Senior Design Manager- BHS (Baggage Handling System)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Design Manager - BHS (Baggage Handling System) Company: Parsons Corporation Location: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates Job Type: Full-time Category: Design Management / Engineering Operations Date Posted: 2026-01-07 Experience Level: 15+ Years (Senior Level) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the end-to-end technical design delivery for complex Baggage Handling Systems (BHS) within a major airport infrastructure project.
• Manage and mentor multi-disciplinary design teams, ensuring adherence to stringent aviation security, operational efficiency, and throughput objectives.
• Drive design compliance with international standards, local regulations, and project-specific requirements through robust coordination and integration efforts.
• Oversee the implementation of digital design tools and BIM coordination to optimize constructability, identify clashes, and ensure seamless system integration.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and knowledge sharing within the design and engineering functions.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is critical for a large-scale airport development, focusing on the technical intricacies of BHS. The emphasis on IDDP (Integrated Design Delivery Partnership) suggests a collaborative, integrated project delivery model where design and construction are closely intertwined. The Senior Design Manager will be a key technical authority, responsible for translating complex operational needs into robust, compliant, and efficient system designs.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the technical design delivery for all baggage handling systems (BHS), ensuring alignment with IDDP objectives and operational requirements.
• Develop and implement technical delivery strategies, design criteria, and performance standards for BHS, sortation, screening, and related systems.
• Coordinate multi-disciplinary design activities, ensuring seamless integration between BHS, screening systems, automation, and other airport infrastructure.
• Lead design review workshops, assessing technical completeness, constructability, maintainability, and compliance with all relevant standards.
• Ensure all designs adhere to ICAO standards, local building codes, ESTIDAMA (Abu Dhabi's sustainability framework), and airport operational standards.
• Oversee BIM implementation and digital design coordination, utilizing tools like BIM 360 and Navisworks for clash detection and federated model reviews.
• Identify and mitigate design-related risks impacting cost, schedule, or performance, and facilitate value engineering initiatives.
• Monitor design deliverables against the overall project schedule and milestone targets, collaborating with Program Controls for progress tracking.
• Liaise with Abu Dhabi Airports, design consultants, regulatory authorities, and other key stakeholders to secure approvals and resolve interface issues.
• Promote Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA) principles and lead constructability reviews to ensure practical and efficient construction.
• Mentor design engineers and technical staff, fostering technical excellence and a collaborative team environment.
• Capture and document lessons learned to inform future project phases and enhance organizational capability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly outline a leadership role focused on technical oversight and strategic execution of BHS design within a complex, multi-stakeholder airport environment. The emphasis on IDDP, BIM, DfMA, and ESTIDAMA highlights the modern, integrated, and sustainable approach required for this project.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Systems, or equivalent), Architecture, Construction Management, or a related technical discipline.
• Master's degree in a related field is preferred.

Experience:

• Minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in the design, engineering, and delivery of Baggage Handling Systems (BHS).
• Proven track record of managing multi-disciplinary technical teams and overseeing large-scale, 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 expertise in Baggage Handling Systems (BHS) technologies, including sortation, screening integration, and automation.
• Strong proficiency in design management, coordination, and stakeholder engagement methodologies.
• Comprehensive understanding of international design and construction codes (e.g., ICAO, NFPA, IBC, ESTIDAMA, and local Abu Dhabi authority standards).
• Proficiency in design coordination and project management software, including BIM 360, Revit, Navisworks, Primavera P6, and MS Project.
• Exceptional problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making capabilities with meticulous attention to detail.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with a collaborative and team-oriented approach.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, work effectively under pressure, and deliver results in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

Preferred Skills:

• Professional registration or certification (e.g., Professional Engineer - P.E., Chartered Engineer - CEng, Project Management Professional - PMP, Certified Construction Manager - CCM, or equivalent).
• Prior experience delivering major airport terminal projects from design through commissioning.
• Understanding of sustainability standards like ESTIDAMA, LEED, or BREEAM and their application in airport infrastructure.
• Experience working in the GCC region or Middle East, with familiarity with local construction practices and the regulatory environment.
• Knowledge of Integrated Design Delivery Partnership (IDDP) or Design-Build delivery models.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience requirement of 15+ years, coupled with a preference for a Master's degree and professional certifications, signifies a highly senior and specialized role. The emphasis on specific software proficiency and understanding of regional standards indicates the need for practical, hands-on experience within the Middle Eastern context.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 2-3 complex Baggage Handling System (BHS) design projects, ideally within airport or large-scale logistics environments.
• Detail specific contributions to design management, technical coordination, and systems integration challenges.
• Provide evidence of managing multi-disciplinary teams and coordinating with various stakeholders (e.g., airport authorities, security agencies, system vendors).
• Highlight instances of successful compliance with international and local design standards, including aviation-specific regulations.
• Demonstrate experience with BIM and digital design coordination, including clash detection, federated model reviews, and reporting.
• Include examples of risk mitigation strategies, value engineering proposals, and their impact on project outcomes.

Process Documentation:

• Examples of technical delivery strategies and design criteria development for complex systems.
• Documentation illustrating the process for leading design review workshops and ensuring quality assurance.
• Case studies demonstrating the resolution of complex interface issues and system integration challenges.
• Records of constructability reviews and the incorporation of Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA) principles.
• Evidence of mentorship programs or knowledge-sharing initiatives within previous design teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Senior Design Manager role, the portfolio should not just list projects but critically analyze the candidate's strategic thinking, leadership, and problem-solving approach. The emphasis should be on demonstrating an ability to manage complexity, drive technical excellence, and deliver successful outcomes on large-scale, integrated projects.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated Range: AED 45,000 - 70,000 per month (approximately USD 12,250 - 19,000 per month, or USD 147,000 - 228,000 annually). Methodology: This estimate is based on Parsons Corporation's typical compensation for senior engineering and design management roles in the UAE, considering the extensive experience required (15+ years), the specialized nature of BHS expertise, and the high cost of living and competitive market in Abu Dhabi for major infrastructure projects. Industry benchmarks for similar roles in large engineering consultancies and construction firms in the GCC region were also consulted.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage for employees and dependents.
• Generous paid time off (annual leave, public holidays).
• Retirement savings plan or end-of-service benefits as per UAE labor law.
• Professional development opportunities, including training, certifications, and conference attendance.
• Life insurance coverage.
• Relocation assistance may be provided for expatriate hires.
• Potential for performance-based bonuses.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are typically 40 hours per week, usually Monday to Friday.
• Flexibility may be required to meet project deadlines and attend critical meetings, potentially involving some evening or weekend work during peak periods.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate and can vary significantly based on the candidate's exact experience, qualifications, negotiation skills, and the specific project demands. Benefits are standard for large multinational corporations operating in the UAE, with potential additions for senior expatriate roles.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering, Construction, and Project Management Services, with a strong focus on infrastructure, defense, and technology sectors. Parsons is a global leader in providing innovative solutions for complex challenges. Company Size: Large enterprise (over 10,000 employees globally). This size indicates a well-established organization with robust processes, extensive resources, and a global presence. Founded: 1944. Parsons has a long history of delivering impactful projects, suggesting stability, deep expertise, and a strong legacy of engineering excellence.

Team Structure:

• The role operates within the Abu Dhabi office, likely part of a larger project delivery team for a significant airport development.
• The Senior Design Manager will report to a Program Director or Deputy Program Director, overseeing a team of specialist BHS design engineers, BIM coordinators, and potentially external design consultants.
• Collaboration will be extensive with other Senior Design Managers (for different disciplines), project controls, procurement, construction, and client representatives (Abu Dhabi Airports).

Methodology:

• Parsons emphasizes a collaborative, integrated approach to project delivery, often utilizing advanced digital tools and methodologies like BIM and IDDP.
• Data-driven decision-making and a focus on technical excellence are core to their operations.
• A commitment to safety, quality, and sustainability is embedded in their project execution.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Parsons' global scale and long history imply a structured yet innovative environment. The IDDP model suggests a highly integrated, collaborative approach to design and construction management, where cross-functional communication and alignment are paramount.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior Management / Principal Engineering. This role is positioned at a high level, requiring significant technical expertise, leadership experience, and strategic oversight. It signifies a critical contributor to project success. Reporting Structure: The Senior Design Manager will likely report to a Program Director or Deputy Program Director, indicating a direct line of responsibility to overall project leadership. This structure emphasizes the strategic importance of the BHS design function. Operations Impact: The Senior Design Manager's work directly influences the operational efficiency, safety, and passenger experience of a major international airport. Successful BHS design is crucial for the airport's functionality, throughput capacity, and long-term operational success, directly impacting revenue generation and passenger satisfaction.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to move into higher program management roles, overseeing multiple design disciplines or entire project phases.
• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in advanced BHS technologies, airport systems integration, or emerging airport infrastructure trends.
• Global Mobility: Opportunities to work on other major international projects within the Parsons global network.
• Mentorship & Training: Develop leadership and mentoring skills by guiding junior engineers and contributing to internal knowledge development programs.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a significant opportunity for career progression within a high-profile mega-project. The experience gained in managing complex systems integration and stakeholder relations within an IDDP framework is highly transferable and valuable for future leadership positions in the aviation and infrastructure sectors.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Abu Dhabi and will operate within a project office environment, likely a dedicated site office or a hub for the Integrated Design Delivery Partnership (IDDP). This setting fosters close collaboration among project teams. Office Location(s): Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, specifically within the project's operational headquarters or a designated IDDP center. Workspace Context:

• A highly collaborative environment with frequent interaction with project managers, fellow design managers, engineers, BIM coordinators, and client representatives.
• Access to advanced digital design tools, BIM platforms, and project management software is expected.
• The workspace will likely be dynamic, reflecting the fast-paced nature of a major infrastructure project with tight deadlines.

Work Schedule:

• Standard 40-hour work week (Monday-Friday) is the baseline.
• Significant flexibility and potential for extended hours or weekend work may be required to meet critical project milestones, design submissions, and coordination meetings, especially during peak project phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment will be demanding but rewarding, offering direct exposure to cutting-edge airport infrastructure development. Close proximity and constant interaction with project stakeholders are key features of this on-site role.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and portfolio to assess qualifications and experience against the core requirements.
• Technical Interview(s): In-depth discussions with hiring managers and senior engineering leads focusing on BHS design, project management, leadership, and technical problem-solving. Expect scenario-based questions related to managing design challenges, stakeholder conflicts, and technical integration.
• Portfolio Presentation: A dedicated session to present key projects from your portfolio, detailing your role, challenges faced, solutions implemented, and outcomes achieved. This is a critical stage to demonstrate your practical experience and strategic thinking.
• Cultural Fit/Behavioral Interview: Assessment of your fit within Parsons' culture and the project team, focusing on collaboration, communication, and problem-solving approaches.
• Final Interview: Potentially with senior project leadership to discuss overall fit and strategic alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight BHS Expertise: Focus on projects where you had significant responsibility for Baggage Handling Systems design, integration, and delivery.
• Quantify Achievements: Use metrics to demonstrate the impact of your work (e.g., schedule adherence, cost savings through value engineering, efficiency improvements, successful system integration).
• Showcase Leadership: Detail your experience in managing teams, mentoring engineers, and driving technical decisions.
• Illustrate Problem-Solving: Present specific case studies where you effectively resolved complex technical or stakeholder challenges.
• Demonstrate Digital Proficiency: Include examples of your work with BIM, Navisworks, and other digital design tools, showing how they were used to improve coordination and outcomes.
• Tailor to IDDP: Frame your experience within the context of integrated project delivery, emphasizing collaboration and cross-functional coordination.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for technical challenges or case studies that test your understanding of BHS design principles, system integration, and project management under pressure.
• Practice articulating complex technical concepts clearly and concisely.
• Prepare to discuss how you would approach specific design or integration problems based on the project's context.
• Develop strategies for presenting your portfolio effectively, focusing on storytelling and demonstrating impact.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to thoroughly assess both technical acumen and leadership capabilities. A strong portfolio that clearly articulates your experience with complex BHS projects and your ability to manage them within an integrated delivery framework is essential for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Baggage Handling System (BHS) Design Software: While specific proprietary software may be used by vendors, the manager must understand the principles and integration requirements.
• BIM Software: Revit, BIM 360 (for collaboration and model management).
• Coordination & Visualization: Navisworks (for clash detection, model aggregation, and federated model reviews).
• Project Management & Scheduling: Primavera P6, MS Project (for schedule development, tracking, and progress reporting).
• Document Management Systems: Familiarity with enterprise-level document control platforms.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Proficiency in generating and interpreting technical reports, design review findings, and progress performance metrics.
• Experience with data analysis tools to support decision-making and risk assessment.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable for this design management role, but understanding how BHS systems interface with airport operational systems (which might involve CRM-like functionalities for tracking) is beneficial.
• Familiarity with workflow automation within design processes and project management.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in BIM and project scheduling tools is paramount. The ability to leverage these technologies for effective design coordination, clash detection, and progress monitoring is a key requirement for optimizing project delivery.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity & Ethics: Upholding the highest standards in all professional dealings and project execution.
• Excellence & Innovation: Driving for superior technical solutions and embracing new technologies and methodologies.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive environment where diverse teams work together towards common goals.
• Safety & Sustainability: Prioritizing the well-being of people and the environment in all design and project decisions.
• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and exceeding client expectations.

Collaboration Style:

• Highly collaborative and cross-functional, requiring constant engagement with internal engineering teams, external consultants, construction teams, and client representatives.
• Emphasis on proactive communication, clear documentation, and timely resolution of interdisciplinary issues.
• A culture of open feedback and continuous improvement is encouraged to refine processes and enhance project outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Parsons' stated values align with those expected in large, reputable engineering firms. The emphasis on collaboration is particularly crucial given the IDDP delivery model, which necessitates tight integration and shared responsibility across project disciplines.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complexity of BHS Integration: Ensuring seamless integration of BHS with intricate airport security screening, IT, and operational systems.
• Stakeholder Management: Balancing the diverse and sometimes conflicting requirements of airport authorities, airlines, security agencies, and other stakeholders.
• Adherence to Evolving Standards: Keeping abreast of and implementing the latest aviation security regulations, ICAO standards, and sustainability requirements.
• Managing Design Risks: Proactively identifying and mitigating potential design flaws that could impact project schedule, budget, or operational performance.
• Pace of a Mega-Project: Working within aggressive timelines common to large-scale airport developments.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced BHS Technologies: Gaining exposure to cutting-edge BHS automation, AI-driven sorting, and predictive maintenance technologies.
• Global Project Management: Developing skills in managing projects in diverse cultural and regulatory environments.
• Digital Engineering Leadership: Enhancing expertise in BIM, digital twins, and data analytics for infrastructure projects.
• Leadership & Mentorship: Formal opportunities to lead larger teams and mentor emerging talent within the organization.
• Industry Engagement: Potential to represent Parsons at industry conferences or contribute to standards development bodies.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges typical of mega-infrastructure projects, but also offers unparalleled opportunities for professional growth and development in specialized areas of airport design and project management.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Strategy: "Describe your approach to developing a technical delivery strategy for a complex Baggage Handling System in a greenfield airport project." (Focus on phased approach, key considerations, stakeholder input, risk assessment).
• Integration Challenges: "How would you manage interface conflicts between the BHS, security screening equipment, and airport IT systems? Provide a specific example." (Highlight proactive coordination, clash detection, communication protocols).
• Team Leadership: "How do you foster collaboration and ensure technical excellence within a multi-disciplinary design team, especially when facing tight deadlines?" (Emphasize communication, mentorship, clear roles, performance management).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Parsons' work in the aviation sector, and how does your experience align with our values, particularly regarding innovation and sustainability?" (Research recent projects, sustainability initiatives, IDDP experience).
• "Describe a situation where you had to influence a key stakeholder with differing technical opinions. How did you approach it, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on communication, data-driven arguments, collaborative problem-solving).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Begin with an overview of your role and the project's scale. Then, dive into 2-3 key BHS projects, using a STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) format.
• Focus on Impact: Clearly articulate the specific challenges you addressed, the actions you took, and the quantifiable results you achieved (e.g., schedule savings, cost efficiencies, successful system integration, compliance met).
• Highlight Leadership & Collaboration: Showcase your management of teams, coordination with stakeholders, and problem-solving approach.
• Visuals: Use diagrams, renderings, or BIM model screenshots where appropriate to illustrate design concepts and coordination efforts.
• Brevity: Be concise and focused, ensuring you cover the most impactful aspects of your experience within the allocated time.

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare to discuss your experience with the IDDP model, BIM coordination, and specific BHS technologies in detail. Demonstrating a proactive, problem-solving mindset and strong leadership capabilities will be key to success.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the Parsons Corporation careers portal via the provided link.
• Portfolio Preparation: Curate a portfolio that prominently features your experience with Baggage Handling Systems (BHS) on large-scale airport or infrastructure projects. Ensure it includes detailed case studies demonstrating your design management, team leadership, systems integration, and problem-solving skills. Quantify achievements with metrics where possible.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight keywords such as "Baggage Handling Systems," "Design Management," "BIM Coordination," "ICAO Standards," "IDDP," "Stakeholder Engagement," "Risk Management," and "Project Delivery" within the context of aviation infrastructure. Clearly state your years of experience and specific responsibilities in relevant roles.
• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method, focusing on complex BHS projects. Prepare to discuss your approach to technical challenges, team leadership, and stakeholder management. Research Parsons' recent aviation projects and their commitment to innovation and sustainability.
• Company Research: Thoroughly understand Parsons Corporation's mission, values, and their role in major infrastructure development. Familiarize yourself with the Abu Dhabi airport development context and the IDDP model to demonstrate your alignment with the project's strategic goals.

⚠️ 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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