A Structural Steel Design Co-ordinator is responsible for planning, co-ordinating and monitoring the structural steel design process from initial design information through detailing, fabrication support and site installation support. The role ensures that drawings, models, calculations and technical queries are aligned with project requirements, buildability, programme, quality standards and relevant regulations. In practice, the role acts as the link between engineers, detailers, architects, fabricators, subcontractors and site teams to help deliver safe, accurate and efficient steelwork packages.
Key Responsibilities
- Co-ordinate the structural steel design process across internal teams, consultants, fabricators and site personnel.
- Review structural and architectural drawings, specifications and design information for completeness, accuracy and buildability.
- Manage design deliverables, drawing issue schedules, requests for information and technical submittals to meet programme deadlines.
- Support the development and review of connection details, steel framing layouts, member sizing information and fabrication requirements.
- Ensure models and drawings are co-ordinated with other disciplines, including architectural, civil and MEP requirements.
- Identify clashes, discrepancies and technical risks early, and work with the project team to resolve them efficiently.
- Liaise with clients, engineers, architects, subcontractors and suppliers to clarify technical requirements and maintain design progress.
- Monitor compliance with relevant design codes, project specifications, health and safety requirements and quality procedures.
- Provide technical support during fabrication and erection, including responding to site queries and managing design revisions.
- Contribute to value engineering, sequencing reviews and practical design solutions that improve buildability, cost and programme outcomes.
Required Qualifications & Experience
- Degree, HND or equivalent qualification in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, Construction Engineering, or a related discipline.
- Relevant experience in structural steel design, steel detailing, fabrication co-ordination or construction delivery.
- Good understanding of structural steelwork, connection design principles, fabrication processes and site erection requirements.
- Experience working with design and detailing software such as Tekla Structures, AutoCAD and, where relevant, Revit or other BIM platforms.
- Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, general arrangement drawings, fabrication drawings and specifications.
- Knowledge of relevant design standards, quality procedures and project documentation requirements.
- Experience of working within multi-disciplinary construction or engineering project teams.
Essential Skills
- Strong technical understanding of structural steel design and detailing.
- Excellent co-ordination and communication skills with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
- Good planning, organisation and time management skills.
- Ability to manage multiple design issues and priorities across live projects.
- Problem-solving ability with a practical and buildable approach.
- Attention to detail and commitment to drawing accuracy and document control.
- Competence in Microsoft Office and common project/document management systems.
- Awareness of health and safety, quality assurance and design change control processes.
Typical Duties and Working Relationships:
On a day-to-day basis, the Structural Steel Design Co-ordinator may attend design meetings, review drawing packages, track outstanding technical queries, co-ordinate model updates, liaise with fabrication teams on practical requirements and support site teams with design clarifications. The role typically works closely with structural engineers, architects, BIM technicians, project managers, quantity surveyors, production teams and erection crews to ensure the steel package is delivered safely, accurately and on time.
