We are working with a well-established, Tier 1 main contractor with a strong track record delivering large-scale education and commercial projects across the UK.

The business is known for delivering high-value, complex new build schemes, with a focus on quality, programme delivery, and health & safety. They have a strong pipeline of secured work and are now looking to appoint a Graduate / Assistant Design Manager for an upcoming education project based within commutable distance of Derby.

This is a permanent opportunity offering long-term development within a structured environment, working on new build school projects from pre-construction through to delivery. The role will support experienced Design Managers on live projects, providing exposure to the full project lifecycle.

This position is ideal for a recent graduate or someone with 1–2 years’ experience looking to progress into Design Management within a main contractor environment.

Duties and responsibilities

Assist in coordinating the design process across new build education projects

Support the Design Manager in managing consultants, subcontractors, and design teams

Attend design team meetings and contribute to technical discussions

Review drawings and technical information to ensure compliance with specifications and regulations

Assist with the management of RFIs, design changes, and document control processes

Support the design programme to ensure information is issued in line with construction requirements

Work closely with site teams to ensure design information is practical and buildable

Assist with value engineering and buildability reviews

Ensure designs comply with health & safety and CDM requirements

Support BIM coordination and clash detection where applicable

Tickets/Qualifications

Degree qualified in Construction Management, Architecture, Civil Engineering, or related discipline

Basic understanding of construction processes and project delivery

Strong communication and organisational skills

Ability to work collaboratively within a project team

Proactive, eager to learn, and motivated to develop within design management

Basic knowledge of AutoCAD, Revit, or BIM (desirable)

Experience Required

Graduate or 1–2 years’ experience within construction, design, or a related field

Exposure to construction projects (placement year, internship, or assistant role desirable)

Understanding of drawings, technical information, or design coordination

Experience working with design software such as AutoCAD or Revit is advantageous

Strong interest in working on new build education projects

Looking to progress into a long-term career within Design Management

What’s in it for you?

£20,000 – £25,000

Structured career progression into Design Management

Opportunity to work on large-scale new build school projects

Exposure to all stages of the project lifecycle

Long-term pipeline with a major UK contractor

Mentorship from experienced Design Managers

If you are interested or know someone who is interested contact me below or email your CV to me