Design Manager, Defence

Aurecon; Southwestern Ontario; On-site; CAD 110,000 - 147,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm is seeking a Design Manager to oversee multi-disciplinary design management for complex Defence projects. The role involves coordinating teams, managing risks, and engaging with stakeholders to deliver high-impact solutions. Candidates should have at least 10 years of relevant experience and a degree in engineering or architecture, along with strong knowledge of Australian building codes. Join a collaborative culture with opportunities for professional growth in a vital sector.

Benefits

Structured development opportunities

Flexible working arrangements

Mentorship and leadership development

Qualifications

• 10+ years experience in design and delivery of complex building projects.
• Experience in Defence or secure government projects.
• Strong knowledge of Australian building codes.

Responsibilities

• Lead design management from concept to construction.
• Coordinate multi-disciplinary teams for Defence projects.
• Engage with stakeholders for technical workshops.

Skills

Design management

Project coordination

Client engagement

BIM tools familiarity

Safety and quality focus

Education

Degree in engineering or architecture

Tools

BIM software

Job description

Imagine shaping the next generation of Defence facilities – and doing it as part of a connected, capable and future-ready Buildings team.

At Aurecon, we’re an engineering, design and advisory company helping clients solve some of the world’s most complex challenges and re-imagine a better future. Defence is a key part of that story – from secure, resilient bases to specialised training and operational facilities.

How will your ideas shape what’s next?

• Lead multi-disciplinary design management (structure, building services, civil, architecture and specialist disciplines) from concept through to construction
• Own the design management plan, scope, program, budget, risk and change processes for complex Defence projects
• Coordinate inputs from Aurecon teams across Australia and offshore, ensuring integrated, clash-free and buildable design solutions
• Champion digital engineering and model-based delivery (BIM and common data environments) across the design lifecycle
• Engage directly with Defence and other key stakeholders, facilitating design reviews, technical workshops and approvals
• Provide technical leadership, coaching and guidance to design managers, engineers and drafters in the Buildings team
• Embed safety, security, quality and sustainability in all design decisions

What you will bring

You’ll be a senior design leader who enjoys working on complex, high-impact projects in a collaborative environment.

Specifically, you will have :

• Degree qualification in structural, civil, mechanical, electrical or building services engineering, or architecture
• Significant experience (typically 10+ years) in the design and delivery of complex building projects, with a strong track record in Defence or other secure government facilities
• Proven experience as a Design Manager / Design Lead on multi-disciplinary projects – coordinating interfaces, resolving design issues and managing risk
• Strong working knowledge of Australian building codes and standards, and Defence / secure-facility design requirements
• Confidence engaging directly with clients, user groups, contractors and sub-consultants – including in live Defence environments
• Familiarity with BIM tools and digital collaboration platforms, and a passion for better, more efficient ways of delivering projects
• Australian citizenship is essential
• Existing Defence security clearance (e.g. NV1) or the ability to obtain and maintain one

Why join Aurecon?

At Aurecon you will :

• Work on nation-critical Defence projects with long-term impact
• Be part of a people-focused culture that values diversity, inclusion and flexible working arrangements.
• Access structured development, mentoring and leadership opportunities within our Buildings and Defence markets.
• Join a global network of designers, engineers and advisors who are re-imagining engineering and design every day.

Ready to bring Defence projects to life?

If you’re a proven design leader looking to step into a visible, client-facing role shaping Defence facilities across Australia – we’d love to hear from you.