At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a talented design team to deliver innovative MEP solutions across diverse projects.
- Company: Established MEP design & build specialist with over 50 years of experience.
- Benefits: Autonomy in a leadership role, stable growth, and diverse project exposure.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a collaborative environment focused on sustainability and innovation.
- Qualifications: Experience in MEP design management and strong technical knowledge in mechanical/electrical disciplines.
- Other info: Opportunity for long-term progression in a close-knit team culture.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
A decades old and ambitious Building Services Contractor is seeking an experienced MEP Design Manager to lead its in-house design function from its Kent office. This is a key leadership role within a growing business that delivers fully integrated mechanical and electrical solutions across a diverse portfolio of projects.
The Company
Our client is a well-established MEP design & build specialist with over 50 years of industry experience, delivering projects nationwide. They offer a full turnkey service from concept design through to installation and maintenance, with a strong emphasis on sustainability, low-carbon solutions, and energy-efficient systems. Operating across sectors including commercial, residential, defence, and public infrastructure, they are known for their collaborative approach, repeat business, and ability to deliver complex, bespoke projects. The business continues to grow steadily and has built a strong reputation for quality delivery, technical expertise, and a close-knit, team-oriented culture.
The Role
As MEP Design Manager, you will take ownership of the design function, leading a small but capable team and ensuring the successful delivery of projects through key RIBA stages. Key responsibilities include:
- Managing and mentoring a team of 4 Design Engineers and 1 CAD Technician
- Coordinating design outputs with internal delivery teams and external consultants
- Ensuring technical compliance, buildability, and commercial alignment
- Driving design quality, innovation, and sustainable solutions across projects
- Acting as the key point of contact for all design-related matters internally
You will be involved in a varied and technically interesting pipeline, including:
- Defence sector projects
- Municipal / public sector buildings
Projects typically range from complex refurbishments through to new-build schemes, often with a strong sustainability and energy focus.
What They’re Looking For
- Proven experience in an MEP Design Manager or Senior Design Engineer role
- Strong understanding of RIBA Stages 3–5 delivery
- Background within a contractor or design & build environment
- Experience managing teams and coordinating multidisciplinary design
- Strong technical knowledge across mechanical and/or electrical disciplines
- Commercial awareness and ability to align design with project delivery
Why Join?
- Genuine leadership role with autonomy and influence
- Stable, growing business with a strong pipeline of work
- Diverse project exposure across multiple sectors
- Close-knit team environment with a collaborative culture
- Long-term progression as the business continues to expand
Design Manager (MEP) employer: Skyward Select
Contact Detail:
Skyward Select Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Design Manager (MEP)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and engage with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Familiarise yourself with their approach to sustainability and energy-efficient solutions. We want you to show them that you’re not just a fit for the role, but that you genuinely care about their mission and values.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to discuss your experience managing teams and delivering complex projects. We suggest you highlight specific examples that showcase your leadership skills and technical expertise, especially in MEP 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 take the initiative to connect directly with us. Let’s get you on board!
We think you need these skills to ace Design Manager (MEP)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience that match the MEP Design Manager role. Highlight your leadership experience, technical knowledge, and any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see how you can bring value to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about the role and how your background aligns with our focus on sustainability and innovation. Keep it engaging and personal – we love to see your personality come through!
Showcase Your Projects: If you've worked on interesting projects, don’t hold back! Include specific examples that demonstrate your experience with RIBA stages and multidisciplinary design. This will help us understand your approach and how you tackle complex challenges.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. 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 to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Skyward Select
✨Know Your RIBA Stages
Make sure you brush up on your understanding of RIBA Stages 3–5. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully navigated these stages in past projects, as this will show your familiarity with the process and your ability to lead a team through them.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your experience in managing and mentoring teams. Think about specific challenges you've faced and how you helped your team overcome them. This will demonstrate your capability to lead the design function effectively.
✨Emphasise Sustainability
Given the company's focus on sustainability and energy-efficient systems, be prepared to discuss your experience with low-carbon solutions. Share any innovative approaches you've implemented in previous projects that align with their values.
✨Understand Their Culture
Research the company’s collaborative approach and team-oriented culture. During the interview, express how you value teamwork and collaboration, and provide examples of how you've fostered a positive team environment in your previous roles.