Senior Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Design Manager
Company: Costain Group
Location: Newcastle Upon Tyne, England, United Kingdom
Job Type: Full time
Category: Design & Engineering Management (Infrastructure/Water Sector)
Date Posted: January 28, 2026
Experience Level: 5-10 Years
Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive the quality design delivery for critical water sector infrastructure projects within the Northumbrian Water AMP8 Framework.
• Lead and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including design partners and site personnel, to achieve production thinking and carbon-efficient design solutions.
• Oversee the end-to-end design lifecycle, from initial concept through to detailed execution, ensuring adherence to project objectives and client requirements.
• Uphold stringent quality assurance standards and implement robust design control measures throughout the project lifecycle.
• Foster a collaborative and innovative design environment that aligns with Costain's vision of being the UK's leading smart infrastructure solutions provider.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is specifically for a Senior Design Manager within the infrastructure sector, with a strong focus on the water industry and its associated regulatory and investment cycles (AMP 8). The hybrid nature implies a need for strong self-management and communication skills to effectively bridge office, site, and remote work.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Manage and oversee the design delivery for water projects under the Northumbrian Water AMP8 Framework, ensuring timely and high-quality outcomes.
• Lead design team efforts, fostering a collaborative environment to promote innovative and carbon-efficient design solutions.
• Implement and enforce robust design management processes, including design procurement, control, and quality assurance.
• Ensure all designs comply with relevant industry standards, including BIM to ISO 19650 and the NEC4 suite of contracts.
• Liaise effectively with internal stakeholders, design partners, NWL representatives, and site teams to ensure seamless project execution and alignment.
• Drive the adoption of production thinking methodologies to optimize design processes and project efficiency.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of carbon reduction strategies within the design process.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior members of the design team.
• Monitor and report on design progress, risks, and issues to the Principal Design Manager and other relevant stakeholders.
• Ensure effective integration of Mechanical, Electrical, ICA, and Civils disciplines within the overall project design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical oversight, project management, and leadership within a complex, regulated sector. The emphasis on BIM, ISO 19650, and NEC4 contracts indicates a need for a candidate with a strong grasp of modern infrastructure project delivery methodologies.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Civil), Construction Management, or a related field.
• Professional qualifications or chartered status in a relevant engineering discipline are highly advantageous.

Experience:

• Minimum of 5-10 years of progressive experience in design management, with a significant portion spent within the water sector.
• Proven track record in delivering capital projects, preferably within a framework agreement structure.
• Experience in maintenance, design, or capital delivery roles within Mechanical, Electrical ICA, or Civils disciplines.

Required Skills:

• Design Delivery & Management: Comprehensive understanding of the design lifecycle, from concept to construction, including design management, control, and procurement strategies.
• Water Sector Expertise: In-depth knowledge of water infrastructure projects, including maintenance, design, and capital delivery.
• Technical Disciplines: Proficiency across Mechanical, Electrical ICA, and Civils disciplines, with the ability to integrate them effectively.
• Quality Assurance & BIM: Strong experience in quality assurance processes and BIM implementation, specifically to ISO 19650 standards.
• Contractual Knowledge: Working knowledge of the NEC4 suite of contracts and their application in design and construction.
• Collaborative Leadership: Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with multiple teams, stakeholders, and design partners.
• Carbon Efficiency: Understanding and application of carbon-efficient design principles and production thinking.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with Northumbrian Water or similar water utility frameworks.
• Advanced knowledge of project management methodologies.
• Familiarity with digital tools for design collaboration and project tracking.
• Experience in risk management and mitigation strategies for design processes.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience level (5-10 years) suggests a need for a candidate who can operate with a high degree of autonomy and strategic input, moving beyond task execution to proactive management and problem-solving. The combination of technical, contractual, and collaborative skills is critical.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Lifecycle Management: Showcase projects where you managed the full design lifecycle, from inception to handover, demonstrating control and quality.
• Process Optimization Case Studies: Present examples of how you improved design processes, enhanced efficiency, or reduced carbon footprint through innovative thinking or methodology.
• BIM & ISO 19650 Implementation: Include examples or descriptions of your involvement in BIM projects adhering to ISO 19650 standards, highlighting your role in data management and collaboration.
• Contractual Application: Provide examples of how you've applied NEC4 or similar contract principles within design management to ensure successful project delivery and risk mitigation.
• Cross-Disciplinary Integration: Demonstrate instances where you successfully integrated Mechanical, Electrical ICA, and Civils designs, ensuring a cohesive and functional outcome.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Examples of documented design workflows and how they were optimized for efficiency, carbon reduction, or quality improvement.
• Design Review & Assurance: Documentation illustrating your approach to design reviews, quality checks, and assurance processes.
• Stakeholder Communication Protocols: Evidence of clear and effective communication plans and documentation for managing design progress with various stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates are expected to provide tangible evidence of their design management capabilities, particularly concerning process efficiency, quality control, and adherence to modern standards like BIM and NEC4. A portfolio demonstrating practical application and measurable results will be highly valued.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for a Senior Design Manager with 5-10 years of experience in the UK infrastructure and water sector, particularly in the North East of England, the estimated salary range for this role is approximately £60,000 - £80,000 per annum. This estimate considers the hybrid working model, the specific sector (water industry), and the complexity of managing design delivery for a framework agreement.

Benefits:

• Hybrid Working Model: Flexible approach with a blend of office, site, and home-based work, promoting work-life balance.
• Pension Scheme: Contributory pension scheme to support long-term financial planning.
• Health & Wellbeing: Access to private medical insurance and employee assistance programs.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for continuous learning, training, and professional accreditation support (e.g., Chartership).
• Life Assurance: Company-provided life assurance coverage.
• Annual Leave: Generous annual leave entitlement, with potential for additional days based on service.
• Performance Bonus: Potential for performance-related bonuses linked to individual and company achievements.
• Cycle to Work Scheme: Option to participate in the cycle to work scheme.

Working Hours: Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week. The hybrid model allows for flexibility in scheduling, but core hours will likely be established to facilitate team collaboration and client engagement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on typical compensation for senior engineering and design management roles in the UK, considering the specified experience level and industry. Specific benefits packages can vary, and candidates should confirm details during the interview process.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Costain Group operates within the UK's energy, water, transportation, and defence markets, focusing on integrated, leading-edge, smart infrastructure solutions. The company is deeply involved in supporting regulatory investment cycles like AMP 8 in the water sector. Company Size: Costain Group is a large, established company, employing a significant workforce across the UK. This scale offers opportunities for diverse project involvement and career progression. Founded: Costain has a long history, founded in 1915, indicating a stable and experienced organization with a deep understanding of the infrastructure landscape.

Team Structure:

• The Senior Design Manager will report to the Principal Design Manager, indicating a clear reporting line within a dedicated design function.
• The role requires close collaboration with project delivery teams, design partners, and client representatives (Northumbrian Water).
• The operations team likely comprises various engineering disciplines, project managers, and commercial specialists, fostering a matrixed project environment.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decisions: Costain emphasizes using data to inform strategic consultancy and asset optimization. Expect a focus on performance metrics and analytics in design.
• Smart Infrastructure Solutions: The company's vision centers on digitally optimized solutions, suggesting an adoption of modern technologies like BIM, digital twins, and advanced analytics in project delivery.
• Lifecycle Asset Management: Costain's service offering covers the entire asset lifecycle, implying a holistic approach to design that considers long-term performance, maintenance, and efficiency.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Costain's commitment to "smart infrastructure" and its long history suggest a culture that values innovation, technical excellence, and a long-term perspective on asset development. The focus on blue-chip clients and national needs implies a demanding yet rewarding environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This Senior Design Manager role is positioned at an experienced level, requiring significant autonomy and the ability to lead complex design initiatives. It signifies a move beyond individual contribution to team leadership and strategic input on design delivery. Reporting Structure: Reporting to a Principal Design Manager indicates a structured career path within the design management hierarchy. This role is crucial for developing and implementing the design strategy for specific projects or frameworks. Operations Impact: The Senior Design Manager's work directly impacts the successful delivery of water infrastructure projects, influencing cost, quality, program, and crucially, the carbon efficiency of these assets. Their role is vital in translating strategic client needs into tangible, efficient, and sustainable infrastructure solutions.

Growth Opportunities:

• Progression to Principal Design Manager: A natural career progression path within Costain's design management structure.
• Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific areas such as BIM management, carbon reduction in design, or advanced project delivery methodologies.
• Leadership Development: Potential to lead larger teams, manage more complex frameworks, or transition into broader project management roles.
• Cross-Sector Experience: While focused on water, experience gained could be transferable to other infrastructure sectors Costain operates in (energy, transport, defence).

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is ideal for an experienced design professional looking to solidify their leadership credentials in a critical infrastructure sector. The growth opportunities are tied to increasing responsibility, strategic influence, and specialization within Costain's broader infrastructure solutions framework.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role involves a hybrid working model. This means a combination of working from a dedicated project office (Newcastle), client offices (Durham), design partner offices, and home. This structure necessitates adaptability and strong remote working capabilities. Office Location(s):

• Newcastle Project Office: Likely a hub for project-specific activities and team coordination.
• NWL Durham Offices: For direct collaboration with the client, Northumbrian Water.
• Design Partner Offices: For integrated design workshops and reviews.
• NWL Sites: For on-site assessments, coordination, and understanding of construction realities.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hubs: Project offices and client spaces will be designed to facilitate teamwork, design reviews, and stakeholder meetings.
• Technology-Enabled: Expect access to robust IT infrastructure, collaboration platforms, and design software necessary for efficient hybrid and remote work.
• On-Site Engagement: While hybrid, site visits are crucial for a practical understanding of project constraints and progress, fostering a grounded approach to design.

Work Schedule: The hybrid model offers flexibility. While a standard 40-hour week is expected, the ability to manage one's schedule across different locations will be key. Core working hours will likely be established for essential collaborative activities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of this role requires excellent organizational skills and the ability to maintain productivity and communication across multiple locations and teams. The emphasis on site visits underscores the practical, hands-on aspect of this design management position.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and application to assess suitability against core requirements, particularly water sector experience and design management proficiency.
• First Interview: Likely with the Principal Design Manager or a senior member of the design/project management team. Focus on technical expertise, design management methodologies, and behavioral competencies.
• Technical/Case Study Assessment: A practical exercise or case study may be presented, requiring candidates to outline their approach to a specific design challenge, focusing on process, collaboration, and carbon efficiency.
• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership or client representatives. Focus on strategic thinking, leadership potential, and cultural fit with Costain and the project team.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Achievements: For each project, highlight specific results achieved: e.g., "Reduced design iteration by X% through improved collaboration," "Achieved Y% carbon reduction in structural design through material optimization," "Successfully managed design delivery within Z% of budget."
• Showcase Process Mastery: Clearly articulate your approach to design management, procurement, control, and quality assurance. Use diagrams or flowcharts if appropriate to illustrate complex workflows.
• Highlight BIM & NEC4 Experience: Dedicate specific sections or examples to demonstrate your practical application of BIM to ISO 19650 and your understanding of NEC4 contract principles in design.
• Emphasize Collaboration: Include examples of successful cross-functional team leadership and collaboration with diverse stakeholders (client, partners, site teams).
• Tailor to Water Sector: Where possible, highlight projects or aspects of projects specifically relevant to the water industry.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Problem-Solving: Be prepared to discuss how you would approach a complex design problem, considering technical feasibility, cost, program, safety, and sustainability.
• Stakeholder Management Scenarios: Practice articulating your communication strategy for managing difficult conversations or resolving conflicts with different project stakeholders.
• Carbon Efficiency Strategy: Be ready to discuss innovative ways to incorporate carbon efficiency into design processes and project outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should anticipate a rigorous interview process that tests not only their technical and management skills but also their strategic thinking and ability to operate effectively within a large, complex project environment. A well-structured portfolio is essential for demonstrating practical experience and impact.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• BIM Software: Proficiency with industry-standard BIM platforms (e.g., Autodesk Revit, Navisworks) is essential for managing and coordinating design models.
• CAD Software: Familiarity with AutoCAD or similar CAD tools for detailed design work.
• Project Management Software: Experience with platforms like Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or similar for scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking.
• Collaboration Platforms: Tools such as Microsoft Teams, Slack, or dedicated project extranets for communication and document sharing.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret data from design processes, performance metrics, and potentially site feedback. Familiarity with Excel for data manipulation and basic analysis.
• Reporting Dashboards: Experience with creating or interpreting project status reports and dashboards, potentially using tools like Power BI or Tableau if integrated into Costain's systems.

CRM & Automation:

• Document Management Systems: Experience with systems for managing design documentation, revisions, and approvals (e.g., Aconex, Procore).
• Contract Management Systems: Familiarity with tools that support the administration of NEC4 contracts.
• Potential for Automation Tools: Awareness of how automation can be applied to design workflows or reporting processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific tools aren't listed, candidates should infer a need for proficiency in BIM and project management software commonly used in large infrastructure projects. Adaptability to Costain's specific technology stack will be crucial.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: A paramount value across all Costain operations, requiring a commitment to safe design practices and a proactive approach to risk management.
• Integrity: Upholding high ethical standards in all dealings, from design decisions to stakeholder interactions.
• Collaboration: Fostering a team-oriented environment where knowledge sharing and mutual support are encouraged across disciplines and project teams.
• Innovation: Driving the development and adoption of smart, efficient, and sustainable infrastructure solutions.
• Customer Focus: A commitment to understanding and exceeding client expectations, particularly in delivering value within the framework agreement.

Collaboration Style:

• Integrated Project Teams: Expect a highly collaborative environment where design, project management, commercial, and site teams work closely together.
• Open Communication: Encouragement of transparent and regular communication with all stakeholders, including design partners and the client.
• Constructive Feedback: A culture that values constructive feedback loops to continuously improve design processes and project outcomes.
• Cross-Functional Learning: Opportunities to learn from colleagues in different disciplines and understand their perspectives to achieve holistic project success.

📝 Enhancement Note: Costain's stated values and emphasis on integrated solutions suggest a culture that rewards teamwork, accountability, and a forward-thinking approach to infrastructure development. Candidates should demonstrate how their work style aligns with these principles.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Disciplines: Effectively integrating and managing the design inputs from Mechanical, Electrical ICA, and Civils teams, ensuring cohesion and preventing conflicts.
• Meeting Carbon Efficiency Targets: Developing and implementing design solutions that significantly reduce the carbon footprint of water infrastructure projects, often requiring innovative approaches.
• Navigating Framework Constraints: Delivering within the scope, budget, and timeline constraints of a long-term framework agreement, requiring proactive planning and risk management.
• Adapting to Hybrid Working: Maintaining seamless communication, collaboration, and productivity while working across multiple locations and with diverse teams.
• Stakeholder Alignment: Ensuring all stakeholders (client, design partners, site teams) are aligned on design objectives, progress, and any necessary changes.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced BIM & Digitalization: Deepen expertise in BIM workflows, digital twins, and other digital technologies transforming infrastructure design.
• Sustainability & Carbon Management: Develop specialized knowledge in sustainable design principles and carbon accounting relevant to infrastructure projects.
• NEC4 Contract Expertise: Gain in-depth practical experience and potentially formal accreditation in managing projects under NEC4 contracts.
• Leadership & Mentorship: Opportunities to mentor junior designers and develop advanced leadership skills within a large organization.
• Industry Best Practices: Exposure to cutting-edge practices and technologies through project work and potential industry events.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are inherent to complex infrastructure projects and design management roles. Overcoming these challenges offers significant opportunities for professional growth, skill enhancement, and career advancement within Costain.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Delivery Approach: "Describe your end-to-end process for managing the design delivery of a major water infrastructure project, from inception to construction handover. How do you ensure quality and efficiency?"
  • Preparation: Focus on a structured, phase-based approach. Detail your methods for design procurement, control, QA, and integration of disciplines. Be ready to provide a specific project example.
• Carbon Efficiency Integration: "How would you embed carbon efficiency considerations into the design process for a new water treatment facility? What specific strategies or tools would you employ?"
  • Preparation: Discuss lifecycle assessment, material selection, optimization techniques, and collaboration with sustainability specialists. Reference any relevant experience or knowledge of carbon calculators.
• Managing Design Partners: "Describe a situation where you had to manage a design partner or external consultant to ensure alignment with project goals. What challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them?"
  • Preparation: Prepare a STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method example focusing on communication, negotiation, and problem-solving.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Costain's Vision: "How does your approach to design management align with Costain's vision of being the UK's leading smart infrastructure solutions company?"
  • Preparation: Research Costain's website, focusing on their services, values, and commitment to innovation and sustainability. Connect your experience to their strategic objectives.
• Hybrid Working: "How do you ensure effective collaboration and maintain team cohesion when working in a hybrid environment with multiple stakeholders?"
  • Preparation: Discuss your strategies for communication, using collaboration tools, setting clear expectations, and fostering engagement across distributed teams.
• NEC4 Application: "Can you provide an example of how you've successfully applied NEC4 contract principles to manage design risks or facilitate collaboration on a project?"
  • Preparation: Be ready to discuss key clauses (e.g., Early Warnings, Compensation Events) and how you've used them effectively.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Project Selection: Choose 2-3 key projects that best showcase your experience in water infrastructure, design management, BIM, and carbon efficiency.
• Quantifiable Results: For each project, clearly present the scope, your role, the challenges, your solutions, and quantifiable outcomes (e.g., cost savings, program improvements, carbon reduction percentages).
• Process Focus: Visually represent your design management processes, including workflows, quality checks, and collaboration methods.
• BIM & NEC4 Evidence: Dedicate slides or sections to demonstrate practical application of these standards.
• Conciseness & Clarity: Present information clearly and concisely, focusing on impact and demonstrating your strategic thinking.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be looking for a candidate who not only possesses strong technical and management skills but also demonstrates strategic thinking, adaptability, and a clear understanding of Costain's business objectives and values within the infrastructure sector.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided Oracle Cloud portal link.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight experience in the water sector, design management, BIM (ISO 19650), NEC4 contracts, and carbon-efficient design. Use keywords from the job description and ensure achievements are quantified.
• Portfolio Preparation: Assemble a portfolio that visually demonstrates your capabilities in design lifecycle management, process optimization, and successful project delivery. Focus on case studies with measurable results.
• Company Research: Thoroughly research Costain Group's current projects, values, and strategic objectives, particularly their work in the water sector and their commitment to smart infrastructure and sustainability.
• Interview Practice: Prepare for potential interview questions by practicing your responses using the STAR method and rehearsing your portfolio presentation, focusing on articulating your strategic approach and impact.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details, including salary estimates and specific benefit packages, should be verified directly with Costain Group during the application and interview process.