Mechanical Contracts Manager

Mechanical Contracts Manager – Data Centres & Defence (Freelance) Cheltenham | £350–£450 per day CIS or LTD | Long-term freelance (temp-to-perm opportunity) If you’re a mechanical contracts or projects manager looking to step into a leadership role on cutting-edge data centre and secure MOD projects, this long-term freelance position could be a great fit. You’ll be based in Cheltenham, overseeing mechanical packages on highly technical, secure-site projects, with the option for the role to convert to permanent for the right person. The Role You’ll be responsible for managing the full lifecycle of mechanical packages across major data centre and defence projects, including: * Full financial and delivery responsibility for the mechanical works * Planning and overseeing delivery of chilled water systems, pipework, AHUs and associated HVAC infrastructure * Managing site delivery teams, subcontractors, plant and material logistics * Forecasting and reporting on cost, margin, and risk * Coordinating design, compliance, H&S and project documentation * Supporting both pre-construction and on-site phases through to commissioning and handover * Working closely with commercial, technical and client teams * Acting as the face of the contractor on site, maintaining and strengthening client relationships Projects You’ll Be Involved With * Live data centre expansion * Secure MOD facilities projects What We’re Looking For We’re open to candidates from critical infrastructure sectors – you don’t need direct data centre experience, but you must be used to complex technical environments. Ideally, you’ll bring: * HNC/HND/Degree in Mechanical Engineering or Building Services * Proven track record delivering mechanical contracts (ideally £5m+ value) * Strong knowledge of chilled water, AHUs, pipework, BMS and associated HVAC systems * Experience in live/critical environments (e.g. hospitals, pharma, MOD, data centres) * SMSTS, First Aid, Black CSCS Card * Full UK Driving Licence * Able to obtain SC/DV security clearance (or already cleared) If you’re an experienced Mechanical Contracts or Projects Manager interested in a long-term freelance role in Cheltenham with genuine potential to go temp-to-perm, please get in touch