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 / Design Management

Date Posted: 2026-04-29

Experience Level: 5-10 Years (Mid-Senior Level)

Remote Status: Hybrid (2-3 days/week in office)

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage multidisciplinary MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, Fire Protection, Public Health, Telecom) design teams to deliver high-quality building and infrastructure projects.

• Drive technical excellence and innovation in MEP engineering solutions, leveraging advanced methodologies like BIM, energy modeling, and CFD.

• Serve as the primary technical liaison between AECOM and international clients, fostering strong relationships and ensuring client satisfaction.

• Oversee project delivery from conceptual design through to completion, ensuring adherence to timelines, budgets, and quality standards.

• Coordinate effectively with other design disciplines (Architecture, Structural Engineering) and internal project management teams to achieve integrated project outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is situated within AECOM's Building Engineering team in Spain, focusing on international clients. The position requires a blend of strong technical MEP expertise, robust project and design management capabilities, and excellent client-facing skills. The emphasis on BIM, energy modeling, and CFD indicates a forward-thinking approach to design and a need for candidates proficient in modern design technologies.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and support multidisciplinary MEP engineering teams throughout the project lifecycle, from conceptualization to final delivery.

• Ensure the technical integrity, quality, and compliance of all MEP design solutions, including mechanical, electrical, public health, fire protection, and telecom systems.

• Act as the key point of contact for clients, managing expectations, facilitating communication, and building enduring professional relationships.

• Proactively manage project schedules and resources in collaboration with Planning Engineers and Project Managers to ensure on-time and within-budget project completion.

• Identify, assess, and manage project changes, providing robust technical justifications to Project Managers.

• Foster seamless collaboration and coordination with architectural, structural, and other relevant engineering disciplines to ensure cohesive project design.

• Drive continuous improvement in team technical capabilities and individual professional development within the MEP engineering domain.

• Review and approve engineering deliverables, ensuring they meet AECOM's stringent quality standards and client requirements.

• Contribute to the development and application of world-class methodologies and technologies, including BIM, energy modeling, and CFD.

• Support the business development efforts through technical input in proposals and client presentations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a significant leadership component, requiring the candidate to not only manage technical aspects but also team dynamics, client interactions, and project controls. The mention of "direct client interaction" and "trusted technical partner" emphasizes the importance of communication and client management skills in addition to technical proficiency.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• Proven track record in developing conceptual installation designs through to project completion, with a strong emphasis on MEP discipline coordination.

• Demonstrated experience in direct client interaction and relationship management within a consultancy or engineering firm.

• Substantial experience in Building Services design across various project types.

• Successful history of collaborating with diverse design teams on national and international projects.

Required Skills:

• Advanced technical knowledge in either mechanical or electrical engineering principles and applications.

• Comprehensive understanding of MEP systems, including mechanical, electrical, public health, fire protection, and telecom.

• Proficiency in managing and coordinating multidisciplinary engineering teams.

• Strong client relationship management and communication skills.

• Ability to ensure technical excellence and deliver high-quality engineering solutions.

• Experience in project planning, scheduling, and budget management.

• Solid understanding of the interdependencies with other design disciplines like Architecture and Structural Engineering.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with Information Rich Building Information Modelling (BIM) workflows and standards.

• Familiarity with energy modeling software and techniques.

• Experience with Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis.

• Previous experience in construction environments.

• Knowledge of international building codes and standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize a blend of technical depth in MEP, project leadership, and client-facing abilities. The bilingual requirement (English and Spanish) is critical for interacting with international clients and project teams. Experience with advanced design tools like BIM, energy modeling, and CFD is highly valued, indicating a modern approach to building engineering.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrations of successful MEP design project leadership, showcasing conceptualization through to completion.

• Case studies highlighting effective MEP discipline coordination and integration with other design disciplines.

• Examples of client engagement, problem-solving, and relationship management in project contexts.

• Evidence of managing project timelines, budgets, and technical quality across complex building projects.

Process Documentation:

• Showcase of structured design processes, including workflow planning and optimization for MEP systems.

• Examples of how project changes were identified, managed, and communicated effectively.

• Documentation illustrating collaboration protocols with architectural and structural teams.

• Evidence of implementing quality assurance and control measures in MEP design delivery.

• Records of continuous technical skill enhancement and team development initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates are expected to present tangible evidence of their project leadership and technical design capabilities. The portfolio should not only highlight successful project outcomes but also the methodologies and processes employed, particularly those involving advanced design tools and multidisciplinary coordination.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Life insurance and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) coverage.

• Disability benefits (short-term and long-term).

• Generous paid time off (PTO) and leave of absence policies.

• Flexible working hours to promote work-life balance.

• Hybrid working model (2-3 days/week in office).

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for personal and professional support.

• Retirement savings plan (e.g., pension scheme).

• Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP).

• Service recognition awards.

• Business travel insurance.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time position, typically around 40 hours per week.

• Flexible working hours are offered to support work-life balance, allowing for adjustments to start and end times within operational requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on available market data for similar roles in Madrid and AECOM's typical compensation structure for experienced professionals. The benefits listed are comprehensive and align with those commonly offered by large, multinational engineering firms. The hybrid work model and flexible hours are key components of the work environment.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Infrastructure Consulting & Engineering Services. AECOM operates globally, delivering a "better world" through iconic projects in transportation, water, environment, energy, and buildings. This industry context means a focus on large-scale, complex, and often long-term projects requiring deep technical expertise and robust project management.

Company Size: Global company with over 50,000 employees worldwide. This scale provides access to a vast network of expertise, resources, and international project opportunities, while also necessitating clear internal processes and communication structures.

Founded: AECOM's history traces back to the mid-20th century, evolving through mergers and acquisitions into the global leader it is today. This long-standing presence suggests stability, a wealth of experience, and a well-established corporate culture.

Team Structure:

• The Building Engineering team in Spain is part of AECOM's DCS (Design Consulting Services) business group and the Buildings & Places (B&P) business line.

• This role is within the Building Engineering team, which focuses on MEP systems and works closely with general Project Management/Design Management teams.

• The MEP Design Manager will lead a multidisciplinary MEP team and collaborate with other discipline leads and general PM/DM team members.

Methodology:

• Embraces world-class methodologies and technologies, including information-rich Building Information Modelling (BIM), energy modelling, and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD).

• Focuses on delivering efficient, sustainable, and integrated engineering solutions.

• Employs a collaborative approach, working closely with clients and internal multidisciplinary teams.

• Prioritizes technical excellence and innovation throughout the project lifecycle.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's culture is characterized by a commitment to impactful projects, global collaboration, and technical innovation. The "Work with Us. Change the World." slogan underscores a mission-driven approach. The company's size and history imply a structured environment with ample opportunities for professional development and career progression, particularly within specialized engineering fields like MEP.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Mid-Senior Level Design Management role. The "Manager" title signifies responsibility for leading teams, managing projects, and acting as a technical authority. It bridges the gap between individual technical contribution and strategic project oversight, requiring strong leadership, client management, and technical integration skills.

Reporting Structure: The MEP Design Manager will report to a more senior management figure within AECOM Spain's Building Engineering or Design Consulting Services division. They will also coordinate closely with Project Managers/Design Managers and lead a team of MEP engineers. Direct reporting and accountability to clients for project design delivery will be a key aspect.

Operations Impact: The role directly impacts the success of building and infrastructure projects by ensuring the technical quality, efficiency, and sustainability of MEP systems. Effective MEP design management leads to cost savings, improved building performance, client satisfaction, and enhanced AECOM reputation, contributing significantly to the firm's profitability and market position.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific MEP areas (e.g., sustainable design, smart buildings, complex healthcare facilities) through specialized projects and training.

• Leadership Advancement: Progress to roles such as Senior Design Manager, Technical Director, or Head of Department, managing larger teams and more complex portfolios.

• Global Mobility: Leverage AECOM's international network for opportunities on projects in different regions or within global technical groups.

• Project Management: Develop advanced project management skills, potentially leading to roles focused purely on large-scale program or project delivery.

• Business Development: Contribute to client acquisition and proposal development, growing into a client relationship management or business development support role.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's global presence and diverse project portfolio offer substantial avenues for career advancement. The emphasis on continuous learning and development suggests a structured path for professionals to enhance their technical and leadership capabilities, aligning with the company's commitment to career growth.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: AECOM operates with a hybrid working model. Employees are expected to spend 2-3 days per week in the office, balancing remote flexibility with in-person collaboration. The office in Madrid is described as having a "very positive and collaborative working environment, where teamwork and mutual support are part of our culture."

Office Location(s): The primary office location is in Madrid, Spain, specifically at C/Alfonso XII. This location provides access to the city's business and transport networks.

Workspace Context:

• The office environment is designed to foster collaboration and teamwork, encouraging interaction between colleagues across different disciplines.

• Access to modern design tools and technologies, including BIM software and other relevant engineering platforms, is expected.

Work Schedule:

• Full-time position with flexible working hours offered. This allows employees to adjust their start and end times to better manage personal commitments while ensuring operational needs are met. The standard work week is approximately 40 hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model is a key feature, offering a balance between remote work flexibility and the benefits of in-person collaboration. The emphasis on a positive and supportive team culture suggests an environment conducive to professional development and effective teamwork.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or recruitment team will review applications for basic qualifications.

• Technical Interview: A discussion with a hiring manager or senior MEP engineer focusing on technical expertise, project experience, and understanding of MEP systems. Expect questions on specific design challenges, methodologies, and problem-solving approaches.

• Managerial/Team Interview: An interview with the direct manager and potentially other team leads to assess leadership style, team collaboration skills, client management approach, and cultural fit. This may include situational questions.

• Case Study/Portfolio Review: Candidates may be asked to present a portfolio showcasing key projects, design methodologies, and problem-solving examples. This is a critical stage to demonstrate practical application of skills and project impact.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader in the Building Engineering division to discuss career aspirations and alignment with AECOM's strategic goals.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Select Projects: Focus on 2-4 projects that best demonstrate your MEP design management experience, leadership, and ability to deliver complex building projects.

• Highlight Your Role: Clearly articulate your specific responsibilities, leadership contributions, and decision-making authority for each project.

• Showcase Process & Impact: Detail the design process, methodologies used (especially BIM, energy modeling), coordination efforts, and quantify outcomes (e.g., cost savings, performance improvements, client satisfaction).

• Visual Presentation: Use clear diagrams, schematics, and visuals to illustrate design concepts and solutions. Ensure high-quality output.

• Client Management Examples: Include instances where you effectively managed client expectations, resolved technical disputes, or built strong client relationships.

• Address Bilingualism: Be prepared to discuss how your English and Spanish fluency facilitates international project success.

Challenge Preparation:

• MEP Design Problem: Be ready to discuss how you would approach a hypothetical MEP design challenge, considering factors like sustainability, budget, and integration with other disciplines.

• Team Leadership Scenario: Prepare for questions about how you motivate teams, resolve conflicts, and ensure high performance under pressure.

• Client Communication Strategy: Think about how you would handle a difficult client conversation or present complex technical information to a non-technical audience.

• BIM/Technology Integration: Be prepared to discuss your experience and perspective on integrating advanced technologies into design workflows.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is likely to be multi-stage, assessing technical acumen, leadership capabilities, and cultural fit. A well-prepared portfolio that clearly articulates project impact and personal contributions is crucial. Demonstrating proficiency in both technical and soft skills, especially client relations and bilingualism, will be key.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• MEP Design Software: AutoCAD, Revit MEP (for BIM), Navisworks (for coordination).

• BIM Platforms: Autodesk Construction Cloud, BIM 360, or similar for collaborative BIM workflows.

• Energy Modeling: IES VE, eQUEST, EnergyPlus, or similar for building energy performance analysis.

• CFD Software: ANSYS Fluent, OpenFOAM, or similar for advanced fluid dynamics simulations.

• Project Management Software: MS Project, Primavera P6, or AECOM's internal project management tools for planning and scheduling.

• Collaboration Tools: Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for team communication and file sharing.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Performance Dashboards: Tools for tracking project progress, budget adherence, and team performance.

• Reporting Tools: Microsoft Excel, Power BI, or similar for data analysis and generating project reports.

• BIM Analytics: Tools integrated with BIM models for clash detection, quantity take-offs, and performance analysis.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: Potentially Salesforce or similar for managing client relationships and business development activities (less direct for this role, but awareness is beneficial).

• Workflow Automation: Awareness of how automation can be applied to design processes, reporting, and project management tasks.

• Integration Tools: Understanding of how different software platforms can be integrated to streamline workflows (e.g., BIM to scheduling software).

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with BIM software (Revit MEP) and advanced design analysis tools (Energy Modeling, CFD) is highly valued. Experience with project management and collaboration platforms is also essential for effective team and project coordination within AECOM's global operations.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Technical Excellence: A commitment to delivering high-quality, innovative, and technically sound engineering solutions.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive environment where colleagues work together across disciplines and geographies to achieve common goals.

• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and exceeding client expectations, building trust and long-term partnerships.

• Sustainability & Innovation: Driving forward-thinking designs that contribute to a better world, incorporating sustainable practices and embracing new technologies.

• Integrity & Safety: Upholding the highest ethical standards and prioritizing the safety of employees and the public in all project aspects.

• Efficiency & Optimization: Continuously seeking ways to improve design processes, project delivery, and resource utilization.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Strong emphasis on working collaboratively with architects, structural engineers, project managers, and other specialists.

• Open Communication: Encouraging transparent and regular communication through meetings, digital platforms, and documentation.

• Shared Learning: A culture that promotes knowledge sharing, mentorship, and continuous professional development among team members.

• Feedback-Driven Improvement: Actively seeking and providing constructive feedback to enhance team performance and individual growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's culture is built on delivering impactful projects through technical expertise and collaborative effort. The values emphasize not only professional achievement but also ethical conduct, sustainability, and a commitment to client success, all within a framework of continuous improvement and teamwork.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Diverse Stakeholders: Balancing the needs and expectations of international clients, various internal disciplines, and external regulatory bodies.

• Coordinating Global Teams: Ensuring seamless communication and integration when working with teams located in different time zones and cultural contexts.

• Adopting New Technologies: Keeping pace with rapid advancements in design software, BIM, and other digital tools, and effectively integrating them into existing workflows.

• Navigating Complex Regulations: Understanding and complying with diverse international building codes, standards, and client-specific requirements.

• Delivering Under Pressure: Meeting demanding project deadlines and budget constraints while maintaining high technical quality and client satisfaction.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Access to specialized courses and certifications in areas like sustainable design, BIM management, or specific MEP system technologies.

• Leadership Development Programs: Opportunities to hone management, communication, and strategic planning skills through AECOM's internal leadership programs.

• Industry Conferences & Seminars: Participation in leading industry events to stay abreast of the latest trends, technologies, and best practices.

• Mentorship: Access to experienced senior engineers and leaders within AECOM for guidance and career advice.

• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Opportunities to work on diverse project types and collaborate with a wide range of specialists, broadening professional experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents opportunities to tackle complex, international projects and lead advanced design initiatives. AECOM's commitment to employee development provides a strong framework for professionals to grow their technical expertise, leadership skills, and career trajectory within the global infrastructure sector.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Technical Strategy: "How would you approach the MEP design for a high-rise sustainable office building in a region with specific climate challenges?" (Focus on process, tools, and considerations).

• Leadership & Team Management: "Describe a time you had to lead a team through a significant technical challenge or conflict. What was your approach, and what was the outcome?" (Highlight leadership style and problem-solving).

• Client Management: "How do you ensure effective communication and manage client expectations on complex, international projects, especially when technical scope changes are involved?" (Focus on communication strategies and relationship building).

• Process Improvement: "Can you give an example of a process you improved within an MEP design workflow, and what were the measurable benefits?" (Demonstrate analytical and optimization skills).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you most about AECOM's mission to 'deliver a better world' and how do you see your role contributing to that?" (Align your values with the company's).

• "How do you approach collaboration with architects and structural engineers when their design priorities may differ from MEP requirements?" (Showcase interdisciplinary teamwork).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your presentation logically, perhaps by project type or by key skills demonstrated (e.g., leadership, technical innovation, client management).

• Quantify Impact: For each project, clearly state your role, the project's scale, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented, and the quantifiable outcomes (e.g., % energy savings, budget adherence, client feedback scores).

• Highlight BIM/Technology: Explicitly show how you've utilized BIM, energy modeling, or CFD, and the value they brought to the design and coordination process.

• Bilingualism: Be prepared to present or discuss key sections of your portfolio in both English and Spanish, demonstrating your fluency and ability to communicate technical details effectively in both languages.

• Conciseness: Keep your presentation focused and avoid getting bogged down in excessive detail. Aim for clarity and impact.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong technical foundation, proven leadership and client management skills, and an understanding of AECOM's values and technological approach. Be ready to articulate your contributions using specific examples and quantifiable results, and be proficient in discussing your experience in both English and Spanish.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight your MEP design management experience, leadership achievements, client interaction successes, and proficiency in BIM and other relevant technologies. Ensure your bilingual capabilities (English/Spanish) are clearly stated.

• Portfolio Preparation: Curate a professional portfolio showcasing 2-4 key projects. Focus on demonstrating your leadership in MEP design, coordination processes, technical problem-solving, and the impact of your work. Be ready to present this portfolio, potentially in both English and Spanish.

• Interview Practice: Prepare for technical questions about MEP systems, design methodologies, and project management. Practice answering situational questions related to team leadership, client management, and cross-disciplinary collaboration. Rehearse your portfolio presentation.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with AECOM's global projects, values, and commitment to sustainability and innovation. Understand their approach to building engineering and the role of technology like BIM. Research key individuals in AECOM's Building Engineering division if possible.

⚠️ 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.