Design Manager

NRL; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Part time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm in Birmingham is seeking an experienced Design Manager to oversee high-voltage Transmission & Distribution projects. The role involves managing project lifecycles, leading engineering teams, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Candidates should have a degree in Electrical Engineering and relevant experience in the T&D sector. Competitive daily rate with a hybrid working pattern.

Qualifications

• Proven experience managing engineering design in the T&D sector (132kV–400kV).
• Strong knowledge of National Grid standards (TP106, TP135, TP153).
• Understanding of CDM Regulations and UK HSE legislation.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design delivery for HV substations and cable infrastructure projects.
• Manage engineering teams and coordinate cross-discipline design activities.
• Ensure project designs comply with client specifications and regulatory standards.

Skills

Leadership

Project Management

Stakeholder Management

Technical Communication

MS Project

Microsoft Office

Education

Degree in Electrical Engineering or related discipline

Job description

Job Title

Design Manager

Location

Birmingham

Contract Type

6-Month rolling contract

Working Pattern

Hybrid – 2 / 3 days in office a week

Rate

£600 per day

Role Overview

We are looking for an experienced Design Manager to lead the delivery of engineering design projects within the high-voltage Transmission & Distribution (T&D) sector. This role will oversee multidisciplinary teams, manage project lifecycles from concept to construction support, and ensure that all technical and regulatory requirements are met to the highest standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design delivery for HV substations, overhead lines, and cable infrastructure projects (up to 400kV)
• Manage engineering teams and coordinate cross-discipline design activities across internal and external resources.
• Ensure project designs comply with client specifications, regulatory standards (CDM, National Grid TP procedures), and industry best practices.
• Oversee the full project lifecycle from FEED through to construction support and close-out.
• Act as Design Manager on Design & Build or EPC projects; potentially act as Project Manager for design-only schemes.
• Conduct design reviews, risk assessments, constructability reviews, and client meetings.
• Monitor project progress, budget, quality, safety, and scheduling targets.
• Develop project execution plans, manage resource planning, and maintain interdisciplinary coordination.
• Provide mentoring, technical support, and leadership to junior engineers and design staff.
• Support proposal development, tendering, and business development activities.

Requirements

• Degree in Electrical Engineering or related discipline.
• Proven experience managing engineering design in the T&D sector (132kV–400kV).
• Strong knowledge of National Grid standards (TP106, TP135, TP153) and NEC contract frameworks.
• Understanding of CDM Regulations and UK HSE and environmental legislation.
• Proficiency with MS Project and Microsoft Office suite.
• Exceptional leadership, coordination, and stakeholder management skills.
• Demonstrable experience in delivering technically complex and multi-stakeholder projects on time and within budget.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Desirable

• Chartered Engineer (or working toward it).
• Health & Safety qualification (NEBOSH, IOSH).
• Experience with project management methodologies (PRINCE2, APM, PMP).
• Familiarity with procedural control of Temporary Works and Impressed Voltage considerations.

About NRL

The NRL Group connect global companies with the right people to bring engineering projects to life. Supporting contracting companies with energy transition plans and working with our clients to create a cleaner, greener future.

If this position sounds of interest please send a copy of your CV to or apply directly.

We welcome applications from every walk of life and are committed to diversity within the industries we support, as a certified Inclusive Recruiter and Armed Forces friendly employer.

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