paralegal apprenticeship

Laing O'Rourke; Metropolitan Borough of Solihull; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading construction firm is seeking enthusiastic school leavers for an Apprentice Design Manager position. This role involves assisting the Design Manager with design compliance and engaging in continuous improvement. Candidates should have 5 GCSEs and 3 A-levels or equivalent. The apprenticeship provides a pathway to a degree-level qualification in Design and Construction Management. The program starts in September 2026 and applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

Qualifications

• 5 GCSEs including Maths and English are required.
• 3 A-levels or equivalent with a focus on maths or science.
• Eligibility to work in the UK is necessary.

Responsibilities

• Support design information review to ensure compliance.
• Assist in tracking design requirements and the design programme.
• Engage in continuous improvement activities related to design.

Skills

Effective communication

Problem-solving

Proactive learning

Design compliance

Education

5 GCSEs (preferably grades 7–4 in Maths and English)

3 A-levels or equivalent (e.g., 72 UCAS points, maths or science)

Job description

2026 – Design Manager Apprenticeship

We are seeking bright school leavers to join us as Apprentice Design Managers, bringing energy, new ideas and a fresh perspective to help us become the recognised leader and transform the construction and engineering industry.

Role Overview

The Apprentice Design Manager assists the Design Manager in reviewing design information to ensure it complies with design management procedures and contractual obligations. This includes client requirements, health & safety, sustainability, buildability, technical compliance, programme, and maintenance. The role is aligned with our strategy to maximise digital engineering and early engagement.

Key Deliverables & Accountabilities

• Review and support design information for completeness and compliance.
• Assist in setting and tracking design requirements under supervision.
• Support the Lead Designer in coordinating the design programme and reporting against it.
• Help ensure statutory compliance and external assurance.
• Coordinate with construction and handover teams to confirm design intent is met.
• Engage in continuous improvement activities and learn design optimisation basics.
• Demonstrate effective communication, problem‑solving and proactive learning.
• Take ownership of actions and decisions, maintaining accountability.

Location

Work may be performed away from home at project sites across the UK, as determined by project needs.

Apprenticeship Level

• Construction Design and Build Technician – Level 4.
• Progress to Design and Construction Management – Degree level.

Entry Requirements

• 5 GCSEs (preferably grades 7–4 in Maths and English).
• 3 A‑levels or equivalent (e.g., 72 UCAS points, math's or science).
• Eligibility to work in the UK, no visa sponsorship provided.

Application Process

• CV submission – Review against entry criteria.
• Online assessment – Includes situational, critical thinking and numerical reasoning tests.
• Video interview – Two questions set by the hiring team.
• Assessment centre – In‑person at a Laing O’Rourke office with individual tasks, short interviews and group activities.
• Outcome – Feedback communicated within two weeks.

The Professional Apprenticeship Programme will commence in September 2026. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and may close once enough candidates have applied.