We are seeking an experienced Main Contractor Design Manager to join a full-time, permanent role, predominantly office-based and will involve leading and coordinating the design process across projects from pre-construction through to completion, ensuring alignment with programme, budget, and technical requirements.
Location: St Albans, Hertfordshire
Salary: £55,000 to £70,000 per annum, depending on experience
Hours: Full-time, 40 hours per week (typically 08:30 to 17:30 with a 1-hour lunch break, flexibility available)
Start Date: ASAP
Working Arrangement: Office-based, with potential work-from-home options following successful integration
Key Responsibilities:
* Lead the development and management of the design process from pre-construction through to project completion
* Ensure the project design aligns with the agreed brief, budget, and programme
* Appoint and manage external consultants, ensuring design information is produced to a high standard
* Collaborate closely with the Senior or Lead Design Manager and wider project team to deliver design milestones efficiently
* Coordinate and oversee multi-disciplinary consultant teams, including architects, structural engineers, fire engineers, façade consultants, M&E consultants, and relevant subcontractor design packages
* Manage and monitor design review processes, ensuring compliance with Building Regulations, planning requirements, and warranty conditions
* Oversee the discharge of third-party approvals, including planning conditions and building control requirements
* Manage design information and workflows using common data environments such as Aconex, Procore, or Asite
* Identify and manage design-related risks, proposing practical solutions as issues arise
* Maintain strong working relationships with clients, consultants, and key stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle
* Support construction teams by ensuring timely issue of accurate and buildable design information
* Attend design meetings and undertake occasional site visits where required
Requirements:
* Proven experience working as a Design Manager within a main contractor environment
* Strong understanding of the construction design process from pre-construction to delivery
* Experience managing and coordinating external consultant teams
* Familiarity with digital document management systems
* Confident communicator with strong organisational and coordination skills
* Ability to manage multiple workstreams and priorities simultaneously
What's Offered:
* Competitive salary depending on experience
* Up to 30 days annual leave plus bank holidays, increasing to up to 35 days with length of service
* Competitive pension scheme via salary sacrifice
* Private health insurance
* Ongoing training and development opportunities
* Permanent, full-time position with long-term progression potential
Interested applicants are invited to apply by sending their most up-to-date CV.