Kenton Black Ltd

Kenton Black are supporting a leading civils contractor in their search for an experienced Freelance Site Engineer to join a sub-station project based near Inverness.

Key Responsibilities

- Set out for a range of civils works including earthworks, drainage, structures, utilities, and associated infrastructure packages
- Provide technical support to site teams and subcontractors, ensuring works are delivered in accordance with design specifications
- Review drawings, plans, and documentation, raising technical queries where needed
- Maintain accurate site records, daily diaries, and as-built documentation
- Conduct quality checks, inspections, and testing in line with project standards
- Support the coordination of multiple work fronts to ensure smooth and efficient delivery
- Ensure Health, Safety & Environmental procedures are fully adhered to across all operations
- Liaise with project management, commercial teams, and client representatives as required

What You Bring

- Strong background as a Site Engineer within civil engineering or infrastructure projects
- Experience working on large-scale or complex engineering schemes
- Ability to work independently, take responsibility for engineering delivery, and manage competing priorities
- Strong communication and coordination skills, especially when dealing with subcontractors and site teams
- Proficiency with setting out equipment, CAD, and engineering software
- CSCS card essential
- SMSTS, First Aid, or Temporary Works qualifications advantageous

Why This Opportunity?

- Join a respected civils contractor delivering a significant infrastructure programme
- Competitive freelance day rate with long-term continuity potential
- Chance to play a key engineering role on a high-value, multi-disciplinary development
- Work within a professional, forward-thinking project team with excellent on-site support

Senior Quantity Surveyor

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 seeking an experienced Freelance Site Engineer to support ongoing works across major infrastructure and heavy civil engineering schemes, including projects associated with High Speed Two (HS2).

This is an excellent opportunity to join a reputable contractor delivering commercial groundworks and heavy civils packages on high-profile, technically demanding projects.

Key Responsibilities

- Setting out for commercial groundworks and heavy civils packages

- Managing and interpreting technical drawings and specifications

- Overseeing earthworks, drainage, foundations, reinforced concrete structures, and infrastructure works

- Ensuring works are delivered in line with project programmes and quality standards

- Maintaining accurate site records and as-built information

- Liaising with site management, subcontractors, and design teams

- Ensuring compliance with health, safety, and environmental standards (particularly on HS2-related works)

Requirements

- Proven experience as a Site Engineer within commercial groundworks and heavy civils

- Experience working on major infrastructure projects (HS2 experience highly desirable)

- Strong knowledge of setting out using total stations and GPS equipment

- Familiarity with QA processes, ITPs, and RAMS

- CSCS card (essential)

- SMSTS/SSSTS (desirable)

- Ability to work independently and manage multiple work fronts

Desirable Experience

- Earthworks and bulk excavation

- Deep drainage and utilities

- Reinforced concrete structures

- High-value infrastructure schemes

Experience working within HS2 compliance and reporting frameworks

Site Engineer

Kenton Black are seeking a permanent Senior Quantity Surveyor to join their client’s expanding team in Aberdeen.

The company, a respected leader in construction, is looking to appoint an experienced Senior Quantity Surveyor to oversee the commercial function of large-scale projects. This role offers the opportunity to take ownership of cost management, contracts, and financial reporting, ensuring projects are delivered within budget while maintaining the highest standards of quality and safety.

Key Responsibilities:

- Manage all costs relating to construction and civil engineering projects from initial estimates to final figures
- Prepare and review contract documents, including bills of quantities and tender submissions
- Conduct regular site visits to monitor progress and ensure project milestones are achieved
- Provide input on cost-effective solutions while maintaining compliance with safety and quality standards
- Monitor and control project budgets, ensuring financial targets are consistently met
- Handle variations, claims, and disputes effectively and efficiently
- Produce detailed progress reports, forecasts, and commercial updates for stakeholders
- Mentor and support junior quantity surveyors, fostering professional development within the team

What You Bring:

- Minimum of 5 years’ experience working as a surveyor on construction and/or civil engineering projects
- Strong knowledge of cost management, contracts, and dispute resolution within the sector
- Ideally, a degree in construction, civil engineering, or a related discipline
- Proven track record of delivering projects within budget and to high standards
- Excellent analytical, organisational, and communication skills
- Ability to work independently while contributing to collaborative project teams
- Flexibility to operate within a hybrid working model and travel to sites as required

Why This Role?

With a competitive salary (based on experience), clear opportunities for progression towards management/director level, hybrid working arrangements, company pension, annual bonus scheme, car allowance and fuel support, and generous holiday entitlement, this role offers both reward and long-term career development with one of the fastest growing main contractors in the North-East of Scotland.

Laboratory team leader

This is a permanent opportunity. Kenton Black Scientific is a recruitment partner to one of the leading food testing laboratories based in Cambridgeshire. In this role, you will be managing a team of laboratory technicians. 

Responsibilities:

•	Responsible for running day-to-day activities within the food chemistry testing laboratory.
•	Provide technical and quality training for all the new starters 
•	Ensure that an adequate number of staff are present at all times in the laboratory
•	Analysing protein, moisture, and fat content present in food samples using gravimetric techniques 
•	Ensure all team members are performing duties/tests according to ISO17025 guidelines 
•	

Qualifications:

•	Degree in science or equivalent 
•	Proven operational experience and team management within a food/water/environmental  testing laboratory 
•	Proven project management skills and experience, lean production principles
Experience in using analytical techniques such as GC, GC-MS

Laboratory team leader

Kenton Black are recruiting for a freelance Site Engineer position in the North of Scotland.

A well-established infrastructure contractor operating across major energy and utilities projects is seeking an experienced Site Engineer to support a 12-month new build and extension to an existing substation. Working on a large-scale infrastructure project, this role offers long-term continuity, accommodation and lunches provided, and strong earning potential for an engineer experienced in substation, civils, or energy-sector works.

This opportunity is ideal for a technically strong, organised, and proactive professional looking for a stable freelance assignment within a high-performing project team.

Key Responsibilities:

- Set out works associated with the new-build substation and extension phases
- Carry out surveying, as-built drawings, and maintain accurate engineering documentation
- Coordinate daily activities with site management, subcontractors, and operational teams
- Ensure all works are completed in line with design drawings, technical specifications, and client standards
- Conduct quality checks, raise technical queries, and support onsite problem-solving
- Contribute to daily briefings, progress reporting, and engineering compliance
- Maintain a strong focus on safety, environmental standards, and procedural adherence
- Support weekend works on a rotational basis (optional every second weekend)

What You Bring:

- Proven experience as a Site Engineer on infrastructure, civils, utilities, or substation projects
- Strong setting out experience using GPS, robotic total station, and levelling equipment
- Ability to read and interpret drawings, specifications, and engineering data
- Excellent communication skills with the ability to work collaboratively with site teams
- A proactive, disciplined approach to planning, accuracy, and problem-solving
- Valid CSCS card and full UK driving licence

Why This Role?
This is a fantastic opportunity to join a respected infrastructure contractor delivering a high-profile energy project in the North of Scotland. With accommodation and lunches provided, consistent working hours (7am–6pm, Monday to Friday), and optional weekend work every second weekend, this role offers both stability and excellent earning potential.

The position offers £350–£400 per day (CIS or LTD) for the full 12-month duration, making it an attractive option for an engineer seeking long-term freelance continuity on a major infrastructure development.

If you're an experienced Site Engineer ready to take on a key role within a significant energy project, we’d love to hear from you.


Kenton Black are recruiting for a permanent full-time Trainee Estimator position in Glasgow. 

The client is a well established and highly respected fit-out and refurbishment contractor. Known for delivering high-quality workspace, interior, and specialist refurbishment projects across Scotland, the company offers an excellent environment for early-career professionals to learn, grow, and build a long-term career in estimating.

This role is ideal for someone looking to develop their technical, commercial, and analytical skills while gaining hands-on experience across a diverse portfolio of projects. With structured support, ongoing development, and exposure to all aspects of the estimating process, this is a strong career opportunity with genuine prospects for progression.

Key Responsibilities:

- Assist in the preparation of cost estimates, tender submissions, and pricing documents
- Support the take-off and measurement of materials from drawings and specifications
- Help obtain supplier and subcontractor quotations and prepare comparisons
- Maintain accurate commercial records, cost libraries, and project documentation
- Work closely with project managers, designers, and operational teams to understand project requirements
- Contribute to tender reviews, budgeting exercises, and commercial forecasting
- Ensure all estimating activity aligns with company procedures, quality standards, and client expectations

What You Bring:

- A relevant qualification in construction, estimating, quantity surveying.
- Strong numerical ability and an analytical, detail-focused approach
- A proactive attitude with a clear desire to learn and progress within a commercial team
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills
- Competence in IT systems including Microsoft Office (especially Excel)
- Full UK driving licence (preferred but not essential)

Why This Role?

This is an excellent opportunity to join a well-established contractor with a strong reputation, a supportive internal culture, and a commitment to developing talent from within. You’ll gain exposure to a broad range of fit-out and refurbishment projects across Scotland, working closely with an experienced estimating team who will support your career progression every step of the way.

If you’re motivated, eager to build your expertise, and ready to take your next step in the construction industry, we’d love to hear from you.

Trainee Estimator

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 

Site 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 Site Manager / Project 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: Site Manager

•	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.

Site Manager / Project Manager / Contracts Manager required to join the business long term, this role 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.

