Project Manager - Highways
Freelance | Areas 6 & 8 | £500-£550 per day
Overview
We are seeking an experienced Project Manager to lead the successful delivery of highways and civil engineering projects across Areas 6 & 8.
This is a freelance opportunity suited to someone who can take full ownership of project performance, including programme, commercial management, risk, and stakeholder engagement. You will play a key role in ensuring projects are delivered safely, on time, within budget, and in line with contractual requirements.
Key Responsibilities
Project Delivery & Leadership
Take full accountability for the end-to-end delivery of multiple highways schemes
Lead and coordinate multidisciplinary teams including Site Managers, Engineers, and subcontractors
Ensure alignment between site operations, programme milestones, and commercial objectives
Drive delivery against key performance indicators and contractual commitments
Programme Management
Develop, manage, and maintain detailed project programmes using P6 or MS Project
Monitor progress against milestones and implement corrective actions where required
Identify delays and drive recovery plans to maintain project timelines
Provide accurate progress reporting to internal and external stakeholders
Commercial & Contract Management
Manage projects under NEC contracts, ensuring compliance and effective administration
Lead on compensation events, variations, and change control processes
Monitor project costs, budgets, and forecasts
Work closely with commercial teams to optimise financial performance
Risk & Governance
Identify, assess, and manage project risks and opportunities
Ensure effective governance, reporting, and audit readiness
Maintain accurate project documentation and reporting structures
Health, Safety & Compliance
Lead the implementation of health, safety, and environmental standards
Ensure compliance with CDM regulations and client requirements
Promote a strong safety culture across all project teams
Quality Management
Ensure all works meet required technical specifications and quality standards
Oversee inspection, testing, and handover processes
Drive continuous improvement and resolution of defects
Stakeholder Management
Act as the primary point of contact for clients, National Highways, and local authorities
Build and maintain strong client and stakeholder relationships
Lead project meetings and provide clear performance updates
Manage expectations and minimise disruption to stakeholders and the public
Requirements
Essential
Proven experience as a Project Manager within highways or civil engineering
Strong working knowledge of NEC contracts
Experience working on National Highways frameworks
Strong programme management skills (P6 or MS Project)
Experience managing project budgets, forecasting, and reporting
Excellent stakeholder and client management skills
SMSTS
CSCS Card (Manager level)
First Aid at Work
Full UK driving licence
Desirable
HNC / HND / Degree in Civil Engineering or related discipline
Experience delivering major infrastructure or highways projects
Temporary Works Coordinator certification
Experience across full project lifecycle (pre-construction to completion)
