Senior Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Design Manager
Company: AECOM
Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Job Type: Full-time
Category: Design & Engineering Management (Architecture)
Date Posted: October 14, 2025
Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (5-10 years estimated)
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and provide expert architectural guidance, critical analysis, and strategic recommendations for specialized segments within large-scale projects.
• Manage and mentor diverse teams of architects, designers, and technical specialists, fostering a collaborative and high-performance environment.
• Ensure architectural deliverables align with project schedules, budgetary constraints, and AECOM's stringent quality standards.
• Drive innovation in design methodologies and sustainability practices, contributing to AECOM's mission of delivering a better world through infrastructure.
• Act as a key technical liaison, partnering with clients and internal stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the provided description focuses on architectural leadership, the "Senior Design Manager" title and AECOM's broad infrastructure scope suggest a role deeply integrated with project management, engineering coordination, and client relationship management. The role requires not just design expertise but also the ability to manage complex projects and teams.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Provide authoritative architectural guidance, including complex calculations, in-depth analysis, feasibility studies, and strategic recommendations for specific architectural disciplines within assigned projects.
• Oversee and manage teams of architects, designers, and subject matter specialists, ensuring effective resource allocation and performance.
• Contribute to the successful execution of modest-sized projects or provide critical support to Project Architectural or Engineering Managers on larger, more complex initiatives.
• Ensure all architectural designs and recommendations adhere strictly to project timelines, budget limitations, and AECOM's rigorous quality and safety standards.
• Collaborate closely with multidisciplinary project teams, including engineers, planners, and construction managers, to ensure integrated and holistic project delivery.
• Champion the adoption of innovative design technologies, sustainable practices, and digital tools to enhance project outcomes and AECOM's competitive edge.
• Act as a primary point of contact for design-related client inquiries, presenting solutions and ensuring client satisfaction throughout the design and implementation phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities are inferred from the provided job description's emphasis on "architectural guidance, calculations, analysis, studies and recommendations" and the management aspect implied by "manage various size groups of architects, designers and/or specialists." The role's seniority also suggests a significant contribution to project strategy and client interaction.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture or a related field is typically required.
• A Master's degree in Architecture, Urban Design, or a related specialization is often preferred for senior roles.
• Professional licensure (e.g., Registered Architect) in the relevant jurisdiction or country is highly advantageous.

Experience:

• A minimum of 5-10 years of progressive experience in architectural design, project coordination, and team leadership within the infrastructure or construction industry.
• Proven track record of successfully managing architectural project components from conceptualization through to completion.
• Experience with large-scale, complex infrastructure projects (e.g., transportation, buildings, urban development) is a significant plus.

Required Skills:

• Architectural Design Expertise: Profound knowledge of architectural principles, design best practices, building codes, and construction methods.
• Technical Analysis & Calculations: Ability to perform complex architectural calculations, structural analysis, and feasibility studies.
• Project Management Fundamentals: Understanding of project lifecycle management, scheduling, budgeting, and resource allocation for design projects.
• Team Leadership & Mentorship: Demonstrated ability to lead, motivate, and mentor diverse teams of design professionals.
• Client Relationship Management: Strong interpersonal skills for effective client communication, consultation, and stakeholder engagement.
• Problem-Solving: Aptitude for identifying design challenges and developing innovative, practical solutions.
• Technical Documentation: Proficiency in creating clear, comprehensive architectural drawings, specifications, and reports.

Preferred Skills:

• Sustainability & Resilience Design: Knowledge of green building principles, LEED, BREEAM, or other relevant sustainability certifications.
• Digital Design Tools: Proficiency with advanced BIM software (e.g., Revit, ArchiCAD), visualization tools, and potentially generative design software.
• Contract Administration: Experience with construction contracts, tender processes, and site supervision.
• Risk Management: Ability to identify and mitigate design-related risks.
• Experience in the MENA region: Familiarity with local building codes, regulations, and design aesthetics in Saudi Arabia.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience level is estimated based on the "Senior" title and typical industry progression. The educational and skill requirements are standard for such a role in a global engineering consulting firm like AECOM, with specific emphasis on technical depth and leadership capabilities.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 significant architectural projects, highlighting your specific contributions as a design lead or manager.
• Include examples demonstrating your ability to provide architectural guidance, conduct detailed analysis, and present comprehensive recommendations.
• Feature projects that illustrate successful management of design teams and adherence to project budgets and schedules.
• Provide evidence of your involvement in client interactions, stakeholder consultations, and problem-solving scenarios related to design challenges.
• Highlight any contributions to innovative design solutions, sustainable practices, or the implementation of advanced digital design tools.

Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate experience in documenting architectural design processes, from initial concept development to detailed design documentation.
• Include examples of workflow optimization for design tasks, emphasizing efficiency improvements and quality control measures.
• Showcase how you have utilized project management methodologies to track design progress, manage resources, and ensure timely delivery of architectural packages.
• Be prepared to discuss your approach to risk assessment and mitigation within the architectural design process.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Senior Design Manager role, a strong portfolio is crucial. This section emphasizes the need for tangible evidence of leadership, technical expertise, and project execution capabilities, aligning with the expectations for a senior position in a large-scale infrastructure firm.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated Range: SAR 400,000 - SAR 700,000 per annum (approximately $107,000 - $187,000 USD, subject to exchange rates).
• Explanation: This estimate is based on a review of Senior Design Manager roles in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, within large international engineering and construction firms. Factors considered include the significant demand for infrastructure expertise in the region, the seniority of the role, AECOM's global standing, and typical compensation benchmarks for specialized engineering and design leadership positions in the Middle East market. Actual compensation will be determined by the candidate's experience, qualifications, and the specific project scope.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans for employees and potentially dependents.
• Life and Disability: Life Insurance and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) coverage, along with long-term and short-term disability benefits.
• Paid Time Off: Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) and various Leaves of Absence policies.
• Retirement Savings: Access to a Retirement Savings Plan, potentially with company matching contributions.
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP): Opportunity to invest in AECOM's growth through stock ownership.
• Professional Development: Support for continuous learning, including training programs, certifications, and potential tuition reimbursement.
• Work-Life Balance Resources: Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Well-being Resources, and potentially flexible work arrangements where feasible for an on-site role.
• Additional Perks: Voluntary benefits, service recognition awards, and business travel insurance.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are typically 40 hours per week.
• The role is primarily on-site in Riyadh, requiring consistent presence during core business hours.
• Occasional flexibility may be required to meet project deadlines, attend critical meetings, or collaborate with international teams in different time zones.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary range is an estimation for Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. AECOM is a large multinational firm known for offering competitive benefits packages, hence the detailed inclusion of benefits listed by the company.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Infrastructure Consulting, Engineering, Design, Construction Management. AECOM operates globally across sectors like Transportation, Buildings, Water, Environment, and Energy. Company Size: Large Enterprise (50,000+ employees globally). This indicates a structured organization with established processes, extensive resources, and diverse career pathways. Founded: 1910. AECOM has a long history, signifying stability, deep industry experience, and a strong legacy in developing global infrastructure.

Team Structure:

• Project-Based Teams: Senior Design Managers typically work within project-specific teams, collaborating with a diverse group of architects, engineers, planners, and project managers.
• Disciplinary Leadership: They often lead the architectural discipline within a larger project, reporting to a Project Director or Chief Engineer, while managing a team of architectural specialists.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: The role demands close interaction with various departments, including structural engineering, MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing), civil engineering, environmental services, and construction management.

Methodology:

• Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) Principles: AECOM often employs methodologies that foster early collaboration among stakeholders to optimize project outcomes.
• Data-Driven Decision Making: Utilizing analytics and performance metrics to inform design choices and project execution strategies.
• Digital Transformation: Embracing technologies like BIM, digital twins, and advanced analytics to enhance design accuracy, efficiency, and project lifecycle management.
• Focus on Sustainability & Resilience: Integrating environmental considerations and long-term resilience into all design and planning processes.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's status as a global leader in infrastructure consulting implies a culture that values technical excellence, innovation, global collaboration, and a commitment to sustainability. The company size suggests a robust organizational framework and significant opportunities for career development.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior Management. This role signifies a significant level of responsibility, requiring independent decision-making, strategic input, and leadership of both projects and people. It's a position that bridges technical expertise with managerial acumen. Reporting Structure: Typically reports to a Project Director, Chief Architect, or a Senior Engineering Manager. Manages a team of architects, designers, and potentially junior engineers. Operations Impact: The Senior Design Manager has a direct and substantial impact on project success by ensuring the architectural integrity, functionality, and aesthetic quality of major infrastructure projects. Their decisions influence project budgets, timelines, client satisfaction, and AECOM's reputation for delivering high-quality, sustainable designs.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in niche areas like sustainable design, urban planning, or specific building typologies.
• Project Leadership Expansion: Transition to managing larger, more complex, or multi-disciplinary projects as a Project Director or Program Manager.
• Regional/Global Leadership: Move into broader leadership roles overseeing design operations across multiple projects or geographical regions.
• Business Development: Contribute to winning new projects by leveraging design expertise and client relationships.
• Mentorship and Training: Develop into a key mentor for junior staff, shaping the next generation of AECOM designers and leaders.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior" designation implies a clear path for career advancement, either vertically into higher leadership roles or horizontally into broader project management or specialized technical consulting.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Professional office environment, likely within a modern, well-equipped AECOM office in Riyadh. The workspace will be designed to facilitate collaboration and technical work. Office Location(s): Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This location positions the role within a rapidly developing region with significant ongoing infrastructure projects.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The office will serve as a central point for team meetings, design reviews, client presentations, and cross-disciplinary coordination. Expect shared workspaces, meeting rooms equipped with AV technology, and potentially dedicated project war rooms.
• Technology-Rich Environment: Access to high-performance computing, advanced design software, networking capabilities, and communication tools essential for modern infrastructure design.
• Professional Interaction: Frequent opportunities to interact with a diverse range of AECOM professionals, clients, consultants, and regulatory officials.

Work Schedule:

• Primarily an on-site role, requiring consistent presence during standard business hours (e.g., Sunday to Thursday).
• While a 40-hour work week is standard, project demands may occasionally necessitate extended hours or weekend work to meet critical deadlines or client needs.
• Flexibility may be offered for aspects of work that can be performed remotely, though core design management and team leadership functions will likely require physical presence.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given AECOM's global presence and the nature of infrastructure projects, the work environment will be highly professional, collaborative, and technology-driven, emphasizing on-site presence for team cohesion and project oversight.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or Talent Acquisition will review applications, focusing on qualifications, experience, and alignment with AECOM's core values.
• Technical Interview(s): Conducted by hiring managers and senior architects/engineers. Expect in-depth discussions on your architectural expertise, project experience, problem-solving approach, and technical skills.
• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where you will present and discuss your portfolio, detailing your role, contributions, and the outcomes of your key projects. Be prepared to articulate design decisions, challenges overcome, and lessons learned.
• Behavioral/Cultural Fit Interview: Assess your alignment with AECOM's culture, including collaboration style, leadership approach, and commitment to safety and sustainability.
• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior executive or regional director to finalize the decision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose projects that best showcase your senior-level capabilities, leadership, and impact on complex infrastructure.
• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the challenge, your specific role and responsibilities, the solutions you implemented, and the quantifiable results or impact.
• Highlight Leadership: Emphasize instances where you managed teams, mentored staff, or influenced design direction.
• Demonstrate Technical Depth: Be ready to discuss complex calculations, analytical processes, and design rationale.
• Focus on Relevance: Tailor your presentation to AECOM's project types and regional focus in Riyadh.
• Prepare for Q&A: Anticipate questions about your design philosophy, risk management, sustainability approach, and how you handle difficult stakeholders.

Challenge Preparation:

• While not explicitly mentioned, prepare for potential case studies or scenario-based questions related to:
  • Managing a design conflict between disciplines.
  • Addressing unexpected budget or schedule constraints.
  • Proposing innovative sustainable design solutions.
  • Leading a team through a challenging design phase.
• Practice articulating your thought process clearly and concisely, demonstrating structured problem-solving.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process for a senior role at a firm like AECOM will be rigorous, with a strong emphasis on portfolio presentation and demonstrating both technical prowess and leadership experience.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• BIM Software: Autodesk Revit, Navisworks, likely ArchiCAD for specific workflows.
• CAD Software: AutoCAD.
• 3D Modeling & Visualization: SketchUp, 3ds Max, Lumion, Enscape.
• Project Management Software: Primavera P6, Microsoft Project, AECOM's internal project management platforms.
• Collaboration Platforms: Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, Autodesk Construction Cloud.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Potentially Excel for data manipulation, with integration into broader AECOM analytics platforms.
• Reporting Tools: Standard office suite for report generation; experience with dashboarding tools (e.g., Power BI, Tableau) could be beneficial for presenting project metrics.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM: Understanding of how CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce) are used to manage client relationships and project pipelines, though direct use may be limited for this role.
• Automation: Awareness of how automation applies to design workflows, such as scripting in CAD/BIM or leveraging generative design tools.
• Integration: Familiarity with how different software platforms integrate to create a seamless project delivery environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with industry-standard design software, particularly BIM, is critical. Experience with project management tools and collaborative platforms is equally important for a role managing complex projects and teams within a large organization.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: A paramount commitment to safety in all design and project execution activities.
• Integrity: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all business dealings.
• Innovation: Encouraging creative thinking and the adoption of new technologies and methodologies.
• Collaboration: Fostering teamwork and cross-disciplinary cooperation to achieve collective success.
• Sustainability: Integrating environmental responsibility and long-term resilience into every project.
• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and exceeding client expectations.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: AECOM emphasizes a highly collaborative environment where architects, engineers, planners, and construction managers work seamlessly together. This role requires proactive engagement with all project stakeholders.
• Open Communication: Encouraging a culture where ideas can be shared freely, feedback is constructive, and challenges are addressed transparently.
• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting the exchange of best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise across teams and projects.
• Respect and Inclusivity: Valuing diverse perspectives and ensuring an inclusive environment where all team members feel respected and empowered.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's global presence means its values are well-defined and consistently applied. Candidates should demonstrate alignment with these core principles, particularly regarding safety, integrity, innovation, and collaboration.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Diverse Stakeholder Expectations: Balancing the needs and requirements of clients, internal technical teams, regulatory bodies, and the public.
• Navigating Complex Project Requirements: Dealing with intricate design challenges, site constraints, and evolving project scopes in a dynamic market like Riyadh.
• Ensuring Design Consistency Across Large Teams: Maintaining architectural quality and adherence to standards when managing multiple architects and designers.
• Adapting to Rapid Technological Advancements: Staying abreast of new design software, AI in design, and sustainable technologies, and integrating them effectively.
• Geopolitical & Economic Factors: Understanding and adapting to regional economic shifts and regulatory changes that may impact project delivery.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Access to AECOM's extensive internal training programs and external certifications in specialized architectural areas, BIM, sustainability, and project management.
• Leadership Development Programs: Opportunities to hone leadership, strategic thinking, and management skills through dedicated AECOM programs.
• Industry Conferences & Seminars: Participation in leading architectural and engineering events to stay current with industry trends and network with peers.
• Mentorship: Benefit from guidance from senior leaders within AECOM and contribute to mentoring junior staff.
• Global Mobility: Potential opportunities to work on international projects or in different AECOM offices globally.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for senior roles in large infrastructure projects. AECOM's commitment to professional development provides ample opportunities for growth beyond the immediate role.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to resolve a significant design conflict between architectural and engineering teams. What was your approach, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on communication, negotiation, and technical resolution.)
• "How do you ensure architectural designs meet sustainability goals while staying within budget and schedule constraints?" (Highlight your understanding of integrated design and life-cycle costing.)
• "Walk us through a complex architectural analysis or calculation you performed for a major project. What were the key findings, and how did they influence the design?" (Demonstrate technical rigor and analytical skills.)
• "How do you foster innovation and encourage creative solutions within your design team?" (Discuss your leadership style and methods for team engagement.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you specifically about AECOM and our work in the Riyadh region?" (Research AECOM's recent projects in KSA, particularly in Riyadh, and align your interests with their strategic goals.)
• "How do you align with AECOM's core values, such as safety, integrity, and sustainability?" (Provide concrete examples from your experience.)
• "Describe your ideal team environment and how you contribute to a collaborative culture." (Emphasize teamwork, open communication, and respect.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Use a clear narrative for each project: Problem/Objective -> Your Role/Actions -> Solution/Design -> Outcome/Impact.
• Quantify: Use metrics wherever possible (e.g., budget savings, schedule adherence, efficiency gains, sustainability targets met).
• Visuals: Use high-quality renderings, drawings, and diagrams to illustrate your points.
• Conciseness: Focus on the most impactful aspects of your contribution and be prepared to dive deeper if asked.
• AECOM Fit: Emphasize projects that align with AECOM's expertise and the types of infrastructure being developed in Riyadh.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation for a senior role should focus on demonstrating strategic thinking, leadership capabilities, and a deep understanding of project execution, specifically in the context of large-scale infrastructure.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Design Manager position:

• Visit the AECOM careers portal via the provided URL and submit your application.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight experience in architectural guidance, team management, project coordination, and infrastructure design. Use keywords from the job description and AECOM's mission.
• Portfolio Preparation: Curate your portfolio to showcase 3-5 key projects that exemplify your senior-level design, leadership, and problem-solving skills. Be ready to present and discuss these in detail.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with AECOM's global operations, its significant projects in Saudi Arabia (especially Riyadh), its commitment to sustainability, and its company values.
• Interview Practice: Prepare to answer behavioral and technical questions, and practice your portfolio presentation. Consider mock interviews to refine your delivery and responses.

⚠️ 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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