MEP Design Manager | Building Engineering

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: MEP Design Manager | Building Engineering

Company: AECOM

Location: Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Building Engineering / MEP Design Management

Date Posted: May 19, 2026

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

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage multidisciplinary MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Public Health, Fire Protection, Telecom) engineering teams to deliver complex building and infrastructure projects.

• Drive technical excellence and ensure client satisfaction by overseeing the entire MEP design process from conceptualization to completion.

• Serve as a key liaison between clients and AECOM, fostering strong relationships and ensuring alignment with project goals.

• Implement and leverage advanced design technologies such as Building Information Modelling (BIM), energy modelling, and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to enhance project delivery.

• Contribute to the strategic growth and reputation of AECOM's Building Engineering practice through high-quality, efficient, and coordinated MEP solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as an MEP Design Manager, implying a strong emphasis on leadership, technical oversight, and client-facing responsibilities within the building engineering sector. The focus on BIM, energy modelling, and CFD suggests a forward-thinking organization that values innovation in design processes. The hybrid work model and flexible hours indicate a commitment to work-life balance, which is attractive to experienced operations professionals.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor multidisciplinary MEP engineering teams, fostering a collaborative environment to achieve project objectives and ensure technical excellence.

• Oversee the development, review, and approval of all MEP engineering solutions, ensuring compliance with industry standards, client requirements, and regulatory codes.

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

• Develop and meticulously manage project schedules and plans in close collaboration with the Planning Engineer, ensuring timely delivery of all MEP design milestones.

• Proactively identify potential project changes, assess their technical and commercial impact, and provide robust justification to the Project Manager for informed decision-making.

• Cultivate and maintain strong collaborative relationships with other design disciplines, including Architecture and Structural Engineering, to ensure seamless integration of MEP systems.

• Drive continuous improvement in technical expertise within the MEP team and champion individual professional development through training and knowledge sharing.

• Ensure project delivery is within budget constraints, working closely with project management to monitor costs and optimize resource allocation.

• Contribute to business development efforts by supporting proposal preparation and client presentations, showcasing AECOM's MEP design capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical leadership, project management, and client relations. The emphasis on "delivering, reviewing and approve engineering solutions" and "planning and scheduling project activities" points to significant autonomy and accountability in project execution. The need to "develop and maintain strong working relationships with other disciplines" underscores the importance of cross-functional collaboration, a hallmark of effective operations management.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's or Master's degree in Engineering (preferably in Mechanical, Electrical, or related disciplines)

Experience:

• Minimum of 5-10 years of progressive experience in developing conceptual installation designs through to completion.

• Proven track record in MEP discipline coordination and direct client interaction within the building services sector.

• Demonstrated success in collaborating with design teams on national and international projects.

Required Skills:

• Strong technical proficiency in mechanical or electrical engineering principles and applications.

• In-depth understanding of MEP systems including public health, fire protection, and telecommunications.

• Expertise in Building Information Modelling (BIM) for design coordination and clash detection.

• Proven ability to lead and manage multidisciplinary engineering teams effectively.

• Excellent client relationship management skills, with a consultative and solutions-oriented approach.

• Strong project planning, scheduling, and budget management capabilities.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with energy modelling software and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis tools.

• Familiarity with project management methodologies and software.

• Knowledge of relevant international building codes and standards.

• Experience in a consulting engineering environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of "conceptual installation designs through to completion" and "MEP discipline coordination" indicates a need for candidates with end-to-end project lifecycle experience. The requirement for fluency in both English and Spanish is critical for a role based in Barcelona serving international clients. The preference for construction environment experience suggests that practical, on-site knowledge is highly valued.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 significant MEP design projects, detailing your specific role, responsibilities, and contributions.

• For each project, clearly articulate the design challenges, the innovative solutions implemented, and the resulting impact on project delivery (e.g., efficiency gains, cost savings, sustainability improvements).

• Include examples of your experience with advanced design technologies such as BIM, energy modelling, and CFD, demonstrating proficiency and strategic application.

• Highlight instances of successful client engagement, demonstrating your ability to manage expectations, communicate complex technical information, and build strong relationships.

Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate experience in developing and implementing standardized MEP design processes and workflows.

• Provide examples of how you have contributed to or led the optimization of design processes to improve efficiency, reduce errors, and enhance project outcomes.

• Illustrate your approach to technical review and quality assurance processes for MEP designs, ensuring adherence to standards and best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role, a portfolio is crucial. It should not just list projects but tell a story of leadership, technical problem-solving, and successful project outcomes. Emphasis should be placed on demonstrating the candidate's ability to manage complex, multidisciplinary projects and effectively communicate technical details and strategic decisions. The inclusion of BIM, energy modelling, and CFD within the portfolio is a strong indicator of desired technical capabilities.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: €55,000 - €75,000 per annum (estimated)

Explanation of Estimate: Based on market research for MEP Design Manager roles in Barcelona, Spain, with 5-10 years of experience, this range reflects the typical compensation for professionals with the required technical expertise, leadership skills, and client-facing experience. Factors considered include the cost of living in Barcelona, industry benchmarks for engineering consulting firms like AECOM, and the responsibilities associated with managing multidisciplinary teams and complex projects.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance plans.

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

• Disability Benefits to provide income protection.

• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) and various Leaves of Absences.

• Access to Voluntary Benefits options for personalized coverage.

• Employee Perks program offering discounts and special offers.

• Flexible Work Options, including a hybrid model and flexible working hours.

• Well-being Resources and Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for holistic support.

• Business Travel Insurance for any work-related travel.

• Service Recognition Awards to acknowledge long-term contributions.

• Retirement Savings Plan to support long-term financial security.

• Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) for ownership opportunities.

Working Hours: Standard full-time hours (approximately 40 hours per week), with flexible working hours to support work-life balance. This includes the hybrid working model, typically requiring 2-3 days per week in the Barcelona office.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on industry data for similar roles in Barcelona. AECOM's extensive benefits package is a significant draw, offering robust support for employee health, financial well-being, and work-life integration, which are key considerations for experienced professionals. The hybrid model with specified office days is a concrete detail for candidates evaluating work arrangements.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Infrastructure Consulting (Engineering, Design, Program Management)

Company Size: Global enterprise with over 50,000 employees worldwide. AECOM Spain is a significant entity within this global network.

Founded: AECOM was founded in 1910, bringing over a century of experience in delivering complex projects and building legacies.

Team Structure:

• The Building Engineering team in Spain is part of AECOM's global Buildings & Places (B&P) business line.

• This role reports to a senior leader within the Building Engineering practice, likely a Director or Senior Manager.

• The MEP Design Manager will lead a dedicated team of MEP engineers and coordinate closely with other discipline leads (Architecture, Structural) and general Project/Design Managers.

Methodology:

• AECOM emphasizes world-class methodologies and technologies, including advanced digital tools like BIM, energy modelling, and CFD.

• The approach is client-centric, focusing on delivering tailored solutions that meet complex challenges and build sustainable legacies.

• A strong emphasis is placed on technical excellence, innovation, and collaborative problem-solving across disciplines.

• Data-driven decision-making and performance monitoring are integral to project execution.

Company Website: https://aecom.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's global presence and long history signify stability and extensive project experience. The emphasis on digital tools like BIM and CFD indicates a commitment to innovation and efficient design processes, aligning with the needs of modern operations roles. The team structure suggests a matrixed environment where collaboration across different business units and geographies is key.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Mid-Senior Level Management position. It requires significant technical expertise in MEP systems and proven experience in leading design teams and managing project lifecycles. The role involves strategic input into design processes and client engagement.

Reporting Structure: The MEP Design Manager will report to a higher-level manager within the Building Engineering practice, likely a Director or Senior Principal. They will directly manage a team of MEP engineers and coordinate with other project leads.

Operations Impact: The MEP Design Manager plays a critical role in ensuring the technical success, efficiency, and client satisfaction of building and infrastructure projects. Their ability to deliver high-quality, coordinated designs directly impacts project timelines, budgets, sustainability goals, and AECOM's reputation as a leading engineering consultancy. Effective operations management by the MEP Design Manager is crucial for project profitability and client retention.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific MEP areas or advanced design technologies (e.g., sustainable design, smart building systems).

• Project Leadership: Progress to managing larger, more complex, or international projects, potentially taking on a Project Director role.

• Management Advancement: Move into senior leadership positions within the Building Engineering practice, focusing on business strategy, client development, and team growth.

• Global Mobility: Leverage AECOM's international network to work on diverse projects across different regions.

• Professional Development: Access AECOM's extensive training and development programs, including opportunities for certifications and advanced technical courses.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth opportunities are clearly defined, offering pathways for both technical mastery and leadership progression. This aligns with the career aspirations of experienced operations professionals who seek continuous learning and advancement within a reputable global organization. The emphasis on global mobility and development programs is a strong indicator of AECOM's investment in its talent.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in a hybrid work environment, requiring a blend of remote work and in-office presence. AECOM offices are typically professional, modern, and equipped with the necessary technology to support design and collaboration.

Office Location(s): The primary office location mentioned is Barcelona, Spain (C/Alfonso XII). This implies access to a vibrant metropolitan hub with excellent transport links.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The office environment is designed to foster teamwork, with shared workspaces, meeting rooms, and collaborative zones to facilitate interaction between different disciplines and teams.

• Technology & Tools: Access to AECOM's robust IT infrastructure, including high-performance workstations, specialized design software (CAD, BIM, etc.), and secure network access.

• Team Interaction: Regular opportunities for face-to-face interaction with other MEP engineers, architects, structural engineers, project managers, and senior leadership, promoting knowledge sharing and cross-functional problem-solving.

Work Schedule: A hybrid work schedule is standard, typically involving 2-3 days per week in the office. Flexible working hours are offered, allowing professionals to manage their schedules effectively around project demands and personal needs, which is particularly beneficial for deep work requiring focused concentration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model and flexible hours are key features of the work environment, offering a good balance between remote flexibility and in-person collaboration, which is increasingly valued by professionals. The mention of specific office location details and AECOM's commitment to providing necessary technology underscores a well-supported work setting.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your application, resume, and potentially a brief introductory call with HR or a recruiter to assess basic qualifications and cultural fit.

• Technical Interview(s): Discussions with members of the Building Engineering team, including senior MEP engineers and potentially the hiring manager. Expect questions on your technical expertise, project experience, and approach to MEP design challenges.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session to present and discuss your project portfolio. Be prepared to walk through key projects, explain your contributions, design decisions, and the outcomes achieved. Focus on demonstrating leadership, problem-solving, and client management skills.

• Managerial/Team Interview: A meeting with the direct manager and potentially other team leads to assess leadership style, team collaboration capabilities, and strategic thinking.

• Final Interview: A potential final interview with a senior leader within the business unit to discuss overall fit, career aspirations, and strategic alignment with AECOM's goals.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-5 projects that best showcase your MEP design management experience, multidisciplinary coordination, and client engagement.

• Quantify Achievements: Where possible, use metrics to demonstrate the impact of your work (e.g., % cost savings, % reduction in design time, energy efficiency improvements).

• Highlight Leadership: Clearly articulate your role in leading teams, making critical design decisions, and managing project execution.

• Showcase Innovation: Emphasize the use of advanced technologies like BIM, energy modeling, and CFD and explain their strategic benefits.

• Prepare for Q&A: Anticipate questions about your design philosophy, conflict resolution, and how you handle challenging stakeholders or technical issues.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss how you would approach a hypothetical MEP design challenge for a specific building type.

• Prepare to elaborate on your experience with project scheduling, budget management, and risk mitigation in complex projects.

• Practice articulating your communication strategy for different stakeholders, including clients, internal teams, and other disciplines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process emphasizes structured evaluation, with a strong focus on a portfolio review. This indicates that practical demonstration of skills and experience is paramount. Candidates should prepare to articulate their contributions and impact with specific examples, demonstrating strategic thinking beyond just technical execution.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

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

• BIM Platforms: Extensive use of Building Information Modelling (BIM) for integrated design, collaboration, and project lifecycle management.

• Energy Modelling Software: Tools such as IES VE, eQUEST, or similar for simulating building energy performance.

• CFD Software: Applications for Computational Fluid Dynamics analysis to optimize airflow, thermal comfort, and ventilation.

• Project Management Software: Primavera P6 or Microsoft Project for detailed project scheduling and resource planning.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Potentially Excel for data manipulation and basic analysis, with possibilities for more advanced BI tools depending on project scope.

• Reporting Tools: Standard office suites (Microsoft Office) for creating technical reports, presentations, and project documentation.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM: While not explicitly mentioned for a design role, familiarity with client management systems or client databases is beneficial.

• Integration Tools: Understanding of how different software platforms integrate to ensure seamless data flow between design, planning, and project management systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack highlights AECOM's commitment to advanced digital design tools. Proficiency in BIM, energy modeling, and CFD is essential, as these are core to modern building engineering. Familiarity with project management and scheduling software is also critical for the managerial aspects of the role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity and Trust: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all dealings with clients, colleagues, and projects. Building trust through reliable performance and transparent communication.

• Excellence and Innovation: A commitment to delivering technically superior solutions and continuously seeking innovative approaches to design and problem-solving. Embracing new technologies and methodologies.

• Collaboration and Teamwork: Fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and collective effort drives success. Strong emphasis on cross-disciplinary cooperation.

• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and exceeding client expectations, building long-term partnerships through exceptional service and impactful project delivery.

• Sustainability and Resilience: Integrating sustainable design principles and resilient solutions into all projects, contributing to a better world.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Proactive engagement with Architecture, Structural, and other engineering disciplines to ensure holistic project development.

• Open Communication: Encouraging open dialogue, constructive feedback, and knowledge sharing within the MEP team and across project teams.

• Proactive Problem Solving: A culture that encourages identifying potential issues early and collaborating to find effective solutions.

• Global Connectivity: Leveraging AECOM's international network to share best practices and gain insights from global experts.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's values emphasize a strong ethical foundation, a drive for excellence and innovation, and a collaborative spirit. These are crucial for a leadership role that requires managing diverse teams and client relationships effectively. The focus on sustainability is also a key differentiator in the industry.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complex Project Demands: Managing the intricacies of large-scale, multidisciplinary projects with diverse stakeholder requirements and tight deadlines.

• Technological Adaptation: Staying abreast of rapidly evolving design technologies (BIM, AI in design, advanced simulation) and integrating them effectively into workflows.

• Global Team Coordination: Ensuring seamless coordination and communication across geographically dispersed teams with varying cultural and professional backgrounds.

• Client Expectation Management: Balancing client demands with technical feasibility, budget constraints, and regulatory requirements.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Access to specialized courses and workshops on cutting-edge MEP technologies, sustainable design, and digital engineering tools.

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

• Industry Conferences & Networking: Participation in leading industry events to stay current with trends, network with peers, and gain exposure to new ideas.

• Mentorship Programs: Opportunities to be mentored by senior leaders within AECOM or to mentor junior engineers, fostering knowledge transfer and leadership growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for senior management roles in a global engineering firm, requiring adaptability and strong problem-solving skills. The learning and development opportunities are robust, offering clear pathways for continuous professional growth and career advancement, both technically and managerially.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex MEP design project you managed from concept to completion. What were the biggest technical challenges, and how did you overcome them using advanced technologies like BIM or CFD?" (Focus on demonstrating technical leadership, problem-solving, and technology application).

• "How do you ensure effective coordination and communication between MEP, architectural, and structural teams on a large-scale project? Provide an example of a coordination conflict you resolved." (Showcase collaboration, communication strategies, and conflict resolution skills).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about AECOM's commitment to sustainability and resilience, and how would you integrate these principles into your MEP design management approach?" (Demonstrate research and alignment with company values).

• "How do you foster a collaborative and high-performing team culture, especially within a hybrid work environment?" (Show your leadership style and team-building capabilities).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Structure your portfolio presentation around compelling narratives for each project, focusing on the problem, your solution, and the measurable impact.

• Visual Aids: Use clear, concise visuals (schematics, BIM models, renderings, charts) to illustrate complex technical concepts and project outcomes.

• Quantifiable Results: Be prepared to discuss specific metrics related to cost savings, efficiency gains, energy performance, or adherence to schedule.

• Client Focus: Emphasize how your designs and management approach directly addressed client needs and contributed to their success.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview preparation advice is tailored to highlight the key competencies required for an MEP Design Manager: technical expertise, leadership, client management, and strategic thinking. Practicing responses to these types of questions, especially with portfolio examples, will be crucial for success.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Tailor your resume: Highlight your experience in MEP design management, multidisciplinary coordination, client liaison, and your proficiency with BIM, energy modelling, and CFD. Quantify achievements wherever possible.

• Prepare your portfolio: Curate a selection of your most impactful projects that demonstrate your leadership, technical expertise, and ability to manage complex MEP designs. Be ready to present and discuss these in detail.

• Research AECOM: Familiarize yourself with AECOM's recent projects, sustainability initiatives, and company values to articulate your alignment during the interview process.

• Practice your interview responses: Prepare to answer behavioral and technical questions, focusing on STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for your examples, especially when discussing 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.