Design Manager

Reporting To: Technical Director / Head of Engineering

Role Summary:
We are seeking an experienced and technically proficient Design Manager to lead the technical design function for complex mechanical and MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) systems. This role requires a strategic leader who can oversee projects from concept through delivery, ensuring design excellence, technical compliance, and client satisfaction. The ideal candidate will be a hands-on technical authority with strong managerial skills, capable of guiding design teams and driving innovation in project execution.

Key Responsibilities:

• Technical Leadership & Design Oversight: Provide expert technical direction and leadership on mechanical/MEP design projects. Review and approve critical design calculations, technical drawings, specifications, and tender documentation to ensure accuracy, quality, and compliance with standards.
• Project Delivery Management: Lead and manage the technical design phase of multiple projects simultaneously, from initial concept through to final delivery, ensuring alignment with project goals, timelines, and budgets.
• Team Management & Mentorship: Supervise, mentor, and develop a team of senior and junior engineers and designers. Foster a culture of technical excellence, continuous learning, and professional growth within the team.
• Stakeholder Coordination: Serve as the primary technical point of contact, coordinating effectively with internal project teams, external consultants, clients, and contractors to ensure seamless integration of design deliverables.
• Strategic & Process Contribution: Support senior management in implementing strategic initiatives, improving design processes, and driving innovation within the technical design function.
• Client & Business Development Support: Maintain strong client relationships by ensuring high-quality design delivery and client satisfaction. Contribute technical expertise to business development efforts, including tendering and proposal preparation.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Education: Bachelors or Masters degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field from an accredited institution.
• Experience: Minimum of 10-15 years of progressive experience in mechanical/MEP engineering design, with a significant portion in a leadership or management role overseeing technical design projects. A proven track record in managing complex design projects from start to finish is essential.
• Professional Certification: Professional engineering registration (e.g., P.E., C.Eng., or equivalent) is required. Registration with the local professional engineering body (where applicable) is highly preferred.
• Technical Proficiency: Extensive experience and proficiency in Building Information Modelling (BIM) processes and software. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with meticulous attention to detail.
• Preferred Experience: Candidates with prior multidisciplinary experience in MEP coordination or System Interface Coordination on large-scale infrastructure projects (e.g., transportation, mission-critical facilities) will be given strong preference.

Skills & Competencies:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical concepts clearly.
• Demonstrated strong leadership and team management abilities.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong client relationship management and stakeholder engagement skills.