Mechanical Contracts Manager – Data Centres & Defence Cheltenham (with travel to Manchester) | £65,000–£70,000 Car Allowance Benefits If you’re looking to step into a leadership role with exposure to cutting-edge data centre and secure MOD projects, this is the opportunity. JCA is on the lookout for an experienced Mechanical Contracts Manager to join their Project Engineering team, delivering complex mechanical projects across two of the most technically demanding sectors in the industry. Based primarily out of Cheltenham, you’ll also travel to projects in Manchester and Gloucester — all travel is fully expensed, and the projects are managed in a way that respects your time and input. Whether you’re looking for that next step or a new challenge in a business with a great reputation, you’ll be supported by a collaborative team and a strong project pipeline. The Role: You’ll be responsible for managing the full lifecycle of mechanical packages across major data centre and defence projects, including: * Full financial and delivery responsibility for mechanical works * Planning and overseeing delivery of chilled water systems, pipework, air handling units, and associated HVAC infrastructure * Managing site delivery teams, subcontractors, plant and material logistics * Forecasting and reporting on cost, margin, and risk * Coordinating design, compliance, H&S, and project documentation * Supporting both pre-construction and on-site phases, through to commissioning and handover * Working closely with the wider team across commercial, technical and client functions * Acting as the face of JCA on site, maintaining and strengthening client relationships Projects You’ll Be Involved With: * Live Data Centre Expansion * MOD Facilities Projects What We’re Looking For: We’re open to backgrounds across critical infrastructure sectors – you don’t need direct data centre experience, but you do need to be used to complex technical environments. Ideally, you’ll bring: * HNC/HND/Degree in Mechanical Engineering or Building Services * Proven track record delivering mechanical contracts (£5M ideally) * Comfortable managing technical installs including chillers, AHUs, pipework, and BMS * Experience working with live/critical environments (e.g. hospitals, pharma, MOD, or data centres) * SMSTS, First Aid, Black CSCS Card * Full UK Driving Licence * Able to obtain SC/DV security clearance (or already cleared) What’s On Offer: * £65,000 – £70,000 base salary * £5,500 car allowance * Travel expenses covered * 25 days holiday 8 bank holidays * 5% employer pension contribution * Access to higher education & development courses * Perkbox rewards platform * Supportive, team-focused working culture Apply now – interviews are ongoing, and we’re keen to secure the right person as soon as possible