Mechanical Design Manager
Location: Leeds
Salary: £50,000 – £60,000 + £8,000 Car Allowance
Sector: Engineering Services (Decarbonisation, HVAC & Industrial)
The Challenge
As the UK pivots toward Net Zero, our Engineering Services division is leading the charge. We are looking for a Mechanical Design Manager who can master the complexity of traditional heavy industrial mechanical systems while spearheading high-profile decarbonisation programmes and large-scale commercial HVAC infrastructure.
This isn't just about oversight; it’s about technical ownership. You will be the primary lead on projects ranging from massive industrial energy centres to high-spec commercial developments, ensuring every solution is buildable, compliant, and future-proofed against the evolving energy landscape.
Key Responsibilities
1. Multi-Sector Technical Leadership
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Decarbonisation & Energy: Lead the design and delivery of district heating networks, air/ground-source heat pump integration, and carbon-reduction retrofits for aging industrial estates.
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Complex HVAC: Oversee the technical integrity of large-scale commercial HVAC systems, including high-volume air handling, VRF/VRV systems, and sophisticated heat recovery solutions.
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Heavy Infrastructure: Act as the final word on major mechanical systems, specifically large-diameter pipework (300mm+) and high-pressure steam/water distribution.
2. Design & Fabrication Strategy
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Drive the "Design for Manufacture and Assembly" (DfMA) agenda, ensuring commercial and industrial designs are optimised for offsite fabrication.
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Manage the full technical suite: BIM models (LOD 400+), equipment schedules, CFD studies, and fire strategy validations.
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Lead design progression reviews, ensuring multidisciplinary coordination between mechanical, electrical, and structural teams.
3. Commissioning & Regulatory Assurance
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Bridge the gap between the drawing board and the site; lead on-site design reviews and assist in the creation of Inspection and Test Plans (ITPs) and commissioning strategies.
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Ensure all commercial and industrial projects meet Part L, pressure system regulations, and specific client ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) targets.
4. Commercial & Strategic Integration
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Identify and mitigate technical risks early in the project lifecycle.
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Collaborate with the Commercial team to price variations and manage scope creep within complex commercial contracts.
What You Bring to the Table
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Diverse Project Portfolio: Proven experience across heavy industry, energy centres, and high-value commercial construction (offices, hospitals, or mixed-use developments).
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Sustainability Focus: A strong understanding of decarbonisation technologies and the technical challenges of transitioning legacy systems to low-carbon alternatives.
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Technical Mastery: Expertise in industrial pipework, modular assembly, and advanced HVAC design.
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Authority: The confidence to act as the primary technical liaison for clients, consultants, and regulatory bodies.
The Package
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Base Salary: £50,000 – £60,000
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Car Allowance: £8,000 per annum
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Benefits: Enhanced pension, private healthcare, and a clear path to Director-level technical leadership.
If interested, please APPLY or call me James Grant at Hampshire Recruitment Group