Design Manager - Mechanical - Data Centres

Laing O'Rourke; East Hagbourne; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading construction firm in the UK is seeking a Design Manager to oversee mechanical design for a hyperscale data centre project. You will lead design activities, ensure compliance with standards, and collaborate with a variety of teams. The ideal candidate has over 5 years of experience in mechanical design management, preferably within major construction projects, and a degree in Mechanical Engineering. This role offers opportunities for continuous learning and career progression.

Benefits

Career progression opportunities

Collaborative culture

Continuous learning environment

Qualifications

• 5+ years of mechanical design management experience in construction projects.
• Experience with data centres or mission-critical infrastructure is highly desirable.
• Strong knowledge of design lifecycle management.

Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical design activities on a data centre project.
• Champion design assurance processes and compliance.
• Collaborate with teams and supply chain partners for design solutions.
• Support construction activities and resolve design queries.

Skills

Mechanical design management

Communication skills

Stakeholder management

Proactive problem-solving

Education

Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline

Job description

Overview

Are you ready to take on a pivotal role in one of the most dynamic and rapidly evolving sectors in construction? We are looking for a mechanically biased Design Manager to join our expert project team on a hyperscale data centre project in Slough. This is your opportunity to lead and influence the mechanical design delivery from early design development through to handover - ensuring technical excellence, buildability, and cutting-edge innovation.

What You'll Be Doing

• Lead the management and coordination of mechanical design activities on a fast-paced data centre project.
• Champion design assurance processes, ensuring compliance with project requirements, safety, and technical standards.
• Collaborate closely with internal teams, supply chain partners, and consultants to develop robust, efficient, and innovative design solutions.
• Drive continuous improvement by capturing lessons learnt and identifying opportunities for design innovation.
• Be a visible site-based design leader, supporting construction activities, resolving technical queries, and ensuring design intent is met during installation and commissioning phases.
• Work on cutting-edge projects with the latest in DfMA, digital engineering, and sustainable solutions.
• Be part of a supportive environment with continuous learning, development, and career progression opportunities.
• Enjoy a collaborative and inclusive culture where diversity of thought, background, and experience is celebrated.

Qualifications

• Degree qualified in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline; ideally Chartered or working towards Chartership.
• 5+ years of mechanical design management experience within major construction projects - experience in data centres, mission-critical infrastructure, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, or large-scale M&E projects is highly desirable.
• Strong knowledge of design lifecycle management, contractor engagement, and collaborative design development.
• A proactive and solutions-focused approach with excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.