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