Temporary Works Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Temporary Works Design Manager

Company: Ferrovial

Location: London, United Kingdom

Job Type: Full time

Category: Construction & Engineering Operations

Date Posted: 2026-09-11

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the design and delivery of temporary works for major infrastructure projects, specifically the HS2 track infrastructure.

• Ensure all temporary works comply with stringent safety regulations, contractual obligations, and HS2 technical standards.

• Act as the primary interface between site teams, temporary works designers, and permanent works designers.

• Manage complex project interfaces and coordinate with multi-disciplinary teams, including civil engineering, signalling, and railway systems contractors.

• Oversee procurement and logistics for the execution of temporary works designs, ensuring cost-effectiveness and efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is critical for ensuring the safety and successful execution of large-scale railway infrastructure projects. The emphasis on temporary works design within the context of HS2, a major national infrastructure initiative, signifies a high level of responsibility and technical expertise required. The role demands robust project management skills combined with deep technical knowledge in civil and structural engineering, particularly concerning temporary structures and railway environments.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Maintain overall responsibility for ensuring temporary works are conducted according to correct processes, appropriate standards, and the scheme design.

• Ensure temporary works are constructed in strict accordance with the design, relevant drawings, and specifications.

• Serve as the primary point of contact between the design team and the site team for all temporary works-related matters.

• Verify that individuals responsible for on-site temporary works management and supervision have received appropriate training and qualifications.

• Ensure subcontractors managing, controlling, and constructing temporary works possess and adhere to appropriate and adequate procedures.

• Maintain comprehensive records of training and documentation related to Temporary Works Coordinator (TWC) and Temporary Works Supervisor (TWS) appointments across the project.

• Coordinate temporary works effectively between site teams, TW designers, permanent works designers, external stakeholders, and other key interfaces.

• Ensure design competency checks are performed in accordance with CDM (Construction Design and Management) regulations.

• Participate in specific production meetings as required to facilitate smooth project progression.

• Develop and maintain detailed delivery programmes for Temporary Works design, ensuring alignment with HS2 Works Information and technical specifications.

• Coordinate closely with civil engineering teams, signalling departments, and other railway systems contractors.

• Manage internal interfaces at project boundaries to prevent conflicts and ensure seamless integration.

• Oversee the procurement and logistics necessary for the successful execution of TW designs.

• Implement CDM roles, safety inductions, and security protocols for all temporary works.

• Ensure compliance with design obligations and integrate supplier O&M manuals into project documentation for comprehensive record-keeping.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong emphasis on safety, compliance, and stakeholder management. The role requires not only technical design oversight but also rigorous process management, team coordination, and adherence to regulatory frameworks like CDM. The need to manage interfaces with multiple disciplines and external stakeholders underscores the strategic importance of this position in mitigating risks and ensuring project success.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Degree qualification in civil engineering or an equivalent.

Experience: Extensive experience in design and/or engineering management, temporary works, instrumentation and monitoring, and a proven track record of delivering large infrastructure projects, preferably in rail.

Required Skills:

• Degree in Civil Engineering or equivalent.

• Extensive experience in design and engineering management.

• Proven track record in temporary works design and execution.

• Experience with instrumentation and monitoring in construction projects.

• Demonstrated success in delivering large infrastructure projects, particularly in the rail sector.

• Strong understanding of railway technical standards and Works Information requirements.

• Ability to manage complex interfaces across multiple disciplines and teams.

• Experience of working in a cost-conscious environment, demonstrating financial acumen.

• Good people management and leadership skills.

• Proven experience in managing design teams and processes effectively.

• Thorough understanding and application of CDM regulations. Preferred Skills:

• Chartered Civil or Structural Engineer status.

• Experience working within a live railway environment.

• Understanding of High Speed rail technical standards and Works Information requirements.

• Competence in digital project management tools and Building Information Modelling (BIM) integration.

• Negotiation and stakeholder engagement skills, particularly for procurement processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of technical engineering expertise, project management acumen, and regulatory knowledge. The preference for Chartered Engineer status and rail experience suggests a need for deep domain expertise and a commitment to professional standards. The mention of digital tools and BIM integration points towards a forward-thinking approach to project delivery and a need for candidates comfortable with modern construction technologies.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Documented experience in managing temporary works design for large-scale infrastructure projects, showcasing complexity and scale.

• Case studies demonstrating successful implementation of temporary works, highlighting risk mitigation strategies and safety compliance.

• Examples of project planning and delivery programs specifically for temporary works, illustrating timeline management and resource allocation.

• Evidence of managing design interfaces and coordinating with permanent works designers, civil teams, and other stakeholders.

• Demonstrations of cost control measures and efficiency improvements implemented within temporary works projects. Process Documentation:

• Showcase well-defined processes for temporary works design submission, review, and approval cycles.

• Provide examples of risk assessment and management procedures for temporary works, including hazard identification and control measures.

• Detail methodologies for site supervision and quality assurance of temporary works construction.

• Illustrate experience with site monitoring and instrumentation strategies for critical temporary structures.

• Document experience with post-construction reviews and lessons learned for temporary works.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, a portfolio should clearly articulate the candidate's capability in managing the entire lifecycle of temporary works, from initial concept and design through to construction and demobilization. Emphasis should be placed on safety, compliance with standards (especially CDM), and effective coordination across multiple disciplines. Demonstrating experience with railway-specific temporary works and the ability to integrate BIM and digital tools will be highly advantageous.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Given the senior nature of the role (10+ years experience), the location in London, and the critical infrastructure project context (HS2), a competitive salary is expected. Based on industry benchmarks for Temporary Works Design Managers on major UK infrastructure projects, the estimated salary range is likely between £75,000 and £100,000 per annum. This estimate considers the responsibility level, technical expertise required, and the cost of living in London.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, pension contributions, and life assurance.

• Employee wellbeing initiatives, such as mental health support and wellness programs.

• Professional growth opportunities, including training, development programs, and support for further qualifications.

• Global and cross-business unit mobility, offering career advancement prospects within Ferrovial's international operations.

• Potential for involvement in other high-profile infrastructure projects.

• Use of cutting-edge productivity tools like Microsoft Copilot. Working Hours:

Standard full-time working hours are typically around 40 hours per week. However, the demands of large infrastructure projects may necessitate flexibility and occasional work outside standard hours, including evenings and weekends, to meet project deadlines and site requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on typical compensation for similar roles in the UK infrastructure sector, adjusted for London's higher cost of living and the specific demands of a project like HS2. The benefits package is inferred from the company description's emphasis on employee wellbeing and growth, aligning with industry standards for large engineering firms. Working hours are assumed to be standard full-time but with the understanding that project-driven environments often require flexibility.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction & Infrastructure Development. Ferrovial is a global leader in building and managing transport infrastructure, including highways, airports, and rail networks. The company is also involved in energy services and construction.

Company Size: Over 22,000 professionals worldwide. This large global presence indicates a structured organization with established processes and significant resources.

Founded: Ferrovial was founded in 1952, bringing a long history of experience and stability to its operations.

Team Structure:

• The operations team likely consists of specialized engineering and project management professionals focused on delivering complex infrastructure projects.

• Reporting structure would typically involve a clear hierarchy, with the Temporary Works Design Manager reporting to a Project Director or Senior Engineering Manager.

• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, requiring close interaction with site operations, permanent works design teams, HSE (Health, Safety, and Environment) departments, commercial teams, and potentially external regulatory bodies. Methodology:

• Data analysis and insights are crucial for informing design decisions, risk assessments, and project planning in temporary works.

• Workflow planning and optimization strategies are employed to ensure efficient design processes and construction sequencing.

• Automation and efficiency practices are increasingly integrated, particularly with digital tools and BIM, to streamline workflows and improve accuracy.

Company Website: https://www.ferrovial.com/en/

📝 Enhancement Note: Ferrovial's long history and global scale suggest a company culture that values expertise, robust processes, and a commitment to large-scale, impactful projects. The emphasis on innovation and sustainability, as noted in the company description, likely translates into a work environment that encourages forward-thinking solutions and responsible project execution. The mention of Microsoft Copilot indicates a commitment to leveraging technology for productivity.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior-level position within the engineering and construction operations domain. It requires significant technical expertise, extensive project management experience, and leadership capabilities. The scope of responsibility is substantial, encompassing critical safety aspects and project success for a major national infrastructure project.

Reporting Structure: The Temporary Works Design Manager will likely report to a Project Director or a Senior Engineering Manager on the HS2 project. They will manage a team of Temporary Works Coordinators (TWCs) and Temporary Works Supervisors (TWSs) and will coordinate extensively with internal Ferrovial BAM JV teams (construction, environmental, consents) and external stakeholders.

Operations Impact: The Temporary Works Design Manager has a direct and significant impact on project safety, cost, schedule, and quality. Their decisions influence the feasibility and safety of construction activities, directly affecting the overall success and timely delivery of the HS2 track infrastructure. Effective management of temporary works can prevent costly delays, accidents, and reputational damage.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in temporary works design for complex railway environments, potentially leading to roles focused on high-speed rail or other specialized infrastructure.

• Leadership: Advance into broader engineering management roles, such as Lead Design Manager or Chief Engineer, overseeing multiple projects or design disciplines.

• Project Management: Transition into full project management roles, leveraging the comprehensive understanding of project lifecycle gained from this position.

• Cross-functional Mobility: Opportunities exist within Ferrovial's global operations to work on diverse projects, potentially in different sectors like airports, highways, or energy.

• Continuous Learning: Access to training and development programs to stay abreast of the latest engineering techniques, digital tools (like BIM), and regulatory changes in the construction industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career progression path for a Temporary Works Design Manager is typically linear within specialized engineering management, with opportunities to expand into broader project leadership. Ferrovial's global presence provides a unique advantage for international career development. The emphasis on safety and technical rigor in this role builds a strong foundation for future leadership opportunities in the infrastructure sector.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is primarily office-based, supporting the HS2 Track infrastructure project. This will likely be a project office located near the construction sites, facilitating close collaboration with site teams.

Office Location(s): Euston, London, with potential for site visits to various locations along the HS2 route. The project is described as covering almost 140 miles of track between London and the West Midlands.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will be collaborative, designed for team interaction, design reviews, and coordination meetings with various project stakeholders.

• Access to necessary design software, project management tools, and potentially BIM platforms will be provided.

• Opportunities for regular site visits will be integral to the role, allowing for practical assessment of temporary works conditions and progress.

• A professional and safety-conscious environment is expected, aligning with the high standards of major infrastructure projects.

Work Schedule: While typically a 40-hour work week, the demands of major construction projects, especially those in the rail sector, often require flexibility. This may include working extended hours, evenings, or weekends to attend critical site operations, respond to urgent design queries, or meet project milestones, particularly during peak construction phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment will be dynamic and demanding, characteristic of large-scale infrastructure projects. The proximity to the project site in London and the necessity for site visits mean that candidates should be prepared for a blend of office-based and on-site work. The collaborative nature of the workspace is crucial for managing the complex interfaces inherent in this role.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and application to assess qualifications against the core requirements, with a focus on temporary works experience and rail project delivery.

• Technical Interview: In-depth discussion about your experience with temporary works design, CDM regulations, railway standards, and your approach to managing complex interfaces. Expect scenario-based questions related to design challenges, risk management, and stakeholder coordination.

• Portfolio Review: Presentation of your portfolio, focusing on specific case studies of large-scale temporary works projects. Be prepared to discuss your role, design rationale, challenges faced, solutions implemented, and the outcomes achieved, particularly regarding safety and efficiency.

• Team/Hiring Manager Interview: Assessment of your leadership style, team management capabilities, and cultural fit within the Ferrovial BAM JV. This stage may involve discussions about your approach to collaboration and problem-solving.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior project leadership to confirm suitability for the role and discuss overall project alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio by project, clearly outlining the scope, your specific responsibilities, the challenges, and the solutions. Use a consistent format for each project.

• Focus on Impact: Quantify your achievements wherever possible. Highlight improvements in safety, cost savings, schedule adherence, and efficiency gains directly attributable to your temporary works designs and management.

• CDM & Safety: Dedicate sections to demonstrating your robust understanding and application of CDM regulations and your commitment to safety in temporary works.

• Technical Depth: Showcase your technical acumen with examples of complex design solutions, particularly those involving structural integrity, ground conditions, and railway-specific constraints.

• Interface Management: Provide examples of how you have successfully managed interfaces between different engineering disciplines, site teams, and external parties.

• Digital Tools: If applicable, showcase your proficiency with BIM, design software, and project management platforms.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Prepare for questions asking how you would handle specific temporary works design challenges, interface conflicts, or safety breaches. Think about your problem-solving methodology.

• CDM Application: Be ready to discuss how you apply CDM principles in practice to ensure compliance and safety throughout the temporary works lifecycle.

• Stakeholder Communication: Practice articulating technical concepts clearly and concisely for both technical and non-technical audiences, demonstrating your ability to influence and gain buy-in.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to thoroughly assess technical expertise, practical experience, and leadership potential. A well-prepared portfolio that clearly demonstrates achievements in temporary works design, safety management, and project delivery is crucial. Candidates should anticipate rigorous questioning on CDM regulations and their ability to manage complex, multi-stakeholder environments.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: AutoCAD, Civil 3D, or similar for design drafting and visualization.

• BIM Software: Revit, Navisworks, or Bentley Systems products for integrated design, coordination, and clash detection.

• Project Management Software: Primavera P6, Microsoft Project, or similar for detailed programme development and tracking of temporary works design delivery.

• Analysis Software: Structural analysis software (e.g., STAAD.Pro, SAP2000, LUSAS) for temporary structure design and verification.

• Collaboration Platforms: Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, or similar for team communication and document sharing.

• Microsoft Copilot: As mentioned in the company description, this AI assistant will likely be utilized for enhancing productivity in tasks such as document drafting, data analysis, and report generation.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Tools for tracking design progress against programme.

• Software for monitoring construction site conditions and instrumentation data.

• Reporting tools for HSE compliance, quality assurance, and project status updates. CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how project data is managed and flows through project management systems is key.

• Automation within design workflows (e.g., parametric design, script-based analysis) may be leveraged.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in industry-standard CAD and BIM software is essential. The role requires a strong understanding of project scheduling tools and structural analysis software. Familiarity with collaboration platforms and an openness to utilizing AI-driven productivity tools like Microsoft Copilot will be advantageous for efficiency and modern project execution.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: A paramount commitment to health, safety, and environmental protection in all aspects of temporary works design and execution. This is non-negotiable in the construction industry, especially on major projects.

• Excellence and Quality: A dedication to delivering high-quality engineering solutions that meet or exceed project specifications and client expectations.

• Innovation: Encouraging creative problem-solving and the adoption of new technologies and methodologies to improve efficiency and safety in temporary works.

• Collaboration: Fostering a team-oriented environment where open communication and mutual support are encouraged across all disciplines and stakeholders.

• Integrity: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all business dealings and project execution.

• Efficiency: A focus on delivering projects on time and within budget through effective planning, resource management, and process optimization.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The role necessitates seamless collaboration with site teams, permanent works designers, HSE, commercial, and consenting departments to ensure integrated project delivery.

• Proactive Communication: A culture of proactive communication, regular meetings, and clear reporting to keep all stakeholders informed and aligned on temporary works progress and any arising issues.

• Feedback Exchange: Encouraging an environment where constructive feedback on designs and construction methods is welcomed and acted upon to drive continuous improvement.

• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting the sharing of lessons learned and best practices related to temporary works across project teams and the wider organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: Ferrovial's emphasis on innovation, collaboration, and inclusivity, coupled with the inherent demands of the construction industry, suggests a culture that is both professional and team-focused. The core values likely revolve around safety, quality, and delivering complex projects effectively. Candidates should be prepared to engage in a highly collaborative environment where technical expertise is valued alongside strong interpersonal and communication skills.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complexity of Interfaces: Managing the intricate web of interfaces between temporary works, permanent works, civil engineering, and other railway systems contractors on a project as large as HS2.

• Dynamic Site Conditions: Adapting designs and plans to unforeseen ground conditions or changes in construction sequencing on a live, extensive construction site.

• Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring strict adherence to evolving CDM regulations and HS2's specific technical standards, which can be demanding.

• Cost and Schedule Pressures: Delivering high-quality, safe temporary works designs within tight project budgets and demanding construction schedules.

• Stakeholder Alignment: Navigating the diverse interests and requirements of multiple stakeholders, including clients, joint venture partners, subcontractors, and regulatory bodies.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Training: Access to advanced training in temporary works design, railway engineering, and relevant software.

• Industry Conferences: Opportunities to attend leading industry events and conferences to stay current with best practices and emerging technologies in civil engineering and temporary works.

• Mentorship Programs: Potential participation in formal or informal mentorship programs within Ferrovial, guided by experienced senior engineers and project leaders.

• Leadership Development: Access to leadership training and development programs designed to enhance management and strategic planning skills for future senior roles.

• Cross-Project Exposure: Gaining experience across different phases of major projects and potentially on various types of infrastructure, broadening professional expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical of major infrastructure projects and offer significant opportunities for professional development. Successfully navigating these challenges will provide invaluable experience in high-pressure, complex environments. The growth opportunities are substantial, especially within a global organization like Ferrovial, offering clear pathways for career advancement and skill enhancement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex temporary works design challenge you faced on a large infrastructure project. How did you approach it, what was your solution, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on problem-solving, technical detail, and impact).

• "How do you ensure compliance with CDM regulations throughout the temporary works lifecycle, from design to construction oversight?" (Demonstrate understanding of regulatory frameworks and practical application).

• "Imagine a conflict arises between the temporary works design requirements and the permanent works design. How would you facilitate a resolution?" (Assess stakeholder management and collaborative problem-solving skills).

• "Walk me through your process for managing the interfaces between temporary works designers, site teams, and other specialist contractors on a major railway project." (Highlight coordination strategies and communication protocols). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Ferrovial's approach to safety and innovation in construction?" (Show research into company values and operational philosophy).

• "How would you contribute to Ferrovial's culture of collaboration and excellence in this role?" (Align your working style with company values).

• "How do you prioritize tasks and manage your workload when facing multiple urgent demands on a large project?" (Assess organizational and time management skills). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Conciseness: Focus on 2-3 key projects that best exemplify your capabilities in temporary works design for large infrastructure/rail.

• Visuals: Use clear diagrams, photos, and simplified drawings to illustrate complex designs and site conditions.

• Storytelling: Frame each project as a narrative: the challenge, your approach, the solution, and the quantifiable results (safety, cost, schedule).

• Technical Justification: Be prepared to explain the engineering principles behind your designs and the rationale for specific choices.

• CDM Integration: Explicitly detail how CDM principles were embedded in your design and management processes for each project.

• Interactive Q&A: Be ready for detailed questions about your portfolio and invite discussion to demonstrate your expertise and engagement.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on articulating your experience with concrete examples, demonstrating a deep understanding of temporary works principles, CDM regulations, and project management in a high-stakes environment. A well-prepared and visually engaging portfolio is critical for showcasing your practical skills and achievements.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Temporary Works Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided Workday link on the Ferrovial Career Site.

• Curate Your CV: Tailor your resume to prominently feature your experience in temporary works design, large-scale infrastructure projects, rail environments, and CDM compliance. Use keywords from the job description.

• Develop Your Portfolio: Assemble a concise portfolio showcasing 2-3 key temporary works projects. Include project scope, your role, design challenges, solutions, safety measures (CDM focus), and quantifiable outcomes. Prepare a brief presentation to walk through it.

• Prepare for Technical Questions: Review your knowledge of temporary works design principles, structural analysis, railway standards, and CDM regulations. Practice answering scenario-based questions.

• Research Ferrovial: Understand the company's values, recent projects (especially HS2 involvement), and commitment to safety and innovation. Prepare to discuss how you align with their culture.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.