Mechanical Contracts Manager

James Lewis Recruitment; Cheltenham; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A recruitment agency in the UK is searching for an experienced Mechanical Contracts Manager to oversee mechanical works on cutting-edge data centre and MOD projects in Cheltenham. The role offers the opportunity to manage subcontractors and site delivery while responsible for financial outcomes. Candidates should possess strong knowledge of HVAC systems and experience in critical environments, with a possibility to convert to a permanent position. Salary is between £350-£450 per day.

Qualifications

• Proven track record delivering mechanical contracts valued at £5m or more.
• Experience in critical environments like hospitals or MOD facilities.
• Ability to navigate complex technical settings.

Responsibilities

• Oversee delivery of mechanical works with full financial responsibility.
• Manage site teams and subcontractors effectively.
• Forecast and report on cost, margin, and risk.

Skills

Management of mechanical contracts

Knowledge of HVAC systems

Client relationship management

Project forecasting and reporting

Education

HNC/HND/Degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

BMS

Chilled water systems

Job description

Mechanical Contracts Manager - Data Centres & Defence (Freelance) Cheltenham | £350-£450 per day CIS or LTD | Long‑term freelance (temp‑to‑perm opportunity)

If you're a mechanical contracts or projects manager looking to step into a leadership role on cutting‑edge data centre and secure MOD projects, this long‑term freelance position could be a great fit. You'll be based in Cheltenham, overseeing mechanical packages on highly technical, secure‑site projects, with the option for the role to convert to permanent for the right person.

The Role

• Full financial and delivery responsibility for the mechanical works.
• Planning and overseeing delivery of chilled water systems, pipework, AHUs and associated HVAC infrastructure.
• Managing site delivery teams, subcontractors, plant and material logistics.
• Forecasting and reporting on cost, margin, and risk.
• Coordinating design, compliance, H&S and project documentation.
• Supporting both pre‑construction and on‑site phases through to commissioning and handover.
• Working closely with commercial, technical and client teams.
• Acting as the face of the contractor on site, maintaining and strengthening client relationships.

Projects You’ll Be Involved With

• Live data centre expansion.
• Secure MOD facilities projects.

What We’re Looking For

We're open to candidates from critical infrastructure sectors – you don't need direct data centre experience, but you must be used to complex technical environments. Ideally, you'll bring:

• HNC/HND/Degree in Mechanical Engineering or Building Services.
• Proven track record delivering mechanical contracts (ideally £5m+ value).
• Strong knowledge of chilled water, AHUs, pipework, BMS and associated HVAC systems.
• Experience in live/critical environments (e.g. hospitals, pharma, MOD, data centres).
• SMSTS, First Aid, Black CSCS Card.
• Full UK Driving Licence.
• Able to obtain SC/DV security clearance (or already cleared).

If you're an experienced Mechanical Contracts or Projects Manager interested in a long‑term freelance role in Cheltenham with genuine potential to go temp‑to‑perm, please get in touch.