Technical Project Manager (Contract)
Location: Leighton Buzzard (4 days onsite)
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Contract Length: 6 months (Temp-to-Perm potential)
Start Date: ASAP
Engagement: Inside IR35 (Umbrella)
Rate: Negotiable
The Role
The Technical Project Manager is a key delivery role within the Client's engineering programme environment. Rather than being aligned to a single programme, you will be deployed flexibly across a portfolio of projects, supporting priority areas as required.
Working under the direction of a Senior Project Manager, you will take ownership of defined work packages and be responsible for delivering against Quality, Cost, and Schedule (QCD) objectives. You will operate as a core member of the Integrated Project Team (IPT), coordinating day-to-day delivery, managing risks, and ensuring accurate project tracking and reporting.
This role also offers a clear pathway toward Senior Project Manager level, with exposure to multiple programmes and opportunities for professional development.
Key Responsibilities
Project Planning & Structuring
* Support the creation and maintenance of project structures, including WBS, OBS, CBS, and resource plans
* Define and manage work packages, ensuring clear scope, ownership, budget, and timelines
* Contribute to the development and ongoing management of the Project Development Plan (PDP)
* Assist in cost estimation (NRC/RC) aligned to programme targets
* Ensure all project documentation is maintained in line with internal standards and regulatory requirements
Project Delivery
* Own delivery of assigned work packages, ensuring alignment to QCD targets
* Coordinate cross-functional teams and track progress against milestones
* Manage risks, issues, and actions, escalating where appropriate
* Support governance activities including reporting and stakeholder updates
* Maintain accurate data within project management tools
Planning, Scheduling & Risk Management
* Develop and maintain detailed project schedules and milestone plans
* Apply structured planning methods, including rolling-wave planning
* Track project baselines and manage change control processes
* Produce regular project dashboards and KPI reports
* Manage risks and opportunities, including mitigation planning and impact assessment
* Support cross-site coordination with international teams where required
Stakeholder Management
* Support customer engagement under guidance from the Senior Project Manager
* Build strong working relationships across engineering, quality, and programme teams
* Represent the project in internal meetings and governance forums
Legacy Project Support
* Support close-out of legacy or historic projects, including documentation and customer obligations
* Maintain accurate project records and configuration data
* Contribute to lessons learned and project closure reporting
Continuous Improvement
* Contribute to the improvement of project management practices, tools, and processes
* Share lessons learned and promote best practice across the organisation
Compliance & Governance
* Ensure adherence to internal project management standards and lifecycle processes
* Support structured project governance, reporting cycles, and resource planning
* Maintain compliance with quality and regulatory requirements
Required Experience & Qualifications
* Proven project management experience within an engineering environment
* Strong track record of delivering against Quality, Cost, and Schedule objectives
* Experience with structured project planning frameworks (e.g. WBS, cost and resource planning)
* Experience developing project plans and managing full project lifecycle delivery
* Knowledge of cost estimation and budget management
* Strong risk and issue management experience
* Ability to coordinate cross-functional teams in a matrix environment
* Degree in Engineering, Project Management, or related discipline (or equivalent experience)
Desirable Experience
* Aerospace or defence sector experience
* Familiarity with stage-gate development processes
* Experience with enterprise project management tools (e.g. Planisware or similar)
* Knowledge of engineering change management / PLM systems
* APQP or similar quality frameworks
* Professional PM qualification (APM, PMP, or equivalent)
* Exposure to Agile methodologies in engineering environments
* French language skills (beneficial)
Key Skills & Attributes
* Strong delivery focus with a proactive approach
* Excellent planning and organisational skills
* Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
* Strong communication and stakeholder management skills
* Analytical mindset with effective problem-solving ability
* Resilient and adaptable under pressure
* Able to work independently and take ownership of deliverables
* Committed to continuous learning and development
What's on Offer
* Opportunity to work across a diverse portfolio of engineering programmes
* Potential for permanent role following initial contract
* Exposure to international project teams
* Professional development and career progression opportunities
* Collaborative and dynamic working environment
Equal Opportunities
The Client is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified individuals. xsngvjr A commitment to diversity and inclusion is central to the organisation's values.