Fabrication Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Fabrication Design Manager

Company: Galliford Try

Location: United Kingdom (Various/Flexible)

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Engineering & Design Operations

Date Posted: 2026-08-14

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

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage the fabrication design department, ensuring strategic alignment with the company's vision, values, and culture.

• Drive operational excellence by fostering strong relationships with fabrication management and project delivery teams.

• Uphold stringent health and safety standards, staying abreast of legislation and company policies.

• Oversee the structural design and analysis of fabrication projects, ensuring compliance with relevant codes and standards.

• Foster a high-performing team through effective recruitment, training, mentoring, and performance management.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a critical leadership function within Galliford Try's fabrication business, requiring a blend of technical expertise in structural engineering and fabrication, alongside strong people management and operational oversight. The "Various/Flexible" location suggests a hybrid or potentially remote-friendly arrangement for the right candidate, with an expectation of site visits.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the Operations Director to align fabrication operations with the GT vision, values, and culture, building strong relationships with the fabrication management team.

• Lead the fabrication design team, coordinating operational project delivery and ensuring seamless integration with project execution.

• Act as the primary authority for Health and Safety within the design department, ensuring compliance with legislation, company policies, and statutory requirements.

• Ensure design solutions align with client visions, prioritizing sustainability, cost-effectiveness, and carbon reduction opportunities.

• Manage commercial and financial procedures related to design contracts, including review and completion of documentation.

• Conduct structural design and analysis calculations using governing codes (e.g., Eurocodes, British Standards) and engineering principles, leveraging company standards and experience.

• Review structural plans, designs, layouts, and loading criteria, ensuring constructability and adherence to project specifications.

• Support the development of the GT Fabs business by evaluating new technologies, innovative work methods, and advanced software packages.

• Provide technical clarification and support to proposals, engineers, workshop staff, and site personnel.

• Develop and maintain rigorous processes aligned with BS EN 1090 & 3834 and the Business Management System (BMS) to achieve positive project outcomes.

• Liaise with central functions (Health & Safety, Environment, Commercial, Quality) to review and implement improvement plans based on KPI data.

• Produce reports and board papers as required to communicate design department performance and strategic initiatives.

• Provide design input across all project stages: outline, optioneering, and detailed design.

• Utilize Tekla and AutoCAD for layout development, drawing creation, and design generation, ensuring adherence to specifications and client expectations.

• Interpret structural plans from contractors/clients and review GT Fabs designs against client specifications and relevant standards.

• Apply 2D and 3D CAD skills for creating, conveying, and extracting project-related information.

• Conduct occasional site visits for field measurements and client meetings to ensure design accuracy and stakeholder alignment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on technical design leadership and operational management. The emphasis on BS EN 1090 & 3834 and Eurocodes/British Standards indicates a need for deep technical knowledge in structural fabrication. The inclusion of "constructability" and liaison with workshop/site personnel emphasizes practical application and cross-functional collaboration.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering (Civil or Structural Engineering strongly preferred). Experience:

• Proven experience in the fabrication and welding industry.

• Demonstrated success in managing and developing technical teams.

• Experience in civil and/or structural engineering.

• Experience in coordinating operational delivery and managing design teams.

• Experience with contract documentation review and commercial procedures. Required Skills:

• Structural Engineering Expertise: Deep understanding of structural design principles, analysis, and calculations.

• Fabrication Process Knowledge: In-depth knowledge of fabrication and welding processes, standards (BS EN 1090, BS EN 3834), and best practices.

• CAD Proficiency: Advanced skills in Tekla and AutoCAD for design, layout, and drawing creation (2D and 3D).

• Team Leadership & Management: Proven ability to lead, mentor, train, and manage a team of design professionals.

• Health & Safety Management: Comprehensive knowledge of health and safety legislation, company policies, and statutory requirements within an engineering context.

• Project Coordination: Ability to coordinate operational delivery, manage resources, and ensure timely project execution.

• Stakeholder Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for interacting with clients, sub-contractors, suppliers, and internal teams.

• Budget & Cost Management: Experience in analyzing cost and value, managing budgets, and optimizing resource utilization.

• Business Acumen: Understanding of commercial and financial procedures, contract documentation, and KPI analysis.

Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with Eurocodes and relevant British Standards for structural design.

• Experience with Business Management Systems (BMS) and continuous improvement initiatives.

• Knowledge of new technologies and software packages relevant to fabrication design.

• Experience in contributing to business development and strategic growth initiatives.

• Strong ethical standards, openness, and honesty.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize a strong technical foundation in structural engineering and fabrication, coupled with essential leadership and operational management skills. The explicit mention of Tekla and AutoCAD points to specific software proficiencies expected. Experience with BS EN 1090 & 3834 is a critical technical requirement.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Project Examples: Showcase a range of fabrication design projects, detailing scope, challenges, and successful outcomes. Highlight projects demonstrating expertise in structural steelwork.

• Technical Calculation Samples: Include examples of structural design and analysis calculations, referencing the codes and standards used (e.g., Eurocodes, British Standards).

• CAD Deliverables: Provide examples of detailed layout drawings, fabrication drawings, and 3D models created using Tekla and/or AutoCAD.

• Process Improvement Initiatives: Document instances where you identified and implemented process improvements within a design or fabrication context, focusing on efficiency, safety, or quality.

• Team Management Examples: Illustrate your approach to team leadership, including recruitment, training, mentoring, and performance management strategies.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design: Demonstrate understanding of designing and documenting efficient workflows for fabrication design processes, from initial concept to final output.

• Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs): Showcase experience in developing and implementing SOPs aligned with industry standards (e.g., BS EN 1090, BS EN 3834) and Business Management Systems (BMS).

• Quality Assurance Processes: Detail your approach to quality assurance in design, including review processes, compliance checks, and continuous improvement methodologies.

• Health & Safety Integration: Evidence of integrating health and safety considerations into design processes and documentation.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates are expected to provide tangible evidence of their technical and leadership capabilities through a portfolio. This should include examples of design work, technical calculations, and documentation of process improvements. The emphasis on BS EN 1090 & 3834, Tekla, and AutoCAD means these should be prominent in portfolio examples.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for a Fabrication Design Manager with 5-10 years of experience in the United Kingdom, a competitive salary range is estimated to be between £55,000 - £75,000 per annum. This range can vary based on specific location, candidate experience, and the precise scope of responsibilities within Galliford Try's structure. Benefits:

• Generous holiday entitlement, increasing with years of service.

• Opportunity to purchase further holidays.

• Wide range of corporate discounts.

• Cycle to Work schemes.

• Comprehensive pension plan.

• Regular Save as You Earn share purchase scheme.

• Private medical scheme options available for salaried employees.

• Employee assistance programme offering free 24/7 support.

• Paid yearly membership to one recognized professional association relevant to the role. Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours are typically 40 hours per week. Flexibility may be offered as part of Galliford Try's Agile Working programme, which will be discussed during the recruitment process.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on average UK salaries for similar engineering management roles in the construction and fabrication sectors, considering the mid-to-senior experience level. The benefits package is comprehensive and typical for a large construction and infrastructure company like Galliford Try.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction and Infrastructure. Galliford Try is a leading principal contractor in the UK, involved in building facilities and infrastructure vital for communities. The fabrication division (GT Fabs) is a key component of their operations, specializing in fabrication and welding.

Company Size: Large enterprise (Galliford Try is a significant publicly listed company). This implies structured processes, established hierarchies, and opportunities for career progression within a large organization.

Founded: Galliford Try has a long history, established in 1919, providing a foundation of stability and extensive industry experience.

Team Structure:

• Fabrication Design Team: This role directly manages the fabrication design department, which likely comprises structural engineers, design engineers, and CAD technicians.

• Reporting Structure: The role reports to the Operations Director, indicating a direct link to the broader operational leadership of the fabrication business.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Close collaboration is expected with the Fabrication management team, Operations Director, Project Delivery teams (in-house and sub-contractors), Clients, Suppliers, and central GT functions (Health & Safety, Environment, Commercial, Quality).

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Emphasis on KPI information and performance analysis to drive improvement plans.

• Process Optimization: Development and maintenance of rigorous processes aligned with industry standards (BS EN 1090 & 3834) and the company's Business Management System (BMS).

• Continuous Improvement: Focus on reviewing new technologies, ways of working, and software packages to enhance business operations.

• Client-Centric Approach: Ensuring alignment with key client visions and delivering sustainable solutions.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Galliford Try emphasizes its purpose of improving people's lives through construction, underpinned by strong values of delivering excellence, passion, integrity, and collaboration. This suggests a company culture that values professionalism, ethical conduct, and a commitment to quality and sustainability.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior management role within the operational and technical functions of the fabrication business. It requires significant experience in both technical design and team leadership, positioning the individual as a key operational leader.

Reporting Structure: Reports to the Operations Director, placing this role within the senior operational leadership team of the fabrication division. This provides visibility to senior management and direct influence on departmental strategy.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct impact on the efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness of fabrication projects. Successful management of the design team and processes directly influences project delivery timelines, client satisfaction, and profitability. The role also contributes to the strategic growth of the GT Fabs business by evaluating new technologies and methodologies.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to move into more senior operational roles within the fabrication division or broader Galliford Try business, such as Head of Fabrication Design, Operations Director, or Business Unit Manager.

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas of structural engineering, fabrication technology, or project management through ongoing professional development and exposure to complex projects.

• Cross-Functional Development: Opportunity to gain broader experience by collaborating closely with commercial, quality, H&S, and project management functions.

• Mentorship & Training: As a manager, the role provides opportunities to mentor junior staff, contributing to their development and potentially identifying future leaders within the company.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career progression within a large, established construction firm. The combination of technical and managerial responsibilities provides a well-rounded development opportunity for individuals aspiring to senior operational leadership in the construction and fabrication sectors.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid. The role is described as "Various/Flexible" with an expectation of occasional site visits. This suggests a blend of remote work, office-based work (potentially at a fabrication facility or central office), and on-site project locations.

Office Location(s): United Kingdom. Specific office locations are not detailed, but the "Various/Flexible" designation implies the candidate may be based near one of Galliford Try's operational bases or fabrication facilities across the UK.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Expect to work closely with a team of design professionals, as well as with project managers, operations personnel, and potentially clients and sub-contractors.

• Tools & Technology: Access to essential design software (Tekla, AutoCAD), Microsoft Suite, and potentially other project management and collaboration tools.

• Dynamic Setting: The role involves working within a busy environment, often under pressure, requiring adaptability and resilience. Occasional site visits will expose the candidate to active construction and fabrication sites.

Work Schedule: Standard full-time hours (approx. 40 hours per week), with potential for flexibility as part of the Agile Working programme. This allows for adaptation to project demands while maintaining a work-life balance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role indicates a modern work approach, balancing the need for in-person collaboration and site presence with the flexibility of remote work. Candidates should be comfortable with travel and varying work environments.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of CVs and potentially a brief introductory call with HR or a Resourcing Partner to assess basic qualifications and cultural fit.

• Technical & Management Interview: A more in-depth interview focusing on technical expertise in structural engineering, fabrication, CAD skills, and experience in team leadership, operational management, and health & safety. This may involve case study discussions or scenario-based questions.

• Portfolio Presentation: Candidates will likely be asked to present their portfolio, showcasing key projects, design methodologies, and leadership achievements. This is a crucial step to demonstrate practical application of skills.

• Stakeholder/Director Interview: A final interview with senior leadership (e.g., Operations Director, Senior Management) to assess strategic thinking, cultural alignment, and overall suitability for the role and company.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best represent your experience in fabrication design, structural engineering, team management, and process improvement. Highlight your contributions and the impact of your work.

• Showcase Technical Rigor: Clearly present your design calculations, adherence to standards (BS EN 1090, BS EN 3834, Eurocodes), and proficiency in Tekla and AutoCAD.

• Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the value you've added, such as cost savings, efficiency gains, safety improvements, or successful project deliveries.

• Highlight Leadership: Include examples of how you've managed teams, mentored individuals, and fostered a positive and productive work environment.

• Process Focus: Detail your experience in developing and implementing design processes, ensuring compliance and continuous improvement.

Challenge Preparation:

• Technical Scenarios: Be prepared for questions related to structural analysis, design challenges, constructability issues, and problem-solving within fabrication contexts.

• Management Scenarios: Anticipate questions about team motivation, conflict resolution, performance management, and stakeholder engagement.

• Process Improvement Case Study: Practice articulating a past process improvement initiative, detailing the problem, your solution, implementation, and results.

• Company & Industry Knowledge: Research Galliford Try's recent projects, values, and position within the construction/fabrication industry. Understand current trends in fabrication design and construction.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process emphasizes a thorough evaluation of both technical proficiency and leadership capabilities. A well-prepared portfolio that clearly demonstrates relevant experience and achievements will be critical for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Tekla Structures: Essential for 3D modeling, detailing, and fabrication drawings of steel structures. Expect to demonstrate advanced proficiency.

• AutoCAD: Crucial for 2D drafting, layout creation, and general design work.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Standard requirement for reporting, documentation, communication, and data analysis (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Excel (Advanced): For data analysis, cost tracking, budget management, and generating reports.

• BI Tools (Potential): While not explicitly mentioned, familiarity with business intelligence or reporting tools could be beneficial for KPI analysis and board paper preparation.

CRM & Automation:

• Business Management System (BMS): Experience with developing and maintaining processes within a BMS is required, aligned with standards like BS EN 1090 & 3834.

• Project Management Software (Potential): Familiarity with project management tools used by Galliford Try for tracking project progress and resource allocation may be advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Tekla and AutoCAD is a core technical requirement for this role. The ability to leverage Excel for data analysis and reporting is also critical. Familiarity with broader project management and business systems will enhance a candidate's profile.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence: A commitment to delivering high-quality design and fabrication solutions that meet client expectations and industry standards.

• Integrity: Conducting business with honesty, transparency, and ethical rigor in all interactions and decision-making.

• Collaboration: Fostering a team-oriented environment where individuals and departments work together effectively to achieve common goals.

• Passion: A genuine interest and enthusiasm for the construction and fabrication industry and the impact of the work.

• Safety: A paramount focus on health and safety, ensuring that all processes and designs prioritize the well-being of employees and stakeholders.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The role requires seamless collaboration with various departments, including Operations, Project Management, Commercial, Quality, and Health & Safety, to ensure cohesive project delivery.

• Open Communication: Encouraging open dialogue, feedback, and knowledge sharing within the design team and across departments.

• Proactive Engagement: Actively engaging with clients, sub-contractors, and suppliers to build strong, productive relationships and ensure alignment.

• Team Development Focus: A manager's role in mentoring, supporting, and developing team members to enhance overall team performance and individual growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: Galliford Try's stated values of Excellence, Passion, Integrity, and Collaboration are central to its culture. Successful candidates will embody these values, demonstrating a professional, ethical, and team-oriented approach to their work.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Technical Depth and Management: Effectively managing a team while maintaining a deep understanding of technical design requirements and staying current with industry standards and technologies.

• Cross-functional Stakeholder Management: Navigating the diverse needs and expectations of various internal departments, clients, sub-contractors, and suppliers.

• Ensuring Compliance: Maintaining rigorous adherence to complex engineering standards (BS EN 1090, BS EN 3834, Eurocodes) and health & safety regulations in a demanding environment.

• Driving Innovation: Encouraging adoption of new technologies and efficient work practices within a potentially traditional industry, while managing inherent resistance to change.

• Resource Optimization: Effectively managing design resources, budgets, and supply chains to meet project deadlines and cost targets, especially during periods of fluctuating demand.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Opportunities to deepen knowledge in specific areas of structural engineering, fabrication techniques, or specialized design software.

• Leadership Development Programs: Galliford Try's commitment to leadership development frameworks offers structured training for career advancement.

• Industry Conferences & Certifications: Support for attending relevant industry events and obtaining professional certifications to stay at the forefront of the field.

• Mentorship: The role itself offers mentorship opportunities, and candidates can benefit from mentorship from senior leaders within Galliford Try.

• Exposure to Major Projects: Working on large-scale infrastructure and construction projects provides invaluable experience and broadens professional horizons.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities to tackle complex engineering and management challenges, fostering significant professional growth. The emphasis on continuous learning and development aligns with Galliford Try's commitment to employee advancement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you successfully led a team through a challenging design project. What were the key challenges, your approach, and the outcome?" (Focus on leadership, problem-solving, and team motivation.)

• "How do you ensure compliance with stringent engineering standards like BS EN 1090 and BS EN 3834 in a busy design environment? Provide examples of processes you've implemented." (Focus on process, quality control, and technical knowledge.)

• "Walk me through your process for reviewing and approving structural designs, ensuring constructability and adherence to client specifications." (Focus on technical review, decision-making, and communication.)

• "How do you balance cost, quality, and timeline pressures when managing a fabrication design department?" (Focus on prioritization, resource management, and commercial awareness.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Galliford Try and our fabrication business specifically?" (Research company values, projects, and recent news.)

• "How do you foster a culture of safety and continuous improvement within a technical team?" (Relate to company values and your management style.)

• "Describe your experience working with diverse stakeholders (clients, sub-contractors, internal teams). How do you manage differing priorities?" (Focus on communication, negotiation, and relationship building.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly articulate the brief, your role, the challenges, the solutions you implemented, and the quantifiable results.

• Highlight Technical Proficiency: Use visuals (drawings, models) to showcase your CAD skills and explain complex structural elements. Clearly state the standards and codes you adhered to.

• Demonstrate Leadership: Explain how you managed your team, delegated tasks, and supported individual development within the context of the projects presented.

• Focus on Process: Detail the design processes you followed and any improvements you introduced.

• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize aspects of your experience most relevant to Galliford Try's needs and the Fabrication Design Manager position.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should be prepared to articulate their technical expertise, leadership style, and understanding of operational processes. A strong emphasis will be placed on how candidates have applied their skills to deliver successful projects and manage teams effectively.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Fabrication Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Galliford Try careers portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Curate your professional portfolio to prominently feature projects demonstrating your expertise in fabrication design, structural engineering, team leadership, and process optimization. Ensure examples of Tekla and AutoCAD work, along with adherence to BS EN 1090/3834, are readily accessible.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight keywords and responsibilities aligned with the job description, such as "Fabrication Design Manager," "Structural Engineering," "Tekla," "AutoCAD," "Team Management," "BS EN 1090," and "Health & Safety." Quantify achievements wherever possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience through STAR method responses for behavioral questions and prepare detailed case studies for your portfolio presentation. Research Galliford Try's values and recent projects to demonstrate genuine interest.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Galliford Try's mission, values, and recent significant projects, particularly within their fabrication or construction divisions. Understand their commitment to safety and sustainability.

⚠️ 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.