Mechanical Design Manager — Job Description
Job Title: Mechanical Design Manager
Location: Northampton
Department: Engineering / Design
Employment Type: Full-time, Permanent
Salry: £80,000
Role Summary
Lead and manage the mechanical design function for building services engineering projects, covering full design lifecycle from concept through construction documentation. You will guide a multidisciplinary design team, ensure technical excellence, and support delivery of high-quality, compliant mechanical systems across diverse project sectors.
Key Responsibilities
Design Leadership & Management
Lead and oversee mechanical building services design from early concept to detailed construction documentation and handover.
Manage and prioritise workload for the internal design team, providing technical direction and mentoring.
Ensure high standards of technical output, design quality, accuracy and innovation.
Drive design reviews, risk assessments, and value engineering to optimise cost, performance and buildability.
Technical Coordination & Delivery
Collaborate with project managers, estimating, BIM/CAD teams, and construction teams to align design and delivery.
Conduct design interface coordination, clash detection and integration with other disciplines (electrical, structural, architectural).
Support preparation of technical specifications, calculations, schematic and detailed drawings for mechanical systems (HVAC, ventilation, heating, plumbing, controls).
Client & Stakeholder Engagement
Liaise with clients, consultants and stakeholders on technical design issues, presenting proposals and responding to queries.
Attend design and coordination meetings, contributing to design decision-making.
Provide technical support during tender stages and respond to design-related clarifications.
Regulatory Compliance & Standards
Ensure all designs comply with relevant codes, standards and health & safety regulations (CDM, Building Regs).
Promote compliance with internal quality, environmental and safety procedures.
Team Development
Mentor and develop design staff, encouraging skill growth and performance excellence.
Champion best practices in design workflows, digital tools, BIM and documentation standards.
Skills & Experience Required
Essential
Degree or equivalent qualification in Mechanical/Building Services Engineering or related discipline.
Extensive experience (typically 5+ years) in mechanical building services design leadership or senior design roles.
Strong technical knowledge of building services systems (HVAC, heating, ventilation, plumbing, controls).
Proven ability to manage teams and multiple design projects concurrently.
Proficiency in CAD/BIM tools (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit) and common engineering software.
Desirable
Chartered Engineer status or working towards chartership.
Experience with 3D modelling/BIM Level 2 or above and digital design coordination.
Knowledge of sustainability and low-carbon system design principles.
Benefits
Competitive salary and performance-linked incentives.
Professional development and training support.
Pension and healthcare benefits.
Opportunities for career progression and leadership growth