Lead Designer

Lead Designer – Bedford

I am currently recruiting for a Lead Designer to join a well-established steelwork company based in Bedford. The business delivers a variety of structural and architectural steelwork projects across London and the Home Counties, ranging from large-scale structural frames to bespoke architectural metalwork.

The Role:

As the Lead Designer, you will be responsible for overseeing the full design process on multiple projects, managing a small design team, and ensuring all work is accurate, compliant, and delivered to client requirements. This is a senior, hands-on role where you’ll coordinate between engineers, draughtsmen, project managers, and clients to ensure designs are both practical and efficient for fabrication and installation.

Key Duties:

* Leading the design process on structural and architectural steelwork projects from concept through to completion

* Managing and mentoring draughtsmen and junior designers within the design office

* Producing and reviewing detailed GA drawings, fabrication drawings, and 3D models

* Ensuring all designs meet relevant building codes, standards, and client specifications

* Preparing and checking Bills of Materials, cutting lists, and fabrication information

* Liaising with structural engineers, architects, project managers, and site teams to resolve design queries

* Coordinating with the production and workshop teams to ensure designs are practical for manufacture

* Attending client meetings and site visits as required to support project delivery

* Monitoring project design schedules to ensure deadlines are met

* Driving quality, accuracy, and efficiency across all design output

The Candidate:

* Proven experience as a Designer/Lead Designer within the structural and architectural steelwork industry

* Proficiency in relevant steelwork detailing and modelling software (Tekla Structures, Advance Steel, or AutoCAD)

* Strong understanding of steel fabrication and installation processes

* Ability to lead a design team and coordinate multiple live projects

* Excellent communication and problem-solving skills

* High attention to detail with the ability to manage workloads and meet deadlines

Location & Projects:

* Office-based in Bedford

* Projects located across London and the Home Counties

This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced steelwork designer to step into a lead role within a respected and growing company, taking ownership of the design department and delivering high-quality projects