Project Design Manager - Dublin

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Project Design Manager

Company: Kirby Group Engineering

Location: Dublin, Ireland

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Engineering Project Management / Design Management

Date Posted: August 19, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage multi-disciplinary engineering design teams for large-scale, high-value projects, with a strong emphasis on data center and mission-critical infrastructure.

• Drive project execution to ensure delivery on time, within budget, and to stringent quality and safety standards, aligning with Kirby Group Engineering's reputation for excellence.

• Foster a collaborative and performance-focused environment, leveraging Kirby's career development programs to enhance leadership capabilities and team performance.

• Manage contract negotiations and identify value-added opportunities without compromising safety or quality, demonstrating strong commercial acumen.

• Oversee advanced engineering and construction processes, ensuring compliance with local building codes, regulations, and jurisdictional standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a senior management opportunity within Kirby Group Engineering, focusing on design and project delivery for complex, large-scale infrastructure projects, particularly in the data center sector. The emphasis on "leading edge" projects, a significant portfolio of works, and career development programs indicates a strategic role with substantial impact and growth potential for an experienced engineering leader.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor multi-functional engineering teams, providing technical guidance and fostering a culture of continuous improvement in advanced engineering and construction methodologies for data center environments.

• Oversee the entire design lifecycle for large-scale projects (>$100M per project), managing Design & Build, and Design/Bid/Build contract types.

• Develop and implement robust project management strategies to ensure timely delivery, cost control, and adherence to the highest quality and safety standards.

• Conduct thorough contract negotiations, identifying opportunities for value engineering and cost optimization while upholding safety and quality deliverables.

• Collaborate effectively with technical and non-technical stakeholders, including clients, internal teams, and regulatory bodies, in a fast-paced environment.

• Ensure comprehensive understanding and application of local building codes, regulations, and jurisdictional standards across all project designs.

• Prepare and present detailed project proposals, reports, and updates using MS Office Suite, demonstrating strong communication and presentation skills.

• Manage the technical aspects of design and/or commissioning phases for data center and mission-critical facilities, leveraging 5-10 years of direct experience in these areas.

• Provide expert oversight of advanced electrical, mechanical, security/monitoring, and fire detection/suppression systems design and integration.

• Maintain a comprehensive knowledge of standard practices, terms, principles, and contracts within the design and construction industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical leadership, project management, and commercial negotiation, specifically within the high-stakes data center sector. The expectation for large-scale project experience (>$100M) and direct design/commissioning experience (5-10 years) positions this as a senior role requiring significant domain expertise and proven delivery capability.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Project Management, or a related technical field, OR equivalent practical experience. Experience:

• Minimum of 5-10 years of direct design and/or commissioning experience in data centers/mission-critical facilities.

• Proven track record of managing large-scale projects (>$100M per project) involving Design & Build, and Design/Bid/Build delivery models.

• Experience managing cross-functional and/or cross-team projects. Required Skills:

• Excellent communication, organization, and leadership skills.

• High proficiency in commercial and industrial architecture and engineering, with a primary focus on data center design.

• Ability to work effectively with diverse technical and non-technical groups in a fast-paced environment.

• Strong work ethic, demonstrating integrity, methodical approach, and attention to detail.

• Ability to lead teams in advanced engineering and construction processes relevant to large data center environments.

• Proficient contract negotiation skills with a solid understanding of value-added ideas without compromising safety and quality.

• Proven ability to drive results in a fast-paced environment, with a forward-looking and open mindset.

• Knowledge of local building codes, regulations, and jurisdictional standards.

• Proficient in MS Office Suite for preparation and presentation.

• Computer literacy in AutoCAD and Revit/Navisworks.

• Ability to travel domestically and internationally as required.

• Comprehensive understanding of advanced electrical, mechanical, security/monitoring, and fire detection/suppression systems.

• Strong knowledge of standard practices in the design and construction industry.

• General knowledge of design and construction terms, principles, and contracts. Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with basic building code requirements.

• Experience with project/technical program management.

• Conversational English proficiency (in addition to written and reading).

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize a deep technical background in data center design and engineering, coupled with robust project management and leadership capabilities. The specific mention of AutoCAD, Revit, and Navisworks points to a need for hands-on technical proficiency, while the "10+" years of experience (derived from AI analysis) suggests a senior-level candidate expected to operate with significant autonomy and strategic oversight.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate successful management of large-scale (>$100M) design and build projects, showcasing end-to-end project lifecycle oversight.

• Provide case studies illustrating expertise in data center or mission-critical facility design, highlighting complex electrical, mechanical, and security system integration.

• Showcase examples of contract negotiation strategies and their successful outcomes in terms of value addition and risk mitigation.

• Present documentation of how teams were led through advanced engineering processes, emphasizing efficiency and quality improvements.

• Include evidence of compliance with local building codes and jurisdictional standards in previous projects. Process Documentation:

• Workflow design and optimization for complex engineering projects, with a focus on streamlining the design and construction phases.

• Implementation and automation methods for project management tools and design software (e.g., Revit, Navisworks) to enhance efficiency and collaboration.

• Measurement and performance analysis of project delivery, demonstrating how metrics like budget adherence, schedule compliance, and quality assurance were tracked and improved.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Project Design Manager role, a portfolio is crucial. It should not just list past projects but detail the candidate's specific role, the challenges faced, the methodologies employed (especially in design and construction processes), and the quantifiable outcomes achieved. This includes demonstrating leadership in complex technical environments and successful contract management.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for a Project Design Manager with 10+ years of experience in Dublin, Ireland, managing large-scale engineering projects (>$100M) within the data center sector, the estimated salary range is €90,000 - €130,000 per annum. This estimate accounts for the high demand for specialized skills in mission-critical infrastructure, the seniority of the role, and the cost of living in Dublin. Benefits:

• Career Development Programmes: Structured opportunities for leadership skill enhancement and career progression within Kirby Group Engineering.

• Competitive Package: An excellent overall compensation package, with room for negotiation, reflecting the candidate's experience and the strategic importance of the role.

• Project Portfolio: Access to a considerable portfolio of works for the next 5+ years, offering long-term project stability and engagement.

• Collaborative Team Environment: Opportunity to work with a vibrant, agile, and multi-functional team.

• Professional Growth: Chance to work on "leading edge" engineering projects and develop expertise in a growing sector. Working Hours:

• Standard working hours are approximately 40 hours per week, with the expectation of flexibility to meet project demands and deadlines in a fast-paced construction and engineering environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is derived from research on similar Project Design Manager roles in Dublin, considering the specified experience level (10+ years) and the specialized industry (data centers/mission-critical). The benefits listed are directly extracted from the job description, highlighting Kirby Group's commitment to employee development and project stability.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering Services, Construction, Energy, Technology Infrastructure (Data Centers, Pharmaceuticals, Power Transmission).

Company Size: Kirby Group Engineering is a significant player, indicated by its international operations across Ireland, the UK, Europe, and South Africa, and its focus on "blue chip" clients. This suggests a large organization with established processes and a substantial workforce.

Founded: Kirby Group has a history that implies stability and growth, enabling it to secure large, multi-year projects.

Team Structure:

• The Project Design Manager will lead "multi-functional teams," suggesting a collaborative structure involving various engineering disciplines (electrical, mechanical, structural, etc.), project managers, and potentially site personnel.

• Reporting lines are likely to be to senior project directors or divisional heads, with direct management of design engineers and project leads.

• Cross-functional collaboration is a core expectation, essential for integrating diverse technical inputs and ensuring project alignment. Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making, evident in the emphasis on quality standards, budget adherence, and performance metrics.

• Agile and collaborative project execution, fostering innovation and efficient problem-solving.

• Performance-focused culture, aiming for the successful delivery of complex engineering projects.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Kirby Group Engineering positions itself as a leading international contractor known for high-value engineering services. Its culture is described as innovative, collaborative, and performance-focused, with a commitment to talent development. The company's focus on sectors like pharmaceuticals and data centers means a strong emphasis on precision, compliance, and advanced technical solutions.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is at a senior management level, designated for experienced professionals with a deep understanding of engineering design, project execution, and team leadership within complex infrastructure projects. It implies significant responsibility for project outcomes and team performance.

Reporting Structure: The Project Design Manager will likely report to a Director of Engineering, a Senior Project Director, or a similar executive-level position within Kirby Group Engineering. They will, in turn, manage teams of design engineers and potentially other project management staff.

Operations Impact: The Project Design Manager's impact is critical to the success of large-scale projects, directly influencing project profitability, client satisfaction, safety records, and the company's reputation. Effective design management ensures projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards, which is paramount for Kirby's "blue chip" clientele.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to advance into roles such as Director of Engineering, Head of Design, or Senior Project Director, overseeing larger portfolios and strategic initiatives.

• Specialization Development: Deepen expertise in specific high-demand sectors like data centers or renewable energy infrastructure.

• Mentorship: Opportunity to mentor and develop junior engineers and project managers, contributing to Kirby's talent pipeline.

• International Exposure: Potential for international assignments or oversight of global projects, given Kirby's operational footprint.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role is clearly designed for individuals looking to leverage extensive experience into a leadership position with significant impact. Kirby's emphasis on career development programs suggests a structured path for growth, moving beyond technical management to broader strategic responsibilities within the organization.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is primarily on-site, requiring the Project Design Manager to be present at project locations or within Kirby Group Engineering's offices to effectively manage teams and oversee project activities.

Office Location(s): The primary location is Dublin, Ireland. However, the role involves domestic and international travel, indicating potential site visits or collaboration across Kirby's various operational regions.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role necessitates working closely with diverse teams, fostering a dynamic and interactive workspace.

• Tools and Technology: Access to essential design and project management software (AutoCAD, Revit, Navisworks, MS Office Suite) is a given, supporting efficient workflow and data management.

• Team Interaction: Frequent interaction with engineering teams, project stakeholders, and potentially clients, requiring strong interpersonal and communication skills.

Work Schedule: While standard hours are around 40 per week, the demands of large-scale engineering projects, especially in fast-paced environments like data centers, often require flexibility and a willingness to work beyond typical hours to meet critical deadlines and ensure project success.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature of this role is typical for senior project management positions in construction and engineering, where direct oversight, team leadership, and site coordination are paramount. The international travel requirement underscores the global reach of Kirby Group Engineering and the potential for diverse project experiences.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and application to assess qualifications, experience (especially in data centers and large-scale projects), and technical skills (AutoCAD, Revit, Navisworks).

• Technical Interview: In-depth discussion focusing on engineering knowledge, design methodologies, contract negotiation experience, and understanding of electrical/mechanical/fire systems. Candidates may be asked to elaborate on past project challenges and solutions.

• Leadership & Management Interview: Assessment of leadership style, team management capabilities, communication skills, and ability to work in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment. Behavioral questions will likely be used.

• Case Study/Portfolio Review: Presentation of a relevant project from their portfolio, detailing their role, challenges, solutions, and outcomes. This is a key opportunity to demonstrate impact and strategic thinking.

• Final Interview: Likely with senior leadership to discuss cultural fit, long-term career aspirations, and overall alignment with Kirby Group Engineering's vision. Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate a portfolio that prominently features large-scale data center or mission-critical projects, showcasing your direct involvement from design through to commissioning.

• For each project, clearly outline the scope, your specific responsibilities, the key technical challenges encountered, the design and management strategies employed, and the quantifiable results (e.g., budget savings, schedule improvements, quality enhancements).

• Be prepared to discuss your contract negotiation skills, highlighting how you achieved value-added outcomes without compromising safety or quality.

• Demonstrate your ability to lead and mentor engineering teams, providing examples of how you fostered collaboration and drove performance.

• Ensure your portfolio reflects proficiency in essential tools like AutoCAD, Revit, and Navisworks, and that you can articulate how these tools were utilized to enhance project delivery. Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss how you would approach the design and management of a complex data center project, including risk assessment, stakeholder management, and resource allocation.

• Prepare to answer questions about managing teams under pressure and resolving conflicts within cross-functional environments.

• Practice articulating your understanding of relevant building codes and industry standards, and how you ensure compliance.

• Develop concise explanations of your experience with Design & Build and Design/Bid/Build project types.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely delve deeply into both technical expertise and leadership capabilities. A strong portfolio that quantifies achievements and demonstrates a strategic approach to complex engineering projects will be critical for success. The emphasis on data centers and large-scale projects means candidates should prepare specific examples related to these areas.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• AutoCAD: For 2D drafting and design, essential for technical drawings and schematics.

• Revit: For Building Information Modeling (BIM), enabling 3D design, clash detection, and integrated project data management.

• Navisworks: For project review, simulation, and clash detection across multiple disciplines, crucial for large-scale project coordination and visualization.

• MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook): For comprehensive documentation, reporting, presentations, and communication.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly listed, expect to utilize project management software with reporting capabilities for budget tracking, schedule adherence, and performance analysis. This could include tools integrated within BIM platforms or standalone project management solutions.

• Data analysis skills will be applied to review project performance metrics, identify trends, and inform decision-making. CRM & Automation:

• CRM: Not directly relevant for the Project Design Manager role but may be used by sales or client relationship teams that the Project Design Manager interacts with.

• Automation Tools: Potential use of project management or BIM automation features to streamline workflows, such as automated drawing generation or clash detection reporting.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with AutoCAD, Revit, and Navisworks is explicitly required and central to the role's technical demands. The ability to leverage these tools for complex project coordination, clash detection, and integrated design is paramount. Familiarity with project management software that supports robust reporting is also expected.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity and Ethics: A strong emphasis on honesty, ethical conduct, and maintaining high standards in all dealings, especially in contract negotiation and project delivery.

• Quality and Safety: An unwavering commitment to delivering projects that meet rigorous quality standards and prioritize the safety of all personnel and stakeholders.

• Collaboration and Teamwork: Fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where diverse teams work together effectively to achieve common project goals.

• Innovation and Continuous Improvement: Encouraging new ideas, embracing cutting-edge technologies, and constantly seeking ways to optimize processes and project outcomes.

• Performance and Accountability: Driving for results, taking ownership of responsibilities, and being accountable for project success and individual contributions.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional integration is key, requiring seamless communication and coordination between design teams, construction teams, procurement, and client representatives.

• A proactive approach to problem-solving, involving open dialogue and collaborative decision-making to address challenges swiftly.

• Emphasis on knowledge sharing and best practice dissemination across teams to elevate overall project delivery capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: Kirby Group Engineering values a performance-driven culture focused on high-quality, safe, and collaborative project delivery. Candidates should demonstrate an understanding of these values and how they translate into practical application within a demanding engineering environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Large-Scale, Complex Projects: Overseeing multi-$100M projects with intricate interdependencies and tight deadlines, requiring exceptional organizational and problem-solving skills.

• Balancing Cost, Quality, and Schedule: Navigating the inherent trade-offs between budget constraints, quality requirements, and project timelines, particularly in the demanding data center sector.

• Leading Diverse, Multi-functional Teams: Effectively managing and motivating teams with varied expertise and working styles to ensure cohesive project execution.

• Adapting to Evolving Technologies: Staying abreast of advancements in design software (BIM, etc.) and construction technologies to maintain a competitive edge.

• International Travel Demands: Balancing on-site responsibilities with the requirement for domestic and international travel.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Leadership Development: Participation in Kirby's Career Development Programmes to enhance leadership capabilities, strategic thinking, and executive presence.

• Technical Specialization: Deepening expertise in specific areas of data center design and mission-critical infrastructure through project involvement and continuous learning.

• Industry Best Practices: Gaining exposure to cutting-edge engineering and construction methodologies through "leading edge" projects.

• Mentorship Programs: Opportunities to be mentored by senior leaders or to mentor emerging talent within the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant challenges that are directly tied to opportunities for professional growth. The company's commitment to developing talent means that overcoming these challenges will be supported by structured learning and development initiatives.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a large-scale (>$100M) data center project you managed from design through to completion. What were the primary challenges, how did you lead your team to overcome them, and what was the ultimate outcome?" (Focus on your leadership, problem-solving, and impact.)

• "How do you approach contract negotiation to ensure value addition without compromising safety or quality? Provide a specific example." (Demonstrate commercial acumen and risk management.)

• "How do you ensure effective communication and collaboration across multi-functional teams in a fast-paced environment, especially when dealing with complex technical requirements?" (Highlight your communication and team management skills.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Kirby Group Engineering and our work in the data center sector? How do your skills and experience align with our reputation for delivering 'leading edge' projects?" (Showcase your research and understanding of the company's mission.)

• "Kirby emphasizes a performance-focused and collaborative culture. How have you fostered these values in previous teams you've led?" (Provide examples of your leadership style and cultural contribution.)

• "How do you approach ensuring compliance with local building codes and jurisdictional standards in your projects, especially when working internationally?" (Demonstrate your attention to detail and regulatory awareness.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select 2-3 key projects that best exemplify your experience with large-scale data centers, complex engineering systems, and successful contract management.

• For each project, use a clear structure: Project Overview, Your Role & Responsibilities, Key Challenges, Design/Management Strategies, Quantifiable Outcomes (budget, schedule, quality, safety), and Lessons Learned.

• Be prepared to walk through specific drawings or models (if applicable) to illustrate technical proficiency and design coordination.

• Clearly articulate the ROI or value-added aspects of your contributions, linking them back to client satisfaction and company profitability.

• Practice your presentation to ensure it is concise, impactful, and within any allocated time limits.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not only technical expertise in data center design but also robust leadership, project management, and commercial negotiation skills. Candidates should be ready to provide detailed, quantifiable examples from their experience, aligning their approach with Kirby Group's stated values and project delivery expectations.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Project Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided Greenhouse link, ensuring all requested fields are completed accurately.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your experience with large-scale projects (>$100M), specific expertise in data center design and mission-critical infrastructure, and proficiency with AutoCAD, Revit, and Navisworks. Quantify achievements wherever possible.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a selection of your most relevant projects, focusing on detailed case studies that showcase your leadership, problem-solving, and technical contributions. Be ready to present this portfolio effectively.

• Research Kirby Group Engineering: Understand their project portfolio, company values, and recent news to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural fit during interviews.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare to answer questions related to technical challenges, team leadership, contract negotiation, and your approach to project management, using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.