Graduate Design Manager

ARC Group

Job Title: Graduate Design Manager
Location: Cambridge
Salary: £30-£35k + Benefits + Career Development
Job Type: Full-time, Permanent

About the Role

We are recruiting on behalf of a leading commercial construction main contractor seeking a driven Graduate Design Manager to join their growing project team. This is an outstanding opportunity for a recent graduate looking to begin a career at the intersection of design, construction, and project delivery.

Working closely with Senior Design Managers, project teams, consultants, and subcontractors, you will support the coordination and management of the design process from pre-construction through to project completion, ensuring designs are practical, compliant, and deliverable on site.

Key Responsibilities

Assist in coordinating architectural, engineering, and consultant design teams

Support the management of design programmes and information flow

Review drawings and technical submissions under supervision

Help ensure designs meet project specifications, regulations, and buildability requirements

Attend design team meetings and record actions and progress updates

Liaise with site teams to resolve design queries (RFIs)

Support document control and design change management processes

What We’re Looking For

Degree in Construction Management, Architecture, Architectural Technology, Civil Engineering, or a related discipline

Strong interest in design coordination within the construction industry

Good technical understanding of construction methods and design processes (academic or placement experience)

Excellent communication and organisational skills

Strong attention to detail and problem-solving ability

Proficiency in Microsoft Office; familiarity with CAD/BIM software advantageous

What’s on Offer

Structured graduate development programme

Mentoring from experienced Design Managers and industry professionals

Clear progression pathway to Design Manager level

Exposure to large-scale commercial construction projects 

Support toward professional accreditation (e.g., CIOB, RIBA, ICE, CIAT)

Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package

To be considered for this position, please apply with your CV or for more information please contact Jenny Saban in our Cambridge office