Job Description

Graduate Design Engineer
Role Overview
The Design Graduate supports the engineering and design team in developing high-quality technical designs, drawings, and documentation. The role provides exposure to all stages of the design lifecycle from concept development through to construction delivery -- while building core engineering competencies and working towards professional accreditation.
Duties and Responsibilities
Design & Technical Support

• Assist in producing design calculations, drawings, and visualisations under supervision.
• Support development of concept, outline, and detailed designs.
• Contribute to design reviews, risk assessments, and constructability assessments.
• Interpret technical standards, specifications, and client requirements.
• Carry out basic modelling, CAD work, and data analysis.

Documentation & Reporting

• Prepare design reports, technical notes, schedules, and design change documentation.
• Maintain accurate version control of drawings and design files.
• Support preparation of tender documents and engineering deliverables.

Coordination & Collaboration

• Work closely with engineers, project managers, planners, and construction teams.
• Liaise with clients, suppliers, and external stakeholders as needed.
• Participate in multidisciplinary meetings to ensure design intent is understood.

Site Support

• Attend site visits to collect data, understand construction constraints, and support surveys.
• Provide technical assistance to site teams where required.

Compliance & Quality

• Follow industry codes, standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Ensure designs meet environmental, health & safety, and statutory obligations.
• Support continuous improvement and innovation in design processes.

Qualifications and Skills

• Degree in Engineering, Design, Construction, Architecture, or relevant discipline.
• Basic understanding of design principles and engineering processes.
• Competent with CAD software (AutoCAD, Revit, Civil 3D, MicroStation etc.).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively and manage time effectively.

What We Value
We value our commitment to each other, summed up in our five values, we all sign up to these... We care about safety. We lead with integrity. We strive to be better every day. We make a positive impact. We deliver to grow. We are one company united.
Our Aim & Vision at OCU
To be the UK's leading energy transition and utilities contractor.
We are committed to leading the way in utilities and energy transition contracting, our mission is to innovate and deliver sustainability. At OCU, our passion for addressing complex challenges brings new standards of growth in our people and capabilities. OCU is an equal opportunities employer.
Established in 1994, OCU Group is one of the fastest growing utility engineering contractors in the UK, with a long successful track record in delivering customer-focused civil engineering solutions.
Working directly with many of the country's leading blue-chip power, water, telecoms and rail clients, we are looking for the very best talent to join our growing team.
We pride ourselves on empowering our employees and offering opportunities for them to take control of their own personal development and career progression in a supportive environment.
We believe that being successful is a choice.
We choose to be successful.
We are OCU, 'One Company United'.

Skills Required