Water Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Water Design Manager
Company: AECOM
Location: Croydon, England, United Kingdom (with hybrid flexibility)
Job Type: Full-time
Category: Water Infrastructure Design & Management
Date Posted: 2025-08-18T11:58:26.472
Experience Level: 5-10 years (Mid to Senior Level)
Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the technical delivery and design lifecycle of complex water and wastewater infrastructure projects, including treatment plants and pipeline networks.
• Manage multi-disciplinary engineering teams to ensure value-added solutions and client satisfaction across all project stages from feasibility to handover.
• Oversee key project packages, fostering seamless collaboration between internal AECOM teams, external clients, and suppliers.
• Support the development and mentoring of junior engineering talent, driving technical excellence and operational capability within the Water business.
• Contribute to client engagement and stakeholder buy-in, promoting AECOM's innovative and sustainable approaches to water infrastructure challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a technical leadership and project management function within AECOM's Water Solutions team, focusing on the UK and Ireland market. The emphasis is on managing the design process, client relationships, and team development for significant water and wastewater projects.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the technical execution and strategic direction of water and wastewater infrastructure design projects, ensuring alignment with client objectives and AECOM's quality standards.
• Manage multi-disciplinary design teams, including civil, mechanical, electrical, and process engineers, to deliver integrated and efficient engineering solutions.
• Oversee the entire design lifecycle for key project packages, from initial feasibility studies and concept development through to detailed design, construction support, and asset management.
• Act as a primary technical point of contact for clients, fostering strong relationships, ensuring stakeholder buy-in, and proactively addressing project challenges.
• Mentor and develop junior engineers, providing guidance on technical design, project management methodologies, and career progression within AECOM's Water business.
• Drive innovation and the adoption of sustainable solutions in water and wastewater treatment and network design, contributing to AECOM's thought leadership in the sector.
• Collaborate with commercial and project management teams to ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest technical standards.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of AECOM's design processes, tools, and methodologies to enhance efficiency and project outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical leadership, project management, and people development, crucial for a Design Manager in the water sector. The mention of "part time opportunities to take on additional team responsibilities" suggests potential for career growth into broader operational management or team leadership roles.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent in a relevant engineering discipline (e.g., Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Environmental Engineering).

Experience:

• Proven experience in managing the technical delivery of water and wastewater engineering projects, with a strong emphasis on treatment schemes and/or pipeline design.
• Demonstrated experience in leading and managing multi-disciplinary design teams effectively.
• Substantial experience in a similar role within the water sector, working for a water company, consultancy, or contractor.
• Hands-on experience in designing complex wastewater treatment solutions.
• Experience in undertaking feasibility studies, options appraisal, concept design, outline design, and detailed design for water utility clients and design-and-build contractors.

Required Skills:

• Water & Wastewater Engineering Expertise: Deep understanding of water and wastewater treatment processes, hydraulic design, and asset management principles.
• Project Management: Proven ability to manage project scope, schedule, budget, and resources effectively.
• Team Leadership & Mentoring: Experience in leading, motivating, and developing engineering teams, including mentoring junior staff.
• Technical Delivery Management: Skill in overseeing the technical quality and execution of engineering designs across multiple disciplines.
• Client & Stakeholder Management: Strong ability to build and maintain relationships with clients, suppliers, and internal stakeholders.
• Design Lifecycle Management: Proficiency in managing projects through all stages, from feasibility to detailed design and construction support.
• Problem-Solving & Innovation: Ability to identify and resolve complex technical challenges and promote innovative solutions.

Preferred Skills:

• Chartered or Incorporated Engineer status with a relevant professional institution (e.g., ICE, CIWEM) or actively working towards it.
• Experience with specific water/wastewater treatment technologies and processes.
• Familiarity with relevant UK and EU water industry regulations and standards.
• Experience with design and build projects or frameworks.
• Proficiency in relevant design software and simulation tools (e.g., BIM, CAD, hydraulic modeling software).

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize practical experience in water and wastewater design and project management, with a preference for chartered status, indicating a need for recognized professional expertise and a commitment to continuous professional development within the operations of engineering projects.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a portfolio of successfully managed water and wastewater engineering projects, demonstrating leadership in technical delivery from concept to completion.
• Include examples of managing multi-disciplinary teams and coordinating design efforts across various engineering specialisms.
• Present case studies that highlight your approach to problem-solving, innovation, and delivering sustainable solutions within the water sector.
• Demonstrate experience in client engagement, stakeholder management, and ensuring buy-in for technical proposals and designs.
• Provide evidence of managing project packages, including scope, schedule, and resource allocation, with a focus on efficiency and value delivery.

Process Documentation:

• Document your approach to managing the design lifecycle, including phases for feasibility studies, options appraisal, concept design, and detailed design.
• Illustrate your methodologies for quality assurance and control in engineering design processes.
• Detail your experience in implementing project management processes for technical delivery, including risk management and change control.
• Provide examples of how you have mentored and developed junior engineers, outlining your approach to skill development and team building.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio demonstrating hands-on project management of water infrastructure design, team leadership, and client interaction is crucial. The emphasis on process documentation signifies a need to articulate systematic approaches to engineering project execution and team development.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on AECOM's industry standing, the location in Croydon (near London), and the senior nature of the Water Design Manager role (5-10 years experience), a competitive salary range is estimated to be between £55,000 and £75,000 per annum. This estimate is derived from industry benchmarks for similar roles in the UK engineering consultancy sector, considering the specific responsibilities and the demand for experienced water sector professionals.

Benefits:

• Career Development Opportunities: Access to structured career paths, training programs, and opportunities for advancement within AECOM.
• Flexible Hybrid Working Model: The ability to balance work between AECOM offices and a remote location, promoting work-life balance.
• Technical Practice Networks: Involvement in AECOM's specialized technical groups to share knowledge and stay updated on industry best practices.
• AECOM University: Access to extensive learning and development resources for continuous professional growth.
• Volunteering Days: Paid time off to contribute to community and charitable initiatives.
• Comprehensive Health and Well-being Programs: Designed to support employee health and personal well-being.
• Pension Scheme: Competitive employer contribution to a pension plan.
• Life Assurance: Financial protection for dependents.
• Employee Assistance Program: Confidential support services for personal and professional issues.
• Cycle to Work Scheme: Encouraging sustainable commuting options.

Working Hours:

• Typically 40 hours per week, with flexibility offered through the hybrid working model to accommodate personal needs and enhance work-life balance, aligning with operational demands and project timelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on UK market rates for experienced Design Managers in the engineering consultancy sector, particularly in the London commuter belt. The benefits package is standard for a large, global firm like AECOM, with a strong emphasis on professional development and flexible working.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Infrastructure Consulting & Engineering. AECOM operates globally, providing a wide range of services across transportation, buildings, water, new energy, and the environment. Company Size: Large, Fortune 500 firm with over 50,000 employees worldwide. This scale offers significant opportunities for diverse project exposure and career mobility. Founded: AECOM has a long history, evolving through mergers and acquisitions, with its current form established to be a leading global infrastructure firm. The company's founding principles are centered on delivering impactful projects and solving complex challenges.

Team Structure:

• The Water Solutions team in England & Wales is comprised of approximately 700 experts, indicating a substantial and specialized group within AECOM.
• The Design Manager will likely report to a Senior Manager or Director within the Water business unit.
• Collaboration is expected to be cross-functional, involving civil, mechanical, electrical, and process engineers, as well as project managers, environmental specialists, and commercial teams.

Methodology:

• AECOM emphasizes a data-driven approach, leveraging technical and digital expertise to deliver solutions.
• Workflow planning and optimization are key to managing complex infrastructure projects efficiently.
• The company fosters an environment of innovation and continuous improvement in its engineering and project delivery practices.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's culture is global, focused on delivering impactful infrastructure and fostering employee growth. The Water Solutions team is a significant part of their UK operations, offering a collaborative environment with access to a broad range of expertise and resources.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This Water Design Manager role is a mid-to-senior level position, typically requiring 5-10 years of relevant experience. It represents a key technical leadership role within the project delivery framework, bridging design expertise with project management responsibilities. Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will likely report to a Principal Engineer, Technical Director, or a similar senior leadership role within the Water business. They will manage project teams and potentially mentor junior staff, indicating a leadership capacity. Operations Impact: The role has a direct impact on the successful delivery of critical water and wastewater infrastructure projects. Effective design management ensures projects meet technical specifications, client requirements, and sustainability goals, ultimately contributing to public health, environmental protection, and economic development.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas of water or wastewater treatment design, becoming a subject matter expert.
• Project Leadership: Progress to managing larger, more complex, or multi-site projects, potentially taking on Program Management roles.
• People Management: Transition into broader team leadership or management roles, overseeing larger groups of engineers and supporting staff.
• Business Development: Contribute to client relationship management and the pursuit of new projects, leveraging technical expertise.
• International Opportunities: With AECOM's global presence, there may be opportunities to work on international projects or transfers.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear pathway for career progression within engineering project management and technical leadership within the water sector. The potential for broader team management responsibilities mentioned in the job description suggests a dual track for advancement into either highly specialized technical leadership or operational management.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: AECOM operates modern office environments designed to support collaboration and focused work. The Croydon office is likely equipped with the necessary facilities for engineering design and project coordination. Office Location(s): The primary location is Croydon, England, which is a significant commercial hub within Greater London, offering good transport links. AECOM also has a presence across England & Wales, suggesting potential for project-based work at various client sites or other AECOM offices.

Workspace Context:

• The environment is expected to be collaborative, with opportunities to interact with a diverse range of engineering professionals.
• Access to AECOM's technological infrastructure, including design software, data management systems, and communication platforms, will be provided.
• The hybrid working model allows for flexibility, enabling individuals to choose their work location based on task requirements and personal preference, balancing office-based collaboration with remote focus.

Work Schedule: Standard full-time working hours (approximately 40 per week) are expected, with the flexibility afforded by the hybrid model allowing for adjustments to suit project demands and personal needs, provided operational requirements are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid working model is a key feature, indicating an adaptable work environment that prioritizes both collaboration and individual productivity. The London-adjacent location of Croydon suggests a dynamic professional setting with excellent connectivity.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of CVs and applications by HR or a recruiter to assess basic qualifications and experience.
• Technical Interview: Likely with a hiring manager (e.g., Jay Hewitt) and/or senior technical experts from the Water team. This stage will delve into your technical expertise in water/wastewater design, project management experience, and leadership capabilities. Be prepared to discuss specific projects and challenges.
• Case Study/Technical Exercise: You may be asked to present a portfolio, discuss a hypothetical design challenge, or analyze a past project to demonstrate your problem-solving approach, technical acumen, and communication skills.
• Team/Cultural Fit Interview: Meetings with potential team members or other senior leaders to assess your fit with AECOM's culture, values, and collaboration style.
• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior director or department head for final approval.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Select Projects: Choose 3-4 key projects that best showcase your experience in water/wastewater design management, multi-disciplinary team leadership, and successful project delivery.
• Focus on Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the challenge, your role, the solutions implemented, and the measurable outcomes (e.g., efficiency gains, cost savings, environmental improvements, client satisfaction). Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
• Demonstrate Leadership: Highlight instances where you led teams, mentored junior staff, managed stakeholders, and drove technical innovation.
• Visual Aids: Use clear diagrams, flowcharts, and relevant data visualizations to support your project descriptions.
• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize aspects of your experience that directly align with the responsibilities and requirements outlined in the job description.

Challenge Preparation:

• Anticipate Technical Questions: Review common water/wastewater treatment processes, hydraulic principles, and design considerations for networks and plants.
• Practice Project Management Scenarios: Prepare to discuss how you handle scope creep, budget constraints, schedule delays, and team conflicts.
• Develop Leadership Examples: Be ready to provide specific examples of how you have mentored, motivated, and managed teams to achieve project goals.
• Understand AECOM's Values: Research AECOM's mission, values, and recent projects to demonstrate your alignment and interest.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is likely to be rigorous, assessing both technical proficiency and leadership potential. A well-prepared portfolio that clearly demonstrates your project management and technical design leadership in the water sector will be critical for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency in tools like MS Project, Primavera P6, or similar for project planning, scheduling, and resource management.
• Design & Engineering Software: Familiarity with CAD platforms (e.g., AutoCAD, Civil 3D), BIM software (e.g., Revit), and hydraulic modeling software (e.g., EPANET, InfoWorks WS Pro, Bentley WaterCAD/WaterGEMS) is highly advantageous.
• Collaboration Platforms: Experience with Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, or similar for team communication and document sharing.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret project data, performance metrics, and financial reports. Experience with Excel for data analysis is essential.
• Reporting Tools: Familiarity with creating project status reports, technical summaries, and client presentations.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: While not a direct sales role, understanding CRM principles for client relationship management can be beneficial.
• Automation Tools: Awareness of how automation can be applied to design processes, project workflows, or reporting.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific tool requirements aren't detailed, a strong foundation in project management, CAD/BIM, and hydraulic modeling software is standard for this type of role in the water engineering sector. Familiarity with AECOM's internal systems would be an advantage.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity: Upholding ethical standards in all professional dealings and project execution.
• Entrepreneurial Spirit: Proactively identifying opportunities for innovation and business improvement.
• Pioneering Mindset: Embracing new technologies and approaches to solve complex challenges.
• Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion: Valuing diverse perspectives and fostering an inclusive work environment where everyone can contribute their best.
• Collaboration: Working effectively across disciplines and with clients to achieve shared goals.
• Commitment to Sustainability: Integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles into project design and delivery.

Collaboration Style:

• AECOM promotes a collaborative environment where cross-functional teams work together to deliver integrated solutions.
• Expect a culture that encourages open communication, knowledge sharing, and mutual support among team members.
• The role requires active engagement with clients and partners, necessitating strong interpersonal and communication skills to build trust and ensure alignment.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's culture emphasizes innovation, collaboration, and a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion. Employees are encouraged to be proactive and contribute to a positive, forward-thinking work environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Complex Multi-disciplinary Projects: Coordinating diverse engineering teams and ensuring seamless integration of designs can be challenging.
• Meeting Evolving Client Demands: Adapting to changing project requirements and client expectations in a dynamic market.
• Driving Innovation: Encouraging and implementing new technologies and sustainable practices within established project frameworks.
• Developing Junior Talent: Balancing project delivery with the mentorship and development of less experienced engineers.
• Navigating Regulatory Environments: Staying abreast of and ensuring compliance with complex water industry regulations and standards.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Access to specialized courses and workshops in water/wastewater engineering, design software, and project management methodologies.
• Leadership Development Programs: Opportunities to enhance leadership, communication, and management skills.
• Industry Conferences & Networking: Participation in industry events to stay current with trends and network with peers.
• Mentorship Programs: Benefit from guidance from experienced senior professionals within AECOM.
• Exposure to Diverse Projects: Work on a variety of projects, from new builds to upgrades, across different water utilities, broadening experience and expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents opportunities to tackle significant engineering challenges and contribute to impactful infrastructure projects. AECOM's commitment to learning and development provides a strong framework for continuous professional growth and career advancement within the water sector.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Operations Strategy: "How would you approach developing a design strategy for a large-scale wastewater treatment plant upgrade, considering sustainability and operational efficiency?" Be prepared to discuss phases, key considerations, and stakeholder engagement.
• Collaboration & Stakeholder Management: "Describe a time you had to manage conflicting priorities between different engineering disciplines or stakeholders. How did you facilitate a resolution?" Focus on communication, negotiation, and problem-solving.
• Problem-Solving: "Walk me through a complex technical design challenge you faced in a water project and how you overcame it. What was the outcome, and what did you learn?" Highlight your analytical skills and innovative thinking.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Company Operations: "What do you know about AECOM's approach to water infrastructure projects, and how do your skills align with our values of innovation and sustainability?" Research recent AECOM projects and their ESG commitments.
• Team Dynamics: "How do you foster a collaborative and high-performing environment within a multi-disciplinary engineering team?" Discuss your leadership style and experience in mentoring.
• Impact Measurement: "How do you measure the success of a design project beyond technical compliance? What metrics are important to you?" Focus on client satisfaction, efficiency, and broader project impacts.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structured Narrative: For each project, clearly outline the context, your specific role and responsibilities, the technical approach, challenges encountered, solutions implemented, and the ultimate results or impact.
• Data-Driven Evidence: Quantify your achievements wherever possible. Use metrics related to project delivery (time, budget), design efficiency, environmental benefits, or operational improvements.
• Visual Clarity: Use high-quality visuals (diagrams, photos, charts) to illustrate your points. Ensure your presentation is clean, professional, and easy to follow.
• Conciseness: Be prepared to present your key projects within a specified timeframe, highlighting the most relevant aspects for the Water Design Manager role. Practice your delivery to ensure confidence and clarity.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong understanding of water engineering principles, robust project management capabilities, effective leadership, and a commitment to AECOM's values. A well-articulated portfolio is key to showcasing practical experience and problem-solving skills.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the AECOM careers portal via the provided job link.
• Portfolio Customization: Curate a portfolio that prominently features your water and wastewater design management experience, highlighting leadership in multi-disciplinary teams and successful project lifecycle execution. Select projects that best demonstrate your problem-solving skills and ability to deliver sustainable solutions.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to emphasize keywords and responsibilities mentioned in the job description, such as "Water Design Manager," "wastewater treatment," "pipeline design," "multi-disciplinary team leadership," and "project delivery." Quantify achievements with specific data where possible.
• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method. Prepare specific examples that showcase your technical expertise, project management skills, and leadership approach. Be ready to discuss AECOM's work and values.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with AECOM's recent projects in the water sector, their approach to sustainability, and their company culture. This will allow you to tailor your responses and demonstrate genuine interest during the interview process.

⚠️ 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.