Kenton Black Ltd

We are currently recruiting an experienced Freelance Site Agent to join a multi-billion-pound civils contractor on a major highways upgrade scheme. This is an excellent opportunity to work on a significant infrastructure project, delivering a varied package of heavy civils and highways works within a complex construction environment.

The successful candidate will have a strong background in highways and civil engineering, with proven experience managing site operations, coordinating subcontractors and ensuring works are delivered safely, on programme and within budget.

Key Responsibilities

- Manage day-to-day site operations across a range of highways and heavy civils work packages.
- Oversee earthworks operations, including excavation, embankments, cuttings and bulk material movements.
- Manage reinforced concrete (RC) structures, ensuring works meet design specifications and quality standards.
- Coordinate piling operations and associated ground engineering activities.
- Oversee drainage installations, including deep drainage, surface water systems and associated infrastructure.
- Manage subcontractors, monitoring progress, productivity, quality and contractual performance.
- Ensure works are delivered in accordance with programme requirements, RAMS, ITPs and project specifications.
- Maintain high standards of health, safety, environmental compliance and quality assurance.
- Liaise with the Project Manager, Site Engineers, commercial teams and client representatives to resolve technical and operational issues.
- Monitor progress against programme, identify potential delays and implement corrective measures where required.
- Ensure accurate site records, daily reports and progress updates are maintained.

Candidate Requirements

- Proven experience working as a Site Agent on major highways or heavy civils projects.
- Strong technical knowledge of earthworks, RC structures, piling and drainage.
- Demonstrable experience managing subcontractors and multiple work packages.
- Experience working for Tier 1 or major civils contractors would be advantageous.
- Strong leadership, communication and organisational skills.
- A thorough understanding of construction programmes, health and safety requirements, and quality assurance procedures.
- Relevant industry qualifications, including SMSTS and a valid CSCS card.

Site Agent

Freelance Planner 
Freelance | Ipswich | Site Based | Ongoing Contract | Outside IR35

About the Company
Our client is an established civil engineering contractor delivering infrastructure and complex construction projects across the UK. Due to ongoing project requirements in Suffolk, they are looking to strengthen their team with an experienced freelance Planner.

The Role
An opportunity has arisen for an experienced Planner to join a major project in Suffolk.
This position requires someone from a strong civil engineering background, ideally with previous operational experience within engineering before moving into planning.
You will take responsibility for the planning and programming function, working closely with project, engineering and commercial teams to develop, maintain and monitor robust construction programmes.
Experience across Civils, Infrastructure, RC works, drainage and groundworks is highly desirable, alongside a thorough understanding of how civils projects are actually delivered on site.

Key Responsibilities
Lead the planning and programming function across the project
Develop, maintain, review and update detailed construction programmes
Establish and regularly review the critical path
Produce realistic construction methodologies and sequences
Monitor progress against programme and identify potential delays at an early stage
Provide regular programme updates and supporting information to the project team
Identify programme constraints, risks and opportunities
Review construction methods, resources, plant requirements and sequencing
Carry out resource loading and levelling where required
Work closely with engineering, operational and commercial teams
Liaise with clients, consultants, subcontractors and other key stakeholders
Produce planning reports and presentations for internal and external stakeholders
Support the team with change, delay and programme implications
Ensure contract programme requirements are understood and maintained throughout project delivery

Experience & Requirements
Strong civil engineering background is essential
Previous experience working as a Planner or Senior Planner within civil engineering
Ideally an engineering background, with previous site experience such as Site Engineer, Senior Engineer or Site Agent
Strong understanding of RC works, drainage and groundworks
Excellent understanding of construction sequencing and methodology
Experience producing and managing detailed construction programmes
Good understanding of NEC contracts and programme requirements
Knowledge of delay, change, risk and opportunity from a planning perspective
Experience working within demanding Tier 1 or Tier 2 contracting environments
Relevant construction, civil engineering or technical qualification preferred

Technical Skills
Strong knowledge of construction planning and programming techniques
P6 and/or Asta Powerproject experience
Critical path analysis
Progress monitoring and programme reporting
Resource planning and levelling
Strong understanding of construction methods, plant, labour and sequencing
Ability to communicate detailed programme information clearly to both operational teams and clients

Skills & Attributes
Strong communicator with the confidence to work directly with project stakeholders
Commercially aware
Highly organised and methodical
Able to identify programme risks and challenge the project team where appropriate
Proactive and comfortable working independently
Strong attention to detail
Practical understanding of civil engineering delivery

We are happy to consider Senior and Junior profiles for this role! 

If you are interested in this opportunity, please contact Tabitha Crabtree at Kenton Black:
Tabitha.crabtree@kentonblack.com | 07359640824

Freelance Planner

Freelance Senior Quantity Surveyor 
Kent | Freelance | Outside IR35

About the Company
Our client is a well-established major contractor delivering complex civil engineering and infrastructure schemes across the UK. Due to ongoing workload within their highways division, they are looking to strengthen the commercial team on a project in the Kent area with an experienced Freelance Senior Quantity Surveyor.

The Role
An opportunity has arisen for an experienced Senior Quantity Surveyor to take commercial responsibility on a highways scheme in Kent.
Working closely with the project and commercial teams, you will manage the day-to-day commercial requirements of the scheme, including subcontractor management, cost control, forecasting, valuations, change management and reporting. The position would suit a strong Senior QS with a background in highways or major civil engineering who is comfortable operating independently within a busy project environment.

Key Responsibilities
Commercial management of highways and civil engineering works
Manage subcontractor accounts from procurement through to final account
Prepare and review valuations, variations and commercial documentation
Manage change and compensation events
Produce accurate cost forecasts and commercial reports
Monitor costs, value and project performance
Identify and manage commercial risks and opportunities
Maintain accurate commercial records
Work closely with operational and project teams
Liaise with clients, subcontractors and other project stakeholders

Experience & Requirements
Strong experience as a Senior Quantity Surveyor within civil engineering
Previous highways experience is highly desirable
Good working knowledge of NEC contracts
Strong subcontractor management experience
Experience with cost forecasting, valuations and change management
Degree qualified in Quantity Surveying or equivalent experience
Commercially astute with the ability to manage packages independently
Strong communication and negotiation skills

If you are interested, please contact Tabitha Crabtree at Kenton Black:
Tabitha.crabtree@kentonblack.com | 07359640824

Freelance Senior Quantity Surveyor 

Commercial Manager – Civil Infrastructure
Midlands
Up to £110,000 + Company Package
Permanent

The Opportunity

We are seeking an experienced Commercial Manager to join an established civil engineering and infrastructure contractor, supporting a varied portfolio of projects across the Midlands.

This role offers the opportunity to take responsibility for commercial performance across infrastructure schemes, working closely with operational teams to manage contractual risk, maximise value and ensure successful financial delivery.

Key Responsibilities
Lead the commercial management of infrastructure projects.
Manage cost control, forecasting, CVRs and financial reporting.
Oversee subcontract procurement, package management, payments and final accounts.
Administer NEC contracts, including change control and compensation events.
Identify and manage commercial risks and opportunities.
Support project teams in achieving financial and operational targets.
Build strong client and supply chain relationships.
Maintain effective commercial governance and reporting.

About You
Experience as a Commercial Manager or Senior Quantity Surveyor within civil engineering or infrastructure.
Strong knowledge of NEC contracts and commercial administration.
Experience managing project finances, subcontractors and contractual change.
Excellent communication, negotiation and leadership skills.
A proactive and commercially focused approach.

The Package
Salary up to £110,000, depending on experience.
Company benefits package.
Opportunity to work across a diverse portfolio of Midlands infrastructure projects.

Interested? Contact Ben Symonds at Kenton Black for a confidential discussion.

Commercial Manager

Site Engineer – Major Civil Engineering Projects
Salary: Up to £60,000 per annum (PAYE)
Location: UK-wide project sites

An established engineering and surveying business based in the UK is seeking an experienced Site Engineer to support the delivery of major civil engineering and infrastructure projects across the country.

This is an excellent opportunity to join a specialist business working on large-scale infrastructure schemes, offering long-term opportunities across a variety of projects.

Responsibilities & Duties:

•	Setting out and surveying works in accordance with approved drawings and specifications.
•	Ensuring accurate line, level and positioning of civil engineering works.
•	Interpreting engineering drawings and providing technical support to site teams.
•	Carrying out site surveys, measurements and as-built surveys.
•	Coordinating with site management, subcontractors and engineering teams.
•	Monitoring quality and ensuring works comply with project specifications and standards.
•	Maintaining accurate site records, QA documentation and inspection records.
•	Identifying and resolving technical issues on site.
•	Ensuring compliance with health, safety and environmental requirements.
•	Supporting the delivery of works in line with programme and quality standards.

Requirements:

•	Previous experience in a Site Engineer role within civil engineering or major infrastructure projects.
•	Competent in setting out and surveying techniques.
•	Ability to interpret technical drawings and engineering specifications.
•	Experience using surveying equipment, including GPS and total stations.
•	Strong communication, organisational and problem-solving skills.
•	A proactive approach to health, safety and quality.
•	Flexibility to work across UK-based project sites.

Salary & Package:

•	Salary up to £60,000 per annum, PAYE.
•	Opportunity to work on major civil engineering and infrastructure projects.
•	Long-term opportunities with an established engineering business.
•	Exposure to a variety of UK-wide projects and opportunities for professional development.


Site Engineer

Freelance Quantity Surveyor – Civil Engineering 
Birmingham | Freelance | Inside IR35 | 8 month initial contract with possible extension 

About the Company 
Our client is part of a major civil engineering and infrastructure delivery programme in Birmingham. Operating within a large, multidisciplinary project environment, the team is responsible for delivering complex works through close collaboration between commercial, project delivery and supply chain functions. 

The Role 
An experienced freelance Quantity Surveyor is required to support the commercial position of a major infrastructure project. Reporting to a Project Manager or Commercial Manager, you will take responsibility for the relevant commercial aspects of a defined project section, applying strong contractual, commercial, insurance and legal knowledge to support successful delivery. 

Key Responsibilities 
• Report to the Project Manager or Commercial Manager on the commercial performance of a defined section of the project. 
• Develop and apply an in-depth understanding of the contractual, commercial, insurance and legal processes relating to project contracts. 
• Build and maintain effective relationships with the client and client representatives to support smooth commercial progression of the contract. 
• Work closely with the wider project and delivery teams, providing strong commercial and technical input to develop practical solutions that meet business and customer requirements. 
• Prepare subcontract invitations to tender, evaluate tender returns and provide clear recommendations for appointment. 
• Place subcontracts accurately and within required project timescales. 
• Liaise confidently with internal commercial and project teams, subcontractors and external client representatives. 
• Provide guidance and direction to commercial staff working within the relevant project area, where required. 

Experience & Requirements 
• BSc or MSc in Quantity Surveying, or equivalent relevant experience. 
• Previous experience working as a Quantity Surveyor on a civil engineering or infrastructure project. 
• Strong knowledge and practical experience of contractual, commercial, insurance and legal processes. 
• Experience preparing subcontract tender packages, evaluating returns, making appointment recommendations and placing subcontracts. 
• Ability to work collaboratively with project delivery teams, commercial colleagues, subcontractors and client representatives. 
• Confident communication, stakeholder management and commercial decision-making skills. 

Technical Skills: 
• Strong commercial and contractual understanding within a major project environment. 
• Ability to analyse tender returns and manage subcontract procurement accurately. 
• Good awareness of risk, insurance and legal considerations relating to construction contracts. 

People Skills: 
• Effective client and stakeholder relationship management. 
• Collaborative approach when working with commercial and delivery teams. 
• Organised, accurate and able to operate effectively within project deadlines. 

If you are interested, please contact Tabitha Crabtree at Kenton Black 
Tabitha.crabtree@kentonblack.com | 07359640824 

Freelance Quantity Surveyor

Freelance Senior Quantity Surveyor – Civil Engineering
Freelance | Inside IR35 | 3-month initial contract with possible extension | North / West London projects 

About the Company
Our client is an established contractor delivering complex civil engineering and infrastructure projects. Working within a structured commercial environment, the business is looking to strengthen its project team with an experienced freelance Senior Quantity Surveyor who can provide strong commercial leadership and rigorous cost and contract management.

The Role
Reporting to the Managing Quantity Surveyor / Commercial Manager, you will take a lead role in the commercial performance of civil engineering projects. You will support project delivery teams and senior management with accurate reporting, cost control, cash management and commercial analysis, while actively managing contractual risk and identifying opportunities to improve project performance.

Key Responsibilities
• Provide accurate and timely cost and value reporting at project and business unit level, ensuring commercial processes and reporting deadlines are met.
• Produce and update monthly CVRs, cost plans, forecasts and cash flow reporting, maintaining robust cost control throughout the project lifecycle.
• Prepare upstream applications for payment and manage applications through to final account settlement.
• Manage main contract and subcontract agreements, with a particular focus on NEC and IChemE forms of contract.
• Lead subcontract procurement, negotiation and post-contract management, including measurement, certificates, accruals and account control.
• Identify, manage and mitigate commercial and contractual risks while proactively pursuing commercial opportunities.
• Work closely with project teams, clients, client representatives, subcontractors, the supply chain, finance and wider commercial teams.
• Provide practical commercial advice to operational teams, share best practice and support junior commercial staff where required.


Experience & Requirements
• Previous Senior Quantity Surveying / commercial management experience within the construction or civil engineering sector.
• Strong working knowledge of NEC and/or IChemE forms of contract, together with a sound understanding of Construction Law.
• Proven experience of subcontract procurement and commercial management, including regular meetings, measurement and control cycles, certificates and accrual calculations.
• Demonstrable experience in monthly forecasting, cost analysis, CVRs and cash management.
• Strong numeric, communication and computer literacy skills, including proficiency with Microsoft Office.
• Excellent organisation and time management, with the ability to work effectively to tight commercial deadlines.

Desirable
• RICS membership or progress towards membership of a relevant professional body.
• HND, degree or equivalent qualification in Quantity Surveying.
• CSCS card.
• Experience in estimating and/or working for a direct-delivery contractor.

What Success Looks Like
• Accurate CVRs, forecasts and commercial reporting.
• Strong project margin and cash performance against forecast.
• Effective subcontract procurement and account management.
• Commercial opportunities identified and realised, with contractual risk actively controlled.

If you are interested, please contact Tabitha Crabtree at Kenton Black
Tabitha.crabtree@kentonblack.com | 07359640824

Company Details and Job Overview:

A sizeable division of a large Group in Carlisle are looking to strengthen their finance function by recruiting a new Accountant. This service based business has grown significantly over the last few years with further growth forecasted which will bring career progression for this appointment. 

This is an ideal role for a practice trained accountant looking for their 1st or 2nd industry role, which will be an excellent spring board to gain more commercial experience whilst utilising technical accounting skills.

Key Benefits/ Rewards on Offer:

•	Competitive starting salary, depending on experience
•	Ongoing support in role to enable career progression and skills development
•	25 days annual leave + bank holidays 
•	Company pension 
•	Life assurance
•	Private healthcare and various wellbeing benefits

Your New Role as Accountant: 

Reporting to the Head of Finance, responsibilities will include:

•	Preparation of accurate annual financial statements in compliance with accounting standards
•	Coordinating and completing annual statutory audit, being the primary point of contact for auditors
•	Continual review and maintenance of systems and processes, ensuring robust controls
•	Preparation of VAT, corporate tax returns, and other statutory filings, complying with tax regulations
•	Assisting in budgeting and forecasting activities
•	Providing technical accounting advice across other departments, building strong working relationships
•	Mentor and support junior staff members within the finance department to aid skills development
•	Ongoing review and development of processes within the finance department so support continuous improvement culture

Experience & Qualifications Required to Apply:

To be considered, you will be a technically strong full or part ACA/ACCA qualified accountant solid experience gained across audit, tax and compliance. Strong communication and business partnering skills are required with the ability to build relationships across a variety of internal and external stakeholders. 

This vacancy is being handled by Rachel Cadman at Kenton Black Finance.

Kenton Black Finance operate across the UK as a market leading recruitment partner, specialising in the attraction of finance talent across both permanent and interim requirements. With a team of dedicated experts, each with longevity operating in the finance arena, we maintain a proven track record and have established partnerships with businesses both large, small and those in their infancy. As market leaders, we provide recruitment solutions from entry level finance to directorship professionals. Operating from local offices in Preston, Manchester, Leeds, Liverpool, Birmingham and Glasgow, Kenton Black Finance remain a dynamic and effective recruitment partner who represent and attract only the finest finance talent in the local area and across the UK.