At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the delivery of the UK's flagship nuclear project, ensuring safety and efficiency.
- Company: Join WJ, a leading water management specialist with over 40 years of experience.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, company car, private healthcare, gym access, and performance bonuses.
- Other info: Dynamic site-based role with opportunities for professional development and collaboration.
- Why this job: Be part of a significant infrastructure project and grow into senior leadership roles.
- Qualifications: Degree in engineering and 5+ years in project management required.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 60000 £ per year.
Workplace type: On-site, Sizewell C, Suffolk
Job type: Full-time, Permanent
Job function: Project Management, Construction, Engineering
Industries: Construction, Civil Engineering, Water/Utilities, Nuclear
Salary range: £55,000 - £60,000 + company car + private healthcare scheme + gym + performance bonus
Company car: Company car (available for personal use) with a monthly rental value
Pension: Automatically enrolled into the WJ Salary Sacrifice Pension Scheme. Contributions are made at 5% for both employee (minimum) and employer (maximum).
Private Healthcare: At six months of service, option to be enrolled into Westfield Health Cash Plan for Specialist Consultations & Diagnostics, Scanning Service (MRI, CT & PET Scans), Optical, Dental, Chiropody and Therapy Treatments (Physiotherapy, Acupuncture, Chiropractic, Homeopathy and Osteopathy)
Profit Related Bonus: A profit related annual bonus will be payable in December if WJ meets its profit targets
Group Life Insurance: Automatically included in the WJ Death in Service Group Insurance at 3 times salary after 6-month probation period
Gym Membership: Exclusive, discounted access to thousands of gyms, pools and spas with just one pass via our fitness partner, Hussle
About the role
WJ is looking for a Project Manager to join the team delivering our largest and most strategically important account: Sizewell C (SZC), the UK's flagship nuclear new-build project. Reporting to the SZC Project Lead, you will take ownership of assigned work packages across our portfolio of dewatering, water treatment, surface water management, water abstraction, pumping tests, water sampling & testing, and instrumentation & monitoring (I&M) works. You'll be WJ's representative on site, building strong relationships with SZC Ltd, the Civil Works Alliance (CWA) and their subcontractors, while leading WJ site teams to deliver safely, on programme and to budget.
What you'll do
- Champion a proactive Safety, Health & Environmental (SHE) culture and SZC nuclear safety culture, leading from the front on site.
- Supervise day-to-day site operations, maintaining strong communication with SZC Ltd, CWA staff, subcontractors and suppliers.
- Prepare Method Statements, Risk Assessments and technical drawings, and define package programmes against contractual milestones.
- Prepare and negotiate monthly payment applications, and support contract administration under NEC forms.
- Appoint, brief and provide direct line management to WJ site and monitoring teams and specialist subcontractors.
- Maintain accurate contractual records and reporting, supporting the SZC Project Lead's account governance.
Why join WJ?
This is your chance to build your career on one of the UK's most significant infrastructure projects, working alongside a supportive, experienced delivery team on WJ's flagship account. You'll gain exposure to nuclear-grade delivery standards, a broad multi-disciplinary portfolio, and a clear path to grow into senior project leadership roles. In return, WJ offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits and genuine investment in your professional development.
About WJ
WJ is the UK's leading water management specialist – the partner and contractor of choice for major construction and infrastructure programmes. Founded by academics and evolved through expertise, we apply scientific principles to solve complex water challenges: over 40 years' experience and 4,000+ projects worldwide, including the Channel Tunnel Rail Link, the London Olympic Park, Crossrail, Tideway, HS2 and currently Sizewell C. Our expanding service lines span dewatering & groundwater control, water treatment, surface water management, I&M, pumping tests, well drilling and professional services, grounded in engineering and delivered in partnership. Our values of Confidence, Pride, Clarity & Integrity, and Independence guide every decision we make.
Reports to
SZC Project Lead (Line Manager).
Key areas of responsibility
As a Project Manager on the Sizewell C project, you will be responsible for the delivery of assigned WJ work packages. Your duties will include, but are not limited to:
- Operational Leadership & Safety
- Champion a proactive Safety, Health & Environmental (SHE) culture and SZC nuclear safety culture, leading from the front and promoting safe working practices across all operational levels.
- Brief, audit and support site teams to ensure full compliance with SZC site rules, CDM duties, SHE standards and effective operational procedures.
- Ensure all activities are executed in accordance with WJ’s contractual obligations and directives from the SZC Project Lead.
- Site Supervision & Client Engagement
- Supervise day-to-day site operations, maintaining strong communication with SZC Ltd and CWA site staff, supervisory teams, subcontractors and suppliers.
- Build and sustain collaborative relationships to ensure smooth project delivery and client satisfaction, protecting WJ’s reputation on site as the basis for repeat work.
- Project Documentation & Reporting
- Maintain accurate and comprehensive records of WJ’s contractual activities, including monitoring data, site documentation and project logs.
- Ensure quality records, inspection & test plans and handover documentation meet nuclear-grade expectations and SZC/CWA governance and assurance processes.
- Draft and disseminate regular progress reports; actively participate in internal and external project meetings and support the SZC Project Lead’s account reporting.
- Technical Preparation & Delivery
- Prepare Method Statements, Risk Assessments, technical drawings and work procedures to support safe and efficient execution.
- Ensure design deliverables, including temporary works designs, are properly planned, checked, approved and implemented in accordance with WJ and SZC design management procedures.
- Define package programmes and ensure delivery against contractual milestones and performance targets, providing early warning of risks and supporting recovery planning where required.
- Commercial & Financial Oversight
- Prepare, issue and negotiate monthly payment applications in line with package progress and contractual terms.
- Support the Managing Quantity Surveyor and project QS in contract administration under NEC forms, including early warnings, compensation events, programme submissions and change control.
- Support business development and pipeline conversion through site visits, client engagement and assistance with tenders and quotations for new SZC scopes.
- Team Management & Coordination
- Appoint, brief and coordinate WJ site teams and specialist subcontractors to ensure cohesive and effective package execution.
- Provide direct line management to WJ site and monitoring staff, fostering a high-performance culture.
- Plan and secure resources (people, plant, equipment, materials) with the SZC Project Lead and service line leads to meet programme demands.
- Integrated Management System (IMS) Responsibilities
- Contribute to the ongoing development and refinement of WJ’s Integrated Management System, supporting continued certification to ISO9001, ISO14001 and ISO45001.
- Administer IMS procedures and ensure that objectives and targets are consistently met.
- Liaise with company auditors and ensure timely execution of corrective actions.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Work closely with UK business units – including Accounts, HR, SHE, Design/Technical, Sales/Marketing, Drilling, Monitoring and Environmental Services – to build strong internal relationships and support broader financial and operational objectives.
Qualifications & Experience
Essential
- Degree (or equivalent) in a relevant engineering discipline (e.g. Civil Engineering, Engineering Geology, Hydrogeology).
- Minimum 5 years’ experience in project/site management within construction or similar.
- Strong technical understanding of Hydrogeology, Engineering Geology or Civil Engineering, with extensive experience supervising geotechnical works, including application of the observational method.
- Confident in client-facing roles and stakeholder engagement, with excellent verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills and a high standard of written English.
- Proven leadership in managing site teams and subcontractors; organised, reliable and able to manage workloads under pressure on complex sites.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, skilled in interpreting technical data and regulatory requirements.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office and other relevant digital tools.
- Eligibility to obtain and maintain security clearance for the SZC site (e.g. BPSS).
- Valid CSCS card, SMSTS certification and full UK Driving Licence.
Desirable
- Experience on major infrastructure programmes (e.g. nuclear new-build, Hinkley Point C, HS2, Thames Tideway or similar) and familiarity with nuclear safety culture.
- Experience of works delivered under NEC3/4 contract forms.
- Experience of temporary works management and design management processes.
- Chartered or working towards chartership with a relevant institution (e.g. ICE, APM, CIOB).
Working Conditions
Site-based at/near the Sizewell C project, Suffolk, with periodic travel to WJ’s UK Head Office (Kings Langley) and other WJ facilities and project sites. The role involves regular presence on a live nuclear new-build construction site – including active construction zones, excavations, tunnels, adits and shafts – requiring strict compliance with Safety, Health & Environmental (SHE) regulations and SZC site rules at all times. Out-of-hours working may be required to support operational demands.
General Expectations
Uphold WJ’s values and commitment to safety, quality and environmental performance, and champion nuclear safety culture. Promote continuous improvement and collaborative working across WJ, SZC Ltd, the CWA and their supply chains. Undertake other reasonable duties consistent with the role’s level of responsibility and competence.
Project Manager (SZC) in Suffolk employer: WJ UK
WJ is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work on the UK's flagship nuclear new-build project at Sizewell C. With a strong commitment to employee development, competitive salaries, and comprehensive benefits including private healthcare and gym memberships, WJ fosters a supportive work culture that prioritises safety and collaboration. Employees can expect to grow their careers in a dynamic environment, gaining invaluable experience in high-stakes infrastructure projects while being part of a team that values integrity and excellence.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Project Manager (SZC) in Suffolk
✨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 WJ UK, 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 Project Manager (SZC) at WJ UK.
We think you need these skills to ace Project Manager (SZC) in Suffolk
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 WJ UK
✨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!
