Freelance MEP Project Manager (Mechanical)

Warden Tyne Solutions are currently recruiting for an experienced Freelance MEP Project Manager (Mechanical) for a major hyperscale data centre development in the North East.
The project involves complex internal and external mechanical infrastructure, including large-scale cooling systems, chillers, buffer vessels, closed-loop chilled water distribution, associated pipework, potable water and drainage services.
Roles & Responsibilities:
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Mechanical Project Delivery: Manage the mechanical package, ensuring works are delivered safely, on programme and to the required quality standards.
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Installation Management: Oversee day-to-day mechanical installation activities, coordinating subcontractors, engineers and site teams to maintain progress.
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Cooling Infrastructure: Coordinate the installation of cooling plant, chillers, buffer vessels, closed-loop chilled water systems, pumps, valves and associated mechanical services.
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Pipework & Distribution: Manage the coordination, routing and installation sequencing of chilled water pipework and associated distribution systems.
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Water Services: Coordinate the installation of potable water, drainage and associated services.
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Design Coordination: Review drawings, specifications and technical submissions, raising and resolving RFIs and design queries ahead of installation.
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MEP Coordination: Liaise closely with electrical, CSA, BIM, commissioning and other package leads to coordinate complex service interfaces and resolve potential clashes.
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Programme & Forward Planning: Maintain detailed lookahead programmes, coordinate installation sequencing and ensure labour, materials and construction information are available when required.
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Internal & External Works: Coordinate mechanical installations across building interiors and external plant areas, ensuring activities align with the wider construction programme.
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Attention to Detail: Check pipework routes, plant positioning, supports, access requirements, clearances and service interfaces to minimise clashes, rework and delays.
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Subcontractor Management: Monitor subcontractor performance, labour levels, productivity and workmanship, addressing issues that may affect programme or quality.
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Quality Assurance: Ensure inspections, pressure testing, quality records and remedial works are completed in accordance with approved drawings and project specifications.
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Procurement: Monitor material requirements, plant deliveries and long-lead equipment, escalating potential shortages or delays.
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Commissioning & Handover: Coordinate installation completion, pressure testing, flushing, cleaning, commissioning readiness and handover documentation, as applicable.
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Progress Reporting: Maintain accurate progress updates, lookahead schedules, action trackers and records of outstanding technical and installation issues.
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Health & Safety: Ensure mechanical works are planned and undertaken safely in accordance with project procedures and relevant regulations.
The Person:
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Proven experience as a Mechanical Project Manager within an Principal Contractor, MEP contractor, mechanical contractor or building services environment.
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Strong data centre construction experience is essential, ideally on hyperscale or mission-critical projects.
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Strong technical knowledge of cooling systems, chillers, buffer vessels, chilled water distribution, pipework and associated mechanical services.
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Experience managing mechanical subcontractors and coordinating complex installation packages.
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Meticulous attention to detail, particularly when coordinating services with minimal installation tolerances.
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Strong forward-planning skills, with experience managing lookahead programmes and installation sequences.
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Excellent communication skills and the ability to liaise effectively with other package leads and multidisciplinary teams.
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Ability to identify potential clashes, resolve technical issues and proactively prevent delays and rework.
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Good understanding of quality assurance, commissioning and project handover requirements.
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Strong organisational, communication and problem-solving skills.
Terms:
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Competitive day rate (negotiable)
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Salaried role available
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Outside IR35 (subject to assessment) & CIS available
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7-day payment terms
Only candidates based in UK and eligible to work in UK are allowed