At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic design team on exciting roofing and cladding projects.
- Company: Thornton, a specialist contractor delivering innovative construction solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career progression, and a collaborative work environment.
- Other info: Opportunity for professional development and travel across diverse project locations.
- Why this job: Shape the future of design in high-value projects across the UK and Ireland.
- Qualifications: Experience in design management within the construction industry is essential.
The predicted salary is between 51750 - 63250 £ per year.
Thornton is a specialist contractor and fabricator delivering roofing, cladding, glazing, and metalwork systems across the UK and Ireland. We work across high-rise, commercial, industrial, and public sector projects, providing full design, fabrication, and installation services.
We are seeking an experienced Design Manager to lead our design function across multiple live projects. This is a hands-on leadership role where you will manage a multi-disciplinary design team, oversee design programmes, and ensure all technical deliverables are coordinated, compliant, and aligned with project timelines. You will work closely with preconstruction, commercial, manufacturing, and site teams to ensure smooth project delivery from concept through to installation.
Key Responsibilities- Lead and manage a team of designers, technicians, and external consultants
- Own and manage design programmes across multiple projects
- Ensure all design deliverables are issued on time and to a high standard
- Coordinate design across internal teams and external stakeholders
- Manage RFIs, technical submissions, and design-related communication
- Identify and mitigate design risks, delays, and coordination issues
- Ensure design output is compliant, coordinated, and fabrication-ready
- Maintain control of scope and manage change in line with contract requirements
- Implement structured workflows using BIM and Common Data Environments (e.g. Procore)
- Proven experience managing design teams within the construction industry
- Background in roofing, cladding, façade, or building envelope systems (preferred)
- Strong understanding of design coordination, compliance, and project delivery
- Experience working with Tier 1 contractors and specialist suppliers
- Familiarity with BIM processes and ISO 19650 environments
- Knowledge of JCT / NEC contracts and design responsibilities
- Commercial awareness with the ability to manage scope and risk
- Degree in Construction Management, Architectural Technology, Engineering, or similar
- Chartered or working towards (CIAT, CIOB, RICS, etc.)
- Experience with thermal modelling or façade performance tools
Opportunity to lead and shape a growing design function. Work on complex, high-value projects across the UK & Ireland. Collaborative environment across design, manufacturing, and site teams. Clear scope for progression and professional development.
Additional Information: Travel to project locations across the UK & Ireland may be required. Flexibility for occasional site visits or coordination meetings.
Design Manager TLNT1_NI in Antrim employer: IrishJobs
As a Waste Resource Team Leader with our esteemed local authority client, you will be part of a dedicated team committed to enhancing community sustainability and environmental responsibility. Our organisation fosters a supportive work culture that prioritises employee development, offering training opportunities and a clear path for career progression. With competitive remuneration, including pension and holiday pay, along with the chance to make a meaningful impact in your community, this role is an excellent opportunity for those seeking rewarding employment in the public sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Design Manager TLNT1_NI in Antrim
✨Join Construction Networks
Get yourself involved in local construction networks or industry events. They often have job boards, and networking can lead to unadvertised positions. Plus, it’s a great way to meet potential future colleagues!
✨Show Off Your Skills on Site
If you’ve done any hands-on work, whether it's through internships or personal projects, make sure you can showcase it. Consider volunteering for local construction projects or getting involved in community build days; it’s a solid way to demonstrate your skills and build connections.
✨Utilise Construction Job Sites
Don't just rely on the big job boards. Look at niche construction job sites—many companies prioritise these for full-time roles. Apply through these sites, but don’t forget to reach out directly to companies you admire, like IrishJobs, to express your interest!
✨Tailor Your Application for Full-Time Roles
Make your application stand out by tailoring it specifically for full-time positions. Highlight how your previous projects align with the company's work. At StudySmarter, we encourage you to demonstrate your commitment and long-term interest in the industry when applying for roles like Design Manager TLNT1_NI at IrishJobs.
We think you need these skills to ace Design Manager TLNT1_NI in Antrim
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:In the construction industry, it's essential to highlight any hands-on experience you have. Whether it’s past projects you've worked on or specific roles you've held, make sure your CV emphasises your practical skills and contributions to construction sites.
Include Certifications and Qualifications:Don’t forget to list any certifications relevant to construction, like CSCS cards or other safety qualifications. These can really set you apart from other candidates and show that you’re serious about health and safety on-site.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Construction:When writing your cover letter for a construction role, focus on your problem-solving capabilities and teamwork. Construction relies heavily on collaboration, so mention how you’ve worked successfully with others to complete projects on time and within budget.
Adapt Your CV Format to the Field:Ensure your CV is clear and easy to read, with sections dedicated to skills such as project management, technical abilities, and site supervision. Construction roles often require a blend of technical know-how and soft skills, so make sure both are highlighted effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at IrishJobs
✨Brush Up on Technical Knowledge
For a construction role, it's crucial we have a solid grasp of industry standards, safety protocols, and specific tools used on-site. Make sure you're familiar with relevant regulations and can talk confidently about them, as these often come up in interviews.
✨Showcase Your Projects
Since this is a full-time position, be ready to discuss any previous construction projects you've worked on. Bring a portfolio or have detailed descriptions that highlight your role, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them—this’ll show you’re not just book-smart but also practically savvy.
✨Understand the Team Dynamics
Construction is all about teamwork, so prepare to discuss how you interact with different stakeholders like architects, engineers, and contractors. Maybe think of examples from past experiences to illustrate your ability to communicate and collaborate effectively.
✨Prepare for On-the-Spot Problem Solving
Be ready for some practical questions or scenarios where you'll need to demonstrate your problem-solving skills. Interviewers might present you with a hypothetical construction issue to solve, so practice articulating your thought process clearly and logically—this could really set you apart!
