Design Manager - Water

Overview

Jacobs is delivering large‑scale water and wastewater infrastructure programmes across the UK. The Design Manager – Water will lead the delivery of these programmes, providing leadership on complex design and engineering challenges.

• Ensure compliance with technical standards and UK CDM regulations.
• Take ownership for value engineering, value management and buildability.
• Lead stakeholder engagement; manage client expectations and be an active member of the framework leadership team.
• Oversee design management, scheduling, risk mitigation, change control and financial forecasting and analysis, ensuring constructability and commissioning are embedded in design thinking.
• Promote innovation in design and construction, including standardisation and design automation.
• Mentor engineers and project team members, supporting their career, personal and professional development.
• Take ownership of client relationships and contribute to business growth.
• Work with the Project Manager to develop and implement project quality and delivery plans and monitor technical performance.

• Technical leadership experience in design and project management of large‑scale infrastructure programmes.
• Expertise in multidisciplinary engineering and construction integration.
• Experience with NEC3/4 contract and change control.
• Knowledge of CDM regulations and processes.
• Passion and enthusiasm for problem solving, creating and delivering innovation.
• Track record in developing and fostering a culture focused on success.
• Ability to operate autonomously across a wide range of complex projects with authority.
• Excellent communication skills, able to explain complex technical issues to multiple stakeholders with differing backgrounds and levels of expertise.

• Competitive salary reflecting your skills and experience.
• Flexible work arrangements – hybrid, part‑time, and flexible working hours, patterns and locations.
• Robust pension contributions up to 10%.
• Comprehensive health coverage – single medical cover and Digital GP service, with options to add partner and family.
• Family planning support – fertility healthcare and family planning services.
• Enhanced parental leave – pay and free membership to employee assistance and parental programmes.
• Life assurance at 4× your salary.
• Well‑being hub – free access to wellbeing apps.
• Professional development – cover for professional membership fees and CPD opportunities.
• Community engagement – charity matched‑funding, paid volunteering time, and charitable donations.

Jacobs is a disability‑confident employer and welcomes applications from disabled candidates. We also welcome applicants seeking flexible working arrangements and those who may not meet all the listed requirements.