Design Manager - Highways
Location: Essex
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours: Full-time
Sector: Civil Engineering / Infrastructure / Local Authority
We're looking for an experienced and motivated Design Manager to lead the delivery of highway improvement design programmes within a high-profile public sector contract.
Based in Chelmsford, you'll play a central role in managing a team of design professionals and coordinating the successful planning, resourcing, and execution of annual works programmes. This role is ideal for someone who thrives on leadership, technical excellence, and driving forward positive outcomes for communities.
 
Key Responsibilities
·Oversee and coordinate the delivery of highway improvement designs across multiple programmes.
·Support team leaders in staff development, performance management, and resource planning.
·Ensure technical compliance by applying relevant standards and reviewing all outputs.
·Act as a key point of contact for internal and external stakeholders, fostering collaboration.
·Promote best practices in Health & Safety, quality, and environmental compliance.
·Monitor project finances, reporting, and programme performance against targets.
 
About You
·Proven leadership experience within highway design or infrastructure delivery.
·Strong understanding of industry standards including DMRB, MCHW, Chapter 8, TSRGD.
·Knowledge of statutory and local authority procedures in highway works.
·Skilled in programme management, resource allocation, and team mentoring.
·Comfortable engaging with senior stakeholders and external partners.
 
Benefits
·Competitive salary
·Sick pay
·Company pension scheme
·Life assurance
·Employee discount platform via RJ Rewards
·Opportunity to purchase additional leave
·Flexible working arrangements considered
·Employee Assistance Programme
 
Even if you are happy in your current role for now, we always welcome calls from Highways, Infrastructure & Transportation professionals keen to make their introductions for future months or years. Carrington West's Highways, Transport & Infrastructure division is the fastest growing in the country, our specialist team has a combined over 100+ years' experience in this market. Please call Patrick Gray at Carrington West on 02393 876 069 for more information. By applying for this position, you are agreeing for Carrington West to hold and process your personal data in accordance with our Data Protection Policy. Your data will be shared with third party clients specifically relevant to any roles you have applied for. If at any stage, you wish to withdraw your consent please contact us. Please submit your CV to Patrick.gray@carringtonwest.com