Project Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Project Design Manager

Company: Transgrid

Location: Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Engineering / Project Management Operations

Date Posted: September 11, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage all design activities for high-voltage substations, cable systems, and transmission line projects, ensuring adherence to international best-practice design policies and standards.

• Develop and implement robust design management plans, interface management processes, and governance frameworks to ensure project success and compliance.

• Coordinate and review multidisciplinary engineering designs, including transmission lines, substations, protection systems, telecommunications, civil works, and building works.

• Provide specialist expertise and technical advice, including reports, drawings, and specifications, to internal teams and external contractors for construction and asset management.

• Manage, coach, mentor, and lead a team of Project Engineers, fostering a collaborative and high-performing design environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is heavily focused on the technical and managerial aspects of engineering design within the critical infrastructure sector. The emphasis on "high-voltage substations, cable systems, and transmission line projects" places it firmly within the specialized domain of power infrastructure engineering, requiring a deep understanding of electrical engineering principles and project lifecycle management. The "operations" aspect here refers to the operational excellence in design processes, governance, and team management, rather than traditional business operations.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Oversee the planning, coordination, and execution of multidisciplinary project design activities from concept to close-out, ensuring timely and accurate delivery.

• Develop, maintain, and enforce design management plans, interface management processes, and governance frameworks aligned with Transgrid's engineering standards.

• Coordinate and critically review engineering designs across various disciplines, including high-voltage substations, transmission lines, protection systems, telecommunications, civil works, and building works.

• Manage and leverage subject matter expert support for high-voltage substation design and equipment engineering, including leading tender evaluations and design reviews.

• Facilitate crucial engineering decisions regarding equipment selection in close collaboration with relevant engineering disciplines and stakeholders.

• Lead the resolution of technical queries, Requests for Information (RFIs), Non-Conformance Reports (NCRs), and other engineering issues that arise during procurement, construction, and commissioning phases.

• Manage feasibility studies, tender reviews, and long-lead equipment strategies to proactively support project delivery timelines and cost-effectiveness.

• Serve as the primary engineering interface between the project team, customers, contractors, consultants, and equipment suppliers, ensuring seamless communication and alignment.

• Proactively identify, manage, and escalate engineering risks, facilitating the development and implementation of effective mitigation strategies with all relevant stakeholders.

• Lead Construction Phase Support activities to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant project delivery in line with design specifications and Transgrid's operational standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical leadership, project management, and team development. The emphasis on "governance frameworks," "interface management," and "risk management" points to a structured and process-driven approach to design delivery, critical for large-scale infrastructure projects. The role requires not just technical oversight but also the ability to manage complex stakeholder relationships and drive decisions within a regulated environment.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering is a mandatory requirement. Experience:

• Demonstrated extensive experience in leading multidisciplinary engineering teams and managing the end-to-end delivery of complex infrastructure projects.

• Proven track record in design management and successful delivery of high-voltage transmission infrastructure, including substations, transmission lines, and customer connection projects.

• Practical experience in engineering design, construction, and delivery of major infrastructure projects, covering all project phases from concept to commissioning. Required Skills:

• Project Management: Proven ability to manage complex projects from initiation to closure, with a strong focus on design phases.

• High-Voltage Engineering: Deep technical understanding and practical experience in the design and application of high-voltage substations, transmission lines, and associated equipment.

• Multidisciplinary Team Leadership: Experience in leading, mentoring, and coaching diverse engineering teams, fostering collaboration and driving performance.

• Stakeholder Management: Exceptional ability to manage relationships and communicate effectively with internal teams, customers, consultants, contractors, suppliers, and regulators.

• Design Governance: Expertise in establishing and enforcing design management plans, policies, and governance frameworks for critical infrastructure.

• Technical Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to address complex engineering challenges, technical queries, and RFIs.

• Procurement & Contract Management: Experience managing design consultants, Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), and Design & Construct contractors.

Preferred Skills:

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.

• Familiarity with relevant Transgrid business systems and project management software.

• Experience managing engineering interfaces across multiple organizations and technical disciplines.

• Understanding of safety regulations and standards within the energy sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a degree in Electrical Engineering and extensive experience in high-voltage infrastructure delivery is crucial. The "10+ years" experience level implies a senior role requiring not just technical expertise but also significant leadership and strategic management capabilities. The distinction between required and preferred skills helps candidates prioritize their application focus.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a portfolio demonstrating successful management of complex, multidisciplinary infrastructure design projects, with a specific focus on high-voltage substations and transmission lines.

• Include case studies that highlight your process for developing and implementing design management plans and governance frameworks.

• Provide examples of how you have managed engineering interfaces across various organizations and technical disciplines, detailing the process and outcomes.

• Present evidence of your experience in managing design consultants, OEMs, and Design & Construct contractors, detailing the procurement and oversight processes. Process Documentation:

• Document your approach to managing the full lifecycle of engineering design, from concept development through detailed design, procurement, construction phase support, and commissioning.

• Detail your methodologies for coordinating and reviewing multidisciplinary engineering designs, including specific quality assurance steps.

• Illustrate your process for identifying, assessing, and mitigating engineering risks throughout the design and project delivery phases.

• Explain your system for managing technical queries, RFIs, and NCRs, ensuring timely and effective resolution.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Project Design Manager role, a portfolio is critical. It needs to go beyond just listing projects; it should demonstrate the candidate's process for managing design complexity, governance, and stakeholder interactions within high-voltage infrastructure. The ability to articulate these processes and show tangible results (e.g., reduced RFIs, successful tender evaluations, on-time design delivery) will be key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Given the location (Sydney, Australia), the seniority of the role (10+ years experience, Project Design Manager), and the industry (critical infrastructure/energy), a competitive salary package is expected. Based on industry benchmarks for similar roles in Sydney, the estimated annual salary range for a Project Design Manager is likely between AUD $180,000 to AUD $250,000, depending on specific experience, qualifications, and the scope of responsibilities. Benefits:

• Corporate Discounts: Access to a range of discounts across retail, utilities, and travel, providing significant cost savings.

• Novated Leasing Options: Opportunities to structure vehicle financing in a tax-efficient manner.

• Workplace Flexibility: Potential for flexible working arrangements to support work-life balance.

• Generous Parental Leave: 20 weeks of paid parental leave, supporting new parents.

• Professional Development: Access to regular and ongoing training, workplace mentoring, and support for tertiary education to foster career growth.

• Health & Wellbeing Programs: Initiatives and discounts focused on employee health and wellbeing.

• Superannuation: Standard employer contributions to superannuation (Australia's retirement savings scheme).

Working Hours:

• This is a full-time, on-site role, typically requiring 40 hours per week. While core business hours are standard, flexibility may be available to accommodate project demands and ensure effective collaboration with global or interstate stakeholders if applicable.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on data from Australian recruitment agencies specializing in engineering and infrastructure, considering Sydney's cost of living and the demand for experienced project managers in the energy sector. The benefits listed are directly from the provided text and are tailored to attract and retain skilled professionals in a competitive market.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Energy / Utilities (Transmission Infrastructure)

Company Size: Large Enterprise (Transgrid operates over 13,000 km of high-voltage transmission lines and 128 substations, indicating a significant operational footprint and employee base).

Founded: Transgrid's history dates back to the early 20th century, evolving through various state-owned entities. The current Transgrid structure was established more recently, but its legacy in powering NSW and the ACT is long-standing.

Team Structure:

• The Project Design Manager reports to the Project Delivery Manager, indicating a hierarchical structure within the project delivery division.

• The role involves leading a team of Project Engineers, suggesting a direct management responsibility.

• Close coordination with Transgrid's internal design specialists is a key aspect, implying a matrixed or collaborative structure where functional experts provide support. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: The company emphasizes "delivering safe, reliable, and sustainable energy," which inherently requires rigorous data analysis for network performance, risk assessment, and investment planning.

• Process Optimization: The role's focus on "international best-practice design policies and practices" and "design management plans" points to a commitment to structured, efficient, and optimized design processes.

• Innovation and Transformation: Transgrid is actively "driving innovation and transformation," suggesting an environment that encourages new approaches to infrastructure development and asset management.

Company Website: https://www.transgrid.com.au/

📝 Enhancement Note: Transgrid's position as a state-significant infrastructure provider means its culture is likely to be formal, safety-conscious, and focused on long-term reliability and regulatory compliance. The emphasis on "Leadership Principles — Courage, Care, Clarity, and Connection" and "Values: Safety, Achievement, Integrity, and Service" provides insight into expected behaviors and operational priorities.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior-level position within the engineering and project management domain, specifically focused on the design phase of major infrastructure projects. It sits at a management level, requiring a blend of technical depth, strategic oversight, and people leadership.

Reporting Structure: The Project Design Manager reports directly to the Project Delivery Manager. This indicates a clear line of accountability within the project delivery framework. The role also manages a team of Project Engineers, providing direct reports and leadership.

Operations Impact: The Project Design Manager's impact is fundamental to the success of Transgrid's state-significant infrastructure programs. Effective design management ensures that projects are technically sound, cost-effective, safe to build and operate, and meet the long-term energy needs of NSW and the ACT. This role directly influences project timelines, budgets, and the ultimate reliability and sustainability of the energy grid.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to progress to higher management roles within Project Delivery, such as Project Director or Head of Design, overseeing larger portfolios or strategic initiatives.

• Specialization Development: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific areas of high-voltage engineering or complex project management through advanced training, certifications, or leading specialized project streams.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Potential to move into related areas such as Asset Management, Strategy, or Business Development within the energy sector, leveraging their deep understanding of infrastructure design and delivery.

• Mentorship and Training: As a leader, opportunities to mentor junior engineers and contribute to Transgrid's internal training and development programs, building future leaders.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role is positioned as a critical leadership function within Transgrid's project delivery arm. The growth opportunities are typical for senior engineering managers in large infrastructure organizations, focusing on expanding scope, deepening expertise, or moving into broader strategic leadership roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role, implying a professional office environment within Transgrid's facilities in Sydney. The description emphasizes collaboration with internal design specialists and external parties, suggesting a dynamic office setting.

Office Location(s): Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. This location offers access to a major metropolitan hub with extensive transport links and amenities.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role requires close interaction with a team of Project Engineers, design specialists, and potentially project delivery managers, fostering a collaborative workspace.

• Tools and Technology: Access to Transgrid's business systems and likely advanced engineering design and project management software will be provided.

• Team Interaction: Frequent opportunities for direct interaction with colleagues, stakeholders, and potentially site visits to construction or operational facilities.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week is expected, with potential for extended hours or flexible arrangements to meet critical project deadlines or address urgent engineering issues. The emphasis on "delivery pace" suggests an environment that values efficiency and responsiveness.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "on-site" requirement is standard for roles involving direct team management and critical infrastructure oversight. The Sydney location is a significant factor for potential candidates considering relocation or local employment.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

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

• Technical Interview: Expect to meet with the Project Delivery Manager and potentially senior engineering specialists to discuss your technical expertise in high-voltage design, project management methodologies, and stakeholder engagement. Be prepared to discuss specific projects from your portfolio.

• Team/Leadership Interview: An interview focused on your leadership style, team management experience, and how you foster collaboration and mentorship. This may involve situational questions related to managing engineering teams and resolving conflicts.

• Case Study/Presentation: You might be asked to prepare a presentation on a past complex design project, detailing challenges, your approach, key decisions, and outcomes. This is where your portfolio will be crucial.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a more senior leader (e.g., Head of Engineering or Project Delivery) to assess cultural fit, strategic thinking, and overall suitability for the role and Transgrid's leadership principles.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Project Selection: Choose 3-4 complex high-voltage infrastructure projects (substations, transmission lines) that best showcase your design management, leadership, and problem-solving skills.

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each project, clearly outline:

  • The project's objectives and scope.
  • Your specific role and responsibilities.
  • Key design challenges encountered (technical, stakeholder, regulatory).
  • Your strategic approach to managing design, governance, and interfaces.
  • How you led your team and managed external partners (consultants, contractors).
  • Quantifiable outcomes and lessons learned (e.g., cost savings, schedule adherence, risk mitigation success).

• Highlight Processes: Emphasize your systematic approach to design management, risk assessment, stakeholder communication, and team leadership.

• Visuals: Use diagrams, charts, and relevant technical drawings (redacted for confidentiality) to illustrate complex designs or processes.

• Conciseness: Be prepared to present your portfolio efficiently, focusing on the most impactful aspects relevant to the role.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Governance Scenarios: Be ready to discuss how you would establish or improve design governance for a new high-voltage project.

• Stakeholder Conflict Resolution: Prepare for questions on how you would handle disagreements between technical teams, contractors, or regulatory bodies regarding design specifications.

• Risk Mitigation: Discuss your process for identifying and mitigating critical design risks that could impact project delivery or operational safety.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for such a senior engineering management role will be rigorous. Candidates should prepare to demonstrate not only technical competence but also strong leadership, strategic thinking, and a systematic approach to project design and delivery. A well-curated portfolio is essential for showcasing practical experience and process capabilities.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Microsoft Office Suite: Standard proficiency expected for reporting, documentation, and communication.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with industry-standard project management tools (e.g., MS Project, Primavera P6) for planning, scheduling, and tracking design activities.

• CAD/Design Software: While not directly designing, understanding the outputs and capabilities of software like AutoCAD, Revit, or specialized electrical design packages (e.g., ETAP, PSS/E) is beneficial for reviewing designs.

• Document Management Systems: Experience with systems for storing, organizing, and controlling project documentation and design revisions.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Reporting Tools: Ability to interpret and generate reports from project management and engineering databases.

• Data Analysis: Skills in analyzing project data to identify trends, risks, and areas for process improvement.

CRM & Automation:

• Business Systems: Proficiency in "relevant Transgrid business systems" as mentioned in the requirements. This could include ERP systems, asset management databases, or specialized utility management platforms.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific software isn't listed beyond Microsoft Office, candidates should infer the need for proficiency in standard engineering design review tools and robust project management platforms. The mention of "relevant Transgrid business systems" is a prompt for candidates to research Transgrid's technology landscape if possible, or to highlight their adaptability to new systems.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety: Paramount importance in the energy sector. Expect a culture that prioritizes safe design practices, risk assessment, and adherence to safety protocols in all engineering activities.

• Achievement: A results-oriented culture focused on successfully delivering complex, state-significant infrastructure projects on time, within budget, and to high technical standards.

• Integrity: Upholding high ethical standards, transparency in dealings with stakeholders, and accountability for design decisions and project outcomes.

• Service: Commitment to serving the energy needs of millions of Australians by ensuring reliable, sustainable, and efficient energy delivery through robust infrastructure.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role requires extensive collaboration with various internal engineering disciplines (protection, telecommunications, civil) and external partners (contractors, consultants, suppliers).

• Process-Driven: A culture that values structured processes, clear communication channels, and adherence to established governance frameworks.

• Mentorship and Knowledge Sharing: Encouragement of experienced leaders like the Project Design Manager to mentor junior staff and share expertise to build internal capability.

• Accountability and Clarity: Emphasis on clear roles, responsibilities, and decision-making processes, aligned with Transgrid's "Clarity" leadership principle.

📝 Enhancement Note: Transgrid's explicitly stated values and leadership principles are key indicators of its culture. Candidates should demonstrate how their professional approach aligns with these, particularly in prioritizing safety, driving for achievement, acting with integrity, and providing excellent service through efficient and effective design management.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Technical Rigor with Delivery Pace: A key challenge will be ensuring that design specifications are technically sound and compliant while also meeting aggressive project timelines and commercial pressures.

• Managing Complex Stakeholder Expectations: Effectively navigating the diverse interests and requirements of customers, contractors, regulators, and internal specialists presents a significant challenge requiring strong communication and negotiation skills.

• Resolving Technical Ambiguities: Addressing complex engineering queries, RFIs, and NCRs on large-scale projects can be challenging, requiring deep technical knowledge and the ability to facilitate consensus.

• Adapting to Evolving Energy Technologies: The energy sector is rapidly changing. Staying abreast of new technologies, materials, and design methodologies for high-voltage infrastructure will be an ongoing challenge.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Project Management Certifications: Support for pursuing or maintaining certifications relevant to large-scale infrastructure project management.

• Specialized High-Voltage Engineering Training: Access to courses and workshops focused on new technologies, equipment, and design standards in the high-voltage domain.

• Leadership Development Programs: Transgrid offers opportunities for leaders to enhance their management, coaching, and strategic thinking skills.

• Industry Conferences and Forums: Participation in industry events to network, learn about best practices, and stay current with trends in power transmission and distribution.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to managing large, complex infrastructure projects in a dynamic industry. The growth opportunities are designed to support individuals in overcoming these challenges while advancing their careers within Transgrid or the broader energy sector.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex high-voltage substation design project you managed. What were the primary design challenges, and how did you lead your team and stakeholders to overcome them?" (Focus on process, leadership, and outcomes.)

• "How do you ensure adherence to design governance and engineering standards when managing multiple external design partners and internal specialists?" (Prepare to discuss your framework for quality assurance and compliance.)

• "Walk me through your process for managing engineering risks throughout the design lifecycle of a major infrastructure project. Provide an example of a significant risk you identified and how you mitigated it." (Highlight your proactive risk management approach.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "How do Transgrid's values of Safety, Achievement, Integrity, and Service align with your personal leadership philosophy and professional approach?" (Be ready to provide specific examples.)

• "Based on your understanding of Transgrid, how would you foster a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement within your design team and with cross-functional partners?" (Connect to Transgrid's Leadership Principles.)

• "How do you measure the success of your design management function and its impact on overall project delivery and Transgrid's strategic objectives?" (Focus on metrics and ROI.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Concise Overview: Begin with a high-level summary of your most impactful projects.

• Deep Dive into 1-2 Key Projects: Select projects that best demonstrate your ability to manage complex high-voltage design, lead multidisciplinary teams, and navigate stakeholder challenges.

• Process Focus: Clearly articulate your methodologies for design management, risk assessment, and interface coordination. Use visual aids where appropriate.

• Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use data and metrics to demonstrate the positive impact of your work (e.g., schedule adherence, cost savings, reduction in design queries).

• Tailor to Transgrid: Connect your experience and methodologies to Transgrid's known projects, challenges, or stated objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating technical leadership, project management expertise, and alignment with Transgrid's specific values and operational context. Candidates must be ready to articulate their processes and showcase tangible results through their portfolio.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Project Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the Transgrid careers portal via the provided URL.

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight experience in high-voltage infrastructure, multidisciplinary design management, project delivery, and leadership roles, using keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a selection of your most relevant projects that showcase your expertise in design management, stakeholder engagement, and technical problem-solving for high-voltage infrastructure. Ensure it demonstrates your process and quantifiable achievements.

• Research Transgrid: Familiarize yourself with Transgrid's current projects, strategic goals, and company culture. Understand their role in the Australian energy market and their commitment to safety and sustainability.

• Practice Your Interview Responses: Prepare to articulate your experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions, and be ready to present your portfolio and discuss your strategic approach to design management challenges.

⚠️ 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.