Job Summary
A Contract Manager in the Electrical, HVAC, and Plumbing (MEP - Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) sector is responsible for overseeing the entire lifecycle of construction or maintenance contracts.
They ensure that MEP systems are installed, maintained, and commissioned in compliance with technical specifications, safety regulations, and budgetary constraints.
This role acts as the bridge between technical site teams, commercial departments, and clients.
Core Responsibilities
Contractual Administration:Draft, review, and negotiate subcontracts, supply agreements, and variations. Ensure all contracts are accurate, relevant, and updated.
MEP Project Oversight:Ensure projects are delivered in accordance with technical specifications, design drawings, and quality standards (e.g., HVAC maintenance, electrical installation).
Financial Control:Manage project P&L, track costs, prepare monthly applications for payment, and manage variations and final accounts to ensure profitability.
Compliance & Safety:Ensure site activities comply with health and safety legislation (e.g., CDM regulations in the UK) and RAMS (Risk Assessments and Method Statements).
Subcontractor & Supplier Management:Procurement of subcontractors and suppliers, reviewing accounts, and ensuring performance meets company standards.
Client Relationship Management:Act as the primary point of contact for clients and consultants to provide progress updates and address concerns.
Commissioning & Handover:Manage commissioning, testing, and handover documentation, including O&M (Operations & Maintenance) manuals and as-built drawings.
Reporting:Generate regular reports on contract performance, including KPI updates and budgetary status.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
Project margin/profitability.
Adherence to project schedule/milestones.
Contract compliance (QA/QC).
Zero lost-time accidents/safety incidents.
Client satisfaction rating.
Required Skills and Qualifications
Technical Knowledge:Deep understanding of MEP systems, including HVAC, electrical distribution, and plumbing/fire protection systems.
Experience:Usually 3-5+ years in a contract management, quantity surveying, or project management role within construction or facilities management.
Commercial Acumen:Ability to analyze contract documents, manage cash flow, and handle variations.
Communication:Excellent negotiation, interpersonal, and written skills to interact with diverse stakeholders.
IT Literacy:Proficiency in MS Office (especially Excel), CAFM (Computer-Aided Facility Management) software, and Project Management tools.
Qualifications:Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Construction Management is often required. Professional certification (e.g., RICS, CIPS, PMP)
Typical Work Activities:
Site Inspections:Conducting regular site visits to monitor installation quality and safety compliance.
Meetings:Attending project meetings, site coordination meetings, and client reviews.
Variation Management:Identifying and documenting changes to the scope of work and securing approval.
Scheduling:Working with planners to develop and monitor project programmes.