At a Glance
- Tasks: Oversee projects, ensuring safety, quality, and timely delivery while collaborating with teams.
- Company: Join Wates, a leader in the construction industry with a commitment to excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, private medical insurance, and 26 days holiday plus bank holidays.
- Other info: Dynamic 2-year programme with opportunities for chartered status and extensive networking.
- Why this job: Kick-start your career in the built environment with hands-on experience and expert mentoring.
- Qualifications: Must be on track to graduate with a relevant degree and hold a full UK driving licence.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
As a Site Management Trainee at Wates, you'll be at the very heart of our business and play a vital role in ensuring that projects are delivered safely, on time and on budget. You’ll oversee subcontractors and operative activities across several workstreams within our business.
What you will do
- Promote and uphold Wates’ reputation for providing the highest standards of site safety, health and welfare and be the leading voice in protecting the environment.
- Work with our supply chain and surveyors to protect Wates’ commercial position.
- Develop solid working relationships with our clients, design team and supply chain by promoting best practice throughout the lifecycle of the construction process.
- Contribute your knowledge and skills to the delivery of the project on time, on budget and to the required quality.
- Develop an understanding of technical practices and sequences on projects.
- Gain ongoing knowledge of and implementation of cutting‑edge construction software and technology.
About You
- Be passionate about a career in the built environment.
- Be excited to learn and develop new skills.
- Have a curious nature.
- Be reliable and professional.
- Be a problem solver with the ability to think logically.
- Possess good time‑management skills.
- Prioritise your work to meet agreed deadlines.
Eligibility criteria
- Be on track to graduate in 2026 or earlier with a cognate degree.
- Be working towards or have achieved a minimum 2:2 classification.
- Hold a full UK driving licence.
- Cognate degree is one that relates directly to the role you’re applying for.
While the role is expected to be based in Teesside, the location may change and will be confirmed closer to the 2026 start date. Adaptability to travel and work across the North East region is essential.
Programme duration
This is a 2‑year graduate programme offering hands‑on experience, structured development, and placements across different teams.
What’s in it for you?
Our Trainee Management Programme offers placement opportunities across various departments, technical and behavioural development, including support through relevant qualifications and a host of additional benefits. We provide the foundation skills, knowledge and experience you’ll need to build a long‑term, successful career.
In Addition, We Offer
- Mentoring, support, and training by industry experts.
- Structured learning plan (a combination of technical and behavioural development).
- Competitive salary.
- Private medical insurance.
- Car allowance/company car scheme.
- Health & wellness programme.
- 26 days holiday + bank holidays.
- For cognate degree trainees: opportunity to work towards chartered status with a recognised professional body.
We have nearly 200 talented trainees currently completing our Trainee Management Programme, providing amazing opportunities to build a network, collaborate and share learning with your peers. Kick‑start your journey and apply now!
We value authenticity and encourage you to complete your application without the use of AI tools. This helps us gain a genuine understanding of your individual strengths, experiences and potential.
Applications for this role close at midday on Tuesday 25 November 2025. This date may be brought forward or extended in line with the number of applications we receive. We’re only able to accept the first application we receive. Any additional applications will be automatically withdrawn.
Graduate Site Management (Cognate Degree) Trainee Programme employer: TargetJobs UK
Wates is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth and development of its employees, particularly through its Graduate Site Management Trainee Programme. Located in Teesside, this programme offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience across various departments while receiving mentoring from industry experts, competitive benefits, and the chance to work towards chartered status. With a strong emphasis on safety, sustainability, and collaboration, Wates fosters a supportive work culture that empowers trainees to build meaningful careers in the built environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Graduate Site Management (Cognate Degree) Trainee Programme
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or past trainees at Wates through LinkedIn or alumni groups. They can give you insider tips and maybe even put in a good word for you!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by researching Wates' projects and values. Show us that you’re not just passionate about the role but also about contributing to their mission of safety and quality.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your problem-solving skills! Think of examples from your studies or previous experiences where you tackled challenges effectively. We want to see how you think on your feet!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining the team!
We think you need these skills to ace Graduate Site Management (Cognate Degree) Trainee Programme
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for the built environment shine through in your application. We want to see that you're genuinely excited about this career path and ready to learn!
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight relevant experiences and skills that align with the Site Management Trainee role. We love seeing how you connect your background to what we do!
Be Authentic:We value authenticity, so avoid using AI tools to craft your application. Just be yourself and share your unique strengths and experiences – it helps us get to know the real you!
Apply Through Our Website:Remember to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at TargetJobs UK
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the basics of site management and the specific responsibilities of the role. Familiarise yourself with Wates' projects, values, and their approach to safety and sustainability. This will show your genuine interest and help you answer questions more confidently.
✨Show Your Passion
Express your enthusiasm for a career in the built environment. Share any relevant experiences or projects that sparked your interest. Employers love candidates who are genuinely excited about the industry and eager to learn.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of how you've tackled challenges in the past. Whether it's a group project at university or a personal endeavour, showcasing your logical thinking and problem-solving abilities will resonate well with interviewers.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few insightful questions ready. Inquire about the training programme, opportunities for growth, or how Wates promotes best practices in site management. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the company is the right fit for you.
