Design Manager - Civils & Geo - Prisons

Laing O'Rourke; Manchester; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading construction company is seeking a Design Manager for the HMP Grendon project in Manchester. This role involves coordinating innovative design solutions in a complex, secure environment, ensuring compliance, and championing sustainability. Ideal candidates will have a strong background in design management and commitment to a culture of improvement.

Benefits

Professional development pathways

Inclusive benefits and flexible working

Supportive team culture

Qualifications

• Degree-qualified in an engineering, architectural or construction discipline.
• End-to-end design management experience in a contractor-side or multidisciplinary setting.
• Proven track record delivering complex infrastructure or secure environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead the coordination of design from early concept through to handover.
• Ensure compliance with technical, program and contractual requirements.
• Drive forward technical assurance while creating a culture of continuous improvement.

Skills

Design coordination

Consultant management

Change control

Sustainability

Education

Degree in engineering, architecture, or construction

Tools

BIM

Job description

We're Hiring: Design Manager – HMP Grendon Project

Based from Manchester | ️ Complex Project Delivery | ️ Ministry of Justice Portfolio

Are you passionate about shaping better outcomes through design? Do you thrive in fast-paced, multi-disciplinary environments where innovation meets delivery?

At Laing O'Rourke, we're looking for an experienced Design Manager to join our technical team delivering the HMP Grendon prison project, part of our long-standing Ministry of Justice portfolio. Based from our Manchester office, you'll play a critical role in coordinating and driving design excellence across one of the UK's most complex, secure environments.

The Opportunity

As Design Manager, you'll:

• Lead the coordination of design from early concept through to handover

• Ensure compliance with technical, programme and contractual requirements

• Champion DfMA, digital tools (like BIM), and sustainability within your design approach

• Collaborate with consultants, internal teams and stakeholders to optimise value and buildability

• Drive forward technical assurance while creating a culture of continuous improvement

This is a unique opportunity to be part of a nationally important project that demands creativity, precision, and leadership.

What You'll Bring

• Degree-qualified in an engineering, architectural or construction discipline

• End-to-end design management experience in a contractor-side or multidisciplinary setting

• Strong grasp of design coordination, consultant management, and change control

• Proven track record delivering complex infrastructure or secure environments (justice, defence, health, or similar sectors)

Why Laing O'Rourke?

We're a values-led business committed to shaping a better built environment. Our Engineering Enterprise model combines digital design, offsite manufacturing, and smart delivery. We offer:

• A supportive and innovative team culture

• Pathways for professional development and chartership

• Inclusive benefits and flexible working

• A role that genuinely makes an impact

Apply now to help us deliverdesign that matters – or refer a friend and help us shape the future.

At Laing O'Rourke, we welcome applicants from all backgrounds. We foster a culture of inclusion, respect, and opportunity. If you need any adjustments to support your application, just let us know.

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