Senior Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Design Manager, Major Projects - Transport

Company: WSP

Location: Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Engineering & Design Management (Transport Infrastructure)

Date Posted: March 01, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the design and delivery of complex, large-scale transportation infrastructure projects, ensuring adherence to quality, time, and budget constraints.

• Oversee multidisciplinary design teams, fostering collaboration and ensuring cohesive integration of all project components.

• Drive constructability assessments and review the clarity of design deliverables to minimize interpretation conflicts during the construction phase.

• Manage project programmes for various disciplines, from initial design through to construction completion.

• Contribute to WSP's "Future Ready®" vision by shaping communities and advancing humanity through impactful infrastructure development.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is situated within the Major Projects Transport division, focusing on significant national and regional infrastructure initiatives in New Zealand. The emphasis is on end-to-end project leadership, bridging the gap between design excellence and practical construction execution. The "Future Ready®" lens signifies a strategic approach to sustainable and forward-thinking infrastructure solutions.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and manage multidisciplinary design teams throughout the entire project lifecycle, from conceptualization to construction completion.

• Ensure all design deliverables meet stringent quality standards, project timelines, and budgetary requirements.

• Conduct rigorous reviews of design packages, ensuring alignment across disciplines and identifying potential gaps or conflicts.

• Assess and advise on the constructability and readability of design drawings and specifications to mitigate risks during the construction phase.

• Develop and implement comprehensive programme management plans for all design disciplines involved in major projects.

• Manage large-scale project budgets, including detailed work breakdown structures and cost control measures.

• Oversee and manage complex change processes on large-scale projects, ensuring minimal disruption and adherence to project objectives.

• Establish and maintain robust systems for multidisciplinary file management, document control, data security, and legal compliance.

• Effectively resource and manage a diverse range of professional disciplines and subcontractors on complex infrastructure projects.

• Prepare high-quality, credible reports and complex project documentation for internal and external stakeholders.

• Actively participate in project delivery to support utilization targets and ensure seamless project progression.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical design leadership and robust project management. The emphasis on "collaborative contracting environments" and managing "complex changes on large scale projects" points to a need for strong stakeholder management and adaptability in dynamic project settings. The requirement for establishing "complex systems for multidisciplinary files/records, documents, data control, legal and driving compliance to business systems" indicates a significant need for process standardization and robust governance.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Civil, Structural, or related discipline), Architecture, or a relevant field.

Experience:

• Minimum of 10-15 years of professional experience in the delivery of transportation infrastructure design.

• Proven track record in managing multidisciplinary projects through their full lifecycle, consistently meeting quality, time, and budget requirements.

• Demonstrated experience in collaborative contracting environments such as Design & Construct (D&C), Early Contractor Involvement (ECI), Non-Traditional Contracting (NOC), or Alliances.

• Extensive experience in managing large-scale project budgets, including the development and execution of substantial work breakdown structures.

Required Skills:

• Design Management: Proven ability to lead and coordinate multidisciplinary design efforts for complex infrastructure.

• Project Delivery: Expertise in managing projects from inception through to construction completion, ensuring successful outcomes.

• Quality Assurance & Control: Strong capability in reviewing deliverables and ensuring adherence to high-quality standards.

• Constructability Assessment: Skill in evaluating designs for practical implementation and minimizing construction-related issues.

• Programme Management: Ability to strategically plan and manage timelines for multiple disciplines on large projects.

• Budget Management: Proficient in managing large project budgets, including cost control and financial forecasting.

• Contract Management: Experience working within and managing relationships in collaborative contracting frameworks.

• Stakeholder Management: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively engage with internal teams, clients, and subcontractors.

• Report Writing: Exceptional ability to produce clear, concise, and credible complex reports and documentation.

• Risk Management: Proactive identification and mitigation of project risks, particularly related to design and construction.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with data control and compliance systems within large project environments.

• Expertise in resourcing and managing diverse professional teams and subcontractors.

• Familiarity with New Zealand's transportation infrastructure landscape and regulatory environment.

• Advanced proficiency in project management software and design coordination tools.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a strong blend of technical design expertise within transportation infrastructure and robust project management capabilities. The preference for collaborative contracting experience and managing complex changes highlights the dynamic nature of the projects. The extensive experience requirement (10-15 years) indicates this is a senior-level role requiring significant autonomy and strategic input.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Lifecycle Management: Showcase projects managed from initiation, through design, procurement, construction, and close-out, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of each phase.

• Multidisciplinary Coordination: Present examples of successfully integrating and managing diverse engineering disciplines (e.g., civil, structural, geotechnical, electrical, traffic) to achieve a cohesive design.

• Budget & Schedule Control: Provide case studies or evidence of managing large project budgets (significant WBS) and delivering projects on time, detailing methods used for control and reporting.

• Constructability & Risk Mitigation: Include examples where design reviews identified constructability issues or potential conflicts, and how these were resolved to ensure smooth construction.

• Contractual Delivery: Demonstrate experience within various collaborative contracting models (D&C, ECI, Alliance, etc.), highlighting your role and contributions to successful outcomes.

Process Documentation:

• Design Process Optimization: Detail how you have improved design workflows, implemented best practices, or streamlined processes to enhance efficiency and quality.

• System Implementation: Provide examples of establishing or managing robust systems for document control, data management, and compliance within complex project environments.

• Performance Measurement: Illustrate how you have tracked and reported on project performance, particularly concerning design quality, schedule adherence, and budget performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Senior Design Manager role, a portfolio is crucial for demonstrating practical application of skills. The emphasis should be on tangible achievements, problem-solving, and leadership in complex project environments. Specific case studies detailing how you managed budgets with substantial work breakdown structures and navigated collaborative contracting are essential.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Global Scale & Impact: Opportunity to work on landmark infrastructure projects that shape communities and advance humanity.

• Professional Development: Access to a global network of experts, continuous learning opportunities, and potential for career advancement within WSP.

• Health & Wellbeing: Comprehensive health insurance, wellness programs, and support for employee well-being.

• Retirement Savings: Contributory retirement savings plan (e.g., KiwiSaver in NZ context).

• Work-Life Integration: Supportive work environment with potential for flexible working arrangements where feasible for on-site roles.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services.

• Professional Memberships: Support for maintaining professional memberships and accreditations.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours are typically 40 hours per week. However, given the nature of major projects, flexibility may be required to meet project deadlines and critical milestones.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on research of similar senior engineering and project management roles in Auckland, New Zealand, considering the specialized nature of major transport infrastructure projects and the extensive experience required. Benefits are standard for large multinational professional services firms, with an emphasis on career growth and employee well-being.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Professional Services (Engineering, Design, Consultancy) in the Infrastructure and Built Environment sector.

Company Size: WSP is a global leader with over 75,000 employees worldwide, and a significant presence in New Zealand with over 2,000 professionals across 24 offices. This scale offers stability and vast resources.

Founded: WSP's origins trace back to the late 19th century, evolving through mergers and acquisitions into the global powerhouse it is today. Its long history signifies deep expertise and a sustained commitment to the industry.

Team Structure:

• The role operates within the Major Projects Transport division, focusing on New Zealand's key infrastructure initiatives.

• This team likely comprises various engineering disciplines, project managers, planners, and support staff.

• Reporting is expected to be to a senior leadership role within the Transport or Major Projects division, with direct management of design leads and project engineers.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Emphasis on leveraging data and analytics for project planning, risk assessment, and performance monitoring.

• Future Ready® Approach: Strategic focus on sustainable, resilient, and innovative solutions that anticipate future needs and challenges in urban development and transport.

• Collaborative Project Execution: Utilizing collaborative contracting models to foster strong partnerships and shared objectives among project stakeholders.

• Continuous Improvement: A culture that encourages the review and optimization of processes, systems, and methodologies to enhance efficiency and project outcomes.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: WSP's "Future Ready®" ethos is a key differentiator, suggesting a company that values innovation, sustainability, and long-term impact. The large global footprint combined with a strong local presence in New Zealand means candidates benefit from both global best practices and deep regional understanding. The focus on collaborative contracting is a strong indicator of the operational environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Senior Management position, operating at a strategic and leadership level within the transport infrastructure sector. It requires significant autonomy, decision-making authority, and the ability to influence project direction and outcomes. The role is critical for ensuring the successful delivery of some of New Zealand's most significant infrastructure investments.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Design Manager will likely report to a Director or General Manager of Major Projects or Transport within WSP New Zealand. They will directly lead and mentor a team of design professionals and potentially oversee the design aspects of multiple projects or a single, very large programme. Collaboration will extend across various internal departments (e.g., construction, environmental, commercial) and external stakeholders, including clients and contractors.

Operations Impact: The Senior Design Manager's role has a profound impact on the successful delivery of major transport infrastructure projects. Their leadership in design ensures that projects are not only technically sound but also constructible, cost-effective, and aligned with future sustainability goals. This directly influences project profitability, client satisfaction, public safety, and the long-term viability and functionality of critical infrastructure assets for New Zealand.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to progress into Director-level roles, overseeing larger portfolios, broader business units, or taking on executive leadership responsibilities within WSP.

• Specialization & Expertise: Deepen expertise in specific areas of transport infrastructure (e.g., highways, public transport, tunnels) or in advanced project delivery methodologies.

• Global Mobility: Opportunities to transfer or work on major projects in other WSP regions, leveraging international experience.

• Mentorship & Training: Develop leadership and mentoring skills by guiding junior engineers and design managers, contributing to the development of WSP's talent pipeline.

• Strategic Contribution: Involvement in business development, client relationship management, and contributing to WSP's strategic planning for the transport sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned at a high level of responsibility within WSP's operations. The growth path suggests opportunities for significant career progression, both within the technical/management stream and towards executive leadership, particularly within the specialized field of major transport infrastructure.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in an office environment, likely a modern, professional setting within WSP's Auckland office. This setup facilitates collaboration, access to resources, and structured project management. The company emphasizes a "close-knit community" and a "collaborative environment."

Office Location(s): The primary office location is Auckland, specifically Level 3, 100 Beaumont Street, Auckland 1010, New Zealand. This central location provides accessibility for team meetings and client interactions. WSP also has offices in Wellington and Hamilton, suggesting potential for interaction with teams in these regions, though the core role is Auckland-based.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Spaces: The office will likely feature open-plan areas, meeting rooms, and dedicated project spaces designed to foster teamwork and efficient communication among multidisciplinary teams.

• Technology & Tools: Access to industry-leading design software (e.g., AutoCAD, Civil 3D, BIM platforms), project management tools, and robust IT infrastructure is expected.

• Interdisciplinary Interaction: Opportunities to regularly engage with a diverse range of professionals, including engineers, planners, environmental specialists, and project managers, promoting knowledge sharing and integrated problem-solving.

Work Schedule: This is a full-time, on-site role. While standard office hours (approx. 40 hours/week) apply, the demands of major projects may necessitate flexibility, including occasional extended hours or weekend work, particularly during critical project phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement is significant for a role of this nature, emphasizing the need for direct team leadership, physical presence for site visits (where applicable), and active participation in collaborative office-based work. The Auckland location places the role at the heart of New Zealand's major infrastructure development.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Initial Screening: A review of your CV and cover letter by HR or a recruitment specialist to assess alignment with the core requirements.

2. Hiring Manager Interview: A detailed discussion with the Hiring Manager (likely a Director or Senior GM) focusing on your experience in managing major transport projects, multidisciplinary teams, and collaborative contracting. Expect questions on your leadership style and problem-solving approach.

3. Technical/Panel Interview: This may involve a panel of senior engineers or project leads. You will be asked to present on a relevant project from your portfolio, demonstrating your capabilities in design management, constructability, budget control, and programme management. Case studies of complex challenges and how you resolved them will be key.

4. Final Interview/Cultural Fit: Potentially a meeting with a higher-level executive or HR to discuss your fit with WSP's culture, values, and long-term career aspirations.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or by key responsibility area (e.g., Design Leadership, Budget Management, Collaborative

Delivery).

• Case Studies: For each major project presented, clearly articulate:

  • The project's scope, scale, and complexity (especially budget size and WBS).
  • Your specific role and responsibilities.
  • Key challenges faced (e.g., technical, contractual, schedule, budget) and your strategic approach to overcoming them.
  • The solutions implemented and their outcomes, with quantifiable results (e.g., % cost savings, time saved, quality improvements).
  • Evidence of your ability to manage multidisciplinary teams and collaborative contracting.

• Visuals: Use diagrams, flowcharts, and key drawings where appropriate to illustrate processes and design solutions.

• Conciseness: Be prepared to present your portfolio efficiently, focusing on the most impactful examples relevant to this Senior Design Manager role.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Be ready to discuss hypothetical scenarios related to managing design conflicts, budget overruns, or contractual disputes on major transport projects.

• Leadership Scenarios: Prepare to talk about how you motivate teams, manage underperformance, and foster a culture of collaboration and accountability.

• Technical Acumen: Refresh your knowledge on current trends in transport infrastructure design, constructability best practices, and relevant New Zealand standards.

• WSP Alignment: Research WSP's "Future Ready®" vision and values. Be prepared to articulate how your experience and approach align with these principles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to thoroughly assess technical expertise, leadership capabilities, and cultural fit. A well-prepared portfolio that clearly demonstrates experience with large-scale, complex projects and collaborative environments is essential for success. The emphasis on "Future Ready®" means candidates should be prepared to discuss innovation and sustainability in their responses.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design Software: Proficiency with industry-standard CAD and BIM software (e.g., AutoCAD, Civil 3D, Revit, Navisworks) for infrastructure design and coordination.

• Project Management Platforms: Experience with enterprise-level project management software (e.g., Oracle Primavera P6, Microsoft Project, Aconex, Procore) for scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking.

• Document Control Systems: Familiarity with robust document management systems (e.g., SharePoint, Aconex, Documentum) for managing large volumes of project documentation and ensuring version control.

• Collaboration Tools: Experience with platforms facilitating team communication and collaboration (e.g., Microsoft Teams, Slack, Zoom).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret project data from various sources, potentially using tools like Excel, Power BI, or Tableau for reporting and insights.

• Reporting Software: Experience generating comprehensive project reports, including progress reports, financial summaries, and risk assessments.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how client relationships are managed and how project data feeds into broader business systems is beneficial.

• Familiarity with workflow automation concepts within project management or design processes could be advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific tools are not listed, the role's requirements imply a need for expertise in leading-edge design and project management software commonly used in large-scale infrastructure projects. Proficiency with platforms that facilitate multidisciplinary collaboration and robust document control is paramount.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Future Focused: Commitment to developing sustainable, resilient, and forward-thinking infrastructure solutions that benefit communities long-term.

• Collaboration: A strong emphasis on teamwork, open communication, and partnership across disciplines, with clients, and with contractors.

• Excellence: Striving for the highest standards of technical quality, project delivery, and client satisfaction.

• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding ethical standards, taking ownership of responsibilities, and delivering on commitments.

• Empowerment: Fostering an environment where individuals are trusted, supported, and encouraged to take initiative and contribute their best work.

Collaboration Style:

• Integrated Project Teams: Working within integrated project teams where all disciplines and stakeholders are aligned towards common goals.

• Proactive Communication: Maintaining open and frequent communication channels to address issues early, share updates, and ensure everyone is informed.

• Constructive Feedback: A culture that encourages constructive feedback and continuous improvement through regular project reviews and debriefs.

• Knowledge Sharing: Actively participating in sharing best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise across project teams and the wider organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: WSP's core values, particularly "Future Focused" and "Collaboration," are central to its operational philosophy. Candidates should demonstrate how their work ethic and approach align with these values, emphasizing a proactive, team-oriented, and results-driven mindset.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complexity of Major Projects: Managing the intricate interdependencies, scale, and long timelines associated with landmark infrastructure projects.

• Stakeholder Alignment: Navigating the diverse interests and expectations of multiple stakeholders, including government agencies, contractors, and the public.

• Technical Innovation: Staying abreast of and integrating new design technologies, materials, and sustainable practices into projects.

• Risk Management: Proactively identifying and mitigating a wide array of risks inherent in large-scale infrastructure development, from technical to environmental and financial.

• Team Dynamics: Leading and motivating diverse, multidisciplinary teams, potentially across different organizations, to achieve a common vision.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Project Leadership: Gaining experience in leading some of New Zealand's most significant infrastructure projects, enhancing strategic leadership skills.

• Industry Best Practices: Exposure to global best practices in design management, collaborative contracting, and sustainable infrastructure through WSP's international network.

• Specialized Training: Opportunities for professional development in areas such as advanced BIM, sustainable design, risk management, and contract law.

• Mentorship Programs: Access to senior leaders for mentorship, guidance, and career development advice.

• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Broadening understanding across various engineering disciplines and project functions through close collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for senior roles in major infrastructure projects. WSP's global reach and focus on "Future Ready®" solutions provide excellent avenues for professional growth and development, particularly in cutting-edge and sustainable practices.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex, multidisciplinary transport infrastructure project you managed from design through to construction. What were the key challenges, how did you ensure design quality and constructability, and what was the final outcome?" (Focus on your role, budget management, team leadership, and problem-solving).

• "How have you managed and resolved design conflicts or constructability issues on large-scale projects, particularly within collaborative contracting environments (e.g., D&C, ECI)?" (Highlight your analytical skills, communication, and negotiation abilities).

• "Walk us through your approach to developing and managing the programme for a major infrastructure project, ensuring alignment across various engineering disciplines." (Demonstrate your planning, prioritization, and oversight skills).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about WSP and our 'Future Ready®' approach to infrastructure development?" (Research WSP's projects, values, and sustainability initiatives).

• "How do you foster a collaborative and high-performing culture within a multidisciplinary design team?" (Relate your leadership style to WSP's collaborative values).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select Key Projects: Choose 2-3 projects that best exemplify your experience in managing major transport infrastructure, multidisciplinary teams, and collaborative contracts.

• Quantify Achievements: For each project, clearly state the budget size, WBS complexity, team size, and any quantifiable improvements or outcomes (e.g., cost savings, schedule adherence, risk reduction).

• Demonstrate Process: Use diagrams or flowcharts to illustrate your design management process, how you ensured constructability, and how you oversaw programme management.

• Highlight Leadership: Emphasize your role in leading teams, resolving conflicts, and driving successful project delivery.

• Tailor to WSP: Frame your experience in the context of WSP's "Future Ready®" vision, highlighting any aspects of sustainability, innovation, or community impact.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare detailed examples that directly address the core responsibilities and requirements mentioned in the job description. Demonstrating a strategic understanding of project delivery, risk management, and stakeholder engagement, within the context of large-scale infrastructure, will be crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Design Manager position:

• Submit your application directly through the WSP careers portal via the provided link.

• Portfolio Customization: Prepare a concise portfolio that highlights 2-3 of your most relevant major transport infrastructure projects. Focus on showcasing your experience with multidisciplinary team leadership, budget management (especially with substantial WBS), constructability assessment, and collaborative contracting.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to emphasize keywords such as "Design Management," "Major Projects," "Transport Infrastructure," "Multidisciplinary," "Collaborative Contracting," "Budget Management," and "Programme Management." Quantify achievements wherever possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions. Prepare specific examples for the interview and portfolio presentation, focusing on how you deliver projects on time, within budget, and to quality standards.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research WSP's "Future Ready®" vision, their major transport projects in New Zealand, and their company values. Be prepared to discuss how your experience and aspirations align with WSP's mission and culture.

⚠️ 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.