The Opportunity We are seeking an experienced Resident Engineer / Clerk of Works to provide site-wide quality oversight on a major, high-profile construction development in South Wales. The project involves the delivery of a large-scale indoor entertainment and events venue, requiring a thorough, coordinated approach to workmanship, specification compliance and quality assurance across multiple construction disciplines. This is a site-wide role rather than a discipline-specific inspection position. The successful candidate will monitor works across the project, identify defects, assess compliance with approved drawings and specifications, and provide clear, independent reporting to the project team. We require an established construction professional who can work autonomously, communicate effectively with contractors and site management, and confidently challenge poor workmanship or non-compliant work. Membership of the Institution of Civil Engineers (MICE) or the Institute of Clerks of Works and Construction Inspectorate (MICWIC) is essential. Key Responsibilities Undertake regular, systematic site inspections across multiple construction work packages. Monitor workmanship and compliance against approved drawings, specifications, project requirements and applicable standards. Identify defects, incomplete works, poor workmanship and departures from the approved design. Produce accurate site inspection reports, photographic records, defect schedules and recommendations for corrective action. Monitor the progress of remedial works and verify that identified defects have been satisfactorily addressed. Review relevant drawings, specifications, method statements, inspection and test plans and quality documentation. Liaise with site management, engineers, subcontractors, consultants and client representatives to resolve technical and quality issues. Maintain a clear audit trail of observations, inspections, defects and outstanding actions. Escalate significant quality concerns promptly and objectively. Monitor interfaces between different trades and work packages to identify risks to overall construction quality. Provide independent, evidence-based feedback on site quality and compliance throughout the construction process. Maintain a professional, constructive and detail-focused approach while protecting the required quality standards. Essential Requirements Current MICE or MICWIC membership, as specified for this assignment. Substantial experience in site inspection, construction quality assurance, resident engineering or Clerk of Works duties. Proven ability to inspect construction works against technical drawings, specifications and project requirements. Experience identifying defects, documenting non-conformances and monitoring corrective actions. Strong understanding of construction methods, workmanship and quality control across multiple disciplines. Excellent written reporting, record-keeping and communication skills. Confidence operating independently on a busy construction site and challenging non-compliant work professionally. A meticulous approach to detail, evidence gathering and quality assurance. Availability for a freelance assignment in Cardiff. Desirable Experience Previous work on large-scale commercial developments, public venues, arenas, stadiums or other complex construction projects. Experience covering multiple work packages, including structural works, concrete, steelwork, architectural finishes and building interfaces. Familiarity with inspection and test plans, quality management systems and formal defect-management processes. Experience working for a client, engineering consultancy, construction inspectorate or main contractor in an independent inspection capacity. The Ideal Candidate You may currently be working as a Resident Engineer, Clerk of Works, Construction Inspector, Site Inspector, Quality Inspector or Senior Site Engineer. You will be technically confident, highly organised and capable of providing independent oversight across the wider site rather than concentrating on a single trade or construction package. This is an experienced freelance appointment, not a graduate or entry-level position. Apply Now Please submit your CV detailing your MICE or MICWIC membership, relevant site-wide inspection experience, previous projects, availability and required freelance day rate. Freelance engagement only
Freelance Resident Engineer / Clerk of Works in Cardiff employer: Fawkes & Reece London
Join a leading Tier 1 contractor in Central London, where you will thrive in a dynamic and high-energy environment while contributing to impactful projects across various sectors. With a strong focus on employee growth, the company offers competitive salaries, hybrid working options, and comprehensive benefits including private healthcare and opportunities for further qualifications. Experience a vibrant work culture that values collaboration and innovation, making it an excellent place for ambitious professionals looking to make a difference in the construction industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Freelance Resident Engineer / Clerk of Works in Cardiff
✨Join Local Construction Groups
Tap into local construction communities and forums—think Facebook groups, Meetup, or even LinkedIn. These platforms often have job postings specifically for freelancers and can connect you with potential clients who are looking for your skills.
✨Show Off Your Work
Create a public portfolio showcasing your previous projects. This could be through a personal website or platforms like Behance. Potential clients want to see what you can do, so let your best work do the talking!
✨Network at Construction Events
Get out there and attend construction trade shows and local networking events. These are great for making connections and can often lead directly to freelance opportunities, plus you get to meet people who share your passion for the industry.
✨Utilise Online Freelance Platforms
Don't forget to get on freelance job platforms like Upwork and Freelancer that cater to construction gigs. Build your profile there and start bidding on projects. It’s a solid way to get the ball rolling on your freelance journey!
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Craft:In the construction field, it's all about your hands-on experience and the projects you've worked on. Make sure to include detailed descriptions of past projects in your CV or portfolio. Highlight specific skills, tools, and techniques you’ve mastered that are relevant to the work you're applying for at Fawkes & Reece London.
Provide a Portfolio:As this is a freelance role, having a solid portfolio is key! Include photos and descriptions of your previous work so potential clients can see what you bring to the table. Showcasing a variety of projects can really help demonstrate your versatility in the construction industry.
Clarify Your Availability and Rates:Freelancing is all about communication, so be clear about your availability and rates in your application. Let Fawkes & Reece London know when you can start and what your pricing structure looks like. This helps set the right expectations and shows you’re professional and organised.
Highlight Relevant Certifications:In construction, having the right certifications can set you apart. Mention any industry-relevant qualifications you have, such as health and safety certifications or trade-specific licenses. This not only bolsters your CV but also shows you've got the expertise to get the job done safely and effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at Fawkes & Reece London
✨Showcase Your Project Portfolio
For a freelance role in construction, we should prepare a strong portfolio demonstrating our previous work. Highlight completed projects, showcasing not just the end result but also the problem-solving skills and tools we used during construction. This visual evidence can really set us apart!
✨Know Your Tools and Techniques
Understanding the latest construction tools and techniques is essential for standing out. Familiarise ourselves with current methodologies and any new software that's relevant to the industry. If we can discuss how we've used these tools in previous projects, it’ll show that we’re on the ball and ready to hit the ground running.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
During the interview, we might face practical questions related to site management or problem-solving on the job. Be ready to discuss specific challenges we've faced in past projects and how we overcame them. This will demonstrate our ability to think on our feet and handle the real-world pressures of the construction field.
✨Pitch Your Rates and Work Style
As freelancers, we need to be clear about our rates and working style. Be prepared to discuss our pricing strategy based on past projects. This is not just about the numbers but conveying the value we bring to potential clients like Fawkes & Reece London. Confidence in our worth can go a long way in these discussions!
