Apprentice Design Manager Level 4

Tilbury Douglas; Castleford; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK construction firm is seeking an Apprentice Design Manager in Castleford. This apprenticeship combines practical experience with formal study towards a Level 4 qualification. You'll assist in design and technical processes, working alongside experienced teams in a collaborative environment. Ideal candidates are organized, creative, and have a passion for the built environment. A competitive apprentice salary and 26 days annual leave are offered, along with mentorship opportunities and the chance to work on significant projects across the UK.

Benefits

Structured apprenticeship program

Mentorship from experienced professionals

26 days annual leave plus bank holidays

Opportunities for volunteering

Qualifications

• GCSEs (or equivalent), including Maths and English.
• A genuine interest in design, construction and the built environment.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.

Responsibilities

• Support the production and coordination of design and technical information.
• Assist with preparing and reviewing drawings, schedules and specifications.
• Help manage design information flow in line with project programmes.
• Learn how design risk, buildability and health & safety are managed.

Skills

Attention to detail

Problem-solving skills

Strong communication

Teamwork skills

Interest in digital design tools

Education

GCSEs (or equivalent), including Maths and English

Job description

Apprentice Design Manager – Level 4

Start your career where it matters most – building a better future together

Tilbury Douglas is a leading UK building, infrastructure, engineering and fit‑out company. We deliver complex and high‑quality projects across sectors including health, education, defence, justice, water, commercial and civic estate. Strong design coordination and technical information are critical to the successful delivery of our projects.

As an Apprentice Design Manager, you’ll support the production, coordination and management of design and technical information across our projects. You’ll gain hands‑on experience working alongside designers, engineers and project teams while developing the skills needed for a career in design and technical delivery within construction.

Location

This role will be based in the North East region, working within our Regional Design or Technical team. You’ll gain experience across office‑based design environments and live project teams.

What you’ll be doing

As a Level 4 Apprentice Designer, you’ll combine on‑the‑job learning with formal study, developing the core skills required to support design and technical functions.

You will study towards a Construction Design and Build Technician Level 4 Apprenticeship, typically achieving an HNC or equivalent Level 4 qualification.

With the support of experienced designers and technical managers, you’ll:

• Support the production and coordination of design and technical information
• Assist with preparing and reviewing drawings, schedules and specifications
• Help manage design information flow in line with project programmes
• Support coordination between architectural, structural and building services design
• Assist with design reviews, technical queries and change management
• Learn how design risk, buildability and health & safety are managed through the design process
• Support digital design processes, including use of CAD and BIM tools
• Work closely with project, site and commercial teams to support efficient project delivery
• Develop an understanding of how design supports quality, safety and programme outcomes

Why this role?

This apprenticeship provides a strong entry route into construction design and technical delivery, combining practical experience with a recognised qualification. On completion, you’ll be well placed to progress into a Level 6 Construction Design Management.

What we’re looking for

We’re looking for people who are creative, organised and technically curious. You’ll bring:

• GCSEs (or equivalent), including Maths and English
• A genuine interest in design, construction and the built environment
• Good attention to detail and problem‑solving skills
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• A proactive and methodical approach to work
• An interest in digital design tools and technical information
• A full UK driving licence (or working towards one by the time you start)

Previous design, technical or construction experience is desirable but not essential.

What we offer

• A structured Level 4 apprenticeship combining work‑based learning with formal study
• Mentoring and support from experienced design and technical professionals
• A competitive apprentice salary with progression as you develop
• 26 days annual leave plus bank holidays; Two days’ volunteering opportunities per year
• Opportunities to work on complex and meaningful projects across the UK
• An inclusive culture where your ideas and contributions are valued

Application & Selection Process

• Stage 1: Online application window – 9th February – 31st March 2026
  (We reserve the right to close vacancies early if sufficient applications are received.)

• Stage 2: Shortlisting and invitations to interview

• Stage 3: Interviews – dates to be confirmed

• Stage 4: Offers made

• Stage 5: Keeping in touch days with our Early Careers Manager

• Stage 6: Start date – w/c 7th September 2026

Why Tilbury Douglas?

We’re more than just a construction company — we’re a community of people working together to deliver projects that matter. We value collaboration, innovation and wellbeing, and we’re committed to developing talent at every stage.

We are a Platinum Member of the 5% Club, demonstrating our long‑term commitment to earn‑and‑learn opportunities.

Our values guide everything we do

• Everyone has a voice
• Do the right thing
• Take pride in what you do
• Bring better to life

Join Tilbury Douglas and take your first step towards a career in design and technical delivery.