Mechanical Design Manager

Mechanical Design Manager

Location: Leeds

Salary: £50,000 £60,000 + £8,000 Car Allowance

Sector: Engineering Services (Decarbonisation, HVAC & Industrial)

The Challenge

As the UK pivots toward Net Zero, our Engineering Services division is leading the charge. We are looking for a Mechanical Design Manager who can master the complexity of traditional heavy industrial mechanical systems while spearheading high-profile decarbonisation programmes and large-scale commercial HVAC infrastructure.

This isn't just about oversight; it s about technical ownership. You will be the primary lead on projects ranging from massive industrial energy centres to high-spec commercial developments, ensuring every solution is buildable, compliant, and future-proofed against the evolving energy landscape.

Key Responsibilities

1. Multi-Sector Technical Leadership

• Decarbonisation & Energy: Lead the design and delivery of district heating networks, air/ground-source heat pump integration, and carbon-reduction retrofits for aging industrial estates.

• Complex HVAC: Oversee the technical integrity of large-scale commercial HVAC systems, including high-volume air handling, VRF/VRV systems, and sophisticated heat recovery solutions.

• Heavy Infrastructure: Act as the final word on major mechanical systems, specifically large-diameter pipework (300mm+) and high-pressure steam/water distribution.

2. Design & Fabrication Strategy

• Drive the "Design for Manufacture and Assembly" (DfMA) agenda, ensuring commercial and industrial designs are optimised for offsite fabrication.

• Manage the full technical suite: BIM models (LOD 400+), equipment schedules, CFD studies, and fire strategy validations.

• Lead design progression reviews, ensuring multidisciplinary coordination between mechanical, electrical, and structural teams.

3. Commissioning & Regulatory Assurance

• Bridge the gap between the drawing board and the site; lead on-site design reviews and assist in the creation of Inspection and Test Plans (ITPs) and commissioning strategies.

• Ensure all commercial and industrial projects meet Part L, pressure system regulations, and specific client ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) targets.

4. Commercial & Strategic Integration

• Identify and mitigate technical risks early in the project lifecycle.

• Collaborate with the Commercial team to price variations and manage scope creep within complex commercial contracts.

What You Bring to the Table

• Diverse Project Portfolio: Proven experience across heavy industry, energy centres, and high-value commercial construction (offices, hospitals, or mixed-use developments).

• Sustainability Focus: A strong understanding of decarbonisation technologies and the technical challenges of transitioning legacy systems to low-carbon alternatives.

• Technical Mastery: Expertise in industrial pipework, modular assembly, and advanced HVAC design.

• Authority: The confidence to act as the primary technical liaison for clients, consultants, and regulatory bodies.

The Package

• Base Salary: £50,000 £60,000

• Car Allowance: £8,000 per annum

• Benefits: Enhanced pension, private healthcare, and a clear path to Director-level technical leadership.

If interested, please APPLY or call me James Grant at Hampshire Recruitment Group