MEP Design Manager. Building Engineering

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: MEP Design Manager - Building Engineering

Company: AECOM

Location: Madrid, Spain

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Building Engineering Operations / Project Management

Date Posted: May 20, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage multidisciplinary MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) design teams to ensure the delivery of high-quality building and infrastructure projects, focusing on technical excellence and client satisfaction.

• Serve as the primary technical liaison between clients and AECOM, fostering strong relationships and ensuring effective communication throughout the project lifecycle, from conceptualization to completion.

• Oversee the planning, scheduling, and execution of project activities, coordinating with planning engineers and other discipline leads to achieve project goals within established timelines and budgets.

• Drive the development and review of engineering solutions, ensuring they meet both client requirements and AECOM's stringent standards for quality and efficiency in building engineering.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within AECOM's Building & Places (B&P) business line, part of the larger Design, Consulting and Projects (DCP) segment, implying a strong focus on project delivery, client advisory, and integrated design solutions within the built environment. The emphasis on "inspirational" leadership suggests a need for strong interpersonal and team-building skills beyond pure technical management.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor multidisciplinary MEP design teams, fostering a collaborative environment focused on delivering exceptional building and infrastructure project outcomes.

• Ensure the technical excellence and quality of all MEP engineering solutions developed by the team, from conceptual installation designs through to final construction documentation.

• Act as the principal technical point of contact for clients, actively managing expectations, communicating progress, and building robust, long-term professional relationships.

• Effectively manage project timelines and budgets, working closely with Project Managers and Planning Engineers to identify critical path activities and potential risks.

• Proactively identify project scope changes, providing detailed technical justifications to support change order processes and ensure project profitability and client alignment.

• Cultivate and maintain strong interdisciplinary working relationships with Architecture, Structural Engineering, and other relevant teams to ensure holistic project integration.

• Champion continuous professional development within the MEP team, encouraging the enhancement of technical expertise and the adoption of best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical leadership, project management, and client-facing duties. The expectation to "deliver, review and approve engineering solutions" indicates a significant level of technical authority and accountability. The mention of "construction environments will be considered a plus" suggests that practical, on-site experience is highly valued, even for a design management role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or a related Engineering discipline.

Experience:

• Demonstrated track record in developing conceptual installation designs through to project completion, with a strong emphasis on MEP discipline coordination and direct client interaction.

• Substantial experience in Building Services design, encompassing all phases of the design lifecycle.

• Proven success collaborating with diverse design teams on both national and international projects.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in leading and managing multidisciplinary engineering teams.

• Expertise in Mechanical, Electrical, or Plumbing (MEP) systems design and integration within building projects.

• Strong capabilities in client relationship management and stakeholder communication.

• Thorough understanding of project lifecycle management, including planning, scheduling, and budget control.

• Excellent technical knowledge in core electrical or mechanical engineering principles.

• A solid grasp of the interdependencies and requirements of other engineering disciplines (e.g., Architecture, Structural).

Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with construction site environments and project execution phases.

• Experience with specific building services design software and simulation tools.

• Knowledge of sustainable design principles and building performance analysis.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on bilingual fluency (English and Spanish) is a critical requirement for this role, reflecting the project's location in Madrid and AECOM's international operations. The "5-10 Years" experience level suggests a mid to senior-level role requiring a solid foundation of technical expertise and management capabilities.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate ownership of successful MEP design projects, showcasing the full project lifecycle from initial concept to final handover.

• Provide evidence of effective multidisciplinary coordination, highlighting how integration with architectural and structural designs was achieved.

• Include case studies detailing client interaction, demonstrating your ability to manage expectations, present technical solutions, and foster strong relationships.

• Showcase examples of project planning and scheduling, illustrating your approach to managing timelines and coordinating with planning engineers.

Process Documentation:

• Prepare to discuss your methodologies for developing conceptual installation designs and ensuring their progression through to completion.

• Be ready to articulate your approach to reviewing and approving engineering solutions, ensuring they meet technical standards and project objectives.

• Outline your strategies for maintaining strong working relationships with other disciplines and fostering effective cross-functional collaboration.

• Be prepared to share examples of how you have enhanced technical expertise within a team and individually.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the role's focus on design management and client liaison, a portfolio should emphasize not just technical drawings but also project management documentation, client communication examples, and evidence of team leadership. The "Building Services Design" experience implies a need to showcase projects that span HVAC, electrical distribution, lighting, and plumbing systems.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

The estimated salary range for an MEP Design Manager in Madrid, Spain, with 5-10 years of experience, typically falls between €55,000 and €75,000 annually. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for engineering management roles in major European cities, considering the cost of living in Madrid and AECOM's standing as a global infrastructure consulting firm.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Includes Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans.

• Life and Disability Protection: AD&D (Accidental Death & Dismemberment) and Disability Benefits are provided.

• Work-Life Balance Support: Generous Paid Time Off, Leaves of Absences, and Flexible Work Options, including a hybrid model (2-3 days/week in office).

• Financial Wellness: Retirement Savings Plan and Employee Stock Purchase Plan.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for growth, training programs, and Service Recognition Awards.

• Additional Perks: Voluntary Benefits, employee perks, Well-being Resources, Employee Assistance Program, and Business Travel Insurance.

Working Hours: Standard full-time hours, with the flexibility of "flexible working hours" noted, suggesting some adaptability around core business hours, likely around 40 hours per week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on general market data for similar roles in Spain. Specific compensation will depend on the candidate's experience, qualifications, and the final negotiation. The benefits package is extensive, reflecting AECOM's commitment to employee well-being and retention.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: AECOM operates within the global infrastructure consulting and engineering services sector, focusing on sectors such as transportation, buildings, water, power, and environment. As a Fortune 500 firm, it engages in large-scale, complex projects worldwide.

Company Size: AECOM is a global enterprise with over 50,000 employees, indicating a large, established organization with extensive resources and a wide reach. This scale offers opportunities for international collaboration and career mobility.

Founded: AECOM has a long history, with its roots tracing back to 1910. This longevity signifies stability, deep industry expertise, and a proven track record of delivering significant projects.

Team Structure:

• The MEP Design Manager will be part of the Buildings & Places (B&P) business line, likely within a regional or national division (e.g., AECOM SPAIN DCS S.L.U.).

• The role involves leading a multidisciplinary MEP team and coordinating with other disciplines (Architecture, Structural Engineering) and general Project/Design Managers.

Methodology:

• AECOM emphasizes a data-driven approach to problem-solving and decision-making, leveraging deep technical capabilities and digital innovation.

• Workflow planning and optimization are critical, especially for a design management role that bridges client needs with engineering execution.

• Automation and efficiency practices are increasingly important in the infrastructure sector, suggesting a focus on leveraging technology to improve project delivery.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's global presence and diverse project portfolio mean that operations professionals can expect to work on a wide range of challenging and impactful projects. The company's emphasis on "delivering a better world" and "building legacies" suggests a culture that values long-term impact and sustainability.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is a mid-to-senior level position within Building Engineering and Project Management. It requires significant experience in MEP design and coordination, coupled with leadership and client-facing capabilities. The "Manager" title indicates responsibility for leading teams, managing project streams, and contributing to business development through client relationships.

Reporting Structure: The MEP Design Manager will likely report to a higher-level Project Director, Design Director, or Operations Manager within the Buildings & Places division. They will, in turn, manage a team of MEP engineers and coordinate closely with other discipline leads.

Operations Impact: The MEP Design Manager plays a crucial role in ensuring the technical integrity, efficiency, and successful delivery of building projects. Their impact directly influences project profitability, client satisfaction, AECOM's reputation for technical excellence, and the long-term functionality and sustainability of the built assets.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Progression to Senior MEP Design Manager, Design Director, or Project Director roles, with increased responsibility for larger, more complex projects and broader team oversight.

• Specialization Development: Deepening expertise in specific MEP areas (e.g., sustainable design, smart building technology, high-voltage systems) or expanding into related fields like project management or construction management.

• International Mobility: Leveraging AECOM's global network for opportunities on international projects, broadening experience and exposure to diverse markets and challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's commitment to "championing your growth and career ambitions" suggests structured development programs. The role offers a clear path to leadership within the building engineering domain, with opportunities to influence project strategy and client engagement.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: AECOM operates a hybrid work model, requiring 2-3 days per week in the office. This suggests a professional office environment designed for collaboration, client meetings, and focused work, complemented by remote flexibility.

Office Location(s): The primary location is Madrid, Spain, specifically at C/Alfonso XII. This implies a central, accessible office within the city, likely equipped with the necessary infrastructure for engineering design and project collaboration.

Workspace Context:

• The office environment is described as "very positive and collaborative," emphasizing teamwork and mutual support, which is ideal for multidisciplinary project coordination.

• Access to AECOM's global network of experts and cutting-edge technology will be available, supporting efficient design processes and problem-solving.

• Opportunities for interaction with diverse teams, including architects, structural engineers, project managers, and potentially clients, will be frequent.

Work Schedule: Flexible working hours are offered to support work-life balance, alongside a standard hybrid model. This allows for adaptability in managing project deadlines and personal commitments, crucial for operations roles that often have dynamic demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model balances the need for in-person collaboration and client engagement with the flexibility modern professionals expect. The emphasis on a positive, collaborative culture suggests an environment where team members feel supported and empowered.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely involves a review of your CV and a brief call with HR or a recruiter to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit. Be prepared to articulate your key achievements in MEP design management and client interaction.

• Technical Interview: Expect in-depth discussions about your technical expertise in MEP systems, building services design, and multidisciplinary coordination. You may be asked to walk through specific projects from your portfolio.

• Management & Leadership Interview: Focus on your experience leading teams, managing projects, handling client relationships, and resolving conflicts. Behavioral questions (e.g., STAR method) are common.

• Case Study/Presentation: You may be asked to present a specific project from your portfolio or tackle a hypothetical design challenge. This assesses your problem-solving skills, technical depth, and presentation abilities.

• Final Interview: Typically with a senior leader (e.g., Director) to confirm fit with AECOM's culture and strategic objectives.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-5 of your most impactful projects that best demonstrate your MEP design management, coordination, and client-facing skills.

• Highlight Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the challenge, your role, the solutions implemented, and the quantifiable results (e.g., cost savings, efficiency improvements, client satisfaction).

• Show Coordination: Include examples that explicitly show how you managed MEP integration with other disciplines (architecture, structure) and resolved interdisciplinary conflicts.

• Client Focus: Detail your approach to client communication, expectation management, and relationship building. If possible, include client feedback or testimonials.

• Process Clarity: Be ready to explain your design processes, project planning methodologies, and risk management strategies.

Challenge Preparation:

• Technical Acumen: Refresh your knowledge of core MEP principles, building codes, and industry best practices.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Prepare for hypothetical scenarios involving design conflicts, client demands, or project delays. Focus on structured, logical solutions.

• Presentation Skills: Practice delivering clear, concise, and engaging presentations. Ensure you can articulate complex technical information to both technical and non-technical audiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the international context and the role's seniority, expect a multi-stage interview process that thoroughly evaluates technical, managerial, and interpersonal competencies. A strong, well-prepared portfolio is essential for demonstrating practical experience and impact.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• MEP Design Software: Proficiency with industry-standard CAD and BIM software is essential. This includes:

  • Autodesk Revit MEP (for BIM modeling and coordination)
  • AutoCAD MEP (for 2D drafting and design)
  • Potentially Navisworks for clash detection and 3D model coordination.

• MEP Calculation Software: Familiarity with software for load calculations, energy modeling, lighting design, and hydraulic calculations (e.g., HAP, eQUEST, Dialux, Pipe-Flo).

• Project Management Software: Experience with tools like Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or similar for project scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Microsoft Excel: Advanced proficiency for data analysis, financial tracking, and reporting.

• BI Tools (e.g., Power BI, Tableau): Familiarity is beneficial for creating dashboards and visualizing project performance data.

• Internal AECOM Reporting Systems: Expect to use proprietary AECOM tools for project reporting and financial tracking.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Software (e.g., Salesforce): Experience with CRM systems is valuable for managing client relationships and tracking business development activities.

• Workflow Automation Tools: Awareness of how automation can streamline design processes or project management tasks.

• Collaboration Platforms: Proficiency with Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, or similar for team collaboration, document sharing, and communication.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong foundation in BIM (Building Information Modeling) and related coordination tools is critical for modern building engineering projects. The ability to leverage data for project management and client reporting is also increasingly important.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity: Upholding ethical standards in all dealings with clients, colleagues, and projects.

• Collaboration: Fostering a team-oriented environment where open communication and mutual support are paramount for success.

• Innovation: Encouraging creative solutions and the adoption of new technologies to enhance design and project delivery.

• Excellence: A commitment to delivering high-quality, technically sound, and efficient engineering solutions that exceed client expectations.

• Safety: Prioritizing the health and safety of employees, clients, and the public in all project-related activities.

Collaboration Style:

• AECOM promotes a highly collaborative culture, emphasizing cross-functional teamwork between disciplines and business lines.

• The company values open communication, constructive feedback, and knowledge sharing to drive continuous improvement.

• Expect a dynamic environment where diverse perspectives are welcomed, contributing to robust problem-solving and innovative project outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's emphasis on "delivering a better world" and "building legacies" suggests a culture that values long-term impact, sustainability, and professional integrity. The "positive and collaborative working environment" noted in the job description indicates a supportive team dynamic.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Multidisciplinary Coordination: Effectively managing and integrating complex MEP designs with architectural, structural, and other disciplines, resolving conflicts efficiently.

• Client Expectation Management: Balancing client demands with technical feasibility, budget constraints, and project timelines, ensuring clear communication and satisfaction.

• Technical Evolution: Keeping pace with rapidly evolving MEP technologies, sustainable design practices, and digital tools (e.g., advanced BIM, AI in design).

• Global Project Dynamics: Navigating the complexities of international projects, including diverse regulations, cultural nuances, and extended stakeholder groups.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Leadership Training: Access to AECOM's extensive leadership development programs to hone management and strategic planning skills.

• Technical Skill Enhancement: Opportunities to attend industry conferences, workshops, and specialized training to deepen expertise in specific MEP areas or emerging technologies.

• Mentorship Programs: Benefit from mentorship from senior leaders within AECOM's global network, gaining insights into career progression and strategic decision-making.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents an opportunity to tackle complex engineering challenges on significant projects, fostering significant professional growth in technical leadership and project management within the built environment sector.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex MEP design project you managed from concept to completion. What were the key challenges, and how did you ensure technical excellence and client satisfaction?" (Focus on your process, coordination, and client engagement.)

• "How do you approach managing and motivating a multidisciplinary engineering team, especially when facing tight deadlines or design conflicts?" (Highlight leadership style, communication strategies, and problem-solving.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about AECOM's work in building engineering, and why are you interested in this MEP Design Manager role specifically?" (Research AECOM's recent projects and values.)

• "How do you align with AECOM's stated values of integrity, collaboration, and excellence?" (Provide specific examples from your experience.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: For each project, use a clear narrative: Project Overview -> Your Role & Responsibilities -> Key Challenges -> Solutions & Strategies (especially coordination) -> Outcomes & Impact -> Lessons Learned.

• Visuals: Use high-quality visuals (renderings, BIM models, key drawings, charts) to illustrate your points. Ensure they are professional and easy to understand.

• Quantify Impact: Wherever possible, use numbers and data to demonstrate the success of your projects (e.g., energy savings, budget adherence, schedule adherence).

• Engagement: Be prepared for questions throughout your presentation. Treat it as a collaborative discussion rather than a monologue.

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare to demonstrate not only your technical proficiency but also your strategic thinking, leadership potential, and ability to thrive in AECOM's collaborative global environment.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this MEP Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the AECOM careers portal via the provided SmartRecruiters link.

• Customize Your CV: Tailor your resume to highlight specific experience in MEP design management, building services, multidisciplinary coordination, and client interaction, using keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a selection of your most relevant projects, focusing on demonstrating technical leadership, project coordination, and client engagement. Be ready to present key case studies.

• Research AECOM: Familiarize yourself with AECOM's recent projects, values, and the Buildings & Places business line. Understand their approach to sustainability and innovation.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare answers to common behavioral and technical questions, focusing on using the STAR method and incorporating specific examples from your experience. Practice presenting your portfolio.

⚠️ 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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