Design Lead Role in Manchester, Shape Major Water Projects with Sponsorship, Apply Now

Location
Manchester, M1 1RG

Type
Full Time

Salary (£)
Competitive, based on experience

About Mott MacDonald
Mott MacDonald is an award-winning global consultancy that brings together design and build expertise through their joint venture with JN Bentley. With a footprint in engineering, development, and infrastructure, they’re shaping the future of clean water and sustainable environments across the UK. They believe in putting people first, whether it’s their employees or the communities they serve. You’ll feel it in how they invest in your growth and back your ideas with real support.

Job details

Benefits

• Pension matched up to 7% to boost your retirement savings
• Private medical, life assurance, and critical illness cover for peace of mind
• 26 weeks paid maternity leave and enhanced family leave options
• Option to buy or sell leave for extra flexibility
• Annual professional subscription paid to keep your chartership active
• Cycle to work scheme and discounted gym membership to stay healthy and active
• Agile working policy that gives you real control over your schedule

Requirements

• Degree in Engineering with solid water or wastewater design experience
• Chartered or incorporated with a UK engineering body (ICE, IMechE or similar)
• Strong knowledge of CDM 2015 duties from a designer’s point of view
• Proven leadership in multi-disciplinary project delivery
• Able to lead teams across civil, mechanical, electrical, and process disciplines
• Familiarity with developing low carbon, cost-effective solutions
• Willing to travel across operational regions when needed
• Practical, proactive mindset with a focus on quality and safety

Salary Details

Salary is competitive and based on experience, with a generous benefits package that reflects their long-term investment in your success.

About the Role

As Design Lead, you’ll play a key role in the UK’s largest spill reduction and water treatment upgrade programme. You’ll lead multi-disciplinary teams to deliver designs that protect rivers, improve sanitation, and support long-term infrastructure needs.

Working on high-impact projects with United Utilities and other major partners, you’ll see your ideas come to life across the North West and beyond. Your challenge will be to balance quality, safety, cost, and environmental performance while supporting the development of junior designers. This isn’t just technical work. It’s impactful work that improves lives.

You’ll guide a team of engineers, contribute to project strategy, and ensure the designs meet construction standards, regulatory requirements, and client goals. Along the way, you’ll build lasting relationships with stakeholders who count on your insight and leadership.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design process for water and wastewater projects that serve millions
• Oversee quality, cost, and programme milestones across project teams
• Mentor and develop engineers across multiple disciplines
• Collaborate closely with construction partners to align design with delivery
• Engage clients with clear updates and technical advice
• Champion sustainability by embedding low-carbon solutions into every stage
• Ensure compliance with CDM 2015 and safety-by-design principles

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

Not applicable for this role

Certificate of Sponsorship

Mott MacDonald Bentley are not currently offering sponsorship to candidates under the Skilled Worker visa route in the UK. This decision is as a consequence of the changes made to the Skilled Worker route by the UK Government in April 2024. We continue to welcome applications from candidates who are eligible for alternative immigration routes in the UK, that do not require sponsorship as a Skilled Worker now or in future.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Mott MacDonald Bentley values difference. They’re serious about inclusion and making sure everyone has access to equal opportunities. Need adjustments to apply? Call 01756 691572 or email recruitment@jnbentley.co.uk. Everyone is encouraged to apply, even if they don’t meet every box.

Employer Details

• Company Name Mott MacDonald Bentley
• Address Manchester, M1 1RG
• Contact recruitment@jnbentley.co.uk

Reference Number
9717-43511095

How To Apply
Big change starts with bold thinkers. If that sounds like you, Apply Today and shape solutions that truly matter.