Facade Designer

Job Description: Façade Designer

Location: Derry City (office‑based)

Pay: £45,000 - £60,000 per year

Reports To: Design Manager / Technical Manager

Role Overview

The Façade Designer is responsible for the technical design and coordination of façade systems from concept through to construction. This role involves developing safe, compliant, and buildable façade solutions while coordinating with architects, engineers, contractors, and suppliers in line with UK & Ireland regulations and project programmes.

Key Responsibilities:

Façade Design & Technical Delivery

• Design and develop façade systems including:
• Curtain walling
• Rainscreen cladding
• Aluminium and glazing systems
• Unitised and stick systems
• Integrated façade elements (brise soleil, louvres, balconies)
• Produce detailed:
• GA drawings
• Sections and details
• Setting‑out information
• Fabrication and installation drawings
• Ensure designs meet:
• Architectural intent
• Structural, thermal, acoustic, and fire performance requirements
• Buildability and installation sequencing

Regulatory & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with:
• UK & Ireland Building Regulations
• Approved Document B (Fire Safety)
• Approved Document L (Energy Efficiency)
• CWCT standards and guidance
• Relevant British Standards (BS / EN)
• Support documentation required under:
• Building Safety Act
• Golden Thread information
• Contractor Design Portion (CDP)
• Contribute to design risk assessments and mitigation measures

Coordination & Collaboration

• Liaise with:
• Architects and façade consultants
• Structural and MEP engineers
• Main contractors
• Fabricators and installers
• Coordinate façade designs with:
• Primary structure
• Interfaces with cladding, roofing, and glazing
• BIM models and clash detection processes
• Attend design team meetings and technical workshops

Project & Commercial Support

• Assist with design development during tender stage
• Support value engineering and alternative design proposals
• Respond to RFIs and technical queries
• Incorporate design changes efficiently during delivery
• Support handover of design information to site teams

Key Skills & Experience

Essential

• Proven experience as a Façade Designer or Façade Engineer
• Strong understanding of façade systems, materials, and interfaces
• Ability to interpret architectural and engineering drawings
• Proficient in:
• AutoCAD (essential)
• BIM/Revit (desirable)
• Good knowledge of UK building regulations and fire performance requirements
• Strong technical detailing and problem‑solving skills

Desirable

• Experience working for:
• Façade contractors / consultancies
• Cladding specialists
• Familiarity with:
• CWCT testing regimes
• Thermal modelling and condensation risk

Qualifications

• Degree or HND in:
• Architecture
• Architectural Technology
• Civil / Structural Engineering
• Façade Engineering

(or equivalent practical experience)

Personal Attributes

• High attention to detail
• Strong communication skills
• Organised and deadline‑focused
• Proactive approach to design risk and compliance
• Able to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team

Salary & Benefits

• Competitive salary (DOE)
• Pension contribution
• Phone / laptop
• Career development and progression

Work Location: In Person