Position Assistant Design Manager - Step‑Up Opportunity
Project Government Frameworks - Education Project
Salary £55,000 - £62,000 + Car + Package + Progression
Location Derby Office & Birmingham Site
Contract Permanent, Full Time
Start ASAP
A leading UK main contractor is seeking an ambitious Assistant Design Manager to join the team on a new‑build, government‑funded school project. This role is ideal for an Assistant Design Manager who is ready to step up, take on more ownership, and progress into a Design Manager position.
This is a long‑term opportunity within a stable, well‑structured business delivering projects through established government frameworks.
The Role
Working closely with an experienced Design Manager and wider project team, you will support the coordination and management of the design process from pre‑construction through delivery. You will be given increasing responsibility as the project progresses, with clear support and development toward a full Design Manager role.
The position requires regular travel between the project site in Birmingham and the office in Derby.
Willingness to travel between these locations is essential.
The Company
This is a respected and financially secure UK contractor with a strong pipeline of public‑sector work and a reputation for being a great place to build a long‑term career. People stay here because they’re trusted, supported, and given real opportunities to progress.
You’ll be joining a collaborative business that invests in development, promotes from within, and delivers projects it’s proud to put its name to.
Key Responsibilities
* Support the management of the design process across all project stages
* Coordinate design information from consultants and specialist subcontractors
* Assist with design reviews and information release in line with the programme
* Support compliance with statutory and funding‑body requirements
* Attend design team and project meetings
* Provide technical support to site teams during construction
* Assist with managing design changes and value‑engineering exercises
About You
* Currently working as an Assistant Design Manager, from a main contractor or specialist subcontractor background and ready to take the next step toward a Design Manager role
* Experience delivering government‑funded projects - education sector experience (schools, colleges, universities) is desirable, but not essential
* Organised, proactive, and keen to develop technically and professionally
* Willing and able to travel regularly between Birmingham and Derby
What’s on Offer
* £55,000 – £62,000 salary, dependent on experience
* Car and attractive benefits package
* A clear and supported step‑up path to Design Manager
* Exposure to a major public‑sector education project
* Long‑term stability within a business with a strong project pipeline
Keywords:
Assistant Design Manager, Design Coordinator, Design Manager, Government Frameworks, DfE, CF21, CF25, Education, Main Contractor, Tier 1, Tier One, Public Sector