Structural Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Structural Design Manager

Company: Ferrovial

Location: Austin, TX, United States

Job Type: Full time

Category: Engineering & Construction Operations

Date Posted: 2026-08-05

Experience Level: 5-10 years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the structural design and management for large-scale civil infrastructure projects, encompassing both bidding and construction phases.

• Coordinate structural design activities with external consultants and internal departments, ensuring technical integrity and project success.

• Drive technical innovation within the Structures Department, developing creative solutions for complex engineering challenges.

• Ensure adherence to structural integrity, industry compliance, schedule, and budget constraints throughout project lifecycles.

• Contribute to the continuous improvement of the Structures Department's performance through ongoing learning and process optimization.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within an operations-focused engineering services department, emphasizing practical application of structural design principles within a construction context. The focus on "Design & Build" and collaboration with Estimating and Construction departments highlights a strong operational and project delivery orientation, rather than purely theoretical design.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead or actively participate in the development of structural design for tender proposals and design-build transportation projects, ensuring alignment with client requirements and company capabilities.

• Manage external design teams to prepare comprehensive plans, reports, and technical specifications for all design phase deliverables, overseeing their quality and adherence to project standards.

• Conduct thorough due diligence reviews of bridge, building structures, and retaining wall designs provided by subconsultants and clients, performing critical quality control checks on work developed by others.

• Monitor and report progress against the design schedule, reviewing and approving tasks to ensure critical deadlines are met and project timelines are maintained.

• Provide essential support for ongoing detailed design projects, proactively proposing alternative solutions and effectively resolving complex structural challenges that arise.

• Coordinate and lead project-specific meetings with clients, engineering consultants, and other key stakeholders to discuss, resolve, and document design and construction-related issues.

• Perform in-house structural designs and plan production for complex highway, railroad, and building structures, applying advanced engineering principles and software.

• Work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment, actively communicating with the Ferrovial team involved in design and construction to identify needs, evaluate alternative solutions, and contribute to design optimizations.

• Estimate bills of quantities, including generating accurate quantities and performing quality checks on quantities provided by subconsultants, to support accurate cost estimation and procurement.

• Support workload deadlines through effective task management and resource allocation, ensuring timely submittals and project milestones.

• Assist with field observation work as necessary to verify design implementation and address on-site structural issues.

• Perform other duties as assigned that are directly related to the scope of work for structural design management in civil infrastructure projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a hands-on management role that bridges the gap between design and construction. Emphasis on "managing external design teams," "conducting due diligence reviews," and "performing in-house structural designs" suggests a need for both leadership and technical depth. The inclusion of "estimating bills of quantities" further solidifies the operational and project delivery focus.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Civil or Structural Engineering required, obtained from an accredited U.S. college or university, with a strong focus in structural engineering.

• Master of Science (MSc) degree with a focus in structural engineering is preferred, indicating a desire for advanced theoretical knowledge. Experience:

• A minimum of five years of relevant professional experience in the design of bridges and structures is mandatory, demonstrating practical application of engineering principles.

• Previous experience using AASHTO and/or other North American Standards (e.g., CSA S6, ACI) is essential for compliance with regional regulations and best practices.

• Previous experience managing external or internal design teams is preferred, highlighting leadership and project coordination capabilities.

• Previous experience in tender proposals is preferred, indicating a direct contribution to business development and project acquisition. Required Skills:

• Proficiency in structural design principles for civil infrastructure, including bridges, buildings, and retaining walls.

• Strong understanding and application of North American engineering standards (AASHTO, CSA S6, ACI).

• Expertise in structural calculations and analysis using relevant software.

• Excellent leadership and project management skills, with a proven ability to manage teams and deadlines.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills, essential for stakeholder engagement and technical documentation.

• Demonstrated attention to detail and ability to perform in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

• Commitment to high standards of integrity and ethics in engineering practice. Preferred Skills:

• Registration as a Professional Engineer (P.E.) in any U.S. state (Texas preferred), or the ability to obtain the qualification within three months, signifying a certified level of expertise.

• Knowledge and practical experience with design software such as Bentley OpenBridge Designer (formerly Leap Concrete Steel), CSI SAP2000, or SOFiSTiK, indicating advanced technical tool proficiency.

• Familiarity with Bentley MicroStation or Autodesk AutoCAD environments, with a preference for MicroStation, reflecting common industry tools.

• Experience in developing design optimizations and contributing to technical innovations.

• Eagerness to learn and apply engineering skills to develop creative problem-solving designs and ideas.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a P.E. license and the preference for an MSc degree suggest a role that demands a high level of technical expertise and professional accreditation, typical for senior engineering positions within infrastructure operations. The inclusion of specific design software and CAD platforms points to a technical focus within the operational execution of projects.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a portfolio showcasing successful management of structural design processes for large-scale civil infrastructure projects, particularly in a Design & Build context.

• Include case studies highlighting contributions to tender proposals and the development of technical innovations that improved project outcomes or efficiency.

• Present examples of structural calculations and plan reviews, illustrating thoroughness, accuracy, and adherence to industry standards (AASHTO, etc.).

• Showcase experience in managing external design teams, including examples of coordination, quality control, and performance monitoring to ensure deliverables meet project requirements. Process Documentation:

• Provide evidence of workflow design and optimization for structural design processes, particularly in managing external consultants and ensuring timely delivery of plans and specifications.

• Document instances of implementing automation or innovative solutions within the design process to enhance efficiency, accuracy, or cost-effectiveness.

• Illustrate experience in monitoring design progress against schedules, including methods for reporting, identifying risks, and implementing corrective actions to maintain project momentum.

• Present examples of how structural challenges were identified, analyzed, and resolved through collaboration with construction and estimating teams, demonstrating practical problem-solving skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Structural Design Manager role, a portfolio should emphasize project lifecycle management, team leadership, and technical problem-solving within a construction operations framework. It's crucial to showcase not just design capability but also the ability to manage the design process effectively to support construction and bidding objectives.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Based on industry benchmarks for a Structural Design Manager with 5-10 years of experience in a major metropolitan area like Austin, TX, and considering the specialized nature of civil infrastructure design, the estimated annual salary range is between $120,000 and $160,000. This estimate accounts for the P.E. license requirement, management responsibilities, and the high demand for experienced engineers in the infrastructure sector.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive benefits package: Includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, providing robust health coverage for employees and their families.

• Employee wellbeing initiatives: Access to programs and resources designed to support physical and psychological health, promoting a balanced work-life environment.

• Professional growth opportunities: Support for continuous learning through training, development programs, and opportunities to gain new certifications or advanced qualifications.

• Global and cross-business unit mobility: Potential for career advancement and diverse project experiences across Ferrovial's international operations and various business sectors.

• Retirement savings plan: Likely includes a 401(k) plan with potential company matching contributions to support long-term financial planning.

• Paid time off: Generous vacation, sick leave, and holiday policies to ensure adequate rest and work-life balance.

Working Hours:

This is a full-time position, typically requiring 40 hours per week. However, given the project-based nature of infrastructure development and the responsibilities of managing design schedules, there may be instances where extended hours or weekend work are necessary to meet critical deadlines, especially during tender periods or crucial construction phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on typical compensation for similar roles in Austin, TX, factoring in the specified experience level and professional qualifications. Benefits are extrapolated from standard offerings for large, global corporations in the engineering and construction sector, aligning with the company's stated commitment to employee wellbeing and growth.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering & Construction, specifically focused on large-scale transportation infrastructure (highways, railroads, tunnels, bridges). Ferrovial also operates in airports, construction, and energy sectors, indicating a diversified yet specialized conglomerate.

Company Size: Over 24,000 professionals worldwide, with significant operations in more than 15 countries. This indicates a large, established, and global organization with substantial resources and project capabilities.

Founded: Ferrovial's history dates back to 1952, signifying a long-standing presence and deep expertise in the infrastructure sector. Being listed on major stock markets and part of sustainability indices (Dow Jones Sustainability Index, FTSE4Good) highlights a commitment to corporate responsibility, innovation, and long-term value.

Team Structure:

• The Structural Design Manager will likely be part of the US Engineering Services department, which supports both bidding and construction phases. This department is expected to be composed of specialized engineers (structural, civil) and potentially project coordinators.

• The reporting structure will likely involve reporting to a senior engineering manager or director within the US division, with direct collaboration with project managers, estimating teams, and construction superintendents.

• Cross-functional collaboration is a key aspect, requiring seamless integration with estimating, procurement, legal, and construction site teams to ensure design feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and constructability. Methodology:

• Data Analysis and Insights: Emphasizes data-driven decision-making for structural design, cost estimation, and schedule management, utilizing project data to identify risks and opportunities.

• Workflow Planning and Optimization: Focuses on efficient design processes, managing external consultants, and integrating design with construction methodologies to optimize project delivery.

• Automation and Efficiency Practices: Encourages the adoption of cutting-edge tools (like Microsoft Copilot) and innovative engineering software to enhance productivity, accuracy, and problem-solving capabilities within the design and construction lifecycle.

Company Website: https://www.ferrovial.com/en/

📝 Enhancement Note: Ferrovial's global presence and focus on sustainability suggest a corporate culture that values long-term vision, innovation, and responsible practices. The emphasis on "Design & Build" within construction implies a practical, results-oriented approach where engineering design is directly tied to project execution and client value.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a mid-to-senior level position within the operations and engineering function. It requires a blend of technical expertise in structural engineering and managerial capabilities to oversee design processes and teams. The scope includes significant responsibility for project success during critical bidding and early construction phases.

Reporting Structure: The Structural Design Manager will likely report to a Director of Engineering or a similar senior leadership role within the US Engineering Services department. They will also work closely with Project Directors and Heads of Estimating, collaborating across functional lines to ensure integrated project delivery.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct and substantial impact on the success of Ferrovial's large-scale infrastructure projects. Effective structural design management ensures the technical feasibility, safety, and structural integrity of projects, which is fundamental to winning bids, controlling costs, adhering to schedules, and maintaining the company's reputation for quality and innovation. Positive outcomes directly contribute to revenue generation and profitability.

Growth Opportunities:

• Structural Engineering Leadership: Progression to a Chief Structural Engineer or Director of Engineering role, overseeing larger design departments, multiple complex projects, or strategic engineering initiatives.

• Project Leadership: Transition into broader project management roles, leveraging deep technical understanding to lead entire Design & Build projects from inception through completion.

• Technical Specialization & Innovation: Deepen expertise in niche areas of structural engineering (e.g., advanced bridge design, seismic engineering) or lead research and development efforts for new construction techniques and materials.

• Cross-Functional Development: Opportunities to gain experience in other areas of the business, such as pre-construction services, construction execution, or business development, broadening overall industry knowledge.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for a Structural Design Manager at Ferrovial appears to offer a strong trajectory within specialized engineering management or broader project leadership within the infrastructure sector, capitalizing on the company's global scale and diverse project portfolio.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This role is based in an on-site office environment in Austin, TX. The office likely serves as a hub for engineering design, project planning, and collaboration with other corporate functions.

Office Location(s): The primary location is Austin, TX, with the potential for future relocation within the United States based on project awards. This suggests a dynamic work environment tied to project development across the country.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is designed for collaboration, facilitating interaction between structural engineers, civil engineers, project managers, and estimators. It is expected to be a professional office setting conducive to focused work and team discussions.

• Access to advanced operations tools and technology is a given, including specialized structural design software (Bentley OpenBridge Designer, CSI SAP2000, SOFiSTiK), CAD platforms (MicroStation, AutoCAD), and productivity suites (Microsoft Office, potentially Microsoft Copilot).

• Opportunities for direct interaction with the operations and construction teams are frequent, enabling real-time problem-solving and a practical understanding of construction challenges.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday. However, the demanding nature of large-scale infrastructure projects, especially during bidding and construction phases, may necessitate flexibility and occasional extended hours or weekend work to meet critical deadlines and ensure project success.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature of the role in Austin, coupled with potential future relocation, suggests a commitment to project proximity and team integration, which is crucial for effective operations and project delivery in the construction industry.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess qualifications, experience, and alignment with the job requirements. Focus on highlighting P.E. licensure, years of relevant experience, and proficiency with key design software.

• Technical Interview: This stage will likely involve detailed discussions about your structural engineering knowledge, experience with specific project types (bridges, highways), and familiarity with AASHTO and other relevant codes. Be prepared to discuss your approach to structural calculations, plan reviews, and design optimization.

• Managerial/Behavioral Interview: Assessment of your leadership capabilities, project management experience, ability to manage external teams, and problem-solving skills. Expect questions about how you handle challenges, manage stakeholders, and contribute to a collaborative team environment.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where you will present selected projects from your portfolio. Focus on showcasing your role, the complexity of the structures, design challenges overcome, and the impact of your contributions on project outcomes (schedule, cost, technical success).

• Final Interview: May involve meeting with senior leadership or key stakeholders to discuss your fit with Ferrovial's culture and long-term career aspirations.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Select High-Impact Projects: Choose 2-3 projects that best demonstrate your experience in managing structural design for large-scale civil infrastructure, ideally with a Design & Build component.

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each project, clearly outline the project's scope, your specific role and responsibilities, the key structural challenges, the solutions implemented, and the quantifiable results (e.g., cost savings, schedule adherence, technical innovations).

• Highlight Management Skills: Emphasize your experience in managing external consultants, coordinating with internal teams (estimating, construction), and ensuring quality control throughout the design process.

• Demonstrate Technical Proficiency: Be ready to discuss the engineering principles applied, the software used (Bentley OpenBridge Designer, CSI SAP2000, etc.), and your familiarity with relevant codes (AASHTO).

• Focus on Operations Integration: Explain how your design decisions considered constructability, cost-effectiveness, and schedule implications, showcasing your understanding of the broader project operations.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Problem-Solving: Be prepared for a hypothetical design challenge where you might need to outline your approach to solving a specific structural issue on a project, considering constraints and proposing solutions.

• Team Management Scenarios: Anticipate questions about managing underperforming consultants, resolving conflicts between design and construction teams, or prioritizing tasks under tight deadlines.

• Code Application: Be ready to discuss how you apply specific clauses from AASHTO or other codes to real-world design scenarios.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process emphasizes both technical acumen and management skills, with a strong focus on practical application within a project delivery context. A well-curated portfolio that highlights operational efficiency and problem-solving in design is crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Structural Design Software: Expertise in Bentley OpenBridge Designer (preferred), CSI SAP2000, or SOFiSTiK is essential for performing complex structural analyses and designs.

• CAD Software: Proficiency with Bentley MicroStation (preferred) or Autodesk AutoCAD is required for plan production and design visualization.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with tools like Microsoft Project or similar for scheduling and progress tracking.

• Collaboration Platforms: Experience with Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, or similar for team communication and document sharing.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Bill of Quantities (BOQ) Software: Experience with tools or methods for generating and verifying quantities for cost estimation and procurement.

• Reporting Tools: Ability to generate clear and concise reports on design progress, structural integrity, and compliance for various stakeholders.

• Data Analysis: Competency in analyzing project data to identify trends, risks, and opportunities for design optimization.

CRM & Automation:

• Document Management Systems: Experience with systems for organizing and managing design documents, specifications, and reports.

• Workflow Automation: While not explicitly stated, an understanding of how to streamline design workflows and leverage technology for efficiency will be beneficial.

• Integration Understanding: Awareness of how different software systems (CAD, design, project management) can be integrated to improve data flow and operational efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in industry-standard structural engineering software and CAD platforms is non-negotiable. The role also implies a need for skills in project management and data reporting to effectively manage design processes and communicate progress.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Problem-Solving: A culture that encourages creative solutions to complex engineering challenges and embraces new technologies and methodologies.

• Excellence & Quality: A commitment to delivering high-quality infrastructure projects that meet stringent safety and performance standards.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: A strong emphasis on working together across departments and with external partners to achieve common project goals.

• Integrity & Ethics: Upholding the highest standards of professional conduct, honesty, and ethical decision-making in all aspects of work.

• Efficiency & Productivity: A drive to optimize processes, manage resources effectively, and deliver projects on time and within budget.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Proactive engagement with Estimating, Construction, and other relevant departments to ensure designs are constructible, cost-effective, and aligned with project objectives.

• Open Communication: Fostering an environment where ideas, concerns, and feedback can be shared openly and constructively among team members and with stakeholders.

• Mentorship and Knowledge Sharing: A willingness to share expertise, mentor junior engineers, and contribute to the collective knowledge base of the Structures Department.

• Client-Centric Approach: Focusing on understanding and meeting client needs, building strong relationships, and delivering value through engineering excellence.

📝 Enhancement Note: Ferrovial's stated values of innovation, collaboration, and integrity are central to its operations. For a Structural Design Manager, this means actively contributing to a team-oriented environment that prioritizes technical rigor, efficient project delivery, and ethical conduct.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Complex Projects: Overseeing the structural design for large-scale, often multi-faceted infrastructure projects with tight deadlines and significant budget constraints.

• Coordinating Diverse Teams: Effectively managing relationships and deliverables from external design consultants, internal engineering teams, and construction personnel, ensuring alignment and mitigating conflicts.

• Technical Problem-Solving: Addressing unforeseen structural challenges that arise during the design or early construction phases, requiring innovative and practical solutions.

• Adapting to Evolving Standards: Staying current with changes in engineering codes, design software, and construction methodologies to ensure best practices are implemented.

• Balancing Design with Constructability: Ensuring that designs are not only technically sound but also economically viable and practical to construct in real-world conditions.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Structural Engineering: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specialized areas of bridge, tunnel, or building design through advanced training or project exposure.

• Project Management Skills: Development in leading complex projects, managing budgets, and refining leadership and stakeholder communication abilities.

• Industry Conferences & Certifications: Support for attending relevant industry events and pursuing professional certifications to enhance knowledge and network.

• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Learning about other aspects of the construction lifecycle, such as estimating, procurement, and site management, to gain a holistic understanding of project delivery.

• Leadership Development Programs: Participation in Ferrovial's internal leadership development programs to hone management and strategic thinking skills for future advancement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents significant challenges that are inherent to large-scale infrastructure projects, offering substantial opportunities for professional growth and skill development in both technical and managerial domains.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you managed a team of external consultants on a complex bridge design project. What were the key challenges, and how did you ensure successful delivery?" (Focus on your management, coordination, and quality control strategies.)

• "Walk me through your process for performing a due diligence review of a subconsultant's structural design for a major highway interchange." (Highlight your systematic approach, attention to detail, and understanding of AASHTO standards.)

• "How do you balance the need for innovative structural solutions with the constraints of budget, schedule, and constructability in a Design & Build environment?" (Emphasize your problem-solving approach, collaboration with construction teams, and cost-benefit analysis.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Ferrovial and our work in large-scale civil infrastructure?" (Research Ferrovial's recent projects, sustainability initiatives, and company values.)

• "How do you contribute to a collaborative and innovative team environment, especially when working with diverse stakeholders like estimators and construction crews?" (Provide examples of your communication style and teamwork approach.)

• "Describe your understanding of Ferrovial's commitment to quality and safety in engineering and construction." (Connect your personal values and work practices to these company priorities.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: For each project, use a STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) or similar framework. Clearly state the project context, your specific role, the actions you took, and the measurable outcomes.

• Visuals: Use clear diagrams, structural models, or photos to illustrate the complexity of the structures and your design solutions.

• Metrics: Quantify your achievements whenever possible (e.g., "reduced design time by X%", "identified cost savings of Y%", "ensured compliance with all Z code requirements").

• Focus on Operations: Emphasize how your design decisions facilitated efficient construction, met tender requirements, or solved practical operational challenges.

• Conciseness: Be prepared to present your key projects within a given timeframe, focusing on the most relevant aspects for the Structural Design Manager role.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong blend of technical expertise, project management skills, and an understanding of how design integrates with the broader operational realities of construction and bidding.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Structural Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the Ferrovial Career Site portal using the provided link.

• Tailor your resume: Highlight your P.E. licensure, specific years of experience in bridge and structures design, proficiency with key software (Bentley MicroStation, OpenBridge Designer, CSI SAP2000), and experience with AASHTO standards. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Prepare your portfolio: Select 2-3 strong projects that showcase your management of structural design for large civil infrastructure, emphasizing your role in tender proposals, design optimization, and collaboration with construction teams.

• Research Ferrovial: Understand the company's mission, recent projects (especially in the US), sustainability efforts, and core values to articulate your interest and cultural fit.

• Practice interview answers: Prepare to discuss your technical expertise, leadership style, problem-solving abilities, and experience managing design processes within a project lifecycle.

⚠️ 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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