Design Manager | High-Rise (Tier 1/2 Head Contractor)

Job Q; Sydney; Hybrid; AUD 180,000 - 260,000; Full time

Job summary

Randstad is sourcing a Design Manager to lead end-to-end design delivery for high-rise residential projects in Sydney, coordinating external consultants and ensuring construct-ability and regulatory compliance across DA modifications, CCs and OC sign-offs.

The role requires Tier 1/2 contractor experience, a relevant degree, and strong stakeholder management to align design with budget and program while delivering premium outcomes.

Qualifications

• Degree in Architecture, Construction Management, Civil/Structural Engineering or related field.
• Strong understanding of NCC/BCA and NSW DBP Act compliance.

Responsibilities

• Lead external consultant teams through detailed design, ECI, tender docs, and construction detailing.
• Drive construct-ability reviews and value engineering to maintain quality and efficiency.
• Coordinate with Commercial, Estimating and QS teams to align design with budget constraints.
• Oversee DA modifications (Sec 4.55), CCs, OC sign-offs per NCC/BCA/ NSW DBP Act.

Skills

Head Contractor

High-Rise

Stakeholder Mgmt

NCC/BCA

DBP Act

Civil/Structural Eng

Education

Degree in Architecture/Construction Management

Job description

#### Design Manager | High-Rise (Tier 1/2 Head Contractor)Gladesville, NSW 2111Full Time#### Job descriptionAbout the Business We are managing an exclusive search on behalf of a premier Australian Head Contractor with an outstanding reputation for delivering landmark, high-density residential and mixed-use developments across Sydney.Driven by a progressive leadership team and backed by a secured, multi-million-dollar project pipeline, they foster an environment focused on career development, commercial innovation, and construction excellence.About the Role Due to strategic growth and recent project wins, an exceptional opportunity has arisen for a dynamic Design Manager to take ownership of design delivery from initial concept/ECI through to construction, OC handover, and settlement.Working closely with tier-one architectural practices, specialist engineers, client reps, and on-site delivery teams, you will play a pivotal role in driving value engineering, construct-ability, and regulatory compliance under the NSW DBP Act framework.Key ResponsibilitiesEnd-to-End Design Delivery: Lead external consultant teams through detailed design, Early Contractor Involvement (ECI), tender documentation, and construction detailing.Construct-ability & Value Engineering: Interrogate architectural and engineering packages to identify buildability efficiencies, material innovations, and cost-effective design solutions without sacrificing quality.Commercial Alignment: Work hand-in-hand with Commercial, Estimating, and Quantity Surveying teams to align design with budget constraints and safeguard project margins.Site Integration: Support Project Managers, Site Managers, and Engineers in real time to resolve technical RFIs, manage D&C subcontractor packages (Facades, Structures, MEP), and prevent site delays.Statutory Compliance: Oversee DA modifications (Sec 4.55), Construction Certificates (CC), Crown approvals, and Occupation Certificate (OC) sign-offs in strict accordance with the NCC/BCA and NSW DBP Act regulations.Skills & Experience RequiredHead Contractor Experience: Proven track record working directly for an Australian Tier 1 or Tier 2 Head Contractor / Main Builder.High-Rise Residential Track Record: Direct experience delivering medium-to-high-density residential or mixed-use towers within Australia (NSW experience highly regarded).Tertiary Qualifications: Degree in Architecture, Construction Management, Civil/Structural Engineering, or a related discipline.Technical & Legislative Knowledge: Comprehensive understanding of the National Construction Code (NCC/BCA), Australian Standards, and current NSW DBP Act compliance requirements.Personal Attributes: Strong commercial acumen, exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills, and a proactive, solutions-oriented mindset.What's on OfferProfile-Shaping Pipeline: Work on iconic high-rise projects that will define Sydney's skyline.1/2 Head Contractor: Tier-one pipeline with long-term job stability.Career Growth: Direct access to executive directors with clear pathways for leadership advancement.Dynamic Culture: A supportive, safety-first, and collaborative team culture that recognises and rewards high performance.Top-Tier Remuneration: Highly competitive salary package tailored to experience + performance bonuses.How to Apply This search is being conducted exclusively and confidentially by Hannah Lovelock Principal Consultant Randstad. If you meet the requirements above and are ready to take the next step in your career, please click \"APPLY NOW\" to submit your resume, or contact us directly for a confidential discussion. If you would prefer to speak to me directly, I do get very busy so I ask if I don't pick up, please send me a text, and what role you are interested in and I will call you back. E: M: 0412 872 301At Randstad, we are passionate about providing equal employment opportunities and embracing diversity to the benefit of all. We actively encourage applications from any background.