Project Director – Tunnelling & Civil Engineering
Location: UK-wide projects (with travel as required)
Red Sky Personnel is recruiting on behalf of a major UK contractor to appoint an experienced Project Director. This is a key leadership role delivering complex tunnelling and civils schemes including microtunnelling, shaft sinking, pipe jacking, and TBM works. The successful candidate will oversee performance across programme, cost, safety, and quality, ensuring smooth delivery from mobilisation through to handover. You will take full responsibility for project delivery across multiple sites, working closely with commercial, engineering, and site teams to ensure technical excellence, contractual compliance, and high client satisfaction.
Key Responsibilities
Project Delivery
* Lead multi-disciplinary teams across all stages of complex tunnelling and civils works
* Maintain full control over programme, safety, cost, quality, and resourcing
* Implement best practice across TBM operations, microtunnelling, shaft sinking, and pipe jacking
Technical & Operational Oversight
* Oversee design reviews and ensure integrity of temporary works and construction methodology
* Resolve delays and issues promptly, ensuring high standards are maintained on site
Commercial & Contract Management
* Full accountability for NEC and similar contract performance, including variations and claims
* Work with commercial teams to manage subcontractors, final accounts, and margin improvement
Team Leadership
* Build and manage project teams; support career development and succession planning
* Promote a positive and accountable team culture
Health, Safety & Environment
* Uphold a strong safety culture and ensure compliance with RAMS and project-specific procedures
* Lead on audits, site inspections, and continuous improvement
Stakeholder & Client Management
* Act as senior point of contact for clients, JV partners, and key stakeholders
* Represent the business in meetings, reviews, and industry forums
Candidate Profile
Essential:
* Extensive leadership experience on major civils/tunnelling projects (£20m+)
* Strong knowledge of TBMs, pipe jacking, shaft sinking, and microtunnelling
* Proven commercial experience under NEC or similar forms of contract
* Effective team leader with excellent communication skills
* HND/HNC or Degree in Civil Engineering
* CSCS Black Card and SMSTS (or equivalent)
Desirable:
* Chartered status or working towards (CEng, MICE, etc.)
* Experience with JV or alliance models
* Knowledge of temporary works, dewatering, and ground treatment
* Competence with digital construction and reporting tools
This is a standout opportunity to join a respected UK business at the forefront of specialist civil engineering delivery.
To apply or find out more, contact Rachel Marrey at Red Sky Personnel:
JBRP1_UKTJ