Principal Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Principal Design Manager

Company: Stantec

Location: South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia

Job Type: Full-time, Regular

Category: Engineering Management / Design Management (Water Infrastructure)

Date Posted: 2026-08-23

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage multi-disciplinary technical teams in the planning, design, and delivery of critical water and wastewater infrastructure projects.

• Drive the development of innovative and cost-effective technical solutions that meet client needs and align with Stantec's business strategies.

• Foster strong client relationships through exceptional service delivery and a deep understanding of client business objectives.

• Oversee project execution from concept to construction, ensuring adherence to budget, timeline, and quality standards.

• Contribute to business development efforts by supporting proposal and bid processes and identifying new opportunities within the water sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a senior-level Design Manager within Stantec's Water Division, focusing on significant water and wastewater projects in Queensland. The emphasis on "Principal" indicates a leadership role with substantial responsibility for technical outcomes, client engagement, and team management, aligning with senior engineering management or GTM (Go-To-Market) operations within a consulting engineering context.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Plan, program, and coordinate studies, investigations, design, and construction management for key water and wastewater projects, acting as Design Manager or Project Technical Lead.

• Ensure the delivery of agreed project outputs on budget, on time, and to high-quality standards through meticulous planning and execution.

• Provide technical expertise and leadership to internal engineering disciplines and external subcontractors, fostering a collaborative and efficient project environment.

• Conduct internal technical reviews and verification checks across all aspects of water and wastewater projects to maintain design integrity and compliance.

• Develop and nurture strong, value-driven working relationships with clients, understanding their business needs and delivering solutions that exceed expectations.

• Support business development activities by contributing to proposal and bid development, ensuring high standards in all submissions.

• Facilitate design coordination and review meetings with clients and stakeholders, leveraging knowledge of engineering assurance processes and a systems approach.

• Prepare contract technical specifications, scope of works, and technical schedules, ensuring clarity and accuracy.

• Identify and pursue new business opportunities with key utility and water-focused clients, aligning with Stantec's strategic growth objectives.

• Drive continuous improvement in project delivery expertise locally and across the ANZ business.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical design leadership, project management, client relationship management, and business development, typical for a Principal-level role in a consulting engineering firm focused on infrastructure. The emphasis on "driving value into our solutions" and "understanding the client’s business" points to a strategic approach beyond just technical execution.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Tertiary Qualification in a relevant Engineering field (e.g., Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Mechanical Engineering with a focus on water systems).

Experience: Minimum of 10 years of experience in civil or process-mechanical water infrastructure engineering, encompassing both design and construction phases.

Required Skills:

• Chartered Professional Engineer (CPEng) and Registered Professional Engineer of Queensland (RPEQ) accreditation, or the ability to obtain them.

• Exceptional leadership abilities, with proven experience managing subcontractors and multidisciplinary engineering teams.

• Advanced knowledge of water and wastewater services, including design principles, operational considerations, and the broader delivery environment.

• Highly developed problem-solving and negotiation skills, essential for resolving complex project disputes and challenges.

• Strong understanding of Design & Construct (D&C) or alternative project delivery models.

• Proficient in report writing, with a demonstrated ability to articulate technical information and present compelling project narratives.

• Experience in coordinating multi-disciplinary inputs to ensure integrated and optimized technical solutions.

• Proven ability to deliver project outputs on time and to defined quality standards.

• Demonstrated capability in client relationship management and business development support. Preferred Skills:

• Experience in proposal and bid development for major infrastructure projects.

• Familiarity with engineering assurance processes and systems-based design review methodologies.

• Strong analytical skills for technical reviews and verification checks.

• Experience in preparing contract technical specifications and scope of works.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for CPEng and RPEQ is critical for operating as a professional engineer in Queensland, Australia, underscoring the regulatory and professional rigor expected. The 10+ years of experience combined with leadership skills indicates a senior role requiring significant technical depth and management capability.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Documented evidence of successful leadership in managing complex water and wastewater infrastructure projects from inception to completion.

• Case studies showcasing the development and implementation of integrated technical solutions, demonstrating coordination across multiple engineering disciplines.

• Examples of client engagement strategies and successful relationship management leading to repeat business or expanded project scope.

• Demonstrations of on-time and on-budget project delivery, with clear metrics and outcomes.

• Records of technical reviews and verification processes undertaken, highlighting contributions to design quality and risk mitigation. Process Documentation:

• Showcase experience in developing and implementing robust project planning and programming methodologies for infrastructure projects.

• Illustrate proficiency in managing subcontractors and multidisciplinary teams, detailing team coordination and performance management processes.

• Provide examples of client interaction protocols, including meeting facilitation, stakeholder management, and feedback integration.

• Detail experience in preparing technical specifications, scope of works, and contract documentation, highlighting attention to detail and clarity.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Principal Design Manager role, a portfolio should emphasize strategic project leadership, complex problem-solving, and significant client-facing achievements. The focus should be on demonstrating the ability to manage large-scale, multi-faceted projects, not just individual technical contributions.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for Principal Design Manager roles in engineering consulting in South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia, with 10+ years of experience and RPEQ/CPEng accreditation, the estimated annual salary range is AUD $180,000 - $250,000. This estimate considers the seniority of the role, specialized technical expertise required, and the demand for experienced professionals in the Australian water infrastructure sector.

Benefits:

• Genuine Flexible Working Arrangements: Including work from home opportunities, provision for school term contracts, job sharing, and part-time employment options.

• Learning and Talent Development Programs: Access to global programs, online learning platforms, and structured on-the-job learning to foster continuous professional growth.

• Additional Leave: Option to purchase up to 4 weeks of additional annual leave.

• Mentoring: Opportunities for personal development through mentorship and the chance to mentor junior engineers.

• Professional Memberships: Support for maintaining professional body memberships.

• Salary Continuance Insurance (SCI): Provided for financial security.

• Mental Health and Wellbeing Programs: Comprehensive support for employee wellbeing.

• Service Recognition Awards: Acknowledging long-term commitment and contributions.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential support services for employees and their families.

Working Hours: A standard 40-hour work week is typical, with the flexibility offered through Stantec's arrangements allowing for potential adjustments based on project needs and individual circumstances.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on publicly available data for similar senior engineering management roles in Australia. Actual compensation will be determined by Stantec based on the candidate's specific qualifications, experience, and the scope of responsibilities. The benefits package is comprehensive, indicating a strong focus on employee wellbeing and professional development.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering, Consulting, Construction, and Design (Water & Wastewater Infrastructure)

Company Size: Stantec is a global organization with approximately 34,000 employees working in over 450 locations across six continents. This provides a vast network of expertise and resources.

Founded: Stantec was founded in 1954, bringing decades of experience and a well-established reputation in the engineering and consulting sector.

Team Structure:

• The Water team in Australia comprises over 400 specialists, indicating a substantial and experienced group focused on water solutions.

• This role operates within the Queensland Water Division, likely comprising project managers, design engineers (civil, mechanical, electrical, process), environmental specialists, and other technical experts.

• The reporting structure will likely involve reporting to a senior leader within the Water Division (e.g., Water Sector Lead or Operations Director) and managing project teams composed of various engineering disciplines and subcontractors. Methodology:

• Stantec emphasizes a collaborative approach, working across business lines and geographies to achieve optimal project outcomes.

• The company focuses on developing innovative solutions at the intersection of community needs, creativity, and client relationships.

• Data-driven decision-making and a systems approach to design reviews are implied by the role's responsibilities.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Stantec's global presence and extensive experience in the water sector suggest a highly professional and structured working environment. The emphasis on collaboration and client relationships points to a culture that values both technical excellence and interpersonal skills. The size of the Australian Water team indicates significant local capacity and expertise.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This Principal Design Manager role represents a senior leadership position within the engineering and project delivery domain. It signifies a transition from individual technical contribution to strategic oversight, team management, client relationship building, and business development support. The "Principal" title suggests an expert level, often a stepping stone to Director or Vice President roles in larger organizations.

Reporting Structure: The role will likely report to a senior manager within Stantec's Water Division in Australia (e.g., a Regional Director, Sector Lead, or Operations Manager). The Principal Design Manager will, in turn, lead and manage project-specific teams, including internal engineers, designers, and external subcontractors.

Operations Impact: The impact of this role is significant, directly influencing the successful delivery of major water and wastewater infrastructure projects that are critical for community development and environmental sustainability in Queensland. Success in this role contributes to Stantec's reputation, client satisfaction, and revenue generation within the water sector. The ability to develop high-level client relationships also directly impacts future business opportunities and market growth.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas of water or wastewater design, management, or delivery models (e.g., advanced treatment technologies, large-scale pipeline projects, complex D&C contracts).

• Leadership Progression: Advance into broader management roles, such as Regional Design Manager, Director of Operations, or Sector Lead, overseeing larger teams and strategic initiatives.

• Business Development: Take on a more prominent role in client engagement, proposal strategy, and securing new major projects.

• Global Mobility: Leverage Stantec's international presence for opportunities in other regions or on global projects.

• Mentorship & Training: Develop leadership and coaching skills by mentoring junior engineers and contributing to Stantec's talent development programs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Principal" title indicates a high level of expertise and leadership, suggesting that candidates are expected to operate with significant autonomy and strategic vision. Growth opportunities are geared towards increasing leadership scope, business impact, and specialized technical authority.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a hybrid role, with the primary base likely being Stantec's South Brisbane office. The role involves a mix of office-based work, client site visits, and potentially some remote work flexibility.

Office Location(s): The position is based in South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. Stantec has multiple offices across Australia and New Zealand, providing a network for collaboration and client engagement.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role requires significant interaction with internal design teams, project managers, and external stakeholders, fostering a collaborative workspace.

• Tools & Technology: Access to Stantec's established project management software, design tools, and communication platforms will be provided. Proficiency with these systems is expected.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities to engage with a large, experienced team of water specialists, providing a rich environment for knowledge sharing and professional development. Site visits to project locations will also be a component.

Work Schedule: The standard working hours are approximately 40 hours per week. The role's nature, particularly during critical project phases or client engagements, may require flexibility in working hours. Stantec offers flexible working arrangements, which can help manage workload and personal commitments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role suggests a balance between structured office collaboration and the flexibility needed for site visits and client meetings. The emphasis on collaboration and knowledge sharing within a large, established firm like Stantec is a key aspect of the work environment.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and cover letter by a recruiter to assess alignment with the core requirements (qualifications, experience, leadership).

• Technical Interview: Likely conducted by senior members of the Water team and potentially a hiring manager. Expect questions focused on your experience managing complex water/wastewater projects, technical design challenges, leadership style, and problem-solving capabilities. Be prepared to discuss specific project examples.

• Portfolio Review/Case Study: You may be asked to present a portfolio of your work or discuss specific project case studies in detail. This is where you'll demonstrate your ability to manage multi-disciplinary teams, deliver on budget and schedule, and manage client relationships.

• Behavioral/Cultural Fit Interview: Assessing your alignment with Stantec's values, collaboration style, and leadership approach. Questions might cover how you handle conflict, motivate teams, and drive innovation.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior executive or regional director to finalize the decision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio by project type or key competency (e.g., Project Leadership, Technical Design Oversight, Client Management, Business Development Support).

• Content: For each project, clearly articulate the challenge, your role and responsibilities, the solutions implemented, key stakeholders, and the quantifiable outcomes (budget, schedule, technical performance, client satisfaction). Use visuals where appropriate.

• Focus on Leadership: Emphasize your role in coordinating teams, managing subcontractors, and driving project success, rather than just individual technical contributions.

• Metrics: Quantify achievements wherever possible (e.g., project value managed, cost savings achieved, schedule improvements, client retention rates).

• Tailoring: Highlight projects most relevant to Stantec's work in Queensland and the specific requirements of this Principal Design Manager role.

Challenge Preparation:

• Technical Scenarios: Be ready to discuss hypothetical or past technical challenges related to water/wastewater design, project delays, or stakeholder disputes. Prepare structured answers using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).

• Leadership Scenarios: Prepare examples of how you have led teams through difficult periods, managed underperforming individuals or subcontractors, and fostered a positive team culture.

• Client Management: Think about how you build and maintain client relationships, handle client dissatisfaction, and identify opportunities for business growth.

• D&C/Delivery Models: Be prepared to discuss your experience with different project delivery methods and the nuances of managing D&C projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is likely to be rigorous, reflecting the seniority of the role. A strong emphasis will be placed on demonstrating leadership, technical acumen, and a proven track record of successful project delivery within the water infrastructure sector. A well-prepared portfolio is crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency with industry-standard project management platforms (e.g., Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Asana, Monday.com) for planning, scheduling, and tracking project progress.

• Design & Engineering Software: Familiarity with common engineering design software suites used in civil and water infrastructure, such as AutoCAD, Civil 3D, Bentley Systems products (e.g., OpenRoads, WaterCAD, SewerCAD), and potentially specialized process simulation software.

• Collaboration Platforms: Experience with tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for team communication and collaboration.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret project performance data, financial reports, and technical metrics. Familiarity with tools like Microsoft Excel (advanced functions) for data manipulation and analysis.

• Reporting Tools: Experience generating project status reports, technical review summaries, and client presentations.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: While not a primary sales role, an understanding of CRM principles for client relationship management and tracking business development activities may be beneficial.

• Document Management Systems: Familiarity with enterprise-level document control systems (e.g., SharePoint, Aconex) for managing project documentation.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific software isn't listed, a Principal Design Manager is expected to be adept with project management, design coordination tools, and robust communication platforms. The focus is on leveraging technology to manage complex projects efficiently and collaboratively.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Client Focus: Delivering value-driven business solutions and understanding client needs to build strong, lasting relationships.

• Excellence: Commitment to high-quality technical solutions, meticulous project delivery, and continuous improvement.

• Collaboration: Working effectively across multi-disciplinary teams, both internally and with external partners, to achieve integrated outcomes.

• Innovation: A "can-do, solution-focused attitude" that encourages creative problem-solving and the development of optimized technical approaches.

• Integrity: Upholding professional standards in all aspects of work, including technical reviews, contract management, and stakeholder interactions.

Collaboration Style:

• Integrated Teams: Encourages seamless coordination between various engineering disciplines, project management, and subcontractors to ensure holistic project success.

• Proactive Communication: Facilitates regular design coordination and review meetings with clients and stakeholders to ensure alignment and address issues promptly.

• Knowledge Sharing: Fosters an environment where expertise is shared across the team and the broader ANZ business, particularly in water and wastewater project delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: Stantec's values emphasize a client-centric, collaborative, and solution-oriented approach. Candidates should demonstrate an ability to work effectively in a team environment, drive projects forward with a positive attitude, and uphold high professional standards.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Complex Projects: Effectively coordinating multiple disciplines, subcontractors, and client requirements on large-scale water and wastewater projects.

• Technical Problem Solving: Resolving intricate design issues, site challenges, and contractual disputes to keep projects on track.

• Client Relationship Management: Maintaining and strengthening relationships with key utility clients, especially during challenging project phases or negotiations.

• Business Development Support: Balancing project delivery responsibilities with the need to support sales and proposal efforts.

• Adapting to Evolving Standards: Staying current with new technologies, regulatory changes, and best practices in water infrastructure design and delivery.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Project Management: Access to Stantec's global learning programs for advanced project management techniques, risk management, and leadership development.

• Technical Specialization: Opportunities to attend industry conferences, workshops, and training sessions focused on cutting-edge water and wastewater technologies and methodologies.

• Mentorship Programs: Engage in formal or informal mentorship to gain insights from senior leaders and develop leadership capabilities.

• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Working on diverse projects provides exposure to various engineering disciplines, broadening technical understanding.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents opportunities to tackle significant engineering challenges and contribute to impactful infrastructure projects. Growth is tied to expanding leadership scope, deepening technical expertise, and contributing to business growth within a supportive global organization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a major water infrastructure project you managed from design through construction. What were the key challenges, how did you lead your team to overcome them, and what were the ultimate outcomes?" (Focus on leadership, problem-solving, and delivery metrics)

• "How do you ensure effective coordination and integration among multi-disciplinary engineering teams and subcontractors on a complex project?" (Highlight communication, collaboration strategies, and process management)

• "Walk me through your approach to building and maintaining strong relationships with key clients, particularly in the utility sector." (Emphasize client-centricity, understanding business needs, and value delivery)

• "Describe a situation where you had to negotiate a significant dispute on a project. What was your strategy, and what was the resolution?" (Focus on negotiation skills, problem-solving, and conflict resolution)

• "How do you contribute to business development efforts beyond your direct project responsibilities?" (Showcase understanding of client engagement, proposal support, and opportunity identification) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Stantec and specifically our Water team in Queensland?" (Research Stantec's values, recent projects, and the Queensland water market)

• "How do you align with Stantec's values of client focus, excellence, collaboration, and innovation?" (Provide specific examples from your career)

• "How would you approach building rapport with a new client or managing a challenging client relationship?" (Demonstrate interpersonal skills and client management strategies) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Executive Summary: Start with a high-level overview of your career and key achievements before diving into specific projects.

• Project Deep Dives: For 2-3 key projects, use a structured approach: Project context/challenge, your specific role/responsibilities, key technical/management strategies, team coordination, stakeholder engagement, and quantifiable results.

• Visual Aids: Use concise slides with key data points, diagrams, or project photos to illustrate your points. Avoid text-heavy slides.

• Focus on Impact: Clearly articulate the value you brought to the project, the client, and Stantec.

• Q&A Readiness: Be prepared to answer detailed questions about any aspect of your presented work.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating strategic leadership, deep technical understanding of water infrastructure, strong client management skills, and a proven ability to manage complex projects and teams. Be ready to discuss your RPEQ/CPEng experience and how you apply engineering principles in practice.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Principal Design Manager position:

• Submit your most recent CV outlining your relevant experience through the provided application link on the Stantec Taleo careers portal.

• Portfolio Preparation: Curate a portfolio that highlights your experience in managing major water and wastewater infrastructure projects, emphasizing leadership, technical oversight, client relationship management, and successful delivery metrics. Prepare to discuss specific case studies in detail.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly articulates your 10+ years of experience in civil/process-mechanical water infrastructure engineering, your CPEng/RPEQ status, and your leadership capabilities. Use keywords from the job description such as "Design Manager," "Water Infrastructure," "Wastewater," "Project Delivery," and "Multidisciplinary Team Management."

• Interview Practice: Rehearse answers to common interview questions, particularly those related to project leadership, technical problem-solving, client management, and team coordination. Practice presenting your portfolio or case studies concisely and effectively.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Stantec's global presence, its Water sector capabilities, recent projects in Australia (especially Queensland), and its core values to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural alignment.

⚠️ 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.