Roads & Highways Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Roads & Highways Design Manager

Company: AECOM

Location: Perth, Western Australia, Australia

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Engineering / Transportation Operations

Date Posted: May 21, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the end-to-end design management and delivery of significant highway and road infrastructure projects within Western Australia and ANZ.

• Oversee and coordinate multidisciplinary design teams, ensuring seamless collaboration across highways, drainage, pavements, structures, utilities, traffic, and Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) disciplines.

• Take full accountability for project scope, program adherence, commercial performance, technical execution, and client satisfaction outcomes.

• Drive strategic business development initiatives, including identifying and pursuing future workwinning opportunities within the WA market.

• Foster a culture of continuous improvement and capability growth within the Highways business through leadership, mentorship, and technical guidance.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a senior-level Design Manager within AECOM's Transportation business line, focusing on major highway and road infrastructure. The emphasis on "delivery of major transport infrastructure projects" and "shaping the future of transport connectivity" indicates a strategic and impactful position. The requirement to manage multidisciplinary teams and act as a client interface suggests a strong operations and project management focus.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the comprehensive design management and successful delivery of major highway and road infrastructure projects across Western Australia and the wider ANZ region.

• Effectively manage and coordinate diverse, multidisciplinary design teams, encompassing specialists in highways, drainage, pavements, structures, utilities, traffic, and ITS.

• Assume full responsibility for project scope definition, program scheduling, commercial viability, rigorous technical delivery, and achieving client objectives.

• Orchestrate project delivery coordination between Perth, interstate, and global AECOM teams to ensure the successful execution of complex infrastructure programs.

• Serve as a key, trusted client interface, cultivating robust relationships with Main Roads WA and other critical transport infrastructure stakeholders.

• Champion collaborative efforts across design and delivery teams to guarantee the development of high-quality, innovative, and constructable project outcomes.

• Provide strategic leadership, mentorship, and essential technical guidance to project teams, actively supporting the growth of capabilities within the Highways business unit.

• Contribute significantly to business development efforts, strategic pursuit activities, and the acquisition of future project opportunities within the Western Australian market.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical leadership, project execution, client relationship management, and business development. The emphasis on "accountability for project scope, programme, commercial performance, technical delivery and client outcomes" clearly defines the operational oversight expected from this role. "Drive collaboration" and "support capability growth" point towards team management and operational efficiency aspects.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Civil or related discipline) or equivalent.

Experience:

• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in managing the design and delivery of complex highway or major transport infrastructure projects.

• Demonstrated success in managing multidisciplinary design teams on large-scale road and highway projects.

• Proven track record of delivering projects for, or in close collaboration with, transport authorities such as Main Roads WA.

• Deep understanding of highways design standards, established project delivery frameworks, and infrastructure governance requirements.

• Substantial experience in managing project scope, program timelines, identifying and mitigating risks, overseeing commercial performance, and ensuring technical coordination.

• Exceptional stakeholder engagement and client management capabilities, with a proven ability to build and maintain strong relationships.

Required Skills:

• Design Management & Project Leadership

• Multidisciplinary Team Coordination

• Highways Design Standards & Best Practices

• Client Relationship Management & Stakeholder Engagement

• Project Scope, Schedule, and Budget Control

• Technical Delivery Oversight

• Risk Identification and Mitigation

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with Main Roads WA project delivery frameworks.

• Familiarity with Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) and traffic management design principles.

• Advanced knowledge of infrastructure governance and compliance.

• Business Development and Strategic Pursuit experience in the transport sector.

• Mentoring and professional development of engineering staff.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "10+" years of experience and the emphasis on managing multidisciplinary teams and client relationships indicate a senior operational leadership role. The specific mention of "Main Roads WA" and "highways design standards" points to specialized operational knowledge within the Australian transport sector.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Case studies demonstrating successful end-to-end management of major highway or road infrastructure design projects, highlighting scope, timeline, and budget control.

• Examples of multidisciplinary team leadership, showcasing coordination strategies and conflict resolution within complex design environments.

• Documentation illustrating client engagement and stakeholder management approaches, with evidence of successful outcomes and relationship building.

• Evidence of contributions to business development, including strategy formulation and pursuit of new project opportunities.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow design and optimization strategies for multidisciplinary design processes in transport infrastructure.

• Implementation and automation methods for enhancing design delivery efficiency and quality.

• Metrics and performance analysis frameworks used to track and report on project progress, technical delivery, and commercial outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role, a portfolio demonstrating project lifecycle management, team leadership, and client engagement is crucial. The focus on "project scope, programme, commercial performance, technical delivery" necessitates portfolio pieces that quantify these aspects, such as delivery timelines, budget adherence, and client satisfaction metrics.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

The estimated salary range for a Roads & Highways Design Manager in Perth, Western Australia, with 10+ years of experience, typically falls between AUD $160,000 and AUD $220,000 per annum. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for senior engineering management roles in major infrastructure projects within Australia, considering the specific demands of leading complex design work for government bodies like Main Roads WA.

Benefits:

• Flexible work arrangements, including alternative start/finish times, part-time, job-sharing, and hybrid work options.

• Opportunity to purchase up to 6 weeks of additional annual leave per year.

• Volunteer and representation leave provided.

• Flex public holidays – allowing employees to swap holidays for those that better suit their needs.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are approximately 40 hours per week.

• The role offers flexibility with alternative start/finish times and hybrid work options, allowing for a balance between office-based responsibilities and remote work.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary ranges for senior roles in specialized engineering fields like highways design, especially in major cities like Perth, are competitive. The provided range reflects the leadership responsibilities, technical expertise, and project scale typically associated with this position. The benefits package emphasizes work-life balance and employee well-being, common for large engineering consultancies.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Transportation Infrastructure Consulting (Engineering, Design, Program Management). AECOM operates within the broader engineering and construction services sector, with a significant focus on transport infrastructure. This involves planning, designing, and managing complex projects for public and private clients.

Company Size: AECOM is a Fortune 500 company, indicating a large, global organization with a substantial employee base and significant project portfolio. This size offers resources, stability, and opportunities for diverse project involvement.

Founded: AECOM's history dates back to 1910. This long-standing presence signifies deep industry expertise, established processes, and a robust global network.

Team Structure:

• The Highways team in Perth is a growing unit, actively involved in a pipeline of major transport infrastructure projects.

• This role is part of the Transportation business line, likely within a larger Western Australia or ANZ operations group.

• The Design Manager will manage multidisciplinary design teams, implying cross-functional collaboration with specialists in various engineering fields.

Methodology:

• Emphasis on collaborative design and delivery, leveraging both local knowledge and global capabilities.

• Focus on data-driven decision-making and innovative solutions for transport challenges.

• Commitment to sustainable and advanced transportation systems.

• Adherence to rigorous project delivery frameworks and client governance requirements.

Company Website: https://aecom.com/au/

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's description highlights its commitment to diversity, inclusion, and employee well-being. The "Fortune 500" status and global presence are key indicators of organizational scale and stability. The "transportation experts leverage local knowledge and global capability" points to a hybrid operational model combining regional expertise with worldwide resources.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior-level position within the operations and project delivery function of AECOM's Transportation business. It requires significant experience in managing complex engineering projects, leading multidisciplinary teams, and interfacing with key clients. The scope extends beyond pure technical design to encompass commercial, program, and strategic business aspects.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will likely report to a senior leader within the AECOM WA or ANZ Transportation division, such as a Director of Highways or a General Manager of Operations. They will, in turn, manage and mentor project-specific design teams.

Operations Impact: The role directly impacts AECOM's ability to successfully deliver major transport infrastructure projects, contributing to revenue generation, client satisfaction, and the company's reputation. Effective design management is critical for project profitability, timely completion, and adherence to technical specifications, all of which are key operational metrics.

Growth Opportunities:

• Advancement to broader Project Director or Program Management roles, overseeing larger and more complex infrastructure portfolios.

• Specialization in specific areas of transport infrastructure or taking on leadership roles within other AECOM business lines (e.g., Buildings, Water).

• Opportunities for international project involvement or leadership roles within AECOM's global network.

• Development into strategic client relationship management or business development leadership positions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "10+ years" experience and the "Manager" title firmly place this role at a senior operational leadership level. The potential for growth into Program Director or Business Development roles indicates a clear career progression path within AECOM's infrastructure consulting framework.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: AECOM has a hybrid work model, indicating a mix of office-based collaboration and remote work. The office environment is likely professional, with modern facilities to support design and project management activities.

Office Location(s): The primary location is Perth, WA, specifically at 58 Mounts Bay Road. The company also operates across Australia and New Zealand, suggesting potential for collaboration or occasional travel to other AECOM offices or project sites.

Workspace Context:

• A collaborative office setting designed to facilitate teamwork among multidisciplinary engineering and project management professionals.

• Access to AECOM's suite of design, project management, and communication tools and technologies.

Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time hours (approx. 40 hours/week) with flexibility offered through alternative start/finish times and hybrid work options. This schedule accommodates the demands of project delivery while promoting work-life balance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Hybrid Work Options" and "On-Site" work location model indicate a structured approach to work, balancing the need for in-person collaboration with employee flexibility. The specific Perth address provides concrete information for potential candidates regarding the physical workspace.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and cover letter to assess experience against core requirements, particularly in highways design and project management.

• Technical Interview: Discussion focused on technical expertise, design management methodologies, and experience with specific highways design standards and project delivery frameworks. Expect questions related to managing multidisciplinary teams and technical challenges.

• Managerial/Leadership Interview: Assessment of leadership style, team management capabilities, client engagement strategies, and commercial awareness. This may involve behavioral questions.

• Portfolio Review: Presentation and discussion of selected projects from your portfolio, focusing on your role, contributions, challenges faced, and outcomes achieved in design management.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership, focusing on strategic alignment, business development aptitude, and cultural fit within AECOM.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Select Examples: Choose 2-3 major highway or road infrastructure projects where you held a significant design management or project leadership role.

• Quantify Achievements: For each project, clearly articulate your responsibilities, the challenges encountered, the solutions implemented, and the quantifiable outcomes (e.g., project completion time, budget adherence, technical improvements, client satisfaction).

• Highlight Multidisciplinary Coordination: Showcase how you managed and integrated various engineering disciplines to achieve a cohesive and constructible design.

• Demonstrate Client & Stakeholder Engagement: Provide examples of how you built relationships, managed expectations, and resolved issues with clients like Main Roads WA.

• Structure Clearly: Organize your portfolio for easy navigation, using clear headings, concise descriptions, and impactful visuals (if appropriate).

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss hypothetical scenarios related to managing a project with scope creep, a challenging team dynamic, or a significant technical issue.

• Consider how you would approach the initial stages of a new major highway project, from team assembly to design framework establishment.

• Think about your approach to fostering innovation and continuous improvement within a design team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "proven experience," "managing multidisciplinary design teams," and "client interface" means the interview process will likely probe deeply into these areas. A well-prepared portfolio showcasing these skills with quantifiable results will be critical for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency with industry-standard CAD software such as AutoCAD, Civil 3D, or Bentley MicroStation is essential for understanding and reviewing designs.

• Project Management Software: Experience with platforms like Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or similar for scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking.

• Collaboration Platforms: Familiarity with tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for team communication and document sharing.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret project performance data, risk registers, and commercial reports. While not a hands-on analyst role, understanding data insights is key.

• Reporting Tools: Experience in generating and reviewing project status reports, financial summaries, and technical delivery updates.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: While not directly managing sales, an understanding of client relationship management principles and potentially using CRM data to understand client needs and project pipelines.

• Document Management Systems: Experience with systems for managing large volumes of project documentation, drawings, and specifications.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific software isn't listed, the nature of a Design Manager role in large infrastructure projects implies proficiency with industry-standard CAD/BIM tools (like Civil 3D or MicroStation) and robust project management software (like Primavera P6 or MS Project) for operational oversight.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity & Trust: Upholding ethical standards in all project dealings and client interactions.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a cooperative environment where diverse disciplines work towards shared project goals.

• Excellence & Innovation: Striving for high-quality, innovative, and constructable design solutions.

• Client Focus: Prioritizing client needs and building strong, lasting relationships.

• Safety & Sustainability: Commitment to safe design practices and environmentally responsible infrastructure development.

Collaboration Style:

• Highly collaborative, requiring strong communication and coordination across internal multidisciplinary teams (designers, engineers, planners) and external stakeholders (clients, contractors, authorities).

• Emphasis on proactive problem-solving and open feedback loops to ensure project success.

• Encourages knowledge sharing and best practice dissemination among team members.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's stated commitment to "equity, diversity, and inclusion" and "delivering a better world" suggests a culture that values inclusive practices and impactful, sustainable projects. The role requires strong interpersonal skills to foster this collaborative environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Project Complexity: Overseeing the intricate interdependencies of multiple engineering disciplines on large-scale highway projects.

• Stakeholder Alignment: Navigating the diverse interests and requirements of clients like Main Roads WA, internal teams, and potentially other government bodies or community groups.

• Technical Innovation vs. Constructability: Balancing the drive for innovative design solutions with practical constructability and adherence to established standards.

• Commercial Pressures: Ensuring projects remain on scope, on time, and within budget while maintaining quality.

• Talent Development: Attracting, retaining, and developing skilled engineering talent within a competitive market.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Access to AECOM's extensive global learning and development resources, including technical training, leadership programs, and project management certifications.

• Opportunities to gain exposure to a wide range of major transport infrastructure projects, broadening technical and managerial expertise.

• Mentorship from senior leaders within AECOM's Transportation division and across the company.

• Potential to lead or contribute to business development and strategic planning initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for senior roles in major infrastructure projects, requiring strong problem-solving and strategic thinking. The growth opportunities align with AECOM's status as a large global firm, offering structured development and diverse career paths.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a major highway project you managed from a design perspective. What were the key challenges, and how did you overcome them?" (Focus on scope, budget, timeline, and stakeholder management).

• "How do you ensure effective collaboration and communication across diverse engineering disciplines (e.g., drainage, structures, traffic) during the design phase?" (Highlight your coordination methodologies).

• "Walk me through your approach to managing project scope and controlling costs on a large infrastructure project." (Demonstrate commercial acumen and process control).

• "How do you foster a culture of innovation while ensuring designs are practical and constructible?" (Showcase your balance of creativity and pragmatism).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you specifically about AECOM and this role within our Highways team?" (Research AECOM's recent projects in WA and their values).

• "How do you align with AECOM's commitment to diversity, inclusion, and delivering a better world?" (Connect your values and experiences to theirs).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• STAR Method: For each project example, use the Situation, Task, Action, Result framework to provide clear, concise, and impactful narratives.

• Visual Aids: If possible, use high-level diagrams or project summaries to illustrate the scale and complexity of your work.

• Quantify Impact: Emphasize measurable outcomes – e.g., "delivered the design 10% under budget," "reduced design review cycles by 15%," "achieved 95% client satisfaction rating."

• Focus on Your Role: Clearly articulate your specific contributions and leadership in managing the design process, rather than just describing the project itself.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the role's emphasis on leadership, project delivery, and client management, interview questions will likely be behavioral and situational, designed to assess your practical experience and problem-solving capabilities in these areas.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Roads & Highways Design Manager position:

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

• Tailor your CV: Highlight specific experience in managing highway/road design projects, multidisciplinary team leadership, client engagement (especially with government bodies), and commercial/program management. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare your portfolio: Select 2-3 key projects that best demonstrate your capabilities in design management, project delivery, and stakeholder interaction. Be ready to discuss these in detail, focusing on your specific contributions and quantifiable achievements.

• Research AECOM: Familiarize yourself with AECOM's recent major transport infrastructure projects in Western Australia and their company values, particularly regarding diversity, sustainability, and client engagement.

• Practice interview responses: Prepare for behavioral and situational questions using the STAR method, focusing on your experience in leadership, problem-solving, and project delivery.

⚠️ 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.