Principal Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Principal Design Manager

Company: Stantec

Location: South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia

Job Type: Full-time, Regular

Category: Engineering & Design Management (Water Infrastructure)

Date Posted: April 19, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and coordinate multi-disciplinary technical teams in the planning, design, and delivery of complex water and wastewater infrastructure projects.

• Provide advanced technical expertise and drive innovative solutions to meet client needs and project objectives within budget and on schedule.

• Cultivate and maintain strong, valuable business relationships with key clients, particularly within the water utility sector.

• Actively contribute to business development efforts by supporting proposal and bid preparation, ensuring high-quality submissions.

• Oversee internal technical reviews and verification processes to ensure the integrity and quality of project designs.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a senior leadership position within Stantec's Water Division in Australia, focusing specifically on Queensland projects. The emphasis on "Principal" suggests a need for significant technical authority, client-facing acumen, and the ability to mentor and lead other engineers. The "Design Manager" title indicates a primary focus on the technical design phase, but with a broad scope encompassing project coordination and delivery aspects.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Coordinate all multi-disciplinary activities and inputs from technical teams, including specialist consultants, to ensure integrated and optimal technical solutions for water and wastewater projects.

• Plan, program, and manage studies, investigations, design, and construction management projects, acting as Design Manager or Project Technical Lead.

• Ensure project outputs are delivered on time, within budget, and to high-quality standards, meeting client expectations and Stantec's quality benchmarks.

• Drive value into Stantec's solutions by applying technical acumen and developing innovative approaches to meet client requirements.

• Develop and nurture strong working relationships with clients by delivering valuable business solutions and demonstrating a deep understanding of their operational needs and business objectives.

• Lead engineering projects, managing internal engineering disciplines and subcontractors effectively to achieve project milestones.

• Conduct internal technical reviews and verification checks on all aspects of water and wastewater projects to ensure compliance and technical excellence.

• Support delivery teams during the design and construction phases, providing senior leadership and management oversight.

• Identify business development opportunities and cultivate high-level relationships with key utility and potential water-focused clients, aligning with Stantec's strategic business goals.

• Contribute to the pursuit and proposal phase of key business development opportunities, including the preparation of compelling and technically sound proposals.

• Facilitate design coordination and review meetings with clients and stakeholders, leveraging knowledge of engineering assurance processes and a systems approach to design.

• Prepare contract technical specifications, scope of works, and technical schedules for projects.

• Focus on developing and enhancing Stantec's water and wastewater project delivery expertise, both locally in Queensland and across the broader ANZ business.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on technical project leadership and business development. The emphasis on "multi-disciplinary activities" and "specialist inputs" points to a need for strong coordination and integration skills. The requirement to "drive value into our solutions" suggests a focus on cost-effectiveness and innovative problem-solving beyond standard engineering practices.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• A minimum of 10 years of experience in civil or process-mechanical water infrastructure engineering, encompassing both design and construction phases.

• Demonstrated experience in leading engineering projects and managing multidisciplinary teams, including subcontractors.

• Proven track record in client relationship management and business development within the water sector.

Required Skills:

• Technical Design Expertise: Advanced knowledge of water and wastewater services, including treatment processes, conveyance systems, and hydraulic design.

• Project Leadership & Management: Proven ability to plan, program, and coordinate complex engineering projects, ensuring on-time, on-budget, and high-quality delivery.

• Client Relationship Management: Strong skills in developing and maintaining robust relationships with key utility clients and stakeholders, understanding their business needs.

• Business Development & Proposal Writing: Experience in supporting business development activities, including proposal and bid development, and crafting compelling technical content.

• Team Leadership & Coordination: Exceptional ability to lead, manage, and coordinate multidisciplinary engineering teams and subcontractors effectively.

• Problem-Solving & Negotiation: Highly developed skills in resolving technical disputes and negotiating solutions to complex project challenges.

• Engineering Assurance & Reviews: Solid understanding of engineering assurance processes and conducting thorough technical reviews and verification checks.

• Contract Development: Proficiency in preparing contract technical specifications, scope of works, and technical schedules.

• Communication & Report Writing: Solid report writing skills with the ability to articulate technical concepts and project outcomes clearly and compellingly.

• Professional Registration: Hold or be eligible to obtain CPEng (Chartered Professional Engineer) and RPEQ (Registered Professional Engineer of Queensland) registration.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with specific water and wastewater technologies relevant to Queensland's infrastructure needs.

• Familiarity with Stantec's internal project management and design software suites.

• Experience in mentoring junior engineers and fostering professional development within teams.

• A proactive, solution-focused approach to project challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for CPEng and RPEQ is critical for engineering roles in Queensland, Australia, and signifies a senior level of technical competence and professional accountability. The "10+ years" experience, coupled with "Principal" in the title, indicates a need for seasoned professionals capable of independent decision-making and strategic input. The emphasis on "telling a compelling story" in reports suggests a need for strong narrative and persuasive communication skills.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Leadership Case Studies: Showcase instances where you managed complex water/wastewater design projects from concept through to successful delivery, detailing your role, team size, and project outcomes.

• Technical Solution Development: Provide examples of how you applied technical expertise to develop innovative and cost-effective solutions for challenging water or wastewater infrastructure problems.

• Client Engagement & Business Development: Include evidence of successful client relationship management, including examples of how you contributed to winning new business or expanding existing client portfolios.

• Process Optimization & Efficiency: Demonstrate your ability to improve design processes, enhance team efficiency, or implement best practices that led to measurable improvements (e.g., reduced design time, improved quality, cost savings).

• Risk Management & Problem Resolution: Present case studies where you effectively identified, assessed, and mitigated project risks or resolved complex technical disputes.

Process Documentation:

• Design Management Frameworks: Illustrate your understanding of structured design management processes, including planning, coordination, review, and approval stages.

• Quality Assurance & Control Procedures: Detail your experience in implementing and overseeing quality assurance and control measures throughout the design lifecycle.

• Collaboration & Communication Protocols: Provide examples of how you established and maintained effective communication channels and collaboration protocols within multidisciplinary teams and with external stakeholders.

• Performance Measurement & Reporting: Showcase your ability to define key performance indicators (KPIs) for design projects and report on progress, risks, and outcomes effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Principal Design Manager role, the portfolio should emphasize strategic thinking, leadership, and quantifiable achievements rather than just listing responsibilities. Prospective candidates should be prepared to articulate their methodologies for design coordination, risk management, and client engagement, ideally with evidence of positive impact on project delivery and client satisfaction.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Given the "Principal" designation, 10+ years of experience, and the specialized nature of water infrastructure engineering in a major Australian city like Brisbane, a competitive salary package is expected. Based on industry benchmarks for similar senior engineering management roles in Australia, the estimated annual salary range would be AUD $160,000 - $220,000, depending on the candidate's specific experience, qualifications, and negotiation.

Benefits:

• Genuine Flexible Working Arrangements: Including opportunities for work from home, provision for school term contracts, job sharing, and part-time employment.

• Learning and Talent Development Programs: Access to global programs, online learning modules, and on-the-job learning opportunities for continuous professional growth.

• Additional Leave: Option to purchase up to 4 weeks of additional annual leave.

• Mentoring: Opportunities to receive mentoring for personal development and to mentor other team members.

• Professional Memberships: Support for maintaining professional body memberships.

• Salary Continuance Insurance (SCI): Financial protection in case of long-term illness or injury.

• Mental Health and Wellbeing Programs: Comprehensive support services to promote employee wellbeing.

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

Working Hours:

• The role is listed as full-time, typically implying around 40 hours per week. Stantec also promotes flexible working arrangements, suggesting some autonomy in managing work hours to balance project demands with personal needs, within the framework of project delivery requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on typical compensation for senior engineering and management roles in Australia's infrastructure sector, considering the specified experience level and location. The extensive list of benefits underscores Stantec's commitment to employee wellbeing and professional development, which is a significant draw for experienced professionals.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering, Consulting, and Construction Services (specifically within the Water sector). Stantec operates globally across various infrastructure and environmental domains.

Company Size: Approximately 34,000 employees worldwide, with a significant presence in Australia (400+ water specialists). This indicates a large, established organization with robust resources and a global network, offering stability and diverse opportunities.

Founded: Stantec was founded in 1954, signifying a long history of industry experience and a proven track record in delivering complex projects.

Team Structure:

• Water Division Focus: The role is within the Water team, which is experiencing significant growth, suggesting a dynamic and expanding department.

• Project-Based Teams: Teams are likely structured around specific projects, requiring collaboration across various engineering disciplines (civil, mechanical, electrical, environmental, etc.) and project management functions.

• Reporting Hierarchy: As a "Principal" role, this position likely reports to a senior director or regional manager within the Water Division and is responsible for leading project teams, which may include other design managers, project engineers, and technical specialists.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Close collaboration with client representatives, other Stantec business units (e.g., transport, buildings), and external stakeholders (government agencies, contractors) is essential.

Methodology:

• Client-Centric Solutions: Stantec emphasizes understanding client needs and delivering valuable business solutions. The approach is likely collaborative and consultative.

• Integrated Design Approach: The role requires coordinating "multi-disciplinary activities" and ensuring an "integrated technical solution," highlighting a systems-thinking and holistic design methodology.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: While not explicitly stated, modern engineering consulting relies heavily on data analysis for design optimization, risk assessment, and project performance monitoring.

• Focus on Innovation & Sustainability: The company's mission often involves designing for community, creativity, and client relationships, suggesting an environment that values innovative and sustainable solutions.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Stantec's global reach and extensive history in engineering consulting provide a strong foundation for career growth. The emphasis on the Water team's growth and the specific focus on Queensland projects offer a clear picture of the immediate work environment and strategic direction. The company culture likely values expertise, collaboration, and a commitment to community impact.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a "Principal" level position, indicating a senior role with significant technical authority, leadership responsibilities, and a strategic impact on project delivery and business development. It sits at the top tier of technical management roles before potentially moving into broader program management or executive leadership.

Reporting Structure: The Principal Design Manager will likely report to a senior management figure within Stantec's Water Division in Australia (e.g., a Director of Water, Regional Manager, or Practice Leader). They will, in turn, lead and manage project-specific technical teams, including other design engineers and specialists.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct impact on the success of Stantec's water and wastewater projects in Queensland, influencing technical outcomes, project profitability, client satisfaction, and the company's reputation. By leading design and coordinating technical efforts, this role is critical in translating client needs into tangible, high-quality infrastructure solutions that serve communities. It also contributes significantly to business development and securing future work.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization & Authority: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific areas of water/wastewater engineering and become a recognized technical authority within Stantec and the industry.

• Leadership Development: Progression into broader project director roles, program management, or leadership positions within the Water sector or other Stantec business lines.

• Business Development Leadership: Taking a leading role in strategic client management, national business development initiatives, and winning major projects.

• Mentorship & Knowledge Transfer: Opportunities to mentor and develop junior engineers, contributing to the overall capability and talent pipeline within the organization.

• Global Mobility: As part of a large international firm, there may be opportunities for international assignments or involvement in global initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Principal" title strongly suggests this is an individual contributor role with significant leadership and influence, rather than a purely managerial role overseeing a large department. The focus is on technical excellence, strategic client engagement, and driving project success through expert design leadership. Growth opportunities are geared towards expanding this influence and expertise.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. Stantec's description mentions "genuine flexible working arrangements – including work from home opportunities," indicating a hybrid work model. This suggests a blend of office-based collaboration and remote work.

Office Location(s): The primary location is South Brisbane, Queensland. Candidates should verify specific office facilities and accessibility.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role requires close interaction with internal teams, clients, and stakeholders, suggesting a collaborative workspace that supports meetings, design reviews, and team discussions.

• Tools & Technology: Access to Stantec's advanced design software, project management tools, and communication platforms will be essential for effective performance.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular interaction with other water specialists, project managers, and senior leaders within the Brisbane office and potentially across Australia.

Work Schedule:

• Full-time position (typically 40 hours per week).

• Flexible working arrangements are offered, allowing for some autonomy in managing work hours, subject to project deadlines and client needs. This flexibility is beneficial for managing complex projects that may require extended hours at critical junctures, balanced with personal commitments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the work environment, combined with flexible working, is a key benefit. Candidates should expect a professional, collaborative office setting for key meetings and team interactions, with the flexibility to work remotely for focused tasks.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Based on CV and application, likely conducted by HR or a recruitment specialist to assess basic qualifications and experience.

• Technical Interview: A discussion with senior members of the Water team, potentially including the hiring manager and other Principal Engineers. Expect questions to delve into technical expertise, project experience, problem-solving approaches, and leadership style.

• Portfolio Review/Presentation: Candidates may be asked to present specific projects from their portfolio, detailing their role, challenges faced, solutions implemented, and outcomes achieved. This is a critical stage to demonstrate practical application of skills.

• Client/Stakeholder Focus Interview: An interview focusing on client relationship management, business development approach, and ability to understand and meet client needs.

• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership within the region or business unit to assess cultural fit, strategic alignment, and overall suitability for the Principal role.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Achievements: For each project presented, focus on quantifiable results – e.g., cost savings, efficiency gains, project timeline adherence, client satisfaction metrics, technical innovations.

• Highlight Leadership & Coordination: Emphasize your role in leading multidisciplinary teams, coordinating inputs, resolving conflicts, and driving project progress.

• Demonstrate Problem-Solving: Select case studies that showcase complex technical challenges and your innovative, effective solutions.

• Showcase Client Engagement: Include examples of how you built and maintained strong client relationships, contributed to business development, and delivered value.

• Structure for Clarity: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or key skill area, with clear introductions, problem statements, your contributions, and outcomes.

• Prepare for Technical Depth: Be ready to discuss technical details of water/wastewater systems, design methodologies, and engineering assurance processes.

Challenge Preparation:

• Hypothetical Project Scenarios: Be prepared for questions that present hypothetical project challenges (e.g., a design conflict, a client dispute, a budget overrun) and ask how you would approach them.

• Technical Problem-Solving: Expect questions that test your understanding of specific water/wastewater engineering principles and your ability to apply them to solve problems.

• Leadership & Team Management Scenarios: Prepare to discuss how you manage teams, motivate individuals, handle underperformance, and foster collaboration.

• Business Acumen: Anticipate questions about your understanding of project profitability, client value, and business development strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on portfolio review and presentation suggests that Stantec values demonstrable experience and the ability to articulate one's contributions effectively. Candidates should prepare concise, impactful narratives for their key projects, focusing on the impact and value they delivered.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency with industry-standard project management tools (e.g., Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or Stantec's internal systems) for planning, scheduling, and tracking project progress.

• Design & Engineering Software: While not explicitly listed, expertise with CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, Civil 3D), BIM (Building Information Modeling) tools, and specialized water/wastewater modeling and design software (e.g., EPANET, InfoWorks WS, Bentley WaterGEMS/WaterCAD) would be highly beneficial.

• Collaboration Platforms: Familiarity with tools like Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, or similar platforms for communication, document sharing, and virtual collaboration.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret data from various sources, including project performance metrics, technical simulations, and client feedback, likely using tools like Microsoft Excel (advanced functions, pivot tables) or specialized data analytics software.

• Reporting & Presentation Software: Proficiency in creating clear, concise reports and presentations using Microsoft PowerPoint or similar tools, essential for client and stakeholder communication.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: While not a sales role, understanding client relationship management principles and potentially familiarity with CRM systems (if Stantec uses them for client tracking) could be advantageous for business development aspects.

• Document Management Systems: Experience with robust document control and management systems is crucial for handling project documentation, specifications, and technical drawings.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific software is not listed, a Principal Design Manager in this field would be expected to be proficient with a range of project management, design, and collaborative tools. The ability to leverage technology for efficiency and effective project delivery is a key expectation.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety & Wellbeing: A strong emphasis on health and safety in all project activities, reflecting Stantec's commitment to employee wellbeing.

• Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding high ethical standards and professional conduct in all dealings with clients, colleagues, and stakeholders.

• Client Focus & Collaboration: A dedication to understanding and meeting client needs, fostering strong collaborative relationships to deliver exceptional outcomes.

• Innovation & Excellence: A drive to find creative solutions, push technical boundaries, and achieve excellence in design and project delivery.

• Community Impact: A commitment to making a positive difference in the communities where Stantec operates, particularly through sustainable and impactful infrastructure projects.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role necessitates seamless collaboration across diverse engineering disciplines and project functions to achieve integrated design solutions.

• Open Communication: Encouraging open dialogue, constructive feedback, and knowledge sharing among team members to foster continuous improvement and problem-solving.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Proactive engagement with clients, regulatory bodies, and other stakeholders to ensure alignment, manage expectations, and build consensus.

• Mentorship & Team Development: A culture that supports the growth of team members through guidance, knowledge transfer, and opportunities for skill development.

📝 Enhancement Note: Stantec's values emphasize a strong ethical foundation, client-centricity, and a commitment to positive community impact. The collaborative style is key to managing complex, multidisciplinary projects effectively.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Complex Projects: Overseeing large-scale, multi-disciplinary water infrastructure projects with intricate technical requirements and tight deadlines in a competitive market.

• Stakeholder Alignment: Navigating diverse stakeholder interests and ensuring alignment on technical solutions and project objectives, particularly in public infrastructure projects.

• Technical Innovation Adoption: Keeping abreast of and integrating new technologies and sustainable practices into design solutions to meet evolving client and regulatory demands.

• Talent Development & Retention: Attracting, developing, and retaining top engineering talent within a growing and competitive sector.

• Business Development Pressure: Balancing the demands of project delivery with the need to actively contribute to business development and secure future work.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Access to specialized training programs in water/wastewater engineering, design methodologies, and emerging technologies.

• Leadership & Management Development: Opportunities to enhance leadership skills through formal training, workshops, and on-the-job experience in managing senior teams and complex projects.

• Professional Networking: Engaging with industry peers at conferences, seminars, and professional association events to stay current and expand professional networks.

• Mentorship Programs: Formal and informal mentorship opportunities to gain insights from experienced leaders and develop strategic career planning.

• Exposure to Diverse Projects: Working on a variety of water and wastewater projects, from municipal infrastructure to industrial water solutions, providing broad experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for a senior role in a consulting engineering firm, requiring a blend of technical prowess, leadership, and business acumen. The growth opportunities are robust, reflecting Stantec's investment in its employees' professional development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you led a complex, multi-disciplinary design project for a water or wastewater infrastructure. What were the key challenges, how did you coordinate the teams, and what was the ultimate outcome?" (Focus on your leadership, coordination, and problem-solving approach).

• "How do you ensure technical excellence and quality assurance throughout the design process for major infrastructure projects?" (Prepare to discuss your methodologies for technical reviews, verification, and assurance).

• "When faced with conflicting technical opinions or design requirements from different disciplines or stakeholders, how do you facilitate a resolution?" (Demonstrate your negotiation and conflict-resolution skills).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Stantec's work in the Australian water sector, and why are you interested in this Principal Design Manager role specifically?" (Showcase your research and genuine interest).

• "How do you align with Stantec's values, particularly regarding community impact, collaboration, and innovation?" (Be ready to provide examples of how your values match the company's).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select Impactful Projects: Choose 2-3 projects that best demonstrate your leadership, technical expertise, problem-solving abilities, and client engagement skills relevant to water infrastructure.

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly articulate:

  • The client and project context.
  • The primary challenge(s) and objectives.
  • Your specific role and responsibilities.
  • The multidisciplinary team you led/coordinated.
  • The technical solutions developed.
  • How you managed risks and resolved issues.
  • The quantifiable outcomes and impact (e.g., budget, schedule, quality, client satisfaction).

• Focus on 'Why' and 'How': Don't just describe what you did; explain why you made certain decisions and how you achieved specific results.

• Prepare for Q&A: Anticipate technical questions about your projects and be ready to elaborate on design choices, methodologies, and lessons learned.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not only technical competence but also leadership, strategic thinking, and client-facing acumen. The ability to articulate past successes with data and clear narratives is crucial for a Principal-level role.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Principal Design Manager position:

• Submit Your CV: Prepare a comprehensive CV that highlights your 10+ years of experience in water/wastewater infrastructure engineering, focusing on design and construction management, leadership, and client engagement. Ensure it clearly details your CPEng and RPEQ status (or eligibility).

• Tailor Your Application: Customize your CV and any cover letter to specifically address the requirements and responsibilities outlined in this job description, using keywords from the listing.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Gather examples of your most relevant and impactful projects that showcase your design management, technical leadership, problem-solving, and business development capabilities. Be ready to present these in detail.

• Research Stantec & Queensland Water Projects: Familiarize yourself with Stantec's recent projects, values, and strategic focus in Australia, particularly in Queensland. Understand the current water and wastewater challenges and opportunities in the region.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare for behavioral and situational interview questions by using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) and practicing your responses to common technical and leadership inquiries.

⚠️ 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.