Freelance Design Manager – Fire Safety Contractor NEW

Position: Freelance Design Manager – Fire Safety
Location: Split between Warrington Office & HMP Haverigg (Cumbria)
Salary: £400-£475 per day (Umbrella PAYE – Inside IR35)
Contract: Freelance, Ongoing
Start Date: ASAP

We are partnering with a premier UK main contractor that specialises in high-profile fit-out, refurbishment, and essential infrastructure upgrades.

On their behalf, we are seeking an experienced Freelance Design Manager to lead critical fire safety improvement works within a secure government environment. This is an excellent opportunity to manage complex, compliance-driven design modifications on a high-stakes, long-term project.

Role Overview

This position requires a dual presence, with time split between the regional project office in Warrington and the project site at HMP Haverigg in Cumbria. You will take full ownership of coordinating the design process for vital fire safety enhancements. Due to the secure nature of the site, active Security Clearance (SC) is mandatory.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and coordinate the entire design process for dedicated fire safety improvement works.
• Ensure all designs strictly comply with Ministry of Justice (MoJ) standards, building regulations, and current fire safety legislation.
• Coordinate complex fire strategies, including compartmentation plans and passive/active fire protection systems.
• Review architectural and engineering drawings to ensure buildability, compliance, and strict security protocol alignment.
• Act as the main point of contact for external design consultants, technical specialists, and client stakeholders.
• Lead design team progress meetings and collaborate closely with onsite commercial and delivery teams to resolve technical issues swiftly.

Requirements

• Security Clearance (SC) is essential.
• Proven experience as a Design Manager within a main contractor environment.
• Strong technical background in fire safety schemes, structural fire upgrades, or passive fire compliance.
• Prior experience working on prison, custodial, or highly secure Ministry of Justice (MoJ) estates is highly desirable.
• Excellent communication and technical coordination skills, with a focus on strict compliance standards.
• Ability to comfortably split time between the Warrington office and the site at HMP Haverigg.

What’s on Offer

• Up to £400-475 per day (Umbrella PAYE – Inside IR35).
• Ongoing, stable freelance contract on a vital infrastructure framework.
• Immediate start available.

If you hold a current SC clearance, possess robust fire safety experience, and want to play a key role in an essential justice estate upgrade, apply today for immediate consideration.