Design Manager

About the role We’re looking for a Design Manager who enjoys being close to the action – working with regional operations teams, getting practical input from site, and helping shape designs that actually work on the ground. The role involves managing and coordinating the design functions for a range of water and other infrastructure projects – from tender stage through to delivery – across pre‑contracts and operations. You’ll support bid teams with smart, buildable design solutions and then ensure we deliver fully compliant designs that meet programme, budget and client expectations. The environment is flat, low‑ego, and you’re empowered to make decisions, move quickly and collaborate directly with consultants, clients and site crews. Key role responsibilities Lead and coordinate design teams and consultants for D&C on critical water and other infrastructure projects, including defining scopes, temporary works and commercial arrangements within budgets and delegations. Oversee design programmes and deliverables in line with tender plans, ensuring constructability, methodology and staging are fully integrated with input from regional teams and partners. Manage peer review requirements across delivery models, ensuring reviews are completed on time including internal/external reviews, approvals and stakeholder interfaces. Work closely with clients to support pre‑contract requirements and value engineering, making sure customer requirements are understood and met. Deliver fully compliant final designs and IFC drawings to the team, aligned with programme and budget. Support the regional tender and operational teams in managing tender strategies, lessons‑learnt workshops and successful bid submissions. Requirements Tertiary qualification in Engineering (or closely related discipline). About 10+ years’ experience in design management and/or water, road and contracting project management. Proven experience coordinating multi‑disciplinary designs for civil infrastructure, ideally with both design and site exposure. Well‑developed analytical, negotiation and interpersonal skills, with a collaborative mindset at the forefront. Ability to interpret and apply contracts, specifications and design requirements in a practical way and support commercial decision‑making. Working knowledge of current legislation, including health and safety and environmental legislation. A positive, enthusiastic approach – proactive, solutions‑focused and comfortable in a fast‑moving regional contracting environment. Benefits Medical insurance and life insurance after the eligibility period. KiwiSaver employer contributions after service milestones, up to 7%. Parental leave top‑up payment with additional return‑to‑work support. Ongoing training and development, with clear career growth and progression opportunities. Great discounts at a wide range of retailers. How to apply If you’re keen to take ownership of design on meaningful regional projects, stay close to delivery, and be part of a low‑ego, high‑performing team, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now with your CV and a short cover letter highlighting your design management and construction delivery experience. All successful candidates must undergo and pass a pre‑employment medical and drug screen prior to employment. We are driven by fresh ideas and opportunities. We aim to do more and do better – for our people, our communities and the countries that we work in. #J-18808-Ljbffr