Design Manager

|Civil & Construction - Design Management|Auckland

Auckland, Christchurch or Wellington location | Design-Led Contractor | Technical Projects 

This established, niche design & build contractor is looking for an Engineer who enjoys solving complex problems, influencing outcomes, and working closely with project teams on technically challenging builds.

This is a role where you can add real value — taking ownership of the design process, working alongside experienced specialists, and delivering practical, buildable solutions across industrial and commercial projects. You’ll be joining a business known for its long-term client relationships, strong delivery model, and collaborative project environments.

As a Design Manager, you’ll be part of a tight-knit, social, high-performing team that values initiative, ideas, and getting stuck in.

What You’ll Be Doing

  • Lead and manage the full design lifecycle – concept through to construction handover
  • Coordinate architects, engineers, and consultants to ensure fully integrated outcomes
  • Drive buildability, cost-efficiency, and value engineering
  • Manage the consenting process end-to-end
  • Facilitate design reviews and ensure high-quality, coordinated documentation
  • Identify risks early, solve problems, and keep projects moving

What You’ll Bring

  • 5+ years’ experience in design engineering / design coordination on commercial or industrial projects
  • Background in civil, structural, or mechanical engineering
  • Exposure to contractor environments (preferred)
  • Solid understanding of NZ construction methods, contracts, and consenting processes
  • Experience with Design & Build projects (advantageous)
  • Familiarity with Procore, Bluebeam, BIM360 or AutoCAD (nice to have)

Who You Are

  • A practical problem solver who enjoys technical challenges
  • A clear communicator who builds strong working relationships
  • Proactive, resilient, and always looking for better ways to deliver projects
  • Someone who enjoys being part of a social, team-driven environment

Why This Role?

  • Work on complex, design-led projects with real technical depth
  • Be trusted with ownership and influence over design outcomes
  • Join a business with a strong pipeline and repeat clients
  • Be part of a down-to-earth, high-performing team

Package: Competitive salary + 5 weeks leave + medical + ongoing training & development

Location: With a national footprint this role could be based in any of the main centres. 

Having partnered with this business for many years, I can confidently say they’ve built one of the best team environments in the market — with a genuine focus on people, continuous improvement, and long-term career development.

If you’re ready to step into a role where you can combine technical thinking with real project impact, apply now or reach out for a confidential discussion.

Simon Field
Senior Recruiter
09 281 5593
simon@trs.co.nz