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- Tasks: Lead design management for a major substation upgrade project in the power sector.
- Company: Join Laing O'Rourke, a leader in infrastructure innovation.
- Benefits: Stable long-term project with opportunities for career growth and development.
- Other info: Collaborative team environment with strong support and mentorship.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on London's electricity supply while advancing your career.
- Qualifications: Experience in design management from any construction background is welcome.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
Are you a Design Manager looking to break into the power sector or broaden your experience on a nationally critical infrastructure project? This is a unique opportunity to join Laing O'Rourke on a major National Grid asset replacement programme, supporting an upgrade to a substation that supplies around a third of London's electricity.
Why this role stands out
- Opportunity to transition into the HV power sector (backgrounds considered from civils, electrical, architectural or general construction)
- Long-term project offering strong continuity and career stability
- High-profile infrastructure upgrade from oil-based systems to GIS technology
- Small, supportive team with strong experience across disciplines
- Exposure to working closely with National Grid
- Acting as the sole Design Manager, giving breadth, autonomy and accelerated development
What you'll be doing
You will play a key role in ensuring that design is coordinated, compliant and deliverable across all stages of the project. This is likely to include:
- Managing design from concept through to delivery and handover
- Coordinating consultants and stakeholders to ensure design meets programme, safety and buildability requirements
- Driving collaborative design reviews and resolving technical queries
- Monitoring progress and reporting against agreed design programmes
- Managing design change, risks and opportunities throughout the lifecycle
This aligns with the core Design Manager accountability of ensuring design is delivered in line with contractual, technical and operational requirements.
What we're looking for
We are deliberately open on background and keen to attract people with transferable experience:
- Experience in design management across any construction sector
- Background in civil, electrical, architectural or general design management
- Ability to manage design information, programmes and stakeholder engagement
- Professional qualification or relevant degree (desirable, not essential)
- Likely to be comfortable working in a site-based environment
The team and environment
A close-knit, collaborative team recognised for being supportive and approachable. Opportunity to work alongside experienced leaders on a technically complex upgrade. Based near Wimbledon Park / Earlsfield tube / overground stations, with good access links.
Why join Laing O'Rourke
Work on industry-leading infrastructure projects that shape the UK's future. Be part of a business that invests in design excellence, innovation and sustainability. Opportunity to build long-term career pathways across sectors.
Our commitment to inclusion
At Laing O'Rourke, we are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce where everyone can thrive. We actively encourage applications from all backgrounds and are proud to be a Disability Confident employer. If you are curious about moving into the power sector, or are looking for a role where you can take ownership and grow quickly, this could be a strong next step.
Design Manager - Substation Project - Opportunity to join the HV Power sector employer: Laing O'Rourke
Contact Detail:
Laing O'Rourke Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Design Manager - Substation Project - Opportunity to join the HV Power sector
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the HV power sector or related fields. Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio that highlights your design management experience and any projects you've worked on. When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, use this as a visual aid to demonstrate your expertise.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! If you see a company you're interested in, don’t wait for them to post a job. Reach out directly, express your interest, and ask if they have any upcoming opportunities. This shows initiative and can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it easy for you to find roles that match your skills and interests. Plus, applying directly can sometimes give you a better chance of being noticed by hiring managers. So, what are you waiting for? Get applying!
We think you need these skills to ace Design Manager - Substation Project - Opportunity to join the HV Power sector
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 any relevant projects or roles in design management, especially those in construction or related sectors.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to tell us why you're excited about this opportunity in the HV power sector. Share your passion for infrastructure projects and how your background can contribute to our team.
Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit: Since this role involves coordinating with various stakeholders, emphasise your teamwork and communication skills. Give examples of how you've successfully worked with others to achieve project goals.
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!
How to prepare for a job interview at Laing O'Rourke
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the basics of HV power systems and the specific technologies mentioned in the job description, like GIS technology. Brush up on your design management principles and be ready to discuss how your background in civils, electrical, or architectural design can translate into this role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare examples from your past work that highlight your ability to manage design from concept to delivery. Think about times you've coordinated with stakeholders or resolved technical queries, as these will be key points of interest for the interviewers.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
Since the role involves working closely with a small team and various consultants, be ready to talk about your experience in collaborative environments. Share stories that demonstrate your ability to drive design reviews and engage effectively with different stakeholders.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the project and the team dynamics. Inquire about the challenges they face in the upgrade process or how they ensure compliance and safety in design. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.