Design Manager – Architectural Metalwork
Location: Tanfield Lea South Industrial Estate, Stanley, County Durham DH9 9XF
Salary: Competitive, dependent upon experience
Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent
About the Role
We are looking for an experienced and practical Design Manager to take ownership of the design and surveying function within our architectural metalwork business based in Stanley, County Durham.
This is a hands-on role suited to someone who enjoys being involved in every stage of a project, from initial site survey and technical assessment through to detailed design, fabrication support and installation assistance. The successful candidate will be accountable for ensuring that designs are accurate, practical, commercially viable and delivered on time.
Our projects include the design and manufacture of architectural metalwork products including railings, gates, balconies, balustrades, fencing and associated steelwork for commercial and residential developments throughout the North East, and Nationally for Supply Only.
As part of a wider group of building product manufacturing companies, this position offers the opportunity to contribute to the future direction of the business while working closely with commercial, contracts, production and installation teams.
Key Responsibilities
Site Surveys & Technical Assessment
- Undertake site surveys and accurately record dimensions, levels and installation requirements.
- Assess site conditions, access constraints, fixing methods and potential installation challenges.
- Produce survey sketches, notes and photographic records.
- Communicate survey findings effectively to contracts, production and installation teams.
Design & Drawing Production
- Produce detailed 2D CAD drawings for client approval, manufacture and installation.
- Develop practical and cost-effective design solutions that meet customer and project requirements.
- Ensure designs comply with relevant building regulations, standards and industry best practice.
- Maintain accurate drawing registers, revisions and project documentation.
Project Support & Coordination
- Work closely with commercial and contracts teams to review project requirements and specifications.
- Liaise with fabricators and production personnel to ensure designs are efficient to manufacture.
- Provide technical support throughout the project lifecycle.
- Resolve design-related queries and provide revised solutions where required.
Continuous Improvement
- Help improve design processes, systems and standards.
- Support the development of best practice across the design function.
- Keep up to date with industry developments, materials and fabrication techniques.
About You
You will be a technically strong designer who is equally comfortable in the office and on-site. You will enjoy taking ownership of projects and working collaboratively with colleagues across the business.
Essential Experience
- Significant experience producing detailed 2D CAD drawings.
- Experience within the architectural metalwork, non-structural steelwork or associated construction sectors.
- Experience designing products such as:
- Railings
- Gates
- Balustrades
- Balconies
- Fencing and architectural steelwork
- Ability to interpret architectural and engineering drawings.
- Strong organisational and communication skills.
- Full UK driving licence.
Desirable Experience
- Experience using SolidWorks.
- Previous site surveying experience.
- Experience managing or leading a design function.
- Knowledge of fabrication, manufacturing and installation processes.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary based on experience.
- Opportunity to take ownership of the design and surveying function.
- Varied and interesting projects across the architectural metalwork sector.
- Support from a wider group of established building product manufacturing businesses.
- Opportunity to influence design standards, processes and future development of the department.
Interested?
If you have the technical expertise, practical approach and industry experience to make a real impact, we would like to hear from you.
Please submit your CV together with a brief covering letter outlining your relevant experience.
Pay: From £40,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
