Senior Design Manager - Civils & Geo & Science & Research

Laing O'Rourke group; Oxford; On-site; GBP 80,000 - GBP 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A major construction firm in Oxford is searching for a Senior Design Manager to join a significant life sciences project. This role involves leading design material from RIBA Stage 3, conducting audits, and collaborating with stakeholders to optimize solutions. Candidates should have a proven track record in complex projects, with preferred experience in laboratories and main contractor settings. The firm emphasizes diversity and inclusion, and offers an innovative environment for its team.

Qualifications

• Experience in main contractor environments is preferred.
• Healthcare sector experience is transferable.
• Familiarity with major civils projects is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead and review design material from RIBA Stage 3 onwards.
• Conduct technical audits of contractor designs focusing on buildability.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to optimize design solutions.
• Support design development through pre-construction and delivery phases.

Skills

Proven track record on large-scale, complex projects

Laboratory experience

Strong focus on buildability

Multi-disciplinary coordination

Job description

Overview

Location: Oxford
Project Value: £300M–£500M
Sector: Life Sciences | Major Civils | Laboratories

We are seeking Senior Design Managers to join a flagship life sciences project with significant civil engineering and complex building elements, including laboratories, an energy centre, and a basement car park.

Responsibilities

• Lead and review design material from RIBA Stage 3 onwards.
• Conduct technical audits of contractor designs with a strong focus on buildability.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to optimise design solutions and mitigate risk.
• Support design development through pre-construction and delivery phases.

Ideal Experience

• Proven track record on large-scale, complex projects.
• Laboratory experience preferred; healthcare sector experience transferable.
• Strong background in main contractor environments.
• Familiarity with major civils and multi-disciplinary coordination.

Why Join Us

• Be part of a high-profile, confidential project shaping the future of life sciences.
• Work with industry-leading teams in a collaborative, innovative environment.

Our Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

We are proud to be a Disability Confident Level 3 Employer, committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and ensure reasonable adjustments are available throughout the recruitment process and employment.