Modular Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Modular Design Manager

Company: CEL - Critical Power

Location: Dublin, County Dublin, Ireland

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Engineering Management / Operations Management

Date Posted: April 07, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Manage the day-to-day operations of the Modular Design Team, ensuring efficient workflow and project execution within the engineering department.

• Provide critical technical support to the sales team, enabling accurate tendering and proposal development for modular systems.

• Uphold rigorous compliance with all relevant industry standards, including building regulations, Eurocodes, and IEC standards, for the modular building business unit.

• Act as the primary engineering representative in all modular project-related meetings, ensuring alignment and effective communication.

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives within technical designs and assist in the resolution of Non-Conformance Reports (NCRs) to enhance product quality and processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role bridges technical engineering expertise with operational management, focusing on the specific demands of modular construction within the critical power and data center industry. The emphasis on sales support and standards compliance highlights a Go-To-Market (GTM) operations component, requiring a blend of technical acumen and business process understanding.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Oversee and direct the daily activities and performance of the Modular Design Team, fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement.

• Collaborate closely with the sales department to provide expert technical input for tender documents, system specifications, and client proposals related to modular systems.

• Ensure all modular designs and projects strictly adhere to applicable standards, including but not limited to, IEC standards, Eurocodes, and relevant national building regulations.

• Represent the engineering department in all project-specific meetings for modular construction, ensuring technical integrity and alignment with project goals.

• Participate actively in weekly engineering department meetings, providing comprehensive updates on ongoing modular projects, challenges, and progress.

• Generate and submit weekly progress reports detailing project status, key milestones, and any critical issues within the Modular Design business unit.

• Lead and facilitate the implementation of continuous improvements to technical designs, processes, and methodologies to enhance efficiency and product quality.

• Actively engage in the NCR process, assisting in closing out existing reports and proactively identifying opportunities for design and process enhancements to prevent future issues.

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date technical documentation, ensuring all project-related information is stored in approved company locations according to established protocols.

• Undertake additional responsibilities as assigned by senior management, demonstrating flexibility and a commitment to broader organizational objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a need for strong project management and team leadership capabilities, alongside deep technical knowledge in modular construction and electrical systems. The direct involvement in sales support and NCR resolution points to a GTM and Quality Operations focus.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

Required Skills:

• Profound understanding of IEC standards applicable to modular buildings and electrical systems.

• In-depth knowledge of Eurocodes as they relate to the structural integrity and design of modular buildings.

• Strong command of the technical standard EN1090-2 for the execution of steel structures.

• Familiarity with integrated cooling systems and their application in compact substations and modular builds.

• Proven ability to interpret technical specifications and tender documents with a high degree of accuracy.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) for reporting, documentation, and presentations.

• Exceptional attention to detail and a structured, methodical approach to engineering design and problem-solving.

• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple complex projects concurrently and consistently meet demanding deadlines.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with technical and non-technical stakeholders.

• Strong self-motivation and the capacity to work independently, taking ownership of tasks and driving them to completion.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with CAD software for modular design and layout.

• Familiarity with project management software (e.g., MS Project, Asana, Jira).

• Knowledge of data center power distribution systems.

• Experience in a manufacturing or production environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills emphasize a blend of technical engineering standards knowledge, project execution capabilities, and essential soft skills for team and stakeholder management. The preference for data center or electrical power industry experience is a key differentiator for operations candidates.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 2-3 detailed case studies demonstrating successful management of modular design projects from conception to completion.

• Include examples of technical documentation, such as design schematics, Bill of Materials (BOMs), and compliance reports, highlighting adherence to IEC and Eurocodes.

• Present evidence of process improvement initiatives, detailing specific changes implemented in design workflows, collaboration methods, or documentation procedures, and their resulting impact.

• Demonstrate experience in technical support for sales or tendering processes, with examples of proposals or technical clarifications provided.

Process Documentation:

• Provide examples of standard operating procedures (SOPs) or workflow diagrams for modular design processes, including design review, approval, and handover stages.

• Include documentation demonstrating experience in managing project documentation repositories and ensuring version control and accessibility.

• Showcase how you have contributed to or led the implementation of continuous improvement methodologies within engineering design processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a management role, the portfolio should reflect not just individual technical contributions but also leadership in process management, team oversight, and continuous improvement within the modular design context. Emphasis on standards compliance documentation is critical.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Structured career development pathways and personalized growth plans.

• Access to professional training and development programs to enhance technical and leadership skills.

• Opportunities for career advancement and leadership roles within a growing global organization.

• Competitive health and wellness benefits package (details to be confirmed by employer).

• Pension scheme contributions (details to be confirmed by employer).

• Paid time off, including annual leave and public holidays.

Working Hours:

• Standard working hours are Monday to Friday, typically 40 hours per week, reflecting a full-time, on-site commitment. Flexibility may be available based on project demands, subject to management approval.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on aggregated data for similar roles in Dublin. Benefits listed are derived from the "Why Join CEL Critical Power?" section and are typical for full-time engineering management positions.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Electrical Switchgear Manufacturing, Critical Power Solutions, Data Centre Infrastructure. CEL - Critical Power operates within a highly specialized and demanding sector, requiring precision, reliability, and adherence to stringent international standards. The company's focus on the global Data Centre industry positions it at the forefront of technological infrastructure development.

Company Size: CEL - Critical Power is a 40-year-old Irish-based manufacturer, distributor, and exporter that is now focused on global expansion, including establishing a US manufacturing plant. This suggests a company that has a solid foundation but is in a growth phase, offering opportunities for individuals to contribute to scaling operations. The team structure likely balances experienced long-term employees with new hires bringing fresh perspectives.

Founded: Founded 40 years ago, CEL has a long-standing reputation for delivering high-quality, bespoke power distribution solutions and products that are built to last. This history signifies stability, deep industry knowledge, and a commitment to excellence.

Team Structure:

• The Modular Design Team operates within the broader CEL Engineering Department, reporting to the Director of Engineering.

• This role requires close collaboration with the Sales Team for tendering, and likely involves interaction with Project Management, Manufacturing, Quality Assurance, and potentially Procurement departments.

Methodology:

• Data Analysis and Insights: Emphasizes data-driven decision-making, particularly in relation to design improvements, NCR resolution, and performance reporting.

• Workflow Planning and Optimization: Focuses on managing the day-to-day operations of the design team, implementing continuous improvements to technical designs, and streamlining processes.

• Automation and Efficiency Practices: While not explicitly stated, the drive for continuous improvement implies an openness to leveraging tools and methods that enhance efficiency in design and project management.

Company Website: https://www.cel-criticalpower.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's 40-year history and current global expansion trajectory indicate a stable yet ambitious environment. The emphasis on quality, collaboration, and continuous improvement aligns with typical GTM and operations-focused company values.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a management-level position within the engineering and operations function. It requires a blend of deep technical expertise in modular design and electrical systems, combined with proven leadership and operational management skills. The scope includes managing a team, supporting sales operations, and driving process improvements, indicating a significant level of responsibility and influence over critical GTM processes.

Reporting Structure: The Modular Design Manager reports directly to the Director of Engineering. This places the role within a senior leadership tier of the engineering department, with direct impact on strategic technical decisions and operational efficiency. The role also has significant interaction with the sales team, highlighting a cross-functional reporting dynamic necessary for effective GTM operations.

Operations Impact: The Modular Design Manager directly impacts revenue and business decisions by:

• Ensuring accurate and competitive tendering through technical support to sales.

• Reducing project delays and cost overruns by maintaining design integrity and compliance.

• Enhancing product quality and customer satisfaction through continuous design improvements and effective NCR resolution, which can lead to repeat business and stronger brand reputation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Opportunities to deepen expertise in data center infrastructure, critical power systems, and advanced modular construction techniques.

• Leadership Development: Potential to grow into senior engineering management roles, such as Head of Engineering or Director of Operations, managing larger teams and broader operational scopes.

• Strategic Contribution: Involvement in strategic decision-making regarding product development, market entry, and operational scaling, particularly with the US expansion.

• Industry Exposure: Working with international standards and collaborating with global teams provides broad industry experience.

• Mentorship: Opportunity to mentor junior engineers and contribute to building the company's internal talent pipeline.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear path for progression within engineering management and operations, with opportunities for both technical specialization and broader leadership responsibilities, especially given the company's expansion phase.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based on-site in Dublin, County Dublin, Ireland, within CEL - Critical Power's operational facilities. This environment is likely a combination of office space for design and management tasks and proximity to manufacturing and testing areas, facilitating close collaboration with production and engineering teams.

Office Location(s): Dublin, County Dublin, Ireland. This location offers access to a skilled engineering workforce and a robust business infrastructure within the European Union.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The workspace is designed to foster collaboration among the Modular Design Team, with direct reporting lines to the Director of Engineering and close interaction with the sales team. This setup encourages cross-functional communication essential for GTM success.

• Operations Tools and Technology: Expect access to standard engineering design software, Microsoft Office tools, and potentially specialized CAD and project management systems. The company's commitment to quality and improvement suggests an investment in necessary operational technologies.

• Operations Team Interaction: Daily interaction with team members, project managers, and sales representatives will be a core part of the role, enabling real-time problem-solving and efficient workflow management.

Work Schedule: The primary work schedule is Monday to Friday, 40 hours per week. While typically on-site, there may be occasional requirements for travel to project sites, client meetings, or other company facilities, particularly as the company expands internationally. Flexibility may be required during critical project phases, subject to management approval.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature of the role emphasizes direct team management and hands-on involvement, which is typical for operations and engineering management positions focused on manufacturing and product development.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and cover letter to assess alignment with the core requirements, focusing on experience in modular construction, engineering qualifications, and leadership potential.

• Technical Interview (Round 1): Assessment of your technical knowledge, particularly regarding IEC standards, Eurocodes, EN1090-2, and cooling systems. Expect questions on your approach to design challenges and standards compliance.

• Managerial/Team Fit Interview (Round 2): Discussion with the Director of Engineering and potentially other senior team members. Focus on your management style, experience leading teams, conflict resolution, and how you foster continuous improvement and collaboration.

• Portfolio Review & Presentation: A dedicated session where you will present selected case studies from your portfolio. This is a critical stage to demonstrate your project management skills, technical problem-solving abilities, and impact on previous operations. Be prepared to walk through your process and showcase measurable results.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a higher-level executive, focusing on strategic thinking, alignment with company culture, and long-term career aspirations within CEL - Critical Power.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 2-3 impactful projects that best showcase your management experience, technical depth in modular design, and successful application of relevant standards.

• Focus on Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the challenge, your role and approach, the solutions implemented, and most importantly, the quantifiable results (e.g., efficiency gains, cost savings, compliance adherence, project completion time).

• Demonstrate Process: Show evidence of your process management, team leadership, and problem-solving skills. Include examples of documentation, workflow improvements, and how you managed team performance.

• Standards Mastery: Explicitly highlight how you applied IEC standards, Eurocodes, and EN1090-2. Have specific examples ready to discuss.

• Concise Presentation: Prepare a clear, concise presentation (e.g., 15-20 minutes) that flows logically. Be ready for in-depth Q&A.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Be prepared for hypothetical scenarios related to managing design teams, resolving technical conflicts, improving processes, or handling challenging client requirements.

• Standards Application: Practice explaining complex standards and their practical implications in modular design.

• Leadership Scenarios: Think about times you've motivated a team, managed underperforming members, or driven change.

• Tendering Support: Consider how you would approach providing technical support for a complex tender, ensuring accuracy and competitiveness.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio review and presentation highlights the operational and project management aspects of the role. Candidates should prepare to demonstrate not just technical knowledge but also their ability to manage processes and deliver results.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency in relevant CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software for 2D and 3D design of modular structures and electrical layouts. Specific software like AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or similar is likely required.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Advanced proficiency in Excel (for data analysis, reporting, BOM management), Word (for documentation, technical specifications), and PowerPoint (for presentations, reports).

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with tools such as Microsoft Project, Asana, Jira, or similar for task management, scheduling, and team coordination.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Internal Reporting Tools: Experience in generating reports from design software and project management tools; ability to analyze data for performance metrics and continuous improvement insights.

• Data Analysis Techniques: Ability to analyze design data, NCR trends, and project progress metrics to identify areas for improvement.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM (Customer Relationship Management) Systems: Familiarity with how CRM systems are used to track sales opportunities and client requirements, which is crucial for providing effective sales support.

• Documentation Management Systems: Experience with systems for storing, organizing, and version-controlling technical documents and project files.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack emphasizes core engineering design tools and standard office productivity software. The role requires someone who can effectively use these tools for design, project management, reporting, and team coordination, bridging technical output with operational oversight.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Quality: A fundamental value, reflected in the company's 40-year reputation and focus on building the best quality switchgear. This translates to meticulous attention to detail in design and adherence to standards.

• Collaboration: Essential for success in a cross-functional environment. The role requires working closely with sales, engineering, manufacturing, and potentially global teams.

• Continuous Improvement: A stated focus, indicating a culture that encourages innovation, process optimization, and learning from feedback (e.g., NCRs).

• Commercial Curiosity: An openness to understanding the business context, market demands, and how engineering decisions impact commercial outcomes, particularly in supporting sales tendering.

• Customer Focus: Ensuring that designs and support systems exceed customer expectations, driving satisfaction and repeat business.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role necessitates strong collaboration with sales for tendering, engineering for design integrity, and manufacturing for production feasibility. Effective communication and understanding of each department's needs are paramount.

• Process Review Culture: The emphasis on continuous improvement and NCR resolution suggests a culture where processes are regularly reviewed, and feedback is used constructively to enhance workflows and product quality.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouragement of sharing best practices, technical insights, and lessons learned within the engineering team and across departments to foster collective growth and efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture values quality, continuous improvement, and collaboration, aligning well with the needs of an operations-focused management role that bridges technical execution with commercial objectives.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Technical Depth with Management: Effectively leading a team while maintaining a strong understanding of complex technical standards and design requirements for modular critical power systems.

• Global Standards Harmonization: Supporting international expansion requires navigating different regional standards and customer specifications, potentially beyond the core IEC and Eurocodes.

• Rapid Technological Evolution: The data center industry is fast-paced; staying abreast of new cooling technologies, power distribution methods, and modular construction innovations is crucial.

• Cross-Functional Alignment: Ensuring seamless integration between engineering design, sales requirements, and manufacturing capabilities, especially during global scaling.

• Managing Project Timelines: Balancing multiple project demands, sales support needs, and internal improvement initiatives while ensuring timely delivery.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in critical power solutions, data center design, and advanced modular construction techniques through internal projects and external training.

• Leadership and Management Skills: Develop strategic leadership capabilities through managing a growing team, participating in leadership development programs, and contributing to high-level operational planning.

• International Project Exposure: Gain experience working with diverse international client requirements, documentation standards, and cross-cultural teams as CEL expands globally.

• Process Optimization Expertise: Lead and implement significant process improvements within the engineering and design workflows, contributing to the company's operational efficiency and scalability.

• Industry Conferences and Certifications: Opportunities to attend relevant industry events and pursue certifications that enhance professional standing and knowledge.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for a growth-stage company in a technical field, offering significant opportunities for professional development and impact.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you successfully managed a team to meet a critical engineering deadline. What was your approach and what were the results?" (Focus on leadership, project management, and team motivation).

• "How do you ensure compliance with complex technical standards like IEC or Eurocodes in a design process? Walk me through your typical process." (Demonstrate your understanding of standards and your systematic approach).

• "Imagine a scenario where the sales team requires urgent technical input for a tender that conflicts with current design best practices. How would you handle this situation?" (Assess your ability to balance sales needs with technical integrity and find collaborative solutions).

• "Tell me about a significant process improvement you implemented within an engineering or design team. What was the problem, your solution, and the measurable impact?" (Showcase your continuous improvement mindset and ability to drive efficiency).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about CEL - Critical Power's focus on the data center industry and its global expansion?" (Show your research and alignment with company goals).

• "How do you foster a culture of quality and continuous improvement within your team?" (Align your management style with company values).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each case study, follow a clear STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).

• Quantify Your Impact: Use data and metrics whenever possible to demonstrate the success of your projects (e.g., % reduction in NCRs, % improvement in design efficiency, project completion time savings).

• Highlight Leadership: Emphasize your role in managing the team, delegating tasks, and driving outcomes, not just individual technical contributions.

• Showcase Standards Application: Be ready to discuss specific instances where your understanding and application of IEC, Eurocodes, or EN1090-2 were critical.

• Engage and Discuss: Treat the presentation as a collaborative discussion. Be open to questions and demonstrate your ability to articulate complex technical and operational concepts clearly.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating not only technical expertise but also strong leadership, process management, and problem-solving skills relevant to operations and GTM functions within a growing organization.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on Workable.

• Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume to highlight your experience in modular construction, electrical/mechanical engineering, team management, technical standards (IEC, Eurocodes), and any experience supporting sales or tendering processes. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Gather 2-3 strong case studies showcasing your project management, technical leadership, and process improvement achievements in modular design. Ensure you can clearly articulate the challenges, your actions, and the measurable results.

• Research CEL - Critical Power: Familiarize yourself with the company's history, focus on the data center industry, recent news (especially regarding US expansion), and their commitment to quality and innovation. Understand their products and market position.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare answers to common interview questions, focusing on leadership, technical problem-solving, standards compliance, and cross-functional collaboration, using examples from your experience and portfolio.

⚠️ 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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