Salary: £60,000 – £70,000

Location: Hertfordshire

Job Type: Full-time

Overview

A well-established steel fabrication specialist is seeking an experienced Design Manager to lead their growing design department. This role requires a strong technical background in structural steelwork and architectural metalwork, combined with excellent leadership skills and the ability to drive design quality, efficiency, and innovation across multiple projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and support the design team to ensure successful project delivery.
• Oversee planning, prioritisation, and allocation of design resources to meet deadlines and project objectives.
• Review project requirements, specifications, and drawings, developing comprehensive and practical design solutions.
• Outline detailed production methods and processes, including required equipment and software.
• Produce and review preliminary sketches, ensuring alignment with project goals.
• Ensure all designs comply with relevant industry codes, standards, and regulations while optimising structural integrity and safety.
• Prepare initial estimates, material take-offs, and calculations.
• Use advanced design software (AutoCAD, Tekla Structures, Advance Steel, etc.) to produce accurate drawings, models, and documentation.
• Work closely with clients, architects, engineers, and internal teams to understand requirements and provide clear design direction.
• Present design concepts, updates, and solutions to clients, incorporating feedback to maintain alignment with project expectations.
• Build strong, transparent client relationships, ensuring satisfaction throughout the design process.
• Implement and maintain robust quality control procedures for accuracy, consistency, and compliance.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements or team development and communicate recommendations to Directors.
• Conduct thorough reviews of design deliverables, resolving discrepancies and ensuring the highest standards of output.
• Ensure full compliance with relevant regulations, industry codes, and best practices.

Requirements

• Proven experience as a Draughtsperson or in Design Management within the steel fabrication sector.
• Strong background in structural steelwork and architectural metalwork design.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, Tekla Structures, Advance Steel, and related design tools.
• Solid understanding of structural engineering principles, steel connection design, and fabrication processes.
• Exceptional leadership and communication skills, with the ability to inspire and guide a design team.
• Highly detail-oriented with a commitment to quality, accuracy, and continuous improvement.
• Strong knowledge of relevant industry codes, standards, and regulations.
• Ability to manage workload effectively and meet deadlines.

Benefits

• Competitive salary £60,000 – £70,000, depending on experience.
• Opportunity to work on diverse and technically interesting projects.