Senior Design Manager – Lead Defence & Nuclear Projects (Site-Based)

4 Front; Bristol; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading design and build contractor is seeking an experienced Senior Design Manager to lead high-value projects in the defence and nuclear sectors across Wiltshire and Bristol. The ideal candidate will manage the complete design lifecycle, ensuring compliance with regulations and delivering innovative, cost-effective solutions. A competitive salary of £80,000–£90,000 is offered along with career development and job security within a supportive culture.

Benefits

Company car or car allowance

Career development with training

Long-term project stability

Professional development support

Qualifications

• 10+ years in design management within construction.
• Proven experience in defence, MOD, nuclear, or highly regulated sectors.
• Commercial awareness with ability to balance quality, cost, and programme.

Responsibilities

• Lead design delivery on £10m+ projects in defence, MOD, and nuclear environments.
• Coordinate multidisciplinary design teams and consultant relationships.
• Drive value engineering for innovative, cost-effective solutions.

Skills

Design management experience

Stakeholder management

Technical knowledge in construction

Excellent communication skills

Education

Professional qualification: RIBA, ICE, CIOB or equivalent

CSCS Black Card (Design Manager minimum)

SMSTS certification

Tools

BIM Level 2

Digital design platforms

Job description

A leading design and build contractor is seeking an experienced Senior Design Manager to lead high-value projects in the defence and nuclear sectors across Wiltshire and Bristol. The ideal candidate will manage the complete design lifecycle, ensuring compliance with regulations and delivering innovative, cost-effective solutions. A competitive salary of £80,000–£90,000 is offered along with career development and job security within a supportive culture.