National Aviation Design Manager

This Opportunity

WSP is currently initiating a search for a National Aviation Design Manager in Charlotte, NC to support our growing aviation practice. In this role, you will lead high-profile aviation design projects across the country while driving business development efforts to expand WSP’s presence in the aviation sector. This is an opportunity to work with a dynamic team on transformative aviation infrastructure projects while engaging with clients, pursuing new opportunities, and shaping the future of aviation design.

Your Impact

• Lead and manage the design process for major aviation projects nationwide, ensuring compliance with FAA standards, client requirements, and industry best practices.
• Develop and implement design strategies that align with program goals and stakeholder expectations.
• Serve as a key technical resource, providing guidance on airfield and landside infrastructure projects.
• Oversee and coordinate design and constructability reviews for multiple concurrent projects.
• Drive business development efforts, including identifying new opportunities, building client relationships, and developing pursuit strategies.
• Lead proposal development, including crafting technical approaches, staffing plans, and competitive pricing strategies.
• Collaborate with regional and national leadership to develop growth strategies, pursue major aviation projects, and expand WSP’s aviation portfolio.
• Represent WSP at industry events, conferences, and client meetings to enhance brand recognition and market presence.
• Lead go/no-go decision-making processes for aviation pursuits and drive capture planning strategies.
• Engage in contract negotiations, teaming agreements, and partnership development with key industry firms.
• Monitor industry trends, funding opportunities, and regulatory changes to inform business strategy and market positioning.
• Oversee project budgets, schedules, and resource allocation to ensure successful project delivery and financial performance.
• Develop and mentor technical staff, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence in aviation design.
• Support construction administration tasks, including reviewing submittals, RFIs, and field modifications to maintain design integrity.
• Assist with the evaluation of change orders, risk management, and resolution of design-related construction issues.

Who You Are

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or a closely related discipline.
• Expert knowledge of FAA design standards, aviation-specific criteria, and regulatory requirements.
• 12+ years of relevant post-education experience in civil engineering, with a focus on aviation infrastructure.
• Proven ability to lead complex design projects and manage multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong business development acumen, with a track record of winning and delivering large-scale aviation projects.
• Established relationships with key aviation clients, including airport authorities, airlines, and federal agencies.
• Experience in proposal management, pursuit leadership, and strategic growth planning.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with experience in client engagement and relationship management.
• Knowledgeable of current technology and its application in aviation design and project delivery.
• Experience in construction administration, including submittal reviews, RFIs, and change order evaluations.

Preferred Qualifications 

• Professional Engineer (PE) license.
• Experience leading national or large-scale aviation programs, including major airport expansions and rehabilitations.
• Established relationships with key aviation clients, including airport authorities, airlines, and federal agencies.
• Familiarity with alternative project delivery methods (e.g., P3, CMAR, Design-Build).
• Active participation in industry organizations such as AAAE, ACC, or ACI-NA.

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