Design Manager - Electrical / Civils Background - Opportunity to join the power sector in Watford

Design Manager - Electrical / Civils Background - Opportunity to join the power sector in Watford

Watford Full-Time No working from home possible
Laing O'Rourke

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead design solutions for power sector projects from concept to construction.
  • Company: Join a forward-thinking company dedicated to sustainability and innovation.
  • Benefits: Career growth opportunities, collaborative culture, and a chance to influence major projects.
  • Other info: Accessible recruitment process for all candidates, including those with disabilities.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on the UK's journey to net zero while working on complex projects.
  • Qualifications: Background in Civil or Electrical Engineering with power infrastructure experience.

Location: Central London (Tottenham Court Road) initially, transitioning to Watford in line with project phases.

We are looking for a Design Manager from the power sector to support our substation projects in London. This is an opportunity to step into a role where you will not just manage design, but actively improve how it is delivered and make a visible impact.

What you'll be doing:

  • Leading the coordination and delivery of design solutions from early concept through to construction and handover.
  • Working closely with designers, engineers, delivery teams and clients to ensure designs are safe, buildable and efficient.
  • Managing design programmes, risks and changes to keep delivery on track.
  • Supporting a collaborative design environment where ideas are shared and improved.
  • Championing innovation, sustainability and continuous improvement across the project.

Why this role stands out:

  • Be part of a nationally critical programme supporting the UK's journey to net zero.
  • Influence high‑value, complex projects with real long‑term impact.
  • Work in a culture that values collaboration, respect and different perspectives.
  • Enjoy opportunities to grow your career across major infrastructure sectors.
  • Contribute to solutions that balance performance, safety and sustainability.

What we're looking for:

  • Background in Civil or Electrical Engineering, with experience in power infrastructure.
  • A strong understanding of design coordination, risk management and delivery processes.
  • Confidence working with a range of stakeholders and bringing people together.
  • A proactive, solutions‑focused mindset with a focus on quality and outcomes.
  • A degree in an engineering discipline (or equivalent experience); chartership is welcomed but not essential.
  • Experience in Major power project experience, EHV, Primary Plant or GIS exposure.

As part of the Disability Confident scheme, we would like to enable access to candidates with long term conditions and disabilities through the ‘Offer an interview scheme'. This supports applicants that meet the essential criteria by offering an interview for the advertised position. Please let us know if you would like to opt in to this scheme and let us know if you require any adjustments for the interview process. 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.

Design Manager - Electrical / Civils Background - Opportunity to join the power sector in Watford employer: Laing O'Rourke

Join a forward-thinking company that prioritises innovation and sustainability in the power sector, located in the vibrant heart of Central London, transitioning to Watford. We foster a collaborative work culture that values diverse perspectives and encourages professional growth, offering you the chance to make a tangible impact on critical infrastructure projects while supporting the UK's journey to net zero.

Laing O'Rourke

Contact Details:

Laing O'Rourke Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Design Manager - Electrical / Civils Background - Opportunity to join the power sector in Watford

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the power sector and let them know you're on the hunt for a Design Manager role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities or can put in a good word for you.

Tip Number 2

Prepare for those interviews by researching the company and its projects. Show us that you understand their mission towards net zero and how your skills in design coordination and risk management can contribute to their goals.

Tip Number 3

Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your background in Civil or Electrical Engineering makes you the perfect fit for managing design solutions. Highlight your proactive mindset and experience with major power projects.

Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.

We think you need these skills to ace Design Manager - Electrical / Civils Background - Opportunity to join the power sector in Watford

Design Coordination
Risk Management
Delivery Processes
Stakeholder Engagement
Proactive Problem-Solving
Quality Focus
Civil Engineering

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience that match the Design Manager role. Highlight your background in Civil or Electrical Engineering and any relevant power infrastructure projects you've worked on.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell us why you're passionate about this role and how you can contribute to our mission in the power sector. Be specific about your experience with design coordination and risk management.

Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit:In your application, emphasise your ability to work with diverse teams and stakeholders. We value collaboration, so share examples of how you've successfully brought people together to achieve project goals.

Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves!

How to prepare for a job interview at Laing O'Rourke

Know Your Design Fundamentals

Brush up on your knowledge of design coordination and risk management in the power sector. Be ready to discuss specific projects you've worked on, highlighting how you ensured designs were safe and efficient.

Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit

Prepare examples that demonstrate your ability to work with diverse teams, including designers, engineers, and clients. Emphasise your experience in fostering a collaborative environment where ideas are shared and improved.

Be Solutions-Focused

Think of challenges you've faced in previous roles and how you overcame them. Highlight your proactive mindset and focus on quality outcomes, especially in major power projects or EHV systems.

Understand the Bigger Picture

Familiarise yourself with the UK's journey to net zero and how your role as a Design Manager can contribute to this goal. Be prepared to discuss how you can champion innovation and sustainability in your projects.