At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead site operations for major civil engineering projects, ensuring safety and efficiency.
- Company: Careys, a leader in delivering complex civil engineering works across the UK.
- Benefits: 26 days holiday, private healthcare, car allowance, and flexible leave options.
- Other info: Opportunities for professional development and a supportive work culture.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and shape infrastructure while driving performance and safety.
- Qualifications: Strong civil engineering experience and proven leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
At Careys, we don’t just deliver construction projects. We self‑deliver complex civil engineering works that shape infrastructure across the UK. From major civils and concrete structures to technically demanding packages, we pride ourselves on doing things properly, safely, and collaboratively.
We are looking for an experienced Construction Manager / Works Manager to lead site operations across major civil engineering projects, ensuring works are delivered safely, efficiently, on programme, and to the highest possible standards. This is a leadership role for someone who thrives in a fast‑paced operational environment, can manage teams effectively, and understands how to drive performance without compromising safety or quality.
The Role
Reporting into the Regional Operations Manager / Construction Director / Contracts Manager, you will take ownership of day‑to‑day site operations from mobilisation through to handover. You’ll be responsible for coordinating labour, plant, subcontractors, logistics, temporary works, and programme delivery while maintaining strong relationships with clients, consultants, and internal teams. This role would suit someone with a strong civils background who can lead from the front, communicate clearly, and keep projects moving in challenging operational environments.
Key Responsibilities
- Project Delivery
- Lead site operations to ensure works are delivered safely, on time, and to specification.
- Manage supervisors, foremen, operatives, subcontractors, and supply chain partners.
- Oversee construction sequencing, logistics, and temporary works activities.
- Deliver daily briefings, toolbox talks, and operational planning meetings.
- Support short‑term programme planning and monitor progress against key milestones.
- Health, Safety & Environment
- Champion SHED principles and maintain the highest standards of safety on site.
- Ensure compliance with RAMS, permits, lifting plans, CDM regulations, and client procedures.
- Conduct site inspections and ensure safe systems of work are consistently followed.
- Support onboarding, inductions, and coaching of new starters.
- Promote a proactive safety culture focused on engagement and continuous improvement.
- Quality & Technical
- Ensure works are completed to specification and in line with QA/QC procedures.
- Support design reviews and technical coordination activities.
- Oversee temporary works in accordance with Carey procedures and engineering requirements.
- Monitor workmanship standards and close out non‑conformances effectively.
- Commercial & Operational Performance
- Monitor labour, plant, and production outputs.
- Support project budgeting and cost control activities.
- Identify delays, variations, and operational risks early.
- Produce accurate labour allocation sheets and progress reporting.
- Work closely with commercial and operational teams to drive project performance.
- Leadership & Team Management
- Lead and motivate operational teams to achieve high performance standards.
- Set clear expectations and maintain accountability across site teams.
- Build collaborative working relationships with clients, stakeholders, and internal departments.
- Support the development and progression of operatives and supervisors.
What We’re Looking For
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
- Essential
- Strong experience within civil engineering, groundworks, RC frame, infrastructure, or related sectors.
- Proven experience in a Construction Manager, Works Manager, General Foreman, or senior operational leadership role.
- Experience managing multidisciplinary site teams on complex projects.
- Strong understanding of temporary works, programme delivery, logistics, and construction sequencing.
- SMSTS.
- IOSH.
- CSCS Black Card.
- First Aid.
- Temporary Works Coordinator experience or certification.
- Strong communication and leadership skills.
- Desirable
- NEBOSH Construction Certificate.
- Lean Construction or Continuous Improvement training.
- Mental Health First Aid / Wellbeing Champion training.
- BIM or digital construction awareness.
Benefits
- 26 days’ holiday plus bank holidays, with the flexibility to buy or sell leave.
- Private healthcare and a Health Care Cash Plan.
- Car allowance.
- Company pension.
- Life assurance.
- Volunteering days through the Careys Foundation or causes important to you.
- Cycle to Work scheme.
- Car leasing scheme.
- Discounted gym membership.
- A range of retail discounts and cashback plans.
Construction Manager employer: Careys
At Careys, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Wigan where safety and collaboration are at the forefront of our operations. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through comprehensive training opportunities and a supportive culture that encourages leadership and teamwork. With competitive benefits including private healthcare, generous holiday allowances, and volunteering days, we ensure our Construction Managers thrive both professionally and personally while contributing to impactful civil engineering projects across the UK.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Construction Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the construction industry, attend local events, and join relevant online groups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your leadership skills! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, highlight your experience managing teams and driving performance. Share specific examples of how you've led projects to success while keeping safety and quality at the forefront.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge. Be ready to discuss civil engineering principles, project delivery methods, and safety regulations. This will show that you're not just a people manager but also someone who understands the nitty-gritty of the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our team. Make sure to tailor your application to reflect your experience in civil engineering and your passion for delivering high-quality projects.
We think you need these skills to ace Construction Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Construction Manager role. Highlight your experience in civil engineering and any leadership roles you've held. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of how you've led teams and delivered projects safely and efficiently.
Showcase Your Safety Knowledge:Safety is key in construction, so be sure to mention your qualifications like SMSTS and IOSH. We love candidates who can demonstrate a proactive approach to health and safety on site.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get you in the running for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Careys
✨Know Your Projects Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the projects Careys has worked on, especially in civil engineering. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their project delivery methods and safety standards.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Construction Manager, you'll need to lead teams effectively. Prepare examples of how you've motivated teams in the past, handled conflicts, and ensured high performance while maintaining safety and quality.
✨Emphasise Safety and Compliance
Safety is paramount in construction. Be prepared to discuss your experience with SHED principles, RAMS, and compliance with regulations. Highlight any specific instances where you improved safety standards on site.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions about construction sequencing, logistics, and temporary works. Brush up on your technical knowledge and be ready to explain how you've managed these aspects in previous roles, showcasing your problem-solving skills.
