Project Design Manager, MEP (Buildings/Data Center)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Project Design Manager, MEP (Buildings/Data Center)

Company: Aurecon

Location: Bangkok, Thailand

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Engineering / Project Management

Date Posted: April 14, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage multi-disciplinary engineering design teams for complex building and data center projects, ensuring successful project delivery from concept to completion.

• Serve as the primary client liaison, managing day-to-day project communications and ensuring client expectations are met and exceeded.

• Oversee the comprehensive production of design documentation, including detailed drawings, specifications, reports, calculations, and BIM models, adhering to rigorous quality standards.

• Drive the integration and adoption of digital engineering tools and Building Information Modeling (BIM) processes to enhance design efficiency, collaboration, and project outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a senior-level position focused on the technical and managerial aspects of MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) design within the building and data center sectors. The emphasis on BIM, digital tools, and multi-disciplinary coordination suggests a need for a candidate who can bridge technical engineering expertise with robust project management capabilities in a hybrid work environment.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Spearhead the end-to-end delivery of building and data center projects, encompassing initial design conceptualization, detailed design development, construction oversight, and final project review.

• Act as the key point of contact for client teams, proactively managing project-related communications, resolving issues, and fostering strong client relationships.

• Lead and coordinate multi-disciplinary engineering teams, including mechanical, electrical, civil, structural, security, architectural, and ICT specialists, to ensure cohesive and integrated project designs.

• Collaborate effectively with local and regional design disciplines to maintain the integrity and synergy of the overall project design.

• Drive the creation and refinement of comprehensive design documentation, including detailed design drawings, technical specifications, design reports, engineering calculations, and advanced BIM models.

• Chair and facilitate internal and external design review meetings, ensuring clear communication, efficient decision-making, and timely resolution of design challenges.

• Manage project components, including budgets, schedules, quality assurance processes, and client feedback mechanisms, ensuring strict adherence to project constraints and objectives.

• Contribute to workload management and resource forecasting, and actively participate in the preparation of compelling proposal documentation for new business opportunities.

• Conduct thorough reviews of project deliverables to ensure compliance with relevant engineering codes, standards, regulatory requirements, and client specifications.

• Cultivate and maintain robust relationships with clients, identifying and developing potential new business opportunities through exceptional project performance and strategic engagement.

• Apply advanced project management principles to plan, execute, and deliver infrastructure projects of varying complexity, ensuring alignment with Aurecon's methodologies and client needs.

• Manage work programs meticulously to guarantee delivery according to client expectations, established timeframes, and precise specifications.

• Engage with a diverse range of stakeholders, effectively managing competing priorities and ensuring alignment across project teams and external parties.

• Support multiple concurrent projects throughout their entire lifecycle, including planning, design verification, tendering, contract administration, financial management, project scheduling, and comprehensive risk management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The breadth of responsibilities indicates a need for a candidate with extensive experience in managing complex, multi-faceted projects. Emphasis on client liaison, team leadership across diverse engineering disciplines, and hands-on BIM/digital tool proficiency are critical. The role requires a proactive approach to business development and a deep understanding of the entire project lifecycle, from initial concept to contract administration.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: A Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering is required.

Experience: A minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in Buildings Mechanical or Electrical Design, installation, testing, and commissioning is essential. Proven experience in leading the delivery of multi-disciplinary projects within modern commercial and industrial buildings is also a prerequisite.

Required Skills:

• Project Management: Demonstrated ability to lead large project teams, manage budgets, schedules, and quality assurance for complex engineering projects.

• MEP Design Expertise: In-depth knowledge of Mechanical and Electrical systems design for buildings, including installation, testing, and commissioning principles.

• Multi-disciplinary Coordination: Proven experience in coordinating and integrating designs across various engineering disciplines (Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, Structural, ICT, Security, Architectural).

• BIM Proficiency: High level of computer literacy with significant exposure and practical application of Building Information Modeling (BIM) processes and tools, specifically Revit.

• Digital Tools Literacy: Proficiency in using digital engineering tools such as Autodesk Construction Cloud, Autodesk Navisworks, and BIM360 for design review, issue identification, and resolution.

• Client Relationship Management: Strong skills in building and maintaining effective relationships with clients, identifying business development opportunities.

• Technical Documentation: Ability to lead the production of high-quality design documentation, including drawings, specifications, reports, and calculations.

• Problem-Solving: Advanced analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to investigate, analyze, and provide effective solutions.

Preferred Skills:

• Data Center Experience: Specific experience in the design and delivery of data center projects will be highly advantageous.

• Engineering Codes & Standards: Intermediate to advanced knowledge of relevant engineering codes, standards, and best practices.

• Resource Management: Experience in workload management, resource forecasting, and proposal preparation.

• Risk & Contract Management: Familiarity with risk management principles and contract administration processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for 10+ years of experience, coupled with specific technical skills in MEP, BIM, and digital tools, positions this as a senior role. The preference for data center experience highlights a specialization within the broader building sector. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate not only technical competence but also strong leadership and client-facing capabilities.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Delivery Case Studies: Showcase a minimum of three major building or data center projects where you led multi-disciplinary design teams, detailing your role, challenges, solutions, and project outcomes.

• BIM Integration Examples: Provide examples or case studies demonstrating your experience with BIM processes, including the use of Revit for design coordination, clash detection (e.g., using Navisworks or BIM360), and the generation of design documentation.

• Client Management & Business Development: Include evidence of successful client relationship management, perhaps through client testimonials or examples of identifying and securing new project opportunities.

• MEP Design Documentation Samples: Present a selection of high-quality technical documents such as design reports, detailed drawings, or specifications that exemplify your technical rigor and attention to detail.

Process Documentation:

• Project Lifecycle Management: Document your approach to managing projects across their entire lifecycle, from initial planning and design through to tendering, contract administration, and final close-out, emphasizing efficiency and quality.

• Design Review & QA Processes: Outline your methodology for conducting internal and external design reviews, ensuring compliance with codes and standards, and implementing quality assurance measures.

• Stakeholder Engagement & Communication: Detail your strategies for effective stakeholder engagement, including communication plans, meeting facilitation, and conflict resolution in complex project environments.

• Digital Tool Implementation: Describe your experience in implementing and driving the use of digital tools like BIM, Autodesk Construction Cloud, and Navisworks to streamline workflows, improve collaboration, and enhance design outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role of this seniority and technical focus, a portfolio demonstrating practical application of skills is crucial. Candidates should highlight their ability to manage complex processes, leverage digital tools effectively, and deliver tangible results that showcase their project leadership and technical expertise in MEP design and multi-disciplinary coordination.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for a Project Design Manager with 10+ years of experience in Bangkok, Thailand, specializing in MEP for buildings and data centers, the estimated annual salary range is THB 1,500,000 - THB 2,500,000. This estimate accounts for the senior level of the role, specialized technical expertise, and the cost of living in Bangkok.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and potentially dependents.

• Retirement Savings Plan: Contributions to a provident fund or similar retirement savings scheme.

• Performance Bonuses: Potential for annual bonuses based on individual and company performance.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for ongoing training, certifications, and attendance at industry conferences.

• Annual Leave: Generous paid time off, including annual leave, sick leave, and public holidays.

• Hybrid Work Arrangement: Flexibility to balance on-site and remote work, promoting work-life integration.

• Travel Opportunities: Potential for international travel for project collaboration or business development, depending on project needs.

Working Hours: The standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday. However, given the project-driven nature of the role, occasional overtime may be required to meet critical project deadlines and client demands. Flexibility in work schedule may be available as part of the hybrid arrangement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on publicly available data for similar roles in Bangkok. Actual compensation may vary based on the candidate's specific qualifications, experience, and Aurecon's internal compensation structure. Benefits are typical for a senior professional role in an international consulting firm.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Aurecon operates within the Engineering, Design, and Advisory sector, serving a broad range of markets including Buildings, Infrastructure, and Energy. The company is committed to delivering innovative and sustainable solutions.

Company Size: With over 7,800 experts across 11 global locations, Aurecon is a large, international firm, providing employees with opportunities to work on diverse and impactful projects.

Founded: Aurecon has a rich history spanning over 85 years, leveraging extensive experience and a legacy of innovation to tackle complex global challenges.

Team Structure:

• The role sits within the Buildings business unit, focusing on MEP design for commercial and industrial projects, with a specialization in data centers.

• The Project Design Manager will lead a multi-disciplinary team of engineers, designers, and drafters, reporting to a senior leadership figure within the Buildings division or a Program Director.

Methodology:

• Design-Led Thinking: Aurecon embraces a design-led approach, integrating digital engineering, user experience, and sustainability to create future-ready solutions.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Emphasis on using data analytics and insights to inform project planning, design choices, and performance optimization.

• Process Optimization: Continuous focus on refining workflows, implementing best practices, and leveraging technology to enhance project delivery efficiency and quality.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Aurecon's global presence and focus on innovation, sustainability, and digital transformation present a dynamic work environment. The company culture likely values collaboration, continuous learning, and a forward-thinking approach to engineering challenges, particularly in high-growth sectors like data centers.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior-level Project Design Manager role, requiring significant technical expertise and leadership experience. It sits at a crucial point in the technical career path, bridging specialized engineering knowledge with comprehensive project management responsibilities.

Reporting Structure: The Project Design Manager will likely report to a Director or Senior Manager within the Buildings or Project Management division. They will, in turn, lead and manage a team of engineers, designers, and drafters across various disciplines.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct and significant impact on project success, client satisfaction, and Aurecon's reputation. By ensuring high-quality, efficient, and innovative MEP designs, the Project Design Manager contributes to the successful delivery of critical infrastructure projects, directly influencing project profitability and client retention.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepening expertise in data center design or other specialized MEP areas, potentially leading to Principal or Technical Fellow roles.

• Project Management Leadership: Progression into larger-scale program management or portfolio management roles, overseeing multiple complex projects.

• Client Relationship Management & Business Development: Transitioning into roles with a stronger focus on client strategy, account management, and securing new business.

• Global Mobility: Opportunities to work on international projects or relocate to other Aurecon offices based on career aspirations and business needs.

• Mentorship & Training: Developing leadership and mentoring skills by guiding junior engineers and contributing to Aurecon's internal training programs.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for growth, either through deepening technical specialization or expanding into broader project and program leadership. Aurecon's global reach provides significant opportunities for career advancement and international experience within the engineering and design consulting field.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Aurecon's Bangkok office, which is expected to be a modern, professional workspace designed to foster collaboration and innovation. The company promotes a hybrid work arrangement, allowing for a balance between office-based work and remote flexibility.

Office Location(s): The primary office location is Bangkok, Thailand. Specific details regarding the office address and accessibility would be provided during the application process.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Spaces: The office likely features open-plan areas, meeting rooms, and breakout zones designed to facilitate teamwork and knowledge sharing among design professionals.

• Technology & Tools: Access to state-of-the-art design software, BIM platforms, and communication technologies necessary for executing complex engineering projects.

• Team Interaction: Regular opportunities for face-to-face interaction with peers, senior management, and cross-functional team members, crucial for design coordination and team cohesion.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week, typically from Monday to Friday. The hybrid model offers flexibility, allowing employees to structure their week to optimize productivity and work-life balance, while ensuring essential on-site presence for critical collaborative activities and client meetings.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work environment at Aurecon's Bangkok office is designed to support both focused individual work and dynamic team collaboration. Professionals in this role can expect a blend of autonomy and structured interaction, supported by modern office facilities and digital tools.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A preliminary review of your CV and application to assess alignment with the core requirements, particularly regarding experience level and technical background.

• Technical Interview: An in-depth discussion with hiring managers or senior engineers focusing on your MEP design experience, BIM proficiency, project management methodologies, and understanding of data center or building systems. Be prepared to discuss specific technical challenges you've overcome.

• Portfolio Presentation: A dedicated session where you will present selected case studies from your portfolio, detailing your contributions, leadership, and the impact of your work on project outcomes. Focus on demonstrating your multi-disciplinary coordination and digital tool application skills.

• Behavioral & Situational Assessment: Questions aimed at evaluating your leadership style, problem-solving approach, client management skills, and ability to work within Aurecon's culture and values.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior executive or director to discuss strategic fit, long-term career aspirations, and confirm suitability for the role.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-4 key projects that best showcase your leadership in MEP design, multi-disciplinary coordination, and successful project delivery, with a preference for data center or complex building examples.

• Quantify Achievements: For each project, clearly articulate your role, the project's scale, key challenges, the solutions you implemented (especially design innovations or process improvements), and quantifiable results (e.g., cost savings, schedule adherence, energy efficiency improvements, client satisfaction metrics).

• Demonstrate BIM/Digital Proficiency: Include specific examples of how you utilized BIM tools (Revit, Navisworks, BIM360, Autodesk Construction Cloud) for design coordination, clash detection, issue resolution, and documentation generation. Show screenshots or brief workflow demonstrations if possible.

• Highlight Leadership & Collaboration: Emphasize your experience in leading diverse engineering teams, chairing design meetings, and effectively communicating with clients and stakeholders.

• Tailor to Aurecon: Briefly research Aurecon's recent projects and values, and subtly align your portfolio presentation to demonstrate how your experience and approach fit their strategic objectives, particularly in innovation and sustainability.

Challenge Preparation:

• MEP Design Scenario: Be ready to discuss how you would approach a hypothetical MEP design challenge for a complex building or data center, considering factors like energy efficiency, sustainability, and integration with other disciplines.

• BIM Implementation Strategy: Prepare to outline how you would implement or improve BIM processes within a project team, addressing potential challenges and advocating for its benefits.

• Stakeholder Conflict Resolution: Practice articulating how you would manage competing priorities or resolve conflicts among different engineering disciplines or between the project team and the client.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to thoroughly assess both technical expertise and leadership capabilities. A well-prepared, strategically curated portfolio is essential for demonstrating practical experience and impact. Candidates should be ready to articulate their problem-solving approach and leadership style in detail.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• MEP Design Software: Proficiency in industry-standard Mechanical and Electrical design software is assumed.

• BIM Software:

  • Revit: Essential for creating and managing BIM models for MEP systems.
  • Autodesk Navisworks: Crucial for clash detection, 3D model review, and coordination across multiple disciplines.
  • Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) / BIM360: For collaborative workflows, document management, and project coordination in a cloud-based environment.

• Project Management Software: Experience with tools for scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking (e.g., MS Project, Primavera P6, or similar).

Analytics & Reporting:

• BIM Data Extraction: Ability to extract data from BIM models for reporting on quantities, specifications, and performance metrics.

• Performance Metrics Tracking: Familiarity with tracking and reporting on key project performance indicators related to budget, schedule, quality, and technical compliance.

• Visualization Tools: While not explicitly mentioned, experience with tools that can help visualize project data and design outcomes would be beneficial.

CRM & Automation:

• Client Relationship Management (CRM): While not a primary sales role, understanding CRM principles for managing client interactions and identifying business opportunities is valuable.

• Workflow Automation: Experience with or an understanding of how to automate repetitive tasks within design and project management workflows using digital tools.

• Integration Platforms: Awareness of how different software platforms (e.g., BIM, project management, client communication) can be integrated to streamline processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong command of the Autodesk suite, particularly Revit and Navisworks, along with cloud-based collaboration platforms like ACC/BIM360, is critical for this role. Experience with project management software is also a key requirement for managing complex projects effectively.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Ingenuity: Aurecon actively seeks innovative solutions and encourages creative thinking to solve complex engineering challenges, fostering a culture where new ideas are valued and explored.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: The company emphasizes working together across disciplines, geographies, and functions to achieve collective success, promoting a supportive and integrated team environment.

• Client Focus & Partnership: Building strong, long-term relationships with clients is paramount, focusing on understanding their needs and delivering exceptional value through trusted advisory and technical excellence.

• Sustainability & Legacy: A commitment to creating sustainable solutions that have a positive and lasting impact on the environment and communities for future generations.

• Agility & Adaptability: In a rapidly changing world, Aurecon values flexibility, nimbleness, and the ability to adapt to new technologies, market demands, and project requirements.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The culture promotes seamless collaboration between MEP engineers and other design disciplines (Civil, Structural, Architectural, ICT, Security), ensuring holistic project development.

• Open Communication & Feedback: Encouraging an environment where open dialogue, constructive feedback, and knowledge sharing are commonplace, leading to continuous improvement in design and project execution.

• Mentorship & Knowledge Sharing: A culture that supports the transfer of knowledge from experienced professionals to emerging talent, fostering professional growth and development across the team.

📝 Enhancement Note: Aurecon's values suggest a collaborative, forward-thinking, and client-centric environment. Professionals who thrive on innovation, teamwork, and making a tangible impact will find this culture appealing. The emphasis on sustainability and legacy aligns with modern engineering practices.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Complex Multi-Disciplinary Projects: Coordinating diverse engineering teams with potentially competing priorities requires strong leadership, communication, and conflict resolution skills.

• Integrating Advanced Digital Technologies: Ensuring effective adoption and utilization of BIM and digital tools across project teams, addressing potential resistance to change or varying skill levels.

• Meeting Evolving Client Demands: Adapting to increasingly sophisticated client requirements, particularly in areas like sustainability, energy efficiency, and smart building technologies.

• Navigating Regulatory & Compliance Landscapes: Keeping abreast of and ensuring adherence to evolving building codes, industry standards, and local regulations, especially in complex projects like data centers.

• Balancing Project Demands with Work-Life Integration: Effectively managing workload, deadlines, and stakeholder expectations within a hybrid work model to maintain personal well-being and productivity.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced BIM & Digital Engineering Training: Access to specialized training programs to deepen expertise in the latest BIM methodologies, software, and digital construction technologies.

• Data Center Specialization: Opportunities to gain in-depth knowledge and project experience in the highly specialized field of data center design and engineering.

• Project & Program Management Certifications: Support for pursuing professional certifications such as PMP, RMP, or other relevant project management credentials.

• Leadership & Mentorship Programs: Formal and informal opportunities to develop leadership capabilities, mentor junior staff, and engage in career development discussions with senior leaders.

• Industry Conferences & Seminars: Participation in key industry events to stay current with trends, network with peers, and represent Aurecon.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant opportunities for professional growth by tackling complex technical and managerial challenges. Aurecon's commitment to learning and development, combined with the specialized nature of data center projects, offers a strong foundation for career advancement in the engineering and design sector.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Project Leadership & Delivery: "Describe a complex multi-disciplinary project you led from design through to construction. What were the biggest challenges, how did you overcome them, and what was the ultimate outcome?" Focus on your leadership, problem-solving, and coordination strategies.

• BIM & Digital Tools: "How have you leveraged BIM and digital tools (e.g., Navisworks, ACC) to improve design coordination, identify clashes, and enhance project delivery on past projects? Provide specific examples." Be ready to discuss your experience with workflows and data management.

• Client Management & Business Development: "How do you ensure client satisfaction throughout a project lifecycle, and how have you identified and acted upon opportunities for new business with existing clients?" Prepare examples of building strong client relationships and contributing to revenue growth.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Understanding Aurecon's Values: "How do Aurecon's values of innovation, collaboration, and sustainability align with your own professional approach and past experiences?" Research their recent projects and initiatives.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: "Describe your approach to leading and motivating a diverse engineering team. How do you foster a collaborative environment and ensure effective communication across different disciplines?"

• Approach to Problem Solving: "Walk us through a challenging technical problem you encountered in MEP design or project management. What was your process for analyzing the issue and arriving at a solution?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structured Narrative: For each portfolio piece, clearly outline the project context, your specific role and responsibilities, the key challenges faced, the solutions implemented (especially those involving BIM or innovative design), and the measurable outcomes.

• Visual Aids: Utilize slides with clear visuals – diagrams, screenshots of BIM models, project photos – to illustrate your points effectively. Avoid text-heavy slides.

• Highlight Key Skills: Explicitly connect your experience to the required skills: MEP design, project management, multi-disciplinary coordination, BIM proficiency, and client management.

• Demonstrate Impact: Quantify achievements wherever possible (e.g., % improvement in energy efficiency, reduction in design conflicts, adherence to budget/schedule).

• Engage and Converse: Treat the presentation as a discussion. Be prepared to answer detailed questions about your work and demonstrate your thought process.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare by thoroughly reviewing their project experience, focusing on quantifiable achievements and specific examples of leadership and technical problem-solving. Understanding Aurecon's values and strategic focus, particularly in data centers and digital engineering, will be crucial for tailoring responses.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Project Design Manager position at Aurecon:

• Submit your application through the provided Workday portal link.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 3-4 key projects that best demonstrate your MEP design leadership, multi-disciplinary project management, and proficiency with BIM/digital tools. Ensure each case study includes clear objectives, your specific contributions, the challenges overcome, and quantifiable results.

• Tailor Your Resume: Align your resume to highlight your 10+ years of experience in MEP design, project leadership, and experience with data centers or complex buildings. Emphasize keywords such as "MEP Design," "Project Management," "BIM," "Revit," "Autodesk Construction Cloud," "Multi-disciplinary Coordination," and "Data Center."

• Prepare Your Presentation: Practice presenting your portfolio case studies, focusing on a clear narrative, visual aids, and demonstrating your problem-solving skills, leadership approach, and impact on project success. Be ready to discuss your experience with Aurecon's specific technology stack.

• Research Aurecon: Familiarize yourself with Aurecon's global presence, their work in the Buildings and Data Center sectors, their commitment to innovation and sustainability, and their core values. This will help you articulate your fit during interviews.

⚠️ 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.