Overview
Contracts Manager — Utilities (clean water bias). Lead and grow the engineering function for a newly formed Utilities Division for an exciting contractor, reporting to the Utilities Engineering Director. This hands‑on role combines team leadership, project delivery and regulatory oversight across water‑focused works across England & Wales, with a mix of remote, office and site‑based working.
Key responsibilities
* Lead and manage engineering teams, supervisors and site personnel delivering utility projects (water‑focused).
* Plan, schedule and deliver projects safely, to specification, on time and within budget.
* Oversee construction and maintenance activities, ensuring correct materials, workmanship and handover.
* Act as escalation point for complex technical, commercial and accreditation enquiries (WIRS, NERS, GIRS).
* Ensure regulatory and statutory compliance across projects; maintain and demonstrate required accreditations.
* Manage client, subcontractor and stakeholder relationships; represent the business at site meetings.
* Develop and implement engineering policies, procedures and standards for the division.
* Produce and manage project forecasts, budgets, programme updates and close‑out documentation.
* Carry out site auditing, site supervision reviews and deliver toolbox talks and safety briefings.
* Monitor asset / system performance and identify opportunities for operational improvement.
* Stay current with industry standards, technical specifications (e.g. CESWI, British Standards) and market developments.
* Contribute to building and developing the Engineering function, nurturing capability and promoting best practice.
Qualifications (Essential)
* Engineering or technical qualification (degree, HNC or equivalent).
* Utility / water industry experience (site supervisor → senior engineering role progression desirable).
* SMSTS and valid CSCS card.
* Membership of a recognised engineering institution (or working towards).
* Full, valid UK driving licence.
Qualifications (Desirable)
* Water SHEA, NCO (W) and Hygiene cards.
* Knowledge of CESWI, WIMES and relevant British Standards.
* Proven experience with WIRS / NERS / GIRS processes and accreditations.
* Experience developing an engineering function and strong commercial / project management capability.
* Familiarity with regulatory frameworks across water, electricity and gas.
Benefits
* Competitive salary and company pension.
* Performance‑related bonus scheme.
* Life assurance and private medical care.
* Annual leave plus bank holidays and volunteering allowance.
* Flexible benefits options and Employee Assistance Programme.
* Company vehicle scheme or mileage allowance where required.
* Ongoing training, development and clear career progression opportunities.
Drive the delivery and growth of a new Utilities Division – if you’re a proactive, technically strong contracts / engineering manager with a proven water background, we want to hear from you. Apply now
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