Senior Design Manager - Transmission & Distribution (Birmingham, UK)
Senior Design Manager - Transmission & Distribution (Birmingham, UK)

Senior Design Manager - Transmission & Distribution (Birmingham, UK)

Birmingham Full-Time 43200 - 72000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
Burns & McDonnell

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 supportive culture, opportunities for growth, and a focus on safety and innovation.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in the energy sector while working with a dynamic team of professionals.
  • Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in engineering and 7 years of relevant experience required.
  • Other info: Full-time role based in Birmingham with 20% travel.

The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ 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. Complies with all policies and standards.

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 - Transmission & Distribution (Birmingham, UK) employer: Burns & McDonnell

At Burns & McDonnell, we pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic work culture that encourages innovation and collaboration. As a Senior Design Manager in Birmingham, you'll benefit from our commitment to employee growth through continuous professional development and a supportive environment that values safety and technical excellence. Join us and be part of a global leader in engineering solutions, where your contributions will help shape the future of power transmission and distribution.
Burns & McDonnell

Contact Detail:

Burns & McDonnell Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Senior Design Manager - Transmission & Distribution (Birmingham, UK)

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with Burns & McDonnell's core values and recent projects in the transmission and distribution sector. This knowledge will help you align your experience with their mission and demonstrate your genuine interest during interviews.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with current or former employees of Burns & McDonnell on platforms like LinkedIn. Engaging in conversations can provide valuable insights into the company culture and expectations, which you can leverage in your application process.

✨Tip Number 3

Stay updated on industry trends and regulations related to electricity transmission and distribution. Being knowledgeable about current challenges and innovations will allow you to speak confidently about how you can contribute to the company's success.

✨Tip Number 4

Prepare to discuss specific examples from your past experiences that showcase your project management skills and ability to lead teams. Tailoring your stories to reflect the responsibilities outlined in the job description will make a strong impression.

We think you need these skills to ace Senior Design Manager - Transmission & Distribution (Birmingham, UK)

Project Management
Engineering Design Management
Knowledge of UK Health & Safety Legislation
Understanding of Environmental and Waste Management Legislation
Construction (Design & Management) Regulations Compliance
Contract Management Skills
Experience with NEC Contracts
Familiarity with National Grid Procedures
IT Literacy, including Microsoft Office and MS Project
Excellent Written and Verbal Communication Skills
Strong Persuasion and Negotiation Skills
Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills
Stakeholder Management
Ability to Manage Multiple Projects
Coaching and Team Development
Health & Safety Qualifications (e.g. IOSH, NEBOSH)

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 leadership skills and project management expertise.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role at Burns & McDonnell. Discuss how your background aligns with their values of innovation and entrepreneurial spirit, and mention any specific projects or achievements that showcase your capabilities.

Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly list your qualifications, especially your degree in an engineering discipline and any relevant certifications like IOSH or NEBOSH. Emphasise your understanding of UK Health & Safety legislation and your experience with NEC contracts.

Showcase Soft Skills: Burns & McDonnell values strong communication and negotiation skills. Provide examples in your application that illustrate your ability to manage relationships with clients and stakeholders effectively, as well as your problem-solving capabilities.

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 at Burns & McDonnell.

✨Emphasise Your Leadership Experience

The role requires strong leadership skills, so share examples of how you've led teams in engineering design projects. Discuss your approach to mentoring and developing team members, as well as how you've fostered a culture of safety and technical excellence.

✨Prepare for Technical Questions

Expect to face technical questions related to design management and the electricity transmission & distribution sector. Brush up on relevant procedures and standards, such as those from National Grid, and be ready to discuss how you've applied this knowledge in your previous roles.

Senior Design Manager - Transmission & Distribution (Birmingham, UK)
Burns & McDonnell
Location: Birmingham

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