Project Manager

First Recruitment Group; Peterborough; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading design and build provider in the water sector is seeking a skilled Project Manager (Design) to lead major infrastructure projects. This role offers competitive salary, hybrid working, and comprehensive benefits, ensuring designs meet operational and environmental objectives. Ideal candidates have a degree in civil engineering and expertise in managing complex projects along with knowledge of CDM 2015 regulations.

Benefits

25 days holiday plus bank holidays

Contributory pension scheme

Health and private medical insurance

Car/car allowance

Qualifications

• Proven experience in design or engineering leadership for complex infrastructure projects.
• Strong communicator with the ability to lead and influence at all levels.
• Proficient in managing multi-disciplinary project delivery.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design process for major capital projects from concept to detailed design.
• Manage design resources and ensure technical work stays on track.
• Mentor junior engineers and promote collaboration across disciplines.

Skills

Design leadership

Communication skills

BIM workflows

CDM 2015 knowledge

Problem-solving

Education

Degree, HNC, or HND in civil engineering

Tools

Digital design tools

Job description

Project Manager (Design) – Major Infrastructure/ Utilities

Location: Peterborough (Hybrid Working Available)

Permanent - Competitive salary plus Car / Car allowance

We are representing a leading design and build provider in the water sector who is seeking a skilled Project Manager (Design) to join their established engineering team.

This role offers the opportunity to lead the design process for major infrastructure projects, working across multiple disciplines and contributing to vital regional developments.

As Project Manager (Design), you will take full technical ownership from feasibility through to handover, ensuring designs meet operational, environmental, and commercial objectives.

This is a highly collaborative role, working closely with internal teams, delivery partners, and external stakeholders to achieve seamless, efficient project delivery.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design process for major capital projects, from concept through to detailed design and assurance.
• Ensure outputs meet project objectives across quality, cost, time, and sustainability.
• Act as Principal Designer under CDM 2015, managing design risk and prioritising safety.
• Drive digital excellence through BIM, 3D modelling, and integrated design processes.
• Challenge and enhance technical standards, promoting low-carbon and cost-effective solutions.
• Allocate and manage design resources, ensuring technical work stays on track.
• Build strong working relationships with operators, contractors, regulators, and communities.
• Mentor junior engineers and foster a positive learning culture.
• Promote collaboration across disciplines and uphold best practice in quality, health & safety.

Candidate Profile

• Degree, HNC, or HND in civil engineering or related discipline.
• Proven experience in design or engineering leadership for complex infrastructure or water projects.
• Working knowledge of CDM 2015 regulations and Principal Designer responsibilities.
• Skilled in managing multi-disciplinary project delivery, ideally in an alliance or joint venture.
• Proficient in digital design tools, BIM workflows, and integrated processes.
• Strong communicator with the ability to lead and influence at all levels.
• Proactive, solution-focused, and committed to continuous improvement.

Benefits Package

• Hybrid working (role-dependent)
• Car/car allowance (role-dependent)
• 25 days holiday + bank holidays (option to buy an additional 5 days)
• Contributory pension scheme
• Life assurance
• Health and private medical insurance
• Additional perks including cycle to work scheme, discounts hub, and family benefits

If you are an experienced engineering leader looking to work on impactful, sustainable infrastructure projects while enjoying a collaborative working environment, this is an excellent opportunity to take the next step in your career.