Job Description:

Senior Site Manager (Contract) – Utility Scale Solar Farm- Outside IR35

Location: West Midlands, UK

Contract Type: Fixed-Term Contract / Freelance Contract

Sector: Renewable Energy / Utility-Scale Solar PV

Reporting To: Project Manager / Construction Manager

Duration: 12 months

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced Senior Site Manager to lead the on-site delivery of a large-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) farm project in the West Midlands on behalf of a leading EPC contractor. The successful candidate will take full responsibility for the safe, efficient, and high-quality execution of all site activities, ensuring the project is delivered on schedule, within budget, and in compliance with contractual, regulatory, and HSE requirements.

The Senior Site Manager will coordinate subcontractors, manage daily construction operations, oversee site logistics, and act as the primary site representative for the EPC contractor throughout the construction phase.

Key Responsibilities:

Site Leadership & Management

• Manage all day-to-day site operations associated with the construction and installation of a utility-scale solar farm.
• Lead and supervise site management teams, supervisors, subcontractors, and specialist contractors.
• Ensure construction activities are delivered in accordance with project programmes, specifications, drawings, and quality standards.
• Coordinate multiple work fronts including civil, mechanical, electrical, and commissioning activities.
• Chair daily coordination meetings, toolbox talks, and progress reviews.

Health, Safety, Environment & Quality

• Promote and maintain a strong safety culture across the project.
• Ensure compliance with all UK HSE legislation, company procedures, and project-specific requirements.
• Review and approve RAMS (Risk Assessments and Method Statements).
• Conduct regular site inspections, audits, and safety observations.
• Investigate incidents, near misses, and non-conformances, implementing corrective actions where required.
• Ensure environmental controls and permit conditions are adhered to throughout construction.

Programme & Delivery Management

• Monitor project progress against programme milestones and identify risks to delivery.
• Develop and implement recovery plans where required.
• Coordinate labour, plant, materials, and equipment to optimise productivity.
• Work closely with project planning teams to ensure activities remain on schedule.
• Provide regular progress reports to project stakeholders and senior management.

Commercial & Contract Administration

• Assist with subcontractor management and performance monitoring.
• Verify completed works and support valuation processes.
• Identify and report variations, delays, and potential commercial impacts.
• Ensure accurate site records are maintained, including diaries, inspections, and progress reports.

Stakeholder Management

• Act as the primary site contact for the client, landowners, local authorities, utility providers, and other stakeholders.
• Maintain positive relationships with project partners and the local community.
• Support project meetings and provide technical and operational input where required.

Quality Assurance

• Ensure all installations are completed in accordance with design specifications and relevant industry standards.
• Oversee inspection and test plans (ITPs) and quality control procedures.
• Manage snagging, defect resolution, and handover activities.
• Support commissioning and energisation phases of the project.

Essential Requirements

• Proven experience as a Senior Site Manager, Site Manager, or Construction Manager on utility-scale solar PV, renewable energy, power generation, or major infrastructure projects.
• Strong understanding of EPC project delivery methodologies.
• Demonstrable experience managing multidisciplinary construction teams and subcontractors.
• Excellent knowledge of UK construction health and safety legislation.
• Experience coordinating civil, electrical, and mechanical installation activities.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, specifications, and construction programmes.
• Strong leadership, communication, and organisational skills.
• Full UK driving licence.

Qualifications & Certifications

• SMSTS (Site Management Safety Training Scheme).
• CSCS Black Manager Card.
• First Aid at Work.
• Temporary Works Coordinator (desirable).
• NEBOSH Construction Certificate (desirable).
• HNC/HND or Degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related discipline (desirable).

Desirable Experience

• Utility-scale solar PV projects exceeding 20MW.
• HV infrastructure, substations, and grid connection works.
• Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS).
• National Grid or DNO interface management.
• Commissioning and project handover activities.

Key Competencies

• Leadership and team management.
• Planning and programme control.
• Health, Safety, Environment and Quality management.
• Problem-solving and decision-making.
• Stakeholder engagement.
• Commercial awareness.
• Attention to detail and quality focus.

What We Offer

• Competitive contract day rate.
• Opportunity to work on a flagship renewable energy infrastructure project.
• Long-term contract potential based on project pipeline.
• Dynamic and collaborative project environment.
• Opportunity to contribute to the UK's renewable energy transition.