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- Tasks: Lead mechanical design for innovative aviation projects and ensure top-notch delivery.
- Company: Join Laing O'Rourke, a leader in ambitious aviation infrastructure.
- Benefits: Inclusive workplace, professional development, and opportunities across exciting sectors.
- Why this job: Shape the future of airports with cutting-edge design and sustainability.
- Qualifications: Degree in Mechanical Engineering and 5+ years in design management.
- Other info: We value diverse backgrounds and encourage all to apply.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
AtLaing O\\\’Rourke, we\’re delivering some of the UK\’s most ambitious aviation projects – creating smarter, safer, and more sustainable airports for the future. To support this, we\’re looking for a Design Manager specialising in mechanical packages to join our Aviation portfolio.
This is a fantastic opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping the design and delivery of complex, high-profile infrastructure.
Why this role matters
As a Design Manager, you\\\’ll ensure all mechanical design information is reviewed, coordinated, and delivered to the highest standards of technical excellence, safety, and compliance. You\\\’ll collaborate with world-class consultants, clients, and construction teams – influencing outcomes from early design through to handover.
Your expertise will help us integrate DfMA, sustainability, and digital solutions into every project, ensuring buildability, efficiency, and future-ready performance.
What you\\\’ll do
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Lead the management of mechanical design packages across major aviation projects.
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Oversee design progress, ensuring alignment with programme, safety, and technical requirements.
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Champion innovation, sustainability, and digital ways of working.
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Collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams to optimise solutions.
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Provide assurance that designs comply with statutory regulations and contractual obligations.
What you\\\’ll bring
We value transferable experience – so while aviation sector knowledge is a plus, we\\\’re equally keen to hear from those in rail, healthcare, defence, life sciences, or other highly regulated environments where complex mechanical systems are central.
Essential:
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Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline (Chartered or working towards).
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5+ years\\\’ experience managing mechanical design packages from concept to handover.
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Proven ability to influence and coordinate across multi-disciplinary teams.
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Strong knowledge of design governance, statutory compliance, and risk management.
Desirable:
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Aviation or large infrastructure project experience.
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Familiarity with DfMA, MMC, or digital design processes (e.g. BIM).
Why Laing O\\\’Rourke?
We\\\’re committed to an inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive. As a Disability Confident Level 3 Employer, we encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and identities. If you\\\’re passionate about design leadership, but don\\\’t meet every requirement, we\\\’d still love to hear from you.
You\’ll join a business that invests in its people – offering structured development, professional accreditation support, and opportunities to work across some of the UK\’s most exciting sectors.
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Design Manager - Mechanical - Aviation employer: Laing O'Rourke
Contact Detail:
Laing O'Rourke Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Design Manager - Mechanical - Aviation
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals, attend events, and join online forums. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that Design Manager role.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Create a portfolio that highlights your best mechanical design projects. This will give potential employers a taste of what you can bring to the table, especially in aviation or complex infrastructure.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching Laing O'Rourke and their recent projects. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals, especially around innovation and sustainability in design.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Design Manager - Mechanical - Aviation
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 mechanical design experience and any relevant projects you've worked on, especially in aviation or similar sectors.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to tell us why you're passionate about this role and how your background makes you a great fit. Be sure to mention your experience with multi-disciplinary teams and any innovative solutions you've implemented.
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Use specific examples of how you've influenced design outcomes or improved processes in previous roles. Numbers and results speak volumes!
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 the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Laing O'Rourke
✨Know Your Mechanical Design Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your mechanical design principles, especially those relevant to aviation projects. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your past experience where you successfully managed mechanical design packages, highlighting your understanding of compliance and safety standards.
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit
Since this role involves working with multi-disciplinary teams, prepare to share instances where you've effectively collaborated with others. Think about how you influenced outcomes in previous projects and be ready to explain your approach to teamwork and communication.
✨Emphasise Innovation and Sustainability
Laing O'Rourke values innovation and sustainability, so come prepared with ideas on how you can integrate these into mechanical design. Discuss any experience you have with DfMA, digital solutions, or sustainable practices, and how they can enhance project outcomes.
✨Understand the Company Culture
Familiarise yourself with Laing O'Rourke's commitment to inclusivity and professional development. Be ready to express why you resonate with their values and how you can contribute to a thriving workplace. This will show that you're not just a fit for the role, but also for the company culture.
