Design Manager

Novax Recruitment Ltd; Oxford; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Novax Recruitment Ltd in Oxford, UK, seeks an experienced Design Manager to lead the structural steel design team. The role focuses on delivering designs from concept through construction with site liaison and subcontractor coordination.

You'll mentor the design team, review drawings and calculations, and ensure buildability and safety. Competitive salary (£50,000–£60,000) and a hands-on, site-facing role with growth opportunities.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Design Manager or Senior Structural Engineer in structural steel projects.
• Strong understanding of structural steel design principles, fabrication, and construction techniques.
• Experience attending site visits and coordinating with subcontractors.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and team management skills.
• Proficient in design software (AutoCAD, Tekla, Revit, or similar) and MS Office.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the design of structural steel projects from concept through to construction.
• Conduct regular site visits to coordinate with subcontractors and verify design implementation.
• Review and approve drawings, specifications, and calculations to ensure compliance with project requirements and industry standards.
• Liaise with clients, subcontractors, and project managers to resolve design issues and provide technical guidance.
• Manage and mentor the design team, ensuring high-quality outputs and adherence to deadlines.
• Maintain design records, track project progress, and report to senior management.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Communication

Site coordination

Tools

AutoCAD

Tekla

Revit

MS Office

Job description

Job Title: Design Manager - Structural Steel
Location: Oxford, UK
Salary: £50,000 - £60,000 per annum (dependent on experience)
Contract Type: Permanent

About the Role:

We are looking for an experienced Design Manager to lead the design function for structural steel projects based in Woodstock. The ideal candidate will have strong technical expertise, experience managing design teams, and a proven track record of liaising with subcontractors and attending site visits to ensure designs are practical, safe, and buildable.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage the design of structural steel projects from concept through to construction.

• Conduct regular site visits to coordinate with subcontractors and verify design implementation.

• Review and approve drawings, specifications, and calculations to ensure compliance with project requirements and industry standards.

• Liaise with clients, subcontractors, and project managers to resolve design issues and provide technical guidance.

• Manage and mentor the design team, ensuring high-quality outputs and adherence to deadlines.

• Maintain design records, track project progress, and report to senior management.

Candidate Requirements:

• Proven experience as a Design Manager or Senior Structural Engineer in structural steel projects.

• Strong understanding of structural steel design principles, fabrication, and construction techniques.

• Experience attending site visits and coordinating with subcontractors.

• Excellent communication, leadership, and team management skills.

• Proficient in design software (AutoCAD, Tekla, Revit, or similar) and MS Office.

Why Join Us:

• Competitive salary £50,000 - £60,000.

• Opportunity to lead exciting structural steel projects.

• Hands‑on role with site exposure and subcontractor engagement.

• Supportive team environment with career development opportunities.