Water Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Water Design Manager Company: AECOM Location: Croydon, England, United Kingdom (with potential for Leeds, UK) Job Type: Full-time Category: Operations - Infrastructure Design Management Date Posted: August 18, 2025 Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (5-10 years) Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on leading the technical execution and strategic oversight of water and wastewater infrastructure projects, requiring robust project management and design leadership capabilities.
• The position involves managing multi-disciplinary teams and ensuring the seamless delivery of complex water and wastewater treatment and network projects from initial concept through to handover and asset management.
• Key responsibilities include client liaison, stakeholder management, and contributing to the development of innovative and sustainable engineering solutions within the water sector.
• The role also offers opportunities for line management, team development, and potential expansion into broader operational responsibilities within AECOM's Water business.

📝 Enhancement Note: Based on the job description, this role aligns with operations management within an engineering consultancy, specifically focusing on the 'delivery' and 'management' aspects of projects, rather than pure sales or revenue generation. The emphasis on leading teams and managing project lifecycles positions it within a broader GTM (Go-To-Market) support function, ensuring operational excellence in project execution. The mention of potential additional team responsibilities suggests a progression path into operational leadership within the business unit.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead Technical Delivery: Drive the technical execution of water and wastewater infrastructure projects, including treatment plants and network systems, managing multi-disciplinary teams to deliver value-added solutions.
• Project Package Management: Oversee key project work packages from conception through to completion and handover, ensuring integration with AECOM teams, client requirements, and supplier collaborations for a seamless technical solution.
• Client and Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborate closely with clients and AECOM partners to gain stakeholder buy-in for proposed solutions, ensuring project alignment and satisfaction throughout the design lifecycle.
• Team Development and Mentorship: Perform line management duties, supporting the professional development of junior engineers and technical staff, guiding their project contributions and providing mentorship.
• Feasibility and Design Lifecycle Management: Undertake feasibility studies, options appraisals, concept designs, and detailed designs for water company clients and design-and-build contractors, ensuring adherence to project scope and quality standards.
• Innovation and Capability Enhancement: Contribute to AECOM’s wider technical capability, promoting innovative approaches and sustainable solutions within the water sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize end-to-end project oversight, from initial feasibility through to operational handover, which is critical for a Design Manager in an infrastructure consultancy. The "Lead," "Manage," and "Collaborate" directives highlight the operational management and client-facing aspects inherent in such a role. The inclusion of "Develop" indicates a focus on team building and skill enhancement, integral to maintaining a high-performing operations delivery team.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• A degree or equivalent in a relevant engineering subject (e.g., Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Chemical, Environmental Engineering).
• Chartered or Incorporated Engineer status with a relevant professional institution (e.g., ICE, CIWEM) or demonstrable progress towards achieving such status.

Experience:

• Significant experience (typically 5-10 years) in managing the technical delivery of water and wastewater engineering projects.
• Proven experience in leading multi-disciplinary design teams to achieve project objectives.
• Hands-on design experience, particularly with complex wastewater treatment solutions and/or pipeline design.
• Relevant experience working within a water company, consultancy, or contractor environment.
• Demonstrated experience in undertaking feasibility studies, options appraisals, concept design, and/or outline and detailed design for water sector clients.

Required Skills:

• Water & Wastewater Engineering: Deep understanding of water and wastewater treatment processes, infrastructure design principles, and relevant regulatory standards.
• Project Management: Proven ability to manage project timelines, budgets, and resources effectively for complex engineering projects.
• Team Leadership & Management: Experience in leading, motivating, and developing multi-disciplinary engineering teams.
• Design Management: Strong capability in overseeing the entire design lifecycle, from feasibility to detailed design, ensuring quality and constructability.
• Client Relationship Management: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for effective client liaison and stakeholder engagement.
• Technical Proficiency: Ability to interpret and develop technical designs for water and wastewater systems.

Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with AECOM's key clients in the England & Wales water sector (e.g., Wessex Water, Thames Water, Welsh Water).
• Experience with design and build projects and contractor interfaces.
• Knowledge of asset management principles within the water industry.
• Proficiency in relevant design software and project management tools.
• Experience in process optimization and sustainable solution development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications reflect a senior operational role requiring both technical engineering depth and management acumen. The emphasis on chartered status indicates a need for recognized professional expertise, crucial for client trust and project credibility in the infrastructure sector. The preferred skills highlight an operational need for familiarity with specific industry players and project delivery models.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Leadership Case Studies: Demonstrations of leading multi-disciplinary teams on significant water/wastewater projects, highlighting your role in technical direction and decision-making.
• Design Lifecycle Management: Examples of managing projects through various stages, from feasibility and concept to detailed design and construction, showcasing your process oversight.
• Client Collaboration & Problem Solving: Evidence of successful client engagement, including how you managed stakeholder expectations and resolved technical challenges.
• Team Development Initiatives: Examples of mentoring junior staff or implementing strategies to improve team performance and skill development.
• Sustainability & Innovation: Projects where you championed or implemented sustainable design principles or innovative solutions.

Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate understanding of design control processes, ensuring quality and compliance throughout the design lifecycle.
• Showcase experience with risk management processes in engineering design and project delivery.
• Provide examples of how you have documented and improved design workflows for efficiency and clarity.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role, a portfolio is crucial for showcasing practical application of skills. The emphasis should be on demonstrating leadership in complex projects, effective team management, and successful client engagement, all within the context of the water infrastructure lifecycle. This aligns with operations' need to prove capability in delivering projects efficiently and to high standards.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Given the experience level (5-10 years), location (Croydon/Leeds, UK), and the senior nature of the role within a major engineering consultancy like AECOM, a competitive salary is expected. Based on industry benchmarks for Water Design Managers in the UK, the estimated salary range would be £55,000 - £75,000 per annum.
• This estimate considers factors such as the complexity of projects, the required technical expertise, leadership responsibilities, and the cost of living in the specified regions.

Benefits:

• Career Development Opportunities: Access to AECOM University, technical practice networks, and structured career progression pathways.
• Flexible Hybrid Working Model: Support for work-life balance with options to blend office-based and remote work.
• Pension Scheme: Comprehensive employer-contributed pension plan.
• Health and Well-being Programs: Access to wellness initiatives and support services.
• Volunteering Days: Paid time off for volunteering activities.
• Professional Development Support: Encouragement and support for maintaining professional qualifications and attending industry events.
• Life Assurance: Coverage for dependents.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are typically 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday.
• AECOM's hybrid working model offers flexibility in how these hours are structured, balancing core business needs with employee preferences.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on general UK market data for similar roles in engineering consultancies. Benefits are directly drawn from the provided job description, highlighting AECOM's commitment to employee growth and well-being, which are key attractors for operations professionals seeking stable and supportive employment.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Infrastructure Consulting (Water Sector)

• AECOM operates within the global infrastructure consulting sector, with a significant focus on water and wastewater solutions. The company partners with major water utilities and contractors, positioning itself as a key player in delivering essential services and upgrades. This context means the operations team is integral to public service delivery and environmental sustainability.

Company Size: Large (Global, Fortune 500)

• AECOM is a large, publicly traded company with over 50,000 employees worldwide. This size offers stability, extensive resources, diverse project opportunities, and established career paths. For operations professionals, it means working within structured processes and potentially collaborating with global teams.

Founded: 1910 (as Architectural Engineering Company)

• With over a century of history, AECOM has a long-standing reputation and deep expertise in delivering complex infrastructure projects. This longevity suggests a stable, experienced organization with a strong foundation in engineering excellence and a forward-looking approach to innovation and sustainability.

Team Structure:

• Water Solutions Team: The role is part of a substantial Water business unit in the UK & Ireland, comprising approximately 700 experts.
• Specialization: The team includes civil, mechanical, electrical, and process engineers, fostering a multi-disciplinary collaborative environment.
• Reporting: The Design Manager will likely report to a senior operational leader within the Water business, potentially a Director or Head of Design, and will manage a team of engineers and designers.
• Collaboration: Close interaction is expected with project managers, client representatives, other design disciplines, and construction teams.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: AECOM emphasizes leveraging data and technical expertise to solve complex challenges and deliver effective solutions.
• Project Lifecycle Management: A structured approach to managing projects from inception through planning, design, construction, and operation.
• Innovation and Sustainability: A commitment to developing creative, sustainable, and forward-thinking solutions for infrastructure challenges.
• Quality Assurance: Robust processes for ensuring the quality and compliance of designs and project deliverables.

Company Website: aecom.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Understanding AECOM's scale and history is key for operations candidates. The company's global presence and long-standing reputation imply robust operational frameworks and a commitment to professional development. The "Water Solutions" team's size suggests ample opportunities for collaboration and specialization within the operations delivery function.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior/Managerial

• This role represents a significant step into senior operational management within the infrastructure consulting sector. It requires a blend of deep technical expertise in water engineering and strong project/people management skills. The responsibilities extend beyond individual contribution to team leadership and strategic project oversight.

Reporting Structure:

• The Water Design Manager typically reports to a Director or Senior Manager within the Water business unit, likely responsible for overall business performance or a specific regional/sectoral segment.
• The role involves direct line management of a team of engineers and designers, influencing their technical development and project assignments.

Operations Impact:

• The Design Manager's role has a direct impact on AECOM's operational efficiency, project profitability, and client satisfaction. By ensuring timely and high-quality design delivery, they contribute to successful project outcomes, client retention, and the company's reputation.
• Their leadership influences the technical quality and sustainability of infrastructure projects, contributing to AECOM's mission of "delivering a better world."

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas of water/wastewater engineering or design management.
• Operational Leadership: Progress to roles such as Technical Director, Project Director, or Business Unit Manager, with broader strategic and commercial responsibilities.
• Client Relationship Management: Develop advanced client management skills, potentially leading key client accounts.
• Commercial Acumen: Gain experience in bid management, project financials, and business development for operations.
• Mentorship and Training: Take on formal roles in mentoring junior staff and contributing to internal training programs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth trajectory for a Water Design Manager at AECOM is clear: from leading technical delivery to managing larger project portfolios or business units. This role is a strong stepping stone for operations professionals looking to advance into senior leadership within the engineering and construction industry, emphasizing the development of both technical and managerial competencies.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid Work Environment

• AECOM offers a flexible hybrid working model, allowing employees to balance work between AECOM offices and remote locations. This model aims to support work-life balance and provide flexibility in how and where work is performed.

Office Location(s):

• Primary location is Croydon, England. An alternative mention of Leeds, UK, suggests potential flexibility or presence in multiple key operational hubs.
• These locations are typical for major engineering consultancies in the UK, providing access to clients and talent pools.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Spaces: AECOM offices are likely equipped with collaborative workspaces, meeting rooms, and modern amenities to facilitate team interaction and project discussions.
• Technology Integration: Expect access to robust IT infrastructure, design software, communication platforms, and digital tools essential for managing complex engineering projects.
• Team Interaction: The hybrid model means interaction will occur through a mix of in-person meetings, virtual collaboration tools, and project-specific discussions. The focus will be on efficient communication and knowledge sharing to ensure project continuity.

Work Schedule:

• The standard 40-hour work week is the baseline, with flexibility offered through the hybrid model. This allows for adaptable scheduling to accommodate project demands and personal needs, provided operational objectives and client commitments are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work environment is a significant factor for operations roles, influencing how teams collaborate and manage workflows. Candidates should be comfortable with a mix of in-office and remote work, leveraging digital tools to maintain team cohesion and project momentum. The mention of multiple potential locations (Croydon/Leeds) suggests a degree of flexibility in team placement.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and any initial application questions, likely conducted by HR or a recruiter to assess basic qualifications.
• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the hiring manager (Jay Hewitt) to delve deeper into your experience, technical skills, leadership approach, and cultural fit. Expect questions about your project management methodologies and team leadership style.
• Technical/Team Interview: You may meet with other senior engineers or potential team members to discuss specific technical challenges, design philosophies, and collaborative working styles. This stage often involves scenario-based questions.
• Portfolio Presentation (Potentially): Be prepared to present key projects from your portfolio, focusing on your role, challenges faced, solutions implemented, and the outcomes achieved. This is where you demonstrate your design management capabilities.
• Final Interview/Offer: A final discussion, potentially with a more senior leader, to confirm suitability and discuss terms of employment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Impact: Showcase projects where your leadership directly led to successful outcomes (e.g., on-time delivery, cost savings, improved client satisfaction, technical innovation).
• Quantify Achievements: Use metrics wherever possible to demonstrate the scale and impact of your work (e.g., project value, team size managed, efficiency gains).
• Highlight Leadership: Clearly articulate your role in leading multi-disciplinary teams, managing stakeholders, and driving technical decisions.
• Demonstrate Process: Explain your approach to design management, risk mitigation, and quality assurance.
• Tailor to Water: Emphasize your experience and understanding of the water and wastewater sector's unique challenges and requirements.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Prepare for questions asking how you would handle specific project management or team leadership situations (e.g., managing scope creep, resolving team conflicts, dealing with client dissatisfaction).
• Technical Problem-Solving: Be ready to discuss technical challenges you've overcome in water engineering projects.
• Presentation Skills: Practice articulating your experience concisely and effectively, especially if a portfolio presentation is required.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is likely structured to assess technical competence, leadership potential, and operational execution capabilities. A strong portfolio that demonstrates practical application of design management principles and team leadership in the water sector will be critical for success. Preparation should focus on articulating impact and demonstrating a systematic approach to project delivery.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency with industry-standard CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, Civil 3D) for reviewing and understanding engineering designs.
• Project Management Software: Experience with project management platforms (e.g., Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Asana, Monday.com) for planning, scheduling, and tracking project progress.
• Collaboration Platforms: Familiarity with tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for team communication and virtual collaboration.
• Document Management Systems: Experience with systems for storing, organizing, and versioning project documentation.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret project performance data and reports. Familiarity with Excel for data manipulation and analysis is essential.
• Reporting Dashboards: Experience using or interpreting data from project dashboards for performance monitoring.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct sales role, understanding CRM principles for client management and engagement is beneficial.
• Familiarity with workflow automation concepts within project delivery processes could be advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific tool requirements are not detailed, a Water Design Manager in a firm like AECOM will undoubtedly use a suite of project management, CAD, and collaboration tools. Proficiency in these operational tools is expected, enabling effective team coordination and project execution.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: A paramount commitment to health, safety, and well-being in all aspects of work and project delivery.
• Integrity: Upholding ethical standards and honesty in all dealings with clients, colleagues, and stakeholders.
• Excellence: Striving for high-quality technical delivery, innovative solutions, and exceptional client service.
• Collaboration: Fostering a team-oriented environment where diverse perspectives are valued and shared for collective success.
• Sustainability: Integrating environmental and social responsibility into design and project execution.
• Inclusivity: Promoting a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and respected.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The role requires close collaboration with various engineering disciplines (civil, mechanical, electrical, process), project managers, commercial teams, and client representatives.
• Open Communication: Encouraging transparent and open communication channels to facilitate problem-solving and knowledge sharing.
• Feedback Culture: A willingness to both provide and receive constructive feedback to drive continuous improvement in processes and project delivery.
• Proactive Engagement: Actively engaging with team members and stakeholders to anticipate needs and address potential issues early.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's stated values emphasize safety, integrity, excellence, collaboration, sustainability, and inclusivity. For operations professionals, embodying these values means a commitment to delivering projects safely and ethically, working effectively with diverse teams, and contributing to sustainable outcomes. This cultural alignment is crucial for long-term success within the organization.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Diverse Project Portfolios: Juggling multiple complex water and wastewater projects simultaneously, each with unique client requirements and technical complexities.
• Stakeholder Alignment: Ensuring all stakeholders (clients, internal teams, contractors, regulators) are aligned on project goals and technical solutions.
• Adapting to Evolving Regulations: Keeping abreast of and implementing new environmental regulations and industry best practices in water engineering.
• Team Resource Management: Optimizing the allocation and utilization of multi-disciplinary design teams, especially in a hybrid work environment.
• Driving Innovation: Encouraging and implementing innovative design approaches within a potentially traditional sector.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Access to specialized training in water treatment technologies, hydraulic modeling, or advanced design techniques.
• Project Management Certifications: Support for obtaining or maintaining certifications such as PMP or PRINCE2.
• Leadership Development Programs: Participation in AECOM's leadership training to enhance management and strategic thinking skills.
• Industry Conferences & Seminars: Opportunities to attend industry events to stay current with trends and network with peers.
• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Working on projects that involve diverse engineering disciplines, broadening overall understanding of infrastructure development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges inherent in this role are typical for senior operations management in infrastructure, focusing on complexity, stakeholder management, and continuous adaptation. The growth opportunities are substantial, allowing for specialization, leadership advancement, and continuous professional development within a globally recognized firm.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Project Leadership: "Describe a complex water infrastructure project you managed from concept to completion. What was your specific role, what challenges did you face, and how did you ensure successful technical delivery?" (Focus on demonstrating process, team management, and problem-solving.)
• Team Management: "How do you motivate and develop a multi-disciplinary engineering team, especially in a hybrid work setting? Provide examples of how you've fostered collaboration and professional growth." (Highlight your people management philosophy and practical application.)
• Client Engagement: "Tell me about a time you had to manage difficult client expectations or resolve a significant technical disagreement. What was your approach, and what was the outcome?" (Showcase your communication, negotiation, and client relationship skills.)
• Innovation/Sustainability: "How do you incorporate sustainable design principles or innovative solutions into your projects? Can you give an example?" (Demonstrate your forward-thinking approach.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• AECOM's Values: "How do your personal values align with AECOM's commitment to safety, sustainability, and inclusivity?" (Research AECOM's values and prepare examples.)
• Team Dynamics: "What is your preferred team collaboration style? How do you ensure effective communication across different disciplines and locations?" (Emphasize your collaborative approach.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio by project type or key responsibility (e.g., Project Leadership, Team Management, Client Solutions).
• STAR Method: For each project example, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to clearly articulate the context, your role, the actions taken, and the measurable results.
• Visuals: Use diagrams, charts, or simplified technical drawings where appropriate to illustrate project scope and solutions.
• Focus on Your Contribution: Clearly delineate your specific contributions versus those of the team or other stakeholders.
• Conciseness: Be prepared to present key projects within a set timeframe, focusing on the most impactful aspects.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on articulating your experience using concrete examples and the STAR method. Demonstrating a clear understanding of AECOM's values and a proactive approach to team collaboration and project delivery will be key. Be ready to showcase your ability to manage both technical complexities and client relationships effectively.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the AECOM careers portal via the provided link.
• Portfolio Customization: Review your professional portfolio and select 2-3 key projects that best showcase your water/wastewater design management experience, team leadership, and client engagement skills. Tailor your resume to highlight achievements relevant to the responsibilities outlined.
• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly details your experience with water and wastewater projects, multi-disciplinary team leadership, and project lifecycle management. Use keywords from the job description naturally throughout your resume.
• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method for behavioral questions. Prepare to discuss your approach to project management, team development, and client relations. If a portfolio presentation is expected, rehearse your key project summaries.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with AECOM’s recent projects, values, and strategic focus areas, particularly within the UK water sector. Understand their approach to sustainability and innovation.

⚠️ 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.