Senior Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Design Manager

Company: BESIX

Location: Brisbane, Queensland, Australia

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Design & Construction Management

Date Posted: 2026-08-27

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearhead design leadership for major construction projects, ensuring alignment with project briefs and commercial targets.

• Manage and coordinate project consultants to deliver high-quality design documentation within budget and on schedule.

• Oversee the review of project designs for regulatory and building code compliance.

• Lead the comprehensive submission of final project documentation, including as-constructed drawings, warranties, and approvals at project handover.

• Conduct thorough reviews of design documentation during tender submissions to validate design status and feasibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is critical for ensuring the technical integrity and timely delivery of complex construction projects, bridging the gap between initial design concepts and on-site execution. The emphasis on "Managing Contractor or Design & Construct projects" indicates a need for a candidate experienced in full project lifecycle responsibility.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and implement robust design strategies in collaboration with project stakeholders, ensuring alignment with BESIX Watpac's project objectives and client requirements.

• Lead and mentor design consultants throughout the project lifecycle, fostering a collaborative environment that drives innovation and efficiency in design delivery.

• Proactively identify and mitigate design-related risks, ensuring compliance with all relevant Australian building codes, standards, and regulatory frameworks.

• Manage the documentation control process meticulously, ensuring all design deliverables are accurate, complete, and readily accessible for project teams and regulatory bodies.

• Coordinate the finalization and submission of all project close-out documentation, including as-constructed drawings, operation and maintenance manuals, warranties, and final authority approvals, to facilitate seamless project handover.

• Conduct detailed design reviews during tender phases, providing expert input on constructability, cost implications, and potential design challenges to inform bidding strategies.

• Uphold the highest standards of design quality, ensuring that all project designs meet the specified performance criteria and aesthetic requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a need for a candidate with strong oversight capabilities, capable of managing multiple facets of the design process from strategic planning to final documentation. The focus on "Managing Contractor or Design & Construct projects" implies a need for practical, hands-on experience in delivering complex build projects where design is integral to the construction methodology.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Degree in a relevant discipline such as Design, Construction Management, or Engineering.

Experience: Extensive experience in Design Management on large-scale Managing Contractor or Design & Construct projects, spanning from tender through to project completion.

Required Skills:

• Proven expertise in Design Management within the construction industry.

• Comprehensive understanding of construction methods, materials, and building technologies.

• In-depth knowledge of Australian building codes, regulations, and statutory compliance requirements.

• Strong leadership and team management capabilities to effectively lead design consultants and project teams.

• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills to liaise with clients, consultants, and internal teams.

• Proficiency in tender documentation review and design validation.

• Demonstrated ability to manage project design deliverables within budget and time constraints.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills for complex design challenges. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with BIM (Building Information Modeling) and associated software.

• Knowledge of contract administration and legal aspects of construction projects.

• Experience in risk management and mitigation strategies related to design.

• Familiarity with project management software for documentation and workflow tracking.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for "extensive experience" and a degree in a "relevant discipline" suggests a role for a seasoned professional. The emphasis on "Managing Contractor or Design & Construct projects" implies that candidates with experience in roles that have direct accountability for both design and construction outcomes will be highly valued.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of three large-scale construction projects managed from tender to completion, with a strong emphasis on design leadership.

• Provide detailed examples of design strategies developed and implemented, demonstrating how they contributed to project success.

• Include documentation samples that illustrate your proficiency in managing design consultants and ensuring quality control.

• Present case studies that highlight your experience in navigating regulatory compliance and achieving necessary authority approvals.

• Demonstrate your ability to deliver comprehensive as-constructed drawings and handover documentation packages. Process Documentation:

• Documented processes for managing design consultants, including onboarding, performance monitoring, and issue resolution.

• Established workflows for design review, approval, and documentation control within a construction project environment.

• Methodologies for ensuring regulatory and building code compliance throughout the design and construction phases.

• Procedures for coordinating and submitting final handover documentation, including warranties and guarantees.

📝 Enhancement Note: A robust portfolio demonstrating a track record of successful design management on complex, large-scale projects is crucial. The emphasis on "Managing Contractor or Design & Construct projects" means the portfolio should highlight the candidate's ability to integrate design seamlessly with the construction execution phase.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: AUD $160,000 - $200,000 per annum (estimated)

Benefits:

• Wellbeing Days: Three additional paid leave days per year to support employee well-being.

• Awards and Recognition Program: Opportunities to be recognized for embodying company values and achieving excellence.

• Health & Wellness Program: Access to annual skin checks and flu vaccinations.

• Corporate Discounts: Reduced rates on gym memberships, meal subscriptions, and other services.

• Social Events and Family Days: Company-sponsored events to foster team cohesion and community engagement.

• Long-term career development opportunities within a growing organization.

Working Hours: Standard full-time hours are typically 40 hours per week, with potential for extended hours depending on project demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The estimated salary range is based on industry benchmarks for Senior Design Managers with 10+ years of experience in major construction projects in Brisbane, Australia, considering the complexity and responsibility of the role. This estimate takes into account the cost of living and typical compensation for similar positions in the Australian construction sector.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction and Infrastructure. BESIX Watpac operates as a significant player in the Australian and New Zealand construction landscape, with a heritage spanning over a century. They are involved in diverse projects including stadiums, industrial facilities, hospitals, and defense infrastructure.

Company Size: BESIX Watpac is part of a larger global entity, BESIX Group, indicating a substantial organizational footprint with access to significant resources and expertise. The local Australian operations are robust, employing a considerable workforce across various projects.

Founded: BESIX Watpac has a rich history in Australia, with over 100 years of operation, signifying stability, extensive experience, and a deep understanding of the local market.

Team Structure:

• The Senior Design Manager will be part of the Qld, NT & NZ Construction team, indicating a regional focus.

• The team structure likely involves close collaboration with Project Managers, Site Engineers, Contract Administrators, and external design consultants.

• Reporting lines will typically be to a senior project executive or director, with direct management of design consultants and oversight of design coordinators. Methodology:

• Emphasis on delivering "what matters" and building projects that leave a lasting legacy in the communities served.

• A culture of collaboration ("build the best together") and valuing people as the "beating heart" of the company.

• Commitment to diversity, inclusion, and respect, fostering a safe and empowering workplace.

Company Website: [BESIX Company URL - As provided in input: "besix.com"]

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture emphasizes a strong sense of heritage, community impact, and people-centric values. For operations professionals, this means working within a structured yet collaborative environment that prioritizes quality, safety, and long-term legacy.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Senior Management position, requiring significant leadership experience and strategic oversight. The role is pivotal in ensuring the successful technical execution of complex construction projects. It sits at a level where significant decision-making authority regarding design direction and consultant management is expected.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Design Manager will report to senior project leadership within the Qld, NT & NZ Construction team. They will likely lead a team of design coordinators and have direct oversight of external design consultants, fostering strong working relationships with project managers and other key project personnel.

Operations Impact: The role's impact is direct and substantial, influencing project timelines, budget adherence, quality outcomes, and overall project success. Effective design management is foundational to the constructability and long-term performance of major infrastructure and building projects. This role directly contributes to BESIX Watpac's reputation for delivering complex and legacy-defining projects.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific construction sectors (e.g., healthcare, defense, complex infrastructure) through project involvement.

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to move into a broader Design Director role, overseeing design for multiple projects or a regional portfolio, or into a General Manager role for specific project types.

• Cross-functional Development: Gain exposure to project management, commercial negotiations, and client relations at a senior level.

• Professional Development: Access to company-sponsored training, industry conferences, and continuous learning initiatives to stay abreast of design and construction innovations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career progression within a large, established construction firm. The emphasis on "Managing Contractor or Design & Construct projects" means that successful candidates will be well-positioned for leadership roles that require a holistic understanding of project delivery.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is primarily based in an office environment, supporting on-site project execution. This suggests a professional office setting with dedicated workspace for design management activities.

Office Location(s): Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. This location is specified, and given the company's operational scope, there may be project sites accessible from this central hub.

Workspace Context:

• A collaborative workspace designed to facilitate interaction with project teams, including project managers, engineers, and contract administrators.

• Access to necessary design software, documentation management systems, and communication tools essential for design coordination.

• Opportunities to engage directly with site teams, requiring visits to project sites to oversee design implementation and resolve on-ground issues.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is full-time, approximately 40 hours per week. However, the nature of construction projects often necessitates flexibility, with potential for extended hours or weekend work during critical phases like tender submissions or project milestones.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role requires a blend of office-based strategic work and on-site engagement. Operations professionals in this role should be prepared for a dynamic environment that balances desk-based responsibilities with the practical demands of active construction projects.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

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

• Hiring Manager Interview: A detailed discussion with the hiring manager (likely a senior project director or executive) focusing on experience with Managing Contractor/Design & Construct projects, design leadership, and strategic approach.

• Technical/Panel Interview: This may involve a panel of project leaders, engineers, and potentially external consultants. Expect in-depth questions about design management methodologies, regulatory compliance, problem-solving, and stakeholder engagement.

• Portfolio Presentation: Candidates will likely be asked to present a selection of their most relevant projects, detailing their role, challenges, solutions, and outcomes, with a focus on design aspects.

• Final Interview/Offer: A final discussion with senior leadership to assess cultural fit and confirm terms of employment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Project Selection: Choose 3-4 key projects that best demonstrate your experience in large-scale Managing Contractor or Design & Construct environments, highlighting your design management contributions.

• Structure: For each project, clearly outline the project scope, your specific responsibilities, key design challenges, the strategies you employed to overcome them, and the measurable outcomes (e.g., budget savings, schedule adherence, quality improvements).

• Visuals: Use diagrams, drawings, and photographs where appropriate to illustrate design concepts and project progress.

• Focus on Impact: Quantify your achievements whenever possible. Highlight how your design management contributed to project success, efficiency, and compliance.

• Preparation: Be ready to articulate your design philosophy, your approach to managing consultants, and how you ensure compliance with building codes and regulations.

Challenge Preparation:

• Case Study: Prepare to discuss a complex design challenge you faced and how you resolved it. Focus on your problem-solving process, decision-making, and the impact of your solution.

• Scenario-Based Questions: Anticipate questions about how you would handle specific design-related issues, such as consultant disputes, scope changes, or unexpected site conditions impacting design.

• Strategic Thinking: Be ready to discuss your approach to developing design strategies for large projects and how you align them with commercial and time targets.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely be rigorous, requiring candidates to demonstrate not only technical expertise but also strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills. A well-prepared portfolio and thoughtful preparation for case studies are essential for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Tools like Aconex, Procore, or similar platforms for document control, collaboration, and project tracking.

• Design Software: Familiarity with industry-standard CAD and BIM software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit) for reviewing and understanding design documentation.

• MS Office Suite: Advanced proficiency in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint for reporting, analysis, and presentations.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Experience with reporting tools to track design progress, identify variances, and forecast potential issues.

• Ability to interpret project data to inform design decisions and stakeholder updates. CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how project information is managed and communicated is key.

• Familiarity with workflow automation tools for documentation review and approval processes would be beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with construction-specific project management and document control software is paramount. While direct design software operation may not be the primary focus, the ability to read, interpret, and critically assess designs produced in these tools is essential.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Collaboration: A strong emphasis on "building the best together" suggests a culture where teamwork and shared responsibility are highly valued. Expect to work closely with diverse teams.

• Integrity & Respect: The company's commitment to valuing everyone, fostering a safe and empowered workplace, highlights the importance of ethical conduct and mutual respect.

• Quality & Excellence: Delivering "what matters" and "lasting legacies" implies a dedication to high standards in all aspects of work, particularly in design and construction quality.

• Innovation & Efficiency: While heritage is important, the need to deliver projects efficiently suggests an openness to new methods and technologies that improve outcomes.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Expect to collaborate extensively with project management, site operations, commercial teams, and external stakeholders (clients, consultants, authorities).

• Proactive Communication: A culture that values open communication and proactive problem-solving is likely, encouraging early identification and resolution of design challenges.

• Feedback Culture: The emphasis on continuous improvement and valuing people suggests an environment where constructive feedback is welcomed and utilized to enhance processes and outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture appears to be people-centric, collaborative, and focused on delivering high-quality, impactful projects. Operations professionals should be prepared to engage actively with various teams and contribute to a positive, results-driven work environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Diverse Stakeholders: Balancing the needs and expectations of clients, consultants, internal project teams, and regulatory bodies.

• Complex Project Environments: Navigating the intricacies of large-scale, multi-disciplinary construction projects with tight deadlines and budgets.

• Regulatory Landscape: Keeping abreast of evolving building codes, standards, and planning regulations across Queensland and potentially other regions.

• Technological Adoption: Ensuring effective integration and utilization of new design and project management technologies within established workflows.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Sector Specialization: Gaining deep expertise in specific construction sectors like healthcare, defense, or complex infrastructure through project involvement.

• Leadership Development: Access to leadership training programs and mentorship to grow into higher-level management roles within BESIX Watpac.

• Industry Engagement: Opportunities to attend industry conferences, workshops, and seminars to stay current with design trends, construction innovations, and regulatory changes.

• Mentorship Programs: Potential for formal or informal mentorship from senior leaders within BESIX, offering guidance on career progression and technical development.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges that are directly tied to opportunities for substantial professional growth within the construction industry. Success in overcoming these challenges will be a strong indicator of readiness for advanced leadership positions.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to developing a design strategy for a large-scale Design & Construct project, ensuring it aligns with both the project brief and commercial objectives." (Focus on strategic planning, risk assessment, and stakeholder alignment.)

• "How do you manage and lead a team of external design consultants to ensure timely delivery of high-quality documentation, especially under pressure?" (Highlight leadership, communication, performance management, and problem-solving.)

• "Walk us through a complex design challenge you encountered on a previous project and how you resolved it. What was the outcome, and what did you learn?" (Prepare a STAR method example focusing on design problem-solving, decision-making, and impact.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about BESIX Watpac and our recent projects? How do you see your role contributing to our legacy of building important infrastructure?" (Research recent projects, company values, and articulate your fit.)

• "How do you foster a collaborative environment among diverse project teams and external consultants?" (Emphasize communication, relationship-building, and conflict resolution skills.)

• "How do you ensure compliance with Australian building codes and regulations throughout the design and construction phases?" (Detail your understanding of regulatory processes and proactive compliance strategies.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Conciseness: Focus on the most impactful aspects of each project, keeping your presentation within the allotted time.

• Visual Aids: Use clear, professional visuals (drawings, diagrams, photos) to support your narrative.

• Quantifiable Results: Highlight measurable achievements (e.g., cost savings, schedule improvements, risk mitigation) driven by your design management.

• Role Clarity: Clearly articulate your specific responsibilities and contributions to the project's design success.

• Q&A Readiness: Be prepared to answer detailed questions about your project experience, methodologies, and decision-making processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely assess your ability to think strategically, manage complex relationships, solve intricate problems, and articulate your value proposition clearly. A strong understanding of BESIX Watpac's operations and values will be beneficial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on smartrecruiters.com.

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight extensive experience in Design Management for Managing Contractor or Design & Construct projects. Use keywords such as "design leadership," "regulatory compliance," "stakeholder management," and "project delivery."

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a portfolio showcasing 3-4 key projects with detailed descriptions of your design management role, challenges, solutions, and outcomes. Focus on quantifiable results and demonstrate your ability to manage design from tender to completion.

• Practice Your Presentation: Rehearse presenting your portfolio and answering potential interview questions, particularly those related to strategy, problem-solving, and leadership.

• Research BESIX Watpac: Familiarize yourself with the company's history, values, and recent projects, especially those in Queensland. Understand their commitment to building "what matters" and "lasting legacies."

⚠️ 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.