Senior Architectural Technician / Design Manager

This role is based within Homes by Esh, one of the North’s leading private housebuilders, with a strong reputation in the new homes market. By merging technology with expertise, we produce superbly built homes using the latest technology, alongside creating a product range designed to attract buyers seeking a greener and more sustainable way of living. We pride ourselves on our unrivalled customer service, recognising that buying a home is one of life’s most important investments.

About the role: 

We are recruiting a Senior Architectural Technician / Design Manager to support the Technical Director. The Senior Architectural Technician / Design Manager is responsible for coordinating the design process from concept through construction, ensuring that designs are buildable, compliant, cost-effective, and delivered on schedule. Their role bridges the gap between the client, consultants, planning authorities, and construction teams.

Location:

Bowburn

What we will expect from you:

Design Management:

• Lead and coordinate the design process across all project stages
• Develop and maintain the design programme to meet project milestones
• Manage the flow of design information between architects, engineers, consultants, and internal teams
• Ensure design deliverables are issued on time and to the required quality

Consultant Management:

• Appoint, brief, and manage external design consultants
• Review consultant performance and ensure coordination between disciplines
• Chair design team meetings and distribute actions

Planning and Regulatory Compliance:

• Coordinate planning applications and support responses to planning conditions
• Ensure compliance with: 

- Building Regulations 

- Planning permissions 

- NHBC or other warranty provider standards 

- Fire safety regulations 

- Environmental and sustainability requirements ​

• Manage submissions for statutory approvals

Technical Coordination & Production:

• Produce & review architectural and engineering drawings for accuracy, coordination, and buildability
• Resolve design clashes before construction begins
• Coordinate utility designs and external works, collaborating with the Engineering Manager
• Ensure specifications meet company standards and customer requirements
• Support the Technical Director to ensure all relevant technical information is available

Construction Support:

• Work closely with site managers and project managers during construction
• Respond to Requests for Information (RFIs) and technical queries
• Coordinate design changes during construction
• Minimise delays & costs caused by incomplete or conflicting information

Cost and Value Engineering:​

• Work with commercial and estimating teams to identify cost-effective design solutions
• Evaluate alternative materials and construction methods
• Balance quality, cost, programme, and customer expectations

Risk Management:

• Identify design-related risks early
• Maintain design risk registers
• Ensure risks are mitigated before work commences on site

Quality Assurance:​

• ​Review drawings against company standards
• Ensure consistent design quality across developments
• Coordinate design reviews at key project stages

Stakeholder Management:

• Liaise with: 

- Clients and developers 

​ - Local authorities 

-  Planning officers

- Architects 

- Structural and civil engineers 

​ - Building Control 

- Warranty providers 

- Site teams 

- Commercial teams 

- Sales and marketing (for customer-facing layouts and specifications) 

Programme Management:

• Monitor design progress against programme
• Identify potential delays and implement recovery plans
• Ensure information is released in line with procurement and construction schedules

Sustainability:

• Coordinate energy and sustainability assessments
• Ensure designs achieve required environmental standards
• Support delivery of low-carbon and energy-efficient homes

Health and Safety:

• Coordinate compliance with the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations
• Ensure designers identify and eliminate foreseeable construction and maintenance risks
• Support the Principal Designer in fulfilling statutory duties where applicable

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:

• A minimum of 7 years’ experience in a fast-paced developer is desirable
• A HND/Degree in an Architectural/Technical background is desirable

Attributes & Skills:​

• Must have a passionate, resilient and enthusiastic attitude with a willingness to adapt workload
• Strong technical construction knowledge
• Understanding of residential construction methods
• Knowledge of planning and Building Regulations
• Project management and programme management
• Design coordination
• Problem-solving and decision-making
• Negotiation and stakeholder management 
• Budget awareness
• Communication and leadership
• Proficient in AutoCAD and Revit
• Proficient in Microsoft Office suite