Works Manager

Role Overview

The Works Manager is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day delivery of highways construction activities on site, ensuring works are completed safely, on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. The role involves coordinating site teams, subcontractors, and suppliers while maintaining compliance with all relevant regulations and project specifications.

Key Responsibilities

Project Delivery

Manage and supervise all on-site highways works including earthworks, drainage, pavement, structures (as applicable), and ancillary works.
Ensure works are delivered in accordance with the project programme and agreed milestones.
Coordinate labour, plant, materials, and subcontractors to achieve efficient delivery.
Monitor progress and provide regular updates to senior management.

Health, Safety & Environment (HSE)

Promote and enforce a strong safety culture across the site.
Ensure all works comply with HSE legislation, company procedures, and CDM Regulations.
Conduct site inspections, toolbox talks, and safety briefings.
Ensure risk assessments and method statements (RAMS) are in place and adhered to.
Manage environmental controls (e.g. waste, noise, dust, water management).

Quality Assurance

Ensure all works are carried out in compliance with specifications, drawings, and quality standards.
Coordinate inspections, testing, and sign-offs with relevant stakeholders.
Identify and resolve defects or non-conformances promptly.
Maintain accurate quality records and documentation.

Team & Subcontractor Management

Lead, motivate, and supervise site engineers, supervisors, and operatives.
Manage subcontractors to ensure performance, safety, and quality compliance.
Conduct performance reviews and daily briefings.
Resolve on-site issues and conflicts effectively.

Planning & Coordination

Work closely with the Planning Team to update and refine programmes.
Support short-term and lookahead planning activities.
Ensure timely procurement and delivery of materials and equipment.
Liaise with design teams regarding changes or technical queries.

Commercial Awareness

Monitor resource usage and productivity to control costs.
Assist in identifying and managing variations, risks, and opportunities.
Support commercial teams with forecasting and reporting.

Stakeholder Management

Liaise with clients, local authorities, utilities, and third parties.
Attend site meetings and provide professional representation of the company.
Ensure minimal disruption to the public and stakeholders during works.

Key Skills & Competencies

Strong leadership and team management skills
Excellent communication and organisational abilities
Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines
Problem-solving and decision-making capability
Good understanding of highways construction processes
Strong knowledge of health & safety legislation

Qualifications & Experience

Essential:

Proven experience as a Works Manager, Site Manager, or similar role within highways or civil engineering projects
Extensive knowledge of highways construction (e.g. drainage, pavements, earthworks)
SMSTS (Site Management Safety Training Scheme)
CSCS Card (Manager level)
First Aid at Work certification

Desirable:

Degree / HNC / HND in Civil Engineering or related discipline
Temporary Works Coordinator qualification
Experience on major infrastructure or highways frameworks
Knowledge of NEC contracts
Only candidates based in UK and eligible to work in UK are allowed