Sr. Design Manager (Client-Side Role)

Aecom; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading global infrastructure firm in Abu Dhabi is seeking a highly motivated Sr. Design Manager to provide design oversight and coordination. The ideal candidate will have 10–15 years of professional experience, focusing on architectural design and stakeholder management. This role requires expertise in design review software and the ability to lead design workshops. Attractive benefits and a collaborative work environment are offered.

Benefits

Medical benefits

Flexible work options

Employee assistance program

Qualifications

• Minimum 10–15 years of professional experience.
• At least 3–5 years in a client-side or consultancy role overseeing design delivery.
• Strong understanding of building codes and local regulations.

Responsibilities

• Represent the Client in all design-related matters across project phases.
• Review design submissions and provide feedback.
• Lead design workshops and coordination meetings.

Skills

Architectural design

Building systems

Multidisciplinary coordination

Stakeholder management

Communication

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture

Tools

AutoCAD

Revit

BIM 360

Adobe Acrobat

Job description

Company Description

Work with Us. Change the World.

At AECOM, we’re delivering a better world. Whether improving your commute, keeping the lights on, providing access to clean water, or transforming skylines, our work helps people and communities thrive. We are the world’s trusted infrastructure consulting firm, partnering with clients to solve the world’s most complex challenges and build legacies for future generations.

There has never been a better time to be at AECOM. With accelerating infrastructure investment worldwide, our services are in great demand. We invite you to bring your bold ideas and big dreams and become part of a global team of over 50,000 planners, designers, engineers, scientists, digital innovators, program and construction managers and other professionals delivering projects that create a positive and tangible impact around the world.

We’re one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us.

Job Description

Role Overview

AECOMare seeking a highly motivated and experienced Sr. Design Manager to join the Client’s Design Team, providing design oversight, coordination, and quality assurance across multiple assets. The successful candidate will act as a key liaison between the consultants, and stakeholders, ensuring that design intent, Project brief, Operational requirements and project objectives are met throughout all design stages.

Key Responsibilities

• Represent the Client in all design-related matters across project phases (Concept, Schematic, Detailed Design, IFC).
• Review and provide feedback on design submissions, drawings, and reports from consultants and contractors.
• Coordinate with internal client teams and external stakeholders (e.g., project management, engineering, cost consultants) to ensure alignment of design with operational, regulatory, and budgetary requirements.
• Lead and participate in design workshops, coordination meetings, and value engineering sessions.
• Ensure that design complies with local codes, regulations, and client standards.
• Manage design deliverables and review cycles, maintaining quality and timely submission through platforms such as Unifier, or similar.
• Monitor and report on design progress and risks, escalating issues where necessary.
• Assist in the review of technical documentation, bid evaluations, and RFI responses if required.
• Review of mock-ups, material submittals, and sample approvals.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture or related field.
• Minimum 10–15 years of professional experience, with at least 3–5 years in a client-side or consultancy role overseeing design delivery.
• Strong understanding of architectural design, detailing, building systems, and multidisciplinary coordination.
• Familiarity with project delivery processes
• Excellent knowledge of building codes, local regulations, and international design standards.
• Proficiency in design review software and platforms (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit, BIM 360, Adobe Acrobat, etc.).
• Strong communication, coordination, and stakeholder management skills

Preferred Experience

• Experience in large-scale developments (e.g., education, hospitality or government projects).
• Ability to work independently in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities.

Additional Information

About AECOM

AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options,well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan.

AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients’ complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2024. Learn more at aecom.com.

What makes AECOM a great place to work

You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you’ll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you’ve always envisioned. Here, you’ll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community - where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity.

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.