Project Manager in Gateshead

Location: North East
Salary: Negotiable
Contract Type: Contract (Permanent Considered) – Working pattern: 40 hours per week | Hybrid (60% office based)

We\’re recruiting on behalf of a specialist rail consultancy for an experienced Rail Project Manager to support the delivery of complex rail enhancement projects across York and the North East. This role can be offered on a permanent basis, and our client will also consider contractors.

About the opportunity

This is a chance to join a growing, values-led consultancy environment where people are supported to develop and progress. You\’ll work collaboratively with a strong team and play a key role in delivering a varied portfolio of high-profile rail schemes.

Current projects include major station upgrades, re-signalling, new station buildings and enhancement works, alongside technical and advisory services on major programmes.

The role

As Rail Project Manager, you\’ll help plan, coordinate and deliver multi-disciplinary projects, managing operational railway interfaces and ensuring safe, compliant delivery from start to finish.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the development and delivery of high-value, multi-disciplinary rail projects, managing risks that affect the operational railway.
• Manage interfaces with internal and external stakeholders, ensuring compliance with governance and assurance requirements.
• Support compliance with relevant rail legislation and obligations, ensuring project outputs and deliverables are achieved.
• Interpret client scope and programme requirements, turning these into clear operational interface needs and practical solutions to support timely decision making.
• Work with CDM and duty holders to ensure compliance with CDM Regulations.
• Secure and coordinate resources, report progress against milestones, and manage contingency actions when required.
• Support alignment across organisations on infrastructure change proposals in line with CSM-RA requirements.
• Track, assess and report on project performance and risk across the full project lifecycle.
• Capture lessons learned and agree mitigation actions with stakeholders to strengthen project proposals.
• Build strong stakeholder relationships, manage expectations and advocate for project objectives.
• Identify clashes or conflicting activities, driving coordinated delivery and efficiency.
• Support investigations into accidents, incidents and close calls, ensuring learning is shared appropriately.

What we\’re looking for

Essential

• Degree qualified in Project Management or a related discipline.
• APM membership (or working towards).
• PRINCE2 Foundation (or equivalent).
• Strong knowledge of the operational railway and rail infrastructure.
• Proven delivery experience in a rail project environment.
• Understanding of programme controls and commercial requirements.
• Knowledge of HSE legislation and requirements including CDM and CSM-RA.
• Experience managing project budgets.
• Knowledge of rail possessions and isolations.

Desirable

• Experience delivering third-party projects on Network Rail infrastructure.
• Knowledge of the Network Rail Asset Protection Process.
• Full project lifecycle delivery experience.
• Consultancy background (1-2 years within a project management consultancy setting).

What\’s on offer

• Competitive rates or salary (dependent on experience)
• Hybrid working (60% office based) and flexibility where possible
• Strong benefits package including annual leave entitlement, private medical cover, healthcare cash plan, bonus and volunteering days
• Clear development pathways and support for professional qualifications
• Inclusive, people-first culture with a recruitment process that focuses on more than just a CV

Interested?

Apply via this advert or contact us for a confidential conversation. We\’ll share full details (including the employer) with suitable candidates at the appropriate stage