MEP Design Manager

1st Step Solutions are supporting a building services engineering company who have an opportunity for a MEP Design Manager based in Grays, Essex. (with site visits as required)

Our client delivers Mechanical, Electrical & Plumbing solutions across commercial, industrial and residential sectors.

Job Overview
Responsible for leading, coordinating, and managing all design activities for Mechanical, Electrical and Public Health systems across multiple projects.
The role ensures that the MEP design is technically robust, fully coordinated, delivered on time, and aligned with project, regulatory and client requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all Mechanical, Electrical and Public Health design activities from concept through to completion.
• Oversee the production, review and approval of MEP drawings, calculations, reports and technical deliverables.
• Develop and manage the design programme to ensure timely release of information.
• Ensure designs meet project brief, client standards, and statutory/regulatory requirements.
• Ensure MEP designs integrate with architectural, structural and specialist contractor requirements.
• Review designs for accuracy, buildability, safety and cost effectiveness.
• Maintain the design risk register and manage design change control.
• Ensure compliance with relevant British Standards, Building Regulations, CIBSE and industry guidance.
• Provide ongoing technical support to site teams throughout installation and commissioning.
• Manage technical queries (RFIs) and ensure quick, accurate design responses.
• Ensure design information aligns with construction sequencing and site requirements.
• Oversee the preparation, issue and revision control of MEP design documentation.
• Coordinate the production of O&M manuals, handover documentation and as-built information.

Skills & Experience Required

• Coordinate the production of O&M manuals, handover documentation and as-built information.
• Proven experience as an MEP Design Manager, Senior MEP Engineer, or similar leadership design role.
• Strong technical background in both Mechanical and Electrical building services engineering.
• Ability to review and understand schematics, drawings, specifications and technical reports.
• Solid understanding of RIBA design stages, construction processes and design coordination.
• Experience working for an MEP contractor or building services consultancy.
• Excellent communication, leadership, organisation and problem-solving skills.

Desirable

• Experience in BIM/3D coordination tools (Revit, Navisworks).
• Familiarity with design & build contracts and contractor-led engineering.
• Understanding of commercial implications of design changes and value engineering.

Qualifications

• Degree, HNC or HND in Mechanical, Electrical or Building Services Engineering
• Working toward or holding Chartered status (CIBSE, IMechE, IET) is advantageous.
• CSCS Manager/Supervisor card (or willingness to obtain)

On Offer:

• Competitive salary
• Company car / allowance
• Career progression opportunities
• Training & development support
• Pension scheme
• Holiday entitlement
• Private Health Care