Overview
We are looking for a Graduate Design Manager to join our Construction team based in Coventry. This is a structured graduate development programme designed to provide experiences and tools for progression within your chosen career.
Location: Coventry – with flexibility to travel across the region
Starting Salary: £30,000 per annum, with potential £4,750 car allowance depending on eligibility
Pathway: Permanent, Full-time 2-year programme, leading to an assistant level role upon completion with salary potential of CIRCA £38k
Starting date: September 2026
We are unable to offer certificates of sponsorship to any candidates in this role.
What you will be responsible for
As a Graduate Design Manager, you will assist in managing all aspects of the contractual and financial side of construction projects. You will be working within the construction team on our University of Warwick STEM contract. This role offers a fantastic opportunity for a recent graduate to gain hands-on experience, receive mentorship from experienced professionals, and develop a strong foundation in quantity surveying.
What will your day-to-day duties include
* Assisting in the coordination and management of the design process for construction projects.
* Collaborating with architects, engineers, contractors, and clients to ensure design specifications are met.
* Reviewing and analysing project drawings, plans, and specifications for accuracy and compliance with standards.
* Supporting the development of design solutions that align with project objectives, budget, and timeline.
* Monitoring design progress and adjusting as necessary to meet project goals.
Graduate scheme and progression
When you join, you will be enrolled onto our graduate scheme. The programme will take 2 years to complete and has been designed to equip you with the skills you need to excel in your chosen profession and help you achieve professional membership or chartership.
Benefits for you include practical experience, skill development, networking opportunities, and career insights.
What we are looking for
* Graduates due in 2026 or recent graduates within the past three years.
* Degree in Construction Management, Architecture, Civil Engineering, or a related field.
* Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
* Ability to work well independently and as part of a team.
* Proficiency in design software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit) and Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Project).
* Must hold full driving licence.
Rewards and benefits
We offer a variety of flexible benefits that you can tailor to your needs. See more information on benefits here.
Diversity and inclusion
Making Kier a diverse and inclusive place to work is a high priority. Our Diversity & Inclusion initiatives are shaped by our employees. View our D&I action plan here. As a Disability Confident employer, we will ensure that a fair and proportionate number of disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria are offered an interview.
We look forward to seeing your application to #joinkier.
Recruitment timeline
October 2025: Initial applications
November 2025: Application reviews
January 2026 onwards: Virtual and in-person assessment centres
Location & role context
Birmingham and Midlands region roles may also be applicable; this position is based in Coventry with regional travel expected.
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