Senior/Principal Design Manager for Design & Build

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior/Principal Design Manager for Design & Build

Company: AtkinsRéalis

Location: Manchester, England, United Kingdom (with flexibility for Leeds, Glasgow, Belfast)

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Engineering & Design Management (Water Infrastructure)

Date Posted: May 26, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years (Senior/Principal level)

Remote Status: Hybrid (3 days in office/site per week)

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage multi-disciplinary engineering teams in the delivery of complex Design & Build (D&B) projects within the UK water market.

• Drive technical excellence and innovation, ensuring compliance with national and project-specific design codes, standards, and regulations.

• Contribute significantly to business operations, including client relationship management, business development, and talent acquisition within the Design & Advanced Technology (D&AT) Practice.

• Oversee the entire project lifecycle for critical infrastructure, from conceptual design through to construction-phase support, ensuring timely and budget-conscious delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned at a Senior/Principal level, indicating a significant scope of responsibility, strategic input, and leadership. The focus on Design & Build (D&B) contracts within the water sector is critical and requires a candidate with specific contract and delivery model experience. The emphasis on client management and business development suggests a blend of technical leadership and commercial acumen.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor multi-disciplinary engineering teams, fostering a collaborative environment for the delivery of technical design work on complex D&B projects.

• Manage the end-to-end production, review, and approval of technical deliverables, including design reports, calculations, drawings, and scopes of work.

• Spearhead the development of project design strategies and ensure alignment with project milestones, budgets, and timelines in close collaboration with project management.

• Provide technical leadership within the D&AT practice, influencing national initiatives and recommending best practices for process improvement and service enhancement.

• Grow and develop the Design Management capabilities within the regional and national practice, with a specific focus on D&B contract execution.

• Take ownership of technical aspects in bid proposals, collaborating with internal teams to develop winning strategies and solutions.

• Act as a technical advisor to clients, operational teams, and project stakeholders, offering insights and solutions to complex engineering challenges.

• Inspire and lead global multi-disciplinary teams to deliver integrated and innovative design solutions that meet client objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on project delivery excellence and practice development. The emphasis on "leading and shaping a team," "accountable for managing production," and "provide Technical Leadership" clearly defines a senior management role. The specific mention of D&B contracts and the water market (United Utilities, Yorkshire Water, etc.) is a key differentiator.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Degree in Civil Water Engineering or an equivalent engineering discipline.

Experience:

• Extensive experience in leading large-scale engineering design delivery within a design consultancy environment, specifically for Design & Build (D&B) projects.

• Demonstrated experience in managing the full project lifecycle, from initiation to completion, on complex, multi-disciplinary infrastructure projects.

Required Skills:

• Design Management: Expertise in leading and orchestrating complex design processes, particularly within D&B frameworks.

• Civil Water Engineering: Deep understanding of hydraulics, wastewater, clean water infrastructure, water reuse, and pipeline design principles.

• Technical Leadership: Ability to provide strategic technical direction, mentor teams, and drive innovation in engineering solutions.

• Client & Stakeholder Management: Proven ability to build strong relationships, manage expectations, and communicate effectively with clients, contractors, and internal teams at all levels.

• Risk & Quality Management: In-depth knowledge of risk assessment, quality control, and proactive design management methodologies.

• Project Delivery: Strong capability in managing project timelines, budgets, and resources to achieve key milestones.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with other market sectors in addition to Water.

• Familiarity with MEICA (Mechanical, Electrical, Instrumentation, Control, and Automation), Structures, and Geotechnics disciplines.

• Proficiency in project management software and contract administration, particularly NEC contracts.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for Chartered Engineer status and specific experience in the Water market with D&B contracts are critical qualifications. The "10+" years of experience implicitly frames this as a senior or principal role, demanding strategic thinking and proven leadership.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a portfolio showcasing successful leadership of complex, multi-disciplinary Design & Build (D&B) projects, particularly within the water sector.

• Highlight case studies that illustrate your ability to manage the full project lifecycle, including design development, risk mitigation, and stakeholder engagement.

• Include examples of process optimization initiatives you have led, demonstrating improvements in efficiency, cost-effectiveness, or quality.

Process Documentation:

• Showcase your understanding of developing and implementing robust design management processes for D&B contracts.

• Illustrate your approach to managing change, quality control, and risk throughout the design and construction phases.

• Provide examples of how you have facilitated collaboration and communication across diverse multi-disciplinary teams and with external stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Senior/Principal Design Manager role, a portfolio is crucial. It should not only display project outcomes but also the candidate's strategic approach to design management, team leadership, and process improvement within the specific context of D&B projects and the water industry.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Competitive Salaries

• Comprehensive Employee Rewards Program

• Extensive Training and Professional Development Opportunities (e.g., for leadership, technical specializations, certifications)

• Hybrid Working Model (3 days office/site, 2 days flexible)

• Flexible Holiday Allowances

• Pension Scheme

• Health and Wellbeing Support Programs

• Life Assurance

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are typically around 37.5 - 40 hours per week. The hybrid model offers flexibility, with the expectation of 3 days per week in a designated AtkinsRéalis office or on-site, allowing for a balance between collaborative work and personal flexibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on industry data for similar senior engineering management roles in the UK, considering the specified locations and the "Senior/Principal" designation. The benefits listed are common within large engineering consultancies and align with the company's general description.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering Services, Infrastructure Development, Nuclear, Construction. AtkinsRéalis operates across a broad spectrum of critical sectors, with this role specifically focused on the Water market.

Company Size: Large Enterprise (AtkinsRéalis is a global organization with tens of thousands of employees). This implies access to extensive resources, diverse projects, and established corporate structures.

Founded: AtkinsRéalis has a long history, with roots tracing back to 1911. This heritage suggests stability, deep industry knowledge, and a long-term vision.

Team Structure:

• The role sits within the Design & Advanced Technology (D&AT) Practice, specifically serving the Water market. This practice likely comprises a significant number of engineers and technical specialists.

• You will lead and collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams, including Civil, Structural, Mechanical, Electrical, Instrumentation, Control, and Automation (MEICA) engineers, as well as potentially Geotechnical specialists.

Methodology:

• AtkinsRéalis emphasizes a data-driven approach, client-centric solutions, and the integration of technology to solve complex engineering challenges.

• Expect a focus on collaborative working, leveraging diverse perspectives to drive innovation and efficiency in project delivery.

• The company champions a proactive approach to sustainability and 'engineering a better future.'

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's global scale and focus on critical infrastructure suggest a dynamic yet structured environment. The emphasis on "engineering a better future" and "diverse perspectives" indicates a commitment to innovation and inclusivity, which are key cultural indicators for potential employees.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior/Principal Design Manager. This level signifies a strategic role with significant autonomy, responsibility for key client relationships and project outcomes, and a mandate to influence practice-wide initiatives. It sits above standard Design Manager roles and often involves mentoring junior staff and contributing to business strategy.

Reporting Structure: Typically, this role would report to a Director or Senior Vice President within the relevant business unit (e.g., Water Sector Lead, Head of D&AT Practice). You will likely have direct reports, including other Design Managers and potentially a team of engineers. Cross-functional collaboration with Project Directors, Commercial Managers, and other discipline leads is essential.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct impact on the successful delivery of major infrastructure projects, influencing client satisfaction, project profitability, and AtkinsRéalis's reputation in the Water market. Strategic input into business development and practice growth also contributes significantly to the company's overall success.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to progress into Director-level roles, overseeing larger portfolios, P&L responsibility, or taking on national/international leadership positions within the D&AT practice.

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas of water engineering or D&B contract management, becoming a recognized subject matter expert.

• Business Development: Transition into roles with a stronger commercial focus, leading client engagement, winning bids, and shaping market strategies.

• Mentorship & Training: Develop leadership and coaching skills by mentoring junior engineers and design managers, contributing to the company's talent pipeline.

• International Exposure: Opportunities to engage with global projects and teams, leveraging AtkinsRéalis's international presence.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior/Principal" designation suggests a clear career trajectory, moving beyond pure project execution to strategic influence and leadership within the organization and the industry.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid working environment, with a requirement for 3 days per week in an AtkinsRéalis office (Manchester, Leeds, Glasgow, or Belfast) or on-site. This fosters a blend of in-person collaboration and remote flexibility.

Office Location(s):

• Manchester, England, United Kingdom

• Leeds, England, United Kingdom

• Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom

• Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom

Candidates can express a preference for their primary office location.

Workspace Context:

• The office environment is designed to facilitate collaboration, with meeting rooms, shared workspaces, and access to necessary technology.

• Expect a professional setting with access to advanced design software, BIM platforms, and communication tools to support complex project work.

Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time hours (approx. 37.5-40 hours/week) with a hybrid arrangement. The focus is on delivering results and meeting project deadlines, with flexibility in how and where the work is completed within the established hybrid framework. This allows operations professionals to manage their time effectively around data analysis, reporting, and strategic planning needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model is a significant aspect of the work environment, offering flexibility while maintaining the benefits of in-person team interaction and client engagement critical for senior roles.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and cover letter, focusing on relevant D&B experience in the Water sector, Chartered status, and leadership capabilities.

• First Interview: Likely with a hiring manager or senior member of the D&AT practice. Focus on technical experience, D&B project delivery, team leadership, and understanding of the Water market. Behavioral questions assessing problem-solving and collaboration.

• Assessment/Presentation: A potential technical assessment or a request to present a case study from your portfolio showcasing a complex D&B project you managed. This will evaluate your design management approach, strategic thinking, and communication skills.

• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership, potentially focusing on strategic fit, business development potential, and cultural alignment with AtkinsRéalis values.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate D&B Water Projects: Select 2-3 significant D&B projects within the water sector (clean water, wastewater, pipelines) that best demonstrate your leadership and project management skills.

• Structure Case Studies: For each project, clearly outline the challenge, your role and responsibilities, the design management approach, key technical solutions, stakeholder engagement, process optimizations implemented, and the ultimate outcomes (e.g., budget adherence, schedule management, quality, client satisfaction).

• Quantify Impact: Use metrics and data where possible to demonstrate the impact of your leadership and process improvements (e.g., % reduction in design errors, % cost savings, schedule improvements).

• Highlight Leadership: Emphasize your role in leading and motivating multi-disciplinary teams, managing client relationships, and contributing to business development.

• Technical Depth: Be prepared to discuss the technical nuances of the projects and your understanding of relevant codes and standards (CDM, Eurocodes, etc.).

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss how you would approach common D&B challenges, such as scope creep, managing conflicting stakeholder interests, technical design issues, or budget constraints.

• Prepare examples of how you have successfully navigated these challenges in past roles.

• Anticipate questions about your leadership style, how you foster collaboration, and your approach to continuous improvement within a design team.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio showcasing direct experience in Design & Build within the Water sector is paramount. Candidates should be prepared to articulate their strategic approach to design management and leadership in detail.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Experience with tools like MS Project, Primavera P6, or similar for planning, scheduling, and resource management of complex D&B projects.

• Design & Engineering Software: Proficiency with or oversight of teams using AutoCAD, Civil 3D, Revit, or other BIM platforms for 3D modeling and design visualization.

• Collaboration Platforms: Familiarity with CDEs (Common Data Environments) for managing project information, alongside tools like Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, or similar for communication and document sharing.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Visualization: Experience with or ability to leverage tools like Power BI or Tableau for performance tracking, reporting on project KPIs, and presenting insights to stakeholders.

• MS Office Suite: Advanced proficiency in Excel for data analysis and reporting, Word for documentation, and PowerPoint for presentations.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a primary CRM role, understanding how client management systems are used and how design processes integrate with broader business development efforts is beneficial.

• Familiarity with workflow automation concepts that can improve design submission, review, or approval processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the role is managerial, a practical understanding of the tools used by design teams and for project oversight is essential. Specific mention of AutoCAD, CDEs, and Power BI indicates the expected technical familiarity.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: A paramount value in the engineering and construction sector, with a strong emphasis on CDM Regulations and safe working practices.

• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and meeting client needs, building long-term relationships, and delivering value.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Valuing diverse perspectives and fostering an inclusive environment where collective effort drives success.

• Innovation & Excellence: A drive to find better solutions, challenge the status quo, and deliver high-quality, sustainable engineering.

• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding ethical standards and taking ownership of responsibilities and outcomes.

Collaboration Style:

• Expect a highly collaborative environment, requiring proactive engagement with internal design disciplines, project management, commercial teams, and external clients and contractors.

• The culture encourages open communication, constructive feedback, and a shared responsibility for project success.

• Emphasis on knowledge sharing and leveraging the collective expertise of the D&AT practice and wider AtkinsRéalis organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: AtkinsRéalis's stated values of diversity, inclusion, and "engineering a better future" are likely to be reflected in the team's operational culture.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Complex D&B Contracts: Navigating the intricacies of Design & Build procurement and delivery models, balancing client requirements with contractor execution.

• Multi-Disciplinary Team Integration: Ensuring seamless collaboration and communication across diverse engineering disciplines, potentially globally.

• Stakeholder Alignment: Managing expectations and technical input from various stakeholders, including clients, regulators, operational teams, and contractors.

• Technical Problem Solving: Addressing complex engineering challenges within the water infrastructure sector and driving innovative solutions.

• Business Development: Contributing to winning new work and expanding the D&B client base within the Water market.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Leadership & Management Training: Formal programs to enhance skills in team leadership, strategic planning, and business acumen.

• Technical Specialization: Opportunities to deepen knowledge in specific water engineering domains or D&B contract management through courses, workshops, and project experience.

• Industry Conferences & Networking: Participation in relevant industry events to stay abreast of advancements and build professional networks.

• Mentorship: Access to senior leaders for guidance and career development advice.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents opportunities to tackle significant engineering and project management challenges, which in turn provide substantial learning and development pathways for ambitious professionals.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex multi-disciplinary D&B project you led. What was your specific role, what were the key challenges, and how did you ensure successful delivery?" (Focus on your leadership, problem-solving, and D&B process knowledge).

• "How do you approach managing technical risk and quality control in a D&B environment?" (Prepare examples of your proactive strategies and methodologies).

• "How would you foster collaboration between a design team and a construction contractor on a challenging water infrastructure project?" (Demonstrate your understanding of D&B dynamics and stakeholder management).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about AtkinsRéalis and specifically this Senior Design Manager role within our Water practice?" (Research company values, recent projects, and articulate your alignment).

• "How do you ensure a diverse and inclusive team environment, and how do you leverage different perspectives for better project outcomes?" (Relate to company culture statements).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select Key Projects: Choose 1-2 impactful D&B projects from your portfolio that best align with the role's requirements.

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly articulate:

  • The Challenge: What was the client's need or the project's objective?
  • Your Role & Leadership: What were your specific responsibilities and leadership actions?
  • The D&B Approach: How did you manage the design process, risks, and stakeholders?
  • Key Technical Aspects: Highlight any innovative solutions or complex engineering issues resolved.
  • Outcomes & Impact: Quantify achievements (cost savings, schedule adherence, quality improvements, client satisfaction).

• Be Ready for Deep Dives: Prepare to answer detailed questions about your decision-making process, technical challenges, and team management strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate not just technical competence but also strategic thinking, leadership capability, and a clear understanding of the D&B project delivery model within the water sector.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior/Principal Design Manager position:

• Submit your comprehensive CV and a tailored cover letter through the AtkinsRéalis careers portal.

• Portfolio Preparation: Curate and prepare a portfolio ready for potential presentation. Focus on highlighting 1-2 key Design & Build projects in the water sector, detailing your leadership, process management, and successful outcomes.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly articulates your experience with Design & Build contracts, your Chartered Engineer status, your leadership of multi-disciplinary teams, and your specific contributions within the water infrastructure market. Use keywords from the job description.

• Company & Role Research: Thoroughly research AtkinsRéalis, its mission, values, and recent projects in the Water sector. Understand the nuances of Design & Build projects and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with the company's strategic goals.

• Interview Practice: Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions and prepare concise, impactful case study presentations for your portfolio review.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description provides insights and industry-standard assumptions for a Senior/Principal Design Manager role at AtkinsRéalis. Specific details regarding compensation, benefits, and exact interview stages should be confirmed directly with the hiring organization.