Mechanical Design Manager - MEP

Mechanical Design Manager — Job DescriptionJob Title: Mechanical Design Manager
Location:  Northampton
Department: Engineering / Design
Employment Type: Full-time, Permanent
Salry: £80,000

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Role SummaryLead and manage the mechanical design function for building services engineering projects, covering full design lifecycle from concept through construction documentation. You will guide a multidisciplinary design team, ensure technical excellence, and support delivery of high-quality, compliant mechanical systems across diverse project sectors.

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Key ResponsibilitiesDesign Leadership & Management

• Lead and oversee mechanical building services design from early concept to detailed construction documentation and handover.
• Manage and prioritise workload for the internal design team, providing technical direction and mentoring.
• Ensure high standards of technical output, design quality, accuracy and innovation.
• Drive design reviews, risk assessments, and value engineering to optimise cost, performance and buildability.

Technical Coordination & Delivery

• Collaborate with project managers, estimating, BIM/CAD teams, and construction teams to align design and delivery.
• Conduct design interface coordination, clash detection and integration with other disciplines (electrical, structural, architectural).
• Support preparation of technical specifications, calculations, schematic and detailed drawings for mechanical systems (HVAC, ventilation, heating, plumbing, controls).

Client & Stakeholder Engagement

• Liaise with clients, consultants and stakeholders on technical design issues, presenting proposals and responding to queries.
• Attend design and coordination meetings, contributing to design decision-making.
• Provide technical support during tender stages and respond to design-related clarifications.

Regulatory Compliance & Standards

• Ensure all designs comply with relevant codes, standards and health & safety regulations (CDM, Building Regs).
• Promote compliance with internal quality, environmental and safety procedures.

Team Development

• Mentor and develop design staff, encouraging skill growth and performance excellence.
• Champion best practices in design workflows, digital tools, BIM and documentation standards.

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Skills & Experience RequiredEssential

• Degree or equivalent qualification in Mechanical/Building Services Engineering or related discipline.
• Extensive experience (typically 5+ years) in mechanical building services design leadership or senior design roles.
• Strong technical knowledge of building services systems (HVAC, heating, ventilation, plumbing, controls).
• Proven ability to manage teams and multiple design projects concurrently.
• Proficiency in CAD/BIM tools (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit) and common engineering software.

Desirable

• Chartered Engineer status or working towards chartership.
• Experience with 3D modelling/BIM Level 2 or above and digital design coordination.
• Knowledge of sustainability and low-carbon system design principles.

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Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-linked incentives.
• Professional development and training support.
• Pension and healthcare benefits.
• Opportunities for career progression and leadership growth.