Site Manager in Reading

Site Manager in Reading

Reading Full-Time 45000 - 55000 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
Watkin Jones PLC

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Oversee site activities, ensuring safety and efficiency on refurbishment projects.
  • Company: Join Watkin Jones, a leading developer with a rich history in residential construction.
  • Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, hybrid working, and exclusive discounts.
  • Other info: Be part of a forward-thinking team focused on sustainable development.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on major projects while developing your career.
  • Qualifications: Experience in construction, valid SMSTS and CSCS certifications required.

The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.

At Watkin Jones, we’re delighted to offer an excellent opportunity for a Site Manager to join our team, working on our refurbishment schemes valued between £1 million and £12 million. This is an important position within our expanding building improvements and refresh developments, giving you the chance to make a meaningful contribution as we continue to grow in this area.

As Site Manager, you’ll oversee the daily running of site activities, ensuring all works are carried out safely, efficiently, and to a high standard. You’ll drive progress to meet programme milestones, coordinate and manage subcontractors, and take a proactive approach to maintaining momentum and compliance on-site.

A key part of your role will be communicating clear site instructions and coordinating subcontractor operations in line with the overall construction programme. You’ll work closely with the Contracts Manager and Quantity Surveyor and participate in coordination meetings as needed.

Alongside managing site operations, you’ll review and interpret drawings and plans, helping to ensure projects remain on budget and that waste is minimised. You’ll also take responsibility for specific tasks assigned by the senior management team, supporting the wider success of each development.

About You

You’ll have solid experience in a construction or development setting, with strong knowledge of site operations and health and safety practices. You hold valid SMSTS and CSCS certifications, a First Aid qualification, and ideally a Level 3 or 4 qualification such as an NVQ, Apprenticeship, or HNC in a relevant field. You’re confident reviewing construction drawings and comfortable using Microsoft Office applications. A reliable team player, you work collaboratively to achieve shared outcomes and may already have experience supervising subcontractors or working in roles such as Assistant Site Manager or Site Manager. Additional training in site safety or tools would be beneficial.

Why Choose Watkin Jones Group?

Watkin Jones Group is the UK’s leading developer, builder, and manager of residential-for-rent homes, with a rich history dating back to 1791. With 54,000+ homes developed and in-build across over 254 schemes, we have a proven track record of success. Our operating arm, Fresh, manages over 18,500 units across 58 schemes, representing approximately £1.7bn of assets under management.

Joining us means becoming part of a company that’s not only deeply rooted in history but also firmly focused on the future. We’re committed to creating high-quality rental homes, fostering vibrant communities, and driving sustainable development.

At Watkin Jones, we believe in investing in our people. Here’s what we can offer you:

  • Work-Life Balance: 25 days of annual leave (increasing with tenure), hybrid working arrangements, and discounted gym memberships.
  • Wellbeing: Access to ‘Your Wellbeing’ programme & OpenUp – a confidential wellbeing platform.
  • Rewards: Discretionary annual bonus, health cash plan, life insurance, and more.
  • Benefits: Exclusive shopping discounts, and a contributory pension scheme.

This is an opportunity to take on a high-impact role within a forward-thinking company. In return, we offer a competitive salary, excellent benefits, and the chance to work on major projects that shape the built environment.

Site Manager in Reading employer: Watkin Jones PLC

Watkin Jones Group is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where you can make a significant impact as a Site Manager on high-value refurbishment projects. With a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, professional development, and a culture that values collaboration and innovation, you'll enjoy a healthy work-life balance, competitive benefits, and the opportunity to contribute to sustainable community development in a company with a rich heritage and a forward-looking vision.

Watkin Jones PLC

Contact Details:

Watkin Jones PLC Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Site Manager in Reading

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 Watkin Jones PLC, 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 Site Manager at Watkin Jones PLC.

We think you need these skills to ace Site Manager in Reading

Communication Skills
Site Management
Organisational Skills
Problem-Solving Skills
Attention to Detail
Project Management
Health & Safety Regulations

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 Watkin Jones PLC

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!