Senior Design Manager

ZipRecruiter; Bedford; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading construction company is seeking a Freelance Site-Based Design Manager for a flagship project in Bedfordshire. This long-term role involves overseeing design implementation, ensuring quality control, and acting as the key link between various project stakeholders. Ideal candidates will have a strong site-based background and experience in large industrial projects. This position offers a competitive day rate and excellent career progression opportunities.

Benefits

Long-term freelance opportunity

High-profile project

Excellent for career progression

Competitive day rate

Qualifications

• Experienced Design Manager with a strong site-based background.
• Proven track record in large industrial or automated projects.

Responsibilities

• Act as the key link between design teams, contractors, and consultants.
• Oversee design implementation on-site, ensuring compliance with drawings.
• Manage technical coordination and resolve clashes.

Skills

Problem-Solving

Communication

Job description

Job Description

Freelance Site-Based Design Manager – Flagship Project

Location: Bedfordshire

Start Date: May 2025

Contract: Long-term freelance 3+ Yrs

The Project

We’re recruiting a Site-Based Senior Design Manager for a flagship project in Bedfordshire. This is a high-profile project that will include a fully automated industrial unit with high-end offices and commercial space. You’ll be working on-site, representing the main contractor ensuring seamless design coordination, problem-solving, and quality control throughout the build.

The Role

• Act as the key link between design teams, contractors, and consultants
• Oversee design implementation on-site, ensuring compliance with drawings and specifications
• Manage technical coordination, resolving clashes and driving efficient solutions
• Ensure integration of automated systems, MEP, and industrial racking layouts
• Maintain high-end finishes in the office and commercial spaces
• Handle design variations, RFIs, and change management efficiently
• Work closely with stakeholders, ensuring smooth project delivery

What We’re Looking For

• Experienced Design Manager with a strong site-based background
• Proven track record in large industrial, hospital, airport, life sciences, data centre, or automated projects (advantageous)
• Excellent understanding of structural, architectural, and MEP coordination
• Ability to problem-solve on-site, working closely with construction teams
• Strong communication skills to liaise with contractors, consultants, and clients

What’s on Offer?

• Long-term freelance opportunity with a leading construction company
• High-profile project, excellent for career progression
• Competitive day rate, based on experience