Pre-Construction Project Manager

IES Utilities Group LTD; Remote; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading utility provider in the UK is seeking a Pre-Construction Project Manager to oversee the bidding, design, and mobilisation of projects in their Gas Division. The role demands a strong engineering background, with responsibilities including technical input during bid preparation and managing multi-discipline projects. The ideal candidate will possess excellent organizational skills and the ability to engage stakeholders effectively. This position offers competitive compensation and opportunities for career development in a dynamic work environment.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Opportunities for career development

Supportive team environment

High safety and quality standards

Qualifications

• Strong background in engineering and construction management, ideally in a high-pressure gas environment.
• Proven experience in pre-construction and/or project management of multi-discipline projects.
• Understanding of project design development including FEED and Detailed Design.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical input and support during bid preparation.
• Develop mobilisation plans and coordinate resources for awarded projects.
• Manage project governance from award through to operational handover.

Skills

Engineering and construction management

Project management of multi-discipline projects

Stakeholder engagement skills

Organizational skills

Job description

Job Title: Pre-Construction Project Manager – Gas Division

Salary: Competitive with benefits package

Location: Nationwide

Contract: Permanent / Contract

About IES

IES Utilities Group Ltd is a leading UK utility provider delivering end-to-end utility solutions. Our teams operate across Power, Gas, Water, Telecoms, District Heating and Renewables, where we provide survey, design, construction and maintenance services nationwide. With a commitment to innovation, safety and sustainability, IES supports clients in building and maintaining resilient, future-ready infrastructure networks across the UK. Headquartered in Manchester, IES continues to grow as a trusted partner in the utilities sector.

About the Gas Division

The IES Gas Division operates across two principal workstreams: Pipelines and Above‑Ground Installations (AGIs) — encompassing Pressure Reduction Stations (PRSs), Offtakes, Compressor Stations and Terminals. Each stream delivers both core maintenance works, typically single‑discipline and non‑complex, and multi‑discipline or complex projects that integrate civil, mechanical and electrical engineering elements.

The Division’s reputation has been built on the safe, reliable and high‑quality delivery of maintenance works across the National & Local Transmission Systems forming the backbone of IESs client relationships and financial stability. However, the largest growth opportunity lies in expanding the Division’s multi‑discipline and technically complex projects across both Pipelines and AGIs. These works demand deeper technical collaboration, early client engagement and strategic alignment with each of our customers’ investment and energy transition objectives, including emerging initiatives in Hydrogen and Carbon Capture infrastructure.

Role Summary

The Pre‑Construction Project Manager will play a pivotal role in supporting our works through the bidding, design and mobilisation of projects under various framework contracts. This includes providing technical input during pre‑contract proposal generation and then managing call‑off projects from award through the detailed design phase, if applicable, and leading on the production of all pre‑start deliverables leading to a seamless handover to the operational delivery team. The role will also include providing technical consultancy to the operational delivery teams through the construction and commissioning phases ensuring a clear route to success from conception to completion.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide technical input and support during bid preparation for call‑off contracts under framework agreements.
• Collaborate with estimating and commercial teams to ensure accurate and competitive proposals.
• Develop mobilisation plans and coordinate resources for awarded projects.
• Act as the primary point of contact during pre‑construction and mobilisation phases.
• Take responsibility for the project management (on time, to budget and right quality) of all pre‑construction deliverables.
• Manage project governance from award through to operational handover, ensuring compliance with safety, quality and schedule requirements.
• Liaise with internal and external design, engineering and delivery teams to ensure readiness for execution.
• Identify risks and implement mitigation strategies during pre‑construction stages.
• Maintain strong relationships with clients and stakeholders, ensuring transparency and trust.

Support continuous improvement by capturing lessons learned and feeding back into bid and delivery processes.

Essential Skills & Experience

• Strong background in engineering and construction management, ideally in a high‑pressure gas environment advantageous.
• Proven experience in pre‑construction and/or project management of multi‑discipline projects under framework contracts.
• Understanding and appreciation of project design development (FEED and Detailed Design).
• Familiarity with NEC3/NEC4 contracts and associated governance.
• Excellent organisational and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities effectively.

Some knowledge of Hydrogen, CCUS and energy transition projects is advantageous.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary / remuneration
• Opportunity to own a portfolio of projects and shape service delivery.
• Supportive team environment committed to high safety & quality standards along with a self‑delivery resourcing strategy.

Career development opportunities within a growing energy services company.

How to Apply

If you believe you have the skills and experience we are looking for, please submit your CV, including a brief covering note outlining your most relevant Pre‑Construction, Construction and Design Project Management experience to [e-mail]. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply.