About the Role
Design Manager - Water (PFAS) - AMP8Location: East of England (hybrid working) Working Pattern: 3 days per week on site for first 3 months, reducing to approx. 2-3 days per fortnight based on performance Type: Permanent preferred | Contract consideredLead the design of a flagship AMP8 portfolio tackling PFAS ('forever chemicals') removal across multiple Water Treatment Works. This is a high-impact leadership role managing a multidisciplinary team delivering complex treatment solutions centred on two-stage Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) systems, with a combined portfolio value of approximately £155m.You will lead design excellence, innovation and sustainable engineering outcomes across projects spanning Grimsby to Colchester, helping protect water quality and the natural environment for future generations.The RoleAs Design Manager, you will lead a team of 15-20 engineers delivering detailed design solutions across a portfolio of PFAS treatment projects. Working collaboratively across project management, construction and supply chain partners, you will drive high-quality, safe and cost-effective engineering outcomes aligned with AMP8 priorities.Key ResponsibilitiesDesign LeadershipLead multidisciplinary design delivery across water treatment capital projectsDevelop and manage Engineering Project Plans covering scope, programme, cost, risk and resourcesDirect Process, Mechanical, Electrical and Civil engineering design activitiesEnsure design quality processes support a right-first-time approachCoordinate supplier and subcontractor design integrationSupport optioneering and solution development activitiesProject DeliveryCollaborate across integrated project teams to deliver joined-up project outcomesDrive affordability, programme certainty and value engineeringEmbed sustainability and carbon reduction principles into designsIdentify and manage risks, opportunities and design improvementsEnsure stakeholder engagement and design acceptanceHealth & Safety (CDM)Support delegated Principal Designer duties under CDM RegulationsEnsure design risk assessments, pre-construction information and H&S files are producedPromote a strong safety culture across engineering teamsTeam Leadership & DevelopmentLead, mentor and develop a multidisciplinary engineering teamIdentify capability gaps and support recruitment and resource planningFoster an inclusive, collaborative and high-performing team environmentInnovation & TransformationPromote digital engineering and fully attributed 3D modellingSupport product standardisation and design innovationDrive continuous improvement in engineering efficiency and sustainabilityAbout YouQualifications & ExperienceDegree-qualified in Engineering or related disciplineChartered Engineer status (or working towards)Experience delivering design for water or infrastructure capital projectsExperience leading multidisciplinary design teamsExperience working within Design & Build environments beneficialUnderstanding of CDM designer responsibilitiesBenefits (Permanent option)Employer pension contributionPotential company car or car allowance (partner dependent)Structured salary progression within bandingLong-term AMP8 programme visibilityFlexible hybrid working arrangement after initial onboarding periodApply now to secure a key role delivering critical water treatment infrastructure and environmental improvements.