General purpose of role:
The Technical Services Manager will manage the technical services elements of our laboratory and controlled environments fit out project from initial brief, through the tender, to installation and finally the achievement of successful completion. Working closely with the Bid Director, Lead Designer, Project Manager, M&E Estimator, the TSM will be responsible for providing guidance and instruction to the sub-contractor team, design consultants, construction project managers, clients and directors.
Key Accountabilities:
Area’s Technical Services Manager for laboratory fit-outs plays a pivotal role in overseeing the design, implementation, and successful delivery of technical services within laboratory fit out and renovation projects. Their responsibilities span across multiple disciplines, including mechanical, electrical, plumbing (MEP), HVAC, and specialized laboratory equipment systems.
Below are the typical job functions and responsibilities of this role:
1. Project Management
* Coordination and Planning: Work closely with architects, engineers, contractors, and clients to plan and execute the technical aspects of the laboratory fit-out.
* Scheduling: Develop and manage project timelines for technical services, ensuring that the installation of utilities and systems aligns with the broader project schedule.
* Budget Management: Oversee the budget for the technical services aspect of the fit-out, including cost estimation and procurement of materials and services.
* Risk Management: Identify potential risks related to technical systems and work with teams to mitigate them.
2. Technical Oversight and Compliance
* System Design and Specification: Ensure the design and specification of laboratory systems (e.g., HVAC, gas lines, plumbing, electrical systems, cleanrooms, fume hoods, etc.) meet both the project requirements and industry standards.
* Compliance with Regulations: Ensure that the laboratory’s technical systems comply with local, national, and industry-specific regulations (e.g., OSHA, ASHRAE standards, health and safety codes).
* Validation and Testing: Oversee the commissioning, validation, and performance testing of technical systems to ensure they meet operational and safety requirements.
3. Collaboration with Stakeholders
* Client Interaction: Act as the point of contact for the client regarding technical services. Understand the client’s needs and translate them into technical requirements for the fit-out.
* Vendor and Contractor Management: Liaise with suppliers, contractors, and subcontractors to ensure that technical equipment is delivered and installed correctly and on time.
* Coordination with Design Teams: Work with architects and engineers to ensure that the technical services align with the design and layout of the laboratory, considering functionality and space constraints.
4. Installation and Commissioning
* Supervision of Installation: Oversee the installation of laboratory utilities such as water, electricity, HVAC systems, ventilation, gas lines, and specialized equipment (like autoclaves or environmental chambers).
* Troubleshooting: Provide solutions for any issues that arise during the installation of technical systems.
* System Integration: Ensure all systems (MEP, IT, etc.) integrate effectively with each other and with the laboratory's functional needs.
5. Health and Safety
* Safe Installation: Ensure that the technical services installation is done safely, both during the fit-out and after the lab is operational.
* Environmental Controls: Manage the installation of environmental systems (e.g., cleanroom standards, fume hoods, hazardous material storage) to maintain a safe working environment.
6. Maintenance Planning
* Post-Fit-Out Support: Provide guidelines and support for ongoing maintenance of laboratory systems.
* Training and Documentation: Train the laboratory staff on the use and maintenance of technical systems. Provide comprehensive documentation for future maintenance.
7. Quality Control
* Material and Equipment Standards: Ensure that all technical equipment, materials, and installations meet the project’s quality standards.
* Inspection and Auditing: Conduct regular inspections to ensure compliance with project specifications, safety regulations, and quality benchmarks.
8. Sustainability and Efficiency
* Energy Efficiency: Implement systems and strategies to ensure that the laboratory operates efficiently, considering energy usage and environmental impact.
* Green Building Standards: Work towards certifications such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) by incorporating sustainable practices in the technical services.
9. Problem-Solving and Innovation
* Custom Solutions: Develop innovative solutions to unique technical challenges in the lab environment, often requiring customization for specialized equipment or research activities.
* Continuous Improvement: Stay up to date with emerging technologies and best practices in laboratory fit-outs and technical services.
10. Reporting and Documentation
* Project Updates: Provide regular updates to stakeholders and project managers about the status of technical services, potential issues, and progress.
* As-built Documentation: Ensure the creation of accurate as-built documentation for all systems, which will be vital for future maintenance and upgrades.
Summary of Key Systems Managed:
* HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning)
* Plumbing, Medical Gas, and Water Systems
* Electrical and Power Systems
* IT and Network Infrastructure
* Laboratory-specific equipment (fume hoods, autoclaves, cleanrooms, etc.)
Essential Skills:
* Technical Expertise in MEP systems, laboratory equipment, and construction standards.
* Project Management Skills including scheduling, budgeting, and risk management.
* Problem-solving and Innovation, especially in customizing technical solutions.
* Regulatory Knowledge regarding safety, health, and environmental requirements.
Professional Skills & Experience:
* Good working knowledge of latest version of Revit or AutoCAD.
* Demonstrate extensive technical expertise across the design and build of Mechanical and Electrical Services.
* Experience with an M&E contractor or consultant background, on commercial projects ranging from £500K-10m+
* Ability to build relationships, internally and externally.
* If candidates have a bias we would prefer if it is towards Mechanical rather than Electrical.
Personal attributes:
* Team Player
* Dynamic with flexible approach
* Driven & ambitious
* Proactive and accountable attitude
* Clean driving license
* Good communicator
* Self-motivated
Salary
* Annual salary £75K-£90K dependent on experience
* Car allowance £6,600
* Good commission structure
* Annual Leave- 25 days per annum (increasing to 30 days with long service) plus bank holidays.
* Other leave- 3 charity days per annum and your birthday off.
* ‘Shaking the Trees’ Client Introduction Scheme (for employees not in BD/Sales positions).
* Private Health Care with Vitality.
* Group Income Protection - covers 75% of base salary and pension contributions.
* Group Life Assurance- four times basic salary.
* Employee Assistance Programme.
* Enhanced maternity & paternity.
* Electric Car scheme.