Summer Placement Construction Management

Tilbury Douglas; Exeter; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK construction firm is offering a Graduate Construction Manager position in Exeter. This summer placement provides crucial experience in managing construction sites and executing projects in various sectors. We seek candidates with a relevant degree, strong organisational skills, and teamwork abilities. This role offers a competitive salary and opportunities for mentoring and development.

Benefits

Competitive salary

20 days annual leave plus bank holidays

Volunteering opportunities

Qualifications

• A degree (or expected in 2027) in a relevant discipline.
• A full UK driving licence (or working towards it).
• Strong organisational and problem-solving skills.
• Good communication and teamwork abilities.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the day-to-day management of site operations.
• Support the coordination of subcontractors and site teams.
• Contribute to planning meetings and progress reviews.
• Monitor quality standards and health & safety compliance.

Skills

Strong organisational skills

Problem-solving skills

Good communication

Teamwork abilities

Attention to detail

Education

Degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or Project Management

Job description

Overview

Start your career where it matters most – building a better future together

Tilbury Douglas is a leading UK building, infrastructure, engineering and fit-out company. We deliver vital projects across a range of sectors including health, education, water, defence, justice and civic and civil estate. Our schemes improve lives and strengthen communities. As a Graduate Construction Manager - Summer Placement, you’ll play a key role in delivering these projects safely, efficiently, and to the highest standards of quality and sustainability.

Location

This role will be based in the South West region, where you’ll work within our Regional Building and South West team. Flexibility to travel across project sites in the region will be required as part of your development.

Responsibilities

As a Graduate Construction Manager – Year Out Placement, you’ll gain experience on live construction sites, learning how to plan, manage and deliver building projects from start to finish. With the support of experienced site managers and project leaders, you’ll:

• Assist in the day-to-day management of site operations, ensuring works are completed safely and on programme
• Support the coordination of subcontractors, suppliers and site teams
• Contribute to planning meetings and progress reviews with project managers and clients
• Monitor quality standards, health & safety compliance and environmental performance
• Support managing site logistics, temporary works, and sequencing of activities
• Develop an understanding of commercial processes and cost control
• Produce and maintain accurate site records and reports
• Start building relationships with clients, consultants, and subcontractors to support effective project delivery

Why this role?

This isn’t just about construction – it’s about leadership. You’ll be supported to develop your technical knowledge, people management and organisational skills, with mentoring to prepare you for site management roles.

What we’re looking for

We want to hear from people who are passionate about building and construction. You’ll bring:

• A degree (or expected in 2027) in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Project Management or a related discipline (2:1 or above)
• A full UK driving licence (or working towards by the time you start)
• Strong organisational and problem-solving skills, with a proactive approach to challenges
• Good communication and teamwork abilities
• A practical mindset with attention to detail and quality
• Previous site or construction-related experience (desirable but not essential)

What we offer

• Mentoring and support from experienced engineers and supervisors to advance you in your final year of study
• Competitive salary
• 20 days annual leave plus bank holidays (pro rata)
• Two days volunteering opportunities per year
• Opportunities to work on diverse and meaningful projects across the UK
• An inclusive culture where your ideas and contributions make a real difference

Recruitment Timeline

1. Stage 1 – Online Applications: You can apply up until 28 November 2025. We recommend getting your application in early!
2. Stage 2 – Shortlisting: We’ll review all applications during December 2025 and get in touch to invite successful candidates to interview.
3. Stage 3 – Interviews: Interviews will take place during the week commencing 5 January 2026. We’ll let you know everything you need to prepare in advance.
4. Stage 4 – Offers: Offers will be made in February 2026. We’ll keep you updated throughout the process so you know what to expect.

Why Tilbury Douglas?

We’re more than just a construction company; we’re a community of people working together to deliver projects that matter. We value diversity, innovation and wellbeing and we’re committed to helping you reach your full potential.

Our values form a core part of our company and our mission to build a better future together. They underpin everything we do and set out what is expected from all of us:

• Everyone has a voice
• Do the right thing
• Take pride in what you do
• Bring better to life

Join us and take your first step towards an exciting career in construction management.