At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead engineering design projects in power transmission & distribution from concept to completion.
- Company: Join Burns & McDonnell, a global leader in engineering and construction since 1898.
- Benefits: Enjoy a dynamic work environment with opportunities for remote work and professional growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a culture that values innovation, safety, and client success while making a real impact.
- Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in engineering and 7 years of relevant experience required.
- Other info: Opportunity for travel and involvement in high-profile projects across the UK.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 84000 £ per year.
Chart your own course and change the world — with the support of people whose interests are aligned with yours. At Burns & McDonnell, opportunity is waiting. We’re looking for people with big ideas and an entrepreneurial mindset. It’s those kinds of people who’ve helped us grow from a small consulting business back in 1898 to a global leader in engineering, architecture and construction solutions. Today, we’re a thriving company with more than 10,000 professionals working in 55 offices worldwide and recognised as a leader in transmission & distribution services.
The Senior Design Manager will provide delivery leadership of Burns & McDonnell's UK engineering design projects within the power transmission & distribution sector.
- Lead engineering design work across the UK business, working closely with the Engineering Director to assemble suitable project teams from across our global offices, as required.
- Provide overall project management of design projects from concept to completion in accordance with recognised best practices (APM/PMP/PRINCE2 or similar), including FEED, environmental, permitting, planning, estimating, engineering, constructability reviews, construction stage design support, and closeout.
- Fulfil the project role of Project Manager on assigned design-only projects or fulfilling the role of Design Manager on assigned Design & Build/Engineer, Procure, Construct (EPC) projects.
- Responsible for performance of assigned projects, including but not limited to:
- Safety, health, environmental management, sustainability, and quality
- Profit and loss
- Risk management
- Adequate and appropriate resourcing
- Program and completion of projects within specified dates
- Establishing and maintaining professional and satisfactory relationships with the client, subcontractors, regulatory bodies, and all other project stakeholders
- Internal legal and financial co-ordination
- Contract management and administration
- Fulfilling all associated statutory and contractual requirements
Maintain project compliance to applicable Burns & McDonnell and client design management processes and procedures. Co-ordinate with engineering discipline department/section heads to resource appropriately competent engineering staff and maintain effective inter-disciplinary design co-ordination and collaboration.
- Develop and implement project policies and procedures, project controls systems and implement the project execution plan.
- Report regularly on project progress, cost and schedule metrics, procurement issues, safety or environmental concerns, design questions, potential impacts, and any issues requiring office support.
- Plan and lead project and client meetings, as required.
- Act as Principal Designer representative, as defined by UK Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015, where required.
- Where appropriate and required, act as the Lead Contractor Design Approval Engineer (LCDAE), as defined by National Grid’s TP137 procedure, or equivalent role as defined by other clients.
- Support the preparation of project proposals, lead presentations, and lead project contract negotiations with support from senior management.
- Drive ‘Safety by Design’ approach on all projects, at all times.
- Support nurturing of a safety and technical excellence culture through emphasis on staff competence, diligence, and responsible attitude.
- Understanding wider industry best practices and client technical standards/procedures for construction, operations & maintenance, and decommissioning, in order to drive safety, constructability, and operability throughout whole asset lifecycles.
- Maintain project compliance to Burns & McDonnell’s UK Integrated Management System.
- Support nurturing of world-class customer service culture, to drive client success.
- Be an ambassador for Burns & McDonnell at all times through acting in accordance with expected high ethical and moral standards, and in adherence to Burns & McDonnell Code of Conduct.
- Provide strong but supportive general personnel management of line reports, with emphasis on supporting continued development, providing technical guidance, and establishing training needs.
- Actively support marketing and business development activities, building relationships with clients and generating new business.
- Seeking and development of future business opportunities through nurturing of client relationships, active pursuit of new project leads, and elevation of the Burns & McDonnell brand.
- Identifying new skills and competencies required within the Burns & McDonnell team to meet business needs and actively supporting development and recruitment of talent, including candidate interviewing.
- Technical leader in design management and contribute to relevant professional bodies and industry groups. Maintain Continued Professional Development (CPD).
- Support or lead portions of department meetings; organise and lead section meetings.
- Interpret and establish policies, procedures, and strategic goals of the organization.
- Assist in determining departmental objectives and requirements, organize projects and develop standards and guidelines.
- Support and assist in the development of the UK business plan.
- Demonstrate creativity, foresight, and judgment in anticipating and solving problems.
- Advance and develop Department tools and workflows to increase efficiency of designs, specification development, and project execution.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor Degree in an engineering discipline relevant to the electricity transmission & distribution sector, from an accredited institution and 7 years of engineering design services experience Required.
- Advanced knowledge of project management and engineering design management best practices, with strong ability to implement this knowledge.
- Understanding of the requirements of relevant UK Health & Safety legislation relating to design and construction work in the electricity supply industry.
- Understanding of the requirements of relevant UK Environmental and Waste Management legislation.
- Thorough understanding of current Construction (Design & Management) Regulations, and experience of discharging all required duties of the CDM Principal Designer representative.
- Strong contract management skills and understanding of NEC family of contracts.
- Experience of working in a design management role on National Grid Electricity Transmission projects in the UK.
- Good knowledge of National Grid’s procedures: TP106, TP131, TP135, TP137, TP141, TP153, TP163, TP182, TP184, TP188, TP189, TP191, TP211, TP215, TP241.
- Understanding of the causes and consequences of Impressed Voltage.
- Understanding of the general requirements of procedural control of Temporary Works, in accordance with British Standards.
- IT literate, with good knowledge of using Microsoft Office applications, including MS Project.
- Excellent written & verbal communication skills.
- Strong persuasion and negotiation skills with clients and employees.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to deal effectively with a wide variety of stakeholders across clients, industry, government and public.
- Able to manage multiple projects and conflicting deadlines.
- Able to work autonomously and/or as part of a project team.
- Pro-active in building knowledge and understanding of the electricity transmission and distribution industry.
- Capability to coach and develop the team.
- Engaged in the engineering community and how we can drive success for our clients.
- Ability to develop innovative and practical solutions to a range of problems, and an understanding of how one issue may be part of a much larger solution.
- Relevant Health & Safety qualification (e.g. IOSH Managing Safely, NEBOSH Cert./Dip., NVQ Level 3 in H&S related subject) Required.
Senior Design Manager / Engineering Project Manager - Transmission & Distribution (Birmingham, UK) employer: Burns & McDonnell
Contact Detail:
Burns & McDonnell Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Design Manager / Engineering Project Manager - Transmission & Distribution (Birmingham, UK)
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the power transmission and distribution sector. Attend industry events, webinars, or local meetups to connect with potential colleagues and learn about the latest trends and opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with Burns & McDonnell's projects and values. Understanding their approach to safety, sustainability, and client relationships will help you align your discussions during interviews and demonstrate your fit for the company culture.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with project management methodologies like APM, PMP, or PRINCE2. Be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully led engineering design projects from concept to completion.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your knowledge of relevant UK regulations and standards, particularly those related to health and safety in the electricity supply industry. This will highlight your expertise and readiness to take on the responsibilities of the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Design Manager / Engineering Project Manager - Transmission & Distribution (Birmingham, UK)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in engineering design management, particularly within the electricity transmission and distribution sector. Use specific examples that demonstrate your project management skills and familiarity with UK regulations.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your entrepreneurial mindset and big ideas. Explain how your background aligns with Burns & McDonnell's values and how you can contribute to their projects. Be sure to mention your understanding of safety and environmental management.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly list your qualifications, including your Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline and any relevant health and safety certifications. Emphasise your experience with NEC contracts and your knowledge of National Grid procedures.
Showcase Leadership Skills: In your application, provide examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past. Highlight your ability to manage multiple projects and stakeholders effectively, as well as your commitment to fostering a culture of safety and technical excellence.
How to prepare for a job interview at Burns & McDonnell
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
As a Senior Design Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your expertise in project management methodologies like APM, PMP, or PRINCE2. Be prepared to discuss specific projects where you've successfully managed timelines, budgets, and resources, highlighting your ability to deliver results.
✨Understand the Regulatory Landscape
Familiarise yourself with UK Health & Safety legislation and the Construction (Design & Management) Regulations. During the interview, be ready to explain how you have ensured compliance in past projects and how you would approach these regulations in your new role.
✨Emphasise Your Leadership Experience
This role requires strong leadership skills. Share examples of how you've led teams, mentored junior staff, and fostered a culture of safety and excellence. Highlight your ability to build relationships with clients and stakeholders, as this is crucial for success.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions related to design management and engineering principles in the electricity transmission and distribution sector. Brush up on relevant National Grid procedures and be ready to discuss how you've applied your technical knowledge to solve complex problems in previous roles.