Design Manager

Location: Trafford Park

Design Manager

Company:
Tier 1 Civil Engineering Contractor

Location:

Trafford House, Chester Road, Old Trafford, Manchester (M32)
Salary: £70,000 – £75,000 (maximum)

About the Company

* A leading privately owned UK civil engineering and infrastructure specialist with over four decades of experience

* Operates across major sectors including water, transport, energy, and the built environment

* Delivers projects through frameworks, alliances, joint ventures, and standalone schemes

* Known for a strong direct delivery model, employing and developing in-house engineering and construction teams

* Employs over 1,000 professionals nationwide and is recognised for its people-first culture

* Accredited as a Gold Investor in People, with a strong focus on inclusion, safety, and long-term career development

The Role – Design Manager

* Lead the delivery of technically compliant, safe, and cost-effective engineering design solutions

* Take full ownership of design quality, compliance, and suitability throughout the project lifecycle

* Manage and coordinate external design consultants and multi-disciplinary engineering teams

* Support project teams with concept, basic, and detailed designs for water and wastewater infrastructure

* Ensure designs meet client requirements, statutory standards, and regulatory obligations

* Control and manage engineering budgets, programmes, and change processes

* Identify, mitigate, and manage design risks while recognising value engineering opportunities

* Ensure all design outputs comply with health, safety, quality, and environmental standards

* Oversee BIM processes and common data environments

* Support supply chain engagement and specialist design input

* Collaborate closely with project managers, site teams, and senior engineering stakeholders

* Provide technical assurance, challenge designs, and review reports and survey data

* Understand and manage temporary works design responsibilities and interfaces

Key Requirements

* Minimum of 10 years’ experience in design and engineering management

* Strong background in water sector infrastructure, including foul drainage and potable water mains

* Degree or HNC (or equivalent) in Civil Engineering

* Chartered or Incorporated Engineer, or actively working toward professional membership

* Proven leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills

* Experienced in BIM, design management, and multi-disciplinary coordination

* Self-motivated, commercially aware, and quality-driven

What’s on Offer

* Long-term job security through major infrastructure frameworks

* Competitive salary and benefits package including pension, private medical, and life assurance

* Excellent career progression with a strong internal promotion culture

* Flexible benefits, wellbeing support, and professional development opportunities