Senior Site Manager

Thorn Baker Recruitment Ltd; Faringdon; On-site; GBP 52,000 - 59,000; Full time

Job summary

Thorn Baker Recruitment Ltd is seeking a Senior Site Manager for a contract assignment at a school in Oxfordshire. You will oversee a new build classroom block and student services building, directly managing a Site Manager and an Assistant Site Manager.

You will lead health and safety compliance, coordinate with clients and subcontractors, and monitor progress against schedules and budgets to ensure quality and timely delivery.

Qualifications

• SMSTS certificate required.
• CSCS card required.
• First Aid qualification required.
• Full, clean driving licence.
• Enhanced DBS check required.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all aspects of the site operations for the new build classroom block and student services building simultaneously.
• Supervise, support and direct the Site Manager and Assistant Site Manager to ensure efficient workflow and compliance with project specifications.
• Ensure adherence to health and safety legislation and company policies on site at all times, including conducting regular site inspections and risk assessments.
• Maintain effective communication with clients, subcontractors, suppliers, and other stakeholders to resolve issues promptly and maintain project momentum.
• Monitor progress against programme schedules and budgets, identifying and mitigating any risks or delays.
• Prepare and present regular reports on site progress, quality, safety, and cost control to senior management and clients.

Skills

Leadership

Site management

Health & safety

Communication

Stakeholder management

Team supervision

Organisation

Problem solving

Documentation

Pressure handling

Job description

Senior Site Manager

Location: Faringdon, Oxfordshire

Job Type: Contract, Full-Time

Start date: November 2026

Duration: 50 weeks

Salary: £280 - £320 per day

About the Role

We are seeking a Freelance Senior Site Manager to oversee the construction of a new build classroom block and student services building at a school in Oxfordshire. This role requires direct management of a Site Manager and an Assistant Site Manager, ensuring that both projects progress concurrently to meet quality, time, and budget requirements. The successful candidate will demonstrate strong leadership and communication skills to coordinate site activities, maintain health and safety standards, and liaise effectively with all stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all aspects of the site operations for the new build classroom block and student services building simultaneously.
• Supervise, support and direct the Site Manager and Assistant Site Manager to ensure efficient workflow and compliance with project specifications.
• Ensure adherence to health and safety legislation and company policies on site at all times, including conducting regular site inspections and risk assessments.
• Maintain effective communication with clients, subcontractors, suppliers, and other stakeholders to resolve issues promptly and maintain project momentum.
• Monitor progress against programme schedules and budgets, identifying and mitigating any risks or delays.
• Prepare and present regular reports on site progress, quality, safety, and cost control to senior management and clients.
• Ensure all site personnel hold the appropriate qualifications and certifications and that site documentation is accurate and up to date.
• Promote best practise in construction methods, quality control, and environmental considerations.
• Manage resources effectively, including labour, plant, and materials, to optimise productivity and reduce waste.

Required Qualifications and Certifications

• Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS) certificate.
• Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card.
• Valid First Aid qualification.
• Full, clean driving licence.
• Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.

Education and Experience

• Proven experience as a Senior Site Manager within the construction industry, preferably within new build school projects.
• Demonstrable track record of managing multiple site operations simultaneously.
• Strong knowledge of construction techniques, health and safety regulations, and quality standards.
• Experience in coordinating and supervising site teams to deliver projects on time and within budget.

Knowledge and Skills

• Comprehensive understanding of new build school construction requirements and project delivery.
• Excellent leadership and team management skills.
• Strong organisational and problem-solving abilities.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills to engage with a variety of stakeholders.
• Competency in site administration and project documentation.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.

Working Conditions

• The role is site-based with frequent outdoor work in variable weather conditions.
• Full-time hours are expected, with flexibility required to meet project demands.
• Contract position with the possibility of extension depending on project progress.