MEP Design Manager | Building Engineering

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: MEP Design Manager | Building Engineering

Company: AECOM

Location: Madrid, Spain

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Building Engineering / MEP Design Management

Date Posted: April 24, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (5-10 years)

Remote Status: Hybrid (2-3 days/week in office)

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage multidisciplinary MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Public Health, Fire Protection, Telecom) engineering teams in the design and delivery of high-quality building and infrastructure projects.

• Act as the primary technical liaison between AECOM and international clients, ensuring client satisfaction and fostering strong, long-term relationships through effective communication and trusted partnership.

• Oversee the planning, scheduling, and execution of MEP design activities, ensuring project goals, technical excellence, and budget adherence are met throughout the project lifecycle.

• Drive the adoption and effective utilization of advanced technologies such as Building Information Modelling (BIM), energy modelling, and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to enhance design efficiency and project outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role of MEP Design Manager at AECOM's Building Engineering team in Madrid is positioned as a critical leadership function, bridging technical MEP expertise with project management and client relations. The emphasis on international clients and a global network suggests a need for adaptability, strong communication across cultures, and proficiency in complex, large-scale projects. The hybrid work model and flexible hours indicate a modern approach to work-life balance within a professional services environment.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor multidisciplinary MEP engineering teams, fostering a collaborative environment to deliver technically excellent and innovative building and infrastructure designs that meet client requirements and satisfaction.

• Review, approve, and ensure the technical integrity of all MEP engineering solutions, from conceptual design through to detailed construction documentation, aligning with AECOM's global standards and best practices.

• Serve as the key point of contact for clients, managing expectations, facilitating clear communication channels, and building robust, enduring relationships to secure repeat business and enhance AECOM's reputation.

• Proactively plan, schedule, and coordinate MEP project activities in close collaboration with Planning Engineers and other discipline leads (Architecture, Structural) to ensure timely and budget-compliant project delivery.

• Identify, assess, and manage project scope changes, providing robust technical justifications and supporting the Project Manager in change order processes to maintain project control and profitability.

• Champion the integration and effective use of advanced design tools and methodologies, including BIM, energy modelling, and CFD, to optimize design processes, improve coordination, and deliver sustainable, efficient building solutions.

• Continuously develop personal technical expertise and foster a culture of learning and professional development within the MEP team, staying abreast of industry trends and technological advancements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical leadership, project controls, and client management. The expectation to "deliver, review and approve engineering solutions" and "act as the key liaison between the client" implies a senior level of responsibility and decision-making authority. The focus on "world class methodologies and technologies" points towards an expectation of innovation and forward-thinking in design delivery.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's or Master's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, or related disciplines preferred)

Experience:

• Proven track record in developing conceptual installation designs through to completion, demonstrating expertise in MEP discipline coordination and direct client interaction for building and infrastructure projects.

• Substantial experience in Building Services design, encompassing mechanical, electrical, public health, and fire protection systems.

• Demonstrated success in collaborating with diverse design teams on national and international projects, understanding global project delivery dynamics.

Required Skills:

• Strong technical knowledge and practical application in electrical or mechanical engineering principles within the building services context.

• Proficiency in MEP discipline coordination, ensuring seamless integration of mechanical, electrical, and public health systems.

• Solid understanding of the interdependencies and requirements of other design disciplines (e.g., Architecture, Structural Engineering) in multidisciplinary projects.

• Excellent client relationship management skills, with a proven ability to build trust and maintain long-term partnerships.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with advanced design technologies such as Building Information Modelling (BIM) at a management or coordination level.

• Familiarity with energy modelling techniques and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) applications in building design.

• Project management certifications or demonstrable project management experience in leading engineering design projects.

• Knowledge of fire protection and telecom system design requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a strong foundation in core MEP engineering disciplines, coupled with significant project experience, particularly in coordination and client-facing roles. The bilingual requirement (English and Spanish) is critical given the international client base. The preference for construction experience and familiarity with advanced design tools like BIM suggests a candidate who can bridge design intent with practical execution and leverage modern technologies.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a history of successfully leading the design and coordination of complex MEP systems for building and infrastructure projects, showcasing a range of project types and scales.

• Provide case studies that illustrate your approach to MEP discipline coordination, highlighting how you ensured integration with architectural and structural designs.

• Showcase examples of client interaction and communication strategies, including how you managed expectations and resolved technical challenges to ensure client satisfaction.

Process Documentation:

• Detail your methodology for planning and scheduling MEP design activities, including how you collaborate with planning engineers and other disciplines.

• Illustrate your process for reviewing and approving engineering solutions, ensuring adherence to technical standards, regulatory requirements, and client specifications.

• Document your approach to identifying, assessing, and managing project changes, including the technical justification and communication protocols involved.

• Provide examples of how you have implemented or utilized advanced design tools and methodologies (e.g., BIM, energy modelling, CFD) to enhance design efficiency and outcomes in past projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role, a portfolio is expected to showcase leadership and project oversight rather than individual technical deliverables. The focus should be on problem-solving, coordination, client management, and process improvement. Demonstrating the application of modern design technologies and methodologies will be key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for MEP Design Managers with 5-10 years of experience in Madrid, Spain, the estimated salary range is €55,000 - €75,000 annually. This estimate considers the cost of living in Madrid, the demand for specialized engineering talent, and AECOM's position as a global leader in infrastructure consulting.

Benefits:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance: Comprehensive health coverage for employees and potentially dependents.

• Life Insurance and AD&D: Financial protection for your beneficiaries.

• Disability Benefits: Income protection in case of long-term illness or injury.

• Paid Time Off (PTO): Generous leave allowance for vacation, personal time, and sick days.

• Flexible Working Hours: Supports work-life balance by allowing adjustments to daily start and end times.

• Hybrid Working Model: Offers a blend of remote and in-office work (2-3 days/week in office), promoting flexibility and collaboration.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services for personal and professional challenges.

• Retirement Savings Plan: A plan to help employees save for their future financial security.

• Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP): Opportunity to purchase AECOM stock at a discounted rate.

• Service Recognition Awards: Acknowledgment of long-term commitment and contributions.

• Business Travel Insurance: Coverage for travel related to company business.

• Perks and Well-being Resources: Additional benefits focused on employee health, wellness, and lifestyle.

Working Hours: Standard full-time work week, likely around 40 hours, with flexible working hours available to support work-life balance. The hybrid model allows for a degree of autonomy in structuring the work week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on general market data for similar roles in Spain. Specific salary will depend on the candidate's experience, qualifications, and negotiation. The benefits package is extensive, reflecting AECOM's commitment to employee well-being and professional development. The hybrid model and flexible hours are significant advantages for work-life integration.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Infrastructure Consulting and Engineering. AECOM operates globally, providing professional services across transportation, buildings, water, energy, and environment sectors. This broad scope means the MEP Design Manager will interact with diverse project types and client needs, contributing to significant urban development and infrastructure projects.

Company Size: Global enterprise with over 50,000 employees worldwide. This large scale provides opportunities for international collaboration, access to vast resources, and diverse career paths.

Founded: AECOM was founded in 1910, boasting over a century of experience and a strong legacy in delivering complex infrastructure solutions. This long history signifies stability, deep expertise, and a proven track record of innovation and client trust.

Team Structure:

• The Building Engineering team in Spain is part of AECOM's global Buildings & Places (B&P) business line. The MEP Design Manager will lead a multidisciplinary MEP team, working closely with other discipline leads (Architecture, Structural) and the general Project Management/Design Management team.

• Reporting likely involves a direct report to a senior leadership role within the Building Engineering division or a Project Director, while also collaborating extensively with Project Managers and client representatives.

Methodology:

• AECOM emphasizes data-driven decision-making and technical excellence. The MEP team utilizes advanced methodologies for design, including BIM, energy modelling, and CFD, to ensure efficient, sustainable, and high-performance building solutions.

• Workflow planning and optimization are critical, particularly in coordinating complex MEP systems with other design disciplines and construction phases.

• Automation and efficiency are key drivers, with a focus on leveraging technology to streamline design processes, reduce errors, and improve project outcomes.

Company Website: https://aecom.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's global presence and reputation as a trusted infrastructure consultant provide a strong foundation for this role. The company culture likely emphasizes collaboration, technical excellence, and a commitment to solving complex global challenges. The Madrid office functions as part of a larger international network, offering opportunities to contribute to significant projects while benefiting from global expertise.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is a senior management position within the Building Engineering practice, specifically focused on MEP design leadership. It requires significant technical expertise, project management acumen, and client-facing skills. The scope involves leading teams, managing key client relationships, and ensuring the technical quality and successful delivery of complex projects.

Reporting Structure: The MEP Design Manager will likely report to a higher-level Director or Vice President within AECOM's Buildings & Places division in Spain or Europe. They will, in turn, manage a team of MEP engineers and coordinate extensively with Project Managers, Design Managers, and other discipline leads. This structure facilitates both technical oversight and strategic project execution.

Operations Impact: The MEP Design Manager plays a crucial role in shaping the technical direction and successful execution of building projects. Their ability to deliver high-quality, efficient, and coordinated MEP designs directly impacts project profitability, client satisfaction, AECOM's reputation, and the long-term performance and sustainability of the built environment. Their leadership influences team performance, technical innovation, and adherence to client expectations.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization & Leadership: Progression to senior leadership roles within the Buildings & Places business line, such as Technical Director, Head of MEP, or broader Design Management roles on larger, more complex international projects.

• Business Development: Opportunities to contribute to client acquisition, proposal development, and expanding AECOM's service offerings in the MEP and building engineering domain.

• Global Mobility: Potential to transfer to other AECOM offices worldwide, leveraging experience gained in Madrid on international projects and contributing to a global team.

• Cross-Disciplinary Expertise: Development of broader project management and design management skills, enabling a transition into more holistic project leadership roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear path for career advancement within AECOM's extensive global structure. The emphasis on client relationships and technical leadership positions the candidate for significant growth, both within specialized MEP engineering and broader project and business management.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: AECOM operates a hybrid work model, meaning the environment will be a mix of professional office space and remote work. The office will likely feature collaborative workspaces, meeting rooms equipped for presentations and client calls, and individual workstations.

Office Location(s): The primary location is Madrid, Spain, specifically at C/Alfonso XII. This central location offers good accessibility within the city.

Workspace Context:

• The office environment is designed to foster collaboration, with opportunities to interact with colleagues from various disciplines and project teams. This provides a dynamic setting for problem-solving and knowledge sharing.

• Access to AECOM's extensive digital infrastructure, software licenses (including BIM, design, and project management tools), and IT support will be standard.

• Regular opportunities for face-to-face interaction with team members, cross-disciplinary colleagues, and potentially clients, facilitating strong working relationships and efficient project coordination.

Work Schedule: A standard full-time work schedule, likely around 40 hours per week, is expected. However, the offering of flexible working hours and a hybrid model provides significant autonomy for employees to manage their schedules effectively, balancing project demands with personal commitments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the work environment is a key feature, offering flexibility while maintaining the benefits of in-office collaboration and access to company resources. The focus on collaborative spaces suggests an environment where teamwork and shared problem-solving are encouraged.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and cover letter by HR or a Talent Acquisition specialist to assess basic qualifications and experience. Be prepared to articulate your key achievements in MEP design management and client relations.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the hiring manager (likely a senior leader in Building Engineering) to delve deeper into your technical expertise, leadership style, project experience, and understanding of MEP design principles and project delivery. This is a crucial stage to showcase your ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and manage client expectations.

• Technical/Panel Interview: This may involve a panel of senior engineers or project managers. Expect questions on your approach to design coordination, problem-solving methodologies, and your experience with BIM, energy modelling, and other advanced tools. You may be asked to present a portfolio case study.

• Cultural Fit & Final Interview: A discussion to evaluate how you align with AECOM's values, team dynamics, and the company's collaborative approach. This might involve senior management or HR.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Leadership & Coordination: Select 2-3 significant projects where you played a key leadership or coordination role in MEP design. Highlight your responsibilities and impact, not just the project's technical details.

• Structure Case Studies: For each project, clearly outline: the challenge, your role and responsibilities, the solutions implemented (especially how you managed MEP coordination and client communication), the technologies used (BIM, CFD, etc.), and the successful outcomes (e.g., on-time delivery, client satisfaction, efficiency gains, sustainability achievements).

• Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use metrics to demonstrate impact. For example, "Reduced design clashes by X% through enhanced BIM coordination," or "Achieved Y% energy savings through optimized system design."

• Highlight Client Interaction: Showcase examples of how you managed client relationships, addressed concerns, and delivered on their expectations, demonstrating your client-facing capabilities.

• Prepare for Presentation: Be ready to walk through your portfolio, explaining your contributions clearly and concisely, and answering questions about your decision-making process.

Challenge Preparation:

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Be prepared for hypothetical scenarios related to MEP design challenges, team management issues, or client conflicts. Focus on demonstrating a structured, logical, and collaborative problem-solving approach.

• Technical Discussion: Refresh your knowledge of current MEP design standards, sustainable building practices, and the practical application of BIM and energy modelling in project delivery.

• Client Management Strategy: Think about how you would approach difficult client conversations, manage scope creep, and ensure alignment between technical delivery and client objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is likely multi-stage, involving technical assessment, leadership evaluation, and cultural fit. A well-prepared portfolio showcasing leadership, coordination, and client management skills is essential. The emphasis on both technical depth and soft skills (communication, leadership) is paramount.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• MEP Design Software: Proficiency with industry-standard CAD and BIM software such as Autodesk Revit (essential for BIM), AutoCAD MEP. Experience with specific mechanical (e.g., AutoCAD MEP, MagiCAD) and electrical (e.g., AutoCAD Electrical, DIALux) design tools is expected.

• BIM Coordination Software: Experience with platforms like Autodesk Navisworks for clash detection, model aggregation, and coordination reviews.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with tools like Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or AECOM's internal project management systems for scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking.

• Collaboration Platforms: Proficiency with Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, or similar tools for team communication, document sharing, and virtual meetings.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Energy Modelling Software: Experience with tools like IES VE, eQUEST, or EnergyPlus for building energy performance analysis.

• CFD Software: Familiarity with computational fluid dynamics software for airflow and thermal analysis (e.g., ANSYS Fluent, Autodesk CFD).

• Reporting Tools: Ability to generate and interpret reports from design software, project management systems, and potentially business intelligence tools for project performance tracking.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: While not a primary sales role, understanding how client interactions are managed and logged in a CRM can be beneficial for client relationship management.

• Workflow Automation: Awareness of how BIM and project management software can automate certain design and coordination workflows to improve efficiency.

• Integration Tools: Understanding how different software platforms (e.g., BIM, project management, financial systems) can integrate to provide a unified project view.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily focused on BIM and advanced design simulation tools, reflecting AECOM's commitment to modern engineering practices. Proficiency in Autodesk Revit and Navisworks is likely crucial for effective multidisciplinary coordination.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all dealings with clients, colleagues, and projects, ensuring trust and reliability.

• Collaboration: Fostering a team-oriented environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and collective problem-solving leads to innovative solutions.

• Excellence: A commitment to delivering high-quality, technically sound, and efficient engineering designs that exceed client expectations and contribute to sustainable outcomes.

• Innovation: Encouraging the adoption of new technologies and methodologies, such as BIM and advanced simulation, to drive continuous improvement and stay at the forefront of the industry.

• Respect: Valuing each team member's contributions, promoting an inclusive workplace, and building strong relationships based on mutual respect.

Collaboration Style:

• AECOM promotes a highly collaborative approach, emphasizing cross-functional integration between MEP, Architecture, Structural, and Project Management teams. This ensures a holistic project development process.

• Regular design review meetings, workshops, and coordination sessions are standard practice, encouraging open feedback and proactive issue resolution.

• Knowledge sharing is encouraged through internal platforms, training sessions, and mentorship programs, fostering a culture of continuous learning and collective growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's values are geared towards professionalism, quality, and teamwork, which are essential for a global engineering consultancy. The collaborative style is critical for managing complex, multidisciplinary projects effectively.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Diverse Stakeholders: Effectively coordinating the needs and expectations of international clients, internal project teams, and various design disciplines requires strong communication and negotiation skills.

• Technical Complexity & Innovation: Staying abreast of rapidly evolving MEP technologies, sustainable design practices, and regulatory changes, while integrating them into complex projects, presents an ongoing challenge.

• Global Project Delivery: Navigating different building codes, standards, and cultural nuances when working on international projects requires adaptability and a broad understanding of global construction practices.

• Balancing Efficiency and Quality: Ensuring timely and budget-conscious project delivery without compromising the technical excellence and long-term performance of MEP systems.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Formal Training Programs: AECOM offers extensive internal training, leadership development programs, and access to external courses and certifications to enhance technical and managerial skills.

• Industry Conferences & Events: Opportunities to attend leading industry events, network with peers, and learn about the latest trends and technologies in building engineering and MEP design.

• Mentorship: Access to experienced senior leaders within AECOM who can provide guidance on career development, technical challenges, and strategic decision-making.

• Project Exposure: Working on a variety of high-profile international projects provides invaluable hands-on experience and exposure to diverse engineering challenges and solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers significant opportunities for professional growth by tackling complex, international projects and engaging with cutting-edge technologies. The challenges are inherent to leading large-scale engineering endeavors and require continuous learning and adaptability.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex MEP design coordination challenge you faced on an international project and how you resolved it, detailing your approach to stakeholder management and technical decision-making." (Focus on structured problem-solving, communication, and technical justification.)

• "How do you ensure technical excellence and quality assurance in MEP designs delivered by a multidisciplinary team, especially when working remotely or with distributed teams?" (Emphasize your quality control processes, review protocols, and team leadership strategies.)

• "Walk me through your experience using BIM and energy modelling tools. Provide an example of how these tools helped you optimize a design or resolve a significant project issue." (Be ready to discuss specific software, your role, and quantifiable outcomes.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about AECOM, and how do you see your skills and experience contributing to our Building Engineering team in Madrid?" (Research AECOM's recent projects, values, and the specific context of the Madrid office.)

• "Describe your ideal team environment and how you foster collaboration and mutual support among engineers with different specializations." (Align your answer with AECOM's stated values of collaboration and respect.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Concise Storytelling: For each portfolio piece, tell a clear story: the project's context, the specific MEP challenge, your leadership role, the solution implemented, and the positive impact (quantified where possible).

• Visual Aids: Use simplified diagrams, screenshots of BIM models, or flowcharts to illustrate complex systems or coordination processes. Avoid overwhelming detail; focus on key takeaways.

• Highlight Collaboration: Emphasize how you worked with other disciplines and stakeholders. Show, don't just tell, how you facilitated effective communication and integrated different project requirements.

• Focus on Leadership: Clearly articulate your decision-making process, how you guided your team, and how you ensured technical integrity and client satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of strong technical MEP knowledge, robust project leadership, excellent client management skills, and an understanding of modern design technologies. Providing specific, quantifiable examples will be key to making a strong impression.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the AECOM careers portal or the provided SmartRecruiters link.

• Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Highlight your experience in MEP design management, multidisciplinary team leadership, client relations, and proficiency with BIM and advanced design tools. Use keywords from the job description such as "MEP Design Manager," "Building Engineering," "BIM," "client liaison," and "multidisciplinary coordination."

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate 2-3 key projects that best showcase your leadership in MEP design coordination, client management, and successful project delivery. Focus on quantifiable achievements and your role in overcoming challenges.

• Research AECOM and the Role: Understand AECOM's global projects, their values, and the specific context of their Building Engineering team in Madrid. Familiarize yourself with their sustainability initiatives and technological advancements.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare for behavioral, technical, and situational interview questions, especially those related to leadership, problem-solving, and client management. Rehearse presenting your portfolio case studies concisely and impactfully.

⚠️ 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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