At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead exciting engineering projects in high-performance chemical manufacturing.
- Company: Join Synthomer, a global leader in sustainable polymers and innovative solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, bonuses, flexible working, and extensive learning opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a culture that values inclusion and personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic industry while driving sustainability.
- Qualifications: Degree in engineering and 10+ years in project management required.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 85000 £ per year.
Synthomer is a leading supplier of high-performance, highly specialised polymers and ingredients that play vital roles in key sectors such as coatings, construction, adhesives, and health and protection – growing markets that serve billions of end users worldwide. Headquartered in London, UK and publicly listed there since 1971, we employ c.3,900 employees across our 5 innovation centres of excellence and more than 29 manufacturing sites across Europe, North America and Asia. Around 20% of our sales volumes are from new and patent protected products. At our innovation centres of excellence in the UK, Germany, China, Malaysia and Ohio, USA we collaborate closely with our customers to develop new products and enhance existing ones tailored to their needs, with an increasing range of sustainability benefits.
The Role
We are looking for a Senior Project Manager to lead capital engineering projects of up to £2M across high-hazard chemical manufacturing sites. Working within a structured stage-gate process, you will be responsible for delivering projects safely, on time, within budget, and in full compliance with regulatory and quality standards. Based in Harlow, Essex, you will manage multidisciplinary teams and external contractors, with occasional travel across the UK and Europe.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead engineering and capital projects from concept through to completion.
- Ensure compliance with SHE, COMAH, regulatory, and company standards.
- Define project scope, requirements, budgets, schedules, and execution plans.
- Coordinate internal stakeholders, engineering teams, contractors, and suppliers.
- Manage project risks and implement mitigation strategies.
- Control project costs, forecasts, timelines, and documentation.
- Support contract and procurement activities to ensure successful project delivery.
- Provide regular project updates, KPIs, and governance reporting.
- Drive effective stakeholder engagement and communication.
- Mentor and support colleagues managing smaller local projects.
About You
- Degree qualified in a relevant engineering discipline.
- PMP, PRINCE2, or equivalent project management qualification.
- 10+ years' experience within chemicals, manufacturing, or other high-hazard industries.
- Proven track record delivering multidisciplinary engineering projects in brownfield environments.
- Experience managing EPCM contractors and external engineering partners.
- Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
- Able to influence and coordinate diverse project teams without direct line management responsibility.
- Additional European language skills would be advantageous.
Location
Harlow, Essex (site-based) with travel to UK and European locations as required.
Global Benefits Overview
- Competitive, market-aligned compensation
- Discretionary global bonus scheme
- Discretionary Long-Term Incentive Plan (LTIP) – for senior positions
- Company car or car allowance – varies by region and role
- Healthcare – tailored to regional locations
- Parental leave and family support – maternity, paternity, adoption (aligned with regional policies)
- Working options – flexibility where it matters, based on role and business needs
- Learning & development opportunities – training, online platforms, buddy/mentorship programs, Internal Synthomer University with L&D offers
- Wellbeing support – employee assistance program (EAP), mental health resources, wellbeing initiatives
- Retirement / pension contributions – plans vary by country
- Culture of Inclusion – where everyone can thrive
- Performance culture, global reward & recognition programmes
Group Engineering Project Manager employer: Synthomer
At Synthomer in Harlow, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that prioritises safety, operational excellence, and employee development. Our collaborative work culture fosters continuous improvement and innovation, providing ample opportunities for professional growth within a high-hazard manufacturing environment. With competitive compensation and a commitment to team success, we offer a rewarding career path for those looking to make a meaningful impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Group Engineering Project Manager
✨Join Engineering Meetups!
Get yourself along to local engineering meetups or tech conferences. These are great places to connect with like-minded folks and industry leaders who might just have a lead on that full-time Group Engineering Project Manager role you’re after at Synthomer.
✨Show Off Your Projects!
Don’t be shy about showcasing your engineering projects. Whether it’s a funky app, a mechanical design, or a complex algorithm, having a solid portfolio on platforms like GitHub can really make you stand out. Plus, it gives potential employers at Synthomer a taste of what you can bring to the table!
✨Engage with Online Communities
Dive into engineering forums and online communities, like Reddit or specific engineering Discord channels. Sharing your insights, asking questions, and being active can help you build connections that might lead to job opportunities at Synthomer.
✨Apply Through Company Websites
When you spot a role like Group Engineering Project Manager at Synthomer, apply directly through their website. Often, this can show your genuine interest in the company and you might just get noticed quicker than via typical job boards.
We think you need these skills to ace Group Engineering Project Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Group Engineering Project Manager, it’s essential to highlight your technical skills. Include any relevant software or tools you're proficient in on your CV—think CAD software, simulation tools, or programming languages. Don't skimp on any engineering projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems.
Focus on Results and Impact:In the engineering world, we love numbers and real-world impact. Quantify your achievements wherever possible—like reducing costs by a certain percentage, improving efficiency, or successfully completing a project ahead of schedule. This gives your future employers at Synthomer a clear picture of the value you can bring.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for engineering and explain why you’re drawn to Synthomer specifically. Share what aspects of their work excite you and how your values align with theirs. This is your chance to show a bit of personality while keeping it professional!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any engineering certifications, especially ones that are recognised in your field, make sure to feature them prominently on your CV. They demonstrate not just your knowledge, but also your commitment to professional development, which is something we at StudySmarter value highly.
How to prepare for a job interview at Synthomer
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with Synthomer, make sure you're solid on the fundamental engineering principles relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural analysis, depending on the specifics mentioned in the job description. Don’t skip any hands-on projects or coursework; these can be excellent talking points!
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.
✨Relate Your Experience to the Role
In a full-time role, employers like Synthomer want to see that you can adapt and grow within their team. Be ready to discuss how your previous internships, projects, or studies relate directly to the work you'll be doing. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your collaborative skills and how you've successfully worked within a team environment.
✨Know Your Tools and Software
Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.
