At a Glance
- Tasks: Support Contract Managers in coordinating and managing construction projects from start to finish.
- Company: Join a family-run construction company with a rich history and a focus on quality.
- Benefits: Enjoy 20 days holiday, pension scheme, and opportunities for career growth.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with excellent progression opportunities in various management roles.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in construction management and make a real impact on projects.
- Qualifications: Strong organisational skills and a proactive attitude are essential; experience in admin or project support is a plus.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Location: SG1 4QX - Stevenage, Hertfordshire
Salary: Competitive
Job Type: Full time, Permanent
Working Hours: 40 Hours Per Week, Monday to Friday 08:00 - 17:00
About us:
Garrard Building and Construction Ltd is a family run construction company established in 1946. The Company specialises in building repair and renovation to domestic and commercial properties within an approximate 50-mile radius of our offices in Stevenage, Hertfordshire. We are a specialist construction and property repair company delivering insured building repairs on behalf of insurers, loss adjusters, housing providers, and private clients. Our projects range from minor reinstatement works to major property repairs following subsidence, fire, flood, escape of water, impact, and other insured events. We pride ourselves on delivering high-quality repairs, excellent customer service, and efficient project management.
About the Role:
The Assistant Contract Manager will provide administrative, operational, and project support to multiple Contract Managers and repair teams across a portfolio of insured building repair projects. The role is ideal for an organised and proactive individual looking to develop a career in construction management, insurance reinstatement, and project delivery. The successful candidate will assist in coordinating projects from instruction through to completion, ensuring works are delivered safely, efficiently, within budget, and to the required quality standards while maintaining excellent communication with clients, customers, subcontractors and suppliers.
Career Development:
This role offers an excellent opportunity to develop within a growing construction business, with progression opportunities into Contract Management, Project Management, Surveying, or Operations Management roles.
Main Duties & Responsibilities:
- Contract & Project Support
- Provide day-to-day support to Contract Managers across multiple live projects
- Assist with planning, scheduling, and coordinating repair works
- Monitor project progress and update internal management systems
- Support the preparation of work programmes and project documentation
- Assist in managing project costs and monitoring budgets
- Help ensure projects are completed within agreed timescales and service level agreements
- Client & Stakeholder Communication
- Act as a point of contact for clients, customers, loss adjusters, and subcontractors
- Provide regular updates regarding project progress
- Respond to customer queries and assist in resolving issues promptly
- Support the management of customer expectations throughout the repair process
- Commercial & Administrative Duties
- Raise purchase orders and subcontractor instructions
- Assist with valuations, variations, and invoicing processes
- Maintain accurate project records and documentation
- Support the preparation of reports and performance data
- Ensure all project files are up to date and compliant
- Health, Safety & Compliance
- Assist in ensuring projects comply with company health and safety procedures
- Maintain records relating to risk assessments, method statements, and site documentation
- Support compliance with company policies, insurance requirements, and industry regulations
- Promote safe working practices across all projects
- Operational Support
- Assist with general project administration
- Assist with material ordering and delivery schedules
- Support site inspections and quality control processes where required
- Work collaboratively with all other team members
About you:
Essential
- Previous experience in an administrative, coordinator, assistant project management, or construction support role
- Strong organisational and time management skills
- Excellent communication and customer service abilities
- Good IT skills including Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities simultaneously
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy
- Full UK driving licence
Desirable
- Experience within construction, property maintenance, facilities management, or insurance reinstatement
- Knowledge of insured building repairs and claims processes
- Understanding of construction contracts and project management principles
- Experience using job management or construction software systems
Personal Attributes
- Professional and customer-focused
- Proactive and willing to learn
- Able to work effectively both independently and as part of a team
- Strong problem-solving skills
- Adaptable and capable of working in a fast-paced environment
- Positive attitude with a commitment to delivering excellent service
Benefits:
The benefits package includes a standard entitlement of 20 days paid holiday per year (in addition to the 8 UK Bank and Public holidays) and access to a pension scheme following a qualifying period.
The Company is committed to diversity and equality of opportunity for all and is opposed to any form of less favourable treatment and harassment on the grounds of all the 'protected characteristics' as identified by the Equality Act 2010.
Trainee Contract Manager in Watford employer: Garrard Building and Construction Limited
Garrard Building and Construction Ltd is an excellent employer that fosters a supportive and collaborative work culture, ideal for those looking to grow in the construction industry. With a commitment to employee development, the company offers clear pathways for career progression into roles such as Contract Management and Project Management, all while providing a competitive benefits package and a family-oriented atmosphere in the heart of Stevenage.
Contact Details:
Garrard Building and Construction Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee Contract Manager in Watford
✨Get Hands-On with Local Projects
Dive into local construction projects or volunteer for community builds. It’s a great way to pick up skills, meet professionals, and show off your dedication since the construction field values practical experience as much as academic knowledge.
✨Connect at Construction Events
Keep an eye out for local trade shows, career fairs, and construction expos in your area. These events are golden opportunities to network with industry folks, learn about companies like Garrard Building and Construction Limited, and even potentially snag a trainee position.
✨Show Off Your Skills on Social Media
Utilise platforms like Instagram or TikTok to showcase your passion for construction. Share posts of projects you’ve worked on or your learning journey. Companies notice candidates with a visible passion, and it might just catch the eye of someone at Garrard Building and Construction Limited!
✨Apply Early and Often!
Trainee positions often pop up during specific recruitment windows, so keep your eyes peeled and apply through our website promptly. Remember, reaching out to companies directly, like Garrard Building and Construction Limited, can also show initiative and increase your chances of landing that trainee spot!
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Contract Manager in Watford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show off your education and training:For a trainee role in construction, highlighting any relevant education, training or certifications is key. If you’ve got a construction-related qualification or have completed any vocational training, make sure to feature that prominently in your CV!
Hands-on experience counts!:Even if you haven't worked full-time in construction yet, any hands-on experience can give you a leg up. If you've ever done work experience, internships, or even home projects related to construction, mention them! This shows your enthusiasm and commitment to learning.
Speak to your motivation in your cover letter:As a trainee, employers want to see your eagerness to learn and grow in this field. Use your cover letter to express passion for construction and what interests you about the role at Garrard Building and Construction Limited. Let them know why you’re excited to start your career in construction!
Emphasise teamwork and communication skills:Construction is all about teamwork! Make sure your application highlights any experience you have working in teams or communicating effectively with others. This is crucial for a role like this, so showcase any group projects or collaborative efforts you’ve been involved in.
How to prepare for a job interview at Garrard Building and Construction Limited
✨Dive Into Safety Protocols
In construction, safety is paramount. Brush up on key safety regulations and procedures relevant to the role you're applying for at Garrard Building and Construction Limited. Showing that you understand and prioritise safety can set you apart from other trainees.
✨Show Off Your Willingness to Learn
As a trainee, your eagerness to learn is crucial. Be prepared to discuss your past experiences related to construction – even if they are just DIY projects or volunteering on-site. It helps to showcase your passion and how you adapt to new environments.
✨Know the Tools of the Trade
Familiarise yourself with the common tools and machinery used in construction. At Garrard Building and Construction Limited, you might be questioned about specific tools or equipment you’ve encountered. Having a basic understanding of how they work can really impress your interviewers.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect some practical scenarios during your interview. You might be asked how you would handle certain situations on-site, such as resolving conflicts or ensuring safety compliance. Think of a few examples in advance that show your problem-solving abilities.
