Design Team Leader

About the role

We're looking for two Design Team Leaders to join our Drainage and Water teams based in Salford or Exeter. Working closely with the Design Manager and wider Kier teams, you'll develop team capability, build strong relationships with clients, and help shape how we deliver value across our infrastructure projects.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and motivate a team of 7‑14 people, supporting professional growth and fostering collaboration.
• Act as technical lead for assigned work packages, ensuring outputs comply with design standards.
• Manage programmes, budgets, and risks across transportation, building & development, and water projects.
• Build and maintain relationships with clients, LLFAs, National Highways, and utilities.
• Drive innovation and process improvements, encouraging knowledge sharing and technical excellence.

Required profile

• Proven experience leading and developing design teams, including line management of experienced engineers and early‑career staff.
• Confident managing clients and key stakeholders with strong communication skills and a track record of positive outcomes.
• Delivered high‑quality, compliant highway drainage and flood risk solutions.
• Practical working knowledge of DMRB, LLFA requirements, and local authority standards.
• Hold a full UK driving licence and are willing to travel as required.

Required skills

• DMRB (Design Manual for Roads and Bridges)
• LLFA requirements
• Local authority standards for drainage and flood risk

What we offer

• Salary £50,000 – £57,500 per year
• Private healthcare
• £5.9k annual car allowance
• Additional benefits and flexible working options