Design Manager, Defence

About the role

Join Aurecon’s Buildings team to lead the design of next‑generation Defence facilities across Australia. You will manage multi‑disciplinary design streams from concept through construction, ensuring secure, resilient, and buildable outcomes for critical defence projects.

Key responsibilities

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

Required profile

• Degree in structural, civil, mechanical, electrical or building services engineering, or architecture.
• Typically 10+ years experience delivering complex building projects, with a strong track record in Defence or secure government facilities.
• Proven experience as a Design Manager/Lead on multi‑disciplinary projects, managing interfaces, design issues and risk.
• Strong knowledge of Australian building codes, standards and Defence/secure‑facility design requirements.
• Australian citizenship and ability to obtain or maintain Defence security clearance (e.g., NV1).

Required skills

• BIM tools and model‑based delivery.
• Digital collaboration platforms and common data environments.
• Knowledge of Australian building codes and standards.
• Defence secure‑facility design requirements.

What we offer

• Work on nation‑critical Defence projects with long‑term impact.
• People‑focused culture valuing diversity, inclusion and flexible working.
• Structured development, mentoring and leadership opportunities.
• Access to a global network of designers, engineers and advisors.