Aviation Project Design Manager

As an Aviation Project Design Manager at WSP, your key responsibilities include managing the design process for airport expansion projects, ensuring compliance with codes and AUS Design standards. You'll consult with clients on project tasks, provide technical responses, and collaborate with design teams to align on program requirements. Additionally, you will organize design reviews, assist in evaluating change orders, and ensure all final project deliverables meet AUS Digital Governance requirements. This role requires a proactive approach to project management and risk mitigation.

To be considered for the Aviation Project Design Manager position at WSP, candidates need a Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture or a closely related discipline, along with 7 to 10 years of relevant post-education experience. Essential qualifications also include licensure/certification in your professional field and a strong grasp of architecture design practices. Familiarity with airport facilities and local codes is preferred, and effective communication skills are crucial for success in this role.

The Aviation Project Design Manager plays a vital role in the AUS Airport Expansion and Development Program by ensuring that all design processes align with the project goals and stakeholder requirements. This position facilitates collaboration among design teams, helps manage risks, and focuses on delivering high-quality project outcomes timely. Your expertise will directly impact the advancement of airport facilities, making it safer and more efficient for travelers.

While a Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture is required, candidates with a preference for being a Registered Architect will stand out. Background experience in designing and constructing airport facilities, especially in complex operational environments, is highly valued. Familiarity with federal and state regulations as well as experience working with local municipalities can enhance your application and ensure effective management of design processes.

Essential skills for success as an Aviation Project Design Manager at WSP include strong leadership abilities, excellent communication skills, and proficiency in architecture design principles. You should be capable of managing simultaneous design processes and identifying project interdependencies. Additionally, being knowledgeable about current technology and regulatory requirements will be crucial in efficiently navigating the challenges of airport design.

When addressing this question, focus on specific projects where you have managed design processes. Highlight the tools and methodologies you used, your approach to collaboration with stakeholders, and how you ensured compliance with relevant standards and codes.

Share your strategies for prioritizing tasks such as using project management tools to track milestones, assessing the urgency and impact of each task, and communicating proactively with all team members to ensure alignment and progress.

Explain your risk management process, including how you identify potential risks early in the project cycle, your approach to utilizing feedback from various stakeholders, and how you implement risk mitigation strategies effectively.

Discuss your communication practices such as regular check-ins, utilizing collaboration tools, and formal documentation methods to ensure transparency and clarity on project progress and decisions made.

Provide a specific example detailing the issue, the various factors you had to consider, the steps you took to resolve it, and the outcomes of those actions, emphasizing your problem-solving skills.

Mention relevant software tools you are proficient in, such as CAD programs, project management software, and any other specialized tools that assist with design and collaboration in managing aviation projects.

Describe your approach to evaluating change orders, including criteria you use to assess their impact on the project scope and timeline, and how you communicate these changes to relevant stakeholders.

Talk about the procedures you follow for staying updated on regulatory changes, checking project compliance at various stages, and collaborating with legal or regulatory teams to address compliance concerns promptly.

Discuss strategies you use to set clear expectations from the start, regular communication updates, and how you handle any arising issues while keeping stakeholders informed and involved in decision-making.

Share what excites you about WSP's projects and workplace culture. Talk about your passion for airport design and how your values align with the company’s goals, demonstrating your enthusiasm for contributing to their visions.