Lead Designer

JR United Kingdom; Bedford; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A well-established steelwork company in Bedford is looking for a Lead Designer to oversee the design process of various structural and architectural projects. This senior role involves managing a design team, ensuring designs are compliant, and coordinating across departments. The ideal candidate has proven experience in the steelwork industry and proficiency in related design software.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Designer/Lead Designer in the steelwork industry.
• Ability to lead a design team and coordinate multiple projects.
• High attention to detail with the ability to meet deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the full design process on multiple projects.
• Manage and mentor draughtsmen and junior designers.
• Produce and review detailed drawings and 3D models.
• Ensure designs meet building codes and standards.
• Monitor project design schedules to meet deadlines.

Skills

Proficiency in steelwork detailing software

Strong understanding of steel fabrication

Excellent communication skills

Leadership capabilities

Problem-solving skills

Tools

Tekla Structures

Advance Steel

AutoCAD

Job description

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I am currently recruiting for a Lead Designer to join a well-established steelwork company based in Bedford. The business delivers a variety of structural and architectural steelwork projects across London and the Home Counties, ranging from large-scale structural frames to bespoke architectural metalwork.

The Role:

As the Lead Designer, you will be responsible for overseeing the full design process on multiple projects, managing a small design team, and ensuring all work is accurate, compliant, and delivered to client requirements. This is a senior, hands-on role where you’ll coordinate between engineers, draughtsmen, project managers, and clients to ensure designs are both practical and efficient for fabrication and installation.

Key Duties:

• Leading the design process on structural and architectural steelwork projects from concept through to completion
• Managing and mentoring draughtsmen and junior designers within the design office
• Producing and reviewing detailed GA drawings, fabrication drawings, and 3D models
• Ensuring all designs meet relevant building codes, standards, and client specifications
• Preparing and checking Bills of Materials, cutting lists, and fabrication information
• Liaising with structural engineers, architects, project managers, and site teams to resolve design queries
• Coordinating with the production and workshop teams to ensure designs are practical for manufacture
• Attending client meetings and site visits as required to support project delivery
• Monitoring project design schedules to ensure deadlines are met
• Driving quality, accuracy, and efficiency across all design output

The Candidate:

• Proven experience as a Designer/Lead Designer within the structural and architectural steelwork industry
• Proficiency in relevant steelwork detailing and modelling software (Tekla Structures, Advance Steel, or AutoCAD)
• Strong understanding of steel fabrication and installation processes
• Ability to lead a design team and coordinate multiple live projects
• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills
• High attention to detail with the ability to manage workloads and meet deadlines

Location & Projects:

• Office-based in Bedford
• Projects located across London and the Home Counties

This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced steelwork designer to step into a lead role within a respected and growing company, taking ownership of the design department and delivering high-quality projects.