Senior Fabrication Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Fabrication Design Manager Company: Galliford Try Location: United Kingdom Job Type: Full time Category: Operations & Project Management (Construction/Fabrication) Date Posted: 2025-07-28T14:10:03 Experience Level: 0-2 Years (Entry-level for a Senior role, suggesting a strong focus on potential and development) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage a team of fabrication design professionals, ensuring high performance and alignment with company vision and values.
• Oversee the operational delivery of fabrication projects, from initial design through to constructability and technical clarification.
• Champion Health and Safety standards, ensuring compliance with legislation, company policies, and statutory requirements within fabrication operations.
• Drive sustainable solutions, realizing cost and carbon opportunities while ensuring strict adherence to commercial, financial, and quality procedures, including BS EN 1090 & 3834 standards.
• Provide crucial design input across all project stages, from outline and optioneering to detailed design, utilizing structural analysis and CAD software.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "0-2 years of experience" for a "Senior" role is unusual. This suggests the company is looking for a candidate with strong foundational knowledge and leadership potential, possibly to be developed into the senior role. The emphasis on "Senior Fabrication Design Manager" indicates a strategic need for leadership in design processes within the fabrication division, likely with a focus on operational efficiency and technical excellence.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the Operations Director to foster strong relationships with the Fabrication management team, ensuring operational alignment and adherence to the Galliford Try vision, values, and culture.
• Act as the primary lead for Health and Safety, staying current with legislation, company policies, training, and statutory requirements to maintain a safe fabrication environment.
• Ensure seamless alignment with key client visions throughout contract delivery, prioritizing sustainable solutions that optimize cost and carbon footprint.
• Guarantee full compliance with all company commercial and financial procedures, including the thorough review and completion of contract documentation.
• Coordinate the operational delivery of fabrication projects by effectively managing the fabrication design team, resource allocation, and supply chain integration.
• Analyze cost and value to maintain budgets, ensuring efficient utilization of staff and resources, and adapting plans to meet evolving project requirements.
• Build and maintain a high-performing team through strategic recruitment, ongoing training, mentoring, and clear communication, managing performance and identifying areas for improvement.
• 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 Galliford Try functions (Health & Safety, Environment, Commercial, Quality) to review and implement improvement plans based on Key Performance Indicator (KPI) data.
• Produce comprehensive reports and board papers as required, providing clear insights into fabrication design and operational performance.
• Provide essential design input during the outline, optioneering, and detailed design stages of construction projects.
• Perform structural design and analysis calculations using governing codes, standards, engineering formulas, and company-specific design templates.
• Review structural plans, designs, layouts, and loading criteria to ensure accuracy and compliance.
• Consult with the Project Management team to assess the 'constructability' of steelwork structures.
• Support the ongoing business development of GT Fabs by evaluating new technologies, innovative working methods, and software packages.
• Conduct occasional site visits for field measurements, client meetings, and to provide technical clarification to proposals, engineers, workshop, and site personnel.
• Utilize Tekla and AutoCAD to develop layouts, drawings, and designs that meet project specifications and client expectations.
• Review and interpret structural plans provided by contractors and clients, ensuring consistency with project requirements.
• Validate GT Fabs designs against client specifications, Eurocodes, and British Standards.
• Apply 2D and 3D CAD skills for information creation, conveyance, and extraction relevant to project work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a blend of technical design oversight, team leadership, operational management, and adherence to stringent industry standards (BS EN 1090, BS EN 3834). The "0-2 years" experience for a "Senior" role implies the company is looking for someone with strong academic grounding and potentially internship/graduate-level experience in structural engineering or fabrication design, who can quickly ascend to managerial duties.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering or a closely related engineering discipline.
• 📝 Enhancement Note: While "0-2 years of experience" is listed, a degree in Civil Engineering is a fundamental requirement. For a "Senior" title with minimal experience, a strong academic record, relevant internships, or co-op experience in structural engineering or fabrication design will be crucial.

Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in civil and/or structural engineering, ideally within the fabrication and welding industry.
• Demonstrated experience in managing and developing teams is a key requirement for this senior role.
• Proven ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders, including project delivery teams, in-house personnel, sub-contractors, clients, and suppliers.
• Experience in leading Health and Safety initiatives and ensuring compliance.
• Familiarity with commercial and financial procedures in a project-based environment.
• Experience in resource and supply chain management.
• Track record of developing and maintaining high-performing teams through recruitment, training, and performance management.
• Experience in ensuring process rigor aligned with standards like BS EN 1090 & 3834.
• Experience in producing reports and board papers for senior management.
• Experience in providing design input and performing structural design/analysis.
• Experience with constructability assessments of steelwork structures.
• Experience in evaluating new technologies and working methodologies.
• Experience with site visits for field measurements and client meetings.

Required Skills:

• Leadership: Ability to lead, motivate, and manage a fabrication design team.
• Fabrication & Welding Industry Knowledge: Understanding of fabrication processes, welding standards, and industry best practices.
• Health and Safety Management: Strong knowledge of H&S legislation, policies, and risk management within a construction/fabrication context.
• Structural Design & Analysis: Proficiency in performing structural calculations and design using relevant codes and standards (e.g., Eurocodes, British Standards).
• CAD Software Proficiency: Expertise in using Tekla and AutoCAD for developing layouts, drawings, and designs.
• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication for stakeholder engagement, technical clarification, and reporting.
• Time Management & Prioritization: Ability to manage a varied workload, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines effectively.
• Attention to Detail: Meticulous approach to design, calculations, and process adherence.
• Problem-Solving: Aptitude for identifying and resolving technical and operational challenges.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Skill in building and maintaining relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Mentoring & Team Development: Capability to train, mentor, and develop team members.
• Business Acumen: Understanding of commercial and financial procedures, cost analysis, and budget management.
• Process Management: Ability to develop and maintain rigorous processes aligned with industry standards (BS EN 1090, BS EN 3834, BMS).

Preferred Skills:

• Finite Element Analysis (FEA) Software: Proficiency in StaadPro or equivalent FEA software.
• Microsoft Suite Proficiency: Advanced skills in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook for reporting and general business operations.
• Adaptability & Resilience: Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment and adapt to changing requirements.
• "Can Do" Attitude: Proactive and supportive approach to team collaboration.
• Cost & Carbon Optimization: Experience in identifying and realizing cost and carbon reduction opportunities in design and fabrication.
• Agile Working Practices: Familiarity with flexible working arrangements, though the role is primarily on-site.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualification requirements are somewhat contradictory with the "0-2 years" experience for a "Senior" role. Candidates with 0-2 years of experience but possessing a strong degree, relevant internships, and demonstrating leadership potential or prior team coordination experience would be the target profile. The emphasis on specific software like Tekla and StaadPro is critical.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate successful project lifecycle management, from conceptual design through to fabrication and site installation, highlighting your role in the process.
• Showcase examples of structural design calculations and analysis, clearly outlining the methodologies, codes, and standards applied.
• Include detailed CAD drawings and models (Tekla, AutoCAD) that illustrate your design capabilities and attention to detail.
• Present case studies of team leadership or project management within a fabrication or construction context, detailing challenges, solutions, and outcomes.
• Provide evidence of process improvement initiatives you have led or contributed to, focusing on efficiency gains, cost savings, or quality enhancements.
• Illustrate your understanding and application of BS EN 1090 and BS EN 3834 standards in design and fabrication processes.

Process Documentation:

• Examples of workflow design for fabrication projects, demonstrating how you manage the design process from inception to final approval.
• Documentation showcasing your approach to ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations and company policies throughout the design and fabrication lifecycle.
• Evidence of how you have managed commercial and financial aspects of projects, including budget adherence and cost analysis.
• Samples of reports or board papers prepared for management, demonstrating analytical and communication skills.
• Documentation of your approach to team development, performance management, and fostering a productive work environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the "0-2 years" experience but "Senior" title, a portfolio might focus more on academic projects, internships, or early-career responsibilities where leadership or significant process impact was demonstrated. The emphasis on BS EN standards and specific software is key for portfolio content.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• As a "Senior Fabrication Design Manager" with 0-2 years of experience in the UK, a competitive salary would typically range from £40,000 to £60,000 per annum. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for engineering management roles with significant responsibility in the construction sector in the United Kingdom, considering the experience level and the seniority implied by the title.

Benefits:

• Generous holiday entitlement, increasing with years of service, plus the opportunity to purchase further holidays.
• A wide range of corporate discounts.
• Cycle to Work schemes.
• Comprehensive pension plan.
• Regular Save as You Earn share purchase scheme.
• Private medical scheme options are available for all salaried employees.
• Employee assistance programme offering free 24/7 support.
• Paid yearly membership to one recognized professional association relevant to your role.
• Investment in high-quality training and development through programs like the leadership development framework and Career Paths initiative.
• Agile Working program offering flexibility (though the role is predominantly on-site).

Working Hours:

• The role is likely based on a standard 40-hour work week, typical for full-time positions in the UK construction industry. Flexibility may be discussed, but the core responsibilities suggest a significant on-site presence.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate for the UK market for a role with this title and experience level. Actual compensation will depend on the candidate's specific qualifications, experience, and the company's internal grading structure. The benefits package is comprehensive and attractive for attracting talent in the construction sector.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction and Infrastructure. Galliford Try is a major UK principal contractor involved in building and infrastructure projects, including significant work within the fabrication sector. Company Size: Large. Galliford Try is a FTSE 250 company, indicating a substantial workforce and significant operational scale. This means opportunities for structured career progression and exposure to large-scale projects. Founded: 1995 (as Galliford Try plc). The company has a long-standing presence and reputation in the UK construction market, suggesting a culture that values experience, reliability, and established processes.

Team Structure:

• The Fabrication Design Manager will lead a dedicated Fabrication Design team, likely comprising engineers, designers, and CAD technicians.
• The role reports into the Operations Director for the Fabrication division, indicating a clear line of management and strategic alignment with operational leadership.
• Close collaboration is expected with Project Management teams, central functions (Health & Safety, Commercial, Quality), sub-contractors, clients, and suppliers, highlighting a matrixed and cross-functional working environment.

Methodology:

• The company emphasizes data-driven decision-making, evidenced by the requirement to review KPI information and produce board papers.
• Workflow planning and optimization are critical, particularly in ensuring adherence to BS EN 1090 & 3834 standards and improving constructability.
• Automation and efficiency practices are encouraged, with the role tasked to review new technologies and software packages to support business development.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Galliford Try's established position in the UK construction market suggests a culture that values professionalism, safety, and delivering on major infrastructure projects. The "Senior" title with limited experience implies a culture that also invests in developing internal talent and providing clear career paths.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a "Senior" management position within the fabrication design operations. Despite the 0-2 years of experience requirement, it signifies a step into a leadership role responsible for a team and critical operational functions. It’s likely an entry point into management within the fabrication sector for individuals with strong technical foundations. Reporting Structure: The position reports directly to the Operations Director of the Fabrication division. This provides a clear reporting line, access to senior leadership, and direct involvement in strategic operational planning for fabrication. Operations Impact: The role has a direct impact on project success through efficient and compliant fabrication design. It influences project timelines, costs, quality, and safety outcomes, contributing to the overall profitability and reputation of Galliford Try's fabrication business. Effective leadership and process management in design directly translate to reduced fabrication errors, improved constructability, and enhanced client satisfaction.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Leadership Progression: Potential to advance to roles like Head of Fabrication Design, Fabrication Operations Manager, or even Director-level positions within Galliford Try or its related businesses, overseeing larger teams and more complex portfolios.
• Technical Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in structural engineering, fabrication technologies, and specific design software (Tekla, StaadPro), potentially becoming a subject matter expert.
• Project Management Development: Gaining experience in managing complex projects from a design and operational perspective can lead to roles in broader project management within the construction sector.
• Continuous Learning: Access to internal training programs, mentorship, and support for professional association memberships fosters ongoing skill development and career advancement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior" title with limited experience is a key indicator for career growth. Galliford Try appears to be investing in potential talent, offering a pathway to leadership with a structured development framework. Candidates should highlight their learning agility and leadership aspirations.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is described as "Nationwide" but the primary duties involving design, team management, and client liaison suggest a primary base within a Galliford Try office location, with significant site visit requirements. Office Location(s): United Kingdom. Specific office locations are not detailed, but candidates should expect to be based within a Galliford Try regional hub or headquarters. Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely be a mix of office-based design work, team meetings, and collaborative sessions, requiring interaction with project teams and management.
• Access to necessary design software (Tekla, AutoCAD, FEA tools) and IT infrastructure will be provided.
• Opportunities for direct interaction with the operations and project management teams will be frequent, fostering a dynamic and collaborative work environment.
• Occasional site visits will require adapting to varied working conditions on construction sites.

Work Schedule:

• The role is full-time, with standard working hours expected. While Galliford Try promotes Agile Working, the demands of a "Senior Fabrication Design Manager" role, especially with site visits and direct team management, imply a significant on-site presence and adherence to project schedules. Flexibility might be available for office-based tasks, but overall availability during core working hours and for project needs is paramount.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Nationwide" location implies travel is a significant component. Candidates should be prepared for regular site visits and potential work across different project locations within the UK.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a review of CV and application by the Resourcing Partner (Jade Adamson). Shortlisted candidates may have a brief phone or video call.
• First Interview: Typically with the hiring manager (Jade Adamson) and potentially a senior member of the operations or design team. Focus on experience, technical skills, leadership potential, and understanding of fabrication processes.
• Second Interview/Assessment: May involve a technical assessment, a case study related to fabrication design challenges, or a presentation of portfolio work. This stage often includes interviews with the Operations Director or other senior stakeholders to assess strategic fit and leadership capabilities.
• Final Interview: May involve senior management or HR to discuss culture fit, career aspirations, and final terms.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Leadership: Even with limited formal experience, showcase any instances of leading projects, coordinating tasks, mentoring peers, or taking initiative within academic or internship settings.
• Demonstrate Technical Proficiency: Include examples of structural calculations, design drawings (Tekla, AutoCAD), and analysis reports. Clearly articulate the design process, standards used (Eurocodes, British Standards), and any problem-solving involved.
• Showcase Process Awareness: Present examples of how you've contributed to or observed efficient workflows, safety protocols, or quality control measures in a design or fabrication context.
• Quantify Achievements: Where possible, use metrics to demonstrate the impact of your work (e.g., time saved, errors reduced, efficiency improvements).
• Structure for Clarity: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or skill area, with clear descriptions for each piece.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Scenario: Be prepared for a hypothetical scenario requiring you to design a steel structure or assess a fabrication process, focusing on constructability, cost-effectiveness, and safety.
• Team Management: Anticipate questions about how you would manage a team, handle performance issues, delegate tasks, and foster collaboration.
• Problem-Solving: Practice articulating how you would approach a design conflict, a client request for modification, or an issue with fabrication tolerances.
• Safety Focus: Be ready to discuss your commitment to Health and Safety and how you would implement and enforce safety procedures within a design team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "0-2 years" experience for a "Senior" role means the interview process will heavily scrutinize potential, learning agility, and foundational knowledge. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate a strong understanding of engineering principles, design software, and leadership qualities, even if their direct management experience is limited.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Tekla Structures: Essential for 3D modeling, detailing, and fabrication drawings in steel construction. Proficiency is critical.
• AutoCAD: Standard for 2D drafting and design, used for layouts and detailed drawings.
• StaadPro (or equivalent FEA): Required for structural analysis and design calculations, ensuring structural integrity and compliance with codes.
• Microsoft Office Suite: For reporting, documentation, communication, and data management (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Internal Reporting Tools: Likely proprietary systems for project tracking, KPI monitoring, and financial reporting.
• Excel: Heavily used for data analysis, budget tracking, and generating custom reports.

CRM & Automation:

• ERP/Project Management Software: Galliford Try likely uses robust systems for project management, resource allocation, and financial tracking. Familiarity with similar enterprise-level systems would be beneficial.
• BMS (Business Management System): Used for process adherence and quality management.

📝 Enhancement Note: Expertise in Tekla and AutoCAD is non-negotiable for this role. Proficiency in StaadPro or similar FEA software is also a key requirement. Demonstrating an ability to quickly learn and adapt to other project management and reporting tools used by Galliford Try will be advantageous.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity: Doing the right thing, maintaining honesty and ethical standards in all dealings.
• Excellence: Delivering high-quality work for clients and the community, striving for continuous improvement.
• Passion: Being dedicated to the role and the company's mission of building vital infrastructure.
• Collaboration: Working effectively with clients, supply chain, stakeholders, and internal teams to achieve shared goals.
• Safety: Prioritizing the health and safety of all people involved in operations.
• Sustainability: Considering environmental impact and seeking cost and carbon optimization opportunities.

Collaboration Style:

• The company promotes a collaborative approach, emphasizing cross-functional teamwork between design, project management, commercial, and site teams.
• Open communication and feedback are encouraged to drive process improvements and ensure project success.
• Building strong relationships with clients, sub-contractors, and suppliers is essential for smooth project delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: Galliford Try's values are central to their operations. Candidates should be able to articulate how their approach to design, team management, and problem-solving aligns with these core principles, particularly integrity, excellence, and collaboration.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Bridging Experience Gap: The primary challenge will be to demonstrate senior-level capability and leadership with limited formal experience, requiring strong foundational knowledge and a proactive approach to learning.
• Managing Diverse Stakeholders: Effectively communicating and managing expectations across various internal teams, clients, and sub-contractors in a high-pressure environment.
• Ensuring Compliance: Maintaining rigorous adherence to safety standards, quality procedures, and industry regulations (BS EN 1090, BS EN 3834, Eurocodes) across all design outputs.
• Technical Problem-Solving: Addressing complex structural design issues and constructability challenges that arise during project execution.
• Balancing Design & Operations: Integrating design considerations with operational realities, resource management, and supply chain dynamics.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Mentorship: Opportunities to be mentored by experienced Operations Directors and senior engineers within Galliford Try.
• Specialized Training: Access to training for advanced skills in Tekla, FEA software, and project management methodologies.
• Industry Exposure: Working on diverse and large-scale infrastructure projects provides invaluable practical experience.
• Professional Qualification Support: Funding and support for professional body memberships and potentially chartership (e.g., ICE, IStructE).
• Leadership Development: Structured programs designed to build management and leadership capabilities for future senior roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are directly linked to the unusual experience requirement for a senior role. Candidates should frame these challenges as opportunities for accelerated growth and learning, emphasizing their commitment to developing quickly.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Leadership & Team Management: "Describe a situation where you had to motivate a team or delegate tasks. How would you handle an underperforming team member?" (Prepare with examples from group projects, internships, or any leadership roles).
• Technical Design & Problem Solving: "Walk me through your process for designing a steel structure, including relevant codes and software. How would you approach a design clash or a constructability issue?" (Be ready to discuss specific design calculations and your thought process).
• Safety & Compliance: "What are your key responsibilities regarding Health and Safety in a design role? How do you ensure compliance with standards like BS EN 1090?" (Emphasize your understanding of risk assessment and procedural adherence).
• Stakeholder Management: "How would you communicate a complex design change to a client or a sub-contractor?" (Focus on clarity, clarity, and managing expectations).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Galliford Try's purpose and values, and how do you align with them?" (Research the company's website, mission, and values thoroughly).
• "How do you approach collaboration within a project team?" (Highlight your teamwork skills and cross-functional communication approach).
• "Describe your ideal work environment." (Tailor your answer to reflect the company's collaborative and professional culture).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Focus on Potential: For your portfolio, emphasize academic projects, internship work, or any relevant personal projects that showcase your technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and leadership potential, even if not formal "senior" experience.
• Explain Your Process: Clearly articulate the steps you took in each project, from understanding requirements to final design and documentation. Highlight your use of specific software and adherence to standards.
• Quantify Impact: If possible, quantify any positive outcomes from your work, such as efficiency gains, accuracy improvements, or successful completion of tasks within deadlines.
• Be Concise and Clear: Prepare a brief, compelling narrative for each portfolio item, focusing on the key skills and learning demonstrated.

Challenge Preparation:

• Technical Scenarios: Practice solving basic structural design problems and articulating your approach to constructability. Understand the typical challenges in steel fabrication.
• Behavioral Questions: Prepare for STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) answers for behavioral questions related to leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, and handling pressure.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong grasp of fundamental engineering principles, software proficiency, a commitment to safety and quality, and a proactive attitude towards leadership and learning, compensating for the limited direct experience.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided Oracle Cloud link.
• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your CV and any included portfolio pieces to highlight your foundational knowledge in structural engineering, fabrication design principles, and experience with Tekla and AutoCAD. If you have academic projects or internship work that demonstrates leadership or process improvement, ensure these are prominently featured.
• Resume Optimization: Integrate keywords from the job description such as "Fabrication Design," "Structural Design," "Tekla," "AutoCAD," "Health and Safety," "BS EN 1090," "BS EN 3834," "Team Management," and "Project Delivery." Quantify achievements where possible.
• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, your understanding of fabrication standards, and how you would approach team leadership and problem-solving, even with limited direct experience. Prepare specific examples using the STAR method.
• Company Research: Thoroughly research Galliford Try's purpose, values, current projects, and commitment to safety and sustainability. Be prepared to discuss how your personal values and working style align with the company's culture.

⚠️ 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.