Freelance Project Manager – Civil Engineering (South West Water AMP8 Framework)

Location: North Devon
Sector: Water & Infrastructure (Dirty Water Assets)
Rate: £425 – £485 per shift (CIS)
Contract: Freelance | Ongoing (Long-Term Framework)
Company: Tier 1 Civil Engineering Contractor

The Opportunity

A leading Tier 1 civil engineering contractor is seeking an experienced Project Manager to join their team on the South West Water AMP8 framework, delivering upgrades and refurbishment works to wastewater and dirty water assets across Devon and the wider South West region.

This is an excellent long-term freelance opportunity for a driven and commercially aware Project Manager with a strong background in delivering civil engineering schemes within live operational environments.

You’ll play a key role in leading multiple projects from pre-construction through to delivery and handover, ensuring works are completed safely, efficiently, and to the highest standards. Think less “spreadsheet spectator” and more “organised chaos coordinator with a radio permanently attached to your hand.”

Key Responsibilities

• Take overall responsibility for the successful delivery of multiple civil engineering and wastewater schemes.
• Lead site teams including Site Agents, Engineers, subcontractors, and framework partners.
• Ensure projects are delivered safely, on programme, within budget, and in line with client expectations.
• Manage project planning, procurement, commercial performance, and resource allocation.
• Maintain strong relationships with South West Water and key stakeholders.
• Oversee programme management, reporting, risk management, and contractual compliance.
• Coordinate closely with commercial, design, planning, and MEICA teams.
• Drive high standards of health & safety, environmental compliance, and quality assurance.
• Chair progress meetings and provide regular updates to senior management and the client team.

Requirements

• Proven experience as a Project Manager within the water, wastewater, or heavy civil engineering sectors.
• Strong understanding of wastewater treatment works, pumping stations, pipelines, and associated infrastructure.
• Previous AMP framework experience highly advantageous.
• Strong leadership and stakeholder management skills.
• Good commercial awareness with experience managing project budgets and NEC contracts.
• Excellent understanding of construction methodologies, programme management, and HSEQ standards.
• SMSTS, CSCS, and First Aid qualifications essential.
• HNC/HND or Degree in Civil Engineering or equivalent industry experience.

What’s on Offer

• £425 – £485 per shift (CIS) depending on experience.
• Long-term freelance opportunity on a secured AMP8 framework.
• Opportunity to work with a respected Tier 1 contractor with a strong regional presence.
• Strong pipeline of work across Devon and the South West.
• Supportive delivery team and established framework environment.
• Immediate start available.

If you would like more information, or to apply for this vacancy, please contact Ben Knight on (phone number removed). The reference for this vacancy is (phone number removed). 

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Abatec Ltd. is working as an employment business on behalf of a client.