Design Construction Manager

JR United Kingdom; Portsmouth; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading construction company seeks a Design Manager specializing in pharmaceutical fit-outs and life sciences projects across the South East. The successful candidate will manage design from inception to completion, ensuring compliance with project timelines and standards. This role requires a strong background in construction design management with a focus on life sciences.

Qualifications

• Experience managing projects from RIBA Stage 2 to 7.
• Background in life sciences or pharmaceutical sectors.
• Strong understanding of design documentation standards.

Responsibilities

• Manage design consultants and ensure timely delivery of design information.
• Lead design meetings and track design progress.
• Align design deliverables with project requirements.

Skills

Project Management

NEC Contracts Understanding

Architectural Design

Hands-on Technical Knowledge

Communication

Education

Minimum of 6 years’ experience in a construction design management role

Tools

Viewpoint for Projects (4Projects)

MS Office

Job description

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Client:

Meritus

Location:

portsmouth, hampshire, United Kingdom

Job Category:

Other

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EU work permit required:

Yes

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Job Views:

3

Posted:

04.06.2025

Expiry Date:

19.07.2025

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Job Description:

Design Manager (Construction) | Life Sciences | South East Region | Above Market Rate Salary (Enquire For Details)

MERITUS are excited to be working with a market leading Construction Company. We're looking for a Design Manager with a background in pharmaceutical fit-out, life sciences, or complex refurbishment projects.

The successful candidate will join a leading construction framework delivering high-spec small works ranging from £300k to £4m. The role is covering the South West region based in St Albans covering sites across the South East region, where you’ll play a key part in a long-term, multi-year programme working alongside client and delivery teams.

To be successful you will need previous experience in the design of Life Science construction projects including fit outs, refurbishments & cleanroom / laboratory builds. In addition to this you will need experience managing design from RIBA Stage 2 to 7 & strong understanding of NEC contracts (NEC3/4).

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage and coordinate design consultants, sub-consultants, and subcontractors to ensure the timely delivery of accurate design information.
• Act as a mentor and lead for design coordinators during all project stages, including construction.
• Review and align design deliverables with Employer’s Requirements and Contractor Proposals.
• Lead regular design meetings, producing clear minutes and tracking design progress.
• Ensure all design documentation is aligned with project timelines and compliant with framework standards.

Skills Required:

• Proven ability to manage projects from RIBA Stage 2 through to Stage 7, ideally in life sciences or pharmaceutical sectors.
• Strong understanding of NEC contracts and contract deliverables.
• Background in Architectural or MEP design, with hands-on technical knowledge.
• Experience using Viewpoint for Projects (4Projects) and proficient in MS Office applications.
• Minimum of 6 years’ experience in a construction design management role.

If you believe that you have the skills and experience for the role – then please get in touch. We also offer a referral scheme for any candidates whose details are passed to us that we successfully place. If you have any further questions then please contact Ryan Harris at MERITUS Talent.