New-Build Schools - DfE Projects - 3-Year Contract Salary: £68,000 + Car Allowance Contract: 3 Years Employment Type: Permanent salary or Day Rate, depending on preference The Opportunity We are currently recruiting for an experienced Design Manager to join a leading Tier 1 main contractor on a long-term programme of new-build school projects delivered under the Department for Education (DfE). This is an excellent opportunity to join an established main contractor on a three-year contract, overseeing the design process across new-build education developments. We are looking for a Design Manager with experience working for a Tier 1 main contractor, ideally with a background in DfE school projects. However, candidates with strong Design Management experience across other major new-build construction projects will also be considered, provided they have the relevant technical knowledge and experience managing the design process from pre-construction through to delivery. The role offers flexibility, with the opportunity to work on either a salaried basis or a day-rate arrangement. Key Responsibilities * Manage and coordinate the design process across new-build school projects, ensuring designs are delivered in line with programme, budget and quality requirements. * Coordinate architects, structural engineers, building services consultants and other design stakeholders. * Manage design development from pre-construction through to construction and project completion. * Review drawings, specifications and technical submissions, identifying and resolving design clashes and potential issues. * Ensure design information is issued in line with the construction programme and procurement requirements. * Work closely with project managers, site teams and commercial teams to ensure design solutions are practical, buildable and cost-effective. * Chair and attend design team meetings, monitoring progress, actions and outstanding information. * Manage design risks, changes and technical queries throughout the project lifecycle. * Ensure compliance with relevant building regulations, statutory requirements and project specifications. * Maintain effective communication between the client, consultants, subcontractors and internal project teams. About You The successful candidate will ideally have: * Proven experience working as a Design Manager for a Tier 1 main contractor. * Experience delivering new-build construction projects. * Previous experience on DfE school projects or education-sector developments is highly desirable. * Strong design coordination and technical management skills. * Experience managing external consultants, subcontractors and multidisciplinary design teams. * A good understanding of construction programmes, procurement processes and buildability. * The ability to identify design risks and drive solutions in a fast-paced project environment. * Strong communication, organisation and stakeholder management skills. Candidates without direct DfE experience will also be considered where they can demonstrate strong Design Management experience on comparable large-scale new-build projects for a Tier 1 contractor. The Package * £68,000 salary plus car allowance, or a day-rate arrangement depending on preference. * Three-year contract on new-build school projects. * Opportunity to work with an established Tier 1 main contractor. * Long-term project continuity within the education construction sector