M&E Site Manager

Description:

Rubicon Consulting is currently recruiting for a M&E Site Manager on a 16 month contract, located in Scotland.

Role Summary

Our client is delivering a substation construction and commissioning project on the Orkney Islands as part of a wider grid infrastructure/renewable energy connection programme. We are seeking an experienced M&E Site Manager to oversee the mechanical and electrical installation works on site, ensuring safe, compliant, and timely delivery in line with project programme and quality standards.

To manage and coordinate all M&E installation activities on a live substation site, acting as the primary point of contact for site-based M&E delivery, subcontractor management, HSQE compliance, and programme adherence, while working closely with the wider project team, client representatives, and DNO/statutory stakeholders.

Responsibilities

* Manage day-to-day site delivery of M&E installation works within a substation environment, including switchgear, transformers, cabling, protection & control systems, and associated BOP (balance of plant).

* Coordinate and supervise M&E subcontractors, ensuring works are delivered safely, to programme, and to specification.

* Ensure full compliance with CDM 2015, site-specific RAMS, and client HSQE requirements at all times.

* Chair/attend daily briefings, toolbox talks, and progress meetings; produce daily/weekly progress reports.

* Liaise with the Project Manager on programme, resourcing, and any delivery risks or delays.

* Manage site logistics given the remote island location, including materials delivery, storage, and inter-island/mainland transport coordination.

* Oversee quality control, inspection, and testing (ITPs) of M&E installations, ensuring alignment with client and industry standards (e.g. NGET/SSEN/SPEN specifications as applicable).

* Support pre-commissioning and commissioning activities alongside the engineering and commissioning teams.

* Manage site records, permits to work, isolations, and ensure robust document control.

* Support and enforce a strong safety culture, conducting site audits and inspections.

* Manage interfaces with civils, DNO, and other site contractors/stakeholders.

* Escalate and resolve site issues promptly to avoid programme impact.

Requirements

* Proven experience as a Site Manager delivering M&E works on substation projects (transmission or distribution level) — this is essential; candidates without direct substation experience will not be considered.

* Strong working knowledge of substation equipment: switchgear (AIS/GIS), transformers, protection & control panels, cabling, earthing systems.

* Experience managing multi-disciplinary subcontractors on live/energised or semi-energised sites.

* Solid understanding of CDM 2015 regulations and UK construction H&S legislation.

* Relevant CSCS card (Black/Gold Manager card or equivalent).

* SMSTS (Site Management Safety Training Scheme) – valid certificate required.

* First Aid at Work certificate.

* Experience working with DNOs/TOs (e.g. SSEN, SPEN, National Grid) and familiarity with their technical/HSQE requirements is highly desirable.

* Willingness and ability to work and, where required, reside on Orkney for the duration of the contract (accommodation/travel arrangements to be discussed).

* Full UK driving licence.

* Relevant M&E, electrical, or engineering qualification (HNC/HND or equivalent).

* Experience delivering projects in remote or island locations, with associated logistics challenges.

* NEBOSH General Certificate.

* Experience with renewable energy grid connection projects (offshore/onshore wind interconnection).

Our Company

Rubicon Consulting is a Talent management consultancy which helps you to optimise business performance and competitive advantage by choosing the right people first time