Job Description
Location: Helston (Cornwall) | Full-Time
We are seeking a proactive Design Manager to drive excellence within our CAD design team on both new-build and refurbishment projects. You will harness your hands-on engineering and fabrication experience to develop a cohesive, high-performing team that consistently delivers innovative, safe, and cost-effective design solutions.
Key Responsibilities
* Cultivate and strengthen the CAD design team, fostering a collaborative environment and encouraging professional growth
* Inspire and motivate designers to achieve exceptional quality, combining creativity with practical fabrication and installation insight
* Rigorously review and sign off design drawings, ensuring all safety factors and compliance standards are fully addressed
* Track project milestones - schedule, budget, and technical performance - and take proactive steps to keep objectives on target
* Monitor departmental KPIs and champion continuous process improvements
* Act as the main design liaison: clarify requirements, present design updates, and integrate feedback from clients, suppliers, and internal stakeholders
* Champion design-for-manufacture best practices to maximize efficiency and minimise costs
Required Qualifications
* Expert user of SolidWorks or equivalent 3D CAD software
* Proven background in construction, fabrication, or related engineering disciplines
* Hands-on fabrication experience with steel, wood, concrete, stone, glass, and stainless steel
* Demonstrated ability to work effectively with external contractors and support services
* Strong leadership skills, including one-to-one coaching, performance feedback, and team-building techniques
* Exceptional attention to detail and a disciplined approach to process and documentation
What We Offer
* A competitive salary range of £40,000-£50,000
* The opportunity to develop and inspire a talented CAD design team
* Engagement with varied, technologically advanced projects
* Clear pathways for career progression