Senior Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Design Manager

Company: Costain Group

Location: Camberley, Surrey, United Kingdom

Job Type: Full time

Category: Infrastructure Design Management / Operations

Date Posted: April 21, 2026

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

Remote Status: Hybrid (3 days in office, 2 days remote)

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversee the end-to-end design delivery for non-infrastructure wastewater projects within the Thames Water AMP8 Framework, ensuring strategic alignment with client objectives.

• Lead and mentor a team of Design Managers, fostering a collaborative environment focused on innovation and efficient project execution in a complex operational landscape.

• Drive the adoption of production thinking and carbon-efficient design solutions, integrating sustainability principles into all project phases.

• Ensure rigorous adherence to quality assurance standards, BIM protocols (ISO 19650), and the NEC4 suite of contracts throughout the design lifecycle.

• Act as a key liaison between Costain, Thames Water, and other stakeholders, facilitating seamless communication and integrated project delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within an operations-critical framework (Thames Water AMP8) and requires a strong blend of technical design oversight, team leadership, and contract management expertise, typical of senior operations roles in large infrastructure projects. The emphasis on "production thinking" and "carbon efficient design" indicates a forward-looking approach to operational efficiency and sustainability.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Manage and lead the design process for non-infrastructure wastewater projects, ensuring timely and within-budget delivery in accordance with the Thames Water AMP8 Framework requirements.

• Provide direct line management and technical guidance to Design Managers, supporting their professional development and performance.

• Collaborate closely with project teams, including engineers, contractors, and client representatives, to develop integrated and optimized design solutions.

• Implement and enforce robust quality assurance procedures to guarantee the integrity and compliance of all design outputs.

• Champion the use of BIM technologies, adhering to ISO 19650 standards, to enhance design coordination, visualization, and data management.

• Ensure all design activities are compliant with relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations, including CDM 2015.

• Develop and maintain strong working relationships with Thames Water stakeholders, understanding their operational needs and strategic goals.

• Proactively identify and mitigate design risks, implementing effective design control measures throughout the project lifecycle.

• Contribute to the procurement strategy for design services, working with commercial teams to secure appropriate resources and contracts.

• Foster a culture of continuous improvement, driving innovation in design methodologies and operational efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities outline a comprehensive design leadership role with significant operational impact, requiring not just technical oversight but also strategic planning, risk management, and stakeholder engagement, all critical functions in a high-stakes infrastructure operations environment.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline (Mechanical, Electrical, ICA, or Civil) or equivalent through experience.

• Higher National Certificate (HNC) or Higher National Diploma (HND) in a relevant engineering field.

Experience:

• Minimum of 5-10 years of progressive experience in engineering design, with a significant portion focused on design management within the water sector.

• Proven experience specifically within non-infrastructure wastewater projects is highly preferred.

• Demonstrated experience in maintenance, design, or capital delivery roles within the water industry.

Required Skills:

• Design Management: Expertise in managing the entire design lifecycle, from inception to handover, including planning, resourcing, and execution.

• Design Delivery: Proven ability to ensure designs are constructible, compliant, and meet project objectives efficiently.

• Wastewater Engineering: Technical understanding of non-infrastructure wastewater systems and processes.

• BIM & ISO 19650: Proficient understanding and application of Building Information Modeling standards, specifically ISO 19650.

• NEC4 Contracts: Working knowledge and practical application of the NEC4 suite of contracts.

• Quality Assurance: Experience implementing and overseeing robust QA/QC processes for design deliverables.

• Team Leadership: Ability to motivate, guide, and manage a team of Design Managers and technical staff.

• Collaboration: Strong interpersonal skills for effective cross-functional teamwork with internal departments, clients, and external partners.

Preferred Skills:

• Mechanical, Electrical, ICA (MEICA) Engineering: Specific expertise or strong understanding in these disciplines within a wastewater context.

• Civil Engineering: Knowledge of civil design aspects related to non-infrastructure wastewater systems.

• Design Procurement: Experience in the procurement of design services and consultant selection.

• Design Control: Proficiency in managing design changes, risks, and interfaces.

• CDM 2015 Regulations: Familiarity with Construction Design and Management regulations.

• Carbon Efficiency: Understanding of principles and practices for designing low-carbon infrastructure.

• Production Thinking: Familiarity with methodologies aimed at improving design and construction efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of core engineering disciplines, project management, and specific industry knowledge (water sector, wastewater). The explicit mention of BIM, ISO 19650, and NEC4 contracts points to a need for proficiency in modern infrastructure project delivery methodologies and contractual frameworks, crucial for operations roles.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Delivery Case Studies: Showcase examples of successfully delivered non-infrastructure wastewater projects, detailing the scope, challenges, your role, and the final outcomes. Highlight how design was managed from concept through to construction.

• Process Optimization Examples: Provide evidence of implementing process improvements in design management, such as workflow enhancements, risk mitigation strategies, or quality control enhancements, demonstrating measurable efficiency gains.

• BIM Integration Showcase: Include examples of how BIM (ISO 19650 compliant) was utilized within projects to improve coordination, visualization, clash detection, and data management, illustrating its impact on project delivery.

• Contractual Compliance Examples: Demonstrate experience in managing designs under NEC4 contracts, showing an understanding of key clauses related to design, risk, and collaboration.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Documented examples of established design workflows, including stages from client brief to detailed design, and how these have been optimized for efficiency and quality.

• System Implementation & Automation: Evidence of implementing or contributing to the implementation of design management systems or tools, and any automation used to streamline design processes.

• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Examples of how design performance, quality, and efficiency were measured and analyzed, including the use of KPIs and reporting mechanisms, particularly concerning carbon efficiency and production thinking.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio demonstrating hands-on experience in managing design, implementing modern standards (BIM, ISO 19650), and understanding contractual obligations (NEC4) is critical for this role. The emphasis on process optimization and the demonstration of efficiency improvements are key indicators of the operational rigor expected.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Based on industry benchmarks for Senior Design Managers in the UK with 5-10 years of experience in infrastructure and water sectors, and considering the hybrid working model and responsibilities, an estimated salary range would be £60,000 - £80,000 per annum. This estimation is derived from analysis of similar roles in engineering consultancies and major project delivery organizations in the UK, taking into account regional cost of living in Surrey and the specific demands of managing design for a major framework like Thames Water AMP8.

Benefits:

• Hybrid Working Model: Flexible arrangement with 3 days in office (London/Camberley/Reading) and 2 days remote, promoting work-life balance.

• Pension Scheme: Comprehensive company pension plan with employer contributions.

• Life Assurance: Generous life assurance cover for peace of mind.

• Professional Development: Support for continued professional development, including training, certifications, and potential for further career advancement within Costain.

• Health and Wellbeing Programs: Access to employee assistance programs and health and wellbeing initiatives.

• Cycle to Work Scheme: Opportunity to purchase bicycles and accessories tax-efficiently.

• Annual Leave: Competitive annual leave allowance, with options to purchase additional days.

Working Hours:

Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday. The hybrid model allows for flexibility in structuring these hours, with core working times likely established for team collaboration and client meetings.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on market data for similar roles in the UK. Actual compensation will be determined by experience, qualifications, and negotiation. The benefits package is typical for large engineering firms, with a strong emphasis on work-life balance and professional growth, which are attractive to operations professionals.

🎯 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. They aim to improve business performance for clients through increased capacity, enhanced customer service, improved resilience, decarbonization, and increased efficiency.

Company Size: Costain Group is a large, established company, likely employing several thousand individuals globally and within the UK. This size suggests a robust organizational structure, established processes, and opportunities for career progression.

Founded: Costain was founded in 1913, giving it over a century of experience in the construction and infrastructure sector. This long history implies stability, deep industry knowledge, and a proven track record of delivering major projects.

Team Structure:

• Operations Focus: The role sits within the Framework Engineering Manager's team, directly responsible for the design delivery of non-infrastructure wastewater projects on the Thames Water AMP8 Framework. This indicates a project-specific operational unit embedded within a larger organizational structure.

• Reporting Hierarchy: You will report to the Framework Engineering Manager, with direct line management responsibilities for Design Managers working on your projects. This structure emphasizes clear accountability and leadership within the design function.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: The role necessitates close collaboration with various internal teams (e.g., commercial, project management, BIM specialists) and external stakeholders, including Thames Water, suppliers, and subcontractors, to ensure integrated and efficient project delivery.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Emphasis on using data and insights to inform design decisions, particularly in relation to performance, efficiency, and carbon impact.

• Integrated Project Delivery: A focus on collaborative working and integrated workflows across all project phases and disciplines.

• Continuous Improvement: A commitment to refining processes, adopting new technologies, and enhancing operational efficiency through "production thinking" and sustainable design practices.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Costain's long history and focus on smart infrastructure solutions suggest a company that values expertise, innovation, and long-term client partnerships. The specific mention of the Thames Water AMP8 Framework highlights a significant, ongoing operational commitment to a key client, offering stability and depth of experience for professionals in this area.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Senior Design Management role, indicating a mid-to-senior level position within the operations and engineering function. It requires a significant level of technical expertise, management experience, and strategic thinking, positioned to influence project outcomes and team performance.

Reporting Structure: You will report to the Framework Engineering Manager, a senior leader responsible for the overall engineering delivery of the framework. This provides visibility to senior management and an opportunity to contribute to strategic framework-level decisions. You will also manage a team of Design Managers, developing your leadership and people management skills.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct impact on the successful delivery of critical non-infrastructure wastewater projects for Thames Water, a major utility. Effective design management ensures projects are delivered safely, on time, within budget, and to high-quality and environmental standards, directly contributing to the operational resilience and efficiency of Thames Water's assets.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to progress to roles such as Principal Design Manager, Technical Director, or Framework Engineering Manager, taking on greater responsibility for larger projects or multiple frameworks.

• Specialization Development: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific areas like wastewater engineering, BIM management, contract management (NEC4), or sustainability in infrastructure.

• Cross-Disciplinary Experience: Exposure to a wide range of infrastructure projects within Costain's portfolio (energy, transport, defence) could open doors to different operational sectors.

• Client Relationship Management: Developing strong ties with Thames Water can lead to future opportunities within their organization or in managing other key client accounts for Costain.

• Professional Certifications: Encouragement and support to obtain or maintain professional chartered status and specialized certifications relevant to engineering and project management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path outlined suggests a significant opportunity for growth within a large, established infrastructure company. The role is designed to build upon existing management skills and technical expertise, with clear pathways for advancement into more senior operational and leadership positions.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role operates under a hybrid working model. This involves spending time at Costain offices (likely in London and Camberley) and Thames Water's office in Reading. This blended approach aims to balance the need for in-person collaboration and client engagement with the benefits of remote work flexibility.

Office Location(s):

• Costain Offices: London and Camberley, Surrey. These locations likely offer modern office facilities, collaborative workspaces, and access to project teams.

• Thames Water Office: Reading. This location facilitates direct engagement with the client, fostering stronger relationships and better understanding of their operational needs.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The hybrid model and the nature of framework delivery emphasize teamwork. Expect a dynamic environment where collaboration with Design Managers, engineers, project managers, and client representatives is frequent and essential.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to and utilization of advanced design software, BIM platforms (compliant with ISO 19650), project management tools, and communication platforms will be standard.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for face-to-face interaction with your direct reports (Design Managers) and senior management during office days, crucial for team cohesion, mentorship, and strategic alignment.

Work Schedule:

The standard working hours are 40 hours per week. The hybrid arrangement offers flexibility, allowing for a balance between structured office-based collaboration and focused remote work. This schedule is designed to accommodate the demands of managing multiple design streams while ensuring effective communication and project oversight.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model is a key feature, indicating a modern approach to work that balances operational needs with employee well-being. The requirement to work across multiple locations underscores the integrated nature of the role within the Costain-Thames Water partnership.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and application by HR or a recruitment specialist to assess basic qualifications and experience.

• Hiring Manager Interview: An in-depth discussion with the Framework Engineering Manager focusing on your experience in design management, leadership capabilities, technical expertise (wastewater, BIM, NEC4), and understanding of the water sector. Be prepared to discuss your approach to managing teams and delivering projects.

• Technical/Panel Interview: This may involve meeting with other senior engineers, Design Managers, or client representatives. Expect technical questions related to design delivery, quality assurance, BIM standards (ISO 19650), and contract law (NEC4). You may be asked to present a case study from your portfolio.

• Final Interview/Offer: A concluding discussion, potentially with higher management, to confirm fit and discuss terms, or a final assessment of your suitability for the role.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-4 of your most impactful projects that best demonstrate your senior design management capabilities, particularly in wastewater or similar infrastructure.

• Focus on Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your strategic approach, the specific actions you took, the tools and methodologies you employed (BIM, ISO 19650, NEC4), and the measurable outcomes (efficiency gains, cost savings, quality improvements, carbon reduction).

• Structure Your Narrative: Use a STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) or similar framework to present your case studies clearly and concisely.

• Highlight Leadership: Emphasize your role in leading teams, mentoring Design Managers, and fostering collaboration to achieve project objectives.

• Quantify Achievements: Use data and metrics wherever possible to demonstrate the success of your designs and management approach.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Management Scenario: Be prepared for a hypothetical scenario where you are tasked with solving a design challenge on a wastewater project, such as managing a significant design change, resolving a conflict between disciplines, or accelerating a delayed design schedule. Outline your step-by-step approach, considering risk, quality, and stakeholder management.

• BIM Implementation Discussion: Anticipate questions about implementing BIM on projects, overcoming adoption challenges, and leveraging BIM data for operational insights.

• NEC4 Contract Application: Be ready to discuss specific clauses or scenarios within NEC4 contracts related to design responsibility, risk management, and collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is likely to be rigorous, focusing on both technical competence and leadership potential. Preparing a strong portfolio with well-documented case studies that highlight operational impact and modern methodologies is crucial for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design Software: Proficiency with industry-standard CAD and design software relevant to civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit, Bentley Systems products).

• BIM Platforms: Experience with BIM software and platforms that support ISO 19650 standards, such as Autodesk Construction Cloud, Navisworks, or similar CDE (Common Data Environment) solutions.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with project management tools for planning, scheduling, and tracking design progress (e.g., Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Asana, Monday.com).

• Collaboration Platforms: Effective use of tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for communication, document sharing, and team coordination.

Analytics & Reporting:

• BIM Data Analysis: Ability to extract and analyze data from BIM models for performance monitoring, clash detection, and reporting.

• Reporting Tools: Experience generating reports on design progress, quality metrics, risk assessments, and budget adherence. This may involve using built-in features of project management software or more advanced BI tools.

• Dashboarding: Familiarity with creating or interpreting dashboards that visualize key performance indicators (KPIs) for design delivery and operational efficiency.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems (Client-Facing): While not a direct CRM role, understanding how client project data is managed and accessed within systems like Oracle Cloud HCM, or similar enterprise resource planning (ERP) tools, is beneficial for client interaction and framework management.

• Workflow Automation: Familiarity with tools or methodologies that automate repetitive design tasks or approval processes to improve efficiency.

• Integration Knowledge: Understanding how different software systems (e.g., BIM, project management, ERP) can be integrated to ensure seamless data flow and operational efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack emphasizes BIM compliance (ISO 19650), robust project management capabilities, and effective collaboration tools. Proficiency in these areas is essential for managing complex infrastructure design projects efficiently and ensuring seamless integration with client systems.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: A paramount commitment to health and safety in all design decisions and team practices, aligning with Costain's core values.

• Integrity: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all dealings with colleagues, clients, and partners, fostering trust and transparency.

• Collaboration: A belief in the power of teamwork, encouraging open communication, knowledge sharing, and mutual support across disciplines and departments.

• Innovation: Driving continuous improvement through creative problem-solving, embracing new technologies, and seeking efficient, sustainable solutions ("production thinking," carbon efficiency).

• Accountability: Taking ownership of responsibilities, delivering on commitments, and accepting accountability for project outcomes.

Collaboration Style:

• Integrated Approach: Fostering a culture where design teams work seamlessly with project management, commercial, and client teams, breaking down traditional silos.

• Constructive Feedback: Encouraging an environment where feedback is openly shared and received, facilitating continuous learning and process refinement.

• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting the sharing of best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise across the team and the wider organization.

• Proactive Engagement: Encouraging team members to actively engage with stakeholders, anticipate challenges, and propose solutions collaboratively.

📝 Enhancement Note: Costain's values emphasize a responsible, ethical, and forward-thinking approach to infrastructure development. The collaborative style expected aligns with the integrated delivery model required for large frameworks like the Thames Water AMP8.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complexity of Framework Delivery: Managing design across multiple non-infrastructure wastewater projects within a large framework, each with unique requirements and timelines.

• Stakeholder Management: Balancing the diverse needs and expectations of internal teams, Thames Water, and other third parties to ensure project alignment and satisfaction.

• Driving Innovation: Effectively implementing "production thinking" and carbon-efficient design methodologies in a traditional sector, potentially facing resistance to change.

• Technical Evolution: Keeping pace with advancements in design technology, BIM standards, and sustainable engineering practices to maintain best-in-class delivery.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced BIM & Digital Engineering: Opportunities to deepen expertise in BIM, digital twins, and other advanced digital construction technologies.

• Sustainability in Infrastructure: Developing specialized knowledge in designing for decarbonization and circular economy principles within the water sector.

• Leadership & Management Training: Access to formal leadership development programs, coaching, and mentorship to enhance people management and strategic decision-making skills.

• Contractual Expertise: Further development in managing complex contracts like NEC4, potentially through formal training and certification.

• Industry Exposure: Gaining broad experience across different types of infrastructure projects within Costain's portfolio.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents challenges inherent in managing large-scale infrastructure projects, offering significant opportunities for professional growth, particularly in areas of leadership, digital transformation, and sustainability within the water sector.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to managing the design lifecycle for a complex wastewater project under an NEC4 contract. How would you ensure carbon efficiency is integrated from the outset?"

  • Preparation: Focus on outlining a structured process, emphasizing early engagement, risk management, collaborative planning, and specific metrics for carbon assessment.

• "How do you lead and motivate a team of Design Managers to achieve high-performance standards, especially when working under pressure and with tight deadlines?"

  • Preparation: Discuss your leadership style, methods for setting clear expectations, providing feedback, fostering a positive team environment, and empowering team members.

• "Walk us through a challenging design scenario you encountered in a previous role. What was the problem, what steps did you take to resolve it, and what was the ultimate outcome?"

  • Preparation: Use the STAR method. Highlight your problem-solving skills, technical judgment, and ability to manage difficult situations effectively.

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Costain's vision for smart infrastructure and its commitment to sustainability?"

  • Preparation: Research Costain's website, annual reports, and recent news. Connect their values to your own professional ethos and how you can contribute.

• "How do you see your role contributing to the success of the Thames Water AMP8 Framework and Costain's broader objectives?"

  • Preparation: Articulate how your design management expertise, leadership, and focus on efficiency align with the framework's goals and Costain's strategic priorities.

• "Describe your experience working with clients like Thames Water. What are the key elements of building and maintaining a strong client relationship in a framework context?"

  • Preparation: Discuss your client-facing experience, focusing on communication, understanding client needs, and delivering value.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Visual Aids: Prepare slides or a digital presentation that visually showcases key aspects of your case studies, including project diagrams, BIM models (screenshots), and performance charts.

• Concise Storytelling: For each project, tell a clear story highlighting the challenges, your strategic decisions, the actions taken, and the quantifiable results. Focus on your leadership and management contributions.

• Interactive Discussion: Be prepared to answer detailed questions about your portfolio projects, demonstrating a deep understanding of the technical, contractual, and operational aspects.

• Alignment with Role: Explicitly connect the achievements and skills demonstrated in your portfolio to the specific requirements of the Senior Design Manager role at Costain.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a deep understanding of design management best practices, modern technologies (BIM, ISO 19650), contractual frameworks (NEC4), and a strong leadership capability, all within the context of infrastructure operations.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided Oracle Cloud portal link to Costain Group.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in design management, wastewater engineering, BIM (ISO 19650), and NEC4 contracts. Showcase specific achievements relevant to infrastructure projects and client frameworks.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly details your years of experience, specific project responsibilities, leadership roles, and quantifiable accomplishments in design delivery and process optimization. Integrate keywords mentioned in the job description naturally.

• Interview Preparation: Practice answering common interview questions related to leadership, technical expertise, and problem-solving using the STAR method. Prepare a concise presentation of your key portfolio case studies.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Costain Group, their current projects (especially with Thames Water), their values, and their commitment to sustainability and innovation. Understand how your skills and experience align with their operational goals.

⚠️ 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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