Senior Lead Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Lead Designer (BIM/CAD - Dry Utilities) Company: AtkinsRéalis Location: Bangalore, India (AtkinsRéalis - Corporate Office) Job Type: Full-Time, Regular Category: Engineering Design & BIM Operations Date Posted: October 14, 2025 Experience Level: 10+ Years Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is pivotal in enhancing design delivery processes and ensuring adherence to common standards within AtkinsRéalis' Middle East delivery team.
• Focuses on leveraging BIM and CAD technologies for infrastructure utility design, with a strong emphasis on dry utilities.
• Involves a combination of direct project support and internal process improvement initiatives to drive efficiency and quality.
• Requires a proactive individual skilled in people, process, and tool optimization to elevate design delivery techniques.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a Senior Lead Designer, implying a significant level of technical expertise and the ability to guide and mentor junior team members. The emphasis on "people, process, tool (in that order)" highlights a strategic approach to operations improvement that prioritizes human capital and workflow optimization before technology implementation.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Serve as a key member of the AtkinsRéalis BIM/CAD team within the Middle East delivery unit, contributing to high-impact infrastructure projects.
• Independently deliver complex CAD and BIM work packages for dry utility infrastructure, requiring minimal supervision.
• Provide essential support to project teams during proposal development and the entire project lifecycle, ensuring technical excellence.
• Develop and deliver project deliverables, including detailed drawings and comprehensive reports, strictly adhering to client scopes, budgets, and quality benchmarks.
• Actively train and mentor new and existing staff in BIM/CAD software, standards, and best practices for infrastructure utility design.
• Drive internal process improvements within the BIM/CAD team, focusing on efficiency gains and adoption of the latest design delivery techniques.
• Coordinate and integrate CAD and BIM model inputs across multi-disciplinary project teams to ensure seamless collaboration and conflict resolution.
• Prepare and present detailed progress reports for internal reviews and client meetings, showcasing project status, challenges, and solutions.
• Prepare single-line diagrams and standard drawings that meet stringent industry and client specifications.
• Responsible for the creation and maintenance of fully coordinated 3D models of utility systems using Autodesk Civil 3D and Autodesk Revit.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a dual focus on direct project contribution (delivering CAD/BIM work, preparing deliverables) and broader operational impact (training, process improvements, standard adherence). This suggests a role that blends technical execution with strategic operational enhancement for the design function.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Electrical or Civil Engineering, or an equivalent technical discipline.

Experience:

• 6 to 15 years of progressive drafting and design experience, with a strong focus on infrastructure and utility projects.
• Extensive experience in detailing Dry infrastructure utilities.
• 6-12 years of hands-on experience with AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and Revit (Revit experience is an added advantage).

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in AutoCAD and Civil 3D for utility design, including alignment, parcel, corridor, surface, and pipe network creation and manipulation.
• Proven ability to create, edit, and manage Civil 3D labels, surfaces, and pipe networks, including sizing, spacing, and minimum cover calculations.
• Experience in BIM (Building Information Modeling) principles and application in infrastructure projects.
• Ability to coordinate with sub-consultants and design engineers, ensuring design alignment and integration.
• Strong skills in preparing and managing engineering plans and project documents.
• Capability to evaluate engineering alternatives and effectively resolve technical issues.
• Demonstrated ability to plan, coordinate, and execute work safely, efficiently, and in compliance with project requirements.
• Skill in researching and adhering to jurisdictional requirements specific to diverse projects.
• Experience in reviewing and drafting rough sketches and drawings provided by management or BIM Managers.
• Understanding and application of BIM and CAD standards.
• Ability to resolve clashes between different utility systems within a coordinated model.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities with a systematic approach to identifying and resolving design challenges.
• Strong written and spoken English communication skills suitable for a business environment.

Preferred Skills:

• Knowledge of BIM standards and experience in Revit Family Creations.
• Proficiency in Autodesk Revit for 3D modeling of utility systems.
• Expertise in 3D modeling, reality capture, 4D and 5D simulations, Digital Twin concepts, and data integrations.
• Knowledge of a wide variety of authoring tools beyond Autodesk, such as Bentley and Esri.
• Proficiency in additional Autodesk BIM Software: Navisworks, ReCap, and InfraWorks.
• Experience implementing and administrating Common Data Environments (CDEs) like Bentley ProjectWise, MS Teams, SharePoint, and BIM360.
• Ability to adapt to different cultures and working environments, fostering strong client rapport.
• Creative thinking with a positive, "can-do" attitude.
• Confident and professional demeanor in client interactions and team settings.
• Ability to work independently and take proactive initiative in task management and problem resolution.
• Self-motivated with a commitment to continuous professional development.
• Flexibility in work tasks and willingness to adapt to different work locations.
• Proven responsibility for the timely and cost-effective completion of assigned tasks.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements clearly distinguish between essential skills (Civil 3D, AutoCAD, infrastructure detailing) and highly desirable ones (Revit, advanced BIM concepts, CDE administration). This indicates a need for a strong foundation in core design tools with a significant advantage for candidates who have experience with broader digital engineering workflows and modern CDE platforms.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 complex dry utility infrastructure projects, detailing the scope, your specific role, and the challenges overcome.
• Include examples of detailed drawings, 3D models (screenshots or interactive links if possible), and any technical reports or documentation you prepared.
• Demonstrate your proficiency in using Autodesk Civil 3D for alignment, corridor, surface, and pipe network design, with specific examples of complex configurations.
• Present case studies of process improvements you initiated or contributed to, highlighting efficiency gains, quality enhancements, or cost savings achieved through better design workflows or tool adoption.
• Provide evidence of your experience with BIM standards and their practical application in coordinating multi-disciplinary utility designs.

Process Documentation:

• Be prepared to discuss your approach to establishing and enforcing CAD/BIM standards for utility design projects.
• Detail your experience in creating and maintaining project-specific drawing registers, CAD file structures, and naming conventions.
• Explain how you ensure coordinated design inputs from different disciplines and manage clash detection and resolution processes.
• Demonstrate an understanding of how to document design decisions, revisions, and client feedback loops within a project.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Senior Lead Designer role, a portfolio is crucial. The emphasis should be on demonstrating not just technical execution but also leadership in process improvement, standard adherence, and cross-functional coordination. Candidates should be ready to articulate the "why" behind their design choices and process recommendations.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for a Senior Lead Designer with 10+ years of experience in India, particularly in a specialized engineering consultancy like AtkinsRéalis, the estimated annual salary range is ₹1,200,000 to ₹2,200,000 (INR). This estimate considers the seniority of the role, the specialized nature of dry utilities and BIM, and the cost of living in Bangalore.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and eligible dependents.
• Retirement Savings Plan: Contributions or options for a provident fund or similar retirement schemes.
• Professional Development: Access to a high-ranging training portfolio, development activities, and opportunities for corporate membership in relevant institutions.
• Flexible Working Arrangements: Hybrid work environment with flexibility, supporting work-life balance.
• Annual Leave and Paid Time Off: Generous leave policies, including public holidays and personal leave.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services for personal and work-related issues.
• Life Insurance: Basic life insurance coverage.
• Opportunities for Growth: Potential for career progression and sideways moves as the team expands.

Working Hours:

• Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, with flexibility offered through the hybrid work model. Specific daily schedules may vary but are generally aligned with business needs and project deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on typical compensation for senior design roles in major Indian engineering hubs, considering the specialized skills and experience required. Benefits are inferred from standard offerings in large, multinational engineering firms aiming to attract and retain talent.

🌐 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: AtkinsRéalis operates in the Engineering Services and Nuclear sectors, providing world-class consultancy, design, engineering, and project management across infrastructure and energy systems. This industry demands precision, innovation, and a strong commitment to safety and sustainability. Company Size: AtkinsRéalis is a large, global professional services company with a significant presence worldwide. This scale offers stability, diverse project opportunities, and exposure to international best practices. Founded: With organizational roots dating back to 1911, AtkinsRéalis has a long history of engineering excellence and has evolved through integrations to become a leading global entity. This legacy implies a culture of deep technical expertise and adaptability.

Team Structure:

• The role sits within the BIM/CAD team, part of the Middle East delivery team.
• This team likely collaborates closely with Civil Engineers, Electrical Engineers, Project Managers, and potentially other design disciplines.
• Reporting is expected to be to a BIM/CAD Manager or a Senior Engineering Lead, with the role itself expected to lead design tasks and mentor junior members.

Methodology:

• The company emphasizes a "people, process, tool (in that order)" approach, indicating a strategic focus on human capital and workflow optimization before technology adoption.
• Data-driven decision-making and adherence to common standards are core to ensuring project quality and efficiency.
• A collaborative environment is fostered, encouraging diverse perspectives and knowledge sharing.

Company Website: www.atkinsrealis.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's emphasis on its long history and global reach suggests a culture that values both established engineering principles and forward-thinking innovation. The "people, process, tool" mantra is a strong indicator of an operations-focused mindset within the design function.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Senior Lead Designer position, signifying a mid-to-senior level role within the design and engineering operations function. It requires not only advanced technical proficiency but also the ability to guide, mentor, and influence design processes and standards. Reporting Structure: The Senior Lead Designer will likely report to a BIM Manager or a senior engineering lead. They are expected to lead design tasks for specific projects and potentially supervise or mentor junior designers and BIM technicians. Operations Impact: This role directly impacts project delivery by ensuring high-quality, efficient, and standards-compliant design outputs for dry utility infrastructure. By improving design processes and mentoring teams, the role contributes to AtkinsRéalis' overall project success, client satisfaction, and profitability.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in advanced BIM, Digital Twins, reality capture, and specific utility systems.
• Leadership Development: Progress into roles with greater team leadership, project management responsibilities, or BIM management.
• Process Improvement Leadership: Lead initiatives for adopting new design technologies, workflows, or CDE platforms.
• Cross-functional Exposure: Gain experience in other engineering disciplines or project management aspects within AtkinsRéalis.
• Global Mobility: Opportunities to work on international projects or gain experience in different regional standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior Lead" title implies a pathway towards management or advanced technical specialization. The company's commitment to training and development suggests a structured approach to career progression for its operations and technical staff.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a hybrid role, indicating a blend of on-site work at the AtkinsRéalis Corporate Office in Bangalore and remote work. This setup aims to balance collaborative needs with employee flexibility. Office Location(s): AtkinsRéalis - Corporate Office Bangalore, India. The specific location within Bangalore would typically be in a well-established business district, offering accessibility.

Workspace Context:

• The office environment is expected to be professional and collaborative, fostering interaction among design teams and other engineering disciplines.
• Access to necessary design software, hardware, and potentially specialized BIM coordination tools will be provided.
• Opportunities for informal knowledge sharing and formal training sessions will be available.

Work Schedule:

• A standard 40-hour work week is expected, with flexibility managed through the hybrid model. The specific daily schedule might be subject to project demands and team coordination, but the overall framework supports work-life balance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role suggests a modern work environment that values both in-person collaboration for complex problem-solving and remote work for focused individual tasks, aligning with current industry trends for engineering and design professionals.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Application review and potential phone screen with HR or a recruiter to assess basic qualifications and cultural fit.
• Technical Interview(s): In-depth discussion with hiring managers and senior team members focusing on technical skills, experience with Civil 3D, BIM, dry utilities, and problem-solving scenarios.
• Portfolio Presentation: Candidates will likely be asked to present their portfolio, showcasing specific projects, their role, and contributions. This is a critical stage to demonstrate practical application of skills and impact.
• Case Study/Technical Challenge: A practical exercise or case study related to utility design coordination or process improvement might be assigned to evaluate problem-solving and technical approach.
• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership to discuss career aspirations, leadership potential, and overall fit within AtkinsRéalis.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure and Clarity: Organize your portfolio logically, highlighting key projects with clear descriptions of scope, your responsibilities, and the outcomes. Use visual aids effectively.
• Quantify Impact: Wherever possible, quantify your achievements. For process improvements, cite metrics like time saved, error reduction, or cost efficiencies.
• Showcase Leadership: For a Senior Lead role, emphasize instances where you mentored colleagues, led design efforts, or championed new processes.
• Tailor to the Role: Focus on projects and skills most relevant to dry utilities, BIM, and Civil 3D. Highlight experience with Middle East standards if applicable.
• Be Prepared to Discuss: Beyond presenting, be ready to discuss your design decisions, challenges faced, and lessons learned.

Challenge Preparation:

• Review Core Skills: Refresh your knowledge of Civil 3D functionalities, BIM coordination principles, and common dry utility design challenges.
• Understand Company Context: Research AtkinsRéalis' projects, values, and their approach to engineering and design.
• Practice Explaining Processes: Be ready to articulate your approach to workflow optimization, standard implementation, and team training.
• Scenario-Based Questions: Prepare for questions that assess your ability to handle technical conflicts, client issues, and team dynamics.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is likely to be rigorous, emphasizing practical skills and the ability to articulate one's contributions. A strong portfolio and the ability to discuss process improvement are key differentiators for this senior role.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Autodesk Civil 3D: Core software for infrastructure design, including alignments, corridors, surfaces, and pipe networks. Expect in-depth questions on its advanced features.
• Autodesk Revit: Essential for BIM modeling, coordination, and creating intelligent 3D models of utility systems.
• AutoCAD: Fundamental 2D drafting and design software.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Navisworks: Crucial for model aggregation, clash detection, and project review in a multi-disciplinary environment.
• ReCap: Likely used for reality capture and integrating scan data into design models.
• InfraWorks: May be used for conceptual design, site analysis, and visualization of infrastructure projects.

CRM & Automation:

• Common Data Environments (CDEs):
  • Bentley ProjectWise: A robust platform for document management and project collaboration.
  • Autodesk BIM 360/ACC: Cloud-based platform for project collaboration and data management.
  • MS Teams/SharePoint: For general team communication, document sharing, and workflow management.
• Esri (GIS Software): Potentially used for geospatial analysis and integration with design data.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in the Autodesk AEC Collection (Civil 3D, Revit, Navisworks) is a baseline requirement. Experience with CDE platforms is highly valued, indicating a move towards integrated digital project delivery and collaborative workflows.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Delivery: A commitment to high-quality, accurate, and efficient design output that meets client expectations and industry standards.
• Collaboration and Teamwork: Fostering a supportive environment where team members work together, share knowledge, and help each other succeed.
• Continuous Improvement: Embracing a mindset of ongoing learning and refinement of processes, tools, and techniques to enhance performance.
• Innovation: Encouraging creative thinking and the adoption of new technologies and methodologies to solve complex engineering challenges.
• Integrity and Professionalism: Upholding ethical standards and maintaining a professional demeanor in all interactions.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively engaging with other engineering disciplines (electrical, structural, etc.) and project managers to ensure holistic project development.
• Proactive Communication: Maintaining open and clear communication channels with internal teams and external stakeholders (clients, sub-consultants).
• Feedback Culture: Encouraging constructive feedback for continuous learning and process refinement.
• Knowledge Sharing: Participating in team meetings, workshops, and internal forums to disseminate best practices and lessons learned.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's stated values and collaborative style suggest an environment that supports professional growth while demanding a high level of technical competence and teamwork. The emphasis on "people, process, tool" reinforces a structured approach to achieving operational excellence.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Diverse Project Demands: Balancing the needs of various projects simultaneously, each with unique technical requirements and deadlines.
• Adopting New Technologies: Staying abreast of and integrating rapidly evolving BIM and digital engineering tools and workflows.
• Ensuring Standards Adherence: Consistently enforcing design standards across a team and diverse projects, especially with a hybrid work model.
• Mentoring and Upskilling: Effectively training and developing junior staff to meet the company's technical and operational expectations.
• Resolving Complex Clashes: Tackling intricate inter-utility conflicts in densely designed infrastructure environments.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced BIM & Digital Engineering: Training in areas like Digital Twins, 4D/5D simulations, and data analytics for infrastructure.
• Specialized Utility Design: Deep dives into specific dry utility systems (power, telecom, gas) and their design nuances.
• Project Management Fundamentals: Development of skills in project planning, risk management, and stakeholder communication.
• Leadership and Mentorship: Formal training programs for developing leadership capabilities and effective mentoring techniques.
• Industry Certifications: Support for obtaining relevant professional certifications in BIM, engineering, or project management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for senior roles in dynamic engineering environments, offering significant opportunities for skill development and professional growth. The company's commitment to training suggests a supportive framework for tackling these challenges.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you implemented a new design process or tool. What was the impact, and what challenges did you face?" (Focus on your methodology, quantifiable results, and problem-solving.)
• "How do you ensure consistency and quality in design deliverables across a team, especially in a hybrid work environment?" (Highlight your approach to standards, QA/QC, and communication.)
• "Walk me through a complex clash you resolved between dry utilities on a project. What was your approach, and what was the outcome?" (Demonstrate your technical problem-solving skills and coordination capabilities.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about AtkinsRéalis and this specific Senior Lead Designer role?" (Research company projects, values, and connect your aspirations to their mission.)
• "How do you align with AtkinsRéalis' 'people, process, tool' philosophy?" (Discuss your belief in prioritizing human capital and workflow efficiency.)
• "Describe your experience working in diverse or international teams. How do you adapt to different cultures?" (Highlight your adaptability and cross-cultural communication skills.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Frame your project examples as narratives – the challenge, your solution, and the impact.
• Visuals are Key: Use clear, concise visuals (screenshots, diagrams, model views) to illustrate your points. Avoid overwhelming slides.
• Focus on Impact: For each project or process improvement, emphasize the tangible benefits delivered (e.g., efficiency gains, error reduction, cost savings).
• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Expect questions about your specific contributions, technical decisions, and problem-solving approaches.
• Showcase Leadership: Highlight instances where you guided junior team members or led design initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not only technical expertise but also leadership potential, process improvement capabilities, and a strong understanding of collaborative design workflows. The portfolio is your primary tool for showcasing these aspects.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Lead Designer position:

• Submit your application through the AtkinsRéalis Careers portal via the provided URL.
• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 3-5 of your most impactful dry utility infrastructure projects. For each, clearly define the scope, your specific contributions (focusing on Civil 3D and BIM aspects), challenges encountered, and the positive outcomes achieved. Include visual aids like drawings, model screenshots, or diagrams.
• Optimize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight your 10+ years of relevant experience, emphasizing keywords such as Civil 3D, Revit, BIM, dry utilities, infrastructure design, process improvement, and leadership. Quantify achievements where possible.
• Prepare for Technical Discussions: Review your expertise in Autodesk Civil 3D (alignments, corridors, surfaces, pipe networks) and Revit modeling. Be ready to discuss your experience with BIM coordination, clash detection, and adherence to design standards, particularly in the context of utility infrastructure.
• Research AtkinsRéalis: Familiarize yourself with the company's global presence, project portfolio (especially in infrastructure), and stated values (e.g., "people, process, tool," diversity, inclusion). Understand their approach to engineering services.

⚠️ 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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