Head of Design

Cotswold Energy is an innovative company that is centred on decarbonisation of both the domestic and commercial markets, focusing on building improvements through a comprehensive renewable energy offering.

In the commercial business, we’re building a strong internal technical capability to support our expanding portfolio. We are now looking for an experienced Head of Design to lead our design function, develop our engineers, and raise design quality.

The Design Manager will take ownership of all design delivery across the company’s commercial heat pump and solar PV divisions. You’ll lead a small, developing team of mechanical and electrical design engineers, providing structure, technical guidance, and quality assurance. This is a pivotal role, combining hands‑on technical leadership with team management and coordination. You’ll ensure all design work meets the project requirements, is compliant, and is efficiently delivered.

We’re looking for someone confident with heating and cooling system design, but able to coordinate electrical design effectively. Experience in renewables (particularly heat pumps or PV) is ideal, but strong building services design experience is essential.

• Lead and manage the design team – including mechanical and electrical engineers.
• Own design delivery for all projects (post sale), ensuring high technical quality, coordination, and consistency.
• Assisting engineers with solving new and complex problems.
• Oversee heat pump design – support engineers with equipment selection, plant layouts, mechanical and electrical schematics, system integration and control and structural/groundworks details.
• Coordinate PV design – working with the PV Technical Manager and Electrical Design Engineer to ensure complete and accurate design packs are produced.
• Manage document control and issue processes – ensure all drawings, schematics, and schedules are QA checked, approved, and properly issued.
• Develop and mentor junior engineers – provide training, feedback, and support to grow their technical capability and independence.
• Implement design standards and templates – drive process improvements that improve efficiency and reduce risk.
• Collaborate with Project Managers – support technical handover and resolve design queries during delivery.
• Support groundworks design and coordination with external structural designers.
• Design support for the sales and technical managers as required.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant codes, standards, and regulations.
• Reviewing site installations to ensure conformance to design and specifications.
• Report to the Engineering Director on design progress, risks, and resource needs.

• Degree or HNC/HND in Mechanical, Electrical, Building Services, or related engineering discipline.
• 4+ years’ experience in building services or renewable energy design.
• Proven track record of leading small design teams or mentoring junior engineers.
• Excellent experience of mechanical systems design, especially heating, cooling or HVAC.
• Good understanding of electrical systems sufficient to manage and coordinate design output.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and organisation skills.
• Experience producing and reviewing technical documentation and drawings.
• 2D and/or 3D CAD experience.
• Experience in heat pump system design or low‑carbon technologies.