At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead exciting water and wastewater projects from start to finish, ensuring quality and safety.
- Company: AFECO, a dynamic engineering services provider focused on innovative solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, life insurance, pension, and 26 days holiday plus bank holidays.
- Other info: Opportunities for career development and a supportive, inclusive work culture.
- Why this job: Join a forward-thinking team and make a real impact on sustainable infrastructure.
- Qualifications: Degree in engineering and experience in managing multi-disciplinary projects required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
As part of the United Infrastructure Group, we are a dynamic and innovative specialist engineering services, solutions and products provider focused on servicing our clients’ immediate and future needs. We do this through the development of industry-changing cleantech products as well as through engineering delivery excellence.
We specialise in the design and delivery of process, mechanical, electrical and ICA engineering-based projects, products and solutions. Regardless of the project, they all pursue the same goal: to improve the efficiency and sustainability of our water, wastewater and waste treatment.
We have a team of highly skilled and experienced professionals with extensive consulting and contracting experience, including engineers, scientists and commercial managers. Our knowledge and expertise spans more than 30 years, across industries including: water, wastewater, marine, energy and power sectors. At AFECO, we cover all stages of the innovation and project delivery cycle from concept through to operations.
Our aim is simple – to provide the most effective solutions and products on the market and thus, exceed clients expectations through market-leading technology. From technical through to commercial and management expertise, we have the in-house expertise to execute a range of projects from the most basic to highly complex.
Location: Norfolk/Suffolk
About us: AFECO is an engineering services provider, delivering high quality process and MEICA design and installation projects predominantly across the South of England and Midlands for the water industry. We have excellent in-house engineering teams capable of delivering all stages of the project cycle, from concept through to commissioning, with a strong focus on process led innovative and robust yet appropriate solutions.
We have a portfolio of varied projects covering both wastewater and clean water projects for planned and reactive projects. Due to the expansion of our team into Essex & Suffolk Water and Affinity Water, we are currently recruiting for a Project Manager to work within our multi-disciplinary teams. This is a great opportunity for enthusiastic individuals who fit in with our company values and are keen to develop in a forward-thinking organisation.
Role Purpose
The Project Manager is responsible for the successful delivery of water and wastewater infrastructure projects from concept through to completion. The role ensures projects are delivered safely, on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards.
As the Project Manager you will provide line management, leadership, and technical oversight to Project Engineers, ensuring high performance, professional development, and consistent delivery excellence across the portfolio.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead end-to-end oversight delivery of water and wastewater projects (treatment works, pumping stations, pipelines, reservoirs, network upgrades, etc.).
- Develop and manage project programmes, budgets, and resource plans.
- Oversee feasibility studies, detailed design, procurement, construction, commissioning, and handover.
- Ensure compliance with statutory, environmental, and regulatory requirements.
- Manage project risk, change control, and mitigation strategies.
- Ensure CDM (or relevant H&S regulations) compliance and promote a strong safety culture.
Financial & Commercial Management
- Assist in the preparation and management of CAPEX/OPEX budgets.
- Monitor project costs, forecasts, and financial performance.
- Administer NEC/JCT (or relevant) contracts.
- Manage contractor performance and commercial negotiations.
- Approve payment applications and manage variations.
Stakeholder Management
- Act as primary interface with clients, regulators, contractors, and key stakeholders.
- Manage internal coordination between design, procurement, construction, and operations teams.
- Present project updates to senior management and clients.
- Maintain strong relationships with local authorities, environmental bodies, and utility providers.
- There may also be a requirement to travel to various sites across the UK as part of the role to meet key stakeholders throughout a project lifecycle & support the wider business.
Line Management & Leadership
- Direct line management of Project Engineers.
- Allocate resources effectively across the project portfolio.
- Conduct performance reviews, objective setting, and development planning.
- Mentor and support career progression of team members.
- Promote knowledge sharing and continuous improvement.
- Foster a collaborative, high-performing team culture.
Quality & Governance
- Ensure projects follow internal governance procedures and stage-gate processes.
- Drive continuous improvement in project delivery processes.
- Ensure documentation, reporting, and audit trails are maintained.
- Contribute to business strategy and future project pipeline planning.
Qualifications & Experience
- Degree or equivalent qualification in Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, or related discipline.
- Significant experience in water and/or wastewater infrastructure projects.
- Proven experience managing multi-disciplinary engineering projects.
- Experience administering NEC (or equivalent) contracts.
- Demonstrable line management experience.
- Strong knowledge of water sector regulations and standards.
- Excellent stakeholder and communication skills.
Performance Measures (KPIs)
- Delivery of projects within agreed time, cost, and quality targets.
- Safety performance (zero harm culture).
- Client satisfaction scores.
- Financial performance against budget.
- Team engagement and development outcomes.
- Compliance with regulatory and governance standards.
Salary and benefits
- Salary TBC
- Medicash plan
- Life insurance
- Benefits portal
- Company pension
- 26 days holiday (plus bank holidays)
At AFECO, we value our employees and encourage and support them to develop themselves and their career through training and progression. We offer the opportunity to work on a range of project types and sizes in the water sector including our own internally developed products and solutions. We are a privately owned business with a friendly and open culture and are dedicated to creating and maintaining a workforce that is highly skilled and motivated. As a company, we are committed to equal opportunities for all and do not discriminate on the grounds of race, religion or belief, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marital or civil partner status, sex, disability or age.
Join us at AFECO and be part of our mission to deliver innovative and sustainable solutions to the complex infrastructure needs of the UK.
Project Manager employer: United Living Group
AFECO is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture, dedicated to the professional growth of its employees. With a strong focus on sustainability and cutting-edge engineering solutions, team members are encouraged to develop their skills through diverse project opportunities in the water sector. Located in the South of England, AFECO offers competitive benefits, including a company pension, life insurance, and generous holiday allowances, all within a supportive environment that values equal opportunities and employee well-being.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Project Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the water and wastewater 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 AFECO’s projects and values. Show us you’re genuinely interested in our mission to deliver innovative solutions. Tailor your answers to reflect how your experience aligns with our goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your skills in project management can help us improve efficiency and sustainability in our projects. Keep it concise and impactful – we love a good story!
✨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 our team at AFECO.
We think you need these skills to ace Project Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Project Manager role. Highlight your experience in managing water and wastewater projects, and don’t forget to showcase your leadership skills and technical expertise!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about the role and how your background aligns with AFECO’s mission. Keep it concise but impactful!
Showcase Relevant Experience:When filling out your application, be specific about your past projects. Mention any relevant contracts you've managed and how you ensured compliance with regulations. This will show us you know your stuff!
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!
How to prepare for a job interview at United Living Group
✨Know Your Projects Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the types of water and wastewater projects the company handles. Familiarise yourself with their recent projects and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Project Manager, you'll need to demonstrate strong leadership abilities. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past, managed conflicts, and ensured project delivery on time and within budget.
✨Understand the Regulatory Landscape
Brush up on the relevant regulations and standards in the water sector. Being able to discuss compliance and safety measures will show that you’re not just technically savvy but also aware of the industry's legal requirements.
✨Prepare for Stakeholder Management Questions
Expect questions about how you manage relationships with clients, contractors, and other stakeholders. Have specific examples ready that highlight your communication skills and ability to maintain strong partnerships throughout a project lifecycle.
