Technical Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Technical Design Manager

Company: Mace

Location: Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

Job Type: Full-time, Regular

Category: Design Management / Project Management (Infrastructure/Aviation)

Date Posted: 2026-05-20T21:07:56

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the strategic planning, design, and execution of complex, large-scale infrastructure programs, ensuring alignment with critical time, quality, and budget objectives.

• Orchestrate and manage multidisciplinary internal and external design teams, fostering collaboration and ensuring clear, actionable deliverables and efficient resource allocation.

• Drive robust design governance, performance reporting, and continuous process improvement initiatives to enhance project outcomes and operational efficiency.

• Cultivate strong senior stakeholder and client relationships, acting as a key liaison throughout the project lifecycle and supporting business development efforts.

• Champion best practices, professional development, and sustainability principles, specifically net-zero carbon, embedded within project delivery methodologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the original job title is "Technical Design Manager," the responsibilities and requirements strongly indicate a senior role within project and design management, particularly for large-scale infrastructure. The emphasis on aviation program experience suggests a focus within that sector of infrastructure. The role will likely involve significant cross-functional leadership and strategic decision-making, positioning it within the broader GTM (Go-To-Market) strategy for project delivery services.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive project design strategies, ensuring alignment with overall program objectives and client expectations.

• Lead and coordinate the activities of internal and external design consultants, engineers, and technical specialists to ensure seamless project progression.

• Manage consultant appointments, including contract negotiation, performance monitoring, and relationship management.

• Oversee the establishment and adherence to design governance frameworks, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and quality standards.

• Implement effective performance reporting mechanisms to track design progress, identify risks, and communicate key metrics to senior stakeholders and the client.

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives within the design management process, leveraging data analytics and feedback loops to optimize workflows.

• Champion the integration of net-zero carbon principles and other sustainability best practices into all phases of the design and construction lifecycle.

• Support business development activities by contributing technical expertise and insights for new project opportunities.

• Manage day-to-day operations of the design management function, ensuring efficient resource deployment and problem resolution.

• Foster a culture of safety, integrity, and client focus within the design team and across project stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities listed are typical for a senior design manager overseeing complex projects. The emphasis on "Net-Zero Carbon principles" indicates a focus on sustainable design and construction practices, which is a growing area of importance in the infrastructure and construction industries. The need to support business development suggests this role may also have a commercial aspect.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management, or a related technical field.

Experience:

• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in design management, project management, or a related technical leadership role, with a significant portion spent on large-scale infrastructure or complex program delivery.

• Proven track record of successfully managing engineering frameworks and providing client-side assurance during construction phases.

Required Skills:

• Design Strategy & Planning: Ability to define and execute robust design strategies aligned with project goals and constraints.

• Design Management Expertise: Proven capability in managing the entire design lifecycle, from concept through to construction documentation.

• Stakeholder Engagement & Management: Exceptional ability to build and maintain strong relationships with senior clients, consultants, and internal teams.

• Resource Allocation & Team Leadership: Skill in effectively allocating resources and leading multidisciplinary technical design teams to achieve optimal performance.

• Design Governance & Performance Reporting: Expertise in establishing and maintaining design governance frameworks and delivering clear, data-driven performance reports.

• Process Improvement Methodologies: Experience in identifying and implementing process enhancements for greater efficiency and quality.

• Sustainability Principles: Strong understanding and practical application of net-zero carbon principles in design and construction.

• Consultant Management: Proficiency in managing consultant appointments, contracts, and performance.

Preferred Skills:

• Aviation Program Experience: Significant experience within aviation infrastructure projects, demonstrating an understanding of the unique complexities and regulatory environments.

• Major Programme Leadership: Proven ability to lead and deliver on multiple large-scale, high-value programs concurrently.

• Client-Side Assurance: Experience in providing assurance and oversight on behalf of clients within construction projects.

• Execution Planning: Expertise in developing detailed and actionable execution plans for complex engineering services.

• Net-Zero Carbon Implementation: Practical experience in embedding and measuring net-zero carbon strategies within project delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "10+ years" experience level, coupled with the need for "Major Programme Leadership" and "Aviation Programme experience," indicates a senior-level strategic role. The emphasis on "engineering frameworks" and "client-side assurance" points towards a need for deep technical understanding and regulatory compliance oversight. The preferred skills in aviation are critical for this specific project context.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Delivery Case Studies: Showcase a minimum of 3-5 significant infrastructure or aviation projects managed, detailing your specific role, responsibilities, and impact.

• Design Strategy & Planning Examples: Include documentation or summaries of design strategies you've developed and implemented, highlighting how they met project objectives.

• Process Improvement Initiatives: Provide evidence of process optimization efforts, detailing the problem, your solution, and the quantifiable benefits (e.g., time saved, cost reduction, quality improvement).

• Stakeholder Management Frameworks: Demonstrate your approach to stakeholder engagement, potentially through case studies or documented communication strategies.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Examples of documented design workflows, highlighting how you’ve streamlined processes, improved collaboration, or enhanced efficiency.

• Design Governance Protocols: Showcase your understanding of design governance through examples of implemented protocols, reporting structures, or quality assurance procedures.

• Performance Measurement & Reporting: Present examples of performance dashboards, reports, or metrics used to track design progress and communicate key information to stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role of this seniority, a portfolio is crucial. It should not just list projects but demonstrate strategic thinking, problem-solving capabilities, and quantifiable achievements in design and project management. Emphasis should be placed on demonstrating leadership in complex environments, particularly within aviation or similar highly regulated sectors.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: AUD $200,000 - $280,000 per annum (estimated)

Benefits:

• Hybrid Working Options: Flexibility to balance on-site and remote work, promoting work-life integration.

• Flexible Working Options: Potential for adjusted working hours or schedules to accommodate personal needs, subject to project demands.

• Part-Time Options: While the role is listed as full-time, Mace may consider offering part-time arrangements for exceptional candidates, depending on project needs and specific circumstances.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for continuous learning, training, and professional certifications relevant to design and project management.

• Health and Wellbeing Programs: Access to comprehensive health insurance and wellbeing support initiatives.

• Superannuation Contributions: Standard employer superannuation contributions as per Australian regulations.

• Performance Bonuses: Potential for performance-based bonuses tied to project success and individual contributions.

Working Hours: Approximately 40 hours per week, with flexibility expected to meet project deadlines and critical milestones.

📝 Enhancement Note: The estimated salary range is based on industry benchmarks for senior Technical Design Managers or Program Directors in major infrastructure projects in Sydney, Australia, considering the 10+ years of experience and specialized aviation program requirements. Mace is known for offering competitive packages, and the inclusion of flexible and hybrid working options aligns with modern workplace trends.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction & Engineering Consultancy, Infrastructure Development

Company Size: 10,000+ Employees (Global)

Founded: 1990

Company Description: Mace is a global expert in consulting and construction, operating across the full property and infrastructure lifecycle. They focus on unlocking potential in every person or project, aiming to redefine the boundaries of ambition through their services.

Company Specialties: Construction Management, Project Management, Consultancy, Infrastructure, Property Development, Expert Witness Services, Digital Transformation, Sustainability.

Team Structure:

• The Technical Design Manager will likely be part of a larger program management or project delivery team.

• This team will include project directors, program managers, design leads, engineers, construction managers, and commercial specialists.

• The role will require close collaboration with client representatives, internal Mace leadership, and external consultant teams.

Methodology:

• Mace emphasizes a values-driven approach, with core values of Safety First, Client Focus, Integrity, and Creating Opportunity.

• The company promotes a culture of continuous improvement and professional development.

• They champion best practices in project delivery, sustainability (including net-zero carbon), and digital integration.

• Data-driven decision-making and robust performance reporting are integral to their project management methodologies.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Mace's established presence and global reach in construction and consultancy suggest a structured yet dynamic work environment. The emphasis on values like "Integrity" and "Client Focus" is crucial for candidates in regulated sectors like aviation infrastructure. The company's commitment to sustainability and digital transformation indicates an forward-thinking approach to project delivery.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior Management / Principal Level

This role represents a significant step into senior leadership within the operations and project delivery sphere. It demands strategic oversight, extensive experience in complex program management, and the ability to influence key decisions. The "Technical Design Manager" title, combined with the responsibilities, positions this as a pivotal role responsible for the successful technical and design execution of a major infrastructure program.

Reporting Structure:

The Technical Design Manager will report to a senior leader within the Mace program delivery team, likely a Program Director or Head of Design for the specific project or portfolio. They will, in turn, manage and lead internal and external design teams, consultants, and potentially other project management professionals.

Operations Impact:

The operations managed by this role directly impact the overall success of a large-scale infrastructure program. Effective design strategy, governance, and delivery are critical for:

• Meeting stringent time, quality, and budget targets.

• Ensuring client satisfaction and fostering long-term relationships.

• Upholding Mace's reputation for delivering high-quality, complex projects.

• Contributing to the successful realization of significant community and infrastructure benefits.

Growth Opportunities:

• Program Director: Progression to overseeing larger, more complex programs or multiple programs.

• Head of Design/Technical Director: Leading the design function across a broader portfolio or a specific sector (e.g., aviation infrastructure).

• Senior Consulting Roles: Leveraging expertise to advise clients on strategic project delivery and technical challenges.

• Business Development Leadership: Taking on roles focused on securing new major projects and expanding Mace's service offerings.

• Specialization in Sustainability: Developing deeper expertise in sustainable infrastructure and net-zero carbon solutions, becoming a recognized leader in the field.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career trajectory for a successful Technical Design Manager at a firm like Mace is typically towards broader program leadership or specialized technical directorships. The role provides a strong foundation for advancing within the infrastructure and construction consultancy sector, particularly in areas of strategic project execution and sustainability.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid Work Environment

The role is based in Sydney, Australia, with a hybrid working arrangement. This implies a combination of working from a Mace office, client sites, and remotely.

Office Location(s):

• Mace likely has a corporate office presence in Sydney, which would serve as a primary hub for meetings, team collaboration, and administrative tasks.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Expect a dynamic workplace that encourages collaboration among diverse teams, including project managers, engineers, designers, and client representatives. The hybrid model will necessitate effective virtual collaboration tools.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to Mace's suite of project management software, design collaboration platforms, BIM (Building Information Modeling) tools, and data analytics dashboards will be standard. Proficiency in these tools is expected.

• Operations Team Interaction: Regular interaction with project teams, senior management, and client stakeholders is a given. The role requires strong communication and interpersonal skills to navigate these relationships effectively.

Work Schedule:

The standard working hours are approximately 40 hours per week. However, given the nature of large-scale infrastructure projects and the hybrid arrangement, flexibility is crucial. This may involve extended hours during critical project phases, early morning site visits, or late-afternoon client calls to accommodate different time zones or stakeholder availability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role requires candidates to be self-disciplined, organized, and proficient with remote collaboration tools. The emphasis on client-site interaction underscores the importance of understanding the practicalities of construction and infrastructure delivery.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Initial Screening: HR or a recruitment specialist will review applications and CVs against the core requirements.

2. Hiring Manager Interview: A detailed discussion with the Hiring Manager (likely a Program Director or Senior Manager) to assess technical expertise, experience, and cultural fit. This stage will probe your understanding of design management, infrastructure projects, and team leadership.

3. Technical/Case Study Assessment: Candidates may be asked to complete a technical assessment or present a case study from their portfolio. This will focus on problem-solving, strategic thinking, and your approach to managing complex design challenges.

4. Panel Interview: A final interview, potentially with a panel including senior leaders from Mace and potentially the client, to evaluate strategic thinking, leadership capabilities, and alignment with Mace's values.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure for Impact: Organize your portfolio by project type or by key responsibility area (e.g., Design Strategy, Team Leadership, Process Improvement).

• Quantify Achievements: For each project, clearly articulate your role, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented, and the quantifiable results (e.g., % cost savings, % time reduction, quality improvements, sustainability metrics achieved).

• Highlight Key Skills: Ensure your portfolio directly showcases your experience in design governance, stakeholder management, aviation programs (if applicable), and net-zero carbon principles.

• Demonstrate Strategic Thinking: Show how you approached challenges from a strategic perspective, not just an operational one.

• Conciseness is Key: Prepare a concise overview presentation of your portfolio, ready to be delivered within a specified timeframe.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Be prepared for questions that present hypothetical project challenges (e.g., significant design delays, budget overruns, stakeholder conflicts) and ask how you would address them.

• Process Optimization Scenarios: Anticipate questions about how you would improve a specific design process or implement a new technology.

• Leadership and Team Management: Prepare examples of how you've led, motivated, and managed diverse technical teams, especially under pressure.

• Net-Zero Carbon Integration: Be ready to discuss practical strategies for embedding sustainability into design and construction processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a senior role like this will be rigorous. Candidates must be prepared to articulate their experience with concrete examples and demonstrate a deep understanding of infrastructure project delivery, design management best practices, and Mace's core values. The portfolio is a critical component and should be meticulously prepared.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: e.g., Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Asana, Monday.com for planning, scheduling, and resource management.

• Design Collaboration Platforms: e.g., Autodesk BIM 360, Bentley ProjectWise, Procore for document management, model sharing, and collaborative workflows.

• BIM Software: Proficiency with Building Information Modeling (BIM) tools such as Autodesk Revit, Navisworks, or similar for 3D modeling, clash detection, and visualization.

• Document Management Systems: Robust systems for organizing and controlling project documentation, ensuring version control and accessibility.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analytics Tools: e.g., Microsoft Power BI, Tableau, Excel for analyzing project data, performance metrics, and generating insights.

• Reporting Dashboards: Experience in creating and interpreting dashboards for tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) related to design progress, budget, quality, and sustainability.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how project pipelines and client relationships are managed within a CRM context could be beneficial.

• Workflow Automation: Familiarity with tools or methodologies for automating repetitive tasks within the design or project management workflow to improve efficiency.

• Integration Tools: Understanding of how different software systems (e.g., BIM to PM software) can be integrated to ensure seamless data flow.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with BIM and advanced project management software is essential for managing complex infrastructure projects. The ability to leverage data analytics for performance reporting and decision-making is also a key requirement. Mace, as a large consultancy, will likely employ sophisticated digital tools.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First - Going Home Safe and Well: A paramount value at Mace. Candidates must demonstrate a strong commitment to safety protocols, risk management, and promoting a safe working environment for all team members. This translates to diligent risk assessments in design and construction oversight.

• Client Focus - Deliver on Our Promise: This means understanding client needs deeply, ensuring deliverables meet or exceed expectations, and building enduring relationships. For this role, it involves proactive engagement and ensuring the design perfectly aligns with client objectives and contractual obligations.

• Integrity - Always Do the Right Thing: Upholding ethical standards, compliance with regulations, and transparency in all dealings. This is especially critical in highly regulated sectors like aviation and for a large consultancy like Mace.

• Create Opportunity - For Our People to Excel: Fostering a culture of continuous improvement, learning, and professional growth. This role is expected to mentor junior staff and contribute to the development of the wider Mace team.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role demands seamless collaboration with engineering, construction, commercial, and client teams. Effective communication and a team-oriented mindset are crucial.

• Process Review & Feedback: A culture that encourages constructive feedback on processes and designs to drive continuous improvement. Openness to diverse perspectives is key.

• Knowledge Sharing: Actively participating in sharing best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise across project teams and the wider Mace organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: Alignment with Mace's core values is non-negotiable. Candidates should be prepared to articulate specific examples of how they have embodied these values in previous roles, particularly relating to safety, client satisfaction, and ethical conduct.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Complex Stakeholder Landscapes: Navigating the diverse interests and expectations of multiple senior stakeholders, including clients, regulatory bodies, and internal Mace leadership.

• Balancing Competing Project Demands: Effectively managing trade-offs between time, cost, quality, and sustainability goals, especially on large-scale, high-pressure projects.

• Ensuring Compliance in Regulated Environments: Adhering to stringent regulations and quality standards inherent in major infrastructure and aviation projects.

• Driving Net-Zero Carbon Integration: Successfully embedding and measuring net-zero carbon goals within established project delivery frameworks, which may require overcoming resistance to change.

• Hybrid Team Management: Effectively leading and motivating a multidisciplinary team operating in a hybrid work environment, ensuring consistent communication and productivity.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Project Leadership: Opportunities to lead increasingly complex and high-profile projects, enhancing strategic decision-making and program management skills.

• Sustainability Specialization: Deepen expertise in sustainable design and construction, potentially leading Mace's efforts in net-zero carbon initiatives within the infrastructure sector.

• Industry Conferences & Certifications: Support for attending relevant industry events, workshops, and pursuing advanced certifications in project management or specialized technical fields.

• Mentorship Programs: Access to senior leaders within Mace for mentorship, guidance, and career development advice.

• Cross-Sector Exposure: Potential to gain experience across different types of infrastructure projects, broadening technical knowledge and market insight.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for senior roles in major infrastructure projects. Candidates should view these as opportunities to demonstrate their problem-solving acumen and leadership resilience. The growth opportunities highlight Mace's commitment to developing its talent.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to developing a comprehensive design strategy for a major infrastructure program, considering time, budget, quality, and sustainability constraints." (Focus on methodology, stakeholder input, risk assessment)

• "How would you lead and motivate a multidisciplinary technical design team, especially in a hybrid work environment, to ensure optimal performance and adherence to project deadlines?" (Highlight leadership style, communication strategies, performance management)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "How do Mace's core values (Safety First, Client Focus, Integrity, Create Opportunity) align with your own professional principles and past experiences?" (Provide specific examples for each value)

• "What is your understanding of net-zero carbon principles in the context of infrastructure development, and how would you champion their implementation within a project?" (Demonstrate knowledge and proactive approach)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Thematic Approach: Select 2-3 key projects that best showcase your capabilities in design strategy, leadership, and impact, particularly relevant to infrastructure/aviation.

• Storytelling: Frame each project as a narrative: the challenge, your solution, and the outcome. Use data to support your achievements.

• Focus on Process & Impact: Clearly articulate the design processes you managed, any improvements you implemented, and the quantifiable results (e.g., efficiency gains, cost savings, quality improvements).

• Q&A Readiness: Be prepared to answer in-depth questions about your role, decisions made, and lessons learned for each project presented.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should thoroughly research Mace, its recent projects, and its stated values. Preparing specific examples that demonstrate leadership, strategic thinking, and problem-solving within the context of large-scale infrastructure and aviation is crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight your most relevant experience in large-scale infrastructure, design management, stakeholder engagement, and any aviation program experience. Ensure your portfolio is well-organized and ready for presentation, showcasing your most impactful projects.

• Resume Optimization: Craft your resume to strategically include keywords from the job description such as "Design Strategy," "Design Management," "Stakeholder Engagement," "Infrastructure," "Aviation Programme," and "Net-Zero Carbon." Quantify your achievements wherever possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions. Prepare detailed examples for your portfolio presentation, focusing on strategic impact and process improvements.

• Company Research: Deeply understand Mace's mission, values, and recent projects. Prepare thoughtful questions about the specific Sydney infrastructure program, team dynamics, and the company's approach to sustainability and innovation.

⚠️ 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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