Highways Site Agent

Carrington West; East Hagbourne; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A civil engineering contractor is seeking an experienced Site Agent to lead a major highways development project in Oxfordshire. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing site engineers, ensuring project delivery aligns with specifications and budget expectations, and upholding health and safety standards. This role requires strong leadership, proven ability to manage projects, and a relevant engineering qualification. Generous benefits include a car allowance and extensive annual leave.

Benefits

Car allowance

Subsidised private medical cover

Life assurance scheme

Contributory pension

35 days annual leave

Qualifications

• Demonstrable experience in a similar Site Agent or Section Manager role.
• Proven ability to manage project teams and subcontractors.
• SMSTS certification is essential.

Responsibilities

• Manage and mentor Site Engineers and Section Engineers.
• Support the Project Manager in all aspects of the construction phase.
• Promote and uphold health and safety standards across the site.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Analytical thinking

Project management

Education

HNC or higher qualification in Civil Engineering

Tools

AutoCAD

Job description

Highways Site Agent - Permanent Opportunity

Division: Civil Engineering

Location: Didcot, Oxfordshire

Benefits include: Car allowance, subsidised private medical cover, life assurance scheme, contributory pension, 35 days annual leave (including public holidays), and living away from home allowance (where appropriate).

About the Role

My client, an established and growing civil engineering contractor, is seeking an experienced and motivated Site Agent to join their team on a major highways development project in Oxfordshire. This key role will see the successful candidate take a proactive leadership position in delivering a complex civil infrastructure project to the highest standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and mentor Site Engineers and Section Engineers.
• Support the Project Manager in all aspects of the construction phase.
• Coordinate with the Project Manager to manage and allocate project resources efficiently.
• Assist with project planning and ensure progress aligns with programme and budget expectations.
• Prepare and review work package plans and management documentation.
• Liaise with the planning department to maintain accurate programme data.
• Monitor compliance with contractual obligations.
• Manage subcontractors and suppliers effectively.
• Collaborate with commercial teams to ensure timely documentation and record‑keeping.
• Promote and uphold health and safety standards across the site.
• Lead and attend regular site meetings.
• Maintain daily site diaries and activity briefings.
• Support quality assurance and environmental compliance.
• Ensure delivery is in line with project specifications and standards.
• Contribute to project close‑out reports and lessons learned.
• Adhere to and promote the company's Integrated Management System (IMS).
• Champion a strong safety culture within the project team.

Person Specification

Technical Competencies - Essential:

• Demonstrable experience in a similar Site Agent or Section Manager role.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Sound technical knowledge and understanding of NEC contracts.
• HNC or higher qualification in Civil Engineering.
• Proven ability to manage project teams and subcontractors.

Desirable:

• Previous experience on highway infrastructure schemes.
• Experience managing standalone projects or leading sections of major works.
• CPCS Appointed Person (Lifting).
• Temporary Works Coordinator trained.
• Competency in AutoCAD.

Health & Safety - Essential:

• SMSTS certification.
• First Aid at Work qualification.
• Strong understanding of current Health & Safety and CDM regulations.

Behavioural Competencies - Essential

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, adaptable to a variety of stakeholders.
• Analytical thinker with a solutions‑focused mindset.
• Self‑motivated with a proactive approach to problem‑solving and continuous improvement.
• Team‑oriented with the ability to influence and collaborate effectively.
• Capable planner with sound judgement in prioritising workload.
• Flexible and resilient in managing change.

FOOTNOTE

If you feel that you are right for this role technically, but the salary, location or seniority does not suit you specifically then please still feel free to send us your CV. We constantly recruit for roles very similar to this one at all levels UK Wide. We are always keen to chat with you discreetly about your employment situation.

Even if you are happy in your current role for now, we always welcome calls from Highways professionals keen to make their introductions for future months or years. Carrington West's Highways, Transport & Infrastructure division is the fastest growing in the country, our specialist team has a combined over 100+ years' experience in this market. Please call Jordan Townley at Carrington West on 023 9431 4917 or email [e-mail] for more information.

By applying for this position, you are agreeing for Carrington West to hold and process your personal data in accordance with our Data Protection Policy. Your data will be shared with third‑party clients specifically relevant to any roles you have applied for. If at any stage, you wish to withdraw your consent please contact us.