Senior Design Manager (Airfield + Infrastructure)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Design Manager (Airfield + Infrastructure)
Company: Parsons Corporation
Location: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Job Type: Full-Time
Category: Engineering & Construction Operations / Design Management
Date Posted: January 15, 2026
Experience Level: 15+ Years
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the technical design delivery of complex airside and airfield infrastructure projects, ensuring adherence to international aviation and operational standards.
• Manage multi-disciplinary engineering teams and consultants to achieve high-quality design outputs within project timelines and budgets.
• Oversee compliance with ICAO standards, local regulations, and airport operational requirements throughout the project lifecycle.
• Drive the integration of BIM and digital design technologies to enhance coordination, clash detection, and overall design efficiency.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and technical excellence within the design department.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is strategically positioned within the Integrated Design Delivery Partnership (IDDP) model, emphasizing a collaborative and integrated approach to project delivery. The focus on "Airside & Airfield" specifically targets critical airport operational areas, requiring a deep understanding of aviation infrastructure.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the technical design delivery of all airside and airfield infrastructure works, ensuring alignment with IDDP objectives and operational requirements.
• Develop and maintain technical delivery strategies, design criteria, and performance standards for airside and airfield projects.
• Coordinate multi-disciplinary design activities across apron areas, taxiways, aircraft stands, and related systems, ensuring seamless integration.
• Ensure all designs comply with ICAO standards, local building codes, ESTIDAMA requirements, and airport operational standards.
• Oversee BIM implementation and digital design coordination, utilizing platforms like BIM 360 and Navisworks for clash detection and federated model reviews.
• Lead the identification and mitigation of design-related risks impacting cost, schedule, or performance, and facilitate value engineering workshops.
• Monitor design deliverables against the overall project schedule, coordinating with Program Controls to track progress and implement corrective actions.
• Liaise effectively with Abu Dhabi Airports, design consultants, regulatory authorities, and other key stakeholders to secure technical approvals and resolve challenges.
• Lead constructability reviews and promote Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA) principles to optimize construction efficiency.
• Mentor design engineers and technical staff, fostering technical excellence, collaborative teamwork, and knowledge sharing.

📝 Enhancement Note: The extensive list of responsibilities highlights the senior nature of this role, requiring not only technical expertise but also strong leadership, program management, and stakeholder engagement capabilities. The emphasis on IDDP, BIM, and specific Abu Dhabi standards points to a project environment demanding sophisticated project controls and integrated workflows.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management, or a related technical discipline.
• Master's degree in a relevant field is preferred.
• Professional registration or certification (e.g., P.E., CEng, PMP, CCM, or equivalent) is highly advantageous.

Experience:

• Minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in airside and airfield infrastructure design, engineering, and delivery.
• Proven track record of managing multi-disciplinary technical teams and overseeing large, complex airport or infrastructure projects.
• Extensive experience in design management, coordination, and stakeholder engagement, particularly within IDDP or similar integrated delivery models.
• Demonstrated success in delivering airport terminal, airside, or aviation infrastructure projects.

Required Skills:

• Deep understanding of airside and airfield infrastructure systems and their interdependencies (apron, taxiways, aircraft stands, airfield lighting).
• Comprehensive knowledge of international design and construction codes, including ICAO, NFPA, IBC, ESTIDAMA, and local Abu Dhabi authority standards.
• Proficiency in design coordination tools and project management software (e.g., BIM 360, Revit, Navisworks, Primavera P6, MS Project).
• Exceptional problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making abilities with a strong attention to detail.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills with a collaborative, team-oriented approach.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, work under pressure, and deliver results in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Skills:

• Prior experience delivering major airport terminal projects, including design delivery, systems integration, and stakeholder coordination.
• Understanding of sustainability standards (e.g., ESTIDAMA, LEED, BREEAM) and their integration into airport infrastructure design.
• Experience working in the GCC region or Middle East, with familiarity of local construction practices and the regulatory environment.
• Knowledge of Integrated Design Delivery Partnership (IDDP) or Design-Build delivery models.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a professional registration or certification, coupled with 15+ years of experience and specific knowledge of GCC/Middle East practices, indicates a need for a seasoned professional capable of navigating complex international projects and regulatory landscapes.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrable experience in leading the technical design delivery of complex airside and airfield infrastructure projects.
• Case studies showcasing successful management of multi-disciplinary engineering teams and consultants.
• Examples of designs that meet ICAO standards, local building codes, ESTIDAMA, and airport operational requirements.
• Documentation of projects where BIM and digital design coordination (e.g., BIM 360, Navisworks) were effectively utilized for clash detection and integration.
• Evidence of successful risk management, value engineering initiatives, and constructability reviews.

Process Documentation:

• Workflows illustrating the process for developing and maintaining technical delivery strategies, design criteria, and performance standards.
• Documentation of design review processes, including technical completeness, constructability, and compliance assessments.
• Examples of interface management processes for resolving complex interdependencies between airside/airfield systems and adjacent infrastructure.
• Documentation on how constructability and Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA) principles were integrated into the design process.
• Records of continuous improvement initiatives, lessons learned documentation, and knowledge-sharing practices implemented within design teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to showcase a portfolio that clearly articulates their project leadership, technical authority, and process-driven approach to design management, with a strong emphasis on integrated project delivery and digital tools.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Given the seniority of the role (15+ years of experience), the location (Abu Dhabi, UAE), and the nature of the project (major infrastructure), the estimated annual salary range for a Senior Design Manager in this region typically falls between AED 600,000 to AED 900,000 (approximately USD 163,500 to USD 245,000). This range can vary based on the candidate's specific qualifications, experience, and the final negotiation.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage for employee and dependents.
• Generous paid time off, including annual leave and public holidays.
• Relocation assistance and housing allowance or provided accommodation.
• Flights/travel allowances for home country visits.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Retirement savings plan or end-of-service benefits as per UAE labor law.
• Potential for performance-based bonuses and project completion incentives.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours are typically 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday.
• Specific working hours may vary based on project demands and site activities, potentially requiring flexibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimations are based on industry benchmarks for senior engineering management roles in major infrastructure projects within the UAE, considering the cost of living and typical compensation packages for expatriate professionals. Benefits are standard for such roles in the region, aiming to attract and retain top talent for critical projects.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) / Consulting Services for Infrastructure & Government. Parsons Corporation is a global leader in providing innovative engineering, construction, technical, and management solutions. Company Size: Over 10,000 employees globally. This signifies a large, established organization with extensive resources, established processes, and a broad international presence. For operations professionals, this means opportunities for structured career paths, access to diverse projects, and a robust corporate infrastructure. Founded: 1944. Parsons has a long history, suggesting stability, deep industry expertise, and a proven track record in delivering complex projects worldwide.

Team Structure:

• The role operates within the Integrated Design Delivery Partnership (IDDP) model, indicating a collaborative structure with client representatives (Abu Dhabi Airports) and other key partners.
• The Senior Design Manager will lead a team of multi-disciplinary engineering and design consultants.
• Reporting to Program Director and Deputy Program Director, with coordination across other Senior Design Managers for interface resolutions.
• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, involving project controls, construction teams, regulatory authorities, and specialist sub-consultants.

Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making and technical rigor are paramount, ensuring designs meet stringent aviation standards.
• Emphasis on integrated project delivery (IDDP) to foster collaboration and streamline workflows.
• Adoption of BIM and digital engineering practices for enhanced design coordination, clash detection, and lifecycle management.
• Strong focus on risk management, value engineering, and continuous improvement to optimize project outcomes.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Parsons' long history and global scale suggest a company culture that values experience, technical excellence, and a structured approach to project delivery. The IDDP model implies a highly collaborative environment where integrated workflows and effective communication are critical for success.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior-level position, often considered a Principal or Lead role within the design management discipline. It requires significant autonomy, strategic input, and the ability to influence project direction and technical standards. The scope of responsibility extends beyond team management to encompass technical leadership, strategic planning for design delivery, and significant stakeholder engagement.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Design Manager reports to the Program Director and Deputy Program Director, indicating a direct line of communication with senior project leadership. This position also involves significant coordination with other Senior Design Managers, highlighting a matrixed reporting or collaborative leadership structure within the design function.

Operations Impact: The operations impact of this role is profound. By leading the technical design of airside and airfield infrastructure, the Senior Design Manager directly influences project safety, operational efficiency, capacity, lifecycle costs, and sustainability. Successful design delivery is foundational to the entire project's success, affecting procurement, construction, commissioning, and long-term airport operations.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to move into higher program management roles, such as Program Director or Head of Design for larger, more complex international projects.
• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas of airfield design, aviation systems, or advanced digital delivery methodologies.
• Global Mobility: Opportunities to lead projects in other international locations where Parsons operates.
• Mentorship and Training: Develop leadership and mentoring skills by guiding junior engineers and contributing to organizational capability building.
• Strategic Contribution: Influence the adoption of new technologies and methodologies within Parsons' design practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for a Senior Design Manager at a firm like Parsons typically involves a progression from managing specific design packages to overseeing entire project components or even entire project designs. The emphasis on leadership and strategic contribution suggests significant potential for long-term career development within the company.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Parsons' EMEA Headquarters office in Abu Dhabi. This suggests a professional, corporate office environment equipped with modern facilities and technology. Office Location(s): Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. This location is a major hub for infrastructure development in the Middle East, offering exposure to significant and high-profile projects.

Workspace Context:

• The office environment is expected to be collaborative, fostering interaction with other design managers, project leads, and support functions within Parsons.
• Access to advanced design software, BIM platforms, and project management tools will be standard.
• Opportunities for interaction with clients (Abu Dhabi Airports) and other project stakeholders are frequent, requiring effective communication and presentation skills.

Work Schedule:

• Full-time, typically 40 hours per week, with flexibility often required to meet project deadlines and client needs. This may include occasional evening or weekend work during critical project phases. The role is based on-site in Abu Dhabi, requiring physical presence at the office and potentially project sites.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement in Abu Dhabi, combined with the nature of major infrastructure projects, suggests a dynamic work environment that balances office-based design work with potential site visits and client interactions.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or Talent Acquisition will review applications for basic qualifications and experience.
• Technical Interview(s): Multiple interviews with senior engineering leadership, potentially including the Program Director, Deputy Program Director, and other Senior Design Managers. These will focus on technical expertise, project experience, and understanding of airfield design principles.
• Case Study/Presentation: Candidates may be asked to present a portfolio piece or work through a hypothetical design challenge related to airfield infrastructure, demonstrating problem-solving, technical approach, and communication skills.
• Behavioral & Cultural Fit Interview: Assessment of leadership style, team management capabilities, conflict resolution, and alignment with Parsons' values and the IDDP collaborative culture.
• Final Interview: Discussion with executive leadership to confirm suitability for the role and discuss compensation and benefits.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your most impactful airside and airfield infrastructure projects. Focus on those demonstrating leadership, complex technical challenges, and successful delivery.
• Quantify Achievements: For each project, clearly define your role, the scope of work, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented, and the measurable outcomes (e.g., schedule adherence, cost savings, safety improvements, compliance achieved).
• Highlight Process: Showcase your approach to design management, team coordination, stakeholder engagement, risk mitigation, and BIM integration. Use diagrams or process flows to illustrate your methodologies.
• Demonstrate Compliance: Explicitly show how your designs met ICAO standards, ESTIDAMA, and other critical regulatory requirements.
• Tailor to IDDP: Emphasize your experience with integrated delivery models and collaborative workflows, as this is a key aspect of the role.

Challenge Preparation:

• Technical Scenarios: Be prepared to discuss common design challenges in airside development (e.g., pavement design, drainage, lighting systems, aircraft stand layouts, interface with air traffic control).
• Problem-Solving: Practice articulating your thought process for resolving complex technical issues, managing conflicting stakeholder requirements, or mitigating design risks.
• Leadership Scenarios: Prepare examples of how you have mentored teams, managed underperforming individuals, resolved team conflicts, and driven continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to thoroughly assess technical acumen, leadership potential, and fit within a collaborative, high-stakes project environment. A well-prepared portfolio is crucial for demonstrating practical experience and strategic thinking.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• BIM Platforms: Revit, Navisworks (for federated model reviews, clash detection, coordination).
• Project Management Software: Primavera P6, MS Project (for scheduling, progress tracking, resource management).
• Design Software: AutoCAD, Civil 3D, or similar CAD/modeling software for detailed design work.
• Collaboration Platforms: BIM 360, Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, or similar for document management, communication, and team collaboration.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Proficiency in utilizing project management software for progress reporting and performance metrics.
• Ability to interpret and present data related to design progress, risk registers, and value engineering outcomes.
• Familiarity with dashboarding tools for visualizing project status and key performance indicators (KPIs).

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design information integrates with broader project management systems and client relationship management is beneficial.
• Experience with workflow automation within design processes or project management tools is a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with BIM tools, project scheduling software, and digital collaboration platforms is non-negotiable for this role, reflecting the modern demands of large-scale infrastructure design management.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Technical Excellence: A commitment to delivering designs that are safe, efficient, compliant, and of the highest quality, adhering to international standards.
• Collaboration & Integration: Embracing the IDDP model by actively working with all project stakeholders, fostering open communication, and seeking integrated solutions.
• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: Encouraging new ideas, adopting advanced technologies (like BIM), and consistently seeking ways to optimize design processes and outcomes.
• Accountability & Ownership: Taking responsibility for design delivery, proactively managing risks, and ensuring commitments are met with a strong sense of ownership.
• Safety & Sustainability: Prioritizing safety in design and integrating sustainable practices (like ESTIDAMA) to minimize environmental impact and enhance lifecycle efficiency.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive and Inclusive: Actively engaging with all disciplines, consultants, and client representatives to ensure alignment and resolve issues early.
• Solution-Oriented: Focusing on collaborative problem-solving rather than assigning blame, driving towards constructive outcomes.
• Transparent Communication: Maintaining open and honest communication channels, ensuring all stakeholders are informed of progress, risks, and decisions.
• Feedback-Driven: Encouraging and providing constructive feedback to team members and consultants to foster growth and improve collective performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on IDDP and Parsons' stated values suggests a culture that highly values teamwork, open communication, and a shared commitment to project success. Candidates should demonstrate a collaborative mindset and an ability to work effectively across diverse teams.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complex Stakeholder Management: Navigating the diverse interests and requirements of Abu Dhabi Airports, regulatory bodies, multiple design consultants, and the construction team.
• Integrated Delivery Model Complexity: Ensuring seamless coordination and communication within the IDDP framework, which requires a high degree of trust and transparency among partners.
• Technical Rigor: Meeting and exceeding stringent international aviation standards (ICAO) and local regulations (ESTIDAMA) for airside and airfield infrastructure.
• Pace of Project Delivery: Managing design timelines effectively to support aggressive construction schedules in a fast-paced environment.
• Digital Transformation: Championing and effectively implementing BIM and digital design tools across all project phases and among various stakeholders.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Project Management: Gaining experience in managing mega-projects with complex contractual and delivery models.
• Specialized Airfield Design: Deepening knowledge in niche areas of airfield engineering, such as pavement technology, airside safety systems, or advanced drainage solutions.
• Digital Engineering Leadership: Becoming an expert in leveraging BIM and digital tools for integrated design and construction.
• Cross-Cultural Leadership: Developing skills in leading diverse, international teams in complex project environments.
• Sustainability Integration: Gaining expertise in implementing and certifying projects against leading sustainability standards like ESTIDAMA.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical of large-scale, high-profile infrastructure projects. Success in these areas will provide significant opportunities for professional growth and skill enhancement, making this a valuable role for career development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your experience leading the technical design delivery of a major airside or airfield infrastructure project. What were the key challenges and how did you overcome them?" (Focus on leadership, technical problem-solving, and process.)
• "How have you managed multi-disciplinary design teams and consultants to ensure quality and timely delivery? Provide specific examples, including how you handled conflicts or performance issues." (Focus on team management, coordination, and conflict resolution.)
• "Walk us through your approach to ensuring compliance with ICAO standards and local regulations like ESTIDAMA for airfield projects." (Focus on technical knowledge and regulatory adherence.)
• "Describe your experience with BIM and digital design coordination. How have you used tools like Navisworks for clash detection and integrated model reviews?" (Focus on technical proficiencies and digital adoption.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Parsons and our approach to project delivery, particularly the IDDP model?" (Demonstrate research and understanding of the company's methodology.)
• "How do you foster a collaborative team environment, especially when working with diverse groups of stakeholders and consultants?" (Focus on collaboration, communication, and team building.)
• "How do you approach risk management and value engineering in the design process?" (Focus on strategic thinking and proactive problem-solving.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your presentation logically, perhaps project by project, or by key responsibility area. For each project, clearly state the objective, your role, the key challenges, your strategic approach, the solutions implemented, and the quantifiable results.
• Visuals: Use high-quality visuals – project renderings, site photos, diagrams of processes or system integrations, and charts showing performance metrics.
• Storytelling: Frame your experience as compelling case studies that highlight your problem-solving abilities, leadership, and impact.
• Focus on Impact: Emphasize how your design decisions contributed to project success in terms of safety, efficiency, cost, schedule, and compliance.
• Address IDDP: Explicitly connect your project experiences to the principles of integrated design delivery and collaborative teamwork.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparing specific, quantifiable examples for behavioral questions and structuring your portfolio presentation to highlight leadership and process expertise will be critical for success. Demonstrating an understanding of Parsons' culture and the IDDP model is also key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on the Parsons careers portal.
• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your 15+ years of experience in airside/airfield design, leadership of multi-disciplinary teams, and familiarity with ICAO standards and IDDP.
• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly lists all relevant technical skills, software proficiencies (Primavera P6, Navisworks, Revit, etc.), and achievements using strong action verbs and quantifiable results related to design management and project delivery.
• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions. Prepare a concise overview of your most relevant projects for portfolio discussions.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Parsons' global projects, their commitment to sustainability (ESTIDAMA), and their approach to integrated project delivery. Understand the strategic importance of the Abu Dhabi airport expansion.

⚠️ 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.