At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead highway works and ensure safe, efficient delivery of maintenance programmes.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking council dedicated to community service and infrastructure improvement.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working hours, generous leave, and wellbeing support.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive team with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while driving innovation in public services.
- Qualifications: Extensive management experience in highways or infrastructure is essential.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Works Manager to lead the operational delivery of highway works across the county. This is a pivotal leadership role responsible for ensuring the safe, efficient, and high-quality delivery of planned, reactive, and emergency highway maintenance and improvement programmes. As Works Manager, you will provide strategic oversight and day-to-day management of a diverse workforce, overseeing everything from winter maintenance and flooding response to structural repairs and street lighting installation. You will play a key role in ensuring operational resilience, particularly in response to adverse weather events and emergencies, while driving innovation and continuous improvement. You will deputise for the Highway Operations Manager in strategic forums and public engagements, and work collaboratively with internal teams, external partners, and community stakeholders to deliver a service that protects and enhances the council’s reputation.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage operational delivery teams across a wide range of highway works.
- Ensure compliance with health and safety, environmental legislation, and statutory obligations.
- Oversee emergency response and resilience planning for adverse weather and incidents.
- Manage budgets, resources, and commercial contracts to ensure value for money.
- Champion innovation, digital tools, and efficient construction methods.
- Engage with residents, elected members, and partners to communicate works programmes and respond to service enquiries.
About You
- Extensive senior management experience in highways or infrastructure delivery.
- Proven leadership in high-risk operational environments.
- Strong knowledge of highways engineering, CDM regulations, and relevant legislation.
- Excellent planning, programme management, and stakeholder engagement skills.
- A commitment to health and safety, continuous improvement, and public service values.
Essential Qualifications
- Relevant professional qualification or extensive managerial experience in construction/maintenance.
- Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS).
- Demonstrable experience in budget management, emergency response, and operational strategy.
Desirable
- Membership of professional bodies such as ICE or IHT.
- Traffic Management Qualification, IOSH or NEBOSH certification.
- Experience with GIS mapping tools and advanced asset management systems.
Support & Benefits
- Flexi Time Scheme: Up to two days flexi leave every four weeks (pro rata for part-time employees), subject to service needs.
- Generous Annual Leave Scheme: Ensures a healthy work-life balance.
- Local Government Pension Scheme: Provides financial security.
- Wellbeing Support Framework: Includes OH physician services, physiotherapy, CBT, and in-house counseling.
- Employee Wellbeing Support: Fast track physiotherapy, confidential psychological support services, Employee Assistance Programme, and “Wisdom” app.
- Electric/Plug-in Hybrid Vehicle Salary Sacrifice Scheme: Encourages environmentally friendly commuting options.
- Our Derbyshire Rewards: a package of benefits and discounts.
If you are a strategic thinker, a visible leader, and passionate about delivering high-quality public services, we’d love to hear from you!
Closing Date: Sunday 1st February 2026
To apply please click the Apply Now link below.
Works Manager employer: Highways Magazine
As a Works Manager with us, you will join a forward-thinking organisation that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional growth. Our supportive work culture fosters innovation and collaboration, ensuring you have the resources and flexibility to excel in your role while contributing to meaningful public service. With benefits like a generous annual leave scheme, a local government pension, and a commitment to health and safety, we provide an environment where you can thrive both personally and professionally.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Works Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend local events, join relevant groups on social media, and don’t be shy about reaching out to current employees at companies you’re interested in. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Familiarise yourself with their recent works and challenges they face in highway management. This will not only impress your interviewers but also help you tailor your answers to show how you can contribute to their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed teams and projects in high-risk environments. Highlight your experience with budget management and emergency response, as these are key aspects of the Works Manager role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us. So, hit that 'Apply Now' button and let’s get the conversation started!
We think you need these skills to ace Works Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience mentioned in the job description. Highlight your leadership roles and any relevant projects you've managed, especially in highways or infrastructure.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell us why you're the perfect fit for the Works Manager role. Share specific examples of how you've successfully led teams and managed budgets in high-risk environments.
Showcase Your Qualifications:Don’t forget to mention your professional qualifications and any relevant certifications like SMSTS or traffic management. This is your chance to shine and show us you meet the essential criteria!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Highways Magazine
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of highways engineering and relevant legislation. Familiarise yourself with CDM regulations and be ready to discuss how you've applied these in past roles. This will show that you're not just a leader, but also someone who understands the technical side of the job.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in high-risk operational environments. Think about specific challenges you've faced and how you managed them. This will demonstrate your ability to lead diverse teams effectively, especially during emergencies or adverse weather conditions.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Be ready to talk about your experience in stakeholder engagement. Highlight instances where you've communicated effectively with residents, elected members, or partners. This is crucial for the role, so showing that you can build relationships and manage expectations will set you apart.
✨Emphasise Innovation and Improvement
Discuss any innovative strategies or digital tools you've implemented in previous roles. Talk about how you've driven continuous improvement in operational processes. This aligns perfectly with the council's goals and shows that you're forward-thinking and adaptable.
