Lead Mechanical Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Lead Mechanical Design Manager

Company: Skanska

Location: Peterborough, England, United Kingdom

Job Type: Permanent, Full-Time

Category: Engineering & Construction Management

Date Posted: October 02, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the mechanical design function for infrastructure projects, focusing on the Anglian Water program and its critical water treatment facilities.

• Drive project delivery excellence by ensuring adherence to safety, quality, budget, and sustainability standards, leveraging innovative digital tools and methodologies.

• Mentor and develop a team of junior mechanical engineers, fostering a culture of continuous learning and technical growth within the engineering department.

• Champion sustainable and modular design solutions across multidisciplinary teams, building strong collaborative networks within the @one Alliance.

• Oversee the review of design outputs, ensuring compliance with industry standards, regulations, and supporting commissioning and CDM strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within Skanska's Infrastructure function, specifically contributing to the @one Alliance for Anglian Water. This implies a focus on large-scale civil engineering and water infrastructure projects, demanding strong project lifecycle management and stakeholder engagement skills. The "Lead" title suggests significant responsibility for team leadership and technical direction.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage the end-to-end mechanical design process for infrastructure projects, ensuring delivery aligns with project timelines, budgets, and quality benchmarks.

• Implement and champion the adoption of innovative technologies, digital design tools, and efficient working practices to enhance project outcomes and operational efficiency.

• Provide technical leadership, mentorship, and professional development guidance to junior mechanical engineers, fostering their growth and team cohesion.

• Conduct rigorous reviews of mechanical design outputs, verifying compliance with safety regulations, engineering standards, and project specifications, while supporting commissioning activities and CDM compliance.

• Cultivate and maintain robust relationships with internal stakeholders and external partners within the @one Alliance to drive collaborative project execution and promote sustainable, modular design approaches.

• Contribute to the strategic planning and development of mechanical engineering solutions, focusing on long-term sustainability and operational resilience for water infrastructure.

• Ensure all design activities adhere to environmental regulations and Skanska's sustainability objectives, embedding green principles into project execution.

• Support the procurement and tender processes by providing technical input and design expertise for mechanical systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical leadership, project management, and team development. The emphasis on "innovation, digital tools, and smarter ways of working" suggests a forward-thinking approach to engineering management, requiring candidates to be adept with modern technologies and methodologies.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related engineering discipline.

Experience: Proven track record of extensive mechanical engineering experience, with demonstrated progression into leadership and management roles.

Required Skills:

• Mechanical Engineering Expertise: In-depth knowledge and practical application of mechanical engineering principles, particularly within infrastructure and water treatment systems.

• Leadership & Mentoring: Proven ability to lead, motivate, and develop engineering teams, with a strong track record of mentoring junior engineers.

• Design Review & Compliance: Expertise in reviewing design outputs for quality, safety, and regulatory compliance, including familiarity with commissioning processes and CDM strategies.

• CAD Software Proficiency: Advanced skills in industry-standard CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Revit MEP) and other relevant engineering design and analysis tools.

• Communication & Collaboration: Exceptional interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills, enabling effective collaboration with diverse stakeholders across multidisciplinary teams and alliances.

• Project Management Fundamentals: Understanding of project delivery principles, including on-time, on-budget, and quality-focused execution.

• Industry Standards & Regulations: Comprehensive knowledge of relevant mechanical engineering standards, building codes, environmental regulations, and health & safety legislation.

Preferred Skills:

• Sustainable & Modular Design: Experience in developing and implementing sustainable and modular design solutions for infrastructure projects.

• Digital Tools & Innovation: Familiarity with advanced digital engineering tools, BIM (Building Information Modeling), and a proactive approach to adopting new technologies.

• Alliance/Partnership Collaboration: Experience working within complex alliance structures or collaborative partnerships, such as the @one Alliance model.

• Cost Estimation & Budget Management: Ability to contribute to cost estimations and manage budgets for mechanical design elements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize a strong foundation in mechanical engineering coupled with leadership capabilities. Proficiency in CAD is a must, and experience with digital tools and collaborative frameworks like alliances is highly valued, suggesting the company seeks candidates who can drive efficiency and innovation within a complex project environment.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Delivery Case Studies: Documented examples of successfully delivered mechanical engineering projects, highlighting your role, challenges, solutions, and outcomes.

• Design Optimization Examples: Evidence of implementing process improvements or design enhancements that led to improved efficiency, cost savings, or sustainability.

• Team Leadership & Mentoring Examples: Demonstrations of how you have led, mentored, and developed engineering teams, showcasing leadership style and impact.

• Technical Review Documentation: Samples or descriptions of how you have conducted design reviews, ensuring quality, safety, and compliance.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Showcase your ability to design, document, and optimize mechanical engineering workflows, from conceptualization to handover.

• Implementation & Automation: Provide examples of how you have implemented new processes, technologies, or automation to improve engineering operations.

• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Demonstrate how you track and analyze the performance of mechanical design processes and teams, using data to drive improvements.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Lead role, a portfolio should not only showcase technical proficiency but also leadership and process improvement capabilities. Candidates should be prepared to detail their involvement in project lifecycles, team development, and the application of advanced engineering methodologies.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Based on industry benchmarks for a Lead Mechanical Design Manager in the UK with 5-10 years of experience, particularly within the construction and infrastructure sector, a competitive salary range is estimated between £60,000 - £85,000 per annum. This estimate considers the complexity of the role, the required qualifications, and the strategic importance of the Anglian Water project.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimates are based on typical UK market rates for similar leadership roles in civil engineering and construction, considering factors like location (Peterborough), experience level (5-10 years), and industry (infrastructure/water). Actual compensation will be determined by Skanska based on individual qualifications and experience.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health & Wellbeing:

  • 24/7 digital GP service for you and your family, offering convenient access to medical advice and consultations.
  • Financial wellbeing support and an employee assistance program (EAP) providing confidential counseling and support for personal and professional challenges.

• Professional Growth:

  • Dedicated professional development opportunities, including training, workshops, and potential for further certifications.

• Family Support:

  • Enhanced family benefits, including generous maternity leave, paternity leave, dependants leave, and parental bereavement leave, supporting work-life balance.

• Work-Life Integration:

  • Flexible working options available where possible, to be discussed during the application stage. Working Hours: The role is expected to involve approximately 40 hours per week, with potential for flexibility to be discussed.

📝 Enhancement Note: The benefits package is robust, emphasizing employee wellbeing, family support, and continuous professional development, aligning with Skanska's commitment to a supportive and inclusive work environment.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction and Development. Skanska is a global leader in construction and development, with a significant presence in infrastructure projects, including water management and utilities. The Anglian Water project is part of the @one Alliance, a collaborative partnership focused on delivering essential water infrastructure improvements.

Company Size: Skanska is a large, international organization, employing approximately 27,000 people globally. This scale offers stability, resources, and broad career opportunities.

Founded: Skanska was founded in 1887, bringing a long history of expertise and innovation in the construction industry.

Team Structure:

• Mechanical Engineering Team: You will lead a team of junior mechanical engineers, working within the broader Infrastructure function. The team structure likely involves close collaboration with civil engineers, project managers, and other specialists.

• Reporting Structure: The role reports into a senior management position within the Infrastructure function, likely a Head of Engineering or Project Director.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: High degree of collaboration with project managers, site engineers, procurement teams, clients (Anglian Water), and alliance partners within the @one Alliance.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Emphasis on using data and analytics to inform design choices and optimize project outcomes.

• Process Optimization: Continuous focus on refining engineering workflows for efficiency, safety, and quality.

• Innovation & Digitalization: Proactive adoption of digital tools, BIM, and smart technologies to enhance design and construction processes.

• Sustainability Focus: Integration of sustainable practices and modular design principles throughout the project lifecycle.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Skanska's global scale and long history suggest a stable and resource-rich environment. The @one Alliance structure implies a collaborative, partnership-driven approach to project delivery, requiring strong interpersonal and alliance management skills. The company's commitment to "The Skanska Way" points to a culture valuing diversity, innovation, and ethical practices.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior-level position within the mechanical engineering and project management domain. As a Lead Mechanical Design Manager, you are expected to provide expert technical direction, manage complex design challenges, and lead a team of engineers. This is a critical role in ensuring the successful delivery of major infrastructure projects.

Reporting Structure: You will report to a senior leader within Skanska's Infrastructure function, overseeing the mechanical design aspects of the Anglian Water project. You will, in turn, manage and mentor junior mechanical engineers.

Operations Impact: Your role is pivotal in ensuring the technical integrity, safety, and sustainability of vital water infrastructure. Successful project delivery directly contributes to Anglian Water's investment goals and environmental protection efforts, impacting millions of people across the East of England. Your leadership will shape the technical standards and innovative practices adopted by your team and influence the overall project outcomes.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in areas like sustainable water infrastructure design, advanced modular construction, or digital engineering technologies.

• Leadership Advancement: Progress to higher management roles, such as Head of Mechanical Engineering, Technical Director, or Program Manager, overseeing larger portfolios or multiple projects.

• Cross-Functional Mobility: Opportunities to move into broader project management, operations management, or strategic roles within Skanska's diverse business units.

• Industry Influence: Contribute to industry best practices, potentially through involvement in professional bodies, standards committees, or Skanska's internal innovation forums.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career progression within Skanska, moving from technical leadership to broader management responsibilities. The focus on a major infrastructure project provides high-visibility experience and opportunities to build expertise in critical sectors.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a hybrid role, indicating a blend of office-based work and remote working. The office environment is likely to be professional and collaborative, supporting project planning, design review, and team coordination.

Office Location(s): The primary office location is Peterborough, England. Skanska may also have project site offices or facilities that require occasional visits.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The office space will likely facilitate teamwork, allowing for face-to-face meetings, design workshops, and cross-functional discussions with project teams.

• Technology Enabled: Access to necessary engineering software, IT infrastructure, and communication tools to support both office and remote working.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular interaction with your direct reports, peers, and senior management, fostering a supportive and communicative team dynamic.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is approximately 40 hours per week. The hybrid nature of the role and Skanska's commitment to flexible working suggest that specific daily hours may offer some flexibility, subject to project demands and team coordination needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model at Skanska aims to balance the need for in-person collaboration and focus with the flexibility of remote work. Candidates should expect a professional office environment in Peterborough that supports high-performance engineering teams.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and application by the recruitment team to assess alignment with the core requirements.

• Hiring Manager Interview: An in-depth discussion with the hiring manager to explore your technical expertise, leadership experience, project management approach, and cultural fit.

• Technical Assessment/Case Study: You may be asked to present a case study from your portfolio demonstrating your approach to a complex mechanical design challenge, your leadership style, or your problem-solving methodologies. This could involve a presentation or a detailed discussion.

• Team/Stakeholder Interviews: Interviews with potential team members or key stakeholders from the @one Alliance to assess collaboration skills and suitability for working within a partnership environment.

• Final Interview: Potentially a final discussion with senior leadership to confirm suitability for the role and company.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Leadership: Highlight instances where you led teams, mentored junior engineers, and influenced design decisions.

• Quantify Impact: Use metrics to demonstrate the success of your projects and process improvements (e.g., cost savings, efficiency gains, safety record improvements, sustainability metrics).

• Detail Your Process: Explain your approach to design review, problem-solving, and stakeholder engagement using specific examples.

• Tailor to Skanska: Emphasize projects and experiences relevant to infrastructure, water treatment, and collaborative alliance environments.

• Prepare for Questions: Be ready to discuss your design philosophy, your approach to innovation, and how you handle challenging project situations.

Challenge Preparation:

• Technical Scenarios: Anticipate questions related to mechanical design principles, engineering standards, and problem-solving for complex infrastructure challenges.

• Leadership Scenarios: Prepare to discuss how you manage teams, resolve conflicts, and foster a positive work environment.

• Process Improvement: Be ready to articulate how you identify opportunities for process optimization and implement changes effectively.

• Alliance Dynamics: Consider how you would navigate collaboration and decision-making within a multi-partner alliance structure.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is likely to be multi-stage, focusing on both technical competence and leadership capabilities. A well-prepared portfolio that demonstrates quantifiable achievements and a clear understanding of collaborative project delivery will be crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency in industry-standard CAD packages is essential. This likely includes:

  • AutoCAD (2D drafting and design)
  • Revit MEP (Building Information Modeling for mechanical systems)
  • Potentially other 3D modeling and design software (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor).

• BIM Software: Experience with Building Information Modeling (BIM) platforms for integrated design and collaboration.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with project scheduling and tracking tools (e.g., Microsoft Project, Primavera P6) to manage project timelines and resources.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret technical data and reports; familiarity with tools for data visualization and analysis may be beneficial.

• Reporting Dashboards: Experience creating or interpreting reports on project progress, design compliance, and team performance.

CRM & Automation:

• Collaboration Platforms: Tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for internal communication and collaboration.

• Document Management Systems: Experience with systems for managing and versioning design documents and project information.

• Potential for Specialized Engineering Software: Depending on specific project needs, familiarity with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software, Finite Element Analysis (FEA) tools, or specific water engineering design software might be advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role demands strong proficiency in core engineering design software, particularly CAD and BIM. Experience with project management and collaboration tools is also critical for effective team and project delivery within Skanska's operational framework.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: A paramount value at Skanska, expecting all team members to prioritize safety in design and execution.

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

• Customer Focus: Dedication to meeting and exceeding client expectations through quality delivery and strong relationships.

• Innovation: Encouraging creative thinking and the adoption of new technologies and smarter ways of working to drive continuous improvement.

• Sustainability: Commitment to environmental responsibility and developing solutions that contribute to a sustainable future.

• Inclusion & Diversity: Fostering a workplace where differences are valued, leading to richer perspectives and stronger teams ("The Skanska Way").

Collaboration Style:

• Partnership-Oriented: Working effectively within the @one Alliance and other collaborative structures, emphasizing shared goals and mutual respect.

• Cross-Functional Integration: Seamlessly collaborating with diverse teams (civil, electrical, project management, site operations) to achieve integrated project outcomes.

• Open Communication: Encouraging transparent dialogue, active listening, and constructive feedback to ensure alignment and address challenges proactively.

• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting an environment where best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise are shared freely among team members.

📝 Enhancement Note: Skanska's culture appears to be built on strong ethical foundations, a commitment to safety and sustainability, and a forward-looking approach to innovation. The emphasis on "The Skanska Way" and collaborative partnerships highlights the importance of teamwork and inclusivity.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complex Project Demands: Managing the intricate design requirements of large-scale infrastructure projects like those for Anglian Water, which involve stringent regulations and high public impact.

• Stakeholder Management: Navigating the diverse needs and expectations of multiple stakeholders within the @one Alliance and client organization.

• Driving Innovation: Successfully integrating new digital tools and sustainable practices into established engineering workflows, overcoming potential resistance to change.

• Team Development: Effectively mentoring and developing a team of engineers with varying levels of experience, ensuring consistent quality and performance.

• Balancing Technical Rigor with Efficiency: Ensuring all designs meet the highest technical and safety standards while remaining cost-effective and delivered on schedule.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Access to specialized training in areas like advanced water treatment technologies, sustainable design certifications, or cutting-edge digital engineering tools.

• Leadership Development Programs: Skanska likely offers structured programs to enhance leadership, project management, and strategic thinking skills.

• Industry Conferences & Networking: Opportunities to attend industry events, gain insights into emerging trends, and build professional networks.

• Mentorship: Benefit from mentorship from senior leaders within Skanska and potentially within the @one Alliance network.

• Exposure to Large-Scale Projects: Gain invaluable experience managing and delivering complex, high-profile infrastructure projects that have a significant societal impact.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant opportunities for professional growth through exposure to complex projects and leadership challenges. Candidates who embrace innovation and collaborative problem-solving will find ample room for development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Operational Strategy: "Describe your approach to leading a mechanical design team on a major infrastructure project. How would you ensure adherence to safety and quality standards while driving innovation and efficiency?" (Focus on your leadership style, process implementation, and ability to balance competing priorities.)

• Collaboration & Stakeholder Management: "How would you foster collaboration within the @one Alliance and manage relationships with diverse stakeholders to achieve project goals?" (Prepare examples of successful cross-functional or multi-partner collaboration.)

• Problem-Solving: "Walk me through a complex mechanical design challenge you've faced. What was your methodology for diagnosing the issue, developing a solution, and ensuring its successful implementation?" (Use the STAR method - Situation, Task, Action, Result - and highlight your analytical and decision-making skills.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• Culture Fit: "What aspects of 'The Skanska Way' resonate most with you, and how would you contribute to fostering an inclusive and innovative work environment?" (Research Skanska's values and be prepared to align your experiences with them.)

• Team Dynamics: "How do you approach mentoring junior engineers and building a high-performing team? What strategies do you use to motivate and develop individuals?" (Provide specific examples of your mentoring approach and team-building successes.)

• Impact Measurement: "How do you measure the success of mechanical design processes and the impact of your team's work on project outcomes and company objectives?" (Discuss metrics related to design quality, efficiency, safety, and sustainability.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Highlight Key Projects: Select 2-3 impactful projects that best showcase your leadership, technical expertise, and project delivery capabilities.

• Quantify Achievements: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your role, the solutions implemented, and the quantifiable results (e.g., cost savings, schedule improvements, safety metrics, sustainability impact).

• Demonstrate Process: Explain your methodologies for design review, risk management, stakeholder engagement, and team leadership using concrete examples.

• Focus on Collaboration: If applicable, detail your experience working in alliance or partnership structures, emphasizing your approach to shared goals and communication.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about your technical decisions, design choices, and leadership actions within your case studies.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to demonstrate not only technical expertise but also strong leadership, communication, and strategic thinking abilities. A well-structured portfolio presentation that clearly links past achievements to the requirements of this role will be highly advantageous.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Lead Mechanical Design Manager position:

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

• Portfolio Customization: Curate your CV and any supporting documents to highlight experience in infrastructure, mechanical design management, team leadership, and collaboration within complex project environments. Prepare a concise summary of your most relevant projects for potential portfolio discussion.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly articulates your years of experience, specific technical skills (CAD, BIM), leadership accomplishments, and experience with industry standards relevant to construction and water infrastructure. Use keywords from the job description.

• Interview Preparation: Thoroughly review the company's values ("The Skanska Way"), research the Anglian Water project and the @one Alliance, and prepare detailed answers to potential interview questions, focusing on your leadership, problem-solving, and collaboration skills. Practice presenting your portfolio case studies.

• Company Research: Gain a deep understanding of Skanska's mission, its commitment to sustainability, and its approach to innovation. Familiarize yourself with the @one Alliance's objectives and structure to demonstrate your alignment with their operational philosophy.

⚠️ 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.