Design Manager - Aviation / Building Services

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager - Aviation / Building Services

Company: Galliford Try

Location: Stansted, Essex, United Kingdom

Job Type: Full time

Category: Engineering / Design Management

Date Posted: April 30, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (5-10 years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage electrical and building services design activities within Galliford Try's AI Aviation Business, ensuring high-quality, compliant, and innovative engineering solutions.

• Foster an inclusive, high-performing design team through effective leadership, mentoring, and performance management, aligning with organizational values and culture.

• Uphold strict adherence to technical standards, regulatory requirements (including BMS and CDM), and organizational quality/safety processes within live aviation environments.

• Drive value engineering and technical excellence by providing clear guidance, reviewing deliverables, and collaborating across client, subcontractor, and internal teams.

• Spearhead technical site assessments, scope development, specification writing, and tender support, ensuring accurate and competitive technical input for new projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role is designated as hybrid, indicating a balance between on-site responsibilities at the Stansted location and potential remote work flexibility, which will be discussed during the recruitment process. The emphasis on "AI Aviation Business" suggests a focus on advanced, intelligent, and data-driven design solutions within the aviation sector.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Oversee the day-to-day execution of electrical and building services design, ensuring safe, compliant, and high-quality project outcomes.

• Cultivate and develop a design team, promoting an inclusive culture, effective mentorship, and robust performance management.

• Ensure all design activities comply with stringent technical standards, relevant regulations (e.g., BMS, CDM), and company quality assurance protocols.

• Provide expert technical direction, conduct thorough design reviews, and facilitate collaboration with clients, subcontractors, and project stakeholders to deliver optimal engineering solutions.

• Lead comprehensive technical site assessments, define project scopes, develop detailed specifications, and critically evaluate subcontractor proposals to support tender submissions.

• Manage the design change control process, proactively communicate risks and changes (CEs/EWs), and ensure seamless integration with construction and commissioning phases.

• Champion the adoption of innovative design methodologies and digital engineering practices to enhance efficiency, collaboration, and overall design quality.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical leadership, team management, and project execution oversight, with a strong emphasis on compliance and quality within a complex operational environment (aviation). The mention of "value-engineered solutions" indicates a focus on cost-effectiveness without compromising quality or functionality.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Building Services Engineering, or a related technical field is typically expected for a Design Manager role of this nature. Professional certifications in relevant engineering disciplines are highly advantageous.

Experience: A minimum of 5-10 years of progressive experience in electrical and building services design, with a significant portion demonstrating leadership and management responsibilities. Experience within the construction industry, particularly in large-scale infrastructure projects, is crucial.

Required Skills:

• Proven leadership and team management capabilities, with experience in mentoring and developing engineering teams.

• Strong technical expertise in electrical design and building services engineering, including knowledge of relevant standards and regulations.

• In-depth understanding of aviation infrastructure and intelligent building systems.

• Familiarity with Building Management Systems (BMS) and Construction Design and Management (CDM) regulations.

• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse groups.

• Experience in technical site assessments, scope definition, and specification development.

• Proficiency in managing design change control processes and associated risks.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience working in fast-paced, multi-site infrastructure environments, such as airports or complex transport hubs.

• Demonstrated ability in value engineering and developing cost-effective design solutions.

• Experience with tendering processes and providing accurate technical input.

• Familiarity with project management methodologies and tools.

• Knowledge of security programs within Critical National Infrastructure (CNI) settings.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific educational qualifications are not explicitly stated, the role's seniority and technical demands strongly imply a requirement for a relevant engineering degree. The experience level suggests a need for candidates who have progressed beyond purely technical execution to encompass management and strategic oversight.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate successful leadership of electrical and building services design projects, showcasing complex problem-solving and innovative solutions.

• Provide examples of how design processes were optimized for efficiency, compliance, and quality in challenging environments.

• Showcase experience with system implementation, particularly in areas like BMS and intelligent building systems within aviation or similar critical infrastructure.

Process Documentation:

• Evidence of developing and implementing structured design workflows, from initial concept to final handover.

• Examples of process improvements that led to enhanced collaboration, reduced design iterations, or improved constructability.

• Documentation illustrating how design processes were monitored, measured, and refined for continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates are expected to present a portfolio that not only showcases technical design proficiency but also their ability to manage design processes, teams, and projects effectively. The emphasis on aviation and critical infrastructure suggests a need for a portfolio that highlights experience with stringent regulatory environments and operational continuity.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for Design Managers with 5-10 years of experience in the UK construction and engineering sector, particularly in specialized fields like aviation, the estimated salary range for this role in Stansted, Essex, would be approximately £60,000 - £80,000 per annum. This estimate accounts for the role's seniority, technical complexity, and location.

Benefits:

• Generous holiday entitlement, with increases based on years of service, plus the option to purchase additional holidays.

• A wide array of corporate discounts for various products and services.

• Cycle to Work schemes to promote sustainable commuting.

• Comprehensive pension plan to support long-term financial security.

• Regular Save as You Earn (SAYE) share purchase scheme, allowing employees to invest in the company.

• Private medical scheme options available for salaried employees.

• Employee assistance programme offering free 24/7 confidential support for personal and professional matters.

• Paid annual membership to one recognised professional association relevant to the role, supporting professional development.

Working Hours: The standard working hours are estimated at 40 hours per week, aligning with industry norms for full-time roles. The company promotes "Agile Working," suggesting flexibility in when, where, and how work is performed, which will be discussed during the recruitment process.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on research of similar Design Manager roles in the UK construction sector, considering location (Essex), experience level (5-10 years), and industry specialization (aviation/building services). Benefits are comprehensive and reflect Galliford Try's commitment to employee well-being and professional growth.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Galliford Try operates within the UK's construction and infrastructure sector, with its Asset Intelligence business focusing on Critical National Infrastructure (CNI). This includes vital sectors such as Defence, Water, Energy, Transport, and Telecommunications, requiring a high degree of reliability, security, and operational continuity.

Company Size: Galliford Try is a large principal contractor with an order book exceeding £4.1 billion, indicating a substantial organization with a significant market presence and numerous ongoing projects. This size offers stability and opportunities for large-scale project involvement.

Founded: Galliford Try has a long-standing history in the construction industry, positioning itself as a progressive and people-oriented business driven by its core values.

Team Structure:

• The AI Aviation Business likely comprises specialized teams focused on various aspects of design, engineering, and project delivery within the aviation sector. The Design Manager will lead a team of electrical and building services designers.

• Reporting to the Technical Director, the Design Manager will be part of a broader engineering and technical leadership structure within the Asset Intelligence division.

Methodology:

• Data analysis and insights are likely employed to inform design decisions and optimize performance, particularly within intelligent building systems and security programs.

• Workflow planning and optimization strategies are critical for managing complex, multi-stakeholder projects and ensuring efficient design delivery.

• Automation and efficiency practices are encouraged, with a focus on digital engineering approaches to improve collaborative design processes and project outcomes.

Company Website: https://www.gallifordtry.co.uk/

📝 Enhancement Note: Galliford Try's focus on CNI and aviation suggests a culture that values safety, security, precision, and reliability. The company emphasizes its commitment to its people, values, and delivering lasting change, indicating a professional and purpose-driven work environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a mid-to-senior level, requiring significant technical expertise and prior experience in managing design processes and teams. It is a critical leadership position within the AI Aviation Business, responsible for technical governance and the successful delivery of complex design projects.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager reports directly to the Technical Director, indicating a clear line of accountability. They will, in turn, lead a team of designers, managing their performance and development. This structure facilitates focused technical oversight and strategic alignment.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's role has a direct and significant impact on project success, safety, compliance, and client satisfaction. Their leadership in design influences project cost, timeline, operational efficiency, and the overall quality of infrastructure delivered, particularly within the critical aviation environment.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Opportunities to deepen expertise in aviation-specific design challenges, advanced building services, intelligent systems, and digital engineering methodologies.

• Leadership Development: Potential to advance into roles with broader project oversight, divisional management, or specialized technical leadership positions within Galliford Try's diverse sectors.

• Industry Recognition: Through successful project delivery and contributions to industry best practices, there are opportunities for professional recognition and career progression within the construction and infrastructure sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear pathway for career progression within a large, established construction group. Growth is likely tied to successful project delivery, team leadership, and a commitment to continuous learning in specialized fields like aviation infrastructure and digital engineering.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Stansted, Essex, and is described as "Hybrid." This suggests a modern office environment that supports collaborative design work, team meetings, and administrative tasks, complemented by the flexibility to work remotely for certain activities.

Office Location(s): The primary work location is Stansted, Essex, United Kingdom. This location is strategic for supporting aviation projects and likely offers good transport links.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is designed to foster collaboration among design teams, project managers, and other internal stakeholders, facilitating efficient communication and problem-solving.

• Access to relevant design software, digital engineering tools, and potentially advanced visualization technologies is expected to support the team's work.

• Opportunities for interaction with construction site teams might be integrated, particularly during site assessments and project handover phases.

Work Schedule: While the standard is 40 hours per week, the "Agile Working" program indicates flexibility. This could involve variations in start/end times, compressed workweeks, or a combination of on-site and remote working days, tailored to project needs and team agreements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role, combined with Galliford Try's Agile Working policy, suggests a modern and flexible work environment focused on output and collaboration rather than strict adherence to traditional office hours and locations.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and application to assess suitability against the core requirements, with particular attention to your design management experience and technical background.

• Competency-Based Interview: Likely with the hiring manager (Skyemarie Bree) and potentially a Technical Director or senior colleague, focusing on behavioural questions related to leadership, team management, problem-solving, and stakeholder engagement. Be prepared to discuss specific examples from your experience.

• Technical Assessment/Portfolio Review: You may be asked to present a portfolio showcasing your design management experience, highlighting key projects, design methodologies, and successful outcomes in aviation or similar complex infrastructure. This is where you demonstrate your technical governance and process optimization capabilities.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership to discuss cultural fit, strategic alignment, and overall suitability for the role and Galliford Try's values.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 2-3 projects that best demonstrate your leadership in electrical and building services design for aviation or complex infrastructure. Focus on projects with significant technical challenges, regulatory compliance aspects, and successful team collaboration.

• Quantify Impact: For each project, clearly articulate your role, the challenges faced, the design solutions implemented, and the measurable outcomes (e.g., cost savings through value engineering, efficiency gains through digital tools, compliance achievements, successful handover).

• Highlight Processes: Showcase your approach to design management, including team leadership, technical governance, risk management, change control, and the adoption of digital engineering.

• Tailor to Galliford Try: Research Galliford Try's values, recent projects (especially in aviation or CNI), and their approach to innovation and sustainability. Frame your experience and portfolio examples to resonate with their priorities.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for scenario-based questions that test your problem-solving skills in areas such as managing design conflicts, mitigating project risks, or responding to client change requests in a live aviation environment.

• Practice articulating your technical decisions and design strategies clearly and concisely, focusing on how your approach ensures compliance, safety, and value.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely assess not only technical competence but also leadership potential, problem-solving abilities, and cultural alignment. A well-prepared portfolio that demonstrates practical application of design management principles and impact is crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency in industry-standard CAD software such as AutoCAD, Revit, Navisworks, and potentially specialized electrical design software (e.g., Amtech, ETAP) is expected for design creation and coordination.

• BIM Software: Experience with Building Information Modeling (BIM) tools and workflows is essential for integrated design and collaboration.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with project management platforms (e.g., Microsoft Project, Primavera P6) for planning, scheduling, and tracking design progress.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret design data and performance metrics; familiarity with tools that support data-driven decision-making.

• Reporting Tools: Experience in generating technical reports, design summaries, and progress updates for various stakeholders.

CRM & Automation:

• While not explicitly mentioned as a primary requirement for the Design Manager, understanding how design integrates with broader project management and client relationship management systems can be beneficial.

• Familiarity with digital engineering platforms and workflow automation tools that enhance design processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role heavily relies on sophisticated design and project management software. A strong understanding of BIM and digital engineering is increasingly becoming a standard expectation for design management roles in large infrastructure projects.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity: Doing the right thing in all aspects of design and project execution, ensuring ethical practices and transparency.

• Collaboration: Working effectively with internal teams, clients, subcontractors, and stakeholders to achieve shared project goals.

• Passion: A commitment to delivering high-quality engineering solutions and contributing to the success of critical infrastructure projects.

• Excellence: Striving for the highest standards in design quality, safety, compliance, and customer service.

• Respect: Fostering an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives are valued and contributions are recognized.

Collaboration Style:

• The culture emphasizes a collaborative approach, particularly across multidisciplinary teams involved in complex infrastructure projects.

• Open communication, constructive feedback, and knowledge sharing are encouraged to drive continuous improvement in design processes and project delivery.

• Stakeholder engagement is key, requiring proactive communication and relationship-building with clients, airport operators, and supply chain partners.

📝 Enhancement Note: Galliford Try's stated values of Integrity, Collaboration, Passion, Excellence, and Respect are central to its operations. Candidates should demonstrate how their working style aligns with these principles, particularly in the context of delivering critical infrastructure projects.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complexity of Aviation Environments: Designing and managing projects within live, high-security, and operational aviation settings presents unique challenges related to safety, access, phased works, and minimal disruption.

• Stakeholder Management: Coordinating the diverse interests and requirements of airport operators, regulatory bodies, airlines, subcontractors, and internal project teams can be demanding.

• Technological Integration: Keeping pace with and effectively integrating emerging digital engineering tools and advanced building technologies into design workflows requires continuous learning and adaptation.

• Maintaining Compliance: Ensuring adherence to stringent aviation-specific regulations, building codes, and safety standards (like CDM) throughout the design lifecycle.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Training: Access to training in advanced aviation engineering, intelligent building systems, digital construction techniques, and specific regulatory requirements.

• Professional Development: Support for obtaining or maintaining professional accreditations and memberships through paid association fees.

• Mentorship and Leadership Programs: Opportunities to be mentored by senior leaders and participate in leadership development frameworks to hone management and strategic skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents significant challenges inherent in high-stakes infrastructure projects, offering substantial opportunities for professional growth and skill development in specialized areas of engineering and project management.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you successfully led a design team through a complex infrastructure project with strict regulatory requirements. What was your approach to technical governance and risk management?" (Focus on leadership, process, and compliance)

• "How would you manage conflicting design requirements from different stakeholders (e.g., client operations vs. safety regulations) in an aviation project? Provide a specific example." (Focus on stakeholder management, problem-solving, and value engineering)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "How do Galliford Try's values (Integrity, Collaboration, Passion, Excellence, Respect) align with your own professional philosophy and how would you embody them in this role?" (Focus on cultural fit and values alignment)

• "What are your expectations regarding team collaboration and communication within a hybrid work environment, particularly for a critical infrastructure design team?" (Focus on work style and team dynamics)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Concise Narrative: For each project in your portfolio, present a clear, brief story highlighting the challenge, your strategic approach (design, process, team), the solutions implemented, and the quantifiable results.

• Visual Aids: Use diagrams, schematics, or renderings to illustrate complex design elements. Showcase screenshots of BIM models or digital workflows if applicable.

• Focus on Process: Emphasize your role in managing the design process, including team coordination, quality assurance, risk mitigation, and stakeholder communication.

• Q&A Readiness: Be prepared to answer detailed questions about your decisions, the tools you used, and how you handled specific project challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should include researching Galliford Try's current projects, understanding their approach to CNI and aviation work, and being ready to articulate your experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Oracle Cloud HCM platform.

• Portfolio Customization: Prepare a concise portfolio that highlights your most relevant experience in electrical and building services design management for aviation or similar complex infrastructure. Focus on projects demonstrating technical governance, process optimization, and successful stakeholder collaboration.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your CV to emphasize leadership experience, technical expertise in aviation/building services, familiarity with BMS and CDM, and any experience with digital engineering or BIM. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice answering competency-based and scenario-based questions related to design management, team leadership, and problem-solving in challenging environments. Prepare a compelling narrative for presenting your portfolio.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Galliford Try, its values, its Asset Intelligence business, and its work in the aviation and CNI sectors. Understand their commitment to safety, quality, and innovation.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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