of and integrating new technologies and methodologies in T&D engineering (e.g., smart grids, renewable energy integration, advanced analytics) while managing legacy systems and client requirements.
• Resource Optimization: Efficiently allocating and managing global and local resources to meet project demands while controlling costs and timelines, especially when leveraging Enterprise Capability offices.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced T&D Specializations: Opportunities to deepen expertise in cutting-edge T&D technologies and project types, potentially leading to specialized technical leadership roles.
• Industry Conferences & Certifications: Support for attending key industry events and pursuing advanced professional certifications to maintain and enhance technical and managerial skills.
• Leadership Development Programs: Participation in AECOM's leadership development initiatives designed to cultivate future senior managers and executives within the organization.
• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Gaining broad experience across different facets of infrastructure development, enhancing versatility and marketability within the consulting sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges that are directly linked to substantial growth opportunities. Successfully navigating these complexities will be key to advancing within AECOM and the broader infrastructure consulting industry.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to managing complex, multi-disciplinary T&D design projects from concept to completion. What are your key strategies for ensuring project success, adherence to budget, and on-time delivery?" (Focus on your project management framework, risk mitigation, and stakeholder communication.)
• "How do you foster a 'Safety by Design' culture within your teams? Provide an example of how you've implemented safety considerations early in the design process." (Highlight your commitment to safety and practical implementation methods.)
• "Walk me through a challenging client relationship you managed. How did you address their concerns, build trust, and ensure their satisfaction while meeting project objectives?" (Emphasize your client management skills, negotiation tactics, and problem-solving abilities.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in AECOM and specifically this Design Manager role within our T&D business? What excites you about our work, such as the Great Grid Partnership?" (Demonstrate your research into AECOM, its projects, and your alignment with its mission.)
• "How do you approach leading and mentoring engineering teams, particularly in a hybrid work environment? Describe your leadership style." (Focus on your team-building, motivational, and development strategies.)
• "AECOM prioritizes sustainability and ESG. How would you integrate these principles into the design and management of T&D projects?" (Showcase your understanding of sustainability in infrastructure and your ability to apply it operationally.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to clearly articulate your contributions and the outcomes.
• Quantify Achievements: Wherever possible, use numbers and data to demonstrate the impact of your work (e.g., cost savings achieved, schedule improvements, reduction in design errors).
• Showcase Leadership: Clearly delineate your specific role and responsibility in team management, decision-making, and stakeholder engagement.
• Highlight Technical Depth: Be prepared to discuss technical challenges and solutions at a level appropriate for the interviewers, demonstrating your engineering acumen.
• Connect to AECOM: Frame your experience in a way that directly addresses the needs and priorities of AECOM and the T&D sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong understanding of T&D engineering principles, robust project management methodologies, effective leadership, and a client-centric approach, all within the context of AECOM's operational framework and values.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on AECOM's career portal.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight your experience in Transmission & Distribution (T&D) engineering, multi-disciplinary project management, client relationship management, and any relevant TSO (e.g., National Grid) project involvement. Use keywords from the job description.
• Portfolio Preparation: Compile a concise portfolio showcasing your most impactful T&D design management projects. Focus on demonstrating leadership, technical oversight, process optimization, and successful project delivery with quantifiable results.
• Interview Practice: Rehearse answers to common interview questions, particularly those focusing on project management scenarios, leadership style, and your approach to "Safety by Design" and client relations. Prepare specific examples from your experience.
• Company Research: Thoroughly research AECOM's T&D projects, its company culture, values, and recent news. Understand their strategic priorities, such as the Great Grid Partnership, to articulate your fit and enthusiasm effectively.

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

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