Lead Designer – Electrical, Instrumentation and Controls

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Lead Designer – Electrical, Instrumentation and Controls

Company: Aurecon

Location: Brisbane, Australia

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Engineering Operations / Technical Design

Date Posted: 2026-05-25

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and coordinate Electrical, Instrumentation, and Controls (EI&C) design for critical infrastructure projects within the energy and processing sectors.

• Drive the execution of design deliverables, ensuring adherence to scope, schedule, budget, and client-specific standards.

• Implement and champion digital engineering approaches, leveraging intelligent models and data-driven workflows to enhance design efficiency and accuracy.

• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to a geographically distributed team of designers and modellers.

• Foster strong stakeholder relationships, collaborating closely with clients across upstream gas facilities and aluminium refining operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a Lead Designer, indicating a senior technical contributor with responsibilities extending to team coordination and project oversight. The focus on "EI&C Design" and specific sectors like "upstream oil & gas" and "heavy industrial processing" suggests a strong emphasis on technical expertise within a niche engineering domain, rather than a traditional "operations" role focused on day-to-day business process management. The "Hybrid" work arrangement implies a blend of on-site collaboration and remote work, common in engineering consultancies.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the EI&C design execution for upstream gas facilities and aluminium refining infrastructure, encompassing both brownfield modifications and sustaining capital works.

• Take full ownership of EI&C design deliverables, ensuring they align with project scope, timelines, budgetary constraints, and client-specific technical standards.

• Deliver comprehensive designs for critical systems including High Voltage (HV) and Low Voltage (LV) power distribution, Motor Control Centres (MCCs), field instrumentation, and control system integration (PLC/SCADA/DCS).

• Effectively manage design execution across local teams and Global Design Centres, fostering efficient workshare and maintaining consistent delivery quality.

• Support long-term program delivery by strategically balancing multiple work fronts across operational assets, ensuring continuous project momentum.

• Develop detailed scope definitions, prepare cost estimates, and actively support the planning phases for ongoing and future project works.

• Champion and drive the adoption of digital engineering practices, utilizing intelligent models and data-driven workflows to significantly improve design efficiency and accuracy.

• Provide robust technical leadership, mentorship, and guidance to junior designers and modellers across geographically dispersed teams, fostering a culture of continuous learning and skill development.

• Conduct rigorous design reviews and verification processes to ensure strict compliance with hazardous area design requirements, relevant industry codes, and specific client specifications.

• Cultivate and build strong, enduring relationships with key client stakeholders within both the energy and processing sectors, ensuring alignment and satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical design leadership and project management within the EI&C domain. The emphasis on managing distributed teams, digital engineering, and client relationship management points towards a senior role requiring strong communication and organizational skills alongside deep technical proficiency.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Instrumentation Engineering, Control Engineering, or a related technical field. Equivalent practical experience will also be considered.

Experience: Minimum of 10+ years of progressive experience in Electrical, Instrumentation, and Controls (EI&C) design, with a significant portion focused on operating facilities, brownfield modifications, and sustaining capital programs.

Required Skills:

• Extensive EI&C design experience within upstream oil & gas (specifically coal seam gas) and/or heavy industrial processing environments (e.g., alumina refining, mining, petrochemical).

• Proven track record of delivering design for operating facilities, including brownfield upgrades and sustaining capital programs.

• High proficiency with leading design software and platforms: Autodesk Suite (AutoCAD, Plant 3D), Bentley Tools (MicroStation), and/or AVEVA tools, specifically in working with intelligent models and integrated design systems.

• Demonstrated experience working within 3D project environments, actively contributing to layout design, clash avoidance, and quantity tracking.

• Solid understanding of core EI&C systems, including:

  • Power distribution and reticulation (HV/LV)
  • Motor Control Centres (MCCs)
  • Field instrumentation and installation practices
  • Control systems architecture and integration (PLC/SCADA/DCS environments)

• Familiarity with hazardous area design requirements, particularly as they apply to upstream gas facilities.

• Proven ability to lead, mentor, and coordinate EI&C design teams across both local and global delivery environments.

• Strong stakeholder engagement and communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively with operators, engineers, and project managers.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with Digital Engineering workflows and tools for enhanced design efficiency.

• Familiarity with Front-End Engineering Design (FEED) and detailed design phases for complex projects.

• Knowledge of project management principles and software.

• Experience with hazardous area certification processes and documentation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills emphasize practical, hands-on design experience in specific industrial sectors, coupled with proficiency in industry-standard design software. The need for leadership and stakeholder management indicates a senior-level role. The mention of "hazardous area design" is critical for safety compliance in the target industries.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase examples of EI&C design projects for operating facilities, particularly brownfield modifications and sustaining capital works, demonstrating practical application of design principles.

• Include case studies that highlight the application of digital engineering tools and intelligent modeling in design execution, emphasizing efficiency gains and accuracy improvements.

• Present documentation samples that illustrate compliance with hazardous area requirements, industry codes, and client specifications across different project types.

• Demonstrate experience in managing design execution across distributed teams, including workshare coordination and quality assurance for global delivery centres.

Process Documentation:

• Documented workflows for EI&C design processes, from initial concept and scope definition through to detailed design, verification, and handover.

• Examples of process optimization initiatives implemented to improve design efficiency, accuracy, and constructability.

• Records of design review methodologies and verification procedures used to ensure compliance and quality.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Lead Designer role, a portfolio should demonstrate not just technical design capability but also leadership in process execution and problem-solving. The emphasis on digital engineering and distributed team management suggests a need for candidates who can articulate their process-driven approach to these complex aspects of project delivery.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Given the Lead Designer title, 10+ years of experience, and the location in Brisbane, Australia, a competitive salary range is estimated to be between AUD $140,000 - $190,000 per annum. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for senior engineering design roles in Australia, considering the specialized nature of EI&C expertise in the energy and heavy industrial sectors.

Benefits:

• Flexible Working Arrangements: Options to balance work and personal life through adaptable schedules.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for continuous learning, training, and skill enhancement through Aurecon's growth programs.

• Health and Wellness Programs: Support for employee well-being through various initiatives and resources.

• Retirement Savings Plan: Contribution towards long-term financial security.

• Performance-Based Bonuses: Potential for additional compensation based on individual and company performance.

• Travel Opportunities: Potential for project-related travel to client sites or other Aurecon offices.

Working Hours: Standard full-time hours are typically 40 hours per week. The role supports flexible working arrangements, allowing for some adaptation of daily schedules in coordination with project needs and team collaboration requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation for a Lead Designer role in Brisbane, Australia, based on industry data for comparable positions. Aurecon is known for offering comprehensive benefits packages typical of large engineering consultancies, including professional development and flexible work options.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering Consultancy, Infrastructure, Energy, Processing. Aurecon operates at the intersection of these sectors, providing design, engineering, and advisory services for complex projects that shape communities and drive sustainable development.

Company Size: Over 6,000 employees globally. This indicates a large, established organization with significant resources, a broad client base, and established processes, offering stability and diverse project opportunities.

Founded: Aurecon was formed in 2009 through the merger of Connell Wagner (Australia), Africon (Africa), and Merz (New Zealand), building on a legacy of engineering expertise. This history suggests a strong foundation in technical excellence and a commitment to long-term client relationships.

Team Structure:

• The EI&C Design team is part of a larger engineering division, likely comprising specialized disciplines.

• The Lead Designer will report to a Senior Engineering Manager or Principal Engineer, overseeing a team of EI&C designers and modellers.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Emphasis on using data and intelligent models for design optimization and decision-making.

• Collaborative Work Practices: Encouragement of diverse perspectives and teamwork to solve complex challenges.

• Digital Engineering Focus: Proactive adoption of advanced digital tools and workflows to enhance project delivery.

• Client-Centric Approach: Building strong relationships and delivering solutions tailored to client needs and operational realities.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Aurecon's positioning as a global engineering consultancy suggests a professional environment focused on technical excellence, innovation, and client service. The company's emphasis on sustainability and community impact is a key cultural differentiator. The team structure implies a hierarchical yet collaborative approach to project delivery.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior technical leadership position within the EI&C design discipline. It is a key contributor role that requires not only deep technical expertise but also the ability to lead and mentor others, manage project components, and influence design outcomes. It sits above a standard designer role and below a principal or director level, focusing on the successful execution of design within specific projects and programs.

Reporting Structure: The Lead Designer will typically report to a Discipline Manager, Principal Engineer, or Project Manager. They will be responsible for leading a team of EI&C Designers and Modellers, potentially across multiple projects or a specific program.

Operations Impact: The Lead Designer's impact is crucial for the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of critical infrastructure. Their designs directly influence the performance, maintainability, and longevity of upstream gas facilities and aluminium refineries. By ensuring technical accuracy and compliance, they mitigate operational risks and contribute to project success, client satisfaction, and Aurecon's reputation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Advancement to Principal Designer or Technical Director roles, taking on greater technical responsibility and strategic influence.

• Transition into Project Management roles, leveraging design and leadership experience to manage broader project scopes.

• Specialization in emerging areas like digital engineering, automation, or specific niche technologies within EI&C.

• Opportunities to mentor and develop future talent within the EI&C discipline.

• Potential to lead larger, more complex, or international projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for a Lead Designer in a firm like Aurecon typically involves deepening technical expertise, expanding leadership capabilities, and potentially moving into project management or higher-level technical authority roles. The emphasis on digital engineering and client-facing responsibilities provides diverse avenues for growth.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Aurecon likely operates with a hybrid model, offering a blend of office-based work and remote flexibility. The Brisbane office will serve as a hub for collaboration, client meetings, and in-person team interactions.

Office Location(s): The role is based in Brisbane, Australia, a major commercial center with access to key industries and clients in the energy and resources sector. Specific office details would be available upon inquiry or during the interview process.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Spaces: The office environment will likely feature open-plan areas, meeting rooms, and dedicated project spaces designed to foster teamwork and knowledge sharing among designers, engineers, and project teams.

• Technology Infrastructure: Access to high-performance computing, advanced design software, and robust network connectivity necessary for digital engineering workflows and large-scale project data.

• Cross-Functional Interaction: Frequent opportunities to interact with engineers from other disciplines, project managers, and client representatives, promoting a holistic project understanding.

Work Schedule: While a standard 40-hour work week is expected, the role's hybrid nature and Aurecon's commitment to flexible working arrangements allow for some degree of schedule autonomy, balanced with the need for team synchronization and project deadlines. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for tasks requiring focused individual work or time zone coordination with global teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work environment is typical for engineering consultancies, balancing the need for in-person collaboration with the benefits of remote work flexibility. The Brisbane office location is strategic for servicing key Australian industries.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and application to assess alignment with the core requirements, focusing on EI&C design experience and leadership potential.

• Technical Interview: In-depth discussion with a hiring manager or senior technical lead to evaluate your EI&C design expertise, understanding of relevant systems, and experience with design software and hazardous area compliance.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where you will present and discuss selected projects from your portfolio, highlighting your design process, problem-solving approaches, and leadership contributions. Be prepared to articulate the challenges, solutions, and outcomes of your work.

• Behavioral and Situational Interview: Assessment of your leadership style, team coordination abilities, stakeholder management skills, and how you handle pressure and competing priorities.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate your portfolio to showcase 2-3 key EI&C design projects that best represent your experience in upstream gas, heavy industry, brownfield modifications, and sustaining capital works.

• For each project, clearly articulate the client challenge, your specific role and responsibilities, the design methodology employed (especially digital engineering aspects), key technical solutions, and measurable outcomes (e.g., efficiency gains, risk reduction, cost savings).

• Be ready to discuss your leadership approach in coordinating local and global design teams, including how you ensure quality and consistency.

• Prepare to demonstrate your understanding of hazardous area requirements and how you ensured compliance in your designs.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for technical questions related to EI&C system design, troubleshooting common operational issues, and applying hazardous area codes.

• Practice articulating your approach to leading teams, managing conflicting priorities, and engaging with diverse stakeholders.

• Consider how you would approach a hypothetical scenario involving a complex brownfield modification or the integration of new control systems into an existing facility.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a Lead Designer role will heavily emphasize technical depth, leadership capabilities, and the ability to articulate past successes through a well-curated portfolio. Practical examples of process optimization and team management are crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Autodesk Suite: AutoCAD, Plant 3D for 2D drafting, 3D modeling, and intelligent plant design. Emphasis on utilizing these tools for layout, piping, and equipment design.

• Bentley Tools: MicroStation for 2D/3D design and modeling, often used in infrastructure and process plant projects. Experience with its integration into broader project workflows.

• AVEVA Tools: A comprehensive suite of engineering software for design, simulation, and data management, often used in complex industrial and energy projects. Proficiency in AVEVA E3D or similar modules is highly valued.

• 3D Project Environments: Experience with integrated 3D modeling platforms that support clash detection, visualization, and data extraction for downstream processes.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Extraction Tools: Ability to extract data from intelligent models (e.g., for Bill of Materials, cable schedules, instrument lists).

• Reporting Software: Use of standard office suites (e.g., Microsoft Excel) for data analysis, report generation, and creating technical documentation.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design data integrates with project management and ERP systems is beneficial.

• Digital Engineering Platforms: Familiarity with platforms or workflows that support model-based systems engineering, data associativity, and integrated project delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in industry-standard CAD and 3D modeling software is paramount. The mention of "intelligent models" and "integrated design systems" points towards a need for candidates who can leverage these tools for more than just drafting, but for data management and process efficiency.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: A paramount commitment to ensuring designs meet the highest safety standards, particularly in hazardous environments, reflecting Aurecon's dedication to responsible engineering.

• Client Focus: Prioritizing client needs and building strong, enduring relationships through reliable delivery and proactive engagement, ensuring project success and repeat business.

• Innovation & Excellence: Driving continuous improvement through the adoption of digital engineering and best practices to deliver cutting-edge solutions and maintain technical leadership.

• Collaboration & Inclusion: Fostering a diverse and inclusive team environment where different perspectives are valued, and collective problem-solving leads to optimal outcomes.

• Sustainability: Integrating sustainable design principles and practices to contribute to a better future for communities and the planet.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Active collaboration with mechanical, civil, structural, and other engineering disciplines, as well as project managers and client operational teams, to ensure holistic project solutions.

• Open Communication: Encouraging transparent dialogue and proactive information sharing within the design team and with stakeholders to resolve issues efficiently and maintain alignment.

• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting a culture where best practices, lessons learned, and technical insights are shared across teams and geographies to elevate overall competency.

• Mentorship and Development: A supportive approach to mentoring junior staff, fostering their technical growth and career development within the EI&C discipline.

📝 Enhancement Note: Aurecon's values emphasize technical rigor, client partnership, and a forward-thinking approach to engineering. The collaboration style is expected to be professional, team-oriented, and focused on achieving project goals through shared expertise.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Complex Brownfield Projects: Navigating the intricacies of modifying operational assets, which often involves dealing with existing constraints, limited access, and the need to minimize disruption to ongoing operations.

• Coordinating Distributed Teams: Effectively managing design quality, communication, and timelines across local teams and potentially Global Design Centres, requiring strong leadership and cross-cultural awareness.

• Adopting and Implementing Digital Engineering: Championing the adoption of new digital tools and workflows, which may require overcoming resistance to change and ensuring all team members are adequately trained and proficient.

• Balancing Multiple Project Demands: Juggling concurrent responsibilities and priorities across a portfolio of projects, requiring excellent time management and organizational skills to meet diverse client deadlines.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Digital Design Skills: Opportunities to deepen expertise in intelligent modeling, data management, and advanced visualization tools.

• Technical Specialization: Potential to become a subject matter expert in specific areas such as hazardous area design, specific control system platforms, or advanced power system design.

• Leadership and Project Management Training: Formal training and on-the-job experience in leading teams, managing project components, and developing strategic client relationships.

• Industry Engagement: Participation in industry conferences, workshops, and professional development programs to stay abreast of the latest technologies and best practices in EI&C design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for senior design roles in complex engineering environments, emphasizing problem-solving, leadership, and adaptability. The growth opportunities are structured to enhance both technical mastery and leadership potential within Aurecon.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex EI&C design challenge you faced on a brownfield project, detailing your approach to problem-solving, the solution you implemented, and the outcome." (Focus on process, technical rigor, and impact.)

• "How do you ensure design quality and consistency when coordinating a team of designers across different locations or Global Design Centres?" (Focus on leadership, communication, and quality assurance processes.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Aurecon, and how do your values align with our company's purpose of 'engineering possibilities'?" (Research Aurecon's mission, values, and recent projects.)

• "How do you approach building and maintaining strong relationships with clients, especially those in demanding operational environments?" (Focus on communication, understanding client needs, and proactive engagement.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: For each project, use a clear narrative: Client Need/Problem -> Your Role/Responsibilities -> Design Process & Tools Used -> Key Technical Solutions/Innovations -> Outcome/Impact (quantify where possible).

• Highlight EI&C Specifics: Emphasize your technical expertise in power distribution, instrumentation, and control systems, and how you applied this to solve real-world operational challenges.

• Showcase Leadership: Detail your experience in leading design teams, coordinating workshare, and mentoring junior staff.

• Digital Engineering Emphasis: Clearly articulate how you used intelligent models or digital workflows to enhance design outcomes.

• Conciseness: Be prepared to present your key projects efficiently, focusing on the most relevant aspects for the Lead Designer role.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of deep technical EI&C expertise, proven leadership in design execution, and strong communication skills. The portfolio presentation is a critical component where candidates can showcase their practical experience and problem-solving capabilities.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Lead Designer – Electrical, Instrumentation and Controls position:

• Submit your application through the Aurecon careers portal using the provided link.

• Tailor your resume: Highlight your extensive EI&C design experience, leadership roles, proficiency with Autodesk, Bentley, or AVEVA tools, and specific experience in upstream oil & gas or heavy industrial processing. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Prepare your portfolio: Select 2-3 key EI&C design projects that best demonstrate your capabilities in brownfield modifications, sustaining capital works, digital engineering, and team coordination. Be ready to present these in detail.

• Research Aurecon: Understand their projects, values, and commitment to sustainability and digital engineering. Prepare to articulate why you are a good cultural fit and how you can contribute to their "engineering possibilities" ethos.

• Practice your responses: Rehearse answers to common technical, behavioral, and situational interview questions, focusing on providing specific examples from your experience.

⚠️ 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.