Apprentice Design Manager – Level 4
Start your career where it matters most – building a better future together
Tilbury Douglas is a leading UK building, infrastructure, engineering and fit-out company. We deliver complex and high-quality projects across sectors including health, education, defence, justice, water, commercial and civic estate. Strong design coordination and technical information are critical to the successful delivery of our projects.
As an Apprentice Design Manager, you’ll support the production, coordination and management of design and technical information across our projects. You’ll gain hands-on experience working alongside designers, engineers and project teams while developing the skills needed for a career in design and technical delivery within construction.
Location
This role will be based in the North East - Stockton, working within our Regional Design or Technical team. You’ll gain experience across office-based design environments and live project teams.
What you’ll be doing
As a Level 4 Apprentice Designer, you’ll combine on-the-job learning with formal study, developing the core skills required to support design and technical functions.
You will study towards a Construction Design and Build Technician Level 4 Apprenticeship, typically achieving an HNC or equivalent Level 4 qualification.
With the support of experienced designers and technical managers, you’ll:
Support the production and coordination of design and technical information
Assist with preparing and reviewing drawings, schedules and specifications
Help manage design information flow in line with project programmes
Support coordination between architectural, structural and building services design
Assist with design reviews, technical queries and change management
Learn how design risk, buildability and health & safety are managed through the design process
Support digital design processes, including use of CAD and BIM tools
Work closely with project, site and commercial teams to support efficient project delivery
Develop an understanding of how design supports quality, safety and programme outcomes
Why this role?
This apprenticeship provides a strong entry route into construction design and technical delivery, combining practical experience with a recognised qualification. On completion, you’ll be well placed to progress into a Level 6 Construction Design Management.
What we’re looking for
We’re looking for people who are creative, organised and technically curious. You’ll bring:
GCSEs (or equivalent), including Maths and English
A genuine interest in design, construction and the built environment
Good attention to detail and problem-solving skills
Strong communication and teamwork skills
A proactive and methodical approach to work
An interest in digital design tools and technical information
A full UK driving licence (or working towards one by the time you start)
Previous design, technical or construction experience is desirable but not essential.
What we offer
A structured Level 4 apprenticeship combining work-based learning with formal study
Mentoring and support from experienced design and technical professionals
A competitive apprentice salary with progression as you develop
26 days annual leave plus bank holidays Two days’ volunteering opportunities per year
Opportunities to work on complex and meaningful projects across the UK An inclusive culture where your ideas and contributions are valued
Application & Selection Process
Stage 1: Online application window – 9th February – 31st July 2026
(We reserve the right to close vacancies early if sufficient applications are received.)
Stage 2: Shortlisting and invitations to interview
Stage 3: Interviews – dates to be confirmed
Stage 4: Offers made
Stage 5: Keeping in touch days with our Early Careers Manager
Stage 6: Start date – w/c 7th September 2026
Why Tilbury Douglas?
We’re more than just a construction company — we’re a community of people working together to deliver projects that matter. We value collaboration, innovation and wellbeing, and we’re committed to developing talent at every stage.
We are a Platinum Member of the 5% Club, demonstrating our long-term commitment to earn-and-learn opportunities.
Our values guide everything we do:
Everyone has a voice
Do the right thing
Take pride in what you do
Bring better to life
Join Tilbury Douglas and take your first step towards a career in design and technical delivery.
