Services Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Services Design Manager

Company: Lendlease

Location: Brisbane, Queensland, Australia

Job Type: Full time

Category: Construction Operations / Design Management

Date Posted: 2026-09-09T00:00:00

Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (5-10 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the design and coordination of multiple building services (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, HVAC) packages for major construction projects.

• Act as the primary client-facing design representative, managing consultant design teams and ensuring alignment with project objectives.

• Collaborate closely with cost planning and construction teams to integrate design, budget, and buildability considerations.

• Drive innovation and ensure adherence to the highest standards of safety, quality, and sustainability in all design deliverables.

• Manage document control processes and review design compliance to meet all technical requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within Lendlease's Construction division, focusing on the operational execution of design for large-scale building projects. The emphasis is on managing the 'building services' aspect, which is critical for the functionality and sustainability of modern construction. The "Services Design Manager" title implies a strong focus on MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) systems and their integration into the overall project lifecycle, bridging the gap between conceptual design and on-site execution.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage the design development of Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, and HVAC systems for upcoming Queensland projects.

• Review and approve consultant design submissions, ensuring they meet project specifications, Australian standards, and regulatory requirements.

• Chair and facilitate regular design meetings with consultant teams, internal stakeholders, and external parties to drive progress and resolve issues.

• Implement and maintain robust document control procedures for all design-related documentation, ensuring version control and accessibility.

• Coordinate effectively with the cost planning team to ensure designs are cost-effective and within budget, providing input for value engineering initiatives.

• Liaise with the construction team to ensure constructability of designs and to address any site-specific challenges or modifications.

• Uphold and promote Lendlease's commitment to safety, quality, and sustainability throughout the design process.

• Act as a key point of contact for clients and stakeholders regarding building services design, providing clear communication and expert advice.

• Proactively identify and mitigate design risks that could impact project timelines, budget, or quality.

• Contribute to the continuous improvement of design management processes and best practices within Lendlease Construction.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a hands-on management role requiring deep technical knowledge of building services (MEP) and strong project management capabilities. The emphasis on "client's design point of contact" and "management of consultant design teams" points to a role that requires strong leadership and stakeholder management skills, in addition to technical oversight. This is more than just a coordination role; it involves actively driving the design process to meet complex project demands.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, or related field), Construction Management, or a related discipline.

• Alternatively, a strong MEP trade background combined with significant relevant experience managing various services packages will be considered. Experience:

• Minimum of 5-10 years of progressive experience in design management, project management, or engineering roles within major building construction projects.

• Proven track record in design coordination, particularly managing complex building services (MEP) packages. Required Skills:

• Design Management: Expertise in overseeing the entire design lifecycle for building services.

• Building Services (MEP): Comprehensive understanding of Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, and HVAC systems.

• Project Management: Ability to manage timelines, budgets, resources, and deliverables for design packages.

• Design Coordination: Skill in integrating various design disciplines and resolving conflicts.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for managing clients, consultants, and internal teams.

• Compliance & Standards: Knowledge of Australian building codes, standards, and regulatory requirements.

• Document Control: Proficiency in managing design documentation and workflows.

• Leadership: Proven ability to lead and motivate design teams and drive towards customer-focused outcomes.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with specific construction project types relevant to Lendlease's pipeline in Queensland.

• Familiarity with BIM (Building Information Modeling) and its application in design coordination.

• Knowledge of sustainable building practices and certifications (e.g., Green Star).

• Experience in contract administration and procurement related to design consultants.

• Cost planning or quantity surveying background for better budget integration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience level and educational requirements suggest a mid-to-senior role requiring a blend of technical expertise and managerial acumen. The emphasis on "MEP trade background" alongside formal qualifications indicates Lendlease values practical, hands-on knowledge in addition to academic credentials, making the role accessible to experienced tradespeople transitioning into management.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Project Examples: Showcase significant building services (MEP) design packages managed, detailing scale, complexity, and key systems implemented.

• Coordination Case Studies: Present instances where complex design coordination challenges were successfully resolved, highlighting collaboration with other disciplines.

• Process Improvement Initiatives: Demonstrate contributions to enhancing design management workflows, document control, or compliance review processes.

• Risk Mitigation Examples: Provide evidence of identifying and managing design-related risks, detailing outcomes and lessons learned.

• Sustainability Integration: Showcase projects where sustainable design principles for building services were successfully incorporated and achieved specific outcomes.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their approach to developing and documenting design processes, including:
  • Workflow Design: How they structure and map out the design development and review process for MEP packages.
  • Implementation & Automation: Methods used to ensure efficient execution of design tasks and potential use of technology for process enhancement.
  • Measurement & Analysis: How they track the performance of design processes, measure compliance, and identify areas for continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Services Design Manager role, a portfolio is crucial for demonstrating practical experience. It should clearly articulate the candidate's ability to manage complex MEP systems from a design perspective, emphasizing problem-solving, coordination, and adherence to project constraints. The focus on process documentation indicates that Lendlease values a structured, repeatable approach to design management, rather than ad-hoc problem-solving.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for a Services Design Manager with 5-10 years of experience in Brisbane, Australia, the estimated annual salary range is AUD $130,000 - $180,000. This range accounts for the complexity of managing building services on major construction projects, the cost of living in Brisbane, and Lendlease's standing as a global integrated real estate group. Benefits:

• Health & Well-being: Comprehensive Health & Well-being program, including dedicated well-being leave, health assessments, and discounts for gym/exercise facilities.

• Work-Life Balance: Flexible work arrangements, options to purchase additional annual leave, and extensive family support benefits.

• Parental Leave: Generous 26 weeks of paid parental leave for primary carers.

• Additional Leave: 3 extra Wellbeing days per year, in addition to standard annual leave.

• Career Development: Access to a large pipeline of diverse project work for continuous career development and growth opportunities.

• Financial Incentives: Bonus scheme, Employee Share Acquisition program, and opportunities for salary sacrificing.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours, typically around 40 hours per week. While the role is on-site, Lendlease offers work flexibility, which may allow for some adjustment in daily start/end times, subject to project needs and team coordination.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on current market data for similar roles in Brisbane, Australia. It is crucial for candidates to note that this is an estimate and actual compensation will be determined by Lendlease based on the candidate's specific experience, qualifications, and the final scope of the role. The listed benefits are extensive and highlight Lendlease's commitment to employee welfare and work-life balance, which are significant attractors for operations and management professionals.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Real Estate (Investment Management, Development, Construction). Lendlease operates at the forefront of creating sustainable and thriving places, integrating property and infrastructure.

Company Size: Global enterprise with a significant presence in Australia, employing thousands. This large scale offers stability and extensive project opportunities.

Founded: Over 60 years of history, indicating a stable and experienced organization with a proven track record in the industry.

Team Structure:

• Operations Focus: The role sits within Lendlease Construction, specifically managing the design aspects of building services.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: This role demands close collaboration with various internal teams, including project management, cost planning, construction execution, safety, and sustainability. It also involves extensive engagement with external consultant design teams.

• Reporting: Likely reports to a senior project director or head of design, with direct management responsibilities for consultant teams and potentially junior design coordinators.

Methodology:

• Integrated Approach: Lendlease emphasizes an integrated approach, bringing together investment, development, and construction expertise.

• Innovation & Sustainability: A strong focus on pushing boundaries, embracing challenges, and delivering innovative, sustainable solutions.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Implicit in managing complex projects, with a need for data to inform design choices, cost management, and risk assessment.

Company Website: www.lendlease.com/careers

📝 Enhancement Note: Lendlease's global presence and long history suggest a robust organizational structure with well-defined processes. The emphasis on "creating thriving places" and "sustainable solutions" indicates a company culture that values long-term impact and responsible development. For a Services Design Manager, this means working within a framework that prioritizes quality, innovation, and community benefit.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a Mid-Senior Management level. It requires demonstrated leadership in managing complex design packages and a deep understanding of building services. The "Manager" title signifies responsibility for outcomes, team leadership, and significant stakeholder interaction.

Reporting Structure: The role likely reports into a senior project leadership position (e.g., Project Director, Head of Construction) within the Queensland operations. The Services Design Manager will, in turn, manage and coordinate the work of external design consultants and potentially internal design support staff.

Operations Impact: The Services Design Manager has a critical impact on project success by ensuring that building services are designed efficiently, compliantly, and sustainably. Effective management of these services directly influences project budget, construction timelines, operational costs for the end-user, and the overall quality and functionality of the completed building. This role is key to delivering the "innovative and sustainable solutions" Lendlease prides itself on.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific building services (e.g., advanced HVAC systems, complex electrical infrastructure) or in sustainable design for complex projects.

• Project Leadership: Transition to broader Project Management roles or Program Management, overseeing multiple projects or larger, more complex developments.

• Technical Leadership: Move into a senior technical advisory role, setting design standards and best practices across a region or nationally.

• Cross-Disciplinary Roles: Explore opportunities in development management or construction management, leveraging design understanding.

• Mentorship: Opportunity to mentor junior engineers or design coordinators, developing leadership and training skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: Lendlease's mention of a "large pipeline of project work" is a significant indicator of growth potential. For a Services Design Manager, this translates into opportunities to work on diverse projects, gain experience with different building typologies, and potentially advance into roles with greater scope and responsibility within the organization. The emphasis on sustainability and innovation also points to growth in specialized areas.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is primarily on-site, necessitating regular presence at project locations in Brisbane and surrounding areas. Lendlease also maintains corporate offices, which may serve as a base for administrative tasks, team meetings, and collaboration with other departments.

Office Location(s): Primarily based in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. This involves working from project sites, which can vary, and potentially a Lendlease office in the region for administrative and collaborative functions.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role demands constant interaction with project teams, consultants, and stakeholders, fostering a highly collaborative work atmosphere.

• Tools & Technology: Access to project management software, design software (potentially BIM viewers), document management systems, and communication platforms.

• Field Exposure: Significant time will be spent on construction sites, requiring adaptability to dynamic environments and a focus on safety protocols.

Work Schedule: Full-time, on-site role. While standard hours apply, the dynamic nature of construction projects may require flexibility to meet critical deadlines or address urgent design issues. Lendlease's commitment to work flexibility may allow for some adjustments, but the core requirement is on-site presence.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "On-site" work arrangement is typical for a construction-focused role like this. The emphasis on collaboration and field exposure means candidates should be comfortable with a mix of office-based design review and on-site engagement, which is essential for effective building services management in construction.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and application to assess alignment with core requirements (experience, qualifications, building services knowledge).

• First Interview: Likely with a hiring manager or senior project lead to discuss experience, technical skills, and cultural fit. Expect questions about project examples, design challenges, and leadership style.

• Technical Assessment/Portfolio Review: A dedicated session to review the candidate's portfolio. This will involve discussing specific projects, design decisions, coordination strategies, and problem-solving approaches. Be prepared to elaborate on your role, the outcomes, and the processes you followed.

• Second/Final Interview: May involve meeting with more senior leadership, HR, or a panel. This stage often focuses on strategic thinking, understanding of Lendlease's values, and long-term career aspirations.

• Reference Checks: Standard procedure to verify employment history and performance.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-4 key projects that best demonstrate your experience in managing building services design for major construction projects. Highlight projects of similar scale and complexity to

Lendlease's pipeline.

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

  • Project Scope & Your Role: What was the project, and what was your specific responsibility for building services design?
  • Challenges: What were the key technical, coordination, or logistical challenges?
  • Solutions & Processes: How did you address these challenges? Detail your design review, coordination, and problem-solving methodologies.
  • Outcomes: What were the results? Focus on compliance, efficiency, cost savings, sustainability achievements, and overall project success. Quantify wherever possible.

• Highlight MEP Expertise: Ensure your portfolio clearly showcases your depth of knowledge in Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, and HVAC systems.

• Demonstrate Collaboration: Provide examples of how you effectively collaborated with other disciplines, consultants, and construction teams.

• Showcase Problem-Solving: Be ready to discuss specific instances where you identified and resolved complex design issues.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for hypothetical scenarios related to design conflicts, stakeholder disagreements, or unexpected site conditions affecting services design.

• Practice articulating your thought process for resolving such issues, emphasizing your understanding of building services, project constraints, and Lendlease's values.

• Consider how you would approach a new project, from initial design brief review to final sign-off, outlining your key steps and considerations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a role like this will heavily scrutinize practical experience and problem-solving abilities. A well-prepared portfolio that clearly articulates the candidate's impact on past projects, especially regarding building services design and coordination, will be critical for success. Candidates should be ready to discuss their processes and demonstrate how they align with Lendlease's focus on quality, safety, and sustainability.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with platforms like MS Project, Primavera P6, or similar for scheduling and resource management.

• Document Management Systems: Experience with systems like Aconex, Procore, or SharePoint for controlling design documentation, RFIs, and submittals.

• BIM Software (Viewer/Basic Use): While not necessarily a BIM modeler, proficiency in viewing and navigating BIM models (e.g., Navisworks, Revit Viewer) is highly beneficial for design coordination.

• Communication Platforms: Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for daily team communication and collaboration.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Spreadsheet Software: Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel for data analysis, tracking, and reporting on design progress, compliance metrics, and potential cost impacts.

• Reporting Tools: Ability to generate clear, concise reports for management and stakeholders on design status, risks, and key decisions.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design interfaces with client relationships managed by CRM systems is beneficial.

• Automation: Awareness of how technology can automate aspects of document review, compliance checking, or reporting within the design process.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with common construction project management and document control software is essential. The ability to leverage BIM for coordination is increasingly important and would be a significant advantage. Experience with tools that facilitate clear reporting and data analysis will also be highly valued.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Driving outcomes that meet client needs and expectations, particularly regarding the functionality and performance of building services.

• Highest Standards: Upholding exceptional quality, safety, and sustainability in all design and construction activities.

• Collaboration: Working effectively with diverse internal and external teams, fostering a cooperative environment to achieve project goals.

• Innovation: Embracing new ideas and technologies to deliver better, more efficient, and sustainable building solutions.

• Integrity: Acting ethically and transparently in all dealings with stakeholders.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive Engagement: Actively seeking input from and providing information to all relevant parties to ensure seamless design integration.

• Constructive Feedback: Willingness to provide and receive feedback on designs and processes to drive continuous improvement.

• Team-Oriented: Prioritizing collective project success over individual contributions, fostering a supportive team environment.

• Open Communication: Maintaining transparent and regular communication channels to keep all stakeholders informed and aligned.

📝 Enhancement Note: Lendlease's stated values of customer focus, high standards, collaboration, innovation, and integrity are likely embedded in their operational practices. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate how they embody these values in their daily work, particularly in how they manage design processes and interact with teams and stakeholders.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Design Complexity: Balancing the intricate requirements of Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, and HVAC systems within tight project schedules and budgets.

• Stakeholder Alignment: Navigating differing priorities and expectations among clients, consultants, and construction teams.

• Technical Problem-Solving: Addressing unforeseen technical issues that arise during the design or construction phases.

• Evolving Standards: Keeping pace with rapidly changing building codes, sustainability regulations, and technological advancements in building services.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Training: Access to courses and certifications in advanced building services engineering, sustainable design, or project management methodologies.

• Industry Exposure: Opportunities to attend industry conferences, workshops, and site visits related to construction and building technologies.

• Mentorship Programs: Potential to be mentored by senior leaders within Lendlease or to mentor emerging talent, fostering leadership skills.

• Project Diversity: Exposure to a wide range of projects, from residential to commercial and infrastructure, offering broad learning experiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: The construction industry is dynamic, and this role will present challenges that require adaptability and continuous learning. Lendlease's commitment to employee development suggests that support will be available for professionals looking to grow their skills and advance their careers within the company.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for managing a full suite of building services designs (MEP) on a major construction project, from concept to construction documentation."

• "How do you ensure effective collaboration and communication between design consultants and the construction team to prevent conflicts and delays?"

• "Walk us through a time you identified a significant design risk related to building services. How did you mitigate it, and what was the outcome?" Company & Culture Questions:

• "How do your personal values align with Lendlease's commitment to sustainability and creating thriving places?"

• "Describe your experience working within a large, integrated organization like Lendlease. How do you navigate cross-functional team dynamics?"

• "How do you measure the success of your design management efforts, particularly in relation to project objectives and Lendlease's standards?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Focus on Impact: For each project presented, clearly articulate the value you added through your design management and coordination efforts. Quantify achievements (e.g., cost savings, schedule improvements, compliance successes).

• Detail Your Process: Be prepared to explain the specific methodologies and tools you used for design review, coordination, document control, and stakeholder communication.

• Showcase Problem-Solving: Select examples that clearly demonstrate your ability to identify and resolve complex technical or coordination issues related to building services.

• Connect to Lendlease: Where possible, draw parallels between your past experiences and the types of projects Lendlease undertakes, demonstrating your suitability for their pipeline.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on articulating your practical experience with building services, your project management skills, and your ability to collaborate effectively within a large construction organization. Be ready to provide specific examples that showcase your problem-solving capabilities and alignment with Lendlease's values.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the Lendlease careers portal link provided.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight specific experience in managing building services (MEP) design for major construction projects, using keywords from the job description such as "Design Management," "Building Services," "MEP," "Design Coordination," and "Construction Management." Quantify achievements where possible.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a selection of your most relevant projects that showcase your expertise in managing building services design. Ensure it includes clear case studies detailing challenges, your processes, and quantifiable outcomes. Be ready to walk through your portfolio during an interview.

• Research Lendlease: Familiarize yourself with Lendlease's global projects, their approach to sustainability, and their values. Understand their presence and upcoming projects in Queensland.

• Practice Your Interview Responses: Prepare to answer questions about your technical experience, leadership style, problem-solving abilities, and how you align with Lendlease's culture and operational standards. Practice articulating your portfolio examples.

⚠️ 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.