Design Manager

The Highfield Company; City Of London; On-site; GBP 68,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A specialist design firm in London is seeking a Design Manager to lead the design management process for architectural metalwork projects. You will coordinate with clients and internal teams, ensuring design feasibility while managing technical aspects of projects. Ideal candidates will have proven experience in construction design management and strong skills in CAD tools. The role offers competitive compensation and involvement in high-profile projects.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Opportunities for professional development

Involvement in high-profile projects

Qualifications

• Proven experience in design management or preconstruction within construction, steelwork, or specialist subcontracting.
• Strong technical knowledge of structural or architectural design.
• Ability to balance cost, quality, and programme effectively.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design management process.
• Coordinate design input from internal engineers and external consultants.
• Review drawings and specifications for accuracy.
• Produce design programmes aligned with project schedules.
• Provide technical advice and solutions to clients.

Skills

Design management

Technical knowledge of structural design

Proficiency in CAD

Stakeholder management

Commercial awareness

Tools

Tekla

Solidworks

Job description

Design Manager - Architectural Metalwork

Position: Design Manager
Location: London
Salary: Up to £80,000

Purpose of the Role

The Design Manager will be responsible for leading and coordinating the design and technical aspects of projects during the preconstruction phase. This includes managing client expectations, ensuring design feasibility, developing accurate cost plans, and supporting a seamless transition from concept through to construction. The role requires strong technical expertise, commercial awareness, and the ability to build collaborative relationships with clients, architects, contractors, and internal teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design management process
• Coordinate design input from internal engineers, CAD technicians, and external consultants.
• Review drawings, models, and specifications for accuracy, feasibility, and value engineering opportunities.
• Produce and manage design programmes aligned with project schedules.
• Provide technical advice and solutions to clients and design teams.
• Identify design risks early and implement mitigation strategies.
• Support the preparation of tender submissions, including design presentations, clarifications, and technical proposals.
• Ensure all design work complies with current building regulations, safety standards, and accreditation requirements.
• Maintain strong communication with clients, architects, and main contractors throughout the preconstruction process.

Skills & Experience

• Proven experience in design management or preconstruction within construction, steelwork, or specialist subcontracting.
• Strong technical knowledge of structural or architectural design.
• Proficiency in CAD and 3D modelling software Tekla / Solidworks
• Commercial awareness with the ability to balance cost, quality, and programme.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.

Benefits

• Competitive salary (depending on experience).
• Opportunities for professional development and career progression.
• Involvement in high-profile and technically challenging projects.
• Supportive team environment with a focus on collaboration and excellence.