At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead exciting construction projects from start to finish, ensuring top-notch delivery and client satisfaction.
- Company: Established UK construction firm with a strong reputation in structural steel and fit-out projects.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, travel opportunities, and a chance to work on diverse projects across the UK.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the construction industry while developing your leadership and project management skills.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in structural steel or construction, strong communication, and project management skills required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
Location
Portsmouth (with UK-wide travel as required)
Reporting to
- Operations Director
- Our client
A well-established UK construction and engineering business specialising in structural steel and commercial fit-out projects.
Since the 1970's, they have been delivering projects across a range of commercial and industrial sectors.
The Role
We are seeking an experienced
Contracts & Engineering Manager to take ownership of the successful delivery of construction projects from contract award through to completion.
This role is responsible for all aspects of project delivery, including design coordination, programme management, procurement, subcontractor management, commercial control, health and safety compliance, client liaison and financial performance.
You will ensure projects are delivered safely, on time, within budget and to the exceptionally high standards expected by the business and our clients.
The position involves regular interaction with clients, architects, structural engineers, building control officers, principal contractors, subcontractors and internal departments.
Key Responsibilities
Project Management
- Manage multiple construction projects simultaneously from order receipt through to practical completion.
- Develop and maintain detailed project programmes and monitor progress against key milestones.
- Coordinate surveys, design activities, manufacturing, procurement and installation works.
- Ensure projects are delivered safely, on programme and within agreed budgets.
- Identify project risks and implement mitigation strategies.
- Manage project variations and change control procedures.
- Chair and lead project meetings with clients, contractors, consultants and internal stakeholders.
- Provide regular project updates to senior management.
- Review structural designs, calculations and drawings for compliance with project requirements.
- Coordinate activities between clients, architects, structural engineers and internal design teams.
- Ensure designs comply with relevant British Standards, Building Regulations, CDM Regulations and industry best practice.
- Review and approve technical documentation before issue.
- Assist in resolving technical and engineering challenges throughout the project lifecycle.
Commercial Management
- Monitor project costs, budgets and financial performance.
- Review subcontractor quotations and procurement packages.
- Manage contract variations and ensure appropriate commercial recovery.
- Support the preparation of applications for payment and final accounts.
- Produce monthly financial reports for projects under management.
- Present project financial performance to senior management.
Client Relationship Management
- Act as the primary point of contact for clients throughout project delivery.
- Develop strong working relationships with clients, consultants and supply chain partners.
- Manage client expectations and maintain high levels of customer satisfaction.
- Resolve project issues promptly and professionally.
- Identify opportunities for repeat business and additional works.
Subcontractor & Supply Chain Management
- Appoint, coordinate and manage subcontractors and suppliers.
- Monitor subcontractor performance against programme, quality and safety requirements.
- Ensure subcontractors operate in accordance with company procedures and standards.
- Manage procurement schedules to support project delivery requirements.
Health, Safety, Quality & Compliance
- Ensure all projects are delivered in compliance with current health and safety legislation.
- Support the implementation of CDM requirements.
- Review RAMS and construction phase documentation.
- Conduct site visits and audits as required.
- Promote a positive safety culture across all projects.
- Ensure quality standards are maintained throughout project delivery.
Qualifications & Experience
- Higher National Diploma (HND), Higher Diploma or equivalent qualification in Structural Engineering, Civil Engineering or a related discipline.
- Minimum 5 years' experience within structural steel design, steel construction or related construction sectors.
- Strong understanding of structural steelwork and construction methodologies.
- Experience managing multiple construction projects simultaneously.
- Excellent commercial awareness and project financial management skills.
- Experience dealing directly with clients, architects, consultants and subcontractors.
- Strong communication, negotiation and leadership skills.
- Full UK driving licence.
- Degree in Structural Engineering, Civil Engineering or Construction Management.
- CSCS Managers Card.
- Knowledge of Building Regulations, CDM Regulations and EN1090 requirements.
- Technical Skills
The successful candidate will be proficient in
- Auto CAD
- Microsoft Excel and Office Suite
- Structural design software packages such as: Master Series, TEDDS, Tekla Structural Designer
The candidate should also possess a strong understanding of
- Structural calculations
- Building Regulations
- Construction programming
- Contract administration
- Financial reporting and budget control
- Personal Attributes
The successful candidate will demonstrate
- Strong leadership and organisational skills.
- Excellent attention to detail.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Strong problem-solving and decision-making capability.
- Commercial awareness and business acumen.
- Professional and confident communication skills.
- Ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Commitment to delivering exceptional customer service.
- #J-18808-Ljbffr
Locations
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Contracts & Engineering Manager in Hampshire, Portsmouth
✨Join Construction Networks
Get yourself involved in local construction networks or industry events. They often have job boards, and networking can lead to unadvertised positions. Plus, it’s a great way to meet potential future colleagues!
✨Show Off Your Skills on Site
If you’ve done any hands-on work, whether it's through internships or personal projects, make sure you can showcase it. Consider volunteering for local construction projects or getting involved in community build days; it’s a solid way to demonstrate your skills and build connections.
✨Utilise Construction Job Sites
Don't just rely on the big job boards. Look at niche construction job sites—many companies prioritise these for full-time roles. Apply through these sites, but don’t forget to reach out directly to companies you admire, like John Charles Search, to express your interest!
✨Tailor Your Application for Full-Time Roles
Make your application stand out by tailoring it specifically for full-time positions. Highlight how your previous projects align with the company's work. At StudySmarter, we encourage you to demonstrate your commitment and long-term interest in the industry when applying for roles like Contracts & Engineering Manager at John Charles Search.
We think you need these skills to ace Contracts & Engineering Manager in Hampshire, Portsmouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:In the construction industry, it's essential to highlight any hands-on experience you have. Whether it’s past projects you've worked on or specific roles you've held, make sure your CV emphasises your practical skills and contributions to construction sites.
Include Certifications and Qualifications:Don’t forget to list any certifications relevant to construction, like CSCS cards or other safety qualifications. These can really set you apart from other candidates and show that you’re serious about health and safety on-site.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Construction:When writing your cover letter for a construction role, focus on your problem-solving capabilities and teamwork. Construction relies heavily on collaboration, so mention how you’ve worked successfully with others to complete projects on time and within budget.
Adapt Your CV Format to the Field:Ensure your CV is clear and easy to read, with sections dedicated to skills such as project management, technical abilities, and site supervision. Construction roles often require a blend of technical know-how and soft skills, so make sure both are highlighted effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at John Charles Search
✨Brush Up on Technical Knowledge
For a construction role, it's crucial we have a solid grasp of industry standards, safety protocols, and specific tools used on-site. Make sure you're familiar with relevant regulations and can talk confidently about them, as these often come up in interviews.
✨Showcase Your Projects
Since this is a full-time position, be ready to discuss any previous construction projects you've worked on. Bring a portfolio or have detailed descriptions that highlight your role, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them—this’ll show you’re not just book-smart but also practically savvy.
✨Understand the Team Dynamics
Construction is all about teamwork, so prepare to discuss how you interact with different stakeholders like architects, engineers, and contractors. Maybe think of examples from past experiences to illustrate your ability to communicate and collaborate effectively.
✨Prepare for On-the-Spot Problem Solving
Be ready for some practical questions or scenarios where you'll need to demonstrate your problem-solving skills. Interviewers might present you with a hypothetical construction issue to solve, so practice articulating your thought process clearly and logically—this could really set you apart!
