Design Program Manager

As a Design Program Manager at AECOM, you’ll oversee complex projects that often involve larger scopes and budgets, which may lead to significant change orders. Your role includes acting as the liaison with consulting firms and ensuring projects meet initial scope and budget requirements. Managing the intricacies of these projects while leading your direct reports will define your daily responsibilities.

To be considered for the Design Program Manager position at AECOM, you need a Bachelor’s degree along with at least 10 years of relevant experience. Equivalency of experience and education may also be considered. Additional preferred qualifications include experience with DSA, higher education clients, proposal development, project management software, and strong communication skills.

AECOM offers a comprehensive benefits package which varies based on your employment status. Possible benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage, life insurance, disability benefits, paid time off, stock purchase options, and a retirement savings plan. A healthy work-life balance and well-being resources are also integral parts of your experience at AECOM.

At AECOM, the work culture is built on collaboration, respect, and diversity. As a Design Program Manager, you will foster a safe environment that encourages everyone to contribute their unique perspectives and talents. The company prioritizes professional growth and offers hybrid work options to suit your lifestyle, ensuring your success as part of a motivated global team.

AECOM is committed to the growth of its employees. As a Design Program Manager, you'll have access to industry-leading technology, transformative projects, and resources that enable you to thrive professionally. The company also emphasizes mentorship and leadership development, creating paths for career advancement within a globally recognized firm.

When discussing your experience with complex project management, focus on specific examples of challenges you faced, how you strategized to overcome them, and the ultimate impact of your decisions. Highlight measurable outcomes, collaborating with your team, and how you ensured that the projects were completed within scope and budget.

In responding to a question about managing change orders, it's important to present a clear case study from your past. Explain the situation, the reasons behind the change order, and how you effectively communicated with stakeholders to navigate through the changes while minimizing disruptions and ensuring satisfaction.

When answering this, emphasize your method of utilizing project management tools, regular communication with your team, and tracking key deliverables. Discuss the checks and balances you implement to monitor progress and how you adjust strategies as necessary to align with budgetary goals.

Discuss strategies such as encouraging open communication, promoting collaboration, and setting clear priorities. Highlight how you support your team through pressure by addressing any concerns promptly and maintaining morale while focusing on the project’s goals.

In addressing conflicts, emphasize your approach to mediation and conflict resolution techniques. Illustrate with an example where you facilitated a conversation to resolve differences, ultimately steering the team back towards productive collaboration.

Share your experience with relevant project management tools such as P6. Discuss how these tools streamline communication, enhance tracking of project milestones, and improve overall project visibility, thereby reducing risks and enhancing accountability.

Think of a specific example where you identified inefficiencies in a project process and the steps you took to improve it. Describe the changes you implemented, the rationale behind them, and the positive impact on project delivery or team performance.

Client communication is crucial for project success. Discuss how you prioritize regular updates and active listening to ensure client expectations are met. Emphasize your strategies for building trust and rapport with clients throughout the project lifecycle.

When asked this question, explain the methods and tools you use to prioritize tasks. Discuss how effective time management, delegation, and periodic reassessment of priorities allows you to maintain focus on each project's objectives without sacrificing quality.

Reflect on your passion for infrastructure and project delivery. Talk about how making a meaningful impact in communities and leading diverse teams towards success fuels your motivation and dedication in your role as a Design Program Manager.