Senior Site Manager

Senior Site Manager - HMP Prison Construction Project
Location: [Insert project location]
Employer: Tier 1 Main Contractor
Employment type: Permanent or Freelance
Salary: £65,000-£75,000 per annum + package (permanent)
Freelance rate: £400-£500 per day, depending on experience and project requirements
The Opportunity
We are working in partnership with a leading Tier 1 construction contractor seeking an experienced Senior Site Manager to oversee the delivery of a major construction project within the HMP prison estate.
This is an excellent opportunity for a hands-on construction professional with a strong background in managing complex building projects, including new-build construction, refurbishment and extension works.
The successful candidate will have a comprehensive understanding of all major construction trades and the ability to coordinate multiple subcontractors, manage site teams and ensure works are delivered safely, efficiently and to the highest standards.
We are looking for a confident and proactive leader who can take ownership of site operations, maintain programme progress and ensure all construction activities meet the required quality, safety and compliance standards.
Key Responsibilities

Oversee day-to-day site operations, ensuring works are delivered safely, on programme and to the required quality standards.

Manage and coordinate subcontractors, trade contractors, suppliers and site personnel across all construction packages.

Demonstrate a strong understanding of the full construction process, including groundworks, structural works, roofing, internal trades, building services and finishing works.

Oversee new-build, refurbishment and extension works, ensuring activities are properly coordinated and sequenced.

Monitor progress against the construction programme, identifying potential delays and implementing corrective measures.

Ensure all site activities comply with health and safety legislation, site procedures, RAMS and relevant construction regulations.

Carry out regular site inspections, quality checks and progress reviews to ensure works meet project specifications.

Chair or attend site coordination meetings and liaise with the Project Manager, client representatives, consultants and subcontractors.

Manage site logistics, deliveries, materials, labour allocation and short-term planning.

Maintain accurate site records, daily reports, progress updates and relevant project documentation.

Identify and resolve site issues promptly, escalating significant risks or delays where required.

Ensure the project is delivered in accordance with the contractor's quality, environmental and health and safety requirements.

Essential Requirements

Proven experience working as a Senior Site Manager or in a comparable senior site management position.

A strong background in construction, with experience across new-build, refurbishment and extension projects.

Comprehensive knowledge of construction methods, building trades, sequencing and subcontractor coordination.

Experience working for a main contractor, ideally within a Tier 1 or Tier 2 construction environment.

Strong leadership skills and the ability to manage multiple subcontractors and site teams effectively.

Good understanding of construction programmes, quality assurance, site safety and project documentation.

Excellent communication, organisational and problem-solving skills.

A recognised construction management qualification or equivalent relevant experience.

Valid SMSTS and CSCS qualifications/cards, with First Aid at Work desirable, subject to the contractor's requirements.

Desirable Experience

Previous experience working on prison, secure estate, custodial, Ministry of Justice or other secure public-sector projects.

Experience working on live or operational sites where access, security and working procedures are strictly controlled.

Experience managing complex projects with multiple construction packages running concurrently.

Knowledge of permit-to-work procedures, restricted access arrangements and security-sensitive site logistics.

What We Are Looking For
We are looking for a hands-on Senior Site Manager who understands how buildings are constructed from the ground up and can confidently manage all trades and subcontractors on site.
You will be organised, commercially aware, proactive and capable of maintaining high standards while driving the project forward.