Mechanical Lead

John Sisk & Son; Roke; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading construction firm in the United Kingdom seeks a Mechanical Lead to oversee the delivery of mechanical systems in life sciences and technology projects. This role involves leading engineers, ensuring compliance with regulations, and driving quality and safety. Ideal candidates have a degree in Mechanical Engineering and proven experience in managing complex projects. Competitive salary, excellent benefits, and a commitment to diversity are offered, creating an inclusive environment for all potential applicants.

Benefits

Competitive salary

26 days annual leave plus additional company days

Pension and benefits

Unlimited learning and development opportunities

Qualifications

• Proven leadership experience delivering mechanical works on large, complex projects.
• Strong understanding of health, safety, and environmental standards.
• Experience with cleanroom and pharmaceutical facilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical function and oversee delivery of all systems.
• Develop and implement execution planning and resource allocation strategies.
• Act as the primary contact for mechanical delivery with clients and regulators.

Skills

Technical expertise in mechanical systems

Leadership experience

Organisational abilities

Communication skills

Health and safety awareness

BIM knowledge

Commercial awareness

Education

Degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent

Job description

Reporting to the Project Director and working closely with the MEP Lead and Engineering Management team, the Mechanical Lead is responsible for the overall delivery of mechanical systems on life sciences and technology projects. This role provides technical and managerial leadership, ensuring mechanical works are designed, installed, tested and commissioned in line with project specifications, programme, budget and regulatory requirements. The Mechanical Lead plays a key role in driving quality, safety and efficiency while ensuring alignment between engineering, construction, commissioning and client expectation.

Leadership and Delivery

• Lead the mechanical function and oversee delivery of all systems including HVAC, utilities, process piping and specialist systems
• Ensure delivery aligns with programme, cost, safety and quality requirements
• Provide technical leadership and guidance to engineers, supervisors and subcontractors
• Develop and implement strategies for execution planning, resource allocation and performance management

Technical and Compliance Oversight

• Review and approve design documents, technical submittals and material selections
• Ensure compliance with client specifications, design standards and applicable regulations (GMP, ISO, ASHRAE, CIBSE)
• Oversee FATs, SATs, commissioning and system turnover for mechanical scope
• Support validation and handover activities with accurate documentation and traceability

Quality, Safety and Risk Management

• Drive adherence to health, safety and environmental policies across all mechanical activities
• Implement and monitor quality assurance and quality control processes
• Identify and manage technical and delivery risks, implementing mitigation measures where necessary
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement, accountability and safety leadership

Stakeholder and Team Coordination

• Act as the primary point of contact for mechanical delivery with clients, consultants and regulatory authorities
• Coordinate closely with electrical, process, civil and architectural teams to ensure project integration
• Lead mechanical coordination meetings and report progress, challenges and opportunities to project leadership
• Build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders to achieve aligned project outcomes

Key Qualifications

• Strong technical expertise in mechanical systems including HVAC, utilities and process installations
• Proven leadership experience delivering mechanical works on large, complex construction or engineering projects
• Excellent organisational, planning and problem‑solving abilities
• Effective communication and team leadership skills with the ability to engage across disciplines
• Strong understanding of health, safety and environmental standards in construction and engineering, Experience with cleanroom, pharmaceutical or biotechnology facilities including GMP environments
• Familiarity with commissioning, validation and system turnover in regulated sectors
• Knowledge of BIM and digital project delivery tools
• Commercial awareness including contract administration and cost management

Essential

• Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Building Services Engineering or equivalent technical qualification
• Demonstrated experience leading mechanical delivery on Tier 1 or equivalent projects
• Valid Safe Pass and relevant health and safety training (e.g. CSCS or equivalent)

Desirable

• Chartered Engineer status or working towards professional membership (e.g. Engineers Ireland, CIBSE, ASHRAE)
• Postgraduate qualification in project management or construction management
• Specialist training in GMP, cleanroom or regulatory compliance relevant to life sciences and technology sectors

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• 26 days annual leave plus additional company days
• Pension and benefits
• Unlimited learning and development opportunities
• Much more

All vacancies are managed directly by our Internal Recruitment Team. Unsolicited contact or speculative CVs from unapproved agencies will not be accepted and no introductory fees will apply. We are an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, disability, age, sexual orientation, religion or any other protected characteristic. Reasonable adjustments are available during the recruitment process. We know the confidence gap and imposter phenomenon can stop talented candidates applying. You do not need to meet every criterion – your skills and potential matter. Don’t hold back we want to hear from you. All recruitment materials comply with legal and regulatory requirements including the EU Pay Transparency Directive and the Equality Acts UK and Ireland.