Senior​/Principal Design Manager for Design & Build

Overview

Atkins

Réalis is a leading engineering services provider committed to shaping the future of cities and environments. We are seeking a Senior Design Manager to lead Design & Build (D&B) projects within the Design & Advanced Technology (D&AT) Practice.

• Lead and shape a team of engineers for delivery of technical design work on complex multi‑disciplinary D&B projects in areas such as hydraulics, wastewater, clean water infrastructure, water reuse, pipelines, and more.
• Contribute to business operational activities including hiring, line management, business development, and client management.
• Lead and drive the development of project design deliverables, working with discipline leads and project management to meet key milestones and budgets.
• Oversee production, review, and approval of technical deliverables such as design reports, drawings, calculations, and scopes of work.
• Provide technical leadership within the discipline for the regional and national D&AT practice, influencing practice‑wide initiatives and recommending best practices.
• Grow and manage design management capabilities within the regional and/or national practice, particularly for D&B contracts.
• Work independently under guidance, exercising judgment to solve challenging problems and provide guidance to all team members.
• Advise on client, operational, project, or service activities within project teams and wider D&AT practice initiatives.
• Lead or collaborate on technical aspects of bid proposals.
• Inspire and lead a global multi‑disciplinary team to deliver integrated design solutions.

• Degree in Civil Water Engineering or equivalent.
• Chartered Civil Engineer.
• Strong understanding of design management with broad technical knowledge in hydraulics, wastewater, clean water infrastructure, water reuse, pipelines, and related disciplines.
• Ability to take a broad perspective to identify innovative solutions and challenge the status quo.
• In‑depth knowledge and expertise in engineering, risk assessment, quality control, proactive design management, and change management.
• Excellent communication skills, able to convey complex technical concepts clearly to diverse stakeholders.
• Expert knowledge of current design codes and standards, including CDM Regulations, Eurocodes, regulatory bodies, water utility standards, and NEC.
• Proficiency in analytical software and tools such as AutoCAD, CDEs, MS Suite, Power BI, and other management software.
• Experience in the Water market and design & build (D&B) is essential; experience in other markets is highly desirable.
• Proactive, agile, highly motivated mindset with a collaborative approach to teamwork and shared success.
• Comfortable liaising with stakeholders at all levels internally and externally.
• Proven experience leading large‑scale engineering design delivery, including hiring, client and contractor collaboration, and full‑life‑cycle leadership on large complex projects.

Competitive salaries, employee rewards, flexible holiday allowances, hybrid working culture, and a range of benefits tailored to support health, wellbeing, financial, and lifestyle choices. Opportunities for training and professional development are available.

This role may require security clearance. Offers of employment will be dependent on obtaining the relevant level of clearance. The vetting process is delivered by the United Kingdom Security Vetting (UKSV) and may require proof of UK residency for 5 years or longer. Do not reference current or previous security clearance in your application.

As an Equal Opportunities Employer, we value applications from all backgrounds, cultures, and abilities. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment where everyone feels they belong.