Technical Design Lead (LCDAE) - Energy

WSP in the UK & Ireland; Leeds; Hybrid; GBP 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid working policy

Access to Thrive programme

Gymflex scheme for gym memberships

Opportunities for training and mentoring

Job summary

WSP in the UK & Ireland is seeking a Lead Design Manager to oversee design projects within the UK’s electricity transmission and distribution sector. You will work closely with project leaders to manage engineering design work, ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards.

The ideal candidate will possess a Bachelor's degree and experience in managing multiple high-value projects. This position offers a hybrid working policy, allowing flexibility to work from home two days a week.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree with design management experience.
• Advanced understanding of UK CDM Regulations.
• Proven experience managing complex projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead design projects from FEED to closeout.
• Manage project resources, risks, and finances.
• Act as key client contact to ensure project satisfaction.

Skills

Design management experience

Understanding of UK CDM Regulations

Leadership in client success

Technical management skills

Knowledge of NEC and FIDIC contracts

Business development skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline

Job description

Role Summary

As a Lead Design Manager at WSP you will lead and manage design projects within the UK’s electricity transmission and distribution sector. Working alongside the Project Director and Project Manager, you will oversee engineering design work and deliver project management services, ensuring compliance with best practices and UK regulations.

Your responsibilities include assembling project teams from global offices, managing design processes, and driving projects from concept to completion while maintaining high standards in safety, quality, and efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead large‑scale design projects, overseeing all phases from FEED (Front‑End Engineering Design) to project closeout.
• Provide overall project management including resourcing, risk management, and financial oversight.
• Act as a key point of contact for clients, ensuring projects are completed on time, within budget, and to client satisfaction.
• Ensure compliance with WSP’s and client‑specific design processes and safety standards.
• Lead contract negotiations and actively pursue new business opportunities.
• Manage subcontractors, regulatory bodies, and project stakeholders, ensuring effective collaboration and communication.
• Act as Lead Contractor Design Approval Engineer (LCDAE), ensuring compliance with UK Construction regulations and National Grid procedures.
• Lead engineering design efforts across the UK business, collaborating with the Engineering Director to form global project teams.
• Drive strategic development of the department and contribute to business planning.
• Foster a world‑class customer service culture to drive client success and maintain a high standard of ethics and integrity.
• Act as principal designer representative (PD Rep).

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline with design management experience.
• Advanced understanding of UK CDM Regulations and different forms of contracts (NEC, FIDIC).
• Proven experience managing multiple high‑value, complex projects.
• Experience working on National Grid Electricity Transmission projects is an advantage.
• Strong technical, contractual, and financial management skills.
• Leadership in fostering client success and world‑class customer service.
• Ability to provide mentorship and technical guidance to junior staff.
• Proven track record in business growth and identifying new opportunities.

Benefits

Work‑life balance

Hybrid working policy offers the flexibility to work from home two days a week, while also providing opportunities to collaborate in modern offices across the UK.

Inclusivity & Belonging

We welcome applicants with varied backgrounds and experiences. Employees are encouraged to bring their whole and authentic selves to work, and we support a culture of inclusion and belonging.

Health & Wellbeing

Access to the Thrive programme, a virtual GP service, reasonable workplace adjustments, a Gymflex scheme offering up to 40% off gym memberships, and a comprehensive menopause support package.

Flex your time

“WSP My Hour” allows one hour each day for personal activities, with flexibility to make up the time earlier or later. Part‑time and flexible working arrangements and additional leave purchase options are also available.

Your development

Opportunities for training, mentoring, and Chartership to support professional growth.

EEO Statement

Here at WSP we positively encourage applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, pregnancy or maternity/paternity. As a Disability Confident leader, we will interview all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria, please let us know if you require any workplace adjustments in support of your application.