Temporary Works Design Manager

BAM Nuttall
Full-timeBirmingham, United Kingdom

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Temporary Works Design Manager

Company: BAM Nuttall

Location: Birmingham, England, United Kingdom

Job Type: Permanent, Full-Time

Category: Engineering & Construction Operations

Date Posted: 2026-06-10T00:00:00

Experience Level: 10+ years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

  • Lead the design and execution of complex temporary works, including railheads and associated infrastructure, for the high-profile HS2 Track project.

  • Ensure rigorous adherence to safety regulations, contractual requirements, and project-specific standards through effective engineering management.

  • Drive seamless coordination and integration between various internal departments (construction, environmental, consents) and external stakeholders, including permanent works designers and suppliers.

  • Manage and mentor on-site teams, ensuring competency and adherence to best practices in temporary works construction and supervision.

  • Act as the primary liaison between design teams and site personnel for all temporary works-related matters.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Temporary Works Design Manager," the responsibilities clearly indicate a strong emphasis on project execution, site coordination, and team management, extending beyond pure design into comprehensive project delivery leadership within the temporary works domain. This suggests a role that bridges the gap between design conception and on-site realization, requiring a blend of technical expertise and operational oversight.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

  • Overall Temporary Works Oversight: Take ultimate responsibility for ensuring all temporary works are executed according to correct processes, appropriate standards, and the approved scheme design.

  • Construction Compliance: Ensure the construction of temporary works accurately reflects the design, relevant drawings, and specifications.

  • Design & Site Liaison: Serve as the primary point of contact between designers and the site team for all temporary works matters, facilitating clear communication and issue resolution.

  • Team Training & Competency: Ensure all personnel responsible for on-site temporary works management and supervision have received adequate and appropriate training.

  • Subcontractor Management: Oversee and ensure that subcontractors managing, controlling, and constructing temporary works adhere to appropriate and adequate procedures.

  • Record Keeping: Maintain and upkeep all training records and records of Temporary Works Coordinator (TWC) and Temporary Works Supervisor (TWS) appointments within the project.

  • Interface Coordination: Coordinate temporary works effectively between site teams, temporary works designers, permanent works designers, external stakeholders, and other key interfaces to prevent conflicts and ensure smooth integration.

  • Design Competency Verification: Ensure design competency checks are conducted in strict accordance with CDM Regulations 2015.

  • Production Meeting Participation: Actively participate in specific production meetings as required to provide input and ensure alignment on temporary works.

  • Project-Specific Delivery: Lead the design and delivery of temporary railheads and all associated temporary works required for designated sections of Lot 1 of the HS2 Track infrastructure project.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities listed are comprehensive and cover the full lifecycle of temporary works, from design compliance and coordination to on-site execution and regulatory adherence. The emphasis on CDM 2015 and subcontractor management highlights the critical safety and contractual aspects of this role within a major infrastructure project.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

  • Degree qualification in Civil Engineering or an equivalent discipline. Experience:

  • Extensive experience in design and/or engineering management, specifically within temporary works.

  • Proven track record of successful delivery of large-scale infrastructure projects.

  • Significant experience in instrumentation and monitoring related to construction projects. Required Skills:

  • Temporary Works Design & Management: Deep understanding of temporary works principles, design processes, and construction methodologies.

  • Engineering Management: Proven ability to manage engineering activities, teams, and projects effectively.

  • Infrastructure Project Delivery: Demonstrated success in delivering complex infrastructure projects from inception to completion.

  • CDM Regulations 2015: Thorough knowledge and practical application of the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015.

  • Stakeholder Coordination: Excellent ability to manage interfaces and coordinate with diverse internal and external stakeholders.

  • Civil Engineering Principles: Strong foundation in civil engineering theory and practice.

  • Contractual Compliance: Ability to ensure all works adhere to contractual obligations and project specifications.

Preferred Skills:

  • Chartered Engineer: Chartered Civil or Structural Engineer status (CEng MICE, CEng MIStructE, or equivalent).

  • Railway Environment Experience: Experience working within a railway construction environment, understanding its unique challenges and standards.

  • Instrumentation & Monitoring: Specific expertise in the application and management of instrumentation and monitoring systems for construction projects.

  • Structural Engineering: Solid understanding of structural engineering principles as they apply to temporary works.

📝 Enhancement Note: The preference for Chartered Engineer status and railway environment experience indicates the seniority and specialized nature of this role. The extensive experience requirement (10+ years) underscores the need for a seasoned professional capable of handling the complexities of a project like HS2.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

  • Temporary Works Design Case Studies: Showcase examples of complex temporary works designs you have managed or overseen, detailing the challenges, solutions, and outcomes. Include documentation for railheads, falsework, formwork, or other critical temporary structures.

  • Project Delivery Documentation: Provide evidence of your involvement in the successful delivery of large infrastructure projects, highlighting your specific role in managing engineering and construction phases.

  • Process Optimization Examples: Demonstrate instances where you have improved temporary works processes, safety protocols, or coordination mechanisms, leading to efficiency gains or risk reduction.

  • Regulatory Compliance Evidence: Include examples of how you have ensured compliance with regulations such as CDM 2015, demonstrating robust safety management systems and design competency checks.

Process Documentation:

  • Workflow Design & Optimization: Document your approach to designing and optimizing temporary works workflows, ensuring clear roles, responsibilities, and communication channels between design and site teams.

  • Implementation & Automation: Provide examples of how you have managed the implementation of temporary works designs on-site, including the use of technology or specific construction techniques to enhance efficiency and safety.

  • Measurement & Performance Analysis: Detail how you track and analyze the performance of temporary works, including monitoring data, quality control reports, and incident reports, to ensure ongoing compliance and identify areas for improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role of this seniority and in a sector as safety-critical as infrastructure, a robust portfolio demonstrating practical application of temporary works design, project management, and regulatory compliance is essential. Emphasizing case studies with clear metrics on safety, cost, and schedule will be highly advantageous.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

  • Estimate: £70,000 - £95,000 per annum.

  • Rationale: This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for Senior/Lead Engineering Management roles in major infrastructure projects within the UK, considering the specific requirements for temporary works expertise, extensive experience (10+ years), and the demanding nature of the HS2 project. Factors include the location (Birmingham), the complexity of the role, and the high demand for specialized engineering talent in the current market. Salary will be commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Benefits:

  • Competitive salary package.

  • Comprehensive family-friendly policies to support work-life balance.

  • Company car, car allowance, or travel allowance, reflecting the nature of the role.

  • Generous 8% matched pension contributions, supporting long-term financial planning.

  • Private healthcare for employee and potentially dependents, ensuring access to quality medical care.

  • Life assurance policy, providing financial security for beneficiaries.

  • 26 days of annual holiday, plus additional wellbeing and volunteering days, promoting rest and community engagement.

  • 2 dedicated wellbeing days per year.

  • 1 dedicated volunteering day per year.

  • Significant opportunities for personal and professional development, including training and career advancement. Working Hours:

  • Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week.

  • Flexibility may be required due to the nature of large-scale infrastructure projects, potentially involving occasional extended hours or weekend work to meet project deadlines, particularly during critical construction phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is an estimation based on typical compensation for similar roles in the UK construction and infrastructure sector. The benefits package is extensive, reflecting BAM Nuttall's commitment to employee well-being and professional growth. The working hours note the standard expectation while acknowledging the project-driven demands.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Civil Engineering & Infrastructure Construction. BAM Nuttall is a leading civil engineering contractor in the UK, specializing in complex infrastructure projects across various sectors including rail, highways, energy, and water. They are part of the global Royal BAM Group.

Company Size: Large. BAM Nuttall is a significant player in the UK construction market, employing thousands of individuals. This scale offers opportunities for robust organizational support, specialized teams, and career progression.

Founded: BAM Nuttall's heritage dates back over a century, with its current form evolving through mergers and acquisitions. This long history signifies stability, deep industry expertise, and established processes.

Team Structure:

  • Project-Specific Teams: You will be part of a dedicated project team for the HS2 Track infrastructure project, working within the Ferrovial Bam JV.

  • Reporting Hierarchy: The role reports into senior project management or engineering leadership within the JV. You will manage a team of Temporary Works Coordinators (TWCs) and Temporary Works Supervisors (TWSs), and potentially design engineers.

  • Cross-Functional Collaboration: This role demands extensive collaboration with various internal departments (construction, safety, environmental, commercial, planning) and external entities (client representatives, permanent works designers, subcontractors, regulatory bodies).

Methodology:

  • Safety-First Approach: BAM Nuttall emphasizes a rigorous safety culture, with strict adherence to health, safety, and environmental (HSE) standards being paramount.

  • Quality Management: Robust quality management systems are in place to ensure all works meet stringent project specifications and industry best practices.

  • Integrated Project Delivery: The company promotes collaborative working methods, encouraging early engagement and integrated planning across all project disciplines.

  • Data-Driven Decision Making: Emphasis on using data from monitoring, site reports, and design analysis to inform decisions and manage risks effectively.

Company Website: https://www.bamcareers.com/global/en

📝 Enhancement Note: The context of working within the Ferrovial Bam JV for the HS2 project is crucial. This implies a large, complex, and highly regulated project environment where collaboration, adherence to strict standards, and effective management of interfaces are critical success factors.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior Management / Lead Specialist. This role is positioned at a senior level, requiring significant expertise and responsibility for a critical aspect of a major project. It signifies a transition from individual contributor or team lead to a key management role with strategic oversight.

Reporting Structure: You will report to senior project leadership within the JV, likely a Project Director, Engineering Director, or similar. You will be responsible for managing and guiding the temporary works team, including TWCs and TWSs, and potentially junior engineers.

Operations Impact: Your work will directly influence the safety, efficiency, and successful delivery of the HS2 Track infrastructure project. Effective temporary works design and management are foundational to the safe and timely execution of the permanent works, impacting project timelines, costs, and overall risk profile.

Growth Opportunities:

  • Leadership Development: Progression to higher management roles within BAM Nuttall or the JV, such as Head of Temporary Works, Senior Project Manager, or Engineering Director on future mega-projects.

  • Specialization Enhancement: Deepening expertise in specific areas of temporary works, complex temporary structures, or advanced monitoring techniques, becoming a recognized subject matter expert.

  • Cross-Sector Experience: Gaining exposure to different types of infrastructure projects within BAM Nuttall's portfolio, broadening your experience and skill set.

  • Professional Accreditation: Support for maintaining and enhancing professional qualifications, such as progressing towards or maintaining Chartered status and engaging with professional bodies.

  • Mentorship Programs: Opportunities to mentor junior engineers and TWCs, developing leadership and coaching skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a significant step up in responsibility and impact, providing a platform for substantial career growth within a leading infrastructure company and on one of the UK's most ambitious projects. The emphasis is on developing leadership capabilities alongside technical mastery.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based at the Euston office in London for the initial design phase, with a mention of a Birmingham (Snow Hill office) location for the project itself, suggesting potential flexibility or a need to be near different project hubs. This indicates a primary office-based role supporting site operations.

Office Location(s):

  • Initial Design Phase: London (Euston office).

  • Project Execution: Birmingham (Snow Hill office) is mentioned as the project location. Candidates are expected to live within a reasonable commuting distance of the work location (likely Birmingham).

  • Accessibility: Specific details on office accessibility (transport links, parking) would need to be confirmed directly with the hiring team, but major city offices generally have good public transport links.

Workspace Context:

  • Collaborative Hub: The office environment will likely foster collaboration, with shared workspaces, meeting rooms, and facilities for project team meetings and discussions.

  • Tools & Technology: Access to necessary design software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit, structural analysis tools), project management software, and communication platforms will be provided.

  • Site Interface: While office-based, frequent site visits and close interaction with site teams (likely in Birmingham or surrounding areas) will be a core part of the role. This requires adaptability between office and site environments.

Work Schedule:

  • Standard 40-hour work week, typically Monday to Friday.

  • Project demands may necessitate flexibility, with potential for extended hours or weekend work during critical phases to ensure project milestones are met and safety is maintained.

📝 Enhancement Note: The dual location mention (London for design, Birmingham for project) is important. Candidates should clarify their primary location expectation. The role balances office-based design coordination with essential on-site presence and interaction.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

  • Initial Screening: A review of your CV and application by the recruitment team to assess qualifications and experience against the role requirements.

  • Hiring Manager Interview: Typically with Jonathan Schulte (Recruitment Manager) and potentially the Project Director or Lead Engineer. Focus on your experience, technical knowledge, and suitability for the role.

  • Technical Assessment/Case Study: You may be asked to present a temporary works design challenge or a past project case study, demonstrating your problem-solving skills, technical approach, and communication abilities. This is where your portfolio will be critical.

  • Team/Cultural Fit Interview: Meeting with other key members of the project team or senior management to assess your fit within the company culture and team dynamics.

  • Final Offer: Following successful interviews and assessments.

Portfolio Review Tips:

  • Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your most impactful temporary works projects.

Focus on projects that demonstrate complexity, innovation, and successful outcomes relevant to rail infrastructure.

  • Structure Your Case Studies: For each project, clearly outline:

    • The Challenge: The specific temporary works problem you addressed.
    • Your Role: Your exact responsibilities and contributions.
    • The Solution: The design and construction approach taken.
    • Key Considerations: How you managed safety, interfaces, and regulations (especially CDM 2015).
    • The Outcome: Quantifiable results (e.g., safety record, cost savings, schedule adherence, efficiency improvements).
  • Highlight Technical Expertise: Showcase your understanding of structural analysis, geotechnical considerations, and construction methods relevant to temporary works.

  • Demonstrate Management Skills: Include examples of how you managed teams, coordinated stakeholders, and resolved issues.

  • Quantify Impact: Use numbers and data wherever possible to demonstrate the value you delivered.

  • Prepare for Presentation: Be ready to walk through your portfolio, explaining your contributions and decision-making processes clearly and concisely.

Challenge Preparation:

  • CDM Regulations: Be prepared to discuss your practical application of CDM 2015, including duties of designers, principal designers, and contractors.

  • Temporary Works Principles: Review common temporary works types (e.g., falsework, formwork, propping, excavation support, access scaffolding) and their design considerations.

  • Risk Management: Understand how to identify, assess, and mitigate risks associated with temporary works.

  • Interface Management: Think about common interfaces in rail projects (e.g., with permanent works, existing structures, utilities, operational railway) and how to manage them.

  • HS2 Specifics: Research general requirements or challenges associated with HS2 projects, if publicly available.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio review and potential technical assessments highlights the practical, experience-driven nature of this role. Candidates should be prepared to go beyond theoretical knowledge and demonstrate past successes and problem-solving capabilities.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

  • CAD Software: Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, or similar CAD platforms for reviewing and potentially contributing to design documentation.

  • Structural Analysis Software: Familiarity with industry-standard structural analysis and design software (e.g., STAAD.Pro, LUSAS, MIDAS Civil, or similar) for temporary works calculations and verification.

  • Project Management Software: Experience with tools like Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or similar for planning, scheduling, and tracking project progress.

  • BIM Software: Familiarity with Building Information Modelling (BIM) tools and workflows, increasingly important in large infrastructure projects.

  • Document Management Systems: Experience with platforms like Aconex, BIM 360, or similar for managing project documentation and collaboration.

Analytics & Reporting:

  • Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret data from monitoring systems, site reports, and performance metrics.

  • Reporting Software: Proficiency in generating clear, concise reports using Microsoft Office Suite (Excel for data analysis, Word for reports, PowerPoint for presentations).

  • Dashboarding Tools: Familiarity with tools like Power BI or Tableau for visualizing project performance, safety metrics, and key performance indicators (KPIs).

CRM & Automation:

  • Collaboration Platforms: Use of platforms like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for daily communication and team collaboration.

  • GIS Software: Basic understanding or familiarity with Geographic Information System (GIS) tools may be beneficial for understanding site context and environmental constraints.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific software is not listed, the nature of the role and industry dictates a need for proficiency in standard engineering design, analysis, project management, and collaborative tools. The ability to interpret data from monitoring systems is specifically highlighted as important.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

  • Safety First: Unwavering commitment to health, safety, and environmental (HSE) standards; prioritizing the well-being of all personnel and the public.

  • Integrity & Accountability: Operating with honesty, transparency, and taking ownership of responsibilities and outcomes.

  • Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a cooperative environment where diverse teams work together effectively towards common project goals.

  • Innovation & Continuous Improvement: Encouraging new ideas and seeking opportunities to enhance processes, efficiency, and project delivery methods.

  • Excellence: Striving for the highest standards in all aspects of work, from design to execution and client satisfaction.

Collaboration Style:

  • Proactive & Integrated: Encouraging early engagement and continuous communication between design, construction, and support functions to ensure alignment and resolve issues swiftly.

  • Open Communication: Fostering an environment where concerns can be raised freely and feedback is actively sought and given.

  • Cross-Functional Partnership: Working closely with other disciplines such as permanent works designers, site engineers, environmental advisors, and commercial teams to achieve integrated project success.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: BAM Nuttall, as part of the Royal BAM Group, likely adheres to corporate values emphasizing sustainability, people, and innovation. The "Safety First" culture is particularly critical in this role and industry.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

  • Complexity of HS2 Project: Navigating the intricate technical requirements, interfaces, and scale of a national infrastructure project like HS2.

  • Managing Multiple Interfaces: Effectively coordinating between numerous internal departments, external stakeholders, and diverse subcontractors, each with their own priorities.

  • Ensuring Safety Compliance: Maintaining the highest safety standards in a high-risk environment, particularly with temporary works, which are inherently temporary and subject to change.

  • Dynamic Project Environment: Adapting to evolving project plans, site conditions, and client requirements in a large-scale, long-term project.

  • Balancing Design and Site Demands: Ensuring temporary works designs are practical, constructible, and meet site-specific needs while adhering to strict timelines.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

  • Advanced Temporary Works Techniques: Gaining exposure to cutting-edge temporary works solutions and technologies.

  • Large-Scale Project Management: Developing skills in managing complex projects with multi-billion-pound budgets and extensive timelines.

  • Leadership & Mentorship: Honing leadership abilities through managing a team and potentially mentoring junior staff.

  • Professional Development: Opportunities for further training, certifications, and participation in industry forums to stay abreast of best practices and regulatory changes.

  • Sector Specialization: Deepening expertise within the rail infrastructure sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges typical of mega-projects, which are also excellent platforms for professional growth and development, providing invaluable experience for future career advancement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

  • "Describe a complex temporary works design challenge you've faced on a major infrastructure project. How did you approach the design, manage interfaces, ensure safety, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on demonstrating your process, problem-solving, and results.)

  • "How do you ensure compliance with CDM Regulations 2015 throughout the temporary works lifecycle, from design to construction?" (Prepare to discuss specific duties, risk management, and documentation.)

  • "Walk me through your process for coordinating temporary works with permanent works designers, site teams, and external stakeholders. How do you manage conflicting priorities?" (Highlight your communication and interface management skills.) Company & Culture Questions:

  • "What do you know about BAM Nuttall and the HS2 project, and why are you interested in this specific role?" (Research their recent projects, values, and the significance of HS2.)

  • "How do you foster a 'Safety First' culture within your team, especially when dealing with temporary works?" (Discuss your leadership approach and specific initiatives.)

  • "Describe a time you had to manage a difficult stakeholder or subcontractor. How did you approach the situation?" (Focus on your conflict resolution and negotiation skills.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

  • Be Concise and Focused: For each project, clearly articulate the challenge, your role, the solution, and the quantifiable results.

  • Highlight Key Deliverables: Emphasize your contributions to design integrity, safety management, and project execution.

  • Demonstrate Regulatory Knowledge: Show how you applied CDM 2015 and other relevant standards.

  • Quantify Impact: Use metrics (e.g., reduction in design iterations, safety incident rates, schedule adherence) to prove your value.

  • Prepare for Q&A: Anticipate questions about your decision-making process, risk mitigation strategies, and technical choices.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be looking for a blend of technical expertise, strong leadership, a deep understanding of safety regulations, and effective stakeholder management. Your ability to articulate your experience through concrete examples and a well-structured portfolio will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Temporary Works Design Manager position:

  • Submit Your Application: Complete the online application form via the BAM Careers portal.

  • Tailor Your CV: Ensure your CV clearly highlights your extensive experience in temporary works design, engineering management, large infrastructure project delivery, and specific knowledge of CDM Regulations 2015. Use keywords from the job description.

  • Prepare Your Portfolio: Compile a comprehensive portfolio showcasing your most relevant temporary works projects. Focus on case studies demonstrating design complexity, safety management, stakeholder coordination, and successful project outcomes, particularly in rail or similar infrastructure environments.

  • Craft a Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that addresses your qualifications, enthusiasm for the HS2 project, and why you are a strong fit for BAM Nuttall's culture and the specific demands of this role. Highlight your experience with large JV projects if applicable.

  • Research BAM Nuttall & HS2: Familiarize yourself with BAM Nuttall's capabilities, values, and recent projects. Understand the scope and significance of the HS2 project and the Ferrovial Bam JV's role.

⚠️ 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.

Application Requirements

Requires a degree in civil engineering and extensive experience in temporary works and large infrastructure projects. Chartered Civil or Structural Engineer status and experience in railway environments are preferred.