Senior Design Manager – MEPHFC

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Design Manager – MEPHFC

Company: SYSTRA

Location: London, UK (Hybrid)

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Design Management / Rail Infrastructure Operations

Date Posted: September 30, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage MEPHFC (Mechanical, Electrical, Public Health, Fire, Communications) design aspects for major rail infrastructure projects within a joint venture framework.

• Ensure timely and compliant delivery of MEPHFC designs, coordinating closely with construction partners, package contractors, and consultants.

• Drive the resolution of complex technical interfaces and manage change control processes to maintain design integrity and program adherence.

• Uphold rigorous quality assurance and constructability reviews for all design submissions, fostering value engineering opportunities.

• Serve as a primary liaison for MEPHFC design matters, facilitating effective communication and collaboration across all project stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is situated within the critical MEPHFC discipline for a high-profile rail infrastructure project, indicating a significant need for specialized technical oversight and robust project management capabilities. The "Senior" title and "10+ Years" experience requirement suggest a leadership position with substantial responsibility for design delivery and stakeholder alignment. The hybrid work arrangement implies a need for strong self-management and communication skills to effectively bridge on-site and off-site collaboration.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Oversee the end-to-end design delivery process for MEPHFC systems, ensuring alignment with project scope, budget, and program constraints.

• Proactively identify, manage, and resolve technical and programmatic interfaces between MEPHFC systems and other project disciplines (e.g., FRC, structural, architectural).

• Lead the review and acceptance of design deliverables from consultants, subcontractors, and suppliers, ensuring quality, completeness, and constructability.

• Manage the technical change control process, including the raising, responding to, and implementing changes (GCs, EWs, RFIs, EIs/CEs) impacting MEPHFC designs.

• Facilitate and support value engineering initiatives by working with relevant teams to identify cost-saving and efficiency improvements without compromising design integrity.

• Act as the main point of contact for MEPHFC design matters for the Construction Partner, package contractors, and the client, fostering strong working relationships.

• Coordinate the detailed design development and ensure compliance with contractual and regulatory requirements, including CDM 2015.

• Monitor the performance and submissions of subcontractors' design teams, ensuring adherence to quality, interface, and program requirements.

• Lead constructability reviews to ensure designs are practical and efficient for implementation on-site.

• Support package teams in identifying and implementing value engineering opportunities through approved processes.

• Provide expert guidance and support to package teams in the identification and implementation of value engineering opportunities.

• Manage field change processes, ensuring timely approval of changes by the Consultant and instruction by relevant parties.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a deep dive into the practicalities of design implementation within a complex rail environment. Emphasis on interface management, change control, and constructability points to a role that bridges the gap between design conception and on-site execution. The requirement to manage subcontractors' design submissions and liaise with various departments (Commercial, Planning, Controls, Delivery) indicates a need for strong operational and coordination skills.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Degree or higher level qualification in a numerate discipline, preferably Engineering (or related field).

• HNC or HND may be acceptable with extensive senior design delivery experience.

• Chartered Engineer status or membership in an appropriate professional institution, or equivalent demonstrated experience. Experience:

• Minimum 10 years of progressive experience in design management, with a strong focus on rail infrastructure projects.

• Proven track record on major London rail projects, including London Underground, Network Rail, Crossrail, and TFL.

• Substantial experience in managing MEPHFC (Mechanical, Electrical, Public Health, Fire, Communications) systems design and delivery.

• Extensive experience liaising with MEPHFC designers, contractors, subcontractors, and clients. Required Skills:

• Design Management: Proven ability to lead and manage complex design processes from inception to completion.

• MEPHFC Systems Expertise: Deep understanding of mechanical, electrical, public health, fire, and communications systems within a rail context.

• Rail Infrastructure Knowledge: In-depth familiarity with the specific challenges and requirements of London rail projects.

• Project Management: Strong capabilities in planning, execution, and delivery of design packages within defined timelines and budgets.

• Stakeholder Management: Excellent ability to engage with and manage diverse groups of internal and external stakeholders.

• Technical Assurance: Proficiency in ensuring design quality, compliance, and risk mitigation.

• Value Engineering: Experience in identifying and implementing cost-effective design solutions.

• Change Control Management: Skill in managing and documenting design changes effectively.

• Client Liaison: Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with clients and key project sponsors.

• Constructability Reviews: Expertise in assessing designs for practical on-site implementation.

• Interface Management: Demonstrated success in resolving complex interdisciplinary interfaces.

• Engineering Design Principles: Solid foundation in engineering principles and application to infrastructure projects.

• Quality Assurance: Commitment to upholding high standards in design and documentation.

• Infrastructure Design: Broad understanding of infrastructure design principles and project lifecycles.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience within a similar senior design management role in a comparable organization.

• Strong IT skills, including proficiency with 3D modeling software and data management for design processes.

• Working knowledge of the Construction Design and Management Regulations 2015 (CDM 2015).

• Commitment to continuous professional development for oneself and others.

• High level of personal responsibility and adaptability to diverse project requirements.

• Ability to lead the development of detailed engineering solutions.

• NEC3 contract experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on chartered status or equivalent experience underscores the seniority and technical depth expected. The specific mention of London rail projects (LU, NR, Crossrail, TFL) is a critical differentiator. The combination of "MEPHFC systems" and "rail infrastructure" expertise is paramount. Preferred skills like CDM 2015 and NEC3 contracts indicate a need for regulatory and contractual awareness.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a track record of successfully managing complex MEPHFC design packages on large-scale rail infrastructure projects.

• Showcase examples of resolving critical design interfaces and mitigating associated risks.

• Provide evidence of implementing robust change control and technical assurance processes.

• Illustrate contributions to value engineering initiatives, highlighting cost savings or efficiency improvements achieved.

• Present case studies of successful client liaison and stakeholder engagement in a design management context. Process Documentation:

• Showcase familiarity with developing and implementing design management plans, including workflow design and optimization.

• Provide examples of process documentation for managing design deliverables, submissions, and approvals.

• Demonstrate experience in documenting and managing technical changes through approved change control procedures.

• Illustrate methodologies for conducting and documenting constructability reviews and value engineering workshops.

• Present examples of how you have monitored and assured the quality of subcontractor design submissions.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Senior Design Manager role, a portfolio should not just list projects but critically analyze the candidate's role in driving design processes, managing interfaces, and achieving specific outcomes. The focus should be on demonstrating strategic thinking, problem-solving skills, and the ability to deliver complex technical solutions within demanding project environments. Process documentation examples should reflect a structured approach to design governance.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for Senior Design Managers with 10+ years of experience in London's rail infrastructure sector, a competitive salary range is estimated between £75,000 - £95,000 per annum. This estimate considers the specialized skills required, the project's high profile, and the significant responsibilities involved. SYSTRA's commitment to attracting top talent for critical roles supports this range. Benefits:

• Comprehensive private medical insurance, including optical and dental coverage.

• Generous pension scheme with employer contributions.

• Life assurance cover.

• 25 days of annual leave, plus bank holidays.

• Opportunities for professional development, including training courses and funding for professional body memberships.

• Access to employee assistance programs and wellbeing resources.

• Cycle to Work scheme.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses. Working Hours:

• Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday.

• The hybrid work arrangement allows for flexibility, with a requirement for a significant presence in the office during core business hours to facilitate team collaboration and site engagement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on London-based roles for similar senior engineering and design management positions within the infrastructure and construction sectors, considering the high demand for specialized rail experience. Benefits are standard for large engineering consultancies in the UK, with an emphasis on professional development to align with the role's seniority.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: SYSTRA operates within the global transportation and mobility sector, specializing in infrastructure planning, design, engineering, and project management. The company is deeply involved in delivering complex projects for mass transit, rail, highways, and urban mobility.

Company Size: SYSTRA is a large, international organization with over 10,300 employees globally and approximately 1,000 in the UK & Ireland. This scale offers opportunities for broad exposure to diverse projects and access to a wide network of expertise.

Founded: Founded over 60 years ago, SYSTRA has a long-standing reputation for expertise and innovation in the transportation engineering field. This history suggests a stable and established organization with deep industry knowledge and a commitment to long-term growth.

Team Structure:

• The MEPHFC Design Manager reports to the Lead Design Manager and works within the Mechanical & Electrical Engineering Discipline.

• The role involves close collaboration with other Design Managers, Construction Partner delivery teams, package contractors, consultants, and various internal departments (Commercial, Planning, Controls, Delivery).

• The team structure emphasizes a matrixed approach within a joint venture, requiring strong coordination and communication across multiple entities. Methodology:

• SYSTRA's methodology is centered on delivering assured designs that are sustainable, accessible, and innovative.

• Emphasis is placed on robust planning, design integration, testing, commissioning, and project management.

• The company utilizes established processes and procedures to ensure compliant design delivery and stakeholder satisfaction.

• Data-driven decision-making and a focus on lifecycle performance are likely core to their operational approach.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: SYSTRA's global reach and significant presence in the UK & Ireland indicate a structured, professional environment with established processes. The company's focus on sustainability and innovation suggests a forward-thinking culture that values technical excellence and forward-looking solutions. The joint venture context implies a need for adaptability and strong collaborative skills.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior leadership position within the design management function, specifically focused on MEPHFC systems in rail. It requires a high degree of technical expertise, project leadership, and strategic oversight. The position is critical for the successful delivery of complex infrastructure projects.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Design Manager reports directly to the Lead Design Manager, who is accountable for the overall compliant design, testing, and handover of the project. This structure places the role at a crucial juncture for design implementation and coordination.

Operations Impact: The MEPHFC Design Manager has a direct and significant impact on the project's success by ensuring that critical mechanical, electrical, and life safety systems are designed and implemented correctly. This directly influences project safety, functionality, operational efficiency, and client satisfaction. Their ability to manage interfaces and resolve design issues is vital to preventing delays and cost overruns.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to progress into a Lead Design Manager role or a broader Project Director position, overseeing multiple disciplines or larger project portfolios.

• Specialization Development: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific MEPHFC sub-disciplines or advanced rail technologies through ongoing project involvement and professional development.

• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Potential to gain experience in other engineering disciplines or project management functions within SYSTRA's diverse project landscape.

• Mentorship: Opportunity to mentor junior design engineers and managers, contributing to the development of future talent within the organization.

• International Opportunities: As a global company, SYSTRA may offer opportunities to work on international projects or contribute to global best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior" designation and direct reporting to the Lead Design Manager indicate a significant level of autonomy and responsibility. The growth opportunities are geared towards senior leadership within project delivery and specialized technical domains, reflecting the career path of experienced infrastructure professionals.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based at the GWR Old Oak Common Rail Depot in West London, suggesting a site-adjacent office environment. This location is practical for site visits and close collaboration with construction teams. The "Hybrid" work arrangement indicates a blend of office-based work and remote flexibility.

Office Location(s): GWR Old Oak Common Rail Depot, Old Oak Common Lane, London, NW10 6ED, UK. This location is accessible within London.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely involve a mix of office-based design coordination and project meetings, alongside regular site visits to monitor progress and address on-site design queries.

• Collaboration will be key, with access to project teams, design software, and potentially site facilities.

• The environment is expected to be dynamic and fast-paced, typical of major rail infrastructure projects. Work Schedule:

• The standard 40-hour week is the baseline, but the demanding nature of major projects may require flexibility and occasional extended hours to meet critical deadlines or resolve urgent issues. The hybrid model allows for some control over work location.

📝 Enhancement Note: The specific depot location suggests a hands-on role closely integrated with the construction phase of the project. The hybrid nature implies a need for efficient time management to balance office-based responsibilities, remote work, and essential site presence.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of CV and cover letter, focusing on demonstrated experience in MEPHFC systems, rail infrastructure, and design management on major UK projects.

• Technical Interview: In-depth discussion on MEPHFC systems, design management methodologies, interface resolution, and experience with rail-specific challenges. Candidates will be expected to articulate their approach to managing design delivery, quality assurance, and change control.

• Case Study/Presentation: Candidates may be asked to present a portfolio showcasing relevant projects, focusing on their role in managing MEPHFC design, resolving complex interfaces, and achieving project objectives. This will assess their communication, problem-solving, and strategic thinking abilities.

• Stakeholder/Cultural Fit Interview: Meeting with senior management or a panel to assess leadership potential, collaboration skills, and alignment with SYSTRA's values and the project's joint venture culture.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure for Impact: Organize your portfolio to clearly highlight your most relevant projects, emphasizing your specific contributions to MEPHFC design on UK rail infrastructure.

• Quantify Achievements: For each project, detail the scale of MEPHFC systems managed, the complexity of interfaces resolved, and any quantifiable outcomes (e.g., cost savings from value engineering, reduction in design queries, adherence to program).

• Demonstrate Process Mastery: Include examples of design management plans, change control logs, interface matrices, and constructability review reports. Explain the processes you implemented and why.

• Highlight Rail Expertise: Clearly articulate your experience with specific UK rail operators (LU, NR, Crossrail, TFL) and your understanding of their unique requirements and standards.

• Showcase Leadership: Use the portfolio to demonstrate your ability to lead teams, manage subcontractors, and effectively liaise with clients and other stakeholders.

Challenge Preparation:

• MEPHFC System Knowledge: Be prepared to discuss specific technical aspects of MEPHFC systems and their integration in rail environments.

• Interface Management Scenarios: Practice articulating how you would approach and resolve complex interdisciplinary interface issues common in rail projects.

• Change Control & VE Strategies: Be ready to explain your approach to managing design changes and facilitating value engineering processes within project constraints.

• CDM 2015 Application: Understand how CDM 2015 impacts the design management process and be able to discuss your role in ensuring compliance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely focus heavily on practical experience and problem-solving within the rail sector. A well-curated portfolio that directly addresses the MEPHFC and UK rail requirements will be crucial for demonstrating suitability. Emphasis on process and quantifiable results will differentiate strong candidates.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency with industry-standard CAD platforms (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit) for reviewing and understanding design drawings and models.

• 3D Modeling: Experience navigating and controlling processes for 3D models, likely within BIM (Building Information Modeling) environments.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with project management tools for scheduling, task tracking, and resource allocation (e.g., MS Project, Primavera P6).

• Collaboration Platforms: Experience with tools like Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, or similar for document sharing, communication, and team collaboration.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret data from design submissions, progress reports, and site feedback to inform decision-making.

• Reporting Software: Experience generating reports on design progress, risks, and issues for project stakeholders.

CRM & Automation:

• Document Management Systems: Familiarity with systems for managing large volumes of design documentation, ensuring version control and accessibility.

• Workflow Automation: Understanding of how to leverage technology to streamline design approval and review processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly listed, a Senior Design Manager in this context would be expected to be highly proficient in BIM environments and associated collaboration tools, given the complexity of modern rail infrastructure projects. The ability to navigate and interpret 3D models is specifically mentioned as desirable.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Technical Excellence: A commitment to delivering high-quality, technically sound MEPHFC designs that meet stringent rail industry standards.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a collaborative environment where open communication and mutual support are paramount, especially within the joint venture and with external partners.

• Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all dealings, ensuring transparency and accountability in design management and decision-making.

• Innovation & Sustainability: Driving forward innovative design solutions with a focus on long-term sustainability and operational efficiency for transport infrastructure.

• Safety First: A paramount commitment to safety in all design considerations, ensuring the wellbeing of the public and project personnel.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive & Communicative: Engaging actively with all stakeholders, ensuring clear and timely communication to resolve issues and maintain project momentum.

• Solution-Oriented: A focus on identifying problems and collaboratively developing practical, effective solutions.

• Cross-Functional Integration: Working seamlessly with other disciplines, construction teams, and commercial departments to achieve integrated project delivery.

• Feedback-Driven: Encouraging and providing constructive feedback to continuously improve design processes and team performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: SYSTRA's emphasis on sustainability, accessibility, and innovation, combined with the demands of a large rail project, suggests a culture that values both technical rigor and collaborative problem-solving. The "SYSTRA signature team" implies a pride in delivering high-quality, impactful work.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complex Interface Management: Navigating and resolving intricate technical interfaces between MEPHFC systems and other critical project elements (structural, architectural, etc.) in a live rail environment.

• Dynamic Project Environment: Adapting to evolving project requirements, site conditions, and stakeholder priorities in a fast-paced, high-stakes infrastructure project.

• Balancing Design and Construction: Ensuring that design intent is maintained while accommodating site constraints and constructability requirements, often under tight deadlines.

• Regulatory Compliance: Staying abreast of and ensuring adherence to the latest rail industry standards, safety regulations (e.g., CDM 2015), and client-specific requirements.

• Multi-Stakeholder Coordination: Effectively managing the expectations and inputs of various parties, including the client, joint venture partners, contractors, and subcontractors.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Rail Systems Training: Deepen knowledge in specialized MEPHFC areas or emerging rail technologies through internal and external training programs.

• Project Management Certifications: Support for obtaining or maintaining professional certifications (e.g., PMP, APM) to enhance project leadership capabilities.

• Leadership Development Programs: Access to SYSTRA's leadership training initiatives designed to cultivate senior management talent.

• Industry Conferences & Seminars: Opportunities to attend leading industry events to stay current with best practices, new technologies, and regulatory changes.

• Mentorship: Benefit from mentorship from experienced senior leaders within SYSTRA, gaining insights into strategic decision-making and career progression.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for senior roles on major infrastructure projects, requiring strong technical acumen, resilience, and excellent stakeholder management skills. The growth opportunities are aligned with advancing into higher levels of leadership and specialization within the engineering and project management fields.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Management Philosophy: "Describe your approach to managing MEPHFC design delivery on a major rail infrastructure project. What are the critical success factors, and how do you ensure compliance and quality?" (Prepare to discuss your methodology, risk management, and QA processes.)

• Interface Resolution: "Walk me through a complex interdisciplinary interface challenge you faced on a rail project. How did you identify it, what steps did you take to resolve it, and what was the outcome?" (Prepare a specific case study with quantifiable results.)

• Stakeholder Engagement: "How do you effectively engage with diverse stakeholders, including clients, contractors, and subcontractors, to ensure alignment on MEPHFC design objectives?" (Focus on communication strategies and conflict resolution.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• SYSTRA's Role: "What interests you about SYSTRA and this specific Senior Design Manager role within the MEPHFC discipline on a major London rail project?" (Research SYSTRA's recent projects and values.)

• Joint Venture Dynamics: "How do you navigate working within a joint venture structure, and what are your strategies for fostering collaboration and addressing potential conflicts between partners?" (Demonstrate understanding of JV complexities.)

• Design Process Improvement: "Can you provide an example of how you have improved a design management process or implemented a new methodology to enhance efficiency or quality?" (Highlight your proactive approach and impact.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Focus on Relevance: Select 2-3 key projects that best showcase your MEPHFC and UK rail infrastructure experience.

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the challenge, your specific role and actions, the solutions implemented, and the tangible results achieved (quantify wherever possible).

• Highlight Key Processes: Use your portfolio to visually demonstrate your understanding and application of design management plans, interface management, change control, and constructability reviews.

• Address MEPHFC Specifics: Ensure your presentation clearly details your expertise in mechanical, electrical, public health, fire, and communications systems within the rail context.

• Practice Your Narrative: Be prepared to articulate your experience concisely and confidently, answering questions about your contributions and decision-making processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a deep understanding of MEPHFC systems, extensive experience in UK rail, and proven ability in managing complex design processes and stakeholder relationships. The portfolio is a critical tool for substantiating claims and providing concrete evidence of capabilities.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Design Manager – MEPHFC position:

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

• Tailor your CV and Cover Letter: Ensure your application documents specifically highlight your experience with MEPHFC systems, major UK rail projects (London Underground, Network Rail, Crossrail, TFL), and senior design management responsibilities. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a concise portfolio that showcases your most relevant projects, focusing on your contributions to MEPHFC design, interface management, and problem-solving. Be ready to present specific examples during the interview process.

• Research SYSTRA and the Project: Familiarize yourself with SYSTRA's work, its values, and any publicly available information about the specific project you would be supporting. Understand the company culture and its approach to engineering.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare for technical questions related to MEPHFC systems and rail design, as well as behavioral questions about leadership, problem-solving, and stakeholder management. Rehearse your portfolio presentation.

⚠️ 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.