Design Manager - Civils & Geo - Prisons

Manchester Area, United Kingdom

6/25/2025

🔎 We're Hiring: Design Manager – HMP Grendon Project

📍 Based from Manchester | 👷‍♀️ Complex Project Delivery | 🏛️ Ministry of Justice Portfolio

Are you passionate about shaping better outcomes through design? Do you thrive in fast-paced, multi-disciplinary environments where innovation meets delivery?

At Laing O'Rourke, we're looking for an experienced Design Manager to join our technical team delivering the HMP Grendon prison project, part of our long-standing Ministry of Justice portfolio. Based from our Manchester office, you'll play a critical role in coordinating and driving design excellence across one of the UK's most complex, secure environments.

🧩 The Opportunity

As Design Manager, You'll

• Lead the coordination of design from early concept through to handover
• Ensure compliance with technical, programme and contractual requirements
• Champion DfMA, digital tools (like BIM), and sustainability within your design approach
• Collaborate with consultants, internal teams and stakeholders to optimise value and buildability
• Drive forward technical assurance while creating a culture of continuous improvement
  
  

This is a unique opportunity to be part of a nationally important project that demands creativity, precision, and leadership.

🎓 What You'll Bring

• Degree-qualified in an engineering, architectural or construction discipline
• End-to-end design management experience in a contractor-side or multidisciplinary setting
• Strong grasp of design coordination, consultant management, and change control
• Proven track record delivering complex infrastructure or secure environments (justice, defence, health, or similar sectors)
  
  

🌱 Why Laing O'Rourke?

We're a Values-led Business Committed To Shaping a Better Built Environment. Our Engineering Enterprise Model Combines Digital Design, Offsite Manufacturing, And Smart Delivery. We Offer

• A supportive and innovative team culture
• Pathways for professional development and chartership
• Inclusive benefits and flexible working
• A role that genuinely makes an impact
  
  

💬 Apply now to help us deliver design that matters – or refer a friend and help us shape the future.

At Laing O'Rourke, we welcome applicants from all backgrounds. We foster a culture of inclusion, respect, and opportunity. If you need any adjustments to support your application, just let us know.