Design Manager - Mechanical - Data Centres

Laing O'Rourke group; City of London; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading construction company is seeking a Design Manager with a mechanical bias for a high-profile data centre project in Slough. The role demands leadership in mechanical design delivery, cooperation with diverse teams, and a proactive approach to problem-solving. Ideal candidates have a degree in Mechanical Engineering and over 5 years of relevant experience in major construction sectors. Join us to shape the future of data centres and thrive in a collaborative environment.

Benefits

Continuous learning and development opportunities

Collaborative and inclusive culture

Work on cutting-edge projects

Qualifications

• 5+ years of mechanical design management experience in major construction projects.
• Experience in data centres, mission-critical infrastructure, healthcare, or large-scale M&E projects is highly desirable.
• Chartered or working towards Chartership.

Responsibilities

• Lead the management of mechanical design activities on a data centre project.
• Ensure compliance with project requirements, safety, and technical standards.
• Collaborate with teams and consultants to develop innovative design solutions.
• Support construction activities, resolve technical queries, and ensure design intent is met.

Skills

Mechanical design management experience

Communication and stakeholder management

Design lifecycle management

Proactive and solutions-focused approach

Education

Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline

Job description

Design Manager (Mechanical Bias) – Data Centre Project, Slough

Shape the Future ofData Centre Delivery

Are you ready to take on a pivotal role in one of the most dynamic and rapidly evolving sectors in construction? We are looking for a mechanically biased Design Manager to join our expert project team on a hyperscale data centre project in Slough.

This is your opportunity to lead and influence the mechanical design delivery from early design development through to handover – ensuring technical excellence, buildability, and cutting-edge innovation.

What You'll Be Doing:

• Lead the management and coordination of mechanical design activities on a fast-paced data centre project.
• Champion design assurance processes, ensuring compliance with project requirements, safety, and technical standards.
• Collaborate closely with internal teams, supply chain partners, and consultants to develop robust, efficient, and innovative design solutions.
• Drive continuous improvement by capturing lessons learnt and identifying opportunities for design innovation.
• Be a visible site-based design leader, supporting construction activities, resolving technical queries, and ensuring design intent is met during installation and commissioning phases.

What You'll Bring:

• Degree qualified in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline; ideally Chartered or working towards Chartership.
• 5+ years of mechanical design management experience within major construction projects – experience in data centres, mission-critical infrastructure, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, or large-scale M&E projects is highly desirable.
• Strong knowledge of design lifecycle management, contractor engagement, and collaborative design development.
• A proactive and solutions-focused approach with excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.

Why Join Us?

At Laing O'Rourke, we are redefining how complex projects are delivered. You will:

• Work on cutting-edge projects with the latest in DfMA, digital engineering, and sustainable solutions.
• Be part of a supportive environment with continuous learning, development, and career progression opportunities.
• Enjoy a collaborative and inclusive culture where diversity of thought, background, and experience is celebrated.

Diversity & Inclusion at Laing O'Rourke

We are committed to creating a welcoming workplace for everyone. We embrace diversity and believe inclusion drives innovation. If you require any adjustments during the recruitment process, we're happy to discuss how we can support you.

Ready to shape the future of data centres? Apply now and be part of a project that will define industry standards for years to come.