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Current Opportunities

Design & Project Lead – Full Time
Location: Ashton-under-Lyne​​​

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We are looking for an experienced and commercially aware Design and Project Lead to join our busy manufacturing team on a full-time, permanent basis.

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About the role:

This is a hands-on leadership position combining technical design, project management and coordination of the design function.

You will oversee projects from initial concept and client brief through to manufacture and installation, ensuring that designs are accurate, practical and commercially achievable. You will also support and guide the design team, coordinate with internal departments and act as a key point of contact for clients, contractors and suppliers throughout project delivery.

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Key responsibilities:

• Leading and coordinating the day-to-day activities of the design team

• Producing and reviewing detailed technical drawings for manufacture

• Managing projects from initial brief through to production, delivery and installation

• Translating client requirements into practical and commercially viable design solutions

• Reviewing specifications, site information and approved drawings

• Planning design workloads and monitoring project deadlines

• Coordinating with clients, contractors, suppliers and internal departments

• Working closely with estimating, production and installation teams

• Identifying and resolving technical or design-related issues

• Attending client meetings and carrying out site surveys where required

• Monitoring project progress, costs, variations and programme requirements

• Ensuring drawings and manufactured equipment meet the required quality standards

• Supporting the continued development of design processes and team capability

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About you:

• Strong experience in technical design within stainless-steel fabrication, commercial catering equipment, sheet metalwork or a related manufacturing environment

• Previous experience managing projects from design through to installation

• Confident reading, producing and reviewing detailed engineering drawings

• Experience using SolidWorks or comparable 3D CAD software

• Able to lead, support and develop a technical design team

• Commercially aware, with an understanding of manufacturing methods, materials and project costs

• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple live projects

• Confident communicating with clients, contractors, suppliers and colleagues

• Practical, solutions-focused and comfortable working in a fast-paced environment

• Excellent attention to detail and a strong commitment to quality

• A full UK driving licence

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Get in touch: sales@gkf-ltd.co.uk

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