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- Tasks: Lead innovative design solutions for major energy infrastructure projects.
- Company: Join Laing O'Rourke, a leader in engineering and construction.
- Benefits: Career development, mentoring, and a collaborative culture focused on safety and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the UK's energy transition and sustainability efforts.
- Qualifications: Chartered or working towards chartership in civil, structural, or geotechnical engineering.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive environment welcoming applicants from all backgrounds.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Are you ready to shape the future of the UK\’s energyinfrastructure?
Laing O\’Rourke is delivering major elements of the Great Grid Upgrade, one of the most significant infrastructure programmes in decades—strengthening and modernising the electricity network to enable a greener, more resilient future.
We\’re looking for an experienced Civils & Geotechnical Design Manager to join our project team in Birmingham. This is a pivotal role for a design leader who thrives in complex, multidisciplinary environments and is passionate about technical excellence, innovation, and quality.
What you\\\’ll be doing
As our Design Manager, you will:
- Lead and coordinate civils and geotechnical design activities across the project lifecycle—from early concept through to handover.
- Ensure all design information is delivered accurately, on time, and in line with Laing O\\\’Rourke\\\’s design management procedures.
- Work closely with internal teams, designers, and supply chain partners to drive collaboration, technical clarity, and an optimised design.
- Oversee design reviews, change management, technical assurance, and statutory compliance.
- Support construction delivery through proactive engagement, risk management, and clear communication.
- Foster a culture of continuous improvement, sustainability, safety, and innovation.
What you\\\’ll bring
We\\\’d love to hear from you if you have:
- A degree in Civil Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, Structural Engineering, or similar.
- Chartered status (or working towards chartership).
- 5+ years\\\’ experience managing multidisciplinary design packages.
- Strong capability in design governance, programme management, and technical assurance.
- Experience working across complex infrastructure or energy projects.
- A collaborative, solutions-focused mindset with the ability to influence and enable others.
- A passion for innovation, sustainability, and digital ways of working.
Why Laing O\\\’Rourke?
At Laing O\\\’Rourke, you\\\’ll join a forward-thinking technical team committed to:
- Pushing the boundaries of modern engineering
- Delivering sustainable, future-ready solutions
- Using digital and innovative technologies to transform construction
- Supporting diverse talent and fostering an inclusive culture
You\\\’ll play a key role in a nationally critical programme—one that directly contributes to the UK\\\’s net-zero ambitions
Ready to build a better future with us?
Apply now or reach out directly for a confidential conversation. Let\\\’s create the infrastructure of tomorrow—together.
About Us Laing O\\\’Rourke is an international engineering and construction company delivering state-of-the-art infrastructure and buildings projects for clients in the UK, Middle East and Australia.
Certainty, reliability, quality – this is what our clients want. And at Laing O\\\’Rourke, we have more than 150 years of experience delivering it. Laing O\\\’Rourke\\\’s story is one of energy, passion, ambition, people and teamwork. We harness the power of our experience, stretching back over a century and a half to deliver certainty for our clients.
We want to ensure our recruitment process is accessible to all. If you need the application form in an alternative format or you would like to know more about our recruitment process, please email resourcingteam@laingorourke.com
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Design Manager - Civils & Geo - Substations employer: Laing O'Rourke
Contact Detail:
Laing O'Rourke Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Design Manager - Civils & Geo - Substations
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts on LinkedIn or at events. A friendly chat can lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills in interviews! Prepare a portfolio of your best work and be ready to discuss how you’ve tackled challenges in past projects. This is your chance to shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Research the company culture! Understanding Laing O'Rourke’s values and projects will help you tailor your conversations and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining us in shaping the future.
We think you need these skills to ace Design Manager - Civils & Geo - Substations
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Design Manager role. Highlight your experience in civils and geotechnical projects, and don’t forget to mention any relevant certifications or training.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about the energy sector and how your background makes you a perfect fit for our team. Be sure to mention specific projects or achievements that showcase your expertise.
Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit: Since this role involves working closely with clients and construction teams, make sure to highlight your teamwork and stakeholder management skills. Share examples of how you’ve successfully collaborated on past projects.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s super easy, and you’ll be able to keep track of your application status. Plus, we love seeing applications come in through our own platform!
How to prepare for a job interview at Laing O'Rourke
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your civils and geotechnical knowledge. Understand the latest trends in energy infrastructure, especially around substations. Being able to discuss recent projects or innovations will show your passion and expertise.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Design Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead multidisciplinary teams. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed design delivery and collaborated with various stakeholders in past projects. This will highlight your leadership style and effectiveness.
✨Understand Compliance and Risk Management
Familiarise yourself with Laing O'Rourke's design management procedures. Be ready to discuss how you’ve handled compliance and risk in previous roles. This shows that you’re not just technically savvy but also aware of the governance aspects of design.
✨Emphasise Innovation and Sustainability
Laing O'Rourke values innovation and sustainability, so come prepared with ideas on how to drive these in your role. Think about modern methods of construction you've used or seen, and be ready to discuss how they can optimise outcomes in energy projects.
