Junior Contracts Manager & Design & Build

Henley Chase; London Colney; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A growing design and build contractor in London is seeking a motivated Junior Contracts Manager to support the delivery of diverse construction projects. The ideal candidate will assist in managing contracts, procurement, and commercial administration while developing within a supportive project team. This role is perfect for a commercially aware construction professional eager to progress their career. The company offers competitive salary, clear growth opportunities, and professional development support.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Clear career progression

Support with professional development

Company pension and benefits package

Qualifications

• 1-3 years' experience in a commercial or contracts role within construction.
• Exposure to Design & Build projects.
• Basic understanding of standard forms of contract (e.g., JCT).

Responsibilities

• Assist in the management of Design & Build contracts.
• Support procurement of subcontractors and suppliers.
• Work closely with Project Managers and Site Teams.

Skills

Strong numerical and analytical skills

Good communication and interpersonal skills

Organised and detail-oriented

Proficient in Microsoft Excel

Education

Degree or HNC/HND in Quantity Surveying or similar

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Overview

Job Title: Junior Contracts Manager

Location: London

Sector: Design & Build - Student Accommodation & Industrial/Warehouse Projects

Reporting to: Contracts Manager / Senior Contracts Manager / Commercial Director

Role Overview: We are seeking a motivated Junior Contracts Manager to support the delivery of Design & Build construction projects across the student accommodation and industrial/warehouse sectors. The successful candidate will assist in managing contracts, procurement, and commercial administration while developing their skills within a supportive project team. This role is ideal for a commercially aware construction professional looking to progress their career within a growing main contractor or developer-led contractor environment.

Responsibilities

• Contract & Commercial Support
  • Assist with the administration and management of Design & Build contracts
  • Support preparation, review, and management of subcontractor packages
  • Assist with valuations, variations, and change control processes
  • Maintain accurate commercial records and cost reports
  • Support final account preparation
• Procurement
  • Assist with procurement of subcontractors and suppliers
  • Prepare enquiry packages and analyse tender returns
  • Support negotiation of subcontract terms and pricing
• Project Support
  • Work closely with Project Managers, Site Teams, and Commercial Managers
  • Assist with cost forecasting and budget tracking
  • Support risk and value management processes
  • Attend site meetings and commercial reviews as required
• Compliance & Documentation
  • Ensure contracts and subcontracts align with company procedures
  • Maintain document control relating to commercial and contractual matters
  • Support dispute avoidance and resolution processes

Required Experience & Skills

• 1-3 years' experience in a commercial or contracts role within construction
• Exposure to Design & Build projects
• Experience or involvement in student accommodation, residential, or industrial/warehouse schemes preferred
• Basic understanding of standard forms of contract (e.g., JCT)
• Strong numerical and analytical skills
• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• Organised, detail-oriented, and eager to learn
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel and general Office software

Desirable

• Degree or HNC/HND in Quantity Surveying, Commercial Management, Construction Management, or similar
• Working towards RICS, CIOB, or equivalent professional qualification
• Experience supporting subcontract procurement and valuations

What We Offer

• Competitive salary (dependent on experience)
• Clear career progression and mentoring
• Exposure to high-quality Design & Build projects
• Support with professional development and training
• Company pension and benefits package