Design Manager - Water Framework - Contract Outside Of IR35

Shirley Parsons Ltd; Stockport; Hybrid; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading design firm in water infrastructure is looking for an experienced Design Manager to oversee a dynamic team in Stockport. The role includes managing design processes for complex water projects and ensuring deliverables meet industry standards. Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years in the regulated water industry and strong leadership skills. This is a hybrid position with a competitive day rate on a long-term contract.

Benefits

Flexible hybrid working model

Competitive day rate

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years' experience in water framework delivery.
• Proven track record in the regulated water industry.
• Strong leadership and team development skills.

Responsibilities

• Manage, mentor, and develop engineers, CAD technicians, and graduates.
• Lead the design process for complex, multidisciplinary water projects.
• Ensure design deliverables meet safety, quality, and integration standards.

Skills

Leadership skills

BIM expertise

3D modelling proficiency

Team development

Tools

Design software tools

Job description

Job Title: Design Manager – Water

Location: Stockport (Hybrid)

Engagement: Contract (Outside IR35)

Term: 12‑month rolling contract (Project scope: 4 years)

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Design Manager to lead and grow a dynamic design team within the regulated water industry. This is a pivotal role in delivering multidisciplinary projects under the AMP8 framework, ensuring innovation, quality, and efficiency at every stage.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage, mentor, and develop engineers, CAD technicians, and graduates.
• Grow the design team and foster a positive, collaborative culture.
• Lead the design process for complex, multidisciplinary water projects.
• Challenge and improve formal processes and procedures for design delivery.
• Drive adoption of BIM and 3D modelling; identify and implement appropriate software tools.
• Ensure design deliverables meet safety, quality, and integration standards.
• Deliver outputs within agreed timescales and budgets.
• Maintain compliance with industry standards and best practices.
• Record and manage project changes for design packages.
• Assist with estimating design hours and resource planning.

Experience & Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years' experience in water framework delivery.
• Proven track record in the regulated water industry.
• Strong leadership and team development skills.
• Expertise in BIM, 3D modelling, and design software tools.

Why Join Us?

• Work on high-impact projects shaping the future of water infrastructure.
• Long‑term engagement with a 4‑year project scope.
• Flexible hybrid working model.
• Competitive day rate (Outside IR35).

Interested? Apply now and be part of a team driving innovation in water design.