Architectural Design Manager - DfMA Construction Innovation

Construction Innovation Design Manager (DfMA)

Location: Technology & Innovation Group, Dartford

The Technology & Innovation (T&I) Group sits at the centre of the Laing O'Rourke group of companies and is a key driver of the transformation of construction. T&I is a highly ambitious, multidisciplinary team bringing together engineering, manufacturing, digital, product development and systems thinking to create the next generation of construction products and delivery models.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a Product Development Design Manager (DfMA) to join the Technology & Innovation team.

This role focuses on leading the development of industrialised construction products, configurable building systems and digitally enabled delivery workflows across a range of DfMA initiatives. You will coordinate multidisciplinary teams spanning engineering, digital, manufacturing and project delivery to transform traditional construction packages into scalable product platforms.

The role combines product development, design management, digital workflows and manufacturing integration, supporting innovation projects from concept development through prototyping, manufacturing implementation and live project deployment.

In This Role, You Will

Lead development of industrialised construction products and systems.Coordinate multidisciplinary product development and technical delivery teams.Support BIM-to-manufacturing and design automation workflows.Help transform project-based construction into scalable platform-based delivery.

Key Responsibilities

Are you an innovator who wants to help shape how buildings are designed and delivered?

This role focuses on driving DfMA-led product development—moving from one-off design to scalable, repeatable systems.

Product Development & DfMA

Lead the development of standardised products, assemblies, and configurable building systemsDefine technical requirements and guide designs from concept through to deliveryChampion DfMA principles and help embed them into everyday workflowsSupport the shift toward productised, platform-based delivery

Design Management & Coordination

Do you thrive in complex, multidisciplinary environments?

Coordinate across engineering, digital, and manufacturing teamsManage design programmes, deliverables, and key technical reviewsOversee system interfaces to ensure seamless integrationSupport prototyping, testing, and real-world implementation on projects

Digital & BIM Workflows

Excited by digital innovation and automation?

Support BIM-enabled workflows and digital delivery approachesContribute to BIM-to-CAM integration and design automationHelp develop connected workflows from design through to manufacture and installation

Manufacturing Integration

Can you bridge the gap between design and production?

Collaborate with manufacturing teams to optimise designs for fabrication and assemblySupport production strategies, logistics planning, and assembly methodologiesEngage with suppliers and specialist partners to deliver practical, buildable solutions

Innovation & Continuous Improvement

Contribute to innovation programmes and new delivery modelsIdentify opportunities for standardisation, automation, and smarter ways of workingPromote knowledge sharing and systems thinking across teams

What We're Looking For

Do you have the experience and mindset to drive change?

Essential

Background in design management, product development, or technical delivery (construction or manufacturing)Strong understanding of DfMA and industrialised constructionExperience coordinating multidisciplinary teamsWorking knowledge of BIM and digital design workflowsUnderstanding of fabrication, manufacturing, or assembly processesStrong communication, organisation, and problem-solving skillsDegree in Architecture, Engineering, Product Design, or similar

Desirable

Experience with modular, off-site, MEP, façade, or precast systemsExposure to BIM-to-CAM or digital manufacturingKnowledge of computational or parametric designExperience with product platforms, configurators, or automation toolsCollaboration with manufacturing or production engineering teams

About Laing O'Rourke

Laing O'Rourke is an international engineering and construction business known for pushing boundaries in digital engineering, modern methods of construction and sustainable delivery. With more than 150 years of heritage, we are committed to creating environments in which diverse teams can excel and thrive.

Accessibility & Inclusion

We are proud to be part of the Disability Confident scheme. If you meet the essential criteria and would like to be considered through our Offer an Interview scheme, please let us know. We're also happy to provide reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process.

If you require an alternative format of this advert or need support during the application, please contact: [email protected]