Design Manager

About the Role

We're looking for an experienced Design Manager to join our Major Projects Team based in Darwin. In this key role, you'll lead and coordinate the design development of major capital works, refurbishment programs, commercial property developments, and precinct upgrades across ADG's airport environments.

You'll be responsible for managing the end-to-end design process from concept through to IFC documentation ensuring all design outputs meet project objectives, operational requirements, regulatory standards, and stakeholder expectations. This role is ideal for someone with a background in commercial buildings, hotel or accommodation refurbishments, mixed-use developments, or large-scale infrastructure who thrives in a dynamic, client-side environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate all design stages across a portfolio of building, refurbishment, and infrastructure projects
• Work closely with Development Managers and Project Managers to align design outcomes with scope, budget, and project milestones
• Manage consultants across architecture, engineering, and specialist disciplines, ensuring cohesive and high-quality design delivery
• Oversee preparation, coordination, and review of drawings, design reports, technical documentation, and design briefs
• Ensure all designs comply with ADG frameworks, WHS requirements, operational standards, building codes, and relevant regulations
• Support procurement processes by developing design scopes, contributing to tender documentation, and evaluating design submissions
• Identify design risks early and work with stakeholders to develop mitigation strategies
• Facilitate design workshops, stakeholder reviews, user-group sessions, and value-engineering processes
• Maintain accurate and organised documentation, correspondence, and version control throughout the design lifecycle
• Champion sustainability, safety, constructability, and operational efficiency in all design decisions

About You

• Tertiary qualifications in architecture, engineering, design management, construction, or a related discipline
• Proven experience managing design for commercial, hotel/accommodation, mixed-use, industrial, or major building projects
• Strong experience working with multi-disciplinary consultants and contractors
• Client-side design management experience is highly regarded
• Excellent communication and coordination skills, with the ability to manage multiple stakeholders
• Proficient in MS Office and experienced with common design/project management tools
• Eligible for an Aviation Security Identification Card (ASIC) and possession of a current NT driver's licence (or ability to obtain)

Why ADG?

At Airport Development Group, we take pride in creating a workplace that supports growth, balance, and wellbeing. You'll be part of a values-driven organisation that fosters collaboration, learning, and continuous improvement. From development pathways and a supportive leadership team to additional leave entitlements for eligible staff, we believe in recognising and rewarding your contribution.

We also offer access to a comprehensive wellbeing program, salary packaging options, and the opportunity to work on impactful projects that connect communities across the Northern Territory. Your work will directly support our commitment to safety, compliance, and operational excellence.

Join Us & Make an Impact

At ADG we embrace equality, diversity and inclusion. We encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, people with disabilities, and individuals from culturally diverse backgrounds.

Join a forward-thinking team where your expertise will make a real impact. If you're a self-motivated professional with a passion for Aviation Safety and Standards, we'd love to hear from you.

Agencies should note that unsolicited resumes or floated profiles will not be accepted for this position and ADG will not pay any fees related to resumes that are submitted directly to hiring managers and not through our approved process. Where appropriate, the Talent Manager will work with our preferred panel of agencies to source candidates for roles.