Principal Design Manager

ZipRecruiter; Sheffield; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading infrastructure company is seeking a Principal Highways Design Manager in Sheffield. The role involves managing design teams and overseeing highways infrastructure projects from concept to completion. Candidates should have at least 8 years of highways design experience and a strong background in civil engineering. This position offers a competitive salary and benefits including a pension scheme, generous holiday allowance, and flexible perks.

Benefits

Generous pension scheme

At least 24 days of holiday

Flexible benefits options

Exclusive discounts

2 paid volunteering days per year

Qualifications

• Minimum of 8 years’ experience in highways design with leadership or management experience.
• Strong understanding of UK highways design standards and approval processes.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design development of highway schemes from feasibility through to detailed design.
• Manage internal and external design teams, ensuring timely delivery of high-quality design outputs.
• Act as the primary point of contact for clients and stakeholders on design-related matters.

Skills

Highways design

Project management

Communication skills

Design software proficiency

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering

Tools

AutoCAD

MX

Keylines/Signs

Job description

Overview

We have a fantastic opportunity for a highly skilled Principal Highways Design Manager to lead and manage the design aspects of highways infrastructure projects from concept to completion. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in civil engineering and transportation infrastructure, with proven experience managing design teams and coordinating multi-disciplinary design input on major highways projects. Projects will range from Olive Grove depot (S2 3GE).

This position offers a competitive salary, dependent on experience and qualifications. The standard hours of work are 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday.

What You’ll Do

• Responsible for the delivery of the Design function of the Non-Core department.
• Lead the design development of highway schemes from feasibility through to detailed design.
• Manage internal and external design teams, ensuring the timely delivery of high-quality design outputs.
• Act as the primary point of contact for clients, consultants, and stakeholders on all design-related matters.
• Ensure compliance with relevant technical standards (e.g., DMRB, MCHW, Sheffield City Council guidelines).
• Oversee the production and review of design documentation, drawings, specifications, and reports.
• Coordinate with other disciplines including structures, drainage, geotechnics, and traffic management.
• Manage design risks and support the preparation of risk registers.
• Support the administration and production of tender contract documentation.
• Conduct design reviews, technical audits, and value engineering exercises.
• Provide technical leadership and mentoring to junior engineers and designers.
• Ensure adherence to CDM Regulations, health and safety standards, and sustainability objectives.
• Communicate effectively with the client team reporting on scheme progress.

What You’ll Bring

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or equivalent.
• Minimum of 8 years’ experience in highways design, with at least 3 years in a leadership or management role.
• Strong understanding of UK highways design standards and approval processes.
• Excellent project management and communication skills.
• Proficiency in relevant design software (e.g., AutoCAD, MX, Keylines/Signs, etc.).

Benefits

• Pension: Generous pension scheme with company contributions.
• Holidays: At least 24 days of holiday plus bank holidays, with the option to buy 5 additional days.
• Flexible Benefits: Options like additional leave, cycle-to-work schemes, charitable giving, and gym memberships.
• Exclusive Discounts: Discounts from leading retailers and services.
• Social Impact: 2x paid volunteering days per year and other community opportunities.

Application Guidance

At Amey, we value a culture of inclusion and encourage applications from individuals who are passionate about making a positive impact, regardless of background or personal circumstances. If you have questions or need adjustments during the recruitment process, contact the recruiter for this role.