Sr. Master Plan Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Sr. Master Plan Design Manager

Company: AECOM

Location: Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Operations Management / Strategic Planning

Date Posted: 2026-08-09T10:23:00.566

Experience Level: 10+ years

Remote Status: On-Site

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearhead the development and evaluation of comprehensive master plans and design criteria for large-scale infrastructure projects, ensuring alignment with strategic business objectives.

• Act as a principal technical advisor and consultant on specialized planning matters, providing expert insights to senior leadership, councils, and relevant governing bodies.

• Oversee and manage specialized planning functions, including new development proposals and environmental impact assessments, ensuring compliance with all applicable regulations.

• Drive operational efficiency and continuous improvement by evaluating existing planning processes and recommending strategic modifications for enhanced project delivery and stakeholder satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is critical for AECOM's infrastructure consulting services, particularly within the Transportation business line in the Middle East. The "Sr. Master Plan Design Manager" title, coupled with responsibilities like advising councils and evaluating operations, strongly indicates a strategic, high-level operations and planning function that bridges technical design with business execution and regulatory oversight. The emphasis on "developing and evaluating plans and criteria" and "advises various councils, boards, commissions and elected officials" points to a role deeply involved in the strategic operational framework of major urban and infrastructure projects.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and refine master planning strategies and design criteria for complex, multi-faceted infrastructure projects, ensuring feasibility and alignment with AECOM's global standards and client objectives.

• Conduct in-depth feasibility assessments and soundings of proposed planning products, identifying potential risks and opportunities for optimization.

• Serve as the primary technical subject matter expert and staff advisor for specialized planning functions, including large-scale new development proposals and comprehensive environmental studies.

• Ensure strict adherence to all local, regional, and federal laws, regulations, and policies governing infrastructure development and planning within Saudi Arabia.

• Provide executive-level guidance and recommendations on all planning-related matters to the Planning Director and other senior stakeholders.

• Evaluate the effectiveness of current planning operations, activities, and workflows, preparing detailed reports with actionable recommendations for improvement and strategic modifications.

• Engage proactively with various councils, boards, commissions, and elected officials to present planning proposals, address concerns, and secure necessary approvals.

• Foster collaborative relationships with internal teams, clients, and external regulatory bodies to ensure seamless project execution and successful outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The original description focuses heavily on the "planning" aspect. For an operations-focused enhancement, we've reframed responsibilities to highlight the managerial, advisory, and evaluative functions critical to operations. Phrases like "drive operational efficiency," "evaluate effectiveness of current planning operations," and "strategic modifications" are introduced to align with operations principles. The inclusion of "stakeholder management" and "regulatory oversight" are also key operational components for a role of this magnitude.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Urban Planning, Architecture, Civil Engineering, or a related field is typically required.

• A Master's degree in Urban Planning, Infrastructure Management, or a related discipline is highly preferred for a senior role.

• Professional certifications in planning (e.g., AICP) or project management (e.g., PMP) are advantageous. Experience:

• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in master planning, urban development, or large-scale infrastructure project design and management.

• Demonstrated experience in evaluating planning processes, identifying operational inefficiencies, and implementing strategic improvements.

• Proven track record of successfully managing complex planning projects from conception through to execution, including significant client and stakeholder interaction. Required Skills:

• Master Planning Expertise: Deep understanding of urban planning principles, design methodologies, and the development of comprehensive master plans.

• Project Management Proficiency: Strong ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to budget.

• Feasibility Assessment: Skill in conducting thorough feasibility studies and risk analyses for large-scale development proposals.

• Regulatory Compliance: Comprehensive knowledge of local (Saudi Arabian), regional, and federal laws and regulations pertaining to urban planning and infrastructure.

• Technical Consulting: Ability to serve as a trusted technical advisor, providing expert insights and strategic recommendations to diverse audiences.

• Operations Evaluation: Competency in assessing operational workflows, identifying bottlenecks, and proposing data-driven improvements.

Preferred Skills:

• Environmental Planning: Experience with environmental impact assessments and sustainable development practices.

• Stakeholder Management: Proven ability to effectively engage with and manage relationships with government officials, clients, and community groups.

• Strategic Advisory: Experience in advising senior leadership, boards, and commissions on critical planning and operational matters.

• Urban Development Software: Familiarity with relevant urban planning and GIS software (e.g., AutoCAD, ArcGIS, CityEngine).

• Report Writing & Presentation: Excellent written and verbal communication skills for preparing comprehensive reports and delivering persuasive presentations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "10+" years of experience is inferred from the "Sr." title and the breadth of responsibilities. The educational requirements are standard for such a senior technical and advisory role in the infrastructure sector. Skills are derived from the core responsibilities, emphasizing both technical planning acumen and operational oversight.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Master Plan Case Studies: Showcase detailed examples of master plans developed, highlighting the scope, objectives, key design elements, and overall impact on urban development or infrastructure.

• Process Improvement Documentation: Include evidence of where you have evaluated and improved planning or operational processes, detailing the methodology used, challenges encountered, and quantifiable results achieved.

• Regulatory Compliance Frameworks: Present examples of how you have ensured compliance with complex regulatory environments, such as developing checklists, audit procedures, or stakeholder engagement plans.

• Feasibility Study Summaries: Provide concise summaries of feasibility studies conducted, demonstrating your analytical approach, risk identification, and recommendation formulation for projects.

• Stakeholder Engagement Plans: Illustrate successful stakeholder engagement strategies and outcomes, particularly in complex projects involving multiple public and private entities.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Optimization: Document your approach to analyzing existing planning workflows, identifying inefficiencies, and designing streamlined, more effective processes.

• System Implementation Standards: Detail your experience in implementing or advising on the use of planning software and systems, focusing on integration, user adoption, and operational benefits.

• Performance Measurement Frameworks: Demonstrate your ability to establish key performance indicators (KPIs) for planning operations and track progress against strategic goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a senior operations and planning role, a portfolio demonstrating not just technical design but also process management, stakeholder influence, and operational impact is crucial. This section outlines specific types of documentation that would be expected to showcase a candidate's capabilities in these areas.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on AECOM's global presence and the senior nature of this role, combined with the cost of living and demand for specialized expertise in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, the estimated annual salary range for a Sr. Master Plan Design Manager is likely between SAR 450,000 - SAR 700,000 (approximately $120,000 - $186,000 USD). This range can vary based on the candidate's specific experience, qualifications, and the final scope of responsibilities. Benefits:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Life insurance and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) coverage.

• Disability benefits (short-term and long-term).

• Generous paid time off (PTO) and various leaves of absence.

• Voluntary benefits options to supplement core offerings.

• Access to well-being resources and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

• Business travel insurance for work-related travel.

• Service recognition awards to acknowledge long-term contributions.

• Retirement savings plan and an Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP).

• Flexible work options may be available within the on-site model, subject to project needs and company policy. Working Hours:

• The standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, aligning with AECOM's operational schedule in Saudi Arabia. While the role is on-site, there may be flexibility in daily start and end times, subject to team coordination and project demands. Extended hours may be required during critical project phases or for urgent operational needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary is estimated based on industry benchmarks for senior engineering/planning management roles in major Middle Eastern cities, considering the cost of living and demand for specialized skills. Benefits are directly pulled from the provided AI data, highlighting AECOM's comprehensive package. Working hours are standardized for a full-time, on-site role, with acknowledgment of potential overtime.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Infrastructure Consulting (Engineering, Design, Program Management)

Company Size: AECOM is a global leader with over 50,000 employees worldwide, indicating a large, well-established organization with extensive resources and a broad market reach.

Founded: AECOM traces its roots back to 1910, signifying a long history of innovation and expertise in the infrastructure sector.

Team Structure:

• The role likely sits within AECOM's DCS (Design, Consulting, and Solutions) business group, specifically within the Transportation business line.

• The Sr. Master Plan Design Manager will report to a Planning Director and will likely manage a team of planners, designers, and technical specialists, or lead cross-functional project teams.

• Close collaboration is expected with other AECOM business lines (e.g., Water, Environment, Buildings), project managers, client representatives, and external stakeholders, including government entities and community groups. Methodology:

• AECOM emphasizes a data-driven approach to planning and design, utilizing advanced analytics and digital tools to inform decision-making and optimize project outcomes.

• Collaborative problem-solving is a core methodology, encouraging diverse perspectives to tackle complex infrastructure challenges.

• A strong focus on sustainability and resilience is integrated into planning and design processes, aiming to create lasting positive impacts.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Company context is derived from the "Company Description" and "Additional Information" sections, emphasizing AECOM's global scale, legacy, and core values. The team structure is inferred from the provided "Business Group," "Business Line," and the reporting relationship mentioned in the job description.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior-level position, often referred to as a Principal or Director-track role within the operations and planning domain. It requires a high degree of autonomy, strategic thinking, and the ability to influence decision-making at the highest levels. The scope involves managing significant technical and operational aspects of major projects.

Reporting Structure: The Sr. Master Plan Design Manager reports directly to the Planning Director. This position likely involves managing direct reports (planners, designers) and leading cross-functional teams, requiring strong leadership and delegation skills.

Operations Impact: The role has a profound impact on AECOM's success in the region by shaping critical infrastructure projects that drive economic development, improve quality of life, and ensure sustainability. Effective master planning and operational oversight directly contribute to AECOM's reputation, client satisfaction, and revenue generation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to progress into higher leadership roles such as Planning Director, Regional Director of Operations, or pursue specialized executive roles within AECOM's global network.

• Technical Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific areas of master planning (e.g., smart cities, sustainable infrastructure, transportation hubs) and become a recognized industry thought leader.

• Global Mobility: As a global company, AECOM offers opportunities to work on diverse projects in different regions, broadening experience and international exposure.

• Professional Development: Access to AECOM's extensive training programs, mentorship opportunities, and support for professional certifications to enhance technical and leadership skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: This analysis interprets the "Sr." title and the described responsibilities within the context of typical career progression in the infrastructure consulting industry, focusing on leadership, strategic impact, and skill development.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is designated as On-Site, meaning the majority of work will be performed from AECOM's office in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. This suggests a traditional office setting designed for collaboration and focused work.

Office Location(s): The primary location is specified as KSA - Jeddah, specifically at the Al Murjanah Tower. This central location likely offers accessibility within the city for employees and facilitates client meetings.

Workspace Context:

• The office environment is expected to be professional and collaborative, fostering interaction among planning, design, engineering, and project management teams.

• Employees will have access to AECOM's standard office technology, including high-speed internet, workstations, and potentially specialized software for planning and design.

• Opportunities for interaction with colleagues from various disciplines will be frequent, encouraging knowledge sharing and cross-functional problem-solving.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday, typical for professional services in the region. The on-site nature requires consistent presence, but flexibility in daily hours may be possible depending on operational needs and team agreements.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section synthesizes information from "Work Location Model: On-Site" and the specific location details, inferring the nature of the physical workspace and daily work environment typical for a senior professional in a major corporate office.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess qualifications against the core requirements. Expect questions about your project management experience and master planning approach.

• Technical Interview: In-depth discussion about your technical expertise in master planning, urban design, feasibility studies, and regulatory compliance. You will likely be asked to present specific case studies from your portfolio.

• Operations & Strategy Focus: Interviews will likely delve into your experience evaluating operations, driving efficiency, and advising senior stakeholders. Be prepared to discuss how you have improved processes and managed complex stakeholder relationships.

• Team/Cultural Fit: Meetings with potential team members and senior leadership to assess your collaborative style, leadership potential, and alignment with AECOM's values.

• Final Round: May involve a presentation to senior executives or a comprehensive case study analysis related to a current AECOM project or challenge.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Focus on 2-3 high-impact projects that best demonstrate your mastery of master planning, operational oversight, and stakeholder management.

• Highlight Process & Impact: For each project, clearly articulate your role, the planning methodologies used, how you evaluated and improved operational aspects, and the quantifiable results achieved (e.g., cost savings, efficiency gains, regulatory approvals secured).

• Quantify Achievements: Use data and metrics whenever possible to showcase the impact of your work.

• Structure for Clarity: Organize your portfolio logically, with clear titles, concise descriptions, and impactful visuals. Be prepared to walk through it efficiently.

• Tailor to AECOM: Emphasize projects or experiences relevant to AECOM's work in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East, particularly in transportation and urban development.

Challenge Preparation:

• Operational Efficiency Case Study: Practice analyzing a hypothetical planning scenario and proposing operational improvements, focusing on streamlining workflows, reducing risks, and enhancing stakeholder communication.

• Strategic Advisory Scenario: Prepare to advise a hypothetical council or board on a complex planning issue, articulating your recommendations, rationale, and potential impacts.

• Stakeholder Conflict Resolution: Consider how you would manage a situation involving conflicting stakeholder interests in a major development project.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides actionable advice for candidates, anticipating the interview stages and portfolio review based on the seniority and nature of the role. It emphasizes the need to showcase operational acumen alongside technical planning skills.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Master Planning & Design Software: Proficiency in industry-standard tools such as AutoCAD, Civil 3D, ArcGIS (GIS), and potentially specialized master planning software like CityEngine or SketchUp is expected.

• Project Management Software: Experience with tools like Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or similar platforms for managing complex project timelines, resources, and budgets.

• Collaboration Platforms: Familiarity with Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar tools for team communication and project collaboration.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to utilize tools like Microsoft Excel (advanced functions), potentially Power BI or Tableau for data analysis, visualization, and reporting on project performance and operational metrics.

• Reporting Dashboards: Experience in creating and interpreting dashboards to monitor project progress, operational efficiency, and compliance status.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct sales role, understanding how CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce) integrate with project management and client data can be beneficial for stakeholder tracking and relationship management.

• Familiarity with workflow automation principles to identify opportunities for process improvement within planning and design operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section infers the likely technology stack based on the nature of master planning and infrastructure consulting, emphasizing tools for design, project management, data analysis, and collaboration.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Delivery: A commitment to high-quality planning and design, ensuring projects meet technical, environmental, and client expectations.

• Integrity and Trust: Upholding ethical standards in all dealings, particularly when advising public bodies and managing sensitive project information.

• Collaboration and Teamwork: Fostering a cooperative environment where diverse expertise is valued, and collective problem-solving is encouraged.

• Innovation and Sustainability: Driving forward-thinking solutions that incorporate sustainable practices and contribute to resilient infrastructure development.

• Accountability: Taking ownership of responsibilities, delivering on commitments, and proactively managing risks within operations.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: AECOM thrives on integrating expertise from various disciplines. Expect to work closely with engineers, environmental scientists, financial analysts, and program managers.

• Open Communication: A culture that encourages open dialogue, constructive feedback, and transparency in project planning and operational reviews.

• Client-Centric Approach: A strong focus on understanding and meeting client needs, building long-term partnerships through reliable service and strategic advice.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's emphasis on "delivering a better world" and being a "trusted infrastructure consulting firm" suggests core values centered around impact, integrity, and expertise. These are translated into operations-specific values relevant to a senior planning role.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Complex Regulations: Keeping abreast of and ensuring compliance with evolving local and national regulations in a dynamic market like Saudi Arabia.

• Managing Diverse Stakeholders: Balancing the often-competing interests of government agencies, private developers, community groups, and AECOM's own business objectives.

• Large-Scale Project Complexity: Overseeing intricate master plans that involve numerous interdependencies, long timelines, and significant financial investment.

• Driving Operational Efficiency: Identifying and implementing process improvements in a large, established organization requires strong change management skills and persuasive communication.

• Adapting to Technological Advancements: Staying current with new planning software, digital twins, AI in design, and other emerging technologies to maintain AECOM's competitive edge.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Master Planning Techniques: Access to training on cutting-edge master planning methodologies, smart city concepts, and sustainable urban development.

• Leadership and Management Skills: Development programs focused on executive leadership, strategic decision-making, and managing high-performing teams.

• Industry Engagement: Opportunities to represent AECOM at conferences, engage with industry bodies, and contribute to thought leadership in urban planning and infrastructure.

• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Working on a wide array of project types across AECOM's business lines provides broad exposure to different operational challenges and solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section identifies potential challenges inherent in a senior role within infrastructure consulting in a developing region, alongside growth avenues that leverage AECOM's global resources and commitment to employee development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex master plan you developed. What were the key operational challenges in its creation, and how did you address them?" (Focus on process, stakeholder management, and problem-solving.)

• "How do you assess the feasibility and soundness of a large-scale development proposal from an operational and regulatory standpoint?" (Prepare to discuss your analytical framework and risk mitigation strategies.)

• "Imagine you need to advise a municipal council on a controversial urban development project. How would you prepare your presentation and manage potential opposition?" (Demonstrate strategic communication and advisory skills.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in AECOM, and how do you see your skills contributing to our mission of delivering a better world?" (Research AECOM's recent projects, values, and strategic goals.)

• "Describe your experience working within large, matrixed organizations. How do you navigate cross-functional collaboration and ensure alignment?" (Highlight your adaptability and teamwork skills.)

• "How do you ensure that operational efficiency and sustainability are integrated into the master planning process?" (Connect your past experiences to AECOM's stated values and priorities.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• The STAR Method: Structure your project examples using the Situation, Task, Action, Result framework, emphasizing your specific contributions and the outcomes.

• Quantifiable Impact: Clearly articulate metrics related to project success, cost savings, efficiency gains, or regulatory approvals.

• Operational Focus: For each project, be ready to discuss not just the design but the operational processes, challenges, and your role in optimizing them.

• Visual Aids: Use high-quality visuals (maps, renderings, charts) to support your presentations, but keep them concise and focused on conveying key information.

• Q&A Readiness: Anticipate questions about your methodologies, decision-making rationale, and how you would handle specific challenges presented by AECOM.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation advice is tailored to the seniority of the role, emphasizing strategic thinking, operational insight, and the ability to articulate complex projects and processes effectively.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on SmartRecruiters.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your 10+ years of experience in master planning, project management, and operations evaluation. Use keywords from the job description and AECOM's industry focus (e.g., infrastructure, transportation, urban development, regulatory compliance, operational efficiency). Quantify your achievements with specific numbers and metrics.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 key projects that best showcase your expertise in master planning, strategic advisory, and process optimization. Prepare a concise narrative for each, focusing on your role, the challenges, the operational improvements you implemented, and the positive outcomes.

• Prepare for Case Studies: Anticipate technical and operational case study challenges related to master planning in urban environments or infrastructure development. Practice articulating your problem-solving approach and recommendations.

• Research AECOM: Familiarize yourself with AECOM's global presence, its recent projects in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East, its values, and its commitment to sustainability. Understand how this role contributes to their broader strategic objectives.

⚠️ 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.

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