Kenton Black Ltd

We are currently seeking an experienced Freelance General Foreman to support ongoing waste water treatment upgrade projects within the civil engineering sector. This is an excellent opportunity to join a well-established contractor delivering complex infrastructure improvements involving reinforced concrete works, mechanical installations, and associated utilities.

?? Role Overview

As General Foreman, you will take responsibility for the day-to-day site operations, ensuring works are delivered safely, on time, and to the highest quality standards. You will oversee multiple work fronts, coordinating site teams and subcontractors across a range of activities including:

- Reinforced Concrete (RC) structures – tanks, bases, walls, slabs, and retaining structures

- Pipework installations – large diameter pipework, process pipework, and associated fittings

- Ducting systems – service ducting, cable ducts, and containment

- Drainage works – foul and surface water drainage networks

- Upgrades and modifications within live waste water treatment plants

?? Key Responsibilities

- Supervise and coordinate site operatives, subcontractors, and plant

- Ensure works are carried out in accordance with drawings, specifications, and RAMS

- Drive high standards of health, safety, environmental, and quality compliance

- Manage short-term programming and daily site planning

- Liaise with Site Manager, engineers, and client representatives

- Maintain accurate site records and reporting

- Support inspection and test plans (ITPs) and quality assurance procedures

? Requirements

- Proven experience as a General Foreman within civil engineering

- Strong background in RC structures, pipework, drainage, and heavy civils

- Previous involvement in waste water treatment works or similar utilities infrastructure

- Ability to manage works in live operational environments

- SSSTS or SMSTS (preferred)

- CSCS Card

- First Aid at Work

- Strong leadership and communication skills

General Foreman

Freelance Project Manager – Substation Extensions (Inside IR35)

We are seeking an experienced Freelance Project Manager to support the delivery of multiple substation extension projects within a regulated utilities environment. This is an Inside IR35 contract role, suited to a strong delivery-focused professional with a background in electrical infrastructure and civils.

The Role

You will take full responsibility for managing substation extension works from initiation through to commissioning and handover. The projects involve significant civils packages, coordination of multi-disciplinary teams, and strict adherence to safety and regulatory standards.

Key Responsibilities

- Lead the end-to-end delivery of substation extension projects (11kV–132kV or above).

- Manage civils works including foundations, ducting, drainage, earthworks, and structural bases for plant and equipment.

- Coordinate electrical and mechanical installation activities in live substation environments.

- Oversee programme management, cost control, and risk mitigation.

- Ensure compliance with CDM regulations, HSE standards, and client governance processes.

- Manage subcontractors and suppliers to ensure quality, safety, and timely delivery.

- Provide clear reporting to senior stakeholders and client representatives.

- Drive commissioning readiness and handover documentation.

Required Experience

- Proven track record delivering substation extension or upgrade projects within the power or utilities sector.

- Strong background managing civils packages alongside M&E installation.

- Experience working in live substation environments.

- Excellent knowledge of NEC contracts (or similar) and commercial management.

- Demonstrable experience operating in Inside IR35 contract roles.

- Strong stakeholder management and communication skills.

Qualifications

- Degree or equivalent in Engineering, Construction Management, or related field (preferred).

- SMSTS / IOSH / NEBOSH (or equivalent).

- Relevant project management qualification (APM, PRINCE2, PMP desirable).

Contract Details

- Freelance / Contract position

- Inside IR35

- Competitive day rate

- Initial 6–12 months with potential extension

Project Manager

We are recruiting for an experienced Freelance Site Engineer to join a major Water Treatment Works upgrade scheme. This is a significant heavy civils project involving structural concrete works, deep excavations, and complex infrastructure upgrades within a live operational environment.

The scheme includes reinforced concrete structures, drainage, pipework, and associated infrastructure to modernise and expand water treatment capacity.

Role Overview

As Site Engineer, you will play a key role in the technical delivery of the project, ensuring works are set out accurately and constructed in accordance with drawings, specifications, and quality standards. You will work closely with the Site Manager, Subcontractors, and Design Team to deliver works safely and efficiently.

Key Responsibilities

- Setting out for heavy civils and reinforced concrete (RC) structures

- Managing QA documentation and ITPs

- Checking drawings and raising technical queries (RFIs)

- Overseeing subcontractor works and ensuring compliance with design specifications

- Maintaining accurate site records and as-built information

- Ensuring works are delivered safely in accordance with project RAMS

- Liaising with surveyors and design teams

Essential Experience

- Proven experience as a Site Engineer on major water or wastewater treatment projects

- Strong background in heavy civils

- Extensive experience in reinforced concrete (RC) structures

- Experience working in live water treatment environments (desirable)

- Proficient with setting out equipment (Total Station / GPS)

- Strong understanding of QA processes and documentation

- CSCS card (essential)

- SMSTS or SSSTS (desirable)

Site Engineer

Kenton Black are recruiting for a permanent Senior Project Engineer position based in the North East of Scotland.

Our client, a well-established civil engineering contractor, is seeking an experienced and driven Senior Project Engineer to support the successful delivery of the civils package on a major transmission infrastructure development. The role forms part of a substantial subcontract package feeding into a wider national programme of strategic transmission works, with the initial project phase expected to run for approximately 1.5 years and a strong pipeline of further works forecasted for at least 8 years and likely beyond.

This is an excellent opportunity to take a leading technical role on one of Scotland’s most significant infrastructure schemes, contributing to the development of a major transmission hub and supporting the broader upgrade programme across the region.

Key Responsibilities:

- Oversee engineering delivery across all civils elements of the project, ensuring work is completed to the required technical standards and programme milestones
- Provide technical guidance and support to site teams, supervisors, and subcontractors
- Review drawings, specifications, and method statements to ensure accuracy and compliance
- Manage quality assurance processes, including inspections, testing, and documentation control
- Lead on problem-solving and technical issue resolution, escalating where necessary
- Monitor progress and support planning activities to help drive efficient and coordinated delivery
- Ensure adherence to all health, safety, and environmental requirements across site operations
- Contribute to stakeholder engagement, including internal reporting and liaison with project partners
- Maintain accurate engineering records and assist with project administration when required


What You Bring:

- Strong background as a Site Engineer or Project Engineer within civil engineering, ideally on large-scale infrastructure or utilities projects
- Proven ability to take ownership of technical delivery, with experience supporting multiple work fronts
- Excellent communication skills for engaging with site teams, subcontractors, and project stakeholders
- Strong organisational abilities, with a proactive and solutions-focused mindset
- Proficiency in relevant IT systems and software used for engineering, reporting, and QA processes
- CSCS certification (essential)
- SMSTS, Temporary Works, or other relevant qualifications (advantageous)

Why This Role?

This position offers the chance to play a key part in delivering a major national infrastructure scheme, providing long-term stability with a programme of works forecasted to extend for many years. The role offers a competitive salary of £65,000–£85,000 per annum, dependent on experience, along with the opportunity to develop your career within a high-performing project environment.

If you’re a motivated Senior Project Engineer seeking a progressive opportunity on a flagship engineering project, we’d be delighted to hear from you.

Senior Project Engineer

Quantity Surveyor
Start: ASAP
Sheffield (Hybrid Working Available)
£50,000 – £60,000 per annum + Car Allowance + Package (DOE)
Full-Time | Permanent

I am currently recruiting for a permanent Quantity Surveyor to join the Sheffield office of a well-established and highly regarded civil engineering contractor delivering infrastructure and groundworks projects across the UK.

This is an excellent opportunity for a commercially astute Quantity Surveyor looking to join a growing regional team with strong project pipelines and long-term career prospects.

THE ROLE
Based in the Sheffield office (with flexibility for hybrid working – minimum 3 days in the office), you will play a key role in the commercial management of multiple projects, ensuring financial performance and contractual compliance from pre-construction through to final account.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
•	Managing project costs and ensuring budgets are maintained
•	Preparing and reviewing valuations, variations and final accounts
•	Subcontractor procurement, negotiation and management
•	Producing cost reports and forecasts
•	Ensuring contractual compliance and risk management
•	Working closely with operational teams to drive commercial performance

REQUIREMENTS:
•	Previous experience as a Quantity Surveyor within civil engineering or groundworks
•	Strong knowledge of contracts and commercial processes
•	Excellent negotiation and communication skills
•	Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines
•	Degree qualified (or equivalent) in Quantity Surveying or related discipline preferred

What’s on Offer:
•	Competitive salary (£50,000 – £60,000 DOE)
•	Car allowance
•	Comprehensive benefits package
•	Hybrid working flexibility
•	Strong pipeline of secured work
•	Clear progression opportunities within a reputable contractor

If you are a driven Quantity Surveyor looking for a long-term career move with a forward-thinking contractor, I would be keen to speak with you.

Apply now with an up to date CV or contact Dan Standish at Kenton Black (Leeds) for more information. 


Quantity Surveyor 

Kenton Black are recruiting for a permanent Senior Quantity Surveyor vacancy based in East of Scotland.

Our client, a well-established and highly respected main contractor, is seeking an experienced and commercially focused Senior Quantity Surveyor to join their expanding team. This is a key position supporting the successful delivery of a diverse portfolio of building projects across the region, offering the opportunity to work within a forward-thinking construction environment where quality, collaboration and professional development are central.

Key Responsibilities:

- Manage all commercial aspects of projects from initial tender through to final account
- Prepare, negotiate and agree subcontract and supplier packages
- Monitor project costs, valuations, forecasts and cashflow to ensure strong financial performance
- Lead on the preparation of applications for payment and support monthly commercial reporting
- Identify, value and agree variations and change control items
- Work closely with project managers, site teams, designers and clients to support smooth project delivery
- Ensure full compliance with contract conditions, procurement policies and financial controls
- Undertake regular site visits and meetings, providing commercial input and strategic advice
- Support junior members of the commercial team and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives

What You Bring:

- Degree or HNC/HND in Quantity Surveying or a related construction discipline
- Proven experience in a Quantity Surveying role, ideally at senior level within the building sector
- Strong understanding of commercial management, cost control, procurement and contract administration
- Ability to interpret drawings, specifications and contract documentation with a high level of accuracy
- Excellent communication and negotiation skills with a collaborative approach to problem-solving
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines
- Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel to sites across Edinburgh and the surrounding region

Why This Role?

This is an excellent opportunity to join a reputable construction business that offers long-term career progression, a collaborative working culture and exposure to high-profile projects across the region. The position offers a competitive salary of £65,000 – £70,000 per annum, plus car allowance, bonus and a comprehensive benefits package. If you are an experienced Senior Quantity Surveyor looking to take the next step in your career within a supportive and well-structured commercial team, we would be delighted to hear from you.

Senior Quantity Surveyor

Kenton Black are recruiting for a permanent full-time Civils Contracts Manager position in South Aberdeenshire.

A well-established civil engineering contractor with a strong presence across the North East is seeking an experienced Civils Contracts Manager to oversee a portfolio of housing-related infrastructure projects. Operating across South Aberdeenshire, Angus, and Dundee, the company delivers high-quality civils works including roads, drainage, utilities, and groundworks for leading residential developers.

This opportunity is ideal for a commercially aware, delivery-focused professional looking to take ownership of multiple live contracts while contributing to the continued growth and reputation of a respected regional business.

Key Responsibilities:

- Lead and manage the delivery of multiple housing civils projects across the region
- Oversee project planning, resourcing, sequencing, and programme management
- Ensure works are delivered safely, efficiently, and in line with client specifications
- Manage site teams, subcontractors, and direct labour to achieve project milestones
- Monitor commercial performance, variations, and cost control in collaboration with the commercial team
- Maintain strong relationships with clients, local authorities, utility providers, and design partners
- Conduct regular site visits, progress reviews, and quality inspections
- Ensure compliance with company procedures, health & safety legislation, and industry standards

What You Bring:

- Proven experience in a Contracts Manager or Senior Site/Project Management role within civil engineering
- Strong background in housing infrastructure works — roads, drainage, services, and general groundworks
- Excellent planning, leadership, and communication skills
- A proactive approach with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
- Strong understanding of commercial principles, procurement, and contractual obligations
- Competent IT skills, including experience with project management and reporting tools
- Full UK driving licence (essential)

Why This Role?

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a reputable civil engineering contractor known for its consistent delivery, long-standing client relationships, and supportive leadership team. You’ll have the autonomy to run your projects while being backed by experienced operational, commercial, and technical colleagues. With a competitive salary and package, this role offers long-term stability and the chance to play a key part in delivering high-profile housing developments across the region.

If you’re driven, organised, and ready to take the next step in your civil engineering management career, we’d love to hear from you.

Civils Contracts Manager

Kenton Black are recruiting for a permanent Trainee / Assistant Quantity Surveyor based in West Aberdeenshire.

Our client, a respected housing developer with a strong reputation across the region, is seeking an ambitious and detail-driven individual to join their commercial team. This position offers an excellent opportunity for someone early in their surveying career to gain hands-on experience, progress professionally, and contribute to the commercial success of a diverse portfolio of projects. With a competitive salary of £28,000–£33,000 per annum, this is a strong long-term career opportunity with genuine development prospects.

Key Responsibilities:

- Assist in the preparation, management, and checking of project costings and budgets
- Support procurement activities, including obtaining quotations and preparing tender comparisons
- Help measure and value works, including on-site assessments
- Prepare and maintain accurate records, variations, and commercial documentation
- Work closely with project managers, site teams, and subcontractors to support commercial delivery
- Contribute to monthly reporting and forecasting
- Ensure compliance with company procedures, quality standards, and contractual requirements


What You Bring:

- A relevant qualification in Quantity Surveying (or working towards one), or previous experience in a similar role
- Strong numerical, analytical, and organisational skills
- A proactive approach with a willingness to learn and develop
- Effective communication skills and confidence working with multiple stakeholders
- Good IT skills, including MS Office (Excel in particular)
- Full UK driving licence (preferred)


Why This Role?

This is a fantastic opportunity to build your career with a well-regarded contractor known for its supportive culture, hands-on training, and commitment to developing talent. You’ll be exposed to a wide range of projects across Aberdeenshire, gaining valuable practical experience while being guided by an experienced commercial team.

If you’re motivated, eager to progress, and ready to take the next step in your quantity surveying career, we’d love to hear from you.

Trainee / Assistant Quantity Surveyor 

Project Manager - Formwork Background
Salary:	Circa £80k p.a Plus package (to suit experience)
Location: 	Northamptonshire + 1.5hours 

A very well established Northamptonshire based Civil Engineering, Groundworks and Formwork business requires a Formwork experience Project Manager / Site Manager to step up when ready into the post of Contracts Manager.  Taking on the Formwork projects throughout their thriving Formwork division.
Projects Information:

•	Valued between £50k and £2.5million (formwork only)
•	Typically, around the £1.5million level
•	Bridges, Retaining Walls, Complex Foundations, Renewable Energy Projects - Large Concrete Bases and Plinths & Residential Groundworks packages.

Contractor:

•	Northamptonshire based, very well established, big order book, lots of blue chip clients.

Rewards:

•	Salary estimated around £80,000 + package depending on experience 
•	Flexibility & ownership of work
•	Project Control & Client Relationship Management
•	££ Salary to suit along with vehicle package, holidays, pension etc

Key Responsibilities & Duties - You will be responsible for:

•	Running 3-4 projects (overlapping at any time), managing through established site teams
•	Overseeing and executing concrete formwork systems, ensuring structural, safety, and budgetary compliance on sites. 
•	Managing the site teams, any subcontractors, and resources to meet schedules for client needs.
•	Responsibilities include reviewing technical drawings, managing health & safety, and optimizing materials. 
•	Reviewing and planning formwork systems (wall, slab, climbing forms)
•	Budgeting with the QS and Estimator
•	Programming
•	Working closely with the Directors, clients and stakeholders.

Contracts Manager required to join the business long ter, this Contracts Manager post may be ideal for a Project Manager or Site Manager looking to take a step up into this type of role.  Apply now for more details.



Project Manager - Formwork

Senior Quantity Surveyor / Project Quantity Surveyor
Civil Engineering
North East / Yorkshire / East Midlands
£55,000 - £75,000 + (DOE)

The Company:
An exciting opportunity for a Senior Quantity Surveyor, to join a company who value their employees and are on an undergoing organic growth. My client work on some very interesting and exciting Highways and Roads schemes. They are a Main Contractor and at points a Subcontractor who are very well established in the industry and have a very strong pipeline of work and a very solid reputation.

My client enjoys a turnover of £50 million and possess a fully stocked order book for the next 2+ Years.

About The Role:
As a Senior Quantity Surveyor, you will play an integral role in the management, direction, and successful completion of the Civil Engineering projects. Your focus is to manage build cost and maximises margin whilst enhancing value for money for our clients and achieving the required standards and quality.

About You:
•	Previous experience as a Senior Quantity Surveying / Project Quantity Surveyor.
•	Experience in Civils, Highways & Roads schemes.
•	Experience looking after multiple live schemes at one time.
•	Experience working for a Subcontractor, Main Contractor or Regional contractor.
•	NEC Form of Contract Experience
•	UK Driver’s license
•	Full right to work in UK.

What’s on Offer:
•	£55,000 - £75,000 + (DOE)
•	£6,500 Car Allowance / Company Car
•	Pension
•	25 days holiday (+ bank holidays)
•	Healthcare
•	Progression & Growth
•	Potential Hybrid Work – 3/2 Split

If you are interested in this opportunity as a Senior Quantity Surveyor, please apply with your CV using the link below or get in touch with Ben Symonds at Kenton Black, Birmingham!