Contract Operations Manager (New Build Residential Carpentry)

SC4 Carpenters; Heads Hill; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent construction company in the United Kingdom is seeking a Contract Operations Manager to oversee residential carpentry projects. Candidates must possess extensive knowledge of UK building regulations and fire safety compliance, alongside strong project management and leadership skills. The position offers a competitive salary and opportunities for career progression within a growing specialist contractor.

Benefits

Competitive salary and benefits

Company van and fuel card

Electric Vehicle salary sacrifice scheme

Career progression opportunities

Supportive company culture

Qualifications

• Experience managing carpentry packages for large-scale residential projects.
• Sound knowledge of health & safety regulations.
• Proven record of leading teams effectively.

Responsibilities

• Oversee multiple residential projects ensuring timely delivery.
• Collaborate with operations team to drive improvements.
• Manage costs to meet contractual obligations.

Skills

UK Building Regulations knowledge

Fire safety compliance

Project management

Leadership skills

Budget management

Communication skills

MS Office proficiency

Education

SMSTS certification

CSCS Black/Gold card

NVQ Level 6

Tools

Project management software

Job description

Overview

Contract Operations Manager (New Build Residential Carpentry)

Location: Berkshire, Hampshire & Surrounding Areas (M4/M3 Corridor)

Reports To: Associate Director and Directors

Salary: £40K - 50K (dependent on experience)

Employment Type: Full-time, Permanent

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced Contract Operations Manager with strong knowledge of UK building regulations, fire safety compliance, and fire ratings in carpentry. You\'ll oversee multiple residential projects, ensuring delivery on time, within budget, and to the highest standards.

Reporting to the Operations Directors and Associate Director, you\'ll collaborate with peers across operations. In line with our ethos, this role is about more than managing contracts - it\'s about leading people fairly, fostering respect on site, and creating an environment where both employees and subcontractors thrive.

This role also offers scope to drive improvements, support business growth, and strengthen our position as a trusted partner.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver carpentry contracts across multiple new build housing sites.
• Report to senior leadership on project performance.
• Collaborate with fellow Operations Managers and the wider team.
• Act as main contact with developers, contractors, site teams, and clients.
• Plan, resource, and manage costs to meet contractual obligations.
• Ensure works comply with UK Building Regulations, drawings, and NHBC standards.
• Provide guidance on fire ratings, compartmentation, and passive fire protection.
• Carry out site visits, quality inspections, and progress meetings.
• Supervise carpenters and subcontractors, ensuring high standards of craft, safety, and productivity.
• Support supervisors and site teams to meet programme milestones.
• Maintain accurate project records for compliance, commercial, and contractual purposes, using digital tools and platforms.
• Liaise with NHBC on technical queries, inspections, and compliance.
• Conduct Health & Safety inspections and Toolbox Talks, providing evidence of compliance.
• Manage variations, valuations, and reporting with QS and commercial teams.
• Ensure compliance with CDM Regulations and company policies.
• Resolve technical issues, defects, and client queries quickly and effectively.

Skills & Experience Required

• Experience as a Contract Operations Manager, Project Manager, or Senior Site Manager in residential construction.
• Strong technical knowledge of UK Building Regulations, particularly regarding carpentry quality standards, fire safety, and compliance.
• Extended H&S qualifications (Managers Health & Safety Training)
• Track record managing carpentry packages for large-scale residential new build developments.
• Shown ability to manage employees and subcontractors, balancing workforce planning with quality and performance requirements.
• Excellent commercial awareness with the ability to manage budgets, costs, contract variations, and specification and design changes.
• Strong leadership, communication, and negotiation skills.
• Proven ability to influence change, drive improvements, and contribute to the long-term growth of the business.
• Demonstrated ability to keep comprehensive records and prepare clear documentation for clients, governing bodies, and internal use.
• Confident in liaising with NHBC inspectors and Health & Safety officers, ensuring compliance and resolving issues effectively.
• Competent in MS Office, project management software, and digital reporting tools.
• Relevant qualifications (e.g., SMSTS, CSCS Black/Gold card, NVQ Level 6, or equivalent).

Preferably

• Prior hands-on experience working as a carpenter, with a strong understanding of site-based challenges and practical solutions.
• Carpentry Qualifications: NVQ or work for a specialist trade contractor
• SMSTS - Site Management Training Scheme
• Crane Supervisor or Appointed Person
• Formal training or certification in fire safety or passive fire protection.
• NVQ 6 Construction Site Management
• Membership of CIOB, RICS, or similar professional body.
• Experience in value engineering, timber frame installation, and/or modern methods of construction (MMC).

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and benefits.
• Company van and fuel card.
• Electric Vehicle salary sacrifice scheme.
• Opportunities to work with Tier 1 developers and main contractors on high-profile projects.
• Career progression within a growing, specialist carpentry contractor.
• A supportive culture built on respect and fairness - true to our founding ethos.
• The chance to play a key role in shaping the company\'s future success.

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