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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 projects shaping the UK's future.
- Benefits: Long-term career stability, supportive team, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Located near Wimbledon Park with excellent transport links and a commitment to diversity.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on critical infrastructure while developing your skills in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in design management from any construction sector; transferable skills welcomed.
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 in London 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 in London
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the HV power sector! Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out on LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Show Off Your Skills
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your transferable skills. Whether it's from civils, electrical, or architectural backgrounds, we want to see how your experience can bring value to the role. Be confident and own your expertise!
✨Prepare for the Interview
Do your homework on Laing O'Rourke and the specific project you'll be working on. Understand their values and how they align with your own. We recommend preparing some thoughtful questions to show your genuine interest in the role and the company.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re proactive and really interested in joining our team at Laing O'Rourke.
We think you need these skills to ace Design Manager - Substation Project - Opportunity to join the HV Power sector 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 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 roles 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 are key aspects of the job. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Demonstrate your interest in the role by asking insightful questions about the project and team dynamics. Inquire about the challenges they face in the upgrade process or how they ensure design compliance. This shows you're not just interested in the job, but also in contributing to the team's success.
✨Be Yourself
Laing O'Rourke values a diverse and inclusive workforce, so don’t hesitate to let your personality shine through. Share your passion for design and infrastructure, and express your eagerness to learn and grow within the HV power sector. Authenticity can set you apart from other candidates.