Principal Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Principal Designer

Company: Sedgman

Location: Brisbane, Queensland, Australia

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Engineering Design / Operations

Date Posted: 2026-02-10

Experience Level: 10+ years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the design process from conceptualization through to detailed engineering for mineral processing and heavy industry projects.

• Develop and execute 3D designs, translating complex engineering concepts into tangible models and deliverables.

• Ensure the accuracy, completeness, and adherence of all drafting and design outputs to specifications and client requirements.

• Uphold stringent quality standards throughout the design lifecycle, maintaining efficiency and client satisfaction.

• Contribute to the expansion of design capabilities, with a focus on Mechanical and SMP (Structural, Mechanical, Piping) design.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is centered around advanced design engineering within the mineral processing sector. The focus on "Principal Designer" implies a senior position requiring leadership in design methodologies, technical oversight, and potentially mentoring junior designers. The emphasis on converting concepts to 3D models and ensuring quality suggests a strong need for precision and adherence to industry standards.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and execute piping layout design, ensuring efficient integration of mechanical components within project frameworks.

• Transform engineering concepts into detailed 3D models using advanced design software.

• Conduct thorough checks of drafting deliverables, verifying accuracy, completeness, and alignment with design specifications and project intent.

• Proactively identify and address potential design challenges to maintain project timelines and quality benchmarks.

• Collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering teams to ensure seamless integration of design elements and project requirements.

• Develop and refine design specifications, standards, and best practices for mineral processing and heavy industry projects.

• Mentor and guide junior designers and drafters, fostering skill development and adherence to Sedgman's design ethos.

• Contribute to the expansion of Sedgman's design services, potentially in areas like SMP (Structural, Mechanical, Piping) design.

• Stay abreast of and apply relevant Australian standards and industry best practices in all design activities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of hands-on technical design work and leadership. The "Principal" title suggests involvement in strategic design decisions, quality assurance, and potentially client interaction regarding design aspects. The specific mention of SMP design indicates a desire for cross-disciplinary design expertise or a willingness to develop it.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Formal education in Engineering Design, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field is highly desirable.

Experience:

• A minimum of 10+ years of progressive experience in design engineering within the mining, minerals processing, or heavy industries sectors.

• Proven experience managing design projects from the conceptual stage through to detailed engineering completion.

Required Skills:

• Piping Layout Design: Expertise in designing and optimizing piping systems for industrial applications.

• 3D Modeling Proficiency: Advanced skills in creating complex 3D models using Autodesk suite (AutoCAD Plant 3D, Advanced Steel).

• CAD Software Mastery: High proficiency in AutoCAD 2D and significant experience with Autodesk 3D modeling programs.

• Drafting Quality Assurance: Meticulous attention to detail in checking drafting deliverables for accuracy and completeness.

• Australian Standards: Strong understanding and application of relevant Australian design and engineering standards.

• Autonomous Work Capability: Proven ability to work independently, manage workload, and make informed design decisions.

• Mechanical Component Understanding: Solid grasp of mechanical components and their integration within industrial systems.

• Client Requirement Adherence: Skill in translating client needs and specifications into practical design solutions.

Preferred Skills:

• Advanced Steel Expertise: Proven skills and practical application experience with Advanced Steel for structural design.

• SMP Design Experience: Previous skills or a demonstrated interest in expanding into Structural, Mechanical, and Piping (SMP) design.

• Pointcloud Scanning: Familiarity or experience with pointcloud scanning for design and verification purposes.

• AutoCAD Plant 3D Spec Development: Desirable experience in creating and managing AutoCAD Plant 3D specifications.

• AutoCAD Plant 3D Smart PID Integration: Desirable knowledge of integrating Smart PID with AutoCAD Plant 3D workflows.

• MicroStation 2D Proficiency: Occasional use or familiarity with MicroStation 2D.

• Autodesk Construction Cloud & Vault: Experience with these platforms for project management and data handling.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for 10+ years of experience, coupled with "Principal Designer," indicates a senior candidate who can lead technical design initiatives. The specific software requirements (AutoCAD Plant 3D, Advanced Steel) are critical and should be a primary focus for applicants. The distinction between required and desirable skills for specialized software like Spec Development and Smart PID integration is important for candidate self-assessment.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Project Showcase: A portfolio demonstrating successful completion of complex design projects from concept to detailed engineering, with clear visualization of 3D models and final outputs.

• Process Optimization Examples: Case studies or project examples illustrating how design choices led to improved efficiency, cost savings, or enhanced functionality in mineral processing or heavy industries.

• Software Proficiency Evidence: Visual evidence or descriptions of work produced using required software (AutoCAD, AutoCAD Plant 3D, Advanced Steel), highlighting complexity and skill level.

• Quality Assurance Documentation: Examples of how quality standards were applied and maintained in previous design deliverables, including any checking processes or documentation.

• Client Requirement Translation: Projects that clearly show the ability to interpret and implement client specifications and engineering concepts into practical designs.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design: Ability to document and articulate the design workflow from initial concept through to final design package, including any iterative design processes.

• System Integration: Documentation of how different design elements (e.g., mechanical, piping, structural) were integrated, particularly within 3D modeling environments.

• Quality Control Procedures: Examples of personal or team-based processes used to ensure the accuracy and completeness of design deliverables.

• Software Implementation: Description of how specific design software features were utilized to achieve project goals and overcome design challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Principal Designer role, the portfolio should emphasize leadership in design, problem-solving, and the ability to translate high-level concepts into robust, constructible designs. The focus should be on demonstrating mastery of 3D modeling tools and a deep understanding of the design lifecycle within heavy industries.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Competitive Salary: A remuneration package commensurate with the seniority and expertise of the role.

• Flexible Work Arrangements: Options for flexible working hours and/or hybrid work models to support work-life balance.

• Work-Life Balance: Company commitment to fostering a healthy work-life balance for all employees.

• Collaborative Workplace Culture: An environment that encourages teamwork, knowledge sharing, and mutual support.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for continuous learning, skill enhancement, and professional growth through training and development programs.

• Career Growth: Clear pathways for career advancement within Sedgman and the broader CIMIC Group.

• Health and Wellbeing Support: Access to comprehensive mental health and work/life services through the Sonder app.

• Project Diversity: Opportunity to contribute to a varied portfolio of projects across all engineering phases.

• Inclusive Culture: A welcoming and diverse workplace committed to equity and inclusion.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours are typically 40 hours per week. Sedgman offers flexible work arrangements, which may include adjusted start/end times or a hybrid on-site/remote model, subject to role requirements and team needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on publicly available data for senior engineering design roles in Australia. Actual compensation will depend on the candidate's specific experience, qualifications, and negotiation. The benefits listed are directly from the provided text and highlight Sedgman's commitment to employee well-being and development.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Mineral Processing, Mining Services, Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC). Sedgman operates within the global resources sector, a dynamic industry with a strong focus on efficiency, safety, and technological advancement. The company's involvement in "Energy Transition" suggests a forward-looking approach to evolving industry needs.

Company Size: Sedgman is a subsidiary of CIMIC Group Limited, a large, diversified global contractor. While Sedgman itself operates internationally with offices across multiple continents, its specific employee count within the group context indicates a substantial organization capable of undertaking large-scale projects. This size suggests a structured environment with established processes but also opportunities for impact.

Founded: Sedgman Pty Ltd was founded to provide specialized services to the mineral processing industry. Its history is built on technical expertise and proven project delivery. As a wholly owned subsidiary of CIMIC Group (founded in 1994 as Leighton Holdings), Sedgman benefits from the resources and stability of a major global entity.

Team Structure:

• Operations Focus: The role likely sits within a larger engineering or design department, possibly structured by discipline (e.g., Mechanical, Piping, Structural).

• Reporting: The Principal Designer would likely report to a Design Manager, Engineering Manager, or a Project Director, depending on project phase and organizational structure.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Close collaboration is expected with other engineering disciplines (Process, Electrical, Instrumentation, Structural), project management, procurement, construction, and potentially operations and maintenance teams.

Methodology:

• Design-Centric: Sedgman's core methodology revolves around providing complete solutions in mineral processing, emphasizing EPC delivery. This implies a strong focus on robust design, efficient procurement, and reliable construction.

• Innovation & Technical Capability: The company highlights its specialized technical expertise and advanced commercial capabilities, suggesting a culture that values innovation and continuous improvement in design and project execution.

• Client-Focused: Sedgman aims to provide solutions valued by clients, indicating a commitment to understanding and meeting specific project requirements and performance expectations.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context places Sedgman as a significant player in the mineral processing EPC sector, backed by the strength of CIMIC Group. The mention of "Energy Transition" signals a modern outlook, which may influence project types and technological adoption. The Principal Designer role is crucial for translating this methodology into tangible engineering designs.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Principal Designer

• This is a senior-level position within the design engineering function. It signifies a high degree of technical expertise, proven experience, and the ability to lead others.

• Responsibilities extend beyond individual contribution to include technical direction, quality oversight, and potentially mentoring.

Reporting Structure:

• The Principal Designer will likely report to a Design Manager or Engineering Manager, who oversees multiple disciplines or projects.

• They will manage or influence the work of other designers and drafters within their specific project or discipline focus.

Operations Impact:

• The Principal Designer's work directly impacts the feasibility, efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness of mineral processing plants.

• High-quality designs minimize construction issues, reduce operational downtime, and ensure plant performance meets client expectations.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas such as advanced SMP design, automation integration, or specialized mineral processing equipment design.

• Leadership Progression: Transition into roles such as Lead Designer, Design Manager, or Engineering Manager, with greater responsibility for team leadership, project strategy, and client management.

• Project Management: Develop skills in project management to oversee entire engineering packages or smaller projects.

• Cross-Disciplinary Expertise: Expand knowledge into related engineering disciplines to offer more holistic design solutions.

• Industry Influence: Contribute to industry standards development or innovation initiatives within Sedgman and the broader CIMIC Group.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Principal" title inherently suggests a growth path. For a Principal Designer, growth might involve moving into management, broader project leadership, or becoming a recognized subject matter expert within the company or industry. The connection to CIMIC Group also offers potential career mobility across diverse sectors.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Sedgman's operations are typically based in professional office environments designed for engineering and project management teams. These environments foster collaboration and provide the necessary infrastructure for design work.

Office Location(s): The role is based in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. Sedgman also has offices in Canada, China, Chile, and South Africa, indicating a global presence, but this specific role is on-site in Brisbane.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Spaces: The office will likely feature open-plan areas for team interaction, alongside meeting rooms and private offices for focused work and discussions.

• Technology Infrastructure: Access to high-performance workstations, reliable network connectivity, and advanced design software (AutoCAD, Plant 3D, Advanced Steel, etc.) is essential and expected.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for daily interaction with fellow designers, engineers, project managers, and support staff. This environment encourages the exchange of ideas and problem-solving.

• Project-Based: Work is often project-driven, meaning the pace and focus can shift based on project phases and deadlines.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is typically 40 hours per week (Monday to Friday).

• Sedgman offers flexible work arrangements, which may include options for adjusted start/end times. This flexibility is crucial for operations professionals who may need to balance demanding project schedules with personal commitments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "On-site" nature of the role in Brisbane implies that candidates should be located in or willing to relocate to the area. The description of the workspace emphasizes a professional, collaborative, and technologically equipped environment crucial for complex design tasks.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and portfolio to assess alignment with required skills, experience, and qualifications.

• Technical Interview: In-depth discussion focusing on design methodologies, software proficiency (AutoCAD, Plant 3D, Advanced Steel), experience with mineral processing projects, and understanding of Australian standards. Expect technical questions related to piping layout, 3D modeling, and quality assurance.

• Portfolio Presentation: A dedicated session where candidates present selected projects from their portfolio, detailing their role, design challenges, solutions implemented, and the impact of their work.

• Behavioral Interview: Assessment of soft skills, leadership potential, problem-solving abilities, and cultural fit with Sedgman's values (collaboration, safety, innovation). Questions may focus on how you handle complex design issues, work autonomously, and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams.

• Final Interview: May involve senior management or project leaders to discuss overall fit, career aspirations, and finalize terms.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-5 of your most relevant and impactful projects that demonstrate your Principal Designer capabilities, particularly in mineral processing or heavy industries.

• Highlight Leadership: For each project, clearly articulate your role, responsibilities, and any leadership or mentoring contributions.

• Showcase 3D Modeling: Include high-quality renderings or walkthroughs of 3D models created using AutoCAD Plant 3D and/or Advanced Steel. Emphasize complexity and detail.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, quantify the outcomes of your design work (e.g., efficiency improvements, cost savings, reduction in constructability issues).

• Explain Processes: Be prepared to discuss your design processes, quality assurance methods, and how you adhere to standards.

• Tailor to Sedgman: Research Sedgman's projects and values, and tailor your presentation to show how your skills and experience align with their needs, especially regarding mineral processing and EPC delivery.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Scenario: You might be given a simplified design problem or a scenario related to piping layout or 3D modeling within a mineral processing context.

• Problem-Solving: Be ready to articulate your approach to solving a complex design challenge, focusing on logical steps, consideration of constraints, and innovative solutions.

• Software Application: Practice demonstrating your proficiency in key software if asked to sketch or explain a process within the software environment.

• Standard Application: Prepare to discuss how you would apply Australian standards to a given design situation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to rigorously assess technical prowess, project experience, and leadership potential. A strong, well-prepared portfolio is critical for this role. Candidates should anticipate both technical deep-dives and discussions about their strategic approach to design challenges.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• AutoCAD 2D: Essential for general drafting and 2D design work.

• AutoCAD Plant 3D: Core software for 3D piping design, plant layout, and generating intelligent models.

• Advanced Steel: Critical for structural steel detailing and modeling, often integrated with plant design.

• Autodesk 3D Modeling Programs: General proficiency expected across the Autodesk suite.

• Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC): Increasingly important for project collaboration, document management, and model coordination.

• Autodesk Vault: Data management software for design files and version control.

• MicroStation 2D: Desirable, for occasional use in environments where it's prevalent.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly mentioned, designers often use reporting features within CAD software to extract Bills of Materials (BOMs), isometric drawings, and other project documentation.

CRM & Automation:

• Primarily design-focused tools are listed. CRM and automation tools are more relevant to sales, marketing, or broader business operations, rather than direct design engineering responsibilities. However, understanding how design data integrates with ERP or project management systems (potentially via ACC/Vault) is valuable.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in the specified Autodesk design suite (AutoCAD, Plant 3D, Advanced Steel) is non-negotiable for this role. Experience with project data management tools like Vault and ACC is a significant advantage, reflecting modern design workflows in large EPC companies.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: Sedgman, as part of CIMIC Group, places a paramount emphasis on health and safety. This translates to meticulous design practices that ensure the safety of construction and operational personnel.

• Innovation & Technical Excellence: A commitment to pushing the boundaries of engineering and design to deliver cutting-edge solutions for clients. This involves embracing new technologies and methodologies.

• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and exceeding client expectations through high-quality deliverables and responsive service.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive environment where individuals from diverse disciplines work together seamlessly to achieve project goals.

• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding ethical standards in all business dealings and taking responsibility for the quality and impact of one's work.

• Efficiency & Continuous Improvement: Striving for operational excellence through optimized processes and a proactive approach to identifying and implementing improvements.

Collaboration Style:

• Multidisciplinary: Expect a highly collaborative environment where designers work closely with process engineers, mechanical engineers, structural engineers, project managers, and other stakeholders.

• Data-Driven: Design decisions are informed by data, standards, and project requirements, with clear documentation and communication.

• Feedback-Oriented: A culture that encourages constructive feedback to refine designs and improve processes, ensuring the best possible project outcomes.

• Problem-Solving Focused: The team likely adopts a proactive and collaborative approach to identifying and resolving design challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's values, particularly safety and innovation, are critical for operations and engineering roles. Candidates should demonstrate how their work ethic and approach align with these principles, especially in their design methodologies and problem-solving strategies.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complex Design Integration: Balancing the requirements of multiple engineering disciplines (mechanical, piping, structural) within a single 3D model can be complex.

• Adherence to Evolving Standards: Keeping up-to-date with and applying the latest Australian standards and industry best practices in a rapidly changing environment.

• Project Deadlines: Managing demanding project schedules and delivering high-quality designs within tight timeframes.

• Technical Problem Solving: Resolving intricate design issues that arise during conceptualization or detailed engineering phases.

• Adapting to New Technologies: Embracing and mastering new design software features and methodologies, such as advanced BIM integration or pointcloud scanning.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Software Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in Autodesk products, including specialized modules for Plant 3D, Advanced Steel, and BIM workflows.

• Industry Certifications: Pursuing certifications relevant to design engineering, project management, or specific industry standards.

• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Learning about other engineering disciplines to enhance understanding of integrated project delivery.

• Mentorship Programs: Potential to be mentored by senior engineers or to mentor junior staff, fostering leadership skills.

• Project Diversity: Working on a wide range of mineral processing projects, from conceptual studies to full EPC delivery, providing broad experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for senior design roles in complex engineering projects. Sedgman's commitment to professional development offers clear pathways for individuals to overcome these challenges and advance their careers.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex piping layout you designed for a mineral processing plant. What were the key challenges, and how did you ensure constructability and operability?" (Focus on process, problem-solving, and technical detail)

• "How do you ensure your 3D models are accurate, complete, and adhere to both client specifications and Australian standards?" (Focus on quality assurance and standards application)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Sedgman and our work in the mineral processing industry?" (Demonstrate research and interest)

• "How do you approach collaboration with other engineering disciplines and project managers?" (Highlight teamwork and communication skills)

• "How do you stay current with evolving design standards and technologies in the heavy industry sector?" (Show commitment to continuous learning)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your presentation logically: Project Overview -> Your Role & Responsibilities -> Design Challenges -> Solutions & Methodology (with tool specifics) -> Outcomes & Impact -> Lessons Learned.

• Visuals: Use high-quality screenshots, renderings, and potentially short walkthrough videos of your 3D models. Ensure clarity and detail.

• Quantify: Whenever possible, use numbers and data to demonstrate the impact of your design work (e.g., % improvement, cost savings, reduction in rework).

• Storytelling: Frame your projects as stories of problem-solving and successful delivery. Explain why certain decisions were made.

• Software Demonstration: Be prepared to briefly explain how specific software features were utilized to achieve results, especially for Plant 3D and Advanced Steel.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on showcasing not just technical skills but also a strategic approach to design, problem-solving, and collaboration. The portfolio presentation is a key opportunity to demonstrate these capabilities effectively.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Principal Designer position:

• Submit your CV and a comprehensive portfolio through the "Apply Now" link on the Sedgman careers portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio prominently features projects demonstrating your experience in mineral processing, piping layout, and advanced 3D modeling using AutoCAD Plant 3D and Advanced Steel. Highlight your contributions to projects from conceptualization to detailed engineering.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to emphasize keywords from the job description, such as "Principal Designer," "Mineral Processing," "3D Modeling," "AutoCAD Plant 3D," "Advanced Steel," "Piping Layout," and "Australian Standards." Quantify achievements where possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, problem-solving methodologies, and technical expertise. Prepare specific examples from your portfolio that align with the role's responsibilities and Sedgman's industry focus.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Sedgman's projects, values, and recent news, particularly regarding their involvement in energy transition initiatives. Understand their EPC approach and commitment to safety and innovation.

⚠️ 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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