Design Manager

This role is based within Esh-Stantec which is a joint venture between Esh Construction and sustainable design and engineering firm, Stantec. Esh-Stantec works in partnership with Northumbrian Water Group (NWG) as a Living Water Enterprise supply partner and provides an end-to-end solution for water and wastewater capital infrastructure projects.​

About the role:

As a Civil Engineering Design Manager within Esh Stantec, you will lead the integration of design into the delivery of complex water and wastewater infrastructure projects. This role is central to ensuring that engineering solutions are practical, buildable, cost-effective, and compliant with industry regulations and environmental standards. You will oversee multidisciplinary design teams, coordinate with construction and commercial functions, and work closely with Northumbrian Water, regulators, and local authorities to deliver safe, timely, and sustainable outcomes across AMP 8 and future programmes. 

Location:

Durham

What we will expect from you:

• Lead and coordinate design activities across clean water and wastewater networks, treatment facilities, pipelines, and associated civil structures
  
• ​Align design outputs with construction methodology, programme constraints, and TOTEX targets
• Manage design deliverables, technical queries, and approvals in line with NEC 4 contract milestones
• Ensure compliance with Northumbrian Water Engineering Standards, UK water industry standards (WIS, CESWI), DWI/EA requirements, and planning consents
• Maintain a live design risk register and support early contractor involvement to de-risk delivery
• Oversee BIM workflows and digital design tools (Civil 3D, Revit, ProjectWise) to enhance coordination and reduce rework
• Facilitate Value Engineering and Collaborative Planning workshops and manage change transparently with clients and stakeholders
• Implement robust QA/QC procedures including design verification, HAZOP/HAZCON reviews, and document control
• Foster collaboration across civil, MEICA, geotechnical, and temporary works teams to ensure seamless integration
• Promote a culture of technical excellence and continuous improvement​

What to Expect from us:

At Esh, our values shape the way we work every day — and you can expect to see them in action from the moment you join us.

• Care: We prioritise your wellbeing and development, offering a supportive environment where you’re encouraged to grow, learn, and bring your best self to work
• Trust: You’ll have the autonomy to take ownership of your work, with managers who believe in your abilities and are there to support you when needed
• Integrity: We do the right thing, even when it’s not the easiest option. You can rely on open, honest communication and fair decision making
• Respect: We value diverse perspectives and create a workplace where everyone is listened to, valued, and treated with dignity
• Working Together: Collaboration is at the heart of how we operate. You’ll join a team that celebrates shared success and supports one another to achieve great results​

Together, these values create a workplace where people feel welcome, trusted, appreciated, and proud to be part of the team.

Qualifications:

• Degree in Civil Engineering or a related discipline preferred
• Chartered status (e.g., MICE, CEng) preferred
• Proven experience in design management within the UK water sector (contractor or design-build)
• Strong understanding of AMP cycles, TOTEX principles, and regulatory frameworks
• Proficiency in BIM and relevant design software tools desirable

Attributes & Skills:

• Strategic thinker with strong technical leadership and decision-making capabilities
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills
• Collaborative mindset with the ability to lead multidisciplinary teams
• Commercial awareness and understanding of NEC contracts and delivery models
• Strong organisational skills with attention to detail and a proactive approach to risk management
• Passion for innovation, sustainability, and delivering value in water infrastructure