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Contracts & Engineering Manager
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Contracts & Engineering Manager
📍 Location: Portsmouth (with UK-wide travel as required) 💷 Salary: £65,000 - £70,000 + Benefits 📋 Reporting to: Operations Director
Our client
A well-established UK construction and engineering business specialising in structural steel and commercial fit-out projects. Since the 1970's, they have been delivering projects across a range of commercial and industrial sectors.
The Role
We are seeking an experienced Contracts & Engineering Manager to take ownership of the successful delivery of construction projects from contract award through to completion. This role is responsible for all aspects of project delivery, including design coordination, programme management, procurement, subcontractor management, commercial control, health and safety compliance, client liaison and financial performance.
You will ensure projects are delivered safely, on time, within budget and to the exceptionally high standards expected by the business and our clients. The position involves regular interaction with clients, architects, structural engineers, building control officers, principal contractors, subcontractors and internal departments.
Key Responsibilities
Project Management:
- Manage multiple construction projects simultaneously from order receipt through to practical completion.
- Develop and maintain detailed project programmes and monitor progress against key milestones.
- Coordinate surveys, design activities, manufacturing, procurement and installation works.
- Ensure projects are delivered safely, on programme and within agreed budgets.
- Identify project risks and implement mitigation strategies.
- Manage project variations and change control procedures.
- Chair and lead project meetings with clients, contractors, consultants and internal stakeholders.
- Provide regular project updates to senior management.
Design & Engineering Coordination:
- Review structural designs, calculations and drawings for compliance with project requirements.
- Coordinate activities between clients, architects, structural engineers and internal design teams.
- Ensure designs comply with relevant British Standards, Building Regulations, CDM Regulations and industry best practice.
- Review and approve technical documentation before issue.
- Assist in resolving technical and engineering challenges throughout the project lifecycle.
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Commercial Management:
- Monitor project costs, budgets and financial performance.
- Review subcontractor quotations and procurement packages.
- Manage contract variations and ensure appropriate commercial recovery.
- Support the preparation of applications for payment and final accounts.
- Produce monthly financial reports for projects under management.
- Present project financial performance to senior management.
Client Relationship Management:
- Act as the primary point of contact for clients throughout project delivery.
- Develop strong working relationships with clients, consultants and supply chain partners.
- Manage client expectations and maintain high levels of customer satisfaction.
- Resolve project issues promptly and professionally.
- Identify opportunities for repeat business and additional works.
Subcontractor & Supply Chain Management:
- Appoint, coordinate and manage subcontractors and suppliers.
- Monitor subcontractor performance against programme, quality and safety requirements.
- Ensure subcontractors operate in accordance with company procedures and standards.
- Manage procurement schedules to support project delivery requirements.
Health, Safety, Quality & Compliance:
- Ensure all projects are delivered in compliance with current health and safety legislation.
- Support the implementation of CDM requirements.
- Review RAMS and construction phase documentation.
- Conduct site visits and audits as required.
- Promote a positive safety culture across all projects.
- Ensure quality standards are maintained throughout project delivery.
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Qualifications & Experience
Essential:
- Higher National Diploma (HND), Higher Diploma or equivalent qualification in Structural Engineering, Civil Engineering or a related discipline.
- Minimum 5 years' experience within structural steel design, steel construction or related construction sectors.
- Strong understanding of structural steelwork and construction methodologies.
- Experience managing multiple construction projects simultaneously.
- Excellent commercial awareness and project financial management skills.
- Experience dealing directly with clients, architects, consultants and subcontractors.
- Strong communication, negotiation and leadership skills.
- Full UK driving licence.
Desirable:
- Degree in Structural Engineering, Civil Engineering or Construction Management.
- SMSTS qualification.
- CSCS Managers Card.
- IOSH Managing Safely.
- Knowledge of Building Regulations, CDM Regulations and EN1090 requirements.
Technical Skills
The successful candidate will be proficient in:
- AutoCAD
- Microsoft Excel and Office Suite
- Structural design software packages such as: MasterSeries, TEDDS, Tekla Structural Designer
The candidate should also possess a strong understanding of:
- Structural calculations
- Steel connection design
- Building Regulations
- Construction programming
- Contract administration
- Financial reporting and budget control
Personal Attributes
The successful candidate will demonstrate:
- Strong leadership and organisational skills.
- Excellent attention to detail.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Strong problem-solving and decision-making capability.
- Commercial awareness and business acumen.
- Professional and confident communication skills.
- Ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Commitment to delivering exceptional customer service.
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