Design Manager (Design Build)

As a Design Manager (Design Build) at AECOM, your primary responsibilities include leading a team of professionals in overseeing the design phase of large-scale projects, managing design efforts including schedules and budgets, and ensuring compliance with contract requirements. You will also engage in client relationship building for future project opportunities, facilitate project dispute resolution, and mentor junior staff, enhancing their skills and contributions to ensure project success.

To qualify for the Design Manager (Design Build) position at AECOM, candidates should possess a Bachelor's degree along with a minimum of ten years of relevant experience, or demonstrate equivalent combined education and experience. A California State PE License is essential, while preferred qualifications include over 20 years of transportation project experience, particularly in managing design-build delivery for complex highway projects, along with familiarity with DOT processes.

At AECOM, we understand the importance of professional development for Design Managers (Design Build). We offer award-winning training programs designed to expand your technical knowledge and leadership capabilities. Additionally, you’ll have access to a vast network of professionals and cutting-edge technology, ensuring you're equipped to take on groundbreaking projects and advance your career within a collaborative environment.

The work environment for a Design Manager (Design Build) at AECOM is dynamic, collaborative, and supportive. You'll be part of a global team that champions your growth ambitions. With respect and teamwork at the core of our culture, AECOM fosters an encouraging atmosphere where employees can freely share ideas and work together on innovative projects that have a real impact on communities.

As a Design Manager (Design Build) at AECOM, you may encounter challenges such as managing the complexity of large transportation projects, navigating contract compliance, and adjusting to changes in project requirements or risk factors. Additionally, building lasting relationships with clients and stakeholders is crucial, along with mentoring diverse staff and ensuring coordination across various project teams, all while maintaining a focus on delivering quality results under tight deadlines.

In answering this question, highlight specific projects you’ve managed, the teams involved, the complexities faced, and how you overcame challenges. Mention any methodologies you used for efficient project management and how you ensured quality outcomes.

Discuss your strategies for establishing trust and open communication with clients and stakeholders, emphasizing your ability to understand their needs and how you adapt project goals to meet those efficiently for successful collaborations.

Share your familiarity with design-build project delivery, including the advantages of this method. Describe any past projects where this approach was applied and the outcomes achieved, showcasing your understanding of its nuances.

This is your chance to illustrate your problem-solving skills. Outline your process for assessing risks related to design changes and how you've effectively implemented change management to minimize disruptions on previous projects.

Highlight specific project management software or tools you are proficient with, like Microsoft Project, Asana, or similar technologies. Explain how you leverage these tools to improve efficiency and communication within your team.

Grab their attention with a compelling story. Describe a project that posed significant challenges and articulate how you worked through the issues faced with your team, the results achieved, and any lessons learned.

Discuss your leadership style, emphasizing how you foster a positive, productive work environment. Share specific methods you use to motivate staff, whether through professional development opportunities, regular feedback, or team-building activities.

Reflect on your personal experiences with mentorship. Explain how you assess the development needs of junior staff and the strategies you implement to support their growth, ensuring they feel valued and empowered in the team.

Discuss your prioritization techniques, including workflows or frameworks you follow to juggle multiple projects while ensuring that quality is not compromised. Stress the importance of effective communication and resource allocation.

Provide insights into emerging trends in infrastructure design management, including sustainability and technology integration. Your forward-thinking perspective will illustrate your industry knowledge and strategic thinking capabilities.