Project Design Lead

Project Design Leader - Water / Design & Build Location: Bristol based + site visits Type: Permanent or Contract | Full-Time | Hybrid workingThe opportunityA strong opportunity for a Project Leader / Design Manager / Project Engineer to join a long-term AMP8 programme delivering water and wastewater infra and non-infra schemes across the South West.This role offers something different to a traditional Project Manager position - combining project management and hands-on design engineering, with full ownership from outline design through to construction and handover.With secured framework funding through to 2030 (and likely further extension), it offers both long-term stability and genuine career progression, including a clear pathway to chartership.The roleYou will lead and own project delivery, ensuring technical, commercial and delivery objectives are aligned from day one.Key responsibilities:Lead the design and delivery of water and wastewater projects from outline through to commissioning and handoverWork as part of a 'project triangle' with a Site Manager and Quantity Surveyor to balance technical, commercial and constructability considerationsCoordinate multi-disciplinary teams (civil, mechanical, electrical, process and BIM)Ensure delivery on programme, within budget and to required quality standardsContribute to design within your discipline where requiredMentor junior engineers and support team developmentBuild strong relationships with client stakeholders and promote a 'one-team' approachMaintain compliance with relevant frameworks, specifications and CDM 2015 requirementsAbout the programmeYou'll be supporting a major AMP8 investment programme, delivering non-infrastructure and treatment schemes across the south west and south coast.This is a varied portfolio of work focused on improving water and wastewater services, offering exposure to both treatment and non-infrastructure projects.What we're looking forThis position suits engineers looking to move into (or already operating within) a hybrid design + project leadership role.Essential experience:Degree in Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical or Process)Incorporated Engineer (or working towards chartership)Experience delivering water or wastewater projectsOutline and/or detailed design experienceKnowledge of CDM 2015 Designer / Principal Designer dutiesStrong communication and stakeholder engagement skillsWhat's on offerFinancial & benefitsSalary up to £55,000 + packagePension matched between 4.5% - 7%Annual bonus schemeProfessional membership fees paidWork-life balance & wellbeing33 days annual leave (flexible buy/sell options)Private medical, life assurance and wellbeing optionsHybrid working (home / office / site)Family & flexibility26 weeks' paid maternity/adoption leaveEnhanced paternity/partner leaveAdditional leave for carersLearning & developmentStructured programme to support chartershipMentorship, training and real project ownership from day oneExposure across full project lifecycle within a design-and-build environmentWhy apply?This is a strong opportunity to step into a role that offers:Full lifecycle project ownershipA genuine mix of technical delivery and project managementLong-term AMP framework securityFast-tracked professional developmentIf you're working in the water sector and want a more integrated role where you can lead projects and stay close to the engineering, this is worth exploring.Apply now or get in touch for a confidential discussion:Leon Smith Murray McIntosh