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 / GTM Operations (Infrastructure focus)

Date Posted: 26 May 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage multi-disciplinary engineering teams in the technical delivery of complex water and wastewater infrastructure projects, ensuring adherence to budget, timeline, and quality standards.

• Drive technical excellence and innovation in the development of solutions for clients, focusing on delivering value and meeting specific project requirements within the Queensland market.

• Cultivate and maintain strong, high-level relationships with key utility clients and prospective water-focused clients, aligning with Stantec's business development strategies.

• Play a critical role in the business development lifecycle, from identifying opportunities and supporting proposal development to contributing to technical specifications and scope of works.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Principal Design Manager," the responsibilities heavily emphasize project delivery, client relationships, and business development within the water infrastructure sector. This role bridges technical design leadership with client-facing and strategic growth responsibilities, aligning it with a GTM Operations (Go-To-Market Operations) perspective focused on infrastructure solutions. The emphasis on technical reviews, engineering assurance, and a systems approach to design aligns with operational excellence in project execution.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Technical Leadership & Project Delivery:

  • Plan, program, and coordinate studies, investigations, design, and construction management for water and wastewater projects, serving as the Design Manager or Project Technical Lead.
  • Ensure all project outputs are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.
  • Oversee and coordinate multi-disciplinary inputs from technical teams and specialist consultants to achieve integrated technical solutions.
  • Provide senior leadership and management support to delivery teams during both design and construction phases.

• Client & Business Development:

  • Develop and maintain strong, value-driven business relationships with existing and potential utility and water-focused clients in Queensland.
  • Identify new business opportunities and contribute significantly to proposal and bid development processes, ensuring high standards in all submissions.
  • Prepare contract technical specifications, scope of works, and technical schedules for project proposals and execution.

• Technical Oversight & Assurance:

  • Conduct internal technical reviews and verification checks across all aspects of water and wastewater projects.
  • Facilitate design coordination and review meetings with clients and stakeholders, demonstrating a thorough understanding of engineering assurance processes and a systems approach to design.
  • Apply advanced knowledge of water and wastewater services and the project delivery environment to inform technical strategies and solutions.

• Team Management & Development:

  • Lead and manage internal engineering disciplines and subcontractors effectively.

  • Foster a solution-focussed and collaborative attitude within project teams.

  • Contribute to the development of Stantec's water and wastewater project delivery expertise across Australia and New Zealand.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities outline a blend of technical design leadership, project management, client engagement, and business development. This requires a strategic operational mindset to ensure project success and client satisfaction, aligning with GTM operations principles focused on delivering value and driving growth in the infrastructure sector. The emphasis on "driving value into our solutions" and "understanding the client’s business" points to a strong operational focus on client outcomes.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Tertiary Qualification in a relevant Engineering field (e.g., Civil, Mechanical, Environmental Engineering).

• Professional Engineer Registration (CPEng) and RPEQ (Registered Professional Engineer of Queensland) certification, or the ability to obtain them. Experience:

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

• Proven experience in leading engineering projects and managing multidisciplinary teams, including subcontractors.

• Demonstrated experience in working with Design & Construction (D&C) or similar alternative project delivery models. Required Skills:

• Design Management & Technical Leadership: Proven ability to manage complex engineering designs and lead technical teams through project lifecycles.

• Water & Wastewater Infrastructure Expertise: Advanced knowledge of water and wastewater services, treatment processes, and infrastructure systems.

• Project Delivery & Coordination: Skill in planning, programming, and coordinating multi-disciplinary project activities to ensure timely and high-quality outcomes.

• Client Relationship Management: Ability to develop and maintain strong, high-level relationships with key utility and infrastructure clients.

• Leadership & Team Management: Exceptional ability to lead, motivate, and manage internal teams and subcontractors.

• Problem-Solving & Negotiation: Highly developed skills in resolving disputes and finding effective solutions to complex project challenges.

• Business Development & Proposal Writing: Experience in identifying opportunities, contributing to bids, and preparing technical specifications and proposals.

• Engineering Assurance & Systems Thinking: Familiarity with engineering assurance processes and a systems approach to design reviews.

Preferred Skills:

• D&C Project Delivery Expertise: In-depth understanding of the nuances and operational requirements of Design & Construction projects.

• Report Writing & Communication: Ability to produce clear, compelling reports and communicate technical information effectively to diverse stakeholders.

• Strategic Business Acumen: Understanding of business strategies and how to align technical solutions with client business needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize deep technical expertise in water infrastructure, coupled with strong leadership, client management, and business development capabilities. The requirement for CPEng and RPEQ highlights the critical need for local regulatory understanding and professional standing within Queensland, essential for operational success in this region. The mention of "telling a compelling story" in report writing points to the need for strong communication skills, often honed in operations roles focused on stakeholder engagement.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrable experience in managing the complete lifecycle of water and wastewater infrastructure projects, from conceptualization and design through to construction and commissioning.

• Evidence of successful project delivery, showcasing adherence to budget, schedule, and quality objectives, ideally with quantifiable results.

• Case studies or examples of leading multidisciplinary teams and coordinating specialist inputs to achieve integrated technical solutions.

• Documentation or examples illustrating client engagement strategies and successful relationship management, particularly with utility or public sector clients.

• Examples of contributions to business development efforts, including proposal development, technical specification writing, and scope of work definition. Process Documentation:

• Showcase understanding of engineering assurance processes and a systems approach to design reviews, with examples of application.

• Detail experience with project management methodologies and tools used for planning, scheduling, and tracking project progress.

• Provide examples of how technical challenges were overcome through problem-solving and negotiation, detailing the process followed.

• Illustrate experience in managing subcontractors and ensuring their performance aligns with project objectives and Stantec's standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role like this, a portfolio should highlight not just technical design, but the management of design processes, team coordination, and client engagement. This aligns with operational excellence, demonstrating how processes were implemented to achieve project goals and client satisfaction. The focus on D&C projects implies a need to showcase understanding of fast-paced, integrated delivery processes.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for Principal Design Managers with 10+ years of experience in engineering consulting in major Australian cities like Brisbane, a competitive salary range would typically be AUD $180,000 - $250,000 per annum, potentially higher for exceptional candidates with a strong client portfolio and proven business development success. This estimate considers the seniority of the role, the specialized technical expertise required, and the high cost of living and demand in Queensland's engineering sector. Benefits:

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

• Learning and Talent Development Programs: Access to global programs, online learning resources, and on-the-job learning opportunities for continuous professional growth.

• Additional Leave Purchase Option: Ability to purchase up to 4 additional weeks of leave per year.

• Mentorship: Opportunities for personal development through mentorship and the chance to mentor others, fostering leadership skills.

• Professional Memberships: Support for professional body memberships, crucial for maintaining credentials like CPEng and RPEQ.

• Salary Continuance Insurance (SCI): Financial protection in case of extended absence due to illness or injury.

• Mental Health and Wellbeing Programs: Comprehensive support systems to promote employee wellbeing.

• Service Recognition Awards: Acknowledgment of long-term commitment and contributions to the company.

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

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are typically 37.5 to 40 hours per week. The role offers flexible working arrangements, allowing for potential adjustments to daily schedules to accommodate project demands and personal needs, within the framework of delivering project milestones.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on publicly available data for similar roles in Australia and the stated experience level. Actual compensation will be determined by the candidate's specific qualifications, experience, and negotiation. The benefits package is extensive, emphasizing work-life balance and professional development, which are key attractors for senior engineering talent.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering Consulting, Infrastructure Development, Water & Wastewater Services. Stantec operates globally, with a significant presence in the water sector, addressing critical environmental and community needs.

Company Size: Approximately 34,000 employees worldwide, with a substantial Water team of over 400 specialists in Australia. This indicates a large, well-resourced organization with significant capabilities and opportunities for collaboration.

Founded: Stantec was founded in 1954. Its long history suggests stability, established processes, and deep industry knowledge.

Team Structure:

• The role sits within Stantec's Water team in Australia. This team is described as diverse, with over 400 specialists collaborating across business lines and geographies.

• The Principal Design Manager will likely lead technical teams, implying a hierarchical structure where they manage engineers and coordinate with other disciplines.

• Collaboration is expected across business lines and geographies, indicating a matrixed organizational element where cross-functional teamwork is essential for project success. Methodology:

• Data Analysis and Insights: While not explicitly detailed for this role, Stantec's overall approach likely involves data-driven decision-making in engineering design and project delivery, informed by client needs and project performance metrics.

• Workflow Planning and Optimization: The role's core function involves planning and coordinating project workflows, ensuring efficiency and quality from design through to construction.

• Automation and Efficiency Practices: The emphasis on delivering projects on time and budget suggests a focus on efficient processes, likely supported by project management software and collaborative platforms.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Stantec's global scale and extensive Australian water team suggest a robust operational framework and a strong emphasis on collaborative problem-solving. The company's long history in the industry implies a culture that values expertise, reliability, and long-term client relationships. The mention of "change-makers, innovators, leaders and collaborators" suggests an environment that encourages proactive contribution and growth.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior-level position within the engineering and project management domain. As a "Principal Design Manager," it signifies a high level of technical expertise, leadership capability, and strategic contribution. The responsibilities extend beyond pure design management to include business development and client relationship management, indicating a role that is pivotal to the firm's GTM strategy in the water sector.

Reporting Structure: The Principal Design Manager will likely report to a senior leader within the Water Division, such as a Regional Director, Practice Leader, or General Manager. They will, in turn, manage and lead technical design teams and potentially project managers or coordinators. This structure ensures alignment with broader business objectives while empowering technical leadership.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct impact on Stantec's revenue and market position within Queensland's water infrastructure sector. By successfully delivering high-profile projects, building strong client relationships, and contributing to new business wins, the Principal Design Manager directly drives revenue growth and enhances Stantec's reputation as a leading provider of water solutions. Their ability to translate client needs into profitable and impactful projects is crucial.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization & Leadership: Deepen expertise in specific areas of water/wastewater engineering and take on larger, more complex, or strategically critical projects.

• Business Development & Client Management: Progress into roles with greater commercial responsibility, potentially leading to business unit management or client executive positions.

• Mentorship & Knowledge Transfer: Develop leadership skills by mentoring junior engineers and contributing to Stantec's knowledge base and training programs.

• Cross-Disciplinary Opportunities: Leverage experience to move into broader program management roles or lead interdisciplinary infrastructure projects.

• Global Mobility: As part of a global organization, opportunities may arise for international assignments or collaborations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Principal" title signifies a career pinnacle for many technical professionals, often involving strategic input and a broad impact. The combination of technical leadership, project delivery, and business development suggests a role that offers significant professional development and a clear path toward senior management or executive positions within the firm's operations.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Stantec's Brisbane office, suggesting a professional corporate environment. Given the "Hybrid" work arrangement, this office will serve as a hub for team meetings, client interactions, collaborative design sessions, and strategic planning.

Office Location(s): South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. This location is central and accessible within a major metropolitan area, likely offering good transport links and amenities.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The hybrid model and emphasis on coordinating multidisciplinary teams suggest a workplace that encourages interaction, knowledge sharing, and collaborative problem-solving, both in-person and virtually.

• Operations Tools and Technology: Access to Stantec's suite of project management software, design and modeling tools (e.g., AutoCAD, Civil 3D, BIM software), and communication platforms will be essential for efficient workflow management and team collaboration.

• Operations Team Interaction: Regular opportunities to engage with fellow design managers, project managers, discipline engineers, and business development professionals, fostering a dynamic and supportive operational ecosystem.

Work Schedule:

• While the standard work week is full-time (likely 37.5-40 hours), the role offers genuine flexible working arrangements. This flexibility is crucial for managing complex project timelines and ensuring work-life balance, allowing for adjustments to daily schedules as needed, provided project deliverables are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role implies a modern work environment that balances the benefits of in-office collaboration with the flexibility of remote work. This is increasingly becoming standard for senior roles in professional services, requiring strong self-management and communication skills to maintain operational effectiveness.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and cover letter to assess alignment with the core requirements, particularly the 10+ years of experience, engineering qualifications (CPEng/RPEQ), and water infrastructure background.

• Technical Interview: Likely involving senior members of the Water team or Practice Leaders to delve into your technical expertise, project management methodologies, and understanding of water/wastewater systems. Expect questions on design challenges, problem-solving approaches, and project delivery strategies.

• Leadership & Business Development Interview: Discussion with hiring managers or senior leadership focusing on your leadership style, experience managing multidisciplinary teams and subcontractors, client relationship management skills, and business development acumen.

• Case Study/Presentation: You may be asked to prepare and present a case study of a significant water infrastructure project you managed, highlighting your role, challenges, solutions, and outcomes. This is a critical opportunity to showcase your process management and impact.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior executive to discuss strategic fit, cultural alignment, and long-term vision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Select Projects: Focus on 2-3 impactful water or wastewater infrastructure projects that best demonstrate your capabilities as a Principal Design Manager. Highlight projects in

Queensland if possible.

• Structure Case Studies: For each project, clearly articulate:

  • The Challenge: Client needs, technical complexities, regulatory requirements.
  • Your Role & Responsibilities: Specifically, your leadership, design management, and coordination duties.
  • The Process: How you managed multidisciplinary teams, subcontractors, design reviews, and client communications.
  • The Solution: Key design decisions and technical innovations.
  • The Outcome: Project success metrics (budget, schedule, quality), client satisfaction, and any business development contributions.

• Quantify Achievements: Use data and metrics wherever possible to demonstrate impact (e.g., % budget savings, % schedule improvement, reduction in design errors).

• Highlight Leadership & Client Engagement: Emphasize your ability to lead teams, manage stakeholders, and build strong client relationships.

• Address D&C Experience: Clearly articulate your experience with D&C or similar delivery models.

Challenge Preparation:

• Technical Scenarios: Be prepared for hypothetical scenarios related to design conflicts, client disputes, or project delays in water infrastructure projects. Outline your systematic approach to resolution.

• Leadership Scenarios: Prepare to discuss how you motivate teams, manage performance, and handle difficult stakeholder situations.

• Business Development Strategy: Think about how Stantec can further grow its water business in Queensland. Be ready to discuss market trends and potential client engagement strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a Principal Design Manager will be rigorous, evaluating technical depth, leadership maturity, and commercial awareness. A well-prepared portfolio that clearly demonstrates operational excellence in project delivery and client satisfaction is paramount. The emphasis on "systems approach" and "engineering assurance" suggests interviewers will probe for methodological rigor.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Experience with platforms like Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or similar for planning, scheduling, resource allocation, and tracking project progress. Stantec likely uses a company-standard platform.

• Design & Engineering Software: Proficiency with industry-standard CAD and BIM software (e.g., AutoCAD, Civil 3D, Revit) for design visualization and coordination. Familiarity with specialized water modeling software (e.g., WaterGEMS, InfoWorks) would be beneficial.

• Collaboration Platforms: Proficiency with tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for team communication, document sharing, and virtual meetings, essential for a hybrid work environment.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret project performance data, cost reports, and schedule variances. Familiarity with Excel for data manipulation and analysis is essential.

• Reporting Tools: Experience in generating comprehensive project status reports, technical review summaries, and client-facing progress updates.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: While not a primary sales role, an understanding of CRM principles for client relationship management is beneficial. Stantec may use a specific CRM for tracking client interactions and business development efforts.

• Document Management Systems: Familiarity with robust document control systems for managing project documentation, specifications, and drawings in a structured and accessible manner.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific software isn't listed, a Principal Design Manager in a large engineering firm will be expected to be highly proficient with standard project management, design, and collaboration tools. The ability to leverage technology for efficient project delivery and communication is a key operational requirement.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Client Focus: A strong commitment to understanding and meeting client needs, delivering valuable business solutions, and fostering long-term relationships.

• Technical Excellence: Upholding high standards in engineering design, ensuring quality, safety, and innovation in all project outputs.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive environment where multidisciplinary teams and subcontractors work together effectively towards common project goals.

• Integrity & Professionalism: Adhering to ethical standards, maintaining professional conduct, and demonstrating accountability in all dealings.

• Innovation & Problem-Solving: Encouraging creative thinking and a proactive, solution-oriented approach to overcoming project challenges.

• Sustainability: Commitment to developing environmentally responsible and sustainable water solutions, aligning with Stantec's broader mission.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively engaging with various engineering disciplines, project managers, and business development teams to ensure cohesive project execution and strategy.

• Process Review & Feedback: Encouraging open communication and feedback loops within the project team and with clients to continuously improve design and delivery processes.

• Knowledge Sharing: Facilitating the sharing of technical expertise, lessons learned, and best practices across projects and teams to enhance overall organizational capability.

📝 Enhancement Note: Stantec's values, as reflected in their company description and the role's responsibilities, emphasize a collaborative, client-centric, and technically proficient approach. This aligns with operational best practices where teamwork, communication, and a focus on delivering value are paramount.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Complex Stakeholder Expectations: Balancing the needs and requirements of diverse clients, regulatory bodies, internal teams, and subcontractors on large-scale infrastructure projects.

• Technical Complexity and Innovation: Staying abreast of evolving technologies and methodologies in water and wastewater engineering to deliver cutting-edge and sustainable solutions.

• Project Delivery Pressures: Navigating the inherent challenges of delivering major infrastructure projects on time and within budget, especially in a dynamic market.

• Business Development Integration: Effectively balancing the demands of project delivery with the strategic imperative of securing new business and client engagement in a competitive market.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Access to specialized courses and workshops in water engineering, project management, and leadership.

• Industry Conferences & Networking: Opportunities to attend industry events, stay current with trends, and build professional networks.

• Mentorship Programs: Formal and informal mentorship to gain insights from senior leaders and develop leadership competencies.

• Exposure to Diverse Projects: Working on a variety of water and wastewater projects, gaining broad experience across different types and scales of infrastructure.

• Leadership Development: Opportunities to hone leadership skills through managing teams, driving strategic initiatives, and contributing to business growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges that are typical for senior positions in large engineering consultancies, requiring a robust skillset and strategic approach. The growth opportunities are substantial, offering a clear path for career advancement within both technical and managerial streams.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Operations Strategy: "Describe your approach to managing a multidisciplinary design team on a complex water infrastructure project. How do you ensure technical synergy and alignment with project objectives?" (Focus on your process for coordination, communication, and problem-solving.)

• Client Management: "How do you build and maintain strong, long-term relationships with key utility clients? Provide an example of a time you successfully navigated a challenging client situation." (Emphasize your client-centric approach and negotiation skills.)

• Problem-Solving: "Describe a significant technical challenge you encountered on a water/wastewater project. What was your process for diagnosing the issue, developing solutions, and implementing the best course of action?" (Detail your analytical and decision-making process.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracts you to Stantec and this specific Principal Design Manager role within our Water team in Queensland?" (Research Stantec's values, recent projects, and its position in the Australian water market.)

• "How do you foster a collaborative and high-performing team culture, especially in a hybrid work environment?" (Align your answer with Stantec's collaborative values and your leadership style.)

• "How do you ensure that technical solutions not only meet client needs but also drive business value for the firm?" (Connect technical execution with commercial outcomes and business development.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Tell a Story: Structure your project presentations as compelling narratives, highlighting the problem, your strategic approach, the execution (your leadership and process), and the successful outcome.

• Focus on Your Role: Clearly articulate your specific contributions and leadership responsibilities, rather than just the project's overall success.

• Demonstrate Process: Explain how you achieved results – your methodologies for team coordination, risk management, client communication, and quality assurance.

• Quantify Impact: Back up your claims with data and metrics wherever possible.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about your projects, your decision-making processes, and your management style.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be looking for evidence of strategic thinking, robust process management, strong leadership, and a client-focused mindset. Demonstrating how you apply a systematic, operations-oriented approach to design management and project delivery will be key to success.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Principal Design Manager position:

• Submit your most recent CV and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience through the provided application link on the Stantec careers portal.

• Portfolio Preparation: Curate 2-3 key projects from your portfolio that best showcase your experience in water/wastewater infrastructure design management, team leadership, and client engagement. Prepare to discuss these in detail, focusing on your process, challenges, and quantifiable outcomes.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly highlights your 10+ years of experience, engineering qualifications (CPEng, RPEQ), experience with D&C projects, and leadership accomplishments. Use keywords from the job description.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Stantec's Water team in Australia, their recent projects in Queensland, and their company values. Understand their approach to client service and project delivery.

• Interview Practice: Practice articulating your experience and approach to common interview questions, particularly those related to technical leadership, project management, and business development. Be ready to present your portfolio case studies.

⚠️ 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.