Closing Date
03/02/2026
Job Title: Project Design Lead
Location: Falmer (hybrid working + site visits, driving licence is required)
Contract Type: Perm, Full time
Salary: Salary and package are to be discussed at the screening stage.
About the role
Are you someone who enjoys working in a collaborative environment and is eager to learn from experienced professionals? Do you have a keen interest in engineering, construction, or infrastructure projects and want to build your career in a supportive, team-focused setting?
Southern Water is looking for a Project Design Lead to join our Engineering and Technical Solutions team. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone early in their career or looking to step into the infrastructure sector, with plenty of scope to learn, grow, and contribute to meaningful projects.
What you will be responsible for:
1. Team Support: Assist in coordinating engineering and project teams, helping to keep tasks on track and organised.
2. Stakeholder Communication: Help maintain clear communication across departments including Operations, Environmental Enabling, and Engineering & Construction.
3. Design Administration: Support the review and tracking of design documentation, timelines, and compliance requirements.
4. Health & Safety Awareness: Promote safe working practices and help ensure design activities align with H&S standards.
5. Project Coordination: Assist project managers with planning and tracking design-related activities and budgets.
What you’ll bring to the role:
We’re looking for someone enthusiastic, organised, and eager to learn. You might have a degree or equivalent experience in Engineering, Environmental Science, or a related field, or you may be looking to transition into this area from another role. What matters most is your willingness to grow, collaborate, and contribute to a team.
Experience in infrastructure or construction is helpful but not essential. Familiarity with tools like MS Project, BIM, or NEC contracts is a bonus, but training and support will be provided
Southern Water is at the forefront of transforming Britain’s water industry, investing significantly to enhance resilience, sustainability, and service excellence. With £7.8bn planned investment for 2025-30, this is an unparalleled opportunity to join a business committed to delivering a generational shift in the way water services are managed.
You will be joining at a time of significant change, working alongside a highly skilled leadership team with a clear vision for the future. We offer an environment where senior professionals can make a meaningful impact, influence major strategic decisions, and drive long-term value creation
Purpose-Driven
"Our mission is to protect and enhance life through water—and we need passionate people to help us achieve it. If you’re inspired by our purpose and believe you can contribute, apply today. You don’t need to meet every criterion; what matters most is your drive to make a difference."
If this role isn’t quite what you’re looking for but are keen to be contacted about opportunities at Southern Water, you can register your details here: Introduce Yourself (myworkdaysite.com- Introduce Yourself)
Our Commitment to Diversity
We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, identities, and experiences. We do not discriminate based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, or any other protected characteristic. If you need reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know.
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