Design Manager

Harnest is a purpose-led builder delivering social, affordable and specialist housing across Victoria. Part of the Mazzei Group, we’re driven by a clear mission: to build safe, high-quality homes that bring dignity and long-term impact to the people who live in them.

We’re seeking an experienced Design Manager to play a key role in delivering design excellence across our growing portfolio of housing projects.

The Role

Reporting to the Head of Design, the Design Manager is responsible for overseeing design resolution, documentation accuracy and consultant coordination from early design through to construction-ready documentation.

Working closely with Project Managers, Estimators and Construction teams, you’ll ensure designs are compliant, buildable and aligned with client, program and budget requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and coordinate the design process across multiple projects

• Oversee consultants including architects, engineers, building surveyors and draftspersons

• Develop and review consultant scopes of work, agreements and deliverables

• Review design documentation to ensure accuracy, consistency and compliance

• Lead and facilitate Project Control Group (PCG) meetings

• Support value management and buildability reviews

• Ensure compliance with NCC/BCA, planning approvals and relevant standards

• Maintain and continuously improve design documentation standards and templates

• Work collaboratively with project delivery teams to resolve design issues

• Identify opportunities for innovation, sustainability and improved construction methods

About You

You’re an experienced Design Manager or Project Architect who thrives in a collaborative construction environment and takes pride in delivering high-quality, buildable documentation.

You’ll bring:

• 5+ years’ experience in a Design Manager or Project Architect role within the construction industry

• A degree in Architecture, Engineering or a related discipline

• Proven experience managing consultants and design documentation

• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills

• High attention to detail and a proactive, solutions-focused mindset

• Solid knowledge of Australian building codes and regulations

• Ability to manage multiple projects and competing priorities

• Experience using project management software and Microsoft Office

Experience in SDA or specialist disability accommodation is highly regarded, though not essential. Experience across social housing, residential or other regulated environments is also a benefit.

Why Join Harnest

• Purpose-driven projects that create genuine community impact

• Supportive, values-led culture backed by the Mazzei Group

• Collaborative, multidisciplinary project teams

• Flexible working arrangements

• Long-term career development within a growing organisation

We are an equal opportunity employer and are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, culturally and linguistically diverse communities, women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, people with disability, and those who may face barriers to employment.

If you’re passionate about quality design, collaboration and building homes that make a difference, we’d love to hear from you. Connect with Louise Rorke from our Talent Team: [email protected].