At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage projects for the Royal Navy, ensuring timely and effective delivery.
- Company: Join UK Docks, a leader in defence and marine project management.
- Benefits: Enjoy 23 days annual leave, flexible hours, and a company-matched pension scheme.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for growth and collaboration with top industry professionals.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the defence sector while developing your project management skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in project management and a relevant engineering qualification required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
UK Docks is seeking a proactive and highly organised Senior Contracts Manager to lead the Department. Based in South Shields and reporting to the General Manager, this role is instrumental in planning, coordinating, and delivering key projects on Royal Navy vessels. The successful candidate will oversee the allocation of tasks within the team, ensuring alignment with contract deliverables and collaborating closely with internal teams, OEMs, contractors and MOD stakeholders to deliver a high-quality, compliant, and cost-effective service.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage the Project team, ensuring the successful development and closeout of all technical tasks.
- Oversee planning and execution of upgrade programs, providing detailed work packages and schedules to MOD, contractors, and ships’ staff.
- Liaise with MOD representatives to ensure alignment with defence engineering and regulatory standards.
- Coordinate with internal departments, contractors, and OEMs to define scope, budgets, and resource requirements.
- Deliver projects from initial request through execution and completion, ensuring on-time and on-budget performance.
- Ensure technical solutions are delivered in a timely and effective manner, including upgrades and modifications to vessels.
- Manage cost and resource estimation, change control processes, and support continuous improvement initiatives.
- Maintain accurate technical documentation and produce comprehensive project reports.
- Attend client meetings as the lead UK Docks representative, supported by the wider project team.
- Contribute to invoice preparation and negotiate final settlements with OEMs, third parties, and shipyards.
- Ensure project delivery adheres to safety, quality, and statutory regulations.
- Monitor team performance through KPIs and provide monthly reports to the General Manager.
- Maintain awareness of industry standards and classification requirements.
- Undertake any other technical or operational duties as required.
Qualifications & Experience
Essential
- Demonstrated experience in project or contract management, preferably within defence, marine, or shipbuilding sectors.
- HNC/HND or Degree in Mechanical, Marine, or Electrical Engineering (or related field).
- Experience managing cross-functional teams and multiple technical workstreams.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills at all levels.
- Project management certification (e.g., PRINCE2, APM, PMP).
- Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Teams, SharePoint).
Desirable
- Background supporting MOD-managed assets, particularly Royal Navy or RFA.
- Knowledge of Classification Societies, Flag State requirements, and defence regulations.
Benefits
- 23 days annual leave (rising to 25 after 4 years), plus bank holidays.
- Holiday buy/sell scheme.
- Flexible core working hours.
- Free on-site parking.
- Company-matched pension scheme.
Project Manager in South Shields employer: Trades Workforce Solutions
UK Docks is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in South Shields where innovation meets tradition in the defence and marine sectors. With a strong focus on employee development, we provide opportunities for growth through training and project management certifications, alongside a supportive culture that values collaboration and excellence. Our comprehensive benefits package, including flexible working hours and a company-matched pension scheme, ensures that our team members are well-supported both professionally and personally.
Contact Details:
Trades Workforce Solutions Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Project Manager in South Shields
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the defence and marine sectors. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching UK Docks and their projects. Familiarise yourself with their work on Royal Navy vessels and think about how your experience aligns with their needs. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly gets what they do.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your project management skills! Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've led teams and delivered projects on time and within budget. Use metrics and KPIs to back up your claims – numbers speak volumes!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Project Manager in South Shields
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Project Manager role. Highlight your experience in project or contract management, especially in defence or marine sectors. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of your past projects and how you’ve successfully managed teams and stakeholders. Let your personality shine through!
Showcase Relevant Qualifications:Don’t forget to mention your qualifications! If you have a degree in Mechanical, Marine, or Electrical Engineering, or any project management certifications like PRINCE2 or PMP, make them stand out. We love seeing that expertise!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy – just follow the prompts!
How to prepare for a job interview at Trades Workforce Solutions
✨Know Your Projects Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the projects you've managed in the past. Be ready to discuss specific challenges you faced, how you overcame them, and the outcomes. This will show your potential employer that you have the hands-on experience needed for the role.
✨Brush Up on Defence Regulations
Since this role involves liaising with MOD representatives, it's crucial to familiarise yourself with relevant defence engineering and regulatory standards. Being able to speak knowledgeably about these topics will demonstrate your commitment and understanding of the industry.
✨Showcase Your Team Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your experience in managing cross-functional teams. Discuss how you’ve motivated team members, resolved conflicts, and ensured everyone is aligned with project goals. This will illustrate your capability to lead effectively in a dynamic environment.
✨Be Ready for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions related to project management methodologies like PRINCE2 or APM. Brush up on your knowledge of cost estimation, change control processes, and resource management. Demonstrating your expertise in these areas will give you an edge over other candidates.
