At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead design management for a major substation upgrade project in London.
- Company: Join Laing O'Rourke, a leader in infrastructure innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy career stability, professional growth, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Collaborative team culture with excellent access to transport links.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on critical infrastructure while advancing your career.
- Qualifications: Experience in design management from any construction sector 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. 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. We are deliberately open on background and keen to attract people with transferable experience.
Experience required
- 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.
Design Manager - Substation Project in London employer: Laing O'Rourke
Laing O'Rourke is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity for Design Managers to transition into the HV power sector while working on a nationally critical infrastructure project. With a supportive team culture, strong career stability, and a commitment to innovation and sustainability, employees can expect meaningful growth and the chance to shape the future of the UK's energy landscape from a conveniently located office near Wimbledon Park.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Design Manager - Substation Project in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the power sector or those who have worked on similar projects. A friendly chat can lead to valuable insights and even job leads.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio that highlights your design management experience, especially any projects that align with infrastructure upgrades. Visuals can make a big impact!
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job openings; reach out directly to companies like Laing O'Rourke. Express your interest in their projects and how you can contribute.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining the team.
We think you need these skills to ace Design Manager - Substation Project in London
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 responsibilities that showcase your ability to manage design processes, especially in construction or related fields.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're interested in transitioning into the power sector and how your background can bring value to the team. Be genuine and let your passion for the role come through.
Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit:Since this role involves coordinating with various stakeholders, emphasise your teamwork skills. Share examples of how you've successfully worked with others to achieve project goals, as this will resonate well with our collaborative culture.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll find all the details about the role and our company culture there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Laing O'Rourke
✨Know Your Design Fundamentals
Brush up on your design management principles, especially those relevant to the power sector. Be ready to discuss how your background in civil, electrical, or architectural design can translate into managing complex projects like the substation upgrade.
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit
Since this role involves coordinating with various stakeholders, prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated in past projects. Highlight your experience in driving design reviews and resolving technical queries to demonstrate your teamwork skills.
✨Understand the Project's Impact
Familiarise yourself with the National Grid and the significance of the substation project. Being able to articulate why this upgrade matters and how it affects London’s electricity supply will show your genuine interest in the role and the company.
✨Prepare for Change Management Questions
Expect questions about managing design changes and risks. Think of specific instances where you’ve navigated challenges in design delivery, and be ready to discuss how you ensured compliance and met deadlines despite obstacles.
