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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:

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Lead and manage engineering teams, supervisors and site personnel delivering utility projects (water-focused).

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Plan, schedule and deliver projects safely, to specification, on time and within budget.

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Oversee construction and maintenance activities, ensuring correct materials, workmanship and handover.

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Act as escalation point for complex technical, commercial and accreditation enquiries (WIRS, NERS, GIRS).

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Ensure regulatory and statutory compliance across projects; maintain and demonstrate required accreditations.

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Manage client, subcontractor and stakeholder relationships; represent the business at site meetings.

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Develop and implement engineering policies, procedures and standards for the division.

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Produce and manage project forecasts, budgets, programme updates and close-out documentation.

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Carry out site auditing, site supervision reviews and deliver toolbox talks and safety briefings.

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Monitor asset/system performance and identify opportunities for operational improvement.

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Stay current with industry standards, technical specifications (e.g. CESWI, British Standards) and market developments.

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Contribute to building and developing the Engineering function, nurturing capability and promoting best practice.

Qualifications:

Essential

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Engineering or technical qualification (degree, HNC or equivalent).

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Utility/water industry experience (site supervisor → senior engineering role progression desirable).

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SMSTS and valid CSCS card.

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Membership of a recognised engineering institution (or working towards).

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Full, valid UK driving licence.

Desirable

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Water SHEA, NCO (W) and Hygiene cards.

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Knowledge of CESWI, WIMES and relevant British Standards.

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Proven experience with WIRS/NERS/GIRS processes and accreditations.

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Experience developing an engineering function and strong commercial/project management capability.

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Familiarity with regulatory frameworks across water, electricity and gas.

Benefits:

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Competitive salary and company pension.

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Performance-related bonus scheme.

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Life assurance and private medical care.

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Annual leave plus bank holidays and volunteering allowance.

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Flexible benefits options and Employee Assistance Programme.

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Company vehicle scheme or mileage allowance where required.

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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