Design Manager - Civils & Geo - Substations

Are you ready to shape the future of the UK's energy infrastructure? Laing O'Rourke is delivering major elements of the Great Grid Upgrade
, one of the most significant infrastructure programmes in decades, strengthening and modernising the electricity network to enable a greener, more resilient future.

As Our Design Manager, You Will

• Lead and coordinate civils and geotechnical design activities across the project lifecycle—from early concept through to handover.
• Ensure all design information is delivered accurately, on time, and in line with Laing O'Rourke's design management procedures.
• Work closely with internal teams, designers, and supply chain partners to drive collaboration, technical clarity, and an optimised design.
• Oversee design reviews, change management, technical assurance, and statutory compliance.
• Support construction delivery through proactive engagement, risk management, and clear communication.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement, sustainability, safety, and innovation.

• A degree in Civil Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, Structural Engineering, or similar.
• Chartered status (or working towards chartership).
• 5+ years' experience managing multidisciplinary design packages.
• Strong capability in design governance, programme management, and technical assurance.
• Experience working across complex infrastructure or energy projects.
• A collaborative, solutions‑focused mindset with the ability to influence and enable others.
• A passion for innovation, sustainability, and digital ways of working.

• Pushing the boundaries of modern engineering
• Delivering sustainable, future‑ready solutions
• Using digital and innovative technologies to transform construction
• Supporting diverse talent and fostering an inclusive culture

You will play a key role in a nationally critical programme that directly contributes to the UK's net‑zero ambitions.

Apply now or reach out directly for a confidential conversation. Let's create the infrastructure of tomorrow—together.

Laing O'Rourke are an international engineering and construction company delivering state‑of‑the‑art infrastructure and building projects for clients in the UK, Middle East and Australia. With over 150 years of experience, we harness the power of our heritage to deliver certainty, reliability and quality for our clients.

As part of the Disability Confident scheme, we would like to enable access to candidates with long term conditions and disabilities through the ‘Offer an interview scheme'. This supports applicants that meet the essential criteria by offering an interview for the advertised position. Please let us know if you would like to opt in to this scheme and let us know if you require any adjustments for the interview process.

We want to ensure our recruitment process is accessible to all. If you need the application form in an alternative format or would like to know more about our recruitment process, please email re