Design Manager

The Design Project; Nottingham; On-site; GBP 45,000 - GBP 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading infrastructure firm is seeking a Design Manager to coordinate crucial infrastructure design projects in Nottingham. This role requires managing design efficiency, liaising between teams, and ensuring compliance with company standards. The successful candidate will possess strong leadership, communication skills, and a Level 4 qualification in construction, along with experience in design delivery. A competitive salary range of £45,000 to £60,000 is offered, reflecting the importance of design quality and project success.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Career progression opportunities

Professional development

Qualifications

• Minimum relevant Level 4 qualification in a construction-related field.
• Proven track record in design coordination within the construction industry.
• Strong understanding of construction methodologies and project management.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the detailed design process for critical infrastructure projects.
• Manage technical design coordination to maximize project quality and revenue.
• Ensure design documentation accuracy through the company's document management system.

Skills

Pro-active management

Leadership skills

Analytical approach

Excellent communication

Problem-solving capabilities

Understanding of BIM

Education

Level 4 qualification in construction

Membership of a professional body (e.g., CIOB)

Tools

AutoCAD

Revit

Document Management Systems

Project Management Software

Job description

Job Title: Design ManagerCompany: United InfrastructureLocation: Nottingham, Midlands, United KingdomJob Type: Full-timeCategory: Design & Engineering Management / Construction OperationsDate Posted: 2026-01-20T10:57:38.926Experience Level: 5-10 YearsRemote Status: On-site

• Oversee and coordinate the detailed design process for critical infrastructure projects, ensuring alignment with company standards, regulatory compliance, and program objectives.
• Manage technical design coordination, driving efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and buildability to maximize project revenue and quality.
• Act as a key liaison between design teams, subcontractors, commercial, and construction departments, facilitating seamless information flow and issue resolution.
• Ensure all design documentation is accurate, up-to-date, and managed efficiently through the company's document management system.
• Uphold company values throughout all design and coordination activities, contributing to the successful revitalization of communities and sustainable infrastructure development.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a crucial bridge between the conceptual design phase and the physical execution of infrastructure projects, requiring a strong understanding of both engineering principles and project management within the construction sector. The emphasis on "revenue generation by the quality, cost effectiveness and buildability of the design" highlights the strategic importance of this position to the company's financial success.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Coordinate the consultant team in the development of detailed design, ensuring full coordination and compliance with United Infrastructure's requirements and current regulations to achieve necessary approvals and enable site commencement within agreed program timelines.
• Manage technical design coordination of schemes, ensuring alignment with agreed programs, company targets, and driving maximum revenue through design quality, cost-effectiveness, and buildability.
• Review consultant detail design drawings and subcontractor designs, providing constructive feedback and driving high standards.
• Ensure designs comply with Company\'s standards and promote design solutions that respect budgetary constraints, supporting the Design Manager in job running.
• Oversee subcontractor and supplier design approvals, maintaining an up-to-date approvals schedule in line with the build program and managing the flow of information to Commercial, Operations, and Client teams.
• Update and coordinate monthly design schedules, and review/coordinate design and technical issues with Commercial and Operations teams.
• Manage the change control process for variations related to drawing revisions, construction programs, and costs, and monitor/obtain all critical certificates for completion and handovers.
• Collateralize required information and liaise with Planning Authorities and Building Control for submissions and necessary approvals.
• Ensure all documents are correctly available for the Document Controller and manage the processing of information through workflows on the document management system, ensuring current drawings are filed correctly as per company protocol.
• Undertake site visits as required, attend site and project meetings, and act as the principle design and technical contact during construction works.
• Monitor work executed on site to ensure it aligns with benchmarks and design specifications, managing, investigating, and responding promptly to RFIs from the site team and subcontractors, and reviewing/advising on corrective measures for identified design issues.
• Compile Health & Safety files and O&M manuals, and at all times comply with company policies, procedures, instructions, and the group\'s health, safety, and environmental policy.

📝 Enhancement Note: The extensive list of responsibilities indicates a hands-on role requiring meticulous attention to detail in project documentation, regulatory adherence, and stakeholder communication. The emphasis on managing both internal teams and external consultants/subcontractors suggests a need for strong interpersonal and negotiation skills.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Minimum relevant Level 4 qualification (e.g., HNC/NVQ4 or equivalent in a construction-related field).
• Desirable: Membership of a relevant professional body (e.g., CIOB, CIAT, or RICS).

Experience:

• Proven track record of design coordination within the construction industry.
• Relevant Design and Build experience with a strong understanding of methodology and sequencing processes in delivering construction projects, including design and pre-construction activities.
• Up-to-date knowledge of construction industry legislation, procedures, and best practices.
• Experience with retrofit works and Building Safety Act relevant works is desirable.
• Experience of contractual requirements, section agreements, and the utility application process is highly desirable.

Required Skills:

• Thorough and pro-active management style with the ability to prioritize effectively.
• Strong leadership skills, including decisiveness, flexibility, organized work habits, and the ability to work well under pressure and to strict deadlines.
• Analytical approach to work with a keen eye for detail.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to communicate effectively at all levels of management and project teams, both internal and external.
• Ability to review drawings and identify buildability and technical issues.
• Proficiency in project and process management.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making capabilities.
• Experience in design delivery and assessing risks.
• Knowledge of current construction industry regulations and procedures.
• Valid driving license for site visits and meetings.

Preferred Skills:

• Passion for construction and customer satisfaction, with a focus on high standards and excellence.
• Tenacious and driven with a proactive attitude.
• Strong practical knowledge of construction work types, methods, and design solutions.
• Experience with CAD software (AutoCAD or Revit).
• Knowledge and understanding of BIM (Building Information Modeling).

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualification requirements lean towards practical, vocational training (Level 4) rather than a pure academic degree, emphasizing hands-on experience and applied knowledge in the construction sector. The blend of "Essential" and "Desirable" skills clearly delineates core competencies from value-added expertise, guiding candidates on where to focus their application.

• Documented examples of successful design coordination for infrastructure projects, showcasing how you managed multiple stakeholders and design elements.
• Case studies demonstrating your ability to identify and resolve technical and buildability issues during the design phase, including before-and-after scenarios.
• Evidence of managing design within budgetary constraints, including examples of cost-saving proposals or value engineering initiatives.
• Proof of experience in ensuring design compliance with relevant regulations, standards, and client specifications.

Process Documentation:

• Detailed workflow diagrams or process maps illustrating your approach to design coordination, information management, and RFI (Request for Information) processing.
• Examples of how you have implemented or improved design review and approval processes, including subcontractor and supplier engagement.
• Documentation of your experience with document management systems, highlighting your ability to manage version control, filing protocols, and information exchange according to company standards.
• Samples of Health & Safety files and O&M manuals you have compiled, demonstrating thoroughness and adherence to regulatory requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio for this role will go beyond simply listing responsibilities. It should showcase tangible achievements, problem-solving skills, and a systematic approach to design management within the construction lifecycle. Quantifiable results (e.g., cost savings, schedule adherence achieved through design coordination) will be highly impactful.

Salary Range:Based on industry benchmarks for Design Managers with 5-10 years of experience in the UK construction sector, and considering the location in the Midlands, the estimated salary range is between £45,000 - £60,000 per annum. This estimate accounts for the level of responsibility, required qualifications, and the company's focus on delivering critical infrastructure.

• Competitive salary recognizing your expertise.
• Opportunities for great benefits (details to be confirmed with employer).
• Clear career progression pathways within a fast-growing company.
• Playing a key role in revitalizing communities and contributing to sustainable infrastructure development.
• Potential for professional development and training.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are typically around 40 hours per week, with flexibility expected to meet project deadlines and site requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on typical market rates for a Design Manager in the UK\'s construction sector. Actual compensation will depend on the candidate's specific experience, qualifications, and the outcome of the negotiation process. The listed benefits highlight key motivators for candidates in this field, such as career advancement and impactful work.

Industry: United Infrastructure operates within the critical infrastructure and utility sectors, focusing on water, energy (gas), power, and telecoms, as well as social infrastructure (retrofit, refurbishment, and maintenance). This positions the company at the forefront of national development and community improvement.Company Size: United Infrastructure is described as a "dynamic and rapidly expanding business," suggesting a growth-oriented environment. Specific employee numbers are not provided, but the scale of operations implies a significant workforce with dedicated teams for utility and social infrastructure.Founded: The founding date is not specified, but the company\'s focus on delivering "critical infrastructure projects" suggests a mature organization with established processes and a commitment to long-term development.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager will likely work within a project-based structure, reporting to a senior design lead or project director.
• The role involves close collaboration with various departments including Commercial, Operations, Health & Safety, and potentially external consultants and subcontractors.
• The team is expected to be composed of skilled specialists and hardworking individuals focused on innovative solutions.

Methodology:

• The company emphasizes an innovative approach to complex challenges faced by clients.
• Design processes focus on coordination, compliance with regulations, cost-effectiveness, and buildability.
• A strong emphasis is placed on project management, ensuring delivery on time and within budget.
• Data-driven decision-making is implied through the need for accurate scheduling, budget monitoring, and performance analysis.

Company Website: uig.net (derived from domain_derived)

📝 Enhancement Note: The company\'s dual focus on utility and social infrastructure suggests a diverse project portfolio and a commitment to both essential services and community enhancement. The "rapidly expanding" nature implies opportunities for individuals to grow with the company and contribute to shaping its future operations.

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a Design Manager, typically a mid-to-senior level position within engineering and construction management. It requires a blend of technical design understanding, project coordination, and team leadership. The responsibilities indicate a significant level of autonomy and decision-making authority within the design process.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will report to a higher-level Design Manager or Project Director and will be responsible for coordinating consultant teams and subcontractors. This structure suggests a hierarchical project management approach where clear lines of responsibility are maintained.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager\'s role has a direct impact on the success of infrastructure projects by ensuring designs are technically sound, compliant, cost-effective, and buildable. This directly influences project timelines, budgets, quality, and ultimately, the company\'s profitability and reputation. Effective design management minimizes costly on-site issues and rework, contributing significantly to overall project efficiency and revenue generation.

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific infrastructure sectors (e.g., water, telecoms, social housing retrofit) or advanced design technologies like BIM.
• Leadership Advancement: Progress to Senior Design Manager, Head of Design, or Project Director roles, overseeing larger teams and more complex projects.
• Cross-functional Roles: Transition into broader project management, operations management, or client-facing roles where design understanding is a significant asset.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for further certifications, training in new design software, and membership in professional bodies can enhance career progression.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "clear career progression" mentioned in the benefits suggests a structured development path within United Infrastructure. Candidates should inquire about specific training programs, mentorship opportunities, and typical career trajectories for Design Managers to fully assess growth potential.

Office Type: The role is on-site, indicating a traditional office environment within United Infrastructure\'s facilities, likely co-located with project management, commercial, and operational teams.

Office Location(s): Nottingham, Midlands, United Kingdom. This location provides access to a skilled workforce and is strategically positioned within the UK for infrastructure projects.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is expected to be collaborative, fostering interaction between design teams, project managers, commercial staff, and site personnel.
• Access to necessary design software (CAD, BIM), document management systems, and communication tools will be provided.
• The environment will likely be fast-paced, driven by project deadlines and the dynamic nature of construction.

Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time hours (approx. 40 hours/week) are expected, but flexibility is crucial to accommodate project milestones, site meetings, and potential urgent design queries. This might involve some evening or weekend work during critical project phases, although this should be managed and compensated appropriately according to company policy.

📝 Enhancement Note: As an on-site role, candidates should consider the daily commute to Nottingham and the typical working hours in the UK construction industry. The collaborative aspect suggests an environment where teamwork and effective communication are paramount.

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a review of CVs and cover letters to assess qualifications, experience, and alignment with essential requirements.
• First Interview: May involve HR or a hiring manager to discuss overall experience, career goals, and cultural fit. Expect questions about your approach to design coordination, problem-solving, and leadership.
• Technical Interview/Case Study: A more in-depth interview with senior design or project management staff. This stage will likely involve reviewing your portfolio and presenting case studies of past projects. You may be given a hypothetical design challenge to assess your analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior executive (e.g., Head of Design or Director) to discuss strategic contributions, long-term vision, and final offer negotiation.
• Project Selection: Curate examples that best demonstrate your core responsibilities: design coordination, technical issue resolution, budget adherence, and regulatory compliance. Focus on infrastructure projects if possible.
• Case Study Structure: For each project, clearly outline:
  • The project\'s scope and your role.
  • The specific design challenges faced.
  • Your approach to coordination and problem-solving.
  • The solutions implemented.
  • The outcomes achieved (e.g., cost savings, schedule improvements, successful approvals).
• Visual Aids: Use drawings, schematics, and progress photos where appropriate to illustrate your points.
• Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use numbers to demonstrate impact (e.g., "reduced design review time by 15%", "identified cost savings of £X").
• Demonstrate Process: Clearly articulate your process for managing information flow, RFI responses, and subcontractor approvals.
• Be prepared to discuss how you would approach a complex design coordination task, manage conflicting stakeholder requirements, or resolve a significant technical issue that arises late in the design phase.
• Practice articulating your thought process clearly and concisely, demonstrating your analytical skills and problem-solving methodology.
• Review common construction regulations and design standards relevant to utilities and social infrastructure.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely focus heavily on practical application and problem-solving. Candidates should be prepared to discuss specific examples from their experience and clearly articulate their methodologies for managing design processes and resolving complex issues.

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: AutoCAD and/or Revit are essential for reviewing and understanding technical drawings. Experience with these is specifically mentioned as desirable.
• Document Management Systems: Proficiency in using and managing workflows within systems for document control, version tracking, and information exchange (e.g., Aconex, Procore, or similar platforms).
• Project Management Software: Tools for scheduling, task tracking, and progress monitoring (e.g., Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or similar).
• Collaboration Platforms: Tools for team communication and information sharing (e.g., Microsoft Teams, Slack).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Ability to interpret design reports, progress schedules, and cost reports generated by project management and commercial teams.
• Experience in compiling and analyzing data for design schedules and change control logs.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design information integrates with commercial and operational systems is beneficial.
• Familiarity with workflow automation within document management or project management systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific software isn\'t always listed, the responsibilities clearly point to the need for proficiency in standard industry tools for design visualization, project management, and document control. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with these types of systems.

Operations Values:

• Pro-active Management Style: Taking initiative, anticipating issues, and driving solutions rather than waiting for problems to arise.
• Analytical Approach & Eye for Detail: Meticulousness in reviewing designs, plans, and documentation to ensure accuracy and compliance.
• Leadership & Motivation: Inspiring and guiding design teams and subcontractors to meet objectives.
• Effective Communication: Clear, concise, and timely communication with all stakeholders.
• Commitment to High Standards: Delivering quality in design, buildability, and project execution.
• Respect for Budgetary Constraints: Balancing design excellence with financial responsibility.
• Adherence to Health, Safety & Environmental Policies: Prioritizing safe and sustainable practices.
• Cross-functional Integration: Working closely with Commercial, Operations, and Site teams to ensure seamless project delivery.
• Stakeholder Management: Effectively engaging with internal teams, external consultants, subcontractors, clients, and regulatory bodies.
• Process-Oriented: Following established company protocols for document management, design reviews, and information exchange.
• Problem-Solving Focus: Collaborative approach to identifying and resolving design and technical issues.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "Company values" suggests that cultural fit is as important as technical skill. Candidates should research United Infrastructure's stated values and be prepared to discuss how their own work ethic and approach align with these principles.

• Balancing Design Excellence with Project Constraints: Ensuring innovative and high-quality designs are delivered within tight budgets and strict timelines.
• Managing Diverse Stakeholder Expectations: Coordinating the needs and demands of various internal departments, external consultants, subcontractors, and regulatory bodies.
• Resolving Complex Technical Issues: Addressing unforeseen design challenges that arise during the construction phase, requiring quick, effective, and compliant solutions.
• Information Flow Management: Ensuring timely and accurate distribution of design information to all relevant parties, especially in a fast-paced construction environment.
• Keeping Up-to-Date: Staying abreast of evolving construction regulations, new technologies (like BIM), and industry best practices.
• Technical Skill Enhancement: Gaining deeper expertise in specific infrastructure design areas or advanced software like Revit and BIM.
• Project Management Proficiency: Developing advanced project management skills through hands-on experience and potentially further certifications.
• Leadership Development: Opportunities to mentor junior designers and lead larger project design teams.
• Industry Exposure: Learning about diverse construction methodologies, contractual requirements, and utility application processes across different project types.
• Networking: Building relationships with industry professionals, consultants, and subcontractors.

📝 Enhancement Note: Frame the challenges as opportunities for growth and problem-solving in your application and interviews. Highlight how you have successfully navigated similar situations in the past.

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for coordinating a complex design package involving multiple consultants and subcontractors. How do you ensure all elements are integrated and compliant?" (Focus on your systematic approach, communication methods, and risk mitigation).
• "Walk me through a time you identified a significant buildability or technical issue during the design review phase. What was your process for resolving it, and what was the outcome?" (Highlight your analytical skills, problem-solving methodology, and impact).
• "How do you manage design changes that impact program and budget? Describe your experience with change control processes." (Demonstrate your understanding of variation management and commercial awareness).
• "How do you ensure designs meet regulatory compliance and company standards, especially when working with external consultants?" (Emphasize your knowledge of legislation, standards, and your oversight process).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about United Infrastructure and our work in utility and social infrastructure?" (Research their projects, values, and recent news).
• "How do you align with our company values of pro-active management, attention to detail, and high standards?" (Provide specific examples from your career).
• "Describe your experience working in a fast-paced construction environment. How do you prioritize and manage your workload?" (Showcase your time management and resilience).
• Structure: Organize your portfolio by project type or by key responsibility (e.g., Design Coordination, Problem Solving, Compliance).
• Storytelling: For each case study, tell a compelling story: the challenge, your action, and the result (CAR method).
• Visuals: Use clear, concise visuals. Ensure drawings are legible and that any data presented (e.g., cost savings, schedule improvements) is easy to understand.
• Focus on Process: Explain how you achieved results, not just what you achieved. Detail your methodologies for coordination, review, and issue resolution.
• Conciseness: Be prepared to present your key projects within a specified timeframe, focusing on the most relevant and impactful examples.

📝 Enhancement Note: Be ready to discuss specific tools and software you've used for design coordination and document management. Quantifiable achievements are crucial for demonstrating your impact.

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on SmartRecruiters.
• Tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in design coordination, project management within construction, and your ability to manage technical and regulatory aspects of infrastructure projects.
• Prepare your portfolio, selecting 2-3 key projects that best showcase your skills in design delivery, problem-solving, and stakeholder management. Be ready to present these in detail.
• Research United Infrastructure\'s current projects, company values, and recent news to demonstrate your genuine interest and understanding of their business.
• Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to answer behavioral interview questions, focusing on examples related to design coordination, issue resolution, and leadership.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

Application Requirements

Candidates must have a minimum Level 4 qualification and relevant construction industry knowledge. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills are essential, along with experience in design coordination.