Design Manager – Water Infrastructure

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager – Water Infrastructure Company: AECOM Location: Brisbane, Queensland, Australia (with hybrid options across multiple Australian cities) Job Type: Full-time Category: Engineering / Design Management / Water Infrastructure Date Posted: 2026-02-09T00:22:29.505 Experience Level: 10+ years Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage the design delivery of complex water infrastructure projects, ensuring successful project outcomes.
• Foster strong collaboration with internal project teams, cross-functional leaders, and external clients and contractors.
• Drive project execution within defined constraints of quality, time, and budget, leveraging robust project management methodologies.
• Contribute to business initiatives, including project resourcing and strategic development within the ANZ Water business.
• Uphold AECOM's commitment to delivering a better world through expert engineering and sustainable solutions in the water sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a senior leadership opportunity within AECOM's Water Infrastructure division, focusing on the strategic oversight and technical direction of design projects. The emphasis on a "secure 10 year pipeline of work" suggests a stable and long-term career path, suitable for experienced professionals seeking impactful roles in a major global consultancy.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Provide ultimate carriage and decision-making authority on all design project aspects for water infrastructure projects.
• Lead, coordinate, and guide multidisciplinary project delivery teams, ensuring alignment with project objectives and AECOM standards.
• Effectively engage with end clients and contractors to manage expectations, facilitate communication, and ensure collaborative project progression.
• Oversee the comprehensive design delivery process, from conceptualization through to detailed design and construction support.
• Ensure all projects are delivered to stringent quality standards, within agreed timelines, and adhere to budgetary constraints.
• Collaborate closely with other leaders across AECOM's ANZ Water business to ensure seamless project delivery and resource allocation.
• Actively participate in business initiatives, including supporting project resourcing needs and contributing to broader business development efforts.
• Champion sustainable outcomes and innovative solutions in water and wastewater treatment, dams, asset management, and other relevant infrastructure sectors.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical leadership, project management, and client-facing engagement. The "ultimate carriage on any design project decisions" indicates significant autonomy and accountability. The role requires not only technical expertise but also strong leadership and business acumen to manage complex project lifecycles and contribute to the strategic growth of the Water business.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Relevant tertiary qualifications (e.g., Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related field) are highly desired.

Experience:

• A minimum of 10+ years of consulting experience, with a significant focus on water infrastructure engineering and design.
• Proven track record in the successful delivery of large-scale projects, demonstrating ability to manage them on time, within budget, and to outstanding quality standards.
• Extensive experience in client relationship management and building strong stakeholder partnerships.

Required Skills:

• Water Infrastructure Engineering: Deep understanding of water and wastewater treatment, dams, asset management, major conveyance, and other relevant civil infrastructure domains.
• Design Management: Expertise in overseeing and directing the design process for complex engineering projects.
• Project Delivery: Proven ability to manage projects from inception to completion, ensuring adherence to scope, schedule, and budget.
• Leadership & Team Coordination: Demonstrated capability to lead, motivate, and coordinate multidisciplinary engineering teams.
• Client Relationship Management: Strong skills in building and maintaining effective relationships with clients, understanding their needs, and managing expectations.
• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication abilities, including high-quality technical and non-technical report writing.
• Budget Management: Proficient in managing project budgets and financial performance.
• Quality Assurance: Commitment to delivering high-quality engineering designs and project outcomes.
• Collaboration: Ability to work effectively with internal and external stakeholders across various disciplines and locations.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in industrial, mining, or defence sector infrastructure projects.
• Familiarity with sustainable engineering practices and outcomes.
• Advanced technical report writing and presentation skills.
• Experience with project resourcing and business development initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: While AECOM states "if you don’t tick all the boxes you could still be a perfect fit," the emphasis on 10+ years of experience and a proven track record in delivering large projects suggests a highly experienced candidate is sought. The "relevant tertiary qualifications" implies a formal engineering degree is strongly preferred, and specific experience within water infrastructure is critical.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Delivery Case Studies: Showcase 2-3 significant water infrastructure projects where you held a design management or lead engineering role. Focus on projects delivered on time, within budget, and to high-quality standards.
• Design Process Documentation: Examples of how you have managed or contributed to the design process, including scope definition, design reviews, and quality assurance protocols.
• Client Engagement Examples: Evidence of successful client relationship management, stakeholder engagement, and communication strategies employed on past projects.
• Team Leadership & Collaboration: Demonstrations of how you have led and coordinated multidisciplinary teams, managed conflicts, and fostered a collaborative environment.
• Risk Management & Mitigation: Documentation of how you have identified, assessed, and mitigated design or project delivery risks.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates may be asked to discuss their approach to:
  • Workflow design and optimization for engineering projects.
  • Implementing quality assurance and control measures throughout the design lifecycle.
  • Managing design changes and ensuring effective communication with all stakeholders.
  • Utilizing project management tools and methodologies (e.g., Agile, Waterfall) relevant to design delivery.
  • Fostering a culture of continuous improvement within project teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal portfolio may not be explicitly requested in the initial application, candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience and provide examples that align with these requirements during the interview process. Demonstrating a structured approach to design management, client engagement, and team leadership will be crucial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for a Design Manager with 10+ years of experience in Engineering/Water Infrastructure in Brisbane, Australia, the estimated annual salary range is AUD $150,000 - $200,000. This can vary based on the candidate's specific experience, qualifications, and the exact scope of responsibilities.

Benefits:

• Flexible Work Arrangements: Including alternative start/finish times, part-time, job-sharing, and hybrid work options to promote work-life balance.
• Additional Annual Leave: Opportunity to purchase up to 6 weeks of additional annual leave per year.
• Volunteer and Representation Leave: Paid leave for volunteering or representing AECOM.
• Flex Public Holidays: Ability to swap public holidays for others that better suit personal needs.
• Global Well-being Program: Access to a robust program supporting employee health and well-being.
• Career Development: Opportunities for professional growth, learning, and advancement within a global organization.
• Inclusive Culture: Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours, with flexibility offered through various work arrangements. The AI-derived figure of 40 hours per week is typical for a full-time role in Australia.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on publicly available data for similar roles in Brisbane, Australia, considering the experience level and industry. AECOM's benefits package is comprehensive, with a strong emphasis on work-life balance and employee well-being, which is a significant draw for experienced professionals.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Infrastructure Consulting / Engineering Services Company Size: Large (AECOM is a Fortune 500 company with over 16,000 employees globally) Founded: 1910 (AECOM has a long-standing history in engineering and construction).

Team Structure:

• The role is within the ANZ Water business, which comprises approximately 600 experts in Australia and New Zealand, and 6,000 globally.
• The Design Manager will collaborate with a diverse team of civil, mechanical, electrical, and process engineers.
• The reporting structure is likely to involve reporting to a Director or General Manager within the Water Infrastructure group.
• Cross-functional collaboration is a key aspect, working with interstate and international offices, as well as other business groups within AECOM.

Methodology:

• AECOM emphasizes a data-driven approach, leveraging technical and digital expertise to solve complex challenges.
• The company is committed to delivering sustainable outcomes and a better world.
• Collaboration and a culture of equity, diversity, and inclusion are paramount.
• Project delivery methodologies will likely involve a combination of traditional and agile approaches, tailored to project needs.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's scale and global presence provide immense opportunities for collaboration and exposure to a wide range of projects and expertise. The company's focus on sustainability and its Fortune 500 status indicate a stable and reputable employer committed to innovation and social responsibility. The "Everyone belongs at AECOM" ethos suggests an inclusive and supportive work environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior Management / Lead Technical Role This role represents a significant step in a career in water infrastructure engineering and design management. It requires a blend of deep technical expertise, proven leadership capabilities, and strong commercial acumen. The Design Manager is responsible for the ultimate technical and delivery decisions on projects, indicating a high level of trust and responsibility.

Reporting Structure:

• The Design Manager will likely report to a senior leader within the Water Infrastructure business unit, such as a Technical Director or General Manager.
• They will be responsible for managing and mentoring project delivery teams, which may include junior engineers, designers, and project coordinators.
• Close collaboration with other senior leaders across ANZ and globally is expected.

Operations Impact:

• The Design Manager has a direct impact on AECOM's ability to secure and successfully deliver major water infrastructure projects, contributing significantly to the company's revenue and reputation.
• Their leadership ensures projects meet client needs, deliver sustainable outcomes, and adhere to AECOM's high standards of quality and safety.
• By guiding project teams effectively, they influence project profitability and client satisfaction, which are critical for repeat business and long-term growth.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to progress into more senior leadership roles, such as Technical Director, Business Unit Manager, or General Manager within the Water division.
• Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific areas of water infrastructure (e.g., advanced water treatment technologies, large-scale dam design, complex conveyance systems).
• Global Mobility: Access to international projects and opportunities within AECOM's global network.
• Business Development: Involvement in client engagement, proposal development, and strategic planning, contributing to business growth.
• Mentorship: Opportunity to mentor junior engineers and contribute to the development of the next generation of water infrastructure professionals.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career progression within a leading global infrastructure consultancy. The emphasis on "secure 10 year pipeline of work" suggests stability and ample opportunities for growth and specialization within the water sector.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid Work Model AECOM offers a hybrid work model, allowing employees to balance working from an AECOM office, a remote location, or a client site. This reflects a modern approach to work, promoting flexibility and autonomy.

Office Location(s):

• The role is flexible and can be based in any of AECOM's offices across Australia, including:
  • Gold Coast, Queensland
  • Sunshine Coast, Queensland
  • Brisbane, Queensland
  • Sydney, New South Wales
  • Melbourne, Victoria
  • Perth, Western Australia

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: AECOM offices are designed to foster collaboration, with spaces for team meetings, design reviews, and informal discussions.
• Technology & Tools: Employees will have access to industry-leading software and technology required for design, project management, and communication. This includes advanced engineering design tools and digital platforms.
• Team Interaction: While hybrid, the role encourages regular interaction with project teams, discipline leads, and management, both virtually and in person when required.

Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time hours are expected, with flexibility in start and finish times. The hybrid model allows for a structured yet adaptable work schedule to accommodate project demands and personal needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work arrangement and multiple office locations offer significant flexibility. Candidates should clarify expectations regarding in-office days and team collaboration norms with the hiring manager during the interview process.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Application Screening: Review of CV and cover letter against core requirements. Candidates are encouraged to highlight their experience in water infrastructure, design management, project delivery, and client relations.
2. Initial Interview (Phone/Video): A discussion with a hiring manager or HR representative to assess overall fit, experience, and understanding of the role. Focus on high-level project experience and career aspirations.
3. Technical Interview/Panel Interview: In-depth discussion with senior members of the Water Infrastructure team. This stage will likely involve:
   • Project Deep Dive: Detailed questions about specific projects from your CV, focusing on your role, challenges faced, solutions implemented, and outcomes achieved.
   • Technical Scenarios: Hypothetical situations related to design management, team leadership, client issues, or project delivery challenges.
   • Process & Methodology Discussion: Questions about your approach to design management, quality assurance, risk mitigation, and team collaboration.
4. Final Interview/Presentation (Potentially): A final conversation with a senior leader, which may include a presentation of a past project or a response to a case study, demonstrating your strategic thinking and communication skills.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Select Projects: Choose 2-3 high-impact water infrastructure projects that best demonstrate your design management capabilities, leadership, and successful project delivery.
• Structure Your Case Studies: For each project, clearly articulate:
  • The Project Context and Client Objectives
  • Your Specific Role and Responsibilities
  • Key Design Challenges and Technical Solutions
  • Your Leadership Approach and Team Management Strategy
  • Project Outcomes (mentioning adherence to quality, time, and budget, and any sustainability achievements)
  • Lessons Learned
• Quantify Achievements: Where possible, use metrics to demonstrate impact (e.g., project value, cost savings, schedule improvements, efficiency gains).
• Highlight Client Management: Include examples of how you managed client relationships, resolved issues, and ensured client satisfaction.
• Prepare for Technical Questions: Be ready to discuss specific technical aspects of water infrastructure design and management.

Challenge Preparation:

• Anticipate Case Studies: Be prepared for potential case study questions that require you to outline your approach to a complex design or project management challenge.
• Focus on Process: Emphasize your structured approach to problem-solving, decision-making, and execution.
• Demonstrate Leadership: Practice articulating how you would lead a team through a difficult situation, manage conflicting priorities, or ensure quality standards are met.
• Understand AECOM's Values: Research AECOM's commitment to sustainability, diversity, and inclusion, and be ready to align your responses with these values.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the senior nature of this role, expect a rigorous interview process that probes deep into your technical expertise, leadership style, and project delivery track record. A strong understanding of AECOM's business and values will be advantageous.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency with industry-standard CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, Civil 3D) for design review and oversight.
• BIM Software: Familiarity with Building Information Modeling (BIM) platforms and workflows (e.g., Revit) is likely beneficial for integrated design delivery.
• Project Management Software: Experience with tools for project planning, scheduling, and tracking (e.g., Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Asana, Monday.com).
• Collaboration Platforms: Proficiency with tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for virtual communication and team collaboration.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret and leverage data from project management systems, design tools, and financial reports.
• Reporting Tools: Experience in generating project status reports, design review summaries, and client-facing documentation.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: While not directly a sales role, understanding how CRM data influences project needs and client engagement is beneficial.
• Workflow Automation: Familiarity with how automation can streamline design processes or project management tasks.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific tools aren't listed, experience with common engineering design software, project management platforms, and collaboration tools is expected for a Design Manager role at a firm like AECOM. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their familiarity with digital tools that enhance design efficiency and project delivery.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity: Upholding ethical standards in all dealings, from design decisions to client interactions.
• Pioneering Mindset: Embracing innovation, new technologies, and forward-thinking solutions in water infrastructure.
• Entrepreneurial Spirit: Taking ownership, driving initiatives, and seeking opportunities for improvement and growth.
• Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI): Fostering a safe, respectful, and inclusive workplace where all individuals feel valued and can contribute their unique talents.
• Sustainability: A strong commitment to developing environmentally responsible and socially beneficial infrastructure solutions.
• Excellence: Striving for the highest standards of technical quality, project delivery, and client service.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: AECOM emphasizes working across disciplines (civil, mechanical, electrical, process) and with various business units to deliver holistic solutions.
• Open Communication: Encouraging transparent and honest communication among team members and with stakeholders.
• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting a culture where expertise is shared, and lessons learned are disseminated to benefit future projects.
• Client-Centric Approach: Collaborating closely with clients to understand their needs and deliver solutions that exceed expectations.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's stated values are central to its identity. Candidates should demonstrate how their personal values and working style align with these principles, particularly regarding EDI and sustainability, as these are increasingly important in the infrastructure sector.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Complex Stakeholder Needs: Balancing the requirements of diverse clients, internal teams, regulatory bodies, and community interests on large-scale projects.
• Navigating Technical Complexity: Overseeing the design of intricate water systems that require deep technical understanding and problem-solving.
• Driving Innovation in a Traditional Sector: Introducing new technologies and sustainable practices in a sector that can sometimes be slow to adopt change.
• Ensuring Consistent Quality Across Teams and Locations: Maintaining high design and project delivery standards across geographically dispersed teams and varying project scopes.
• Adapting to Evolving Regulations and Environmental Standards: Staying abreast of and implementing changes in environmental legislation and sustainability requirements.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in advanced water treatment, hydraulic modeling, dam safety, or other specialized areas through internal training and external courses.
• Leadership Training: Access to AECOM's leadership development programs to enhance management, strategic thinking, and executive presence.
• Industry Conferences and Forums: Opportunities to attend and present at leading water industry events, networking with peers and staying current with trends.
• Mentorship Programs: Benefit from or provide mentorship to experienced professionals, fostering career growth and knowledge transfer.
• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Gain experience working on projects that integrate water infrastructure with other sectors like transportation, buildings, or energy.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for senior roles in large engineering consultancies. AECOM's commitment to growth and development suggests that overcoming these challenges will be supported by ample learning resources and career advancement pathways.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Strategy: "Describe your approach to developing a comprehensive design strategy for a major water infrastructure project. How do you ensure it aligns with client objectives and sustainability goals?"
  • Preparation: Focus on phases of design, stakeholder integration, risk assessment, and incorporating innovative/sustainable solutions from the outset.
• Team Leadership: "How do you lead and motivate a diverse team of engineers and designers to achieve project milestones, especially under pressure?"
  • Preparation: Discuss your leadership style, communication techniques, conflict resolution strategies, and how you foster accountability and collaboration.
• Problem-Solving: "Walk us through a time you encountered a significant technical or project delivery challenge on a water infrastructure project. How did you diagnose the issue, develop a solution, and what was the outcome?"
  • Preparation: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to detail a specific, impactful example. Quantify the results where possible.

Company & Culture Questions:

• AECOM Values: "How do your professional values align with AECOM's commitment to sustainability, equity, diversity, and inclusion?"
  • Preparation: Research AECOM's initiatives in these areas and prepare specific examples of how you've championed these principles in your career.
• Collaboration: "Describe your experience working collaboratively with different departments or external partners on complex projects. What strategies do you use to ensure effective cross-functional communication?"
  • Preparation: Highlight examples of successful collaboration, emphasizing your role in facilitating communication and achieving shared goals.
• Impact Measurement: "How do you measure the success of your design management efforts beyond just project completion? What KPIs do you typically focus on?"
  • Preparation: Discuss metrics related to client satisfaction, quality of design, budget adherence, schedule performance, team development, and sustainability impact.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Focus on Impact: When presenting your portfolio, don't just list projects. Tell a compelling story about your contributions and the positive impact you made.
• Highlight Key Responsibilities: Clearly articulate your role in design decision-making, team leadership, client management, and project oversight.
• Showcase Problem-Solving: Emphasize challenges you faced and how your strategic thinking and technical expertise led to successful resolutions.
• Demonstrate Leadership: Use examples to illustrate your ability to guide teams, foster collaboration, and drive project success.
• Quantify Results: Whenever possible, use data and metrics to support your claims about project performance and impact.
• Be Prepared for Q&A: Anticipate questions about your methodologies, decision-making processes, and any potential weaknesses in your presented projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: Expect interview questions that probe your leadership style, strategic thinking, and ability to manage complex projects within a large corporate environment. Demonstrating alignment with AECOM's values and a clear understanding of the water infrastructure sector will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager – Water Infrastructure position:

• Submit Your Application: Apply through the AECOM careers portal via the provided job link. Ensure your CV and any supporting documents are up-to-date.
• Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume to highlight your experience in water infrastructure engineering, design management, large project delivery, client relationship management, and team leadership. Use keywords from the job description.
• Prepare Your Portfolio Examples: Gather specific examples and case studies that showcase your successful project deliveries, design management processes, and leadership capabilities. Be ready to discuss these in detail during interviews.
• Research AECOM: Understand AECOM's mission, values, recent projects, and its position in the infrastructure consulting market, particularly its work in the water sector.
• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare answers to common interview questions, focusing on behavioral examples and your strategic approach to design management and project delivery. Practice articulating your experience clearly and concisely.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description provides a comprehensive overview based on the provided data and industry standards. Candidates are strongly advised to review the original job posting and AECOM's company website for the most current and detailed information. All application and interview processes should be confirmed directly with AECOM.