MEP Design Manager | Building Engineering

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: MEP Design Manager | Building Engineering

Company: AECOM

Location: Madrid, Spain

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Engineering / Building Services Operations

Date Posted: March 26, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage multidisciplinary MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Public Health, Fire Protection, Telecom) engineering teams to deliver high-quality building and infrastructure projects.

• Ensure technical excellence and client satisfaction by delivering, reviewing, and approving engineering solutions.

• Act as the primary liaison between clients and AECOM, fostering strong, long-term relationships and ensuring effective communication.

• Drive project success by ensuring goals are achieved on time and within budget, coordinating project activities with planning engineers and other disciplines.

• Contribute to the continuous enhancement of technical expertise within the team and the broader building engineering practice.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a leadership opportunity within AECOM's Building Engineering team in Spain. The focus is on managing MEP design delivery, client interaction, and interdisciplinary coordination, utilizing advanced technologies like BIM and energy modeling. The "Operations" aspect refers to the operational management of design projects and teams, rather than traditional revenue or sales operations.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and support multidisciplinary MEP engineering teams throughout the project lifecycle, from conceptual design to completion.

• Oversee the development, review, and approval of high-quality MEP engineering solutions, ensuring adherence to AECOM's technical standards and client requirements.

• Serve as the key technical point of contact for clients, managing expectations, facilitating clear communication, and building trusted partnerships.

• Collaborate closely with Project Managers and Planning Engineers to establish project schedules, identify potential changes, and provide technical justifications for scope adjustments.

• Foster strong working relationships with other disciplines, including Architecture and Structural Engineering, to ensure seamless design integration and coordination.

• Champion the adoption and effective utilization of advanced technologies such as Building Information Modelling (BIM), energy modeling, and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to optimize design processes and outcomes.

• Continuously assess team performance, identify areas for individual and collective skill development, and implement training initiatives to enhance technical expertise.

• Contribute to the strategic growth of AECOM's Building Engineering practice by identifying new opportunities and supporting business development efforts.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities highlight a blend of technical leadership, project management, and client relationship management within an engineering design context. The role requires a strong understanding of MEP systems and the ability to manage complex, multidisciplinary projects efficiently.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

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

Experience: Minimum of 5-10 years of proven experience in developing conceptual installation designs through to completion, with a strong emphasis on MEP discipline coordination and direct client interaction. Experience in construction environments is considered a plus.

Required Skills:

• Proven track record in MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Public Health, Fire Protection, Telecom) design and coordination for building and infrastructure projects.

• Strong technical knowledge in either Mechanical or Electrical engineering disciplines.

• Demonstrated ability to lead and manage multidisciplinary engineering teams effectively.

• Experience in direct client liaison and stakeholder management, building and maintaining strong relationships.

• Solid understanding of the interdependencies and requirements of other engineering disciplines (e.g., Architecture, Structural).

• Proficiency in project planning, scheduling, and resource management.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with Building Information Modelling (BIM) workflows and standards.

• Familiarity with energy modeling and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis.

• Experience working on national and international projects with diverse client bases.

• Knowledge of construction environments and site coordination practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a strong technical foundation in MEP engineering, coupled with essential leadership, project management, and communication skills. The bilingual requirement (English and Spanish) is critical for operating within AECOM Spain's international client base.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase detailed case studies of complex MEP design projects, demonstrating the full project lifecycle from conceptualization to completion.

• Highlight examples of MEP discipline coordination, illustrating how you integrated mechanical, electrical, public health, fire protection, and telecom systems seamlessly.

• Include evidence of successful client engagement and relationship management, showcasing how you acted as a trusted technical partner.

• Present examples of project planning and scheduling, demonstrating your ability to manage timelines and resources effectively.

Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate a clear understanding of best practices in MEP design process management, including workflow design and optimization.

• Showcase experience with implementing and managing advanced design technologies such as BIM, energy modeling, and CFD.

• Provide examples of how you measure and analyze project performance to ensure on-time and within-budget delivery.

• Illustrate your approach to interdisciplinary coordination and communication, documenting how you fostered collaboration between different engineering and architectural teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role like this, a portfolio should not only detail technical achievements but also demonstrate leadership, project management capabilities, and client-facing skills. The emphasis is on the operational execution of design projects and the management of the design process.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for experienced MEP Design Managers in Madrid, Spain, with a hybrid work model and AECOM's global standing, a competitive annual salary range is estimated between €60,000 - €85,000 gross. This range accounts for the specified experience level (5-10 years), the senior nature of the role, and the cost of living in Madrid.

Benefits:

• Hybrid working model (2-3 days/week in office) offering flexibility.

• Flexible working hours to support work-life balance.

• Comprehensive health benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance.

• Life insurance and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) coverage.

• Disability benefits and paid time off.

• Access to leaves of absence policies.

• Voluntary benefits, perks, and well-being resources.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for support.

• Business travel insurance.

• Service recognition awards.

• Retirement savings plan and Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP).

• Opportunities for professional development and training within a global network.

Working Hours: Standard full-time position, likely around 40 hours per week, with flexible working hours and a hybrid office/remote arrangement.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimates are based on average compensation data for similar engineering management roles in Madrid, Spain, considering the company's industry position and the role's responsibilities. Benefits are extensive, aligning with a large, global corporation like AECOM.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Infrastructure Consulting, Engineering, Construction. AECOM operates at the forefront of global infrastructure development, tackling complex challenges across water, environment, energy, transportation, and buildings.

Company Size: AECOM is a global enterprise with over 50,000 employees worldwide, making it a large and established organization with significant resources and international reach.

Founded: AECOM was founded in 1910, signifying a long history of expertise and a stable legacy in the engineering and construction consulting sector.

Team Structure:

• The Building Engineering team in Spain is part of a larger international network, focusing on MEP systems design.

• This role will involve leading a multidisciplinary MEP team and collaborating closely with other design disciplines (Architecture, Structural) and project management teams.

Methodology:

• AECOM emphasizes world-class methodologies, including advanced digital tools like Building Information Modelling (BIM), energy modeling, and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD).

• The team focuses on delivering efficient, sustainable, and coordinated MEP designs.

• A collaborative approach is central, fostering strong relationships across disciplines and with clients.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's culture is characterized by its global reach, commitment to engineering excellence, and focus on delivering impactful infrastructure projects. The company values innovation, collaboration, and employee growth, providing a dynamic environment for professionals in the building engineering sector.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior management position within the Building Engineering practice, focusing on the operational delivery of MEP design services. It requires a blend of technical expertise, leadership, and project management skills. The role is crucial for ensuring the quality and efficiency of design outputs and client satisfaction.

Reporting Structure: The MEP Design Manager will report to a higher-level project or engineering lead within AECOM Spain, likely a Director or Senior Manager, and will directly manage a team of MEP engineers and designers. Collaboration with Project Managers and other discipline leads is also a key aspect of the reporting structure.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct impact on AECOM's reputation and financial performance through the successful delivery of high-quality MEP designs, client retention, and efficient project execution. It contributes to AECOM's mission of delivering a better world by ensuring buildings are safe, comfortable, and sustainable.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific MEP areas or advanced design technologies (e.g., sustainable design, smart buildings).

• Leadership Advancement: Progress to roles such as Senior MEP Design Manager, Project Director, or Head of Building Engineering, overseeing larger teams and more complex projects.

• International Mobility: Leverage AECOM's global network for opportunities on international projects or in other regions.

• Business Development: Contribute to winning new projects by leveraging client relationships and technical expertise.

• Mentorship: Develop leadership skills by mentoring junior engineers and designers within the team.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career progression within a leading global infrastructure firm. The emphasis is on developing leadership capabilities alongside technical expertise, with opportunities for both specialization and broader management roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: AECOM operates a hybrid work model, meaning employees will spend a portion of their week in the office and the remainder working remotely. This is designed to balance collaborative work with individual focus and flexibility.

Office Location(s): The primary office location for this role is Madrid, Spain, specifically at C/Alfonso XII. This location likely offers modern facilities conducive to collaborative design work and client meetings.

Workspace Context:

• The office environment is described as very positive and collaborative, fostering teamwork and mutual support among colleagues.

• Expect access to modern design tools and technology, including BIM software, energy modeling tools, and potentially CFD analysis software.

• Opportunities for interaction with a diverse team of engineers, architects, planners, and project managers, both locally and internationally through AECOM's global network.

Work Schedule: A hybrid work schedule is offered, with 2-3 days per week expected in the office, depending on project needs. Flexible working hours are also available, supporting a better work-life balance for operations professionals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model and flexible hours are key components of AECOM's work environment, aiming to provide a supportive and efficient setting for its engineering professionals. The emphasis on collaboration and access to technology is crucial for design-focused roles.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or a recruitment specialist will likely conduct an initial review of your application and conduct a brief screening call to assess basic qualifications and interest.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A more in-depth interview with the Hiring Manager (likely a senior leader in Building Engineering) to discuss your experience, technical skills, leadership approach, and fit with the team. Be prepared to discuss your MEP design experience and project management philosophy.

• Technical/Team Interview: You may meet with other senior engineers or team members to discuss specific technical challenges, design methodologies, and your approach to team collaboration. This could involve a case study or technical problem-solving exercise.

• Final Interview: Potentially a final interview with a Director or senior executive to assess overall fit, strategic thinking, and long-term potential within AECOM.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your most impactful MEP design projects that best showcase your leadership, technical expertise, and client management skills.

• Focus on Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your role, the solutions implemented (especially MEP coordination and advanced technologies), the challenges overcome, and the quantifiable results (e.g., cost savings, efficiency gains, sustainability improvements).

• Highlight Leadership: Showcase how you led and motivated multidisciplinary teams, managed client expectations, and fostered collaboration.

• Demonstrate Technical Depth: Be ready to discuss specific design decisions, technical challenges, and your rationale for choosing particular solutions.

• Prepare for Questions: Anticipate questions about your design process, how you handle conflict within teams, client communication strategies, and your experience with BIM and other advanced tools.

Challenge Preparation:

• MEP Design Scenario: Be prepared for a hypothetical MEP design challenge, requiring you to outline your approach to problem-solving, coordination, and solution development within a given timeframe.

• Team Management Scenario: You might be asked to describe how you would manage a challenging team dynamic or resolve a conflict between different engineering disciplines.

• Client Presentation: Practice presenting a project summary or a proposed solution, focusing on clarity, conciseness, and persuasive communication tailored to a client audience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a management role like this will heavily scrutinize leadership capabilities, technical acumen, and client-facing skills. A well-prepared portfolio and thoughtful responses to scenario-based questions are crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• MEP Design Software: Proficiency in industry-standard CAD and BIM software such as AutoCAD, Revit MEP, Navisworks, and potentially Bentley Systems products.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with tools like Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or similar platforms for project planning, scheduling, and tracking.

• Collaboration Platforms: Experience with tools like Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, or other cloud-based collaboration suites for document sharing and team communication.

Analytics & Reporting:

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

• CFD Software: Familiarity with Computational Fluid Dynamics software for analyzing airflow and thermal comfort.

• Data Analysis Tools: Basic proficiency in Excel for data analysis and reporting; potential exposure to more advanced analytics tools may be beneficial.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: While not a direct sales role, understanding CRM principles for client management and relationship tracking (e.g., Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics) can be advantageous.

• Document Management Systems: Experience with AECOM's internal document management systems or similar enterprise-level solutions for efficient project documentation.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong command of BIM and related design software is paramount. The ability to leverage these tools for efficient project delivery and to analyze performance through energy modeling and CFD is a significant advantage.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Technical Excellence: A commitment to delivering high-quality, innovative, and technically sound MEP designs that meet or exceed client expectations and industry standards.

• Collaboration: Fostering a team-oriented environment where open communication, mutual respect, and shared problem-solving are paramount across all disciplines.

• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and meeting client needs, building strong, long-term relationships based on trust and reliable delivery.

• Innovation: Encouraging the adoption of new technologies and methodologies (like BIM, energy modeling) to drive efficiency and deliver sustainable solutions.

• Integrity: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all professional dealings and project execution.

Collaboration Style:

• Interdisciplinary Synergy: Actively promotes cross-functional collaboration between MEP, Architecture, Structural, and other engineering disciplines to ensure integrated and holistic project outcomes.

• Open Communication Channels: Encourages direct and transparent communication with team members, clients, and stakeholders, fostering an environment where feedback is welcomed and acted upon.

• Knowledge Sharing: Supports a culture of continuous learning and knowledge exchange, where best practices are shared, and team members are empowered to contribute their expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's values align with a professional services firm focused on delivering complex projects. The emphasis on technical rigor, client satisfaction, and collaborative teamwork is essential for success in this MEP Design Manager role.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Complex Projects: Overseeing multiple large-scale, technically intricate MEP design projects simultaneously, ensuring all deadlines and quality standards are met.

• Interdisciplinary Coordination: Navigating the complexities of integrating MEP designs with architectural and structural elements, resolving potential clashes and ensuring constructability.

• Client Expectations: Balancing demanding client requirements, budget constraints, and tight timelines while maintaining high technical standards.

• Technological Adaptation: Staying abreast of and effectively integrating rapidly evolving design technologies, software, and methodologies to maintain a competitive edge.

• Team Development: Continually mentoring and developing a diverse team of engineers, ensuring skill enhancement and career progression within AECOM.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Access to specialized training programs in areas like sustainable design, smart building technologies, advanced MEP systems, and emerging design software.

• Leadership Development Programs: Opportunities to participate in AECOM's internal leadership and management training to hone skills in team management, strategic planning, and business development.

• Industry Conferences & Certifications: Support for attending relevant industry events, workshops, and pursuing professional certifications to enhance expertise and network.

• Mentorship: Benefit from mentorship from senior leaders within AECOM's global network, gaining insights into career progression and strategic decision-making.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges inherent in this role are typical of senior engineering management positions, requiring strong problem-solving, communication, and adaptability. AECOM's commitment to learning and development provides ample opportunities for professional growth.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex MEP design project you managed from concept to completion. What were the key challenges, and how did you overcome them?" (Focus on leadership, technical decisions, and problem-solving.)

• "How do you ensure effective coordination between MEP, architectural, and structural disciplines on a project?" (Highlight your collaboration strategies and use of BIM/coordination tools.)

• "How do you manage client expectations and build strong, long-term relationships in a consulting environment?" (Emphasize communication, proactivity, and client-centricity.)

• "Describe a time you had to deliver a project under significant budget or time constraints. What was your approach, and what was the outcome?" (Showcase your project management and resourcefulness.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about AECOM and this specific MEP Design Manager role in Madrid?" (Research AECOM's projects, values, and its presence in Spain.)

• "How do you foster a collaborative and high-performing team environment?" (Align your answer with AECOM's emphasis on teamwork and mutual support.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure for Impact: Begin with an executive summary of your career and key strengths. For each project, use a clear STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) or similar framework.

• Visuals are Key: Use diagrams, BIM screenshots, energy models, and project photos to illustrate your work. Keep text concise and impactful.

• Quantify Results: Whenever possible, present data on cost savings, energy efficiency improvements, compliance achievements, or client satisfaction metrics.

• Focus on Leadership: Explicitly detail your role in leading teams, managing stakeholders, and driving project success.

• Concise and Engaging: Practice your presentation to ensure it flows well, stays within time limits, and effectively communicates your value proposition.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating leadership, technical competence, and a strong understanding of project delivery within a consulting context. Your ability to articulate your experience using concrete examples and to align with AECOM's values will be critical.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this MEP Design Manager position:

• Submit your comprehensive resume and a compelling cover letter through the AECOM careers portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Prepare a portfolio that strategically highlights 3-5 key MEP design projects. Focus on demonstrating your leadership in multidisciplinary team management, client liaison, and technical design delivery.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly outlines your experience with MEP systems, BIM, project management, and client interaction. Quantify achievements where possible and use keywords relevant to building engineering and design management.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method and prepare specific examples for technical, leadership, and client management scenarios. Research AECOM's recent projects in Spain and their company values.

• Company Research: Gain a deep understanding of AECOM's Building Engineering business line, their approach to sustainable design, and their key projects in the region. Be prepared to discuss how your skills align with their strategic goals.

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

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