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- Tasks: Lead design processes on exciting construction projects and solve real-time technical challenges.
- Company: Respected regional Main Contractor with a collaborative culture and strong client relationships.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, car allowance, 25 days holiday, enhanced pension, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Transition from Architect to Design Manager and make a real impact on live projects.
- Qualifications: Experience in architecture or design coordination with strong stakeholder management skills.
- Other info: Enjoy a hybrid working pattern with excellent career growth potential.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Are you an Architect interested in moving into Design Management? A respected regional Main Contractor based near Hitchin is seeking a Design Manager to strengthen their delivery team. This opportunity is ideal for an Architect looking to transition into Design Management, offering a clear route into a contractor-side leadership role. The business delivers a balanced mix of education, healthcare and commercial schemes, split evenly between new-build and refurbishment, typically valued between £5m and £15m. You will usually be involved in two to three live projects at once, working closely with site teams to keep design information flowing and resolve technical challenges quickly.
About the Company
This contractor is known for its technical strength, collaborative culture and long-standing client relationships. They have a low staff turnover and have experienced steady, sustainable growth across Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and surrounding counties. Their portfolio includes education, healthcare, commercial and industrial buildings, residential schemes, community and public buildings, heritage and refurbishment projects, and public-sector frameworks. With a strong pipeline and modern working environment, they offer long-term career development and progression.
Role Overview – Design Manager (Site-Focused)
This role is ideal for someone who enjoys being embedded in live projects, supporting site teams and ensuring design information is coordinated, buildable and delivered on time. You will work across pre-construction and delivery, with a strong emphasis on site-based technical coordination and problem-solving.
Key Responsibilities
- You will lead and manage the design process on D&B projects, coordinating drawings and technical information between architects, engineers and specialist subcontractors.
- Regular site attendance is expected to help resolve design queries and technical issues.
- You will oversee buildability reviews and technical checks, track design deliverables against programme requirements, ensure timely approvals and maintain information flow to the site.
- Collaboration with pre-construction, commercial and project teams is central to the role.
Working Pattern
The working week typically includes one day from home, one to two days in the office and two days on site. Standard hours are 8.30 am to 5.00 pm with a one-hour lunch break.
Ideal Candidate
Are you an Architect looking to move into Design Management? This role is designed for you. You may currently be working as an Architect, Senior Architectural Designer or Senior Design Coordinator. You will have a strong understanding of construction drawings, detailing and design processes, and be confident working with multiple stakeholders and managing deadlines. You should enjoy being on-site and solving real-time technical challenges. Suitable backgrounds include architecture, structural engineering, consultancy, main contracting and D&B environments.
Salary & Benefits
The package includes a competitive salary, a £6,000 car allowance, fuel card and mileage, 25 days’ holiday plus Christmas shutdown, and additional holiday at 5, 7 and 10 years (up to 28 days). Benefits also include an enhanced pension, private medical cover, funded professional memberships and training, annual health checks and flu jabs, eye tests and glasses for screen users, an EV salary sacrifice scheme and regular pay reviews.
How to Apply
To apply for this Design Manager role, please contact Sally Whittingham or submit your application online.
Architect in Hitchin employer: A.D.S Construction Personnel Ltd
Contact Detail:
A.D.S Construction Personnel Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Architect in Hitchin
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry folks, especially those in design management. Attend local events or join online forums where you can chat about your passion for architecture and design management.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio that highlights your best architectural projects and any relevant experience in design management. Make sure it’s easy to access and visually appealing – first impressions count!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for interviews by role-playing common questions with a friend or mentor. Focus on how your architectural background can bring value to a design management role, especially in site-based scenarios.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities that could be perfect for you. Plus, applying directly shows your enthusiasm and commitment to joining the team.
We think you need these skills to ace Architect in Hitchin
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Design Manager role. Highlight any relevant projects you've worked on, especially those involving site coordination and technical problem-solving.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're transitioning from Architect to Design Manager. Share your passion for site-based work and how your architectural background gives you a unique perspective.
Showcase Your Collaboration Skills: Since this role involves working closely with various teams, emphasise your ability to collaborate effectively. Mention specific instances where you've successfully coordinated with architects, engineers, or site teams to resolve issues.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates!
How to prepare for a job interview at A.D.S Construction Personnel Ltd
✨Know Your Projects Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you’re familiar with the types of projects the company handles. Brush up on their recent work in education, healthcare, and commercial schemes. Being able to discuss specific projects will show your genuine interest and understanding of their operations.
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
As an Architect transitioning into Design Management, highlight your technical expertise. Be ready to discuss how you've resolved design challenges in past projects and how you can apply that experience to ensure buildability and coordination on-site.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
This role requires working closely with various teams. Prepare examples of how you’ve successfully collaborated with architects, engineers, and subcontractors in the past. Demonstrating your ability to foster teamwork will resonate well with the company’s collaborative culture.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the company’s approach to design management and site delivery. Inquire about their project pipeline or how they handle technical challenges on-site. This shows your enthusiasm for the role and helps you gauge if it’s the right fit for you.