Design Manager - Secondary Steelwork

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager - Secondary Steelwork

Company: Assystem

Location: Bristol, England, United Kingdom

Job Type: Full-time, Permanent

Category: Engineering / Technical Management

Date Posted: November 5, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversee the end-to-end production and management of deliverables for the secondary steelwork (SSW) team within a major nuclear project.

• Drive day-to-day project delivery by accurately scheduling and programming all SSW-related tasks and proactively identifying and managing risks to quality, cost, and program timelines.

• Apply in-depth knowledge of structural steelwork design and replication processes to identify opportunities for improvement, address gaps, and develop enhanced methodologies.

• Leverage technical expertise and operational experience to pinpoint areas of commercial and strategic significance for the project.

• Manage critical interfaces with other engineering disciplines and the broader project stakeholder network to ensure seamless integration and effective communication.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a Design Manager, indicating a significant level of responsibility in leading a specialized engineering team. The focus on "secondary steelwork" within a "major nuclear project" suggests a highly regulated and complex environment requiring meticulous attention to detail, adherence to stringent safety standards, and robust project management capabilities. The hybrid working arrangement and flexible hours are key benefits for operations professionals managing complex schedules.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Take full ownership of the secondary steelwork (SSW) team's daily operations, ensuring accurate scheduling, programming, and resource allocation for all deliverables.

• Proactively identify, assess, and manage risks and opportunities impacting the quality, cost, and timeline of SSW deliverables, implementing mitigation strategies as needed.

• Support the successful delivery of SSW replication by applying knowledge of relevant replication processes, identifying areas for enhancement, and driving continuous improvement initiatives.

• Apply technical and operational experience to translate complex engineering challenges into actionable insights for commercial and strategic decision-making.

• Establish and maintain robust communication channels and manage key interfaces with internal engineering teams, external stakeholders, and regulatory bodies to ensure project alignment and effective collaboration.

• Conduct regular technical reviews and progress meetings, clearly presenting and communicating complex technical topics and their operational impact to diverse stakeholder groups.

• Maintain comprehensive records of all meetings, presentations, and decisions, ensuring transparency and auditability throughout the project lifecycle.

• Identify and address training and competency requirements for the SSW team, ensuring all personnel hold current and valid competency assessments in line with project and regulatory standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a blend of technical leadership and project execution. The inclusion of "risk management," "stakeholder management," and "operational delivery" highlights the critical operations aspects of this role, requiring a candidate who can balance technical oversight with strategic project control. The emphasis on CDM 2015 also points to a strong regulatory compliance component.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Civil or Structural Engineering is essential.

• Related disciplines such as Mechanical Engineering may be considered if accompanied by demonstrable relevant design experience. Experience:

• Proven experience in the design of structural steelwork buildings, with a strong preference for adherence to relevant national standards, particularly Eurocodes.

• Significant experience in a complex self-delivery environment, demonstrating practical application of design and construction methodologies.

• A track record of success in operational delivery, showcasing the ability to plan and execute complex projects effectively to achieve desired outcomes. Required Skills:

• Structural Steelwork Design: Expertise in designing structural steelwork buildings to national standards (Eurocodes preferred).

• Project Management: Ability to manage deliverables, schedules, budgets, and risks within a complex project environment.

• Engineering Degree: Formal qualification in Civil, Structural, or a related engineering discipline.

• Operational Planning & Delivery: Demonstrable experience in planning and successfully executing operational plans.

• Stakeholder Management: Confidence and skill in presenting to and communicating with diverse, experienced stakeholder groups.

• Technical Communication: Ability to clearly articulate complex technical topics and their operational impact.

• Risk Management: Proficiency in identifying, assessing, and mitigating project risks.

• Regulatory Compliance: Working knowledge of CDM 2015 requirements.

Preferred Skills:

• Nuclear Sector Experience: Familiarity with the specific challenges and requirements of the nuclear industry.

• Plant Layout Engineering: Experience in designing and optimizing plant layouts.

• PWR Knowledge: Understanding of Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) systems and their associated engineering needs.

• Highly Regulated Environments: Experience working within stringent regulatory frameworks.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications clearly delineate between essential and desirable skills, emphasizing practical, hands-on experience in structural steelwork design and complex project delivery. The emphasis on Eurocodes and CDM 2015 points towards a need for candidates with strong foundational knowledge in current engineering standards and safety regulations, crucial for operations in a regulated industry.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Deliverables: Showcase examples of structural steelwork design packages, including calculations, drawings, and specifications, demonstrating adherence to Eurocodes and relevant standards.

• Project Execution Case Studies: Present case studies that detail your involvement in the operational planning and successful delivery of complex self-delivery projects, highlighting your role in scheduling, risk management, and interface coordination.

• Risk Management Frameworks: Include documentation or descriptions of risk assessment and mitigation processes you have implemented, illustrating your ability to manage project risks effectively.

• Stakeholder Communication Examples: Provide evidence of your ability to communicate complex technical information to diverse audiences, such as through presentation slides, meeting minutes, or reports that clearly articulate operational impacts.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Demonstrate experience in designing and optimizing engineering workflows for steelwork projects, emphasizing efficiency, quality control, and compliance.

• Implementation & Automation: Detail instances where you have overseen the implementation of design processes or introduced efficiencies through improved methodologies or tools.

• Performance Measurement: Outline how you have measured the performance of design processes, including metrics related to quality, cost, schedule adherence, and risk mitigation.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal portfolio isn't explicitly requested, the emphasis on "proven experience," "track record of success," and "demonstrable experience" implies that candidates should be prepared to discuss specific examples from their past projects. The portfolio should focus on showcasing practical application of design standards, project management skills, and successful operational delivery, particularly in complex or regulated environments.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

The salary for this Design Manager position is not explicitly stated in the job description. However, based on industry benchmarks for Design Managers with 5-10 years of experience in the UK, particularly within the nuclear or highly regulated engineering sectors, a competitive salary range would typically be between £55,000 and £75,000 per annum. This estimate accounts for the specialized nature of the role, the required technical expertise (structural steelwork, Eurocodes, CDM 2015), and the demanding project environment (major nuclear project).

Benefits:

• Hybrid Working Opportunity: Flexibility to balance office-based work with remote arrangements.

• Flexible Working Hours: Ability to manage working hours to accommodate project needs and personal commitments.

• Pension Scheme: Generous company contribution of 8% with a 4% personal contribution.

• Annual Leave: 25 days of paid annual leave plus bank holidays, with the option to buy or sell additional days.

• Professional Fees Reimbursed: Support for maintaining professional accreditations and memberships.

• Employee Referral Scheme: Incentives for referring successful candidates.

• Competitive Sick Pay: Financial support during periods of illness.

• Income Protection & Death-in-Service Cover: Comprehensive insurance benefits (3x salary death-in-service).

• Free Digital Gym Access: Access to online fitness classes and resources.

• 24/7 Employee Support Line: Confidential mental health, financial, and legal assistance.

Working Hours:

• The standard working hours are approximately 40 hours per week.

• The role offers flexible working hours, allowing for adaptation to project demands while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on general UK market data for similar roles and experience levels, adjusted for the specific industry and location. A detailed salary discussion would typically occur during the interview process. The provided benefits package is extensive and highly attractive, reflecting Assystem's commitment to employee well-being and professional development.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Nuclear Engineering, Highly Regulated Infrastructure Projects

Company Size: 8,000+ employees globally. Assystem is one of the top three independent nuclear engineering firms worldwide.

Founded: Over 60 years ago.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager will lead and manage the Secondary Steelwork (SSW) team, which is part of a larger engineering department focused on a major nuclear project.

• The team likely consists of design engineers, CAD technicians, and potentially project coordinators specializing in steelwork.

• Reporting structure will involve reporting to a senior project manager or head of engineering, with direct management of the SSW team members.

• Collaboration is expected with various other disciplines including civil, mechanical, electrical, and safety engineers, as well as project controls, procurement, and construction teams. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Emphasis on using data from design analysis, risk assessments, and project performance to inform decisions.

• Process Optimization: Continuous focus on improving engineering workflows, delivery schedules, and risk management strategies.

• Collaboration and Communication: Strong emphasis on clear, consistent, and effective communication across all project stakeholders and disciplines.

• Safety and Quality Focus: Adherence to stringent safety standards (e.g., CDM 2015) and quality assurance processes is paramount in the nuclear sector.

Company Website: https://www.assystem.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Assystem's long history and global presence in highly regulated sectors like nuclear engineering indicate a culture that values expertise, safety, reliability, and long-term strategic thinking. The "top three independent nuclear engineering firms" status suggests a high level of technical capability and a reputation for handling complex, critical projects.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is at a mid-to-senior management level, overseeing a specialized engineering team and a critical project component. It requires a blend of technical authority and project leadership.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will report to a senior figure within the project's engineering or management structure, likely a Project Director, Head of Engineering, or similar. They will, in turn, manage a team of design professionals focused on secondary steelwork.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's role directly impacts the project's success by ensuring the timely, cost-effective, and high-quality delivery of secondary steelwork. This component is crucial for the structural integrity and functionality of nuclear facilities. Effective management of interfaces and risks by the Design Manager can prevent costly delays and ensure regulatory compliance, significantly contributing to the overall project's viability and safety.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in nuclear engineering, advanced structural steelwork design, or specific reactor technologies (e.g., PWRs).

• Project Leadership: Progress to managing larger engineering teams, multiple disciplines, or entire project phases within the nuclear sector.

• Senior Management: Advance into roles such as Head of Engineering, Technical Director, or Project Director for major infrastructure projects.

• Cross-Disciplinary Experience: Gain exposure to other engineering domains within the nuclear lifecycle through cross-functional assignments or projects.

• Professional Development: Assystem's commitment to reimbursing professional fees and providing a 24/7 support line suggests a focus on continuous learning and employee well-being, supporting career advancement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear path for career progression within a specialized and high-demand industry. The emphasis on self-delivery and complex environments suggests that success in this role could lead to opportunities in broader project management or leadership roles within Assystem's extensive portfolio of regulated projects.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The job description mentions a "Hybrid Working Opportunity," indicating a blend of office-based work and remote work. This suggests a modern workplace that values flexibility.

Office Location(s): The primary location is Bristol, England. Assystem operates globally, but this specific role is based in their UK operations, likely at a project office or a main regional hub in Bristol.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: As a Design Manager, you will be expected to work closely with your team, other engineering disciplines, and project stakeholders. This implies a collaborative office setup conducive to teamwork and discussion.

• Tools and Technology: Access to standard engineering design software (CAD, structural analysis tools), project management software, and communication platforms will be essential. The nature of nuclear projects means robust IT infrastructure and security protocols will be in place.

• Team Interaction: Frequent opportunities for interaction with your SSW team for technical reviews, problem-solving, and progress updates, as well as collaboration with cross-functional teams for interface management and project coordination.

Work Schedule:

• Standard working hours are approximately 40 hours per week.

• The provision of "Flexible working hours" allows for adaptability, which is beneficial for managing complex project schedules and coordinating with international teams or dealing with urgent project demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model in a regulated industry like nuclear engineering suggests that while flexibility is offered, there will be specific requirements for office presence, likely tied to critical meetings, team collaboration sessions, or site-specific work that cannot be done remotely.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Initial Screening: A review of your CV and qualifications by HR or a recruitment specialist to assess basic fit against essential requirements.

2. Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the hiring manager (likely a senior engineer or project manager) to delve into your technical expertise, experience in structural steelwork design, and understanding of operational delivery and risk management.

3. Technical Assessment/Case Study: You may be asked to prepare and present a case study on a past project demonstrating your approach to operational planning, risk mitigation, or stakeholder communication in a complex environment. This is where your portfolio examples would be invaluable.

4. Stakeholder/Team Interview: An opportunity to meet with potential peers or team members to assess cultural fit, collaboration style, and communication skills. You might be asked to articulate how you would approach managing interfaces or resolving design conflicts.

5. Final Interview: Potentially with a more senior leader within Assystem to discuss career aspirations, strategic fit, and confirm overall suitability for the role and company culture.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Impact: When presenting case studies, emphasize the results of your work.

Quantify improvements in efficiency, cost savings, schedule adherence, or risk reduction achieved through your management and design expertise.

• Structure Your Examples: Organize your portfolio around key responsibilities:

  • Design Excellence: Showcase your technical proficiency with examples of complex steelwork designs, calculations, and adherence to standards (Eurocodes).
  • Operational Delivery: Detail your experience in project planning, scheduling, and execution, highlighting successful project completions.
  • Risk & Interface Management: Illustrate how you've identified and mitigated risks, and managed complex interfaces between disciplines.
  • Stakeholder Communication: Prepare examples of presentations or reports that effectively communicated technical information and operational impacts to varied audiences.

• Tailor to Nuclear: If possible, highlight any experience or understanding relevant to highly regulated environments or nuclear projects, even if it's transferable skills.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss your approach to managing competing priorities, tight deadlines, and unexpected challenges within a project lifecycle.

• Practice articulating your decision-making process, especially in situations requiring independent judgment based on situational analysis.

• Prepare to discuss your understanding of CDM 2015 and its implications for design management in the UK.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the emphasis on "proven experience" and "demonstrable experience," the interview process will likely be thorough, testing both technical depth and practical application of management skills. Being ready to speak confidently and articulately about specific past achievements is crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Structural Analysis Software: Proficiency with industry-standard software for structural analysis and design (e.g., STAAD.Pro, Tekla Structural Designer, SAP2000, or similar).

• CAD Software: Experience with 2D and 3D CAD software for creating and reviewing design drawings (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit, Tekla Structures).

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with project management platforms for scheduling, task tracking, and resource allocation (e.g., Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Asana, Jira).

• Document Management Systems: Experience with systems for managing project documentation, revisions, and approvals (e.g., SharePoint, Aconex, BIM 360).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret data from structural analyses, project schedules, and risk registers.

• Reporting Tools: Proficiency in creating clear and concise reports for project stakeholders, summarizing technical findings, progress, risks, and commercial impacts.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design deliverables integrate into broader project management and procurement systems is beneficial.

• Familiarity with workflow automation tools or methodologies to improve efficiency in design processes or document management is a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific software isn't listed, the role's nature implies a need for proficiency in standard structural engineering design and analysis tools, alongside robust project management and document control systems. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with the tools most relevant to complex infrastructure projects.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence & Precision: A commitment to high-quality engineering design and execution, especially critical in the nuclear sector where precision is paramount.

• Safety First: An unwavering dedication to safety protocols, regulatory compliance, and risk mitigation in all aspects of work.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: A belief in the power of collective effort, fostering an environment where cross-functional teams work together effectively to achieve common goals.

• Accountability & Ownership: Taking responsibility for tasks, decisions, and outcomes, demonstrating a proactive and results-oriented approach.

• Continuous Improvement: A drive to constantly seek better ways of working, optimizing processes, and enhancing project delivery.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expect a collaborative approach that bridges the gap between design, project management, safety, and construction teams. Open communication and proactive engagement with all stakeholders are key.

• Constructive Feedback: An environment that encourages open dialogue and constructive feedback to drive process improvements and resolve issues efficiently.

• Knowledge Sharing: A culture that promotes sharing best practices, lessons learned, and technical insights across the team and with other disciplines to foster collective growth and project success.

📝 Enhancement Note: Assystem's focus on "highly regulated sectors" and "complex and strategic infrastructure projects" suggests a culture that prioritizes rigor, safety, and long-term reliability. The emphasis on bringing "unique contributions" and fostering "diversity" indicates an inclusive environment that values varied perspectives for innovation.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complexity of Nuclear Projects: Navigating the stringent safety regulations, security requirements, and technical complexities inherent in nuclear engineering projects.

• Interface Management: Coordinating effectively with numerous internal and external stakeholders across different disciplines, each with their own priorities and technical requirements.

• Risk Mitigation: Proactively identifying and managing potential risks that could impact project schedule, budget, quality, or safety in a high-stakes environment.

• Maintaining Delivery Pace: Balancing the need for meticulous design and regulatory compliance with the project's demands for timely delivery of critical steelwork components.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Technical Training: Access to advanced training in nuclear engineering, specific reactor technologies, or cutting-edge structural analysis techniques.

• Project Management Skills Enhancement: Opportunities to refine leadership, risk management, and stakeholder engagement skills on large-scale, high-profile projects.

• Industry Exposure: Gaining invaluable experience in a critical global industry, building a strong professional network and a highly sought-after skillset.

• Mentorship Programs: Potential for guidance from experienced senior engineers and project leaders within Assystem.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for senior roles in demanding, high-stakes engineering environments. Assystem's commitment to employee development suggests that these challenges are viewed as opportunities for professional growth and skill enhancement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Technical Approach: "Describe your process for designing structural steelwork to Eurocodes for a critical infrastructure project. How do you ensure compliance and structural integrity?"

  • Preparation: Be ready to walk through your typical design steps, highlighting key considerations for load calculations, material selection, connection design, and verification methods.

• Operational Management: "How would you approach scheduling and programming deliverables for the secondary steelwork team, and what methods do you use to identify and manage risks that could impact delivery?"

  • Preparation: Discuss your experience with project management tools, risk registers, contingency planning, and proactive problem-solving techniques.

• Stakeholder Engagement: "How do you communicate complex technical information and its operational impact to a diverse group of stakeholders, including those with non-technical backgrounds?"

  • Preparation: Prepare examples of effective presentations or reports, emphasizing clarity, conciseness, and tailoring your message to the audience's perspective. Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracts you to Assystem and this specific role within the nuclear sector?"

  • Preparation: Research Assystem's projects, values, and reputation in the nuclear industry. Connect your career goals and expertise to their mission.

• "How do you approach managing a team of engineers to ensure both high performance and a collaborative work environment?"

  • Preparation: Discuss your leadership style, methods for motivating teams, and experience in fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement. Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Focus on Impact & Results: Select 2-3 key projects that best showcase your capabilities in design management, operational delivery, and risk mitigation. Quantify achievements wherever possible (e.g., "reduced design iterations by 15%," "delivered project 2 weeks ahead of schedule").

• Structure Your Narrative: For each case study, clearly outline the challenge, your actions, and the positive outcomes. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) as a framework.

• Highlight Key Skills: Explicitly link your portfolio examples back to the requirements of the job description, such as structural steelwork design, CDM 2015 understanding, stakeholder communication, and operational planning.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely be rigorous, assessing both technical acumen and project leadership capabilities. Candidates should prepare specific, quantifiable examples from their experience to demonstrate their proficiency in all key areas mentioned in the job description.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided SmartRecruiters link.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your CV to highlight your experience in structural steelwork design, project management within complex environments, operational planning and delivery, and familiarity with Eurocodes and CDM 2015. Use keywords from the job description.

• Portfolio Preparation: Gather examples of your work that demonstrate your design capabilities, project management successes, risk mitigation strategies, and stakeholder communication skills. Be ready to discuss these in detail.

• Company & Role Research: Familiarize yourself with Assystem's work in the nuclear sector and understand the specific challenges and requirements of managing secondary steelwork in such a critical project.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare clear and concise answers to common interview questions related to technical design, project management, leadership, and problem-solving, using specific examples from your experience.

⚠️ 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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