Design Manager

Design Manager – Multi-Disciplinary (Water Sector)

Manchester | 2-3 days per week
£500-£550 per day (Outside IR35) or £70,000-£80,000 + benefits

We’re seeking an experienced Design Manager (Mechanical, Electrical or Civil) to drive multi-disciplinary design delivery across complex water industry projects.

This is a leadership role with real influence – shaping teams, improving processes, and ensuring safe, high-quality design outputs delivered on time.

• Lead, mentor and grow a team of engineers, CAD technicians and graduates
• Take ownership of design delivery across multidisciplinary water projects
• Embed best practice, improve formal processes, and champion continuous improvement
• Drive BIM and 3D modelling adoption and ensure effective use of design software
• Ensure all deliverables meet safety, regulatory and quality standards
• Manage programme, resources, change control, and design budgets
• Support estimating and planning of design packages

• 10+ years’ experience in engineering design within the UK Water Sector
• Strong track record leading multi-disciplinary teams
• Experience developing junior engineers and building team capability
• Water industry experience highly desirable
• Degree or HND qualified (Chartered or working towards is a plus)
• Results-focused leader with strong technical and problem-solving skills

• Lead impactful infrastructure projects in a highly regulated environment
• Shape and grow a dynamic, collaborative design team
• Influence standards, innovation, and digital delivery (BIM/3D)
• Flexible working with strong day rate or salary options

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity in our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, colour, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.