Pre-Construction Electrical Design Manager

Job Spec- Pre-Construction Electrical Design Manager

Department: Electrical Design & Estimating

Line Manager: Electrical Director

Location: Northwest

About:

Our client delivers integrated electrical engineering solutions across both low voltage (LV) and high-voltage (HV) infrastructure, supporting industrial, commercial, public sector, retail, and leisure clients throughout the UK. Combining nearly 30 years of LV expertise with specialist HV capabilities, the group provides a complete end-to-end service - from initial design and installation through to maintenance, upgrades, and ongoing lifecycle support. Within the Low Voltage divisions, our client delivers comprehensive mechanical and electrical (M&E) solutions for buildings and infrastructure projects of all sizes, ranging from small-scale installations to multi million-pound turnkey design and build schemes. Operating across the Northwest of England, Cumbria, and Southern Scotland, the business has built a strong reputation for delivering safe, efficient, and reliable engineering services, backed by accreditations including NICEIC, Gas Safe, CHAS, and SafeContractor. They are a values-driven organisation committed to delivering high-quality work for their customers while making a positive impact on the world around them. Their approach is built on professionalism, reliability, openness, and humility ensuring they are not only competent in what they do, but also approachable, dependable, and focused on the needs of those they serve. Their purpose is to inspire others through the work they do and the values they live by, acting as a force for good in our industry and beyond. They prioritise the safety and wellbeing of their people and partners, uphold strong governance standards, and strive to build trust in every interaction. They are equally committed to supporting society and the environment creating opportunities for career starters and changers to develop and thrive, while working towards becoming a carbon negative organisation through the impact they deliver for our customers.

Job opportunity:

The Pre-Construction Electrical Design Manager leads electrical design activities during early project stages, ensuring solutions are technically sound, commercially viable, and aligned with client requirements. The role supports bid and tender processes, provides technical oversight, and contributes to effective project set-up. It includes day-to-day oversight of a small team of estimators/quoters, ensuring consistent and high-quality pre-construction outputs.

Working closely with internal teams, clients, and external stakeholders, the role integrates design, cost, and programme considerations. It ensures that designs are practical, compliant, and optimised for construction, while maintaining a strong focus on safety, risk management, and value engineering throughout the pre-construction phase.

Key activities and responsibilities

• Review tender documentation, specifications, and client requirements to identify risks, opportunities, and technical strategies

• Support preparation of technical submissions and contribute to bid and tender responses

• Lead and coordinate electrical design activities across multi-disciplinary teams

• Provide day-to-day oversight and support to a small team of estimators/quoters, ensuring consistency and quality in outputs

• Ensure designs are safe, compliant, practical, and aligned with scope, programme, and budget

• Oversee development of electrical schematics, layouts, and technical documentation • Conduct buildability reviews and drive value engineering to optimise cost and performance

• Ensure appropriate selection of equipment and systems based on project and site requirements

• Collaborate with estimators to support accurate pricing of electrical packages

• Contribute to pre-construction cost planning, budgeting, and programme development • Ensure compliance with relevant regulations, including CDM and current electrical standards

• Maintain and manage project risk registers and support risk mitigation activities

• Engage with clients, consultants, and supply chain partners to support successful project outcomes

About you:

• Extensive experience within electrical or M&E building services, typically from design management, estimating, or senior engineering roles

• Strong technical knowledge of LV electrical systems, with some exposure to HV systems and mechanical building services considered beneficial

• Experience of supporting or managing estimating/quoting functions or small technical teams

• Proficient in AutoCAD with working knowledge of BIM environments desirable

• Experience using project management and estimating software

• Strong commercial awareness with the ability to balance cost, quality, and risk

• Effective written communication skills, particularly in technical and bid documentation

• Confident in client-facing situations, including presentations and technical discussions • Skilled in negotiation with suppliers and subcontractors

• HND or HNC in Electrical Engineering or a related discipline

• Relevant Health & Safety certifications such as SMSTS, IOSH, or NEBOSH

Equal opportunities:

We are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion, and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences. We believe everyone should have the opportunity to succeed and thrive. We believe that a diverse workforce brings valuable perspectives and strengthens our organisation. We are dedicated to creating an inclusive environment where everyone is treated with dignity and respect, and where individual differences are recognised and valued. We actively encourage applications from individuals at different stages of their careers, including those seeking apprenticeships, early career opportunities, or a change in career direction. We are committed to making our recruitment processes accessible and will provide reasonable adjustments where required. If you need any support or adjustments during the application process, please let us know
Only candidates based in UK and eligible to work in UK are allowed