Associate Project Manager - Rail PMCM in Reading

As Associate at WSP in the PMCM Rail team you will be responsible for leading the delivery of a single large, complex rail project or a programme of smaller rail projects of regional, national and international significance. You will be accountable for the projects/ programme being delivered safely, with high quality, on time and within budget. Our Associate Project Managers think strategically, manage requirements, budgets, schedules and risks, influence others, communicate vision and purpose, solve problems and embrace new challenges. They collaborate closely with external Clients and multidisciplinary project teams, utilizing WSP offices, Client offices and site locations to deliver programmes of regional and national importance. WSP supports work‑life balance, flexible working and encourages presence in modern offices. You will be based in one of our vibrant office locations across the UK and may visit sites as required. Development opportunities include formal project management qualifications through the APM pathway.

Responsibilities (Your role)

• Leading and delivering on a specific large complex project or programme of work.
• Implementing governance frameworks, controls and reporting mechanisms to ensure effective project/ programme management.
• Ensuring the project/ programme of works is delivered safely, on time, within budget and to the required quality standards.
• Delivering effective development and management of suppliers to meet project or programme requirements.
• Direct and lead project teams, enhancing their effectiveness through training, coaching and mentoring.
• Acting as principal point of contact for the Client, ensuring their needs and expectations are met throughout the lifecycle.
• Developing and managing client relationships, using effective listening and influencing skills.
• Engaging at senior level with multiple internal and external stakeholders, including regulatory bodies and local authorities.
• Addressing stakeholder concerns and managing expectations effectively.
• Accountable for contracts managed in line with contract rules of engagement (including NEC3/4).
• Accountable for the management of budgets, tracking and reporting.
• Optimising resource utilisation and ensuring financial performance aligns with project/ programme goals.
• Identifying key risks and implementing suitable mitigation measures.
• Being a safety leader, driving safety performance and compliance with CDM regulations.
• Ensuring all activities conducted safely and environmentally responsibly.
• Managing project governance, planning, controls and reporting arrangements.
• Facilitating reviews of the strategic plan, monitoring progress and assessing alignment.
• Driving innovative solutions and implementing processes to enhance efficiency and productivity.
• Accountable for continuous improvement, including strategy, efficiency, industry influence and operational improvements.

What We Will Be Looking For You To Demonstrate

• A degree in a relevant engineering or management discipline.
• Experience in project/ programme management, including technical and project controls.
• Experience in a senior management role on multiple significant projects, with demonstrated client‑side delivery.
• Experience building successful delivery teams.
• Team leader, strategic thinker, solution‑focused and responsive to client issues.
• Strong commercial focus, business acumen, strategic insight and financial astuteness.
• Effective leadership, interpersonal and communication skills.
• Working experience managing NEC 3/4 contracts.

Beneficial Experience

• APM / MSP / PMI / PRINCE2 / Six Sigma certifications.
• Chartered membership of a relevant professional body or nearing completion.
• Experience at senior level with organisations such as Network Rail, HS2, TfGM or other rail‑related entities.

Imagine a better future for you and a better future for us all. Work on landmark projects around the world and embrace opportunities to make a bigger impact in the communities you care about. What if you could do the best work of your life and create a legacy for yourself? With us, you can. Apply today.

About Us

We are one of the world’s leading engineering and professional services firms. Our 72,800 passionate people are united by the common purpose of creating positive, long‑lasting impacts on the communities we serve through a culture of innovation, integrity and inclusion. With over 9,000 professionals across the UK and Ireland, we serve our local communities while propelled by international brainpower.

What’s in it for you

• Work‑life balance: At WSP, we understand that work is just one aspect of your life. We offer a hybrid working policy, allowing you to work from home two days a week and collaborate in modern offices across the UK.
• Inclusivity & Belonging: We welcome applicants with varied backgrounds and experiences, encouraging people to bring their whole and authentic selves to work. We celebrate integrity, respect and belonging, and support employees through our employee resource groups.
• Health & Wellbeing: We provide the Thrive programme, virtual GP service, reasonable workplace adjustments, Gymflex scheme, menopause support and other benefits.
• Flex your time: We offer “WSP My Hour”, part‑time and flexible working arrangements, and the possibility to purchase additional leave.
• Your development: We invest in training, mentoring, and chartership opportunities to support your growth.

Equal Opportunity

Here at WSP we positively encourage applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, pregnancy or maternity/paternity. We are a Disability Confident leader and will interview all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria. Please let us know if you require any workplace adjustments in support of your application.