We’re the UK's largest ports operator with a network of 21 ports around Britain. We handle around one quarter of the UK's seaborne trade and contribute £7.5 billion to our economy every year.
It’s a story we’re proud of but it doesn’t end there. We’re transforming our business and embracing the future.
We offer a vast range of roles spanning the UK, all rooted in a culture that welcomes diversity, fosters talent, encourages internal movement and progression, and places safety as our number one priority.
Why should you work for ABP?
- Have the chance to make a difference in a business critical to UK trade.
- Work within an exciting, innovative, growing business.
- You can thrive in an inclusive environment where every individual can be themselves and feel respected.
- Receive a competitive salary and benefits package.
- Get support for training, personal development, and further education.
- Benefit from support and engagement through dedicated management and leadership.
We are seeking an Assistant Design & Engineering Manager to support the technical delivery of Major Capital Projects across our UK portfolio. Reporting into the Group Engineering & Design Lead, you will support and manage the design and engineering workstream across several major projects, working closely with regional teams to adapt solutions to local operating environments.
You will join at a pivotal moment for ABP Southampton, where a major multi‑year RoRo port expansion is progressing through a Development Consent Order. This is a significant, several‑year programme, involving extensive design studies, environmental assessments and development work.
Accountabilities
- Support the technical development and delivery of major capital projects.
- Manage and support scope definition and delivery of technical work packages.
- Coordinate and contribute to design and constructability reviews.
- Review consultant and contractor outputs for safety, quality and compliance.
- Support tendering activities and contract awards.
- Identify and manage technical risks and opportunities.
- Support in monitoring consultant and contractor performance.
- Coordinate stakeholders and manage technical requirements.
- Report on progress, risks and key decisions.
About You
- Experience supporting the technical delivery of civil infrastructure projects, with an ideal minimum of 3–5 years’ experience.
- Degree (or equivalent) in Engineering
- Strong organisational skills, attention to detail and ability to work independently.
- Engineering design experience in a consultancy or contracting environment.
- Knowledge of drawing and standards production and good understanding of design processes.
- Experience in client‑side environments, or close collaboration with client teams, would be advantageous.
- Ability to challenge constructively and bring solutions to engineering challenges.
- Experience with Common Data Environments and quality systems
The role comes with a competitive salary, a contributory pension from day one (Starting at 3% with a 5% company match up to 18%), private healthcare, access to our Employee Assistance Program, a wide range of discounts/cash back with high street and online retailers. We offer an inclusive work environment with a very training strong academy that offers ongoing opportunities to develop your skills.
Additional Information:
When joining ABP you will find an environment that is both welcoming and challenging. We reward our employees well and offer a generous remuneration package, employer pension, private health insurance and a range of other benefits.
Please note that ABP undertake random screening for substance abuse and operate a zero-tolerance policy. A medical will be required before starting this position also.
We are an equal opportunities employer and we welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their background, which helps us to provide a diverse and inclusive working environment.
As part of our recruitment process, all successful candidates will be subject to pre-employment screening to Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS). Please note your consent will be required and further information on this check can be found using the following link: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/united-kingdom-security-vetting-clearance-levels/national-security-vetting-clearance-levels
Assistant Design & Engineering Manager employer: Associated British Ports
At ABP, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the Humber Region where innovation meets tradition. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through our supportive culture and opportunities for professional development, ensuring that you can thrive while managing a diverse property portfolio. With competitive salaries and fantastic benefits, joining our team means becoming part of a forward-thinking organisation that values collaboration and strategic impact in one of the UK's most significant industrial hubs.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Design & Engineering Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Assistant Design & Engineering Manager role. Highlight your relevant experience in civil infrastructure projects and showcase how your skills align with the job description.
Showcase Your Experience:Don’t just list your past jobs; explain how your previous roles have prepared you for this position. Focus on your engineering design experience and any specific projects that demonstrate your ability to manage technical delivery.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward. Use clear language and avoid jargon unless it's relevant. We want to see your personality shine through, so let your passion for engineering and design come across!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
