Industrial Placement Project Manager

Opals Group; Stockport; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading utility engineering contractor in the UK is seeking an experienced Project Manager to oversee water-related engineering projects. This role involves project planning, budget management, and team leadership, ensuring projects are delivered efficiently and safely. Ideal candidates will have a Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering and proven project management experience, alongside strong communication skills and knowledge of industry standards. A full UK driving license is essential for travel to various sites.

Benefits

Career development opportunities

Inclusive work environment

Commitment to safety and integrity

Qualifications

• Proven experience in project management, preferably in water‑related projects.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Full UK driving licence - travel to other sites.

Responsibilities

• Oversee planning, execution, and completion of water projects.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to define project objectives and scope.
• Manage project budgets and ensure cost control throughout the lifecycle.

Skills

Leadership skills

Communication abilities

Project management software proficiency

Knowledge of water industry standards

Cost control

Education

Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering

Masters in Project Management (optional)

Job description

Role Overview

As a Project Manager specialising in water projects in the UK, you will be responsible for overseeing the successful planning, execution, and completion of water‑related engineering projects. Your role will involve coordinating with various stakeholders, managing project teams, and ensuring that projects are delivered within scope, budget, and schedule. You will play a key role in driving efficiency, quality, and safety throughout the project lifecycle.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Project Planning and Initiation: Collaborate with clients and internal teams to define project objectives, scope, and deliverables. Develop comprehensive project plans, including timelines, budgets, and resource allocation. Conduct feasibility studies and risk assessments to identify potential challenges and mitigation strategies. Obtain necessary approvals and permits from regulatory authorities.
• Team Management: Build and lead project teams, including engineers, designers, contractors, and support staff. Assign tasks and responsibilities to team members, ensuring clear communication of project expectations. Foster a collaborative and productive work environment to maximize team performance.
• Budget and Cost Control: Manage project budgets and ensure cost control throughout the project lifecycle. Monitor expenses, review financial reports, and implement cost‑saving measures when appropriate.
• Schedule and Progress Monitoring: Develop project schedules and critical milestones, ensuring adherence to deadlines. Monitor project progress, identify deviations, and implement corrective actions as needed. Regularly report project status to stakeholders, providing updates on milestones, risks, and achievements.
• Risk Management: Identify potential risks and develop risk mitigation plans to minimize project disruptions. Proactively address emerging issues and unforeseen challenges during project execution.
• Quality Assurance and Compliance: Ensure that projects comply with relevant industry standards, regulations, and quality assurance protocols. Conduct regular inspections and audits to maintain high‑quality deliverables.
• Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE): Promote a strong safety culture throughout the project, enforcing safety protocols and practices. Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Client Communication and Stakeholder Management: Maintain regular communication with clients to address their concerns and provide project updates. Manage relationships with stakeholders, including local authorities and community members.
• Project Closure and Documentation: Conduct project reviews to evaluate outcomes and identify areas for improvement. Prepare project documentation, including final reports, as‑built drawings, and lessons learned.

Skills and Experience

• A bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, or a related field.
• Proven experience in project management, preferably in water‑related projects.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Proficiency in project management software and tools.
• Knowledge of water industry standards, regulations, and best practices in the UK.
• Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is a plus.
• Full UK driving licence - travel to other sites
• Masters in Project Management or similar (optional)

What We Value

We value our commitment to each other, summed up in our five values, we all sign up to these… We care about safety. We lead with integrity. We strive to be better every day. We make a positive impact. We deliver to grow. We are one company united.

Our Aim & Vision at OCU

To be the UK's leading energy transition and utilities contractor.

We are committed to leading the way in utilities and energy transition contracting, our mission is to innovate and deliver sustainability. At OCU, our passion for addressing complex challenges brings new standards of growth in our people and capabilities. OCU is an equal opportunities employer.

Company Information

Established in 1994, OCU Group is one of the fastest growing utility engineering contractors in the UK, with a long successful track record in delivering customer‑focused civil engineering solutions.

Working directly with many of the country’s leading blue‑chip power, water, telecoms, and rail clients, we are looking for the very best talent to join our growing team.

We pride ourselves on empowering our employees and offering opportunities for them to take control of their own personal development and career progression in a supportive environment.

We believe that being successful is a choice.

We choose to be successful.

We are OCU, ‘One Company United’.

We celebrate difference and appreciate diverse backgrounds. We encourage everyone who join us to be themselves at work and create inclusive teams in our workplace.