Study & Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Study & Design Manager

Company: WSP

Location: Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Engineering & Project Management (Mining & Metals Operations)

Date Posted: 2026-08-19

Experience Level: Senior (10+ years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage multidisciplinary engineering studies and design projects within the mining and metals sector.

• Coordinate and oversee technical teams across mechanical, process, civil, structural, and electrical disciplines to ensure integrated project delivery.

• Drive project execution from concept development and feasibility studies through to detailed design, ensuring alignment with client objectives and WSP's standards.

• Manage project scope, budget, schedule, and key deliverables, employing robust project management methodologies for optimal outcomes.

• Foster strong client relationships and collaborate with stakeholders to deliver practical, innovative, and sustainable mining solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role sits within WSP's Mining & Metals group, a significant player in end-to-end mining solutions. The Study & Design Manager will be crucial in shaping the strategic direction and technical execution of projects, acting as a bridge between client needs and engineering capabilities. The emphasis on multidisciplinary coordination and project lifecycle management points towards a need for strong operational understanding and process-driven execution.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, coordination, and delivery of multidisciplinary engineering studies and design projects for mining clients.

• Coordinate and guide technical specialists across mechanical, process, civil, structural, and electrical engineering disciplines.

• Manage comprehensive project lifecycles, including scope definition, budget control, schedule adherence, and deliverable management.

• Facilitate critical project activities such as study workshops, risk reviews, and value engineering sessions to optimize project outcomes.

• Drive project execution excellence from initial concept and pre-feasibility stages through to comprehensive detailed design.

• Cultivate and maintain robust, collaborative relationships with key mining clients and internal/external stakeholders.

• Provide authoritative technical leadership and mentorship to project engineering teams.

• Actively support business development initiatives, identifying and pursuing opportunities for project growth and client expansion.

• Uphold and champion quality, safety, and technical excellence throughout all project delivery phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on technical leadership and project management. The role demands not only engineering acumen but also the ability to orchestrate diverse technical inputs, manage commercial aspects, and foster client confidence. This requires a deep understanding of the entire project lifecycle, from initial conceptualization to detailed engineering, with a strong emphasis on risk mitigation and value optimization.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering is a mandatory requirement.

• Chartered status or eligibility for chartership with a relevant engineering body will be highly regarded. Experience:

• Extensive professional experience (10+ years) in delivering mining, minerals processing, or heavy industrial projects.

• Proven track record in leading multidisciplinary engineering studies and design teams through various project phases.

• Demonstrated experience in managing project scope, budgets, schedules, and key deliverables. Required Skills:

• Strong technical foundation in Mechanical Engineering, with exposure to related disciplines like civil, piping, materials handling, or process infrastructure.

• Proven ability to lead and coordinate multidisciplinary engineering teams effectively.

• Expertise in managing project stages from concept studies, feasibility studies, FEED (Front-End Engineering Design), through to detailed design.

• Proficient in stakeholder management, including client liaison and internal team coordination.

• Solid understanding of project delivery methodologies, commercial drivers, and risk management principles.

• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills.

• Ability to balance technical quality, project outcomes, and client expectations in a dynamic environment. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with specific mining commodities or processing techniques relevant to the Australian market.

• Familiarity with Australian mining industry standards, regulations, and best practices.

• Exposure to business development activities and client relationship management within the mining sector.

• Experience in materials handling systems, water management systems, or process plant improvements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a Mechanical Engineering degree with broad exposure to other disciplines suggests a need for a well-rounded engineer capable of understanding and integrating diverse technical inputs. The "10+ years" experience level indicates a senior role requiring significant project leadership and decision-making authority, particularly in managing complex multidisciplinary projects from inception to completion.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrated case studies showcasing leadership in the planning and execution of multidisciplinary mining or heavy industrial projects.

• Evidence of managing project lifecycles, including scope definition, budget control, and schedule adherence for complex engineering studies and designs.

• Examples of successful coordination of diverse technical teams (mechanical, process, civil, structural, electrical) to achieve integrated project outcomes.

• Documentation or case studies illustrating involvement in concept studies, feasibility studies, FEED, and detailed design phases, highlighting your specific contributions and leadership.

• Evidence of proactive risk management, value engineering, and problem-solving applied to engineering projects. Process Documentation:

• Showcase experience in developing and implementing project execution plans, detailing workflow methodologies from concept to detailed design.

• Provide examples of how you have facilitated study workshops, risk reviews, and value engineering sessions, documenting the processes and outcomes.

• Illustrate your approach to managing project scope, budget, and schedule, including any specific tools or methodologies used for tracking and control.

• Demonstrate your ability to ensure quality, safety, and technical excellence through documented processes and adherence to industry standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role of this seniority and technical focus, a robust portfolio is critical. Candidates should prepare detailed case studies that not only showcase successful project delivery but also their specific methodologies for multidisciplinary coordination, risk management, and client engagement throughout the entire project lifecycle. Evidence of process optimization and adherence to quality and safety standards will be highly valued.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

The estimated annual salary range for a Study & Design Manager in Newcastle, NSW, Australia, with 10+ years of experience in the mining and heavy industrial sector, is AUD $150,000 - $200,000. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for senior engineering and project management roles in Australia, considering the specialized nature of mining operations and the responsibilities outlined. Factors such as specific project portfolio, candidate's exact experience, and negotiation will influence the final offer.

Benefits:

• 16 weeks paid parental leave for primary carers.

• Option to purchase up to four additional weeks of leave annually, offering enhanced work-life balance.

• Flexible working arrangements to support a hybrid work model and individual needs.

• A supportive team culture that promotes collaboration and professional development.

• Opportunities for ongoing mentoring and structured career progression within WSP's extensive network.

• Access to industry-leading specialists across multiple disciplines for continuous learning and problem-solving. Working Hours:

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

• Flexible working arrangements are available, allowing for a hybrid model and potential adjustments to daily schedules, subject to project demands and team coordination needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on current market data for senior engineering and project management roles in Australia, specifically within the mining and heavy industrial sectors. The provided benefits are directly extracted from the job description and highlight WSP's commitment to employee well-being and professional growth, which are significant attractors for experienced operations professionals.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering, Consulting, Construction, and Project Management within the Mining & Metals sector. WSP operates globally, providing future-ready solutions for infrastructure and environment.

Company Size: WSP is a large, publicly traded global company with a significant presence in Australia, indicating a stable and well-resourced organization. This size offers opportunities for diverse project involvement and career advancement.

Founded: WSP has a long history, with its origins tracing back to 1887. This longevity suggests a strong foundation, established methodologies, and a deep understanding of industry challenges and client needs.

Team Structure:

• The role is within the Newcastle Mining & Metals group, which is expanding. This implies a dynamic team environment with opportunities to influence growth and strategy.

• The team likely consists of a diverse group of engineers and project managers specializing in various disciplines relevant to mining operations.

• Reporting structure will likely involve a senior leadership position within the Mining & Metals division, with the Study & Design Manager leading project teams and collaborating with other discipline leads. Methodology:

• WSP emphasizes "future-led" solutions, suggesting a focus on innovation, sustainability, and forward-thinking project execution.

• The company's approach to project delivery involves multidisciplinary collaboration, rigorous technical standards, and strong client engagement to ensure successful outcomes.

• Data analysis and technical excellence are likely core to their methodology, ensuring projects are efficient, safe, and meet stringent quality requirements.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: WSP's global scale and long history provide a backdrop of stability and extensive expertise. The "future-led" ethos suggests a company that embraces innovation and sustainability, which is increasingly important in the mining sector. The expanding Newcastle team offers a dynamic environment where a new manager can make a significant impact.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior-level position, categorized as a Managerial or Lead role within the operations and engineering domain. It requires significant autonomy, strategic input, and the ability to lead and mentor teams. The role is pivotal in shaping project direction from early stages through to detailed execution.

Reporting Structure: The Study & Design Manager will likely report to a Director or Senior Manager within the WSP Mining & Metals division. They will, in turn, lead project-specific multidisciplinary teams, coordinating with discipline leads and potentially client representatives. This structure allows for both upward strategic influence and downward team leadership.

Operations Impact: The Study & Design Manager has a profound impact on operational efficiency, project success, and client satisfaction. By leading effective studies and designs, they directly influence project cost, schedule, safety, and long-term operational viability. Their technical leadership and strategic input can shape major capital investments and improve existing mining operations, contributing significantly to WSP's revenue and reputation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Leadership Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific mining commodities, processing technologies, or complex infrastructure design, becoming a recognized subject matter expert within WSP.

• Senior Management Progression: Advance into roles such as Principal Study & Design Manager, Engineering Director, or Project Director, with broader portfolio oversight and strategic decision-making responsibilities.

• Business Development & Client Relationship Management: Transition into roles focused on expanding WSP's client base and project pipeline within the mining sector, leveraging established relationships and technical credibility.

• Global Mobility: Explore opportunities within WSP's international network to lead projects in different regions or contribute to global best practices.

• Mentorship & Training: Take on formal mentorship roles, guiding junior engineers and contributing to WSP's internal training and development programs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The senior nature of this role implies a clear pathway for career progression, either through deepening technical expertise or moving into broader management and business development functions. WSP's global presence and commitment to employee development suggest ample opportunities for continuous learning and advancement for ambitious operations professionals.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Newcastle, NSW, with a hybrid work arrangement. This indicates a professional office environment designed for collaboration, client meetings, and focused work, complemented by the flexibility to work remotely.

Office Location(s): The primary office location is Level 3, 51-55 Bolton Street, Newcastle, NSW 2300. This central location in Newcastle likely offers good accessibility for local employees and is well-situated for engaging with regional mining clients.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The office is expected to facilitate teamwork through shared workspaces, meeting rooms, and common areas, crucial for multidisciplinary project coordination.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to WSP's standard suite of engineering design software, project management tools, and communication platforms will be provided to support efficient operations.

• Team Interaction: The hybrid model allows for structured in-office days dedicated to team meetings, workshops, and direct collaboration with colleagues, alongside remote workdays for focused individual tasks.

Work Schedule:

• A standard 40-hour work week is typical, with flexibility offered through the hybrid arrangement. This allows operations professionals to balance project deadlines with personal commitments. The ability to adjust start and end times, within reason, can support efficient data analysis and workflow management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work model is a key aspect of the work environment, balancing the need for in-person collaboration critical to multidisciplinary engineering projects with the flexibility sought by modern professionals. The Newcastle office location places the role within a significant regional hub for mining operations in Australia.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and cover letter, focusing on relevant experience in mining project management, multidisciplinary leadership, and technical engineering qualifications.

• Technical Interview: Likely conducted by engineering managers or senior technical leads, this stage will delve into your experience with feasibility studies, FEED, and detailed design, particularly within the mining sector. Expect questions on your approach to managing scope, budget, and schedule, and how you handle technical challenges.

• Case Study Presentation/Workshop: You may be asked to present a portfolio case study showcasing a complex multidisciplinary project you led. This will assess your ability to articulate project challenges, your strategic approach, the methodologies used, and the tangible outcomes achieved. Focus on demonstrating your leadership, problem-solving skills, and understanding of project lifecycle management.

• Team/Cultural Fit Interview: Discussions with potential peers and senior management to assess your collaborative style, leadership approach, and alignment with WSP's culture and values. Your ability to communicate effectively and build relationships will be evaluated.

• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership to discuss career aspirations, strategic vision, and final confirmation of suitability for the role.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Select Case Studies: Choose 2-3 of your most impactful projects that best demonstrate your experience in leading multidisciplinary studies and designs for mining or heavy industrial clients.

• Quantify Achievements: For each case study, clearly articulate the project's objectives, your role, the methodologies employed, and quantifiable results (e.g., cost savings, schedule improvements, efficiency gains, risk mitigation achieved).

• Highlight Multidisciplinary Coordination: Specifically detail how you managed and integrated the work of various engineering disciplines (mechanical, process, civil, structural, electrical) to achieve a cohesive design and project outcome.

• Demonstrate Problem-Solving: Showcase instances where you encountered significant technical or project management challenges and how you strategically addressed them.

• Focus on Impact: Emphasize the overall impact of your work on project success, client satisfaction, and WSP's business objectives.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Be prepared for hypothetical scenarios related to managing challenging project stakeholders, resolving inter-disciplinary conflicts, or addressing unexpected budget/schedule overruns.

• Technical Problem-Solving: Review common engineering challenges in mining studies and design (e.g., materials handling optimization, process efficiency improvements, water management solutions).

• Leadership & Management Scenarios: Think about how you motivate teams, delegate tasks, conduct performance reviews, and foster a collaborative work environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is crucial for this role. Candidates should prepare detailed case studies that clearly illustrate their leadership in multidisciplinary project management from concept to detailed design, emphasizing quantifiable results and problem-solving capabilities. The interview process is likely to be rigorous, assessing both technical expertise and leadership potential.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency in industry-standard project management tools such as Primavera P6, Microsoft Project, or similar for scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking.

• Engineering Design Software: Familiarity with CAD/CAE software relevant to mechanical engineering and potentially other disciplines (e.g., AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Revit, Bentley Systems software) for design review and understanding.

• Collaboration Platforms: Experience with Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for team communication and collaboration, particularly vital in a hybrid and multidisciplinary environment.

• Document Management Systems: Familiarity with systems for managing project documentation, drawings, and reports (e.g., SharePoint, Aconex, Procore).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret and leverage data from project reports, cost estimates, and schedules to inform decision-making. Familiarity with Excel for data manipulation and basic analysis.

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

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM or automation role, understanding how project data flows and integrates between different systems (e.g., from design to procurement, to site execution) is beneficial. Familiarity with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems or similar integrated platforms used in large engineering firms would be advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the role is not purely technical in terms of software development, proficiency with project management and engineering design software is essential. The ability to interpret data from these systems for reporting and decision-making, and to understand how different project systems integrate, is critical for effective study and design management.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence and Quality: A commitment to delivering high-quality, technically sound engineering designs and studies that meet rigorous industry standards.

• Safety First: A paramount focus on safety in all aspects of project execution, from design to implementation, ensuring the well-being of teams and the public.

• Collaboration and Teamwork: A belief in the power of diverse teams working together, fostering an environment where open communication and mutual support are encouraged.

• Innovation and Future-Led Thinking: An embrace of new ideas and technologies to deliver sustainable and forward-thinking solutions for clients.

• Client Focus: A dedication to understanding and meeting client needs, building strong, long-term relationships through reliable service and impactful outcomes.

Collaboration Style:

• Multidisciplinary Integration: A proactive approach to ensuring seamless collaboration between different engineering disciplines, facilitating cross-functional workshops and knowledge sharing.

• Open Communication: Encouraging transparency and regular communication channels to keep all team members and stakeholders informed and aligned.

• Constructive Feedback: Fostering a culture where feedback is welcomed and used constructively to improve processes, designs, and team performance.

• Problem-Solving Orientation: A collective drive to identify and solve challenges efficiently, leveraging the combined expertise of the team.

📝 Enhancement Note: WSP's emphasis on "future-led" solutions and its global presence suggest a culture that values innovation, sustainability, and continuous improvement. The Study & Design Manager is expected to embody these values, driving excellence in technical delivery while fostering a collaborative and safety-conscious team environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Project Complexity: Effectively coordinating diverse technical disciplines, client requirements, and project constraints on large-scale mining projects.

• Balancing Competing Priorities: Juggling technical quality, project timelines, budget limitations, and client expectations in a high-stakes environment.

• Navigating Evolving Regulations & Technologies: Staying abreast of new mining technologies, environmental regulations, and safety standards to ensure designs are compliant and future-proof.

• Client Relationship Management: Maintaining strong client trust and satisfaction, especially when facing project challenges or scope changes.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Project Management Techniques: Opportunities to refine skills in areas like risk management, cost control, and stakeholder engagement through WSP's internal training programs.

• Technical Specialization: Access to industry experts and resources to deepen knowledge in specific mining processes, materials handling, or water management systems.

• Leadership Development: Formal training and mentorship programs designed to enhance leadership capabilities, strategic thinking, and team management skills.

• Industry Engagement: Participation in industry conferences, workshops, and professional development events to stay current with trends and network with peers.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges inherent in managing large-scale mining projects provide significant opportunities for professional growth. WSP's commitment to learning and development suggests that employees will have ample resources to enhance their technical and leadership skills, preparing them for future roles within the organization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex multidisciplinary mining project you managed from concept through to detailed design. What were the key challenges, your strategic approach, and the ultimate outcomes?" (Focus on demonstrating your end-to-end project lifecycle management and problem-solving skills.)

• "How do you ensure effective communication and collaboration between diverse engineering disciplines (mechanical, process, civil, etc.) on a project, especially within a hybrid work environment?" (Highlight your communication strategies, conflict resolution techniques, and experience with collaboration tools.)

• "Walk me through your process for managing project scope, budget, and schedule. How do you identify risks and implement mitigation strategies?" (Be ready to discuss specific methodologies, tools, and your proactive approach to project control.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about WSP's 'future-led' approach, and how would you incorporate this into your role as a Study & Design Manager?" (Show your research and alignment with WSP's forward-thinking ethos.)

• "How do you foster a culture of safety and technical excellence within your project teams?" (Discuss your leadership style and commitment to WSP's core values.)

• "Describe a time you had to balance competing client demands with technical feasibility or project constraints. How did you manage the situation and what was the result?" (Prepare a concise STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) example.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each case study, clearly define the project background, your specific role and responsibilities, the challenges faced, the strategies you implemented, and the measurable results achieved.

• Quantify Your Impact: Use data and metrics wherever possible to demonstrate the success of your projects (e.g., percentage reduction in costs, improvement in efficiency, adherence to timeline).

• Highlight Leadership: Emphasize your leadership in coordinating multidisciplinary teams, managing stakeholders, and driving project execution.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about your technical decisions, problem-solving approaches, and the rationale behind your strategies.

• Showcase Understanding of WSP: Connect your experience and approach to WSP's values and project methodologies, demonstrating why you're a good fit.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on showcasing a strong blend of technical expertise, project management acumen, and leadership capabilities. Candidates must be ready to articulate their experience using structured examples and demonstrate a clear understanding of WSP's operational context and values. A well-prepared portfolio presentation is key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Study & Design Manager position at WSP:

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

• Curate Your Operations Portfolio: Select 2-3 key projects that best exemplify your experience in leading multidisciplinary mining or heavy industrial studies and designs. Ensure these case studies clearly detail your role, the methodologies used, challenges overcome, and quantifiable project outcomes.

• Optimize Your Resume: Tailor your CV to highlight keywords and responsibilities mentioned in the job description, such as "multidisciplinary engineering," "project management," "feasibility studies," "detailed design," "mining sector," and "stakeholder management." Quantify your achievements with specific metrics.

• Prepare Your Presentation: Practice articulating your portfolio case studies clearly and concisely. Be ready to discuss your approach to team leadership, risk management, and client engagement, focusing on how you drive technical excellence and project success.

• Research WSP: Familiarize yourself with WSP's Mining & Metals group, its recent projects, and its "future-led" philosophy. Understand how your skills and experience align with the company's strategic objectives and culture.

⚠️ 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.