At Careys, we don’t just deliver construction projects. We self-deliver complex civil engineering works that shape infrastructure across the UK. From major civils and concrete structures to technically demanding packages, we pride ourselves on doing things properly, safely, and collaboratively.
We are looking for an experienced Construction Manager / Works Manager to lead site operations across major civil engineering projects, ensuring works are delivered safely, efficiently, on programme, and to the highest possible standards.
This is a leadership role for someone who thrives in a fast-paced operational environment, can manage teams effectively, and understands how to drive performance without compromising safety or quality.
The Role
Reporting into the Regional Operations Manager / Construction Director / Contracts Manager, you will take ownership of day-to-day site operations from mobilisation through to handover.
You’ll be responsible for coordinating labour, plant, subcontractors, logistics, temporary works, and programme delivery while maintaining strong relationships with clients, consultants, and internal teams.
This role would suit someone with a strong civils background who can lead from the front, communicate clearly, and keep projects moving in challenging operational environments.
Project Delivery
- Lead site operations to ensure works are delivered safely, on time, and to specification
- Manage supervisors, foremen, operatives, subcontractors, and supply chain partners
- Oversee construction sequencing, logistics, and temporary works activities
- Deliver daily briefings, toolbox talks, and operational planning meetings
- Support short-term programme planning and monitor progress against key milestones
Health, Safety & Environment
- Champion SHED principles and maintain the highest standards of safety on site
- Ensure compliance with RAMS, permits, lifting plans, CDM regulations, and client procedures
- Conduct site inspections and ensure safe systems of work are consistently followed
- Support onboarding, inductions, and coaching of new starters
- Promote a proactive safety culture focused on engagement and continuous improvement
Quality & Technical
- Ensure works are completed to specification and in line with QA/QC procedures
- Support design reviews and technical coordination activities
- Oversee temporary works in accordance with Carey procedures and engineering requirements
- Monitor workmanship standards and close out non-conformances effectively
Commercial & Operational Performance
- Monitor labour, plant, and production outputs
- Support project budgeting and cost control activities
- Identify delays, variations, and operational risks early
- Produce accurate labour allocation sheets and progress reporting
- Work closely with commercial and operational teams to drive project performance
Leadership & Team Management
- Lead and motivate operational teams to achieve high performance standards
- Set clear expectations and maintain accountability across site teams
- Build collaborative working relationships with clients, stakeholders, and internal departments
- Support the development and progression of operatives and supervisors
What We’re Looking For
Essential
- Strong experience within civil engineering, groundworks, RC frame, infrastructure, or related sectors
- Proven experience in a Construction Manager, Works Manager, General Foreman, or senior operational leadership role
- Experience managing multidisciplinary site teams on complex projects
- Strong understanding of temporary works, programme delivery, logistics, and construction sequencing
- Temporary Works Coordinator experience or certification
- Strong communication and leadership skills
Desirable
- NEBOSH Construction Certificate
- Lean Construction or Continuous Improvement training
- Mental Health First Aid / Wellbeing Champion training
- BIM or digital construction awareness
As part of our team, you’ll also enjoy a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to support your wellbeing, lifestyle and long‑term future, including:
- 26 days’ holiday plus bank holidays, with the flexibility to buy or sell leave
- Private healthcare and a Health Care Cash Plan
- Car allowance
- Company pension
- Life assurance
- Volunteering days through the Careys Foundation or causes important to you
- Cycle to Work scheme
- Car leasing scheme
- Discounted gym membership
- A range of retail discounts and cashback plans
Our story starts in 1969 with three brothers and a van.
John, Tom and Pat Carey moved to London from Ireland and started a groundworks contracting company in London called PJ Carey Plant Hire (Oval) Ltd.
Their aspirations at the time were reflective of the values of the Carey Group today – to care about everything they did, to act with humility in all interactions, to be passionate about their work and be authentic at all times.
The Carey Group remains a family-owned construction business, operating across the UK and Ireland. Their goal at the time was to grow to around 50 operatives and provide quality, safe work so that they and their employees could provide for their families and get safe home every day. Through hard work and sticking to their values and their word, this was certainly achieved….and some.
Throughout the years, we have remained committed to delivering on our promises, respecting our clients, offering innovative solutions and producing the highest-quality work in safe environments. These are the core principles set by our Founders, the ones we have never wavered from and they help us to fulfil our ultimate vision to be the most trusted and socially responsible construction company, that people are proud to work with.
Our strong approach is underpinned by robust financial management, continuous investment in our people, specialist equipment and strategic assets and our long-standing culture of teamwork – we want to create the very best environments for our people.
We care about our people and our partners and how we work with them, ensuring we do our best by them. Ultimately, we care about our impact on the world around us and the communities that we proudly help to shape.
