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- Tasks: Lead multi-disciplinary teams to deliver innovative infrastructure projects.
- Company: Join Southern Water, a leader in sustainable water solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, generous pension, and performance bonuses.
- Why this job: Be part of impactful projects that enhance community well-being.
- Qualifications: MEng, BEng, or BSc in Engineering or related field required.
- Other info: Flexible working options available; engage with us to learn more!
The predicted salary is between 65000 - 91000 ÂŁ per year.
Closing Date 28/01/2026
Job Title : Senior Project Design Lead
Location : Falmer. Hybrid Working
Contract Type : Perm
Salary : Salary to be discussed at the screening stage
Are you ready to shape the future of water infrastructure across the South?
Southern Water is looking for a Senior Project Design Lead to play a pivotal role in driving innovative, sustainable engineering solutions across some of our most critical major projects.
This is your chance to influence multi‑million‑pound programmes that will directly improve environmental outcomes, resilience, and customer service—while helping us deliver our Water for Life vision.
About The Role
As a Senior Project Design Lead, you’ll be the technical authority behind our most complex infrastructure and non‑infrastructure projects. You’ll lead multidisciplinary teams, guide design strategy from concept to commissioning, and ensure we deliver top‑quality, low‑TotEx solutions that keep us ahead of regulatory and customer expectations.
You will be the go‑to expert for design excellence—driving improvements, challenging norms, and embedding innovation across the programme.
What You Will Be Responsible For
Lead Design & Technical Delivery
- Take ownership of all design quality and technical integrity
- Drive lowest whole‑life cost (TotEx) design solutions
- Manage design scope, timelines, budgets and resource allocation
- Work collaboratively with Operations, Asset Strategy & Planning, contractors and supply chain partners
Innovation & Best Practice
- Challenge existing processes to improve design efficiency
- Introduce digital, standardised and modern design approaches
- Apply industry best practice to drive continual improvement
- Work closely with contractor partners to enhance delivery methods
People & Culture
- Mentor and support Project Design Leads and Assistant Design Leads
- Help create a positive, open and innovative team environment
- Encourage learning, creativity and continuous improvement
Financial & Programme Accountability
- Ensure design solutions outperform budget expectations
- Produce accurate design cost estimates and monthly forecastsMaintain programme delivery and flag potential delays early
- Support the removal of blockers and assist in resolving key issues
Safety, Environment & Customers
- Embed safety, sustainability and environmental responsibility into all designs
- Ensure compliance with health, safety and environmental standards
- Deliver design solutions that meet customer and regulatory expectations
What You’ll Bring To The Role
- A strong background in water (or utilities) infrastructure design and project delivery.
- Experience leading complex, multidisciplinary design work.
- Strong communication skills, able to engage both technical and non‑technical stakeholders.
- MEng/BEng/BSc or HND/HNC in Engineering, Environmental or another relevant technical discipline.
- Membership of a relevant professional institution (Chartered or working towards).
Southern Water is at the forefront of transforming Britain’s water industry, investing significantly to enhance resilience, sustainability, and service excellence. With £7.8bn planned investment for , this is an unparalleled opportunity to join a business committed to delivering a generational shift in the way water services are managed.
You will be joining at a time of significant change, working alongside a highly skilled leadership team with a clear vision for the future. We offer an environment where senior professionals can make a meaningful impact, influence major strategic decisions, and drive long‑term value creation.
“Your potential matters more than a perfect checklist. If this role excites you and you believe you can make an impact, we want to hear from you! Skills can be learned—passion, drive, and fresh perspectives are what truly set candidates apart. Don’t hesitate—take the leap and apply!”
If this role isn’t quite what you’re looking for but are keen to be contacted about opportunities at Southern Water, you can register your details here: Introduce Yourself (myworkdaysite.com- Introduce Yourself).
Our Commitment to Diversity
We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, identities, and experiences. We do not discriminate based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, or any other protected characteristic. If you need reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know.
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Senior Project Design Lead employer: Southern Water
Contact Detail:
Southern Water Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Project Design Lead
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the engineering and construction sectors, especially those who have experience with Southern Water or similar organisations. Attend industry events and engage in discussions to showcase your expertise and interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in digital design approaches and project management tools like BIM and NEC contracts. Being well-versed in these areas will not only enhance your knowledge but also demonstrate your commitment to continuous improvement.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you foster collaboration within multi-disciplinary teams. Think of specific examples where you've successfully led a team through complex challenges, as this aligns closely with the responsibilities of the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Southern Water's recent projects and initiatives, particularly those related to sustainability and health & safety. This knowledge will help you articulate how your values align with theirs during interviews and discussions.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Project Design Lead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in engineering and construction, particularly in team leadership and stakeholder engagement. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to solve complex challenges and deliver infrastructure projects.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for collaboration and teamwork. Mention how your technical expertise aligns with the role and provide examples of how you've successfully led multi-disciplinary teams in the past.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly state your educational background, especially if you hold an MEng, BEng, or BSc in Engineering or Environmental Science. If you have certifications like APM or NEC, make sure to include them as they are advantageous for this position.
Showcase Soft Skills: Emphasise your emotional intelligence and communication skills in your application. Provide examples of how you've facilitated discussions and guided teams towards informed decisions, as these qualities are crucial for the Senior Project Design Lead role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Southern Water
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit
As a Senior Project Design Lead, teamwork is crucial. Be prepared to discuss examples of how you've successfully collaborated with multi-disciplinary teams in the past. Highlight your ability to facilitate discussions and ensure all voices are heard.
✨Demonstrate Technical Expertise
Make sure to brush up on your technical knowledge related to engineering and construction. Be ready to discuss specific projects where you applied your expertise, particularly in relation to design quality and compliance with technical standards.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Southern Water values strong stakeholder engagement. Prepare to talk about how you've built relationships with various stakeholders in previous roles. Share strategies you've used to ensure effective communication and collaboration across different departments.
✨Emphasise Health and Safety Awareness
Given the importance of health, safety, and environmental practices in this role, be ready to discuss your experience in promoting safe design practices. Share any relevant strategies or initiatives you've led that prioritised health and safety in project delivery.
