Infrastructure Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Infrastructure Design Manager Company: Parsons Corporation Location: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates Job Type: Full-Time Category: Infrastructure Design & Engineering Management Date Posted: January 13, 2026 Experience Level: 15+ Years Relevant Experience Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage all aspects of infrastructure design services for complex projects, ensuring adherence to technical standards and client objectives.
• Drive the design process from conceptualization through to tender stage, coordinating effectively with internal technical teams and external stakeholders.
• Implement and optimize delivery tools, systems, processes, and procedures to enhance project execution and organizational performance across the region.
• Provide expert technical guidance on design challenges, constructability, and program alignment, ensuring solutions are efficient, economical, and visionary.
• Manage design resources, timelines, and budgets, while actively monitoring design trends and incorporating innovative technologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a senior-level position requiring extensive experience in infrastructure design and project management, specifically within the MENA region. The emphasis on "delivery tools, systems, processes, and procedures" indicates a strong focus on operational efficiency and standardization within the project management office (PMO) and project management consultancy (PMC) framework.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Oversee and lead multi-disciplinary design teams in the development of comprehensive infrastructure design services.
• Manage the end-to-end design lifecycle, from initial concept development to the final tender documentation phase.
• Collaborate with the Technical Excellence team to ensure all designs align with established company standards and industry best practices.
• Develop detailed design briefs, establish realistic timelines, and monitor progress against these schedules.
• Continuously evaluate and integrate emerging design trends and technologies to enhance project outcomes and competitive advantage.
• Ensure all infrastructure design projects are delivered on time and within allocated budgetary constraints.
• Prepare and present design proposals, progress updates, and final reports to clients and senior management.
• Effectively manage design resources, including personnel, software licenses, and project assets.
• Develop and execute strategic design plans that align with overall program vision and client requirements.
• Analyze customer feedback and market trends to iteratively improve designs and ensure client satisfaction.
• Foster strong collaborative relationships with project teams, consultants, and stakeholders throughout the design and delivery phases.
• Proactively manage change orders and identify/mitigate project risks to safeguard project objectives.
• Develop comprehensive project design delivery programs and detailed resource allocation plans.
• Conduct rigorous internal design coordination meetings to ensure quality management and control across all disciplines.
• Review and approve developed design reports, specifications, drawings, and final deliverable documents.
• Manage interdisciplinary interfaces to ensure seamless coordination among all involved design and engineering teams.
• Prepare weekly and monthly progress reports for Project Directors and clients, detailing key achievements, challenges, and next steps.
• Support business development efforts by contributing to project bidding processes and resource planning for new opportunities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical leadership, project management, and operational oversight. The emphasis on "quality management and control," "change management," and "risk management" underscores the critical operational aspects of this role, ensuring project success through structured processes.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) or Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Civil Engineering from an accredited university.
• Possession of relevant professional certifications is highly desirable.

Experience:

• Minimum of 15 years of progressive, relevant experience in roads and infrastructure design.
• Proven track record in managing infrastructure projects within a consulting engineering environment.
• Extensive experience in Design Management and Project Management of master plans and mixed-use developments, particularly within the MENA region.

Required Skills:

• Civil Engineering Expertise: Deep understanding of civil engineering principles and their application to large-scale infrastructure projects.
• Design Management: Proven ability to lead and manage complex design processes from inception to completion.
• Project Management: Strong capabilities in planning, executing, and closing projects, with a focus on scope, time, and budget.
• Infrastructure Design: Comprehensive knowledge of roads, utilities, drainage, and other essential infrastructure components.
• Communication Skills: Exceptional verbal and written communication, including professional report writing and compelling presentation skills.
• Microsoft Office Suite: Advanced proficiency in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Microsoft Project for planning and reporting.
• Technical Software Proficiency:
  • Knowledge of Primavera for project scheduling and resource management.
  • Expertise in Autodesk Civil 3D for detailed design and drafting.
  • Familiarity with Esri GIS for spatial analysis and data management.
  • Knowledge of Bentley software suite relevant to infrastructure design.
• Leadership & Team Management: Demonstrated ability to lead multi-disciplinary teams and effectively manage client relationships.
• Organizational Skills: Highly organized, self-motivated, and capable of managing multiple priorities effectively.
• BIM Knowledge: Familiarity with Building Information Modeling (BIM) principles and applications for roads and infrastructure projects.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with advanced analytics and reporting tools for design performance monitoring.
• Familiarity with contract administration and procurement processes related to design services.
• Knowledge of sustainable design practices and environmental regulations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The diverse software requirements (Autodesk, Esri, Bentley, Primavera) indicate a need for a technically adept manager who can oversee and integrate various design and project management tools. The emphasis on MENA region experience and client-facing roles suggests strong stakeholder management and cultural awareness are crucial.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Management Case Studies: Showcase a minimum of 3-5 significant infrastructure projects managed from concept to tender, detailing scope, challenges, solutions, and outcomes.
• Process Optimization Examples: Include documentation or descriptions of implemented design processes, workflow improvements, or system enhancements that led to measurable efficiency gains or cost savings.
• System Implementation Insights: Evidence of experience in setting up or refining design delivery tools, systems, or procedures, detailing the implementation strategy and impact.
• Client Presentation Materials: Examples of client-facing presentations, reports, or design reviews that demonstrate clear communication of technical information and strategic recommendations.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Demonstrate experience in mapping, analyzing, and optimizing design workflows to improve efficiency, reduce errors, and enhance collaboration.
• Implementation & Automation Methods: Provide examples of how new design systems, tools, or automation techniques were introduced and integrated into existing project delivery frameworks.
• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Show how design project performance is tracked, analyzed, and reported, using key performance indicators (KPIs) related to time, cost, quality, and client satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio should emphasize not just the technical design output but also the managerial and operational processes used to achieve it. Candidates should be prepared to articulate the "how" behind their successes, focusing on the systems and processes they managed or improved.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: The estimated annual salary for an Infrastructure Design Manager with 15+ years of experience in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, typically ranges from AED 350,000 to AED 550,000. This range can vary based on specific qualifications, the complexity of projects managed, and the overall compensation package offered by Parsons Corporation.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage for employees and dependents.
• Generous paid time off, including annual leave and public holidays.
• Retirement savings plan or end-of-service benefits as per UAE labor law.
• Professional development opportunities, including training, certifications, and conference attendance.
• Relocation assistance may be provided for eligible candidates.
• Potential for performance-based bonuses and incentives.
• Access to employee assistance programs.
• Opportunities for career advancement within a global organization.

Working Hours:

• Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday.
• Specific working hours may be subject to project requirements and client needs, potentially involving extended hours or weekend work during critical project phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimates are based on industry benchmarks for senior engineering management roles in Abu Dhabi, considering the experience level and the consulting industry. Benefits are standard for multinational corporations operating in the UAE.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering, Construction, and Technology Solutions Parsons Corporation is a global leader in providing innovative engineering, construction, technical, and management solutions in the infrastructure, defense, and technology markets. Their work impacts communities worldwide, focusing on smart cities, transportation, environmental solutions, and national security. For operations professionals, this means a dynamic environment with complex projects, a strong emphasis on technical excellence, and a drive for innovation.

Company Size: Large Enterprise (10,000+ employees) As a large, publicly traded company, Parsons offers stability, extensive resources, and a structured career path. For operations roles, this translates to well-defined processes, access to advanced technologies, and opportunities for specialization. Collaboration often occurs across large, geographically dispersed teams.

Founded: 1944 With a long history spanning over eight decades, Parsons has established a strong reputation for reliability and innovation. This longevity suggests a stable corporate structure and a deep well of experience to draw upon, influencing its operational methodologies and commitment to long-term project success.

Team Structure:

• Operations Team Specialization: The operations within this role will likely be part of a regional engineering or project management division, focusing on the delivery of infrastructure projects. This team will comprise various engineering disciplines (Civil, Structural, MEP, etc.), project managers, design coordinators, and support staff.
• Reporting Structure: The Infrastructure Design Manager will report to a senior leadership position, such as a Project Director or Regional Engineering Manager. They will, in turn, lead a team of discipline engineers and design coordinators.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Expect extensive collaboration with project controls, procurement, construction management, quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC), and client representatives. The role requires strong interface management across all project phases.

Methodology:

• Data Analysis & Insights: Emphasis on data-driven decision-making for design optimization, risk assessment, and performance monitoring. Utilization of project management software and reporting tools to track KPIs.
• Workflow Planning & Optimization: Structured approach to defining, documenting, and refining design and project delivery processes to enhance efficiency and quality.
• Automation & Efficiency Practices: Adoption of technologies like BIM and advanced software tools to automate repetitive tasks, improve accuracy, and streamline project workflows.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's scale and industry suggest a robust operational framework. Professionals in operations roles at Parsons can expect to work within established systems while contributing to their continuous improvement. The focus on "smart cities" and "infrastructure" implies a forward-thinking approach to design and project delivery.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior Management / Principal Level This role represents a senior position within the engineering and project delivery operations. It demands significant technical expertise, leadership acumen, and a proven track record of managing complex, large-scale infrastructure projects. The scope of responsibility extends to strategic planning, team leadership, client management, and ensuring the operational success of design delivery.

Reporting Structure: The Infrastructure Design Manager typically reports to a Project Director, Program Manager, or a senior executive responsible for the engineering and design function within a region or a major project. They will lead a team of discipline engineers, design coordinators, and potentially junior design managers. This structure facilitates clear decision-making hierarchies and efficient communication channels.

Operations Impact: The operations managed by this role have a direct and significant impact on project profitability, client satisfaction, and the successful delivery of critical infrastructure. Efficient design processes, timely delivery, and adherence to budget directly influence Parsons' reputation and financial performance. The quality of design also impacts the long-term viability and functionality of the infrastructure assets being built.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Potential to move into roles such as Project Director, Program Manager, or Head of Engineering for larger programs or regions. This involves broader responsibility for project lifecycles, client relationships, and business development.
• Specialization & Leadership: Opportunity to become a subject matter expert (SME) in specific infrastructure domains (e.g., transportation, water, smart cities) or to lead specialized technical excellence teams.
• Global Mobility: As a global firm, there may be opportunities to transfer to other international offices or work on projects in different geographical regions, broadening experience and exposure.
• Mentorship & Training: Opportunities to mentor junior engineers and managers, contributing to the development of future talent within Parsons, and potentially leading training initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth trajectory for this role is clearly defined, moving from design management to broader project and program leadership. The emphasis on technical expertise and operational efficiency within Parsons' global framework provides a strong foundation for career advancement.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Corporate Office Environment The role is based in Parsons' Abu Dhabi office, which serves as a regional headquarters. This suggests a professional, well-equipped, and potentially collaborative workspace designed to support project teams.

Office Location(s): The primary office location is in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE). This location is strategic for managing projects within the MENA region. Specific office addresses would be provided upon inquiry or during the interview process.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The office is expected to foster a collaborative atmosphere where design teams, project managers, and other functional groups can interact effectively. Dedicated meeting rooms, project war rooms, and open-plan areas likely facilitate this.
• Operations Tools & Technology: Employees will have access to a robust IT infrastructure, including high-performance workstations, reliable network connectivity, and the full suite of required design and project management software (Autodesk, Bentley, Primavera, MS Office, etc.).
• Team Interaction: Regular team meetings, design reviews, and cross-functional workshops are standard. The physical proximity of teams in the Abu Dhabi office will encourage direct communication and problem-solving.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is typically Monday to Friday, from approximately 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with a standard 40-hour work week. However, given the demands of managing large infrastructure projects, flexibility may be required, including occasional overtime or weekend work, especially during critical project milestones or client deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The Abu Dhabi office environment is likely set up to support complex project delivery, emphasizing collaboration and access to necessary technology. The expectation of flexibility aligns with the demands of international project management.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Initial Screening (HR): A preliminary review of your resume and qualifications to ensure basic eligibility and fit with the role's requirements.
2. Technical Interview (Hiring Manager/Senior Engineer): This stage will focus on your technical expertise in civil engineering, infrastructure design, and your experience managing design processes. Expect in-depth questions about past projects, design methodologies, and problem-solving approaches.
3. Portfolio Review & Presentation: You will likely be asked to present a selection of your work, detailing 1-2 key infrastructure projects. This is where you demonstrate your design management capabilities, process improvements, and ability to articulate complex technical information clearly.
4. Behavioral & Cultural Fit Interview: This interview assesses your leadership style, team management skills, communication abilities, and how well you align with Parsons' company values and culture. Questions will focus on your experience leading teams, managing stakeholders, and handling challenging situations.
5. Final Interview (Senior Leadership): Potentially a final discussion with a senior executive or Project Director to confirm fit and discuss overall strategic alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each project presented, clearly outline the project's objective, your role and responsibilities, the design challenges faced, the solutions implemented (highlighting process improvements), the key technologies used, and the quantifiable outcomes (e.g., time/cost savings, efficiency gains).
• Focus on Process & Management: While technical design is crucial, emphasize your management of the design process, your strategies for coordination, quality control, risk mitigation, and team leadership.
• Quantify Impact: Use data and metrics wherever possible to demonstrate the impact of your work. For example, "Implemented a new BIM coordination process that reduced clashes by 20% and accelerated tender documentation by 2 weeks."
• Tailor to the Role: Highlight experience relevant to roads, infrastructure, master plans, and mixed-use developments in the MENA region. Showcase your familiarity with the required software (Civil 3D, Primavera, GIS, BIM).
• Prepare for Q&A: Anticipate questions about your decision-making process, how you handle disagreements within a team, and your strategies for managing difficult stakeholders.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Problem Scenarios: Be prepared for hypothetical scenarios where you might need to outline a design approach for a specific infrastructure challenge, considering constraints like budget, timeline, and environmental factors.
• Process Improvement Exercises: You might be asked to identify potential inefficiencies in a given design process and propose solutions.
• Stakeholder Management: Prepare responses on how you would manage communication and expectations with various stakeholders (clients, contractors, authorities, internal teams).

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process emphasizes a combination of technical competence, managerial experience, and presentation skills. A well-prepared portfolio that showcases operational excellence in design management is critical for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Autodesk Civil 3D: Core software for 2D drafting, 3D modeling, and documentation for civil infrastructure projects. Proficiency is essential for managing design outputs.
• Bentley Software Suite: This could include various products like OpenRoads, MicroStation, or ProjectWise, depending on the specific project needs. Familiarity with Bentley's platform is a strong advantage.
• Autodesk BIM: Knowledge of Building Information Modeling principles and how they apply to infrastructure design, potentially using tools like Autodesk Revit or Navisworks for coordination and clash detection.
• Esri GIS: Geographic Information System software for spatial analysis, data visualization, and site selection, crucial for understanding project context and environmental factors.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Microsoft Project / Primavera P6: Essential for project scheduling, resource leveling, and tracking progress against timelines. Primavera P6 is often preferred for large, complex projects.
• Microsoft Excel: For data analysis, financial modeling, creating custom reports, and managing project data.
• Power BI / Tableau (Potentially): While not explicitly mentioned, proficiency in data visualization tools can be advantageous for creating impactful reports and dashboards for stakeholders.

CRM & Automation:

• ProjectWise (Bentley): A common platform for document management, workflow automation, and collaboration in large engineering projects.
• Internal Parsons Systems: Parsons likely utilizes proprietary or integrated systems for project management, client relationship management (CRM), and financial tracking. Familiarity with large-scale enterprise systems is beneficial.
• Microsoft Office Suite: Comprehensive use of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams for daily operations, communication, and documentation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily focused on specialized engineering design software and robust project management tools. A manager must not only be proficient in using these tools but also understand how they integrate to support efficient design delivery and operational control.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity & Ethics: Upholding the highest standards of professional conduct and ethical decision-making in all project dealings.
• Excellence & Innovation: A commitment to delivering high-quality, innovative solutions that exceed client expectations and push industry boundaries.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive environment where diverse teams work together effectively, sharing knowledge and expertise to achieve common goals.
• Safety & Sustainability: Prioritizing the safety of personnel and the public, and integrating sustainable design practices to minimize environmental impact.
• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and meeting client needs, building strong, long-term relationships based on trust and performance.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The operations team actively collaborates with various departments, including procurement, construction, quality, and finance, to ensure seamless project execution. Regular interdisciplinary meetings and shared platforms facilitate this integration.
• Process Review Culture: An open attitude towards reviewing and refining existing processes to identify areas for improvement, encouraging feedback from all team members.
• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise through internal forums, training sessions, and project debriefs. The goal is continuous learning and operational enhancement.

📝 Enhancement Note: Parsons' values emphasize professional integrity, innovation, and strong teamwork. Operations professionals are expected to embody these values, contributing to a culture of excellence and client satisfaction.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Diverse Stakeholder Expectations: Balancing the needs and demands of clients, regulatory bodies, contractors, and internal teams on complex infrastructure projects.
• Navigating Complex Regulatory Environments: Ensuring compliance with local UAE regulations, international standards, and specific client requirements, which can be intricate and frequently updated.
• Technical Complexity & Innovation: Staying abreast of rapidly evolving design technologies and engineering methodologies while applying them to large-scale, often novel, infrastructure projects.
• Resource Management & Optimization: Effectively allocating and managing design resources (personnel, budget, time) across multiple projects to ensure timely and cost-effective delivery.
• Geopolitical & Economic Factors: Adapting design and delivery strategies to potential shifts in regional economic conditions or geopolitical landscapes that might impact project timelines or scope.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Access to specialized training programs on new engineering software, BIM technologies, and advanced design techniques.
• Project Management Certifications: Support for obtaining or maintaining certifications such as PMP (Project Management Professional) or relevant engineering accreditations.
• Leadership Development Programs: Opportunities to participate in leadership training, executive coaching, and mentorship programs designed to enhance management and strategic planning skills.
• Industry Conferences & Seminars: Participation in major industry events to stay current with trends, network with peers, and gain insights into best practices in infrastructure design and project delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to large-scale international engineering projects. Growth opportunities are structured to build upon technical expertise and leadership capabilities, preparing individuals for senior roles within the organization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you managed a complex infrastructure design project facing significant technical challenges. How did you approach problem-solving, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on your process, decision-making, and technical leadership.)
• "How do you ensure effective communication and collaboration between multi-disciplinary design teams and external stakeholders like clients and contractors?" (Highlight your communication strategies, interface management, and stakeholder engagement.)
• "Walk me through your process for developing and implementing design strategies and delivery programs for large-scale infrastructure projects." (Emphasize your planning, resource allocation, and operational control methods.)
• "How do you stay current with design trends and new technologies, and how have you incorporated them into your projects?" (Showcase your commitment to innovation and continuous learning.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Parsons Corporation and our work in the MENA region?" (Demonstrate research into the company's projects, values, and market presence.)
• "How do you foster a culture of quality and accountability within a design team?" (Align your response with Parsons' values of excellence and integrity.)
• "Describe your experience leading diverse teams and managing client relationships in a consulting environment." (Focus on your leadership style and ability to build trust.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select High-Impact Projects: Choose 1-2 projects that best exemplify your capabilities in infrastructure design management within the MENA region.
• Structure Your Narrative: Use a STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) or similar method to clearly articulate your role, the challenges, your actions, and the positive outcomes.
• Quantify Achievements: Present concrete data on cost savings, time efficiencies, quality improvements, or risk mitigation achieved through your management.
• Showcase Technical Proficiency: Be ready to discuss specific design challenges, software solutions (Civil 3D, BIM, GIS), and engineering principles applied.
• Highlight Process Improvements: Detail any specific processes you implemented or optimized to enhance design delivery, coordination, or quality control.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on articulating your experience through concrete examples, demonstrating both technical depth and strong operational management skills. Tailoring your responses to Parsons' stated values and project portfolio is key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the Parsons Corporation careers portal via the provided link.
• Tailor Your Resume: Ensure your resume highlights your 15+ years of relevant experience in roads and infrastructure design, specifically mentioning your MENA region project management experience and proficiency with key software like Civil 3D, Primavera, and GIS. Use keywords from the job description.
• Prepare Your Portfolio: Gather case studies of your most impactful infrastructure design management projects. Focus on projects in the MENA region and include details on your role, challenges, solutions, and quantifiable results in terms of efficiency, cost, and quality. Be ready to present this information clearly and concisely.
• Research Parsons Corporation: Familiarize yourself with Parsons' recent projects in the UAE and the broader MENA region, their company values, and their strategic objectives, particularly in smart cities and infrastructure development.
• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare to answer technical, behavioral, and situational interview questions, focusing on your leadership, problem-solving, and design management expertise. Practice articulating your portfolio through presentations and answering potential questions about your experience and approach.

⚠️ 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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