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 70000 - 90000 € 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 in London employer: Jacobs
At Jacobs, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration. As a Design Manager Associate Director, you will have the opportunity to work on impactful infrastructure projects while benefiting from flexible hybrid working arrangements and a clear path for career advancement. Join our globally connected team and be part of shaping the future of water and wastewater design, all while enjoying a supportive environment that values diversity and inclusion.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Design Manager Associate Director in London
✨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 interviews! A simple thank-you email can go a long way in keeping you top of mind. We believe it’s a great way to reiterate your interest in the role and remind them why you’re the best choice for the team.
We think you need these skills to ace Design Manager Associate Director in London
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 and wastewater, as well as your leadership in multidisciplinary teams.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell us why you're passionate about shaping critical infrastructure. Share specific examples of how you've tackled complex projects and led teams to success, making it clear why you're the perfect fit for Jacobs.
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:Don’t shy away from detailing your knowledge of NEC3/NEC4 and integrated delivery models. We want to see how you’ve managed technical risks and changes in past projects, so be specific about your contributions.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity to make a real impact.
How to prepare for a job interview at Jacobs
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your technical knowledge, especially around water and wastewater design. Familiarise yourself with NEC3/NEC4 contracts and be ready to discuss how you've managed complex interfaces in past projects.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your experience leading multidisciplinary teams. Think about specific challenges you've faced and how you navigated them to deliver successful outcomes. This will demonstrate your ability to lead autonomously at a senior level.
✨Communicate Clearly
As a natural communicator, practice translating complex ideas into simple terms. Be ready to explain your design decisions and how they align with programme, commercial, and construction realities. This will show your ability to engage with clients effectively.
✨Emphasise Your Impact
Reflect on the societal impact of your previous projects. Be prepared to discuss how your work has contributed to infrastructure improvements and how you plan to shape future delivery models. This aligns perfectly with Jacobs' mission to solve critical problems.
