At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead design management for impactful infrastructure projects that transform communities.
- Company: Jacobs, a global leader in innovative engineering solutions.
- Benefits: Flexible hybrid working, career growth, and access to world-class expertise.
- Other info: Join a diverse team and enjoy a supportive, inclusive work environment.
- Why this job: Shape critical infrastructure and make a real societal impact.
- Qualifications: Chartered Engineer with 12+ years in water & wastewater design.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 € per year.
At Jacobs, we're challenging today to reinvent tomorrow by solving the world's most critical problems for thriving cities, resilient environments, mission‑critical outcomes, operational advancement, scientific discovery and cutting‑edge manufacturing, turning abstract ideas into realities that transform the world for good. We are scaling at pace — and this is where you come in. With long‑term frameworks secured across AMP8 and beyond, Jacobs is expanding its senior design leadership team across the UK & Ireland.
As an Associate Director – Design Manager, you’ll sit at the heart of delivery, accountable for end‑to‑end design across major capital programmes. You will operate in a highly visible, client‑facing role, leading integrated teams in alliance and D&B environments, ensuring designs meet not just technical standards — but programme, commercial, and construction realities.
What’s in it for you?
- Work on career‑defining infrastructure programmes with real societal impact
- Be part of a globally connected technical community with access to world‑class expertise
- Flexible, hybrid working that supports performance and balance
- A clear path to broader leadership and influence within Jacobs
- The ability to shape innovation and future delivery models in water
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chartered Engineer with 12+ years’ experience in water & wastewater
- Strong track record in detailed design and Design & Build delivery
- Experience leading multidisciplinary teams on major capital programmes
- Deep understanding of NEC3/NEC4, alliancing, and integrated delivery models
- Ability to confidently manage technical risk, change, and complex interfaces
- A natural communicator who can translate complexity into clarity
- The credibility and judgement to lead autonomously at a senior level
Your expertise might include design management, constructability, commissioning integration, technical governance, value engineering, risk & change management, stakeholder engagement, and client leadership.
Ready to Lead What’s Next? If you’re driven by impact, motivated by complexity, and ready to shape critical infrastructure at scale — we want to hear from you.
Equal Opportunities: As a disability confident employer, we will interview disabled candidates who best meet the criteria. We welcome applications from candidates who are seeking flexible working and from those who may not meet all the listed requirements for a role.
Design Manager Associate Director employer: Jacobs
At Jacobs, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through clear pathways to leadership roles and access to a global network of expertise, all while working on impactful infrastructure projects that shape the future. With flexible hybrid working arrangements and a focus on work-life balance, Jacobs is the ideal place for professionals looking to make a meaningful difference in their careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Design Manager Associate Director
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and engage with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. We can’t stress enough how important it is to make those personal connections that could lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Jacobs and understanding their projects. We recommend practising common interview questions and tailoring your responses to highlight your experience in water and wastewater design management. Show them you’re the perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply through job boards; head over to our website and submit your application directly. This shows initiative and gives you a better chance of standing out. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step!
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interviews! A simple thank-you email can go a long way in leaving a positive impression. We believe it shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Design Manager Associate Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that align with the Design Manager Associate Director role. Highlight your experience in water & wastewater, and don’t forget to mention your track record in detailed design and Design & Build delivery.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about shaping critical infrastructure and how your background makes you the perfect fit for Jacobs. Be sure to mention your leadership experience and ability to manage complex interfaces.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:As a natural communicator, it’s important to demonstrate your ability to translate complexity into clarity. Use clear and concise language in your application, and consider including examples of how you've effectively communicated with multidisciplinary teams in the past.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of success. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll be one step closer to joining our amazing team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Jacobs
✨Know Your Design Fundamentals
Make sure you brush up on your design management principles, especially in water and wastewater. Be ready to discuss your experience with detailed design and how you've successfully led multidisciplinary teams on major capital programmes.
✨Master the NEC3/NEC4 Frameworks
Familiarise yourself with NEC3 and NEC4 contracts, as well as alliancing and integrated delivery models. Be prepared to explain how you've navigated these frameworks in past projects and how they relate to managing technical risks and changes.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
As a natural communicator, practice translating complex ideas into clear, concise language. Think about examples where you've effectively engaged stakeholders or clients, showcasing your ability to lead autonomously at a senior level.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Reflect on your leadership experiences and be ready to share specific instances where you've shaped innovation or influenced project outcomes. Highlight your approach to managing teams and how you ensure designs meet both technical and commercial realities.
