Site Agent - Reservoir

ZipRecruiter; Manchester; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in the water and infrastructure sector is seeking a Freelance Site Agent to oversee maintenance and capital works projects. The successful candidate will manage site safety, quality, and commercial aspects while ensuring effective collaboration with stakeholders. This role offers a competitive daily rate and the opportunity to work on significant projects across the North West.

Qualifications

• Proven track record in managing civil engineering projects in water or infrastructure.
• Strong understanding of CDM regulations.
• Excellent planning and delivery skills.

Responsibilities

• Manage lifecycle of maintenance projects from design to handover.
• Ensure compliance with health & safety regulations.
• Lead planning processes and manage subcontractors.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder Management

Problem Solving

Planning

Commercial Awareness

Education

HNC/HND or Degree in Civil Engineering

Job description

Job Description

Freelance Site Agent - Outside IR35

Location: North West (predominantly site-based)

Sector: Water / Infrastructure

Project Values: £500k - £3M

Rate: £450 OIR35

We are seeking experienced Site Agents with a strong background in water and/or infrastructure project delivery to support the delivery of both core and non-core planned maintenance and capital works projects. This role is available on a contractor basis, outside of IR35, and reports directly to the Project Manager. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing either a single larger site or multiple smaller-scale projects.

The focus will be on site safety, programme, quality, commercial oversight, and subcontractor management. The Site Agent will also take the lead on-site, working closely with the client, supply chain, and stakeholders to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality project delivery.

Responsibilities

1. Full lifecycle oversight of maintenance projects and services from design through to commissioning and handover.
2. Ensure compliance with framework and site-specific management plans, health & safety (HASEMP), and safe systems of work.
3. Lead collaborative planning processes and own the short-term (look-ahead) programme for each site.
4. Manage change control, working with the commercial team and Project Manager to address variations and manage subcontractors.
5. Foster a strong health, safety, environment, and quality (SHEQ) culture, aiming for zero LTI and RIDDOR incidents.
6. Drive commercial efficiency, challenge scope, and ensure value-for-money solutions.
7. Engage stakeholders and client representatives to ensure alignment and mitigate potential disruptions.
8. Ensure projects meet governance and statutory requirements, with timely approvals and documentation.
9. Provide consistent and accurate performance reporting to the PM, with clear identification of risks and escalation of issues.

Site Delivery Focus

1. Lead the site team and champion framework and continuous improvement initiatives.
2. Identify resourcing needs and liaise with the Project Manager to ensure timely support.
3. Report monthly on SHEQ, time, and cost performance for portfolio reviews.
4. Identify efficiencies and implement improvements to delivery methods.
5. Quickly resolve issues within your control and escalate when beyond scope.
6. Ensure 100% compliance with all relevant safety and framework procedures.
7. Maintain positive working relationships across teams and with the client.
8. Ensure effective handover on project completion.
9. Manage interactions with third-party stakeholders and the public when necessary.
10. Contribute to monthly cost and programme forecasts.
11. Ensure all relevant statutory approvals and consents are obtained.

Candidate Requirements

Essential Experience:

• Proven track record in managing civil engineering projects in the water or infrastructure sector.
• Strong understanding of CDM regulations and acting as Principal Contractor.
• Excellent planning, delivery, and commercial awareness from a site perspective.
• Demonstrable leadership and team management experience.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Knowledge of site delivery, buildability, and problem-solving under pressure.
• Proven success in delivering projects to time, budget, and quality requirements.

Desirable Qualifications & Certifications:

• HNC/HND or Degree in Civil Engineering or related field (other relevant qualifications considered).
• CITB SMSTS, Water Hygiene (training can be provided).
• Temporary Works Coordinator (or willingness to be trained).
• Appointed Person for Lifting Operations (or willingness to be trained).
• First Aid at Work (or willingness to be trained).
• Confined Space Working (or willingness to be trained).

Engagement Details

• Contract: Outside IR35
• Duration: Ongoing, project-based
• Rate: Competitive, depending on experience
• Start Date: ASAP
• Location: North West - Site based with some regional travel as required