M&E Site Manager

Search Consultancy; Cheltenham; On-site; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment firm in the UK seeks an experienced Site Manager for a high-security data centre project in Cheltenham. This role demands comprehensive safety management and compliance with strict security protocols. Candidates must have a proven background in mechanical & electrical projects, significant contractor experience, and relevant qualifications such as SMSTS and First Aid. The position requires immediate availability for an onsite role with extended shifts anticipated until September 2026.

Qualifications

• Proven background as a Principal Contractor on large-scale projects.
• Experience in high-security or critical environments.
• Prepared for demanding schedules with potential extended shifts.

Responsibilities

• Manage full on-site safety, ensuring a zero-harm culture.
• Coordinate and supervise all M&E and subcontractors.
• Ensure compliance with project specifications and security protocols.
• Chair daily/weekly site meetings and deliver progress reports.
• Enforce site security and access control measures.
• Conduct quality control and inspections throughout the installation.

Skills

Principal Contractor background

Mechanical & Electrical (M&E) expertise

Security Clearance (BPSS and DBS)

Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS)

First Aid at Work Certificate

Job description

Site Manager (Principal Contractor) - High Security Data Centre Project

Cheltenham | Immediate Start until September 2026

We are seeking a dedicated and highly experienced Site Manager for a critical high‑security data centre project in Cheltenham. This is a hands‑on, 100% onsite leadership role demanding the highest levels of integrity, technical expertise, and resilience.

The Role

You will be the senior principal contractor representative on site, responsible for the full safety, delivery, and quality of all mechanical and electrical works. You will manage the site on a day‑to‑day basis, ensuring strict adherence to security protocols, programme deadlines, and the highest standards of workmanship.

Key Requirements

• Essential Experience: Proven background as a Principal Contractor with significant Mechanical & Electrical (M&E) bias on large‑scale, complex projects, ideally within critical or secure environments.
• Location & Hours: This is a 100% onsite role in Cheltenham. You must be prepared for a demanding schedule with the potential for extended shifts (e.g., 12‑hour days, 7 days per week) to meet critical project phases.
• Security Clearance: BPSS and DBS Clearance is essential for start. You must possess a clean background and a fully checkable 5‑year work and address history.
• Mandatory Qualifications:
  • SMSTS (Site Management Safety Training Scheme)
  • Valid First Aid at Work Certificate
• Contract Status: This role is offered on a day‑rate basis. Engagement via a CIS (Construction Industry Scheme) umbrella or limited company is acceptable.

You Will Be Responsible For

• Full on‑site safety management, ensuring a zero‑harm culture.
• Day‑to‑day coordination and supervision of all M&E and associated subcontractors.
• Ensuring all works comply with project specifications, security protocols, and building regulations.
• Chairing daily/weekly site meetings and delivering clear progress reports.
• Rigorous enforcement of site security and access control measures.
• Quality control and inspection throughout the installation process.
• Liaising with the client, professional team, and off‑site project management.

The Project

A high‑security, mission‑critical data centre facility. The successful candidate will understand the sensitive nature of this environment and the non‑negotiable requirements for security, reliability, and precision.

To Apply

Please submit your CV and a covering note outlining your relevant principal contractor experience, particularly on M&E intensive and/or secure projects. Confirm your current clearance status (BPSS/DBS) and your availability for an immediate start in January.

Please note: Due to the security requirements of this project, only candidates who meet the clearable history criteria will be contacted.

Applications without the required qualifications (SMSTS, First Aid) will not be considered.

Start Date: January
Project Duration: Until September 2026
Location: Cheltenham (Site Based)

Search is an equal opportunities recruiter and we welcome applications from all suitably skilled or qualified applicants, regardless of their race, sex, disability, religion/beliefs, sexual orientation or age.