Design Manager Water Civil Engineering

Role Overview

Design Manager in the Water team supporting key projects within the Asset Design discipline. Works alongside the Project Director and Project Manager to oversee engineering design work and ensure compliance with UK regulations and best practices.

• Lead on technically challenging projects and influence design delivery across disciplines.
• Serve as the central connector between clients, technical specialists, and project teams.
• Champion Safety by Design, CDM compliance, and efficient ways of working.
• Represent WSP in client meetings and guide multiple work packages with confidence.
• Collaborate in a supportive, quality‑focused environment.

• Manage design process, resources, timelines, budgets and risks for mid‑scale and complex projects.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, environmental and quality standards, including UK CDM regulations.
• Lead client and design team meetings, report progress and resolve design issues.
• Coordinate multidisciplinary inputs, ensuring integration, quality and timely delivery.
• Handle change control, RFIs, design transmittals and project communications to reduce risk.
• Maintain and update design programmes so deliverables align with scope and client requirements.
• Support Senior Project Leads with package management and team coordination.

• MEng/BEng/BSc or HND/HNC in engineering, environmental or numerate science.
• Member of an appropriate professional institute (Chartered or working toward).
• Experience in an infrastructure programme and project delivery environment, with a track record of delivering complex projects.
• Significant experience in project and contract management, including knowledge of H&S standards and regulations.

Hybrid working policy offering flexibility to work from home up to two days per week and collaboration in modern UK offices.

Inclusive culture that welcomes varied backgrounds and promotes belonging.

Health & wellbeing support, including virtual GP service, flexible benefits, and workplace adjustments for those in need.

Flexible working arrangements, part‑time options, and the ability to purchase additional leave.

Opportunities for development, mentoring, training and chartership support within the WSP business.

Here at WSP we positively encourage applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, pregnancy or maternity/paternity. As a Disability Confident leader, we will interview all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria, please let us know if you require any workplace adjustments in support of your application.