Design Manager – Construction / Civils

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager – Construction / Civils

Company: SRT Marine Systems plc

Location: Swindon, Wiltshire, SN1 2JH, United Kingdom

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Operations – Engineering & Construction Management

Date Posted: 2026-09-30

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

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage the design process for civil and construction projects, ensuring adherence to "Safety by Design" principles and all relevant regulations.

• Oversee the technical review and approval of civil designs, including reinforced concrete, site enablement, land development, and drainage systems.

• Collaborate effectively with project teams, internal stakeholders, subcontractors, and international clients to deliver safe and suitable scope of works aligned with project objectives.

• Drive continuous improvement within the design team by developing and implementing robust policies, processes, and procedures, with a focus on upskilling and software utilization.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within the engineering and construction management domain, focusing on the operational aspects of project delivery for specialized marine surveillance systems. The "Design Manager – Construction / Civils" title indicates a strong emphasis on operational execution, process adherence, and team leadership within a technically demanding environment. The high travel requirement (up to 75%) suggests a critical need for strong project management and client-facing skills, directly impacting the successful deployment of SRT's global systems.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Drive a "Safety by Design" approach across all civil and construction projects, integrating safety considerations from the initial design stages through to implementation.

• Ensure design processes are consistently reviewed, communicated, and implemented, with a clear protocol for managing and documenting any necessary deviations.

• Lead and critically review various civil project designs, encompassing reinforced concrete design and detailing, site design and enablement, land development strategies, and drainage system specifications.

• Maintain strict compliance with CDM regulations and all other applicable legal and regulatory requirements pertinent to the design and construction of marine surveillance system infrastructure.

• Undertake rigorous technical quality assurance reviews of designs and provide formal design approvals as required, ensuring technical integrity and project feasibility.

• Assist in the management of the tender process by providing expert advice, interpreting scopes of works, and contributing to the formulation of winning bids.

• Develop and implement comprehensive policies, processes, and procedures to foster the continual improvement of the engineering design delivery teams.

• Act as Contractor Design Approval Engineer (CDAE) or equivalent role, depending on project specifics, to ensure design accountability and compliance.

• Support the advancement of engineering design delivery within the teams, with a particular focus on upskilling team members in the use of advanced design software and methodologies.

• Contribute to the development and updating of design aids and computer programs, assisting in the analysis of new design concepts to enhance product and system capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical leadership, regulatory compliance, and process management crucial for operations in the construction and civil engineering sector. The emphasis on "Safety by Design," "CDM regulations," and acting as "CDAE" points to a role with significant accountability for operational safety and project delivery standards. The requirement to "upskill and use of software" suggests a forward-thinking approach to operational efficiency through technology adoption.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Degree level education or equivalent, with formal training in civil engineering and/or geotechnical engineering.

Experience: Strong, proven experience in the civil engineering industry, specifically in the management and design of civil or geotechnical engineering works.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in Civil Engineering principles and practices.

• Demonstrated experience in Geotechnical Engineering and relevant design methodologies.

• Proven ability in Design Management, overseeing project lifecycles from concept to completion.

• In-depth knowledge and application of CDM regulations and other relevant construction safety standards.

• Strong capabilities in Technical Quality Assurance and design review processes.

• Expertise in Reinforced Concrete Design and detailing.

• Experience in Site Design and enablement strategies.

• Proficiency in Land Development planning and execution.

• Knowledge of Drainage Systems design and implementation.

• Experience in managing the Tender Process and interpreting technical specifications.

• Familiarity with CAD software for design visualization and documentation.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Word for documentation and reporting.

• Competency in Microsoft Excel for data analysis and project tracking.

• Excellent Communication Skills, with the ability to tailor communication styles to diverse audiences, including international clients.

• Strong Project Management acumen. Preferred Skills:

• Experience in the civil design for communication towers.

• Experience in the civil design for data centres.

• Experience with international design standards and practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a robust technical foundation in civil and geotechnical engineering, coupled with essential management and regulatory knowledge. The preference for experience in specific infrastructure types like communication towers and data centers suggests that SRT Marine Systems may be involved in projects requiring similar specialized civil works, indicating a strategic operational focus. The requirement for international design knowledge further aligns with the company's global reach.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a track record of successfully managed civil design projects, showcasing the full project lifecycle from inception to completion.

• Provide examples of design documentation, including detailed drawings, specifications, and reports, highlighting complex reinforced concrete structures, site enablement, or drainage systems.

• Include case studies that illustrate the application of "Safety by Design" principles and compliance with CDM regulations, detailing how risks were identified and mitigated.

• Showcase experience in managing design processes within a project management framework, emphasizing workflow optimization and efficiency gains.

• Present examples of technical quality assurance processes implemented and outcomes achieved. Process Documentation:

• Evidence of developing and implementing structured design processes, including workflow mapping, standardization, and optimization phases.

• Documentation of processes for managing design deviations, exceptions, and ensuring regulatory compliance (e.g., CDM).

• Examples of how design aids and computer programs were utilized and updated to enhance design analysis and efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role in operations, a portfolio is critical to demonstrate practical application of skills. Emphasis should be placed on process-driven outcomes, risk management (especially safety and regulatory), and efficiency improvements. The ability to document and communicate complex technical processes clearly is paramount.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Highly Competitive Salary (Specific range not provided, but benchmarked against industry standards for Design Managers with 5-10 years of experience in the UK construction/civil engineering sector. This typically ranges from £55,000 to £80,000 per annum, depending on precise experience, qualifications, and specific project responsibilities.)

Benefits:

• Private healthcare package, offering comprehensive medical coverage.

• Highly Competitive Salary, reflecting the experience and responsibilities of the role.

• 25 days of annual leave, increasing to 28 days with continued service, providing ample time for rest and personal pursuits.

• Real individual development opportunities, indicating a commitment to employee growth through training, mentorship, or advancement pathways.

Working Hours: Approximately 40 hours per week, with potential for flexibility due to the hybrid work arrangement and significant global travel requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on typical market rates for a Design Manager in the UK construction and civil engineering sector with the indicated experience level. The benefits package suggests a company that values employee well-being and professional development, which are key retention factors in operations roles. The high travel percentage means actual "on-site" working hours may vary significantly.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Marine Surveillance Technology & Systems. SRT Marine Systems plc operates at the forefront of Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) technologies, providing advanced systems for security, safety, and environmental protection. This niche industry requires a blend of high-tech engineering and robust, often rugged, system deployment, impacting operational priorities.

Company Size: Established, multi-national company with a global customer base. (Specific employee count not provided, but the "plc" designation suggests a significant, publicly traded entity.) This size implies structured processes and potentially complex cross-functional collaboration.

Founded: Information not explicitly provided, but described as "respected" and "established," indicating a mature organization with a history of operations and product development in its specialized field.

Team Structure:

• The role operates within a project-focused environment, collaborating with project teams, internal stakeholders (likely engineering, procurement, operations deployment), and subcontractors.

• The Design Manager likely leads a team of civil/construction designers or acts as a central point of technical authority for design aspects within project structures.

• Reporting structure is likely to a Senior Engineering Manager or Head of Project Delivery, with significant interaction with Project Managers and client representatives. Methodology:

• Data analysis and insights are crucial for design validation, risk assessment, and regulatory compliance.

• Workflow planning and optimization are central to the Design Manager's role, ensuring efficient and effective design delivery.

• Automation and efficiency practices are encouraged, particularly through the upskilling and adoption of advanced design software.

Company Website: https://srtmarine.bamboohr.com/careers (Note: This is the careers portal; the main company website is likely srt-marine.com)

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on marine surveillance and international operations suggests a culture that values precision, reliability, and global reach. The need for a Design Manager with extensive travel implies a hands-on, results-oriented operational approach that extends beyond the office.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a mid-to-senior level management position within the engineering operations function. It requires significant technical expertise, proven leadership in design and construction, and the ability to manage complex projects and international client relationships. The role is critical for ensuring the successful physical implementation of SRT's advanced technology solutions.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will likely report to a higher-level engineering or project management executive, potentially the Head of Engineering or Director of Project Delivery. They will manage a team of designers and collaborate closely with Project Managers, Procurement, and on-site operations teams.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's work directly impacts the operational viability, safety, and efficiency of SRT's global surveillance systems. Their designs form the physical foundation for these systems, influencing long-term maintenance, scalability, and overall project success. Effective design management is crucial for controlling project costs, timelines, and ensuring client satisfaction.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization Advancement: Deepen expertise in specific areas like advanced concrete structures, geotechnical solutions for challenging environments, or specialized infrastructure for communication and data facilities.

• Leadership Expansion: Transition into roles such as Head of Engineering, Director of Project Delivery, or Programme Manager, overseeing larger portfolios of international projects.

• Technical Authority: Become a recognized subject matter expert within SRT Marine Systems, advising on complex design challenges and contributing to strategic technological development.

• International Project Leadership: Take on more significant roles in managing multi-national projects, potentially leading teams in different regions and developing global design standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career progression within a specialized technical and operational field. The growth opportunities are tied to increasing responsibility, technical depth, and strategic impact on global operations.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid working arrangement, with a primary base in the Bristol office. This indicates a balance between in-office collaboration and remote work flexibility.

Office Location(s): Based from their Bristol office (SN1 2JH), with significant global travel (up to 75%) required to support business and project delivery.

Workspace Context:

• The Bristol office likely provides a collaborative environment for design teams, project meetings, and administrative tasks. Access to necessary design software and IT infrastructure would be standard.

• The high travel component means the workspace will frequently be on client sites, construction locations, or potentially temporary project offices internationally, requiring adaptability and self-sufficiency.

• Opportunities for interaction will include team meetings, client consultations, site visits, and collaboration with diverse, international project stakeholders.

Work Schedule: Approximately 40 hours per week, with flexibility expected due to the demands of international travel and project deadlines. This may involve working outside standard hours to accommodate global time zones and urgent project needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model combined with extensive travel suggests a role that requires significant autonomy and self-management. Operations professionals in this role must be comfortable working in varied environments and managing their time effectively across different locations and time zones.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and cover letter, focusing on civil/construction design experience, regulatory knowledge (CDM), and management capabilities.

• Technical Interview: In-depth discussion on civil engineering design principles, geotechnical considerations, reinforced concrete design, and experience with specific infrastructure types. Assessment of problem-solving skills related to design challenges.

• Portfolio Review Session: Presentation of key design projects, case studies demonstrating "Safety by Design," regulatory compliance, and process improvements. Focus on tangible outcomes and ROI where applicable.

• Management & Cultural Fit Interview: Assessment of leadership style, team management, communication skills, ability to handle high-pressure situations, and fit with SRT's international and results-driven culture.

• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership to discuss strategic alignment and long-term potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or by key responsibility area (e.g., Safety Design, Reinforced Concrete, Site Enablement).

• Case Studies: For each significant project, create a concise case study highlighting: the challenge, your role and responsibilities, the design solutions implemented, the processes followed (especially for safety and compliance), and the measurable outcomes (e.g., cost savings, time efficiencies, risk reduction).

• Visuals: Include high-quality visuals such as drawings, schematics, site plans, and photos of completed projects where appropriate.

• Quantify Impact: Wherever possible, quantify the impact of your work using metrics relevant to construction and operations (e.g., percentage reduction in design conflicts, adherence to budget, timeline improvements).

• Tailor to SRT: Emphasize experience relevant to SRT's domain – marine surveillance infrastructure, communication towers, data centers, or similar complex civil works. Highlight international experience.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for scenario-based questions regarding design conflicts, regulatory issues, or managing difficult stakeholders.

• Practice articulating your design philosophy, leadership approach, and how you foster continuous improvement within a team.

• Research SRT Marine Systems' projects and their global presence to demonstrate genuine interest and understanding of their operational context.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily scrutinize technical competence, regulatory adherence, and practical project management experience. A strong, well-documented portfolio that showcases process-driven success and quantifiable results is essential for this operations-focused role.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency in industry-standard CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, Civil 3D, Revit) for creating detailed engineering drawings and models.

• Design & Analysis Software: Experience with specialized civil engineering and geotechnical analysis software (e.g., STAAD.Pro, SAP2000 for structural analysis; GeoStudio, Plaxis for geotechnical analysis).

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with project management tools (e.g., Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Asana, Trello) to manage timelines, resources, and project workflows.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Microsoft Excel: Advanced use for data analysis, cost tracking, scheduling, and reporting.

• Reporting Tools: Ability to generate technical reports and presentations using standard office suites.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design data integrates with project management and potentially client reporting systems is beneficial.

• Familiarity with workflow automation tools or principles within design processes can be an advantage.

• Integration Tools: Understanding how design software outputs integrate with other project lifecycle management tools.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack emphasizes core engineering design tools, project management platforms, and data analysis capabilities. Proficiency in CAD and relevant civil/geotechnical analysis software is non-negotiable.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: A paramount value, integrated into all aspects of design and project execution, reflecting the "Safety by Design" mandate