Contract Operations Manager New Build Residential Carpentry

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

Job summary

A specialist carpentry contractor is seeking a Contract Operations Manager to oversee projects and teams in the Berkshire and Hampshire areas. The role involves managing multiple new build housing sites and ensuring compliance with UK Building Regulations. Ideal candidates will have experience in residential construction and strong leadership skills. Benefits include competitive salary, company van, and progression opportunities.

Benefits

Company van

Fuel card

Electric Vehicle salary sacrifice scheme

Career progression opportunities

Qualifications

• Experience as a Contract Operations Manager in residential construction.
• Strong technical knowledge of UK Building Regulations.
• Track record managing carpentry packages for large-scale residential developments.

Responsibilities

• Deliver carpentry contracts across multiple new build housing sites.
• Report to senior leadership on project performance.
• Supervise carpenters and subcontractors, ensuring high standards of craft.

Skills

Contract management

Knowledge of UK Building Regulations

Leadership

Communication

Negotiation

Budget management

Technical knowledge of carpentry

Education

SMSTS

CSCS Black/Gold card

NVQ Level 6

Tools

MS Office

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.

Why Join Us

For over 25 years, we've built our reputation as a trusted carpentry contractor for Tier 1 developers and principal contractors by combining quality work with a people-first approach. Our culture is built on fairness, respect, and opportunity.

As Contract Operations Manager, you'll manage projects, lead teams, and help shape the business. With strong progression opportunities, benefits (company van, fuel card, Pirkx, and EV salary sacrifice scheme), and a supportive environment, this is a chance to grow your career in a company where people matter. Our workforce delivers high-quality first and second fix carpentry and timber works, meeting strict safety and regulatory standards.

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.
• Ability to manage employees and subcontractors, balancing workforce planning with quality and performance requirements.
• Excellent commercial awareness with ability to manage budgets, costs, contract variations, and design changes.
• Strong leadership, communication, and negotiation skills.
• Proven ability to influence change, drive improvements, and contribute to long-term growth of the business.
• Demonstrated ability to keep comprehensive records and prepare clear documentation for clients and internal use.
• Confident in liaising with NHBC inspectors and Health & Safety officers, ensuring compliance and resolving issues effectively.
• Proficient 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 equivalent; SMSTS; 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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