Works manager

Senior Works Manager / Works Manager - Highways Freelance | Cambridge | 18-Month Initial Contract | CIS Overview We are looking for an experienced Senior Works Manager / Works Manager to join a major highways project in Cambridge on a long-term freelance basis. This is not a role for someone looking to move from contract to contract. We need a committed, reliable professional who will take ownership, integrate with the team, and see the project through from start to finish. There is strong potential for this role to lead to further long-term work beyond the initial 18-month contract for the right person. The Role You will be responsible for the day-to-day delivery of highways works, combining hands-on site leadership with strong control of office-based project management. This role requires someone who stays close to site teams while ensuring all paperwork, RAMS, reporting, and compliance documents are always accurate and up to date. Key Responsibilities Site and Project Delivery Manage and supervise highways works including earthworks, drainage, pavements, and associated infrastructure Work closely with site teams, engineers, and subcontractors Ensure works are delivered in line with programme and key milestones Proactively resolve issues and keep delivery on track Health, Safety and Compliance Maintain high health and safety standards across site Ensure RAMS are prepared, reviewed, and kept up to date Carry out site inspections, audits, and briefings Ensure full compliance with HSE and CDM regulations Documentation and Control Take ownership of all project paperwork and reporting Ensure records, permits, RAMS, and reports are always current and audit-ready Maintain strong organisation across both site and office duties Quality Assurance Ensure all works meet required specifications and quality standards Manage inspections, testing, and sign-offs Identify and resolve defects quickly Stakeholder Management Liaise with councils, National Highways, and the public Attend meetings and represent the business professionally Minimise disruption during works What We're Looking For We are not looking for someone who frequently moves between roles or avoids responsibility. We are looking for someone who is reliable, consistent, and committed to seeing a project through. You should take pride in both site delivery and maintaining high standards of documentation and control. The ability to build strong working relationships and operate independently is essential. Requirements Essential Proven experience as a Works Manager or Senior Works Manager within highways or civil engineering Strong understanding of both site delivery and project administration Experience working under NEC contracts Experience on National Highways frameworks Confident dealing with councils, stakeholders, and the public SMSTS CSCS Card (Manager level) First Aid at Work All certifications in date CIS payment setup Own vehicle Able to provide recent references Desirable HNC, HND, or degree in Civil Engineering or related field Temporary Works Coordinator Experience on major infrastructure projects Familiarity with planning tools such as P6 or MS Project Working Pattern Combination of site-based and office-based responsibilities Flexibility required for occasional nights and weekends Why Apply Long-term 18-month contract with potential for ongoing work Key role with real responsibility across both site and project controls Opportunity to work on a major highways scheme in Cambridge Competitive CIS rates